Easy Caramel Apples are one of the ultimate fall treats! This is a foolproof recipe that's nearly impossible to mess up and it makes perfectly tempting and tasty caramel apples that are great for holidays, parties and gifting.

Easy Caramel Apples Recipe

The easiest caramel apple recipe! Made with just three ingredients, plus toppings if you want to make them extra special. One of the ultimate fall treats! Perfect for gifting and parties. Makes 7 caramel apples (about 3 servings per apple).

Ingredients

• 7 small granny smith apples (about 2 1/4 lbs)
• 15 oz. caramels, such as Werther's Chewy*
• 3 Tbsp heavy cream
• Various toppings, optional

Instructions

Rinse and thoroughly dry apples with a paper towel. Insert a caramel apple stick. Having toppings ready if you'll be adding some to apples.

Line a 13 by 9-inch baking sheet or baking dish with a sheet of parchment paper, spray parchment paper with non-stick cooking spray, set in the fridge.

Place caramels and heavy cream in a microwave safe bowl (about 5 cup size bowl)

Heat in microwave in 30 second increments, stirring well between intervals, until melted and smooth. This will take about 2 - 3 minutes. If caramel is extra runny let it cool just briefly so it doesn't run right off the apples.

Dip apples one at a time into caramel on an angle so it covers nearly to the top center. Rotate and turn to coat the apple. Lift the apple and let excess run off, then run the bottom of the apple along the inside edge of the bowl to remove excess caramel. Lift the apple and turn the apple upside down to let caramel run up the apple a little then immediately roll in toppings (or sprinkle with toppings) before caramel sets.

Turn apples upright and place on a prepared baking sheet in the fridge, repeat the process with remaining apples. As needed reheat caramel in the microwave in 15 second increments for a runny, dip-able consistency.

Allow caramel to set completely, about 30 minutes in the fridge (you can eat them before this but if you want caramel to firm back up the wait the 30 minutes). Cut apples into slices just when ready to enjoy so they don't brown.

Source: Image and recipe from cookingclassy.com

Though some folks may high-tail it inside when winter hits, snowmobilers hit the high trails instead! But is your vehicle prepared for the weather? As excited as you might be for snow, you don't want to be left out in the cold. Here are some handy tips for winterizing snowmobiles to help ensure it's safe and ready to ride!

1. Inspection:

The first step is an overall inspection of the snowmobile's parts. This would include looking for cracks, excessive wear and tear, and anything that might have come loose. Anything used to block air intake or exhaust pipes should be unplugged. And it's a good idea to make sure the vehicle hasn't collected any unexpected stowaways while in storage, such as mice!

2. Checking levels:

Fluids such as gas, brake fluid and coolant should all be checked and topped off if low. If there is remaining gas in the tank from the previous season, it's suggested that the tank be drained and filled up with fresh gas.

3. Evaluating the engine:

Checking that carburetors are clean is important as dirty ones are a main cause of engine failure. Also, snowmobilers should make sure that the throttle, oil cables, fan and water pump belt are in good condition and without cracks.

4. Examining the skis:

Since skis are one of the most important pieces of the snowmobile, they should be checked not only for any holes, cuts or gouges, but to ensure that the runners are aligned straight!

5. Cleaning it up:

Dirt, salt, leaves and other debris are all commonly found on snowmobiles coming out of storage. Most of it can probably be cleaned off with water and mild cleansers. However, where a deeper cleaning may be needed or desired, it can be done at a local shop or car wash.

All these steps are equally important when preparing the snowmobile for storage at the end of the season. But in the meantime, get out and enjoy the snow while you can!

Source: foremost.com

Fall in Massachusetts offers so many activities, including major events like the Topsfield Fair and the Big E, along with seasonal favorites like apple picking, visiting pumpkin patches, and hiking to see foliage at places such as Appleton Farms or the Berkshires. You can also attend local events like King Richard's Faire or Wachusett Mountain's AppleFest.

Festivals & Fairs

The Big E: The largest event on the East Coast, this fair in Springfield runs from September 12-28, 2025, offering food, entertainment, and attractions.

Topsfield Fair: This fair takes place from October 3-13, 2025.

King Richard's Faire: Enjoy a Renaissance festival experience in Carver on weekends from August 30 to October 19, 2025.

AppleFest at Wachusett Mountain: This popular event happens on Saturdays and Sundays in October.

Outdoor & Nature

Apple Picking: Visit local farms and orchards to pick your own apples.

Fall Foliage: Hike or take a scenic drive to see the colorful fall foliage in areas like the Berkshires or along the Charles River Esplanade.

Pumpkin Patches: Find local farms offering pumpkin patches.

Hayrides: Many farms and orchards also offer hayrides.

Hikes: Explore trails at places like Monument Mountain or Rocky Woods.

Cultural & Historic

Salem Haunted Happenings: A major event in the historic city of Salem.

Boston Public Garden: Enjoy a stroll through the park and visit nearby Beacon Hill.

Walden Pond: Have a picnic or a quiet stroll around Walden Pond.

Boston Harbor: Consider a fall foliage luncheon cruise.

For Families

Smolak Farms: Enjoy weekly themes, live entertainment, and carnival games on weekends.

Southwick's Zoo: Check out the Harvest Fest on September 27-28, 2025.

Corn Mazes: Get lost in one of the many corn mazes available throughout the state.

No matter what you choose to do, fall is always fun in Massachusetts!

Every U.S. state with the exception of New Hampshire requires its drivers to purchase liability insurance to drive legally. However, collision and comprehensive are optional, even though nearly four out of five drivers choose to purchase these coverages.

Collision coverage

Collision pays for damage to your car resulting from a collision with an object (e.g., a telephone pole, a guard rail, a mailbox), or as a result of flipping over. The average cost is about $290 per year. Collision coverage reimburses you for the costs of repairing your car, minus the deductible.

Collision coverage also covers damage caused by potholes.

Comprehensive coverage

Comprehensive covers damage to your car caused by disasters “other than collisions,” and costs significantly less than collision coverage. With the average cost of comprehensive totaling a little over $134 per year, the coverage is cost-effective considering it covers damages to the vehicle caused by the following:

• Contact with animals
• Natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, tornadoes and volcanic eruptions
• Fire
• Riots and vandalism
• Theft of the entire car, or parts of the car such as an airbag
• Fallen objects such as trees, branches, ice or projectiles
• Broken windshield
• Drivers who finance the purchase of their car may be required to purchase both collision and comprehensive coverage.

To reduce your auto insurance expenditures, I.I.I. recommends taking a higher deductible.

If you are driving an older car, do the math to see if purchasing either collision or comprehensive coverage makes economic sense.

For more information, contact Lallis & Higgins Insurance.

Source: iii.org

It's a fact that if you take your vehicle in for regular car maintenance, it can help to prevent expensive repairs and maintain a reliable vehicle.

Below are 5 car maintenance tips to help keep your vehicle in excellent running condition this fall.

1. Stick to the Oil Change Intervals

A regular oil change at the factory-recommended intervals is the best maintenance task you can do for your vehicle. The oil keeps your car’s engine well lubricated, reduces friction, and keeps your engine clean and protected. Changing the oil regularly also prolongs the life of your engine. Check your owner’s manual for the factory-recommended oil change intervals for your specific make and model or ask your authorized service technician for assistance.

2. Check the Fluids Regularly

Check the fluids in your vehicle at least once a month and top them off to the correct levels if necessary. When you check the fluids, also check the color and consistency. If you notice that the oil has lost its amber color and looks brownish or black, it might need replacing.

3. Inspect the Battery

A good quality battery lasts between three and six years, depending on temperature, driving habits, and battery maintenance. Consider having your battery inspected when you have your fluids checked to avoid any possible issues with your battery later on down the road.

4. Keep Your Tires Inflated to the Proper PSI

Walk around your car and inspect each tire for damage such as bulges and cracks that could cause flat tires and blowouts. Check the pressure levels with a tire pressure gauge and make sure the tires are not over or underinflated, which will cause damage. You will find the tire pressure levels inside your driver’s side door and in your owner’s manual.

5. Routinely Rotate the Tires

A tire rotation involves swapping the tires to different positions to promote even wear, making them last longer and saving you money in the long run. Regular tire rotations will also improve handling, especially when cornering and braking.

Be sure to consult with your dealerships service department before starting any maintenance work in case of warranty, buying proper parts, etc.

Source: penskeautomotive.com

The basic personal auto insurance mandated by most U.S. states provides some financial protection if you or another driver using your car causes an accident that damages someone else’s car or property, injures someone or both.

But to make the best decisions about purchasing other types of auto insurance coverage you might need, you’ll want to understand what’s covered, what’s not covered and what’s optional. In addition to understanding types of coverage, you’ll also want to consider coverage amounts.

Why? Because state-required minimums may not cover the costs of a serious accident, so it’s worth considering purchasing higher levels of coverage.

Here’s a rundown of the types of coverage available—some are required; others are optional; all are priced individually (a la carte) to let you customize coverage amounts to suit your exact needs and budget.

Mandatory coverage

• Nearly every state requires car owners to carry the following auto liability coverage:
• Bodily Injury Liability — This covers costs associated with injuries and death that you or another driver causes while driving your car.
• Property Damage Liability — This coverage will reimburse others for damage that you or another driver operating your car causes to another vehicle or other property, such as a fence, building or utility pole.

Frequently required coverage

Many states require that you carry the following coverage:

• Medical Payments or Personal Injury Protection (PIP) — Provides reimbursement for medical expenses for injuries to you or your passengers. It will also cover lost wages and other related expenses.
• Uninsured Motorist Coverage — Reimburses you when an accident is caused by an uninsured motorist—or in the case of a hit-and-run. You can also purchase under insured motorist coverage, which will cover costs when another driver lacks adequate coverage to pay the costs of a serious accident.

Even if these types of coverage are optional in your state, consider adding them to your policy for greater financial protection.

Optional coverage

While basic, legally mandated auto insurance covers the cost of damages to other vehicles that you cause while driving, it does not cover damage to your own car. To cover this, you need to purchase the following optional auto insurance coverages:

• Collision — This optional coverage reimburses you for damage to your car that occurs as a result of a collision with another vehicle or other object—e.g., a tree or guardrail—when you’re at fault. While collision coverage will not reimburse you for mechanical failure or normal wear-and-tear on your car, it will cover damage from potholes or from rolling your car.
• Comprehensive — This provides coverage against theft and damage caused by an incident other than a collision, such as fire, flood, vandalism, hail, falling rocks or trees and other hazards—even getting hit by an asteroid!
• Glass Coverage — Windshield damage is common, and some auto policies include no-deductible glass coverage, which also includes side windows, rear windows and glass sunroofs. Or you can buy supplemental glass coverage.

Mind the gap… insurance

If you lease or finance your vehicle, auto dealers or lenders will likely require you to purchase collision and comprehensive. But keep in mind that collision and comprehensive only cover the market value of your car, not what you paid for it—and new cars depreciate quickly. If your car is totaled or stolen, there may be a “gap” between what you owe on the vehicle and your insurance coverage. To cover this, you may want to look into purchasing gap insurance to pay the difference. (Note: For leased vehicles, gap coverage is usually rolled into your lease payments.)

Who is covered—and when?

Your auto policy will cover you and other family members on your policy, whether driving your insured car or someone else’s car with permission. Your policy also provides coverage if someone not on your policy is driving your car with your consent.

Your personal auto policy only covers personal driving, whether you’re commuting to work, running errands or taking a trip. Your personal auto policy, however, will not provide coverage if you use your car for commercial purposes—for instance, if you deliver pizzas or operate a delivery service. Note, too, that personal auto insurance will generally not provide coverage if you use your car to provide transportation to others through a ride-sharing service such as Uber or Lyft. Some auto insurers, however, are now offering supplemental insurance products (at additional cost) that extend coverage for vehicle owners providing ride-sharing services.

For more information, contact Lallis & Higgins Insurance.

Source: iii.org

Weatherproofing your home also involves making it more energy-efficient whenever possible. Energy-efficient homes come with a number of benefits, such as lower utility bills, less strain on various home systems, and a better ROI when it comes time to sell. Here are a few things you can do to make your home more energy efficient:‍

Upgrade your HVAC system: HVAC systems can play a vital role in weatherproofing your home. Energy-efficient systems use advanced technology, like variable-speed motors and geothermal heat pumps, to adapt to changing weather and optimize energy consumption.‍

Install a smart thermostat: Another way to mitigate energy loss is to install a smart thermostat in your home. Upgrading your thermostat to one that can be programmed allows you to only use heat or cool air when needed. The regulated temperature control can help you maintain a comfortable home environment throughout the year. ‍

Replace older appliances: When you stop to think about it, your home runs on machines. Refrigerators, stoves, dishwashers, washers, dryers, and even microwaves use considerable energy daily. By replacing older appliances with energy-efficient alternatives, you can conserve more energy and reduce unnecessary generated heat.

Source: point.com

Standard homeowners insurance policies cover the building and personal property damage, as well as liability, but it only covers these things when the dwelling is actively occupied by the property owner. Once tenants move in, a homeowners insurance policy will no longer cover any property damage that occurs while tenants are occupying the rental.

Separate from homeowners insurance, landlord insurance is intended specifically for property owners who plan on renting out their property for an extended period of time. Landlord insurance policies cover everything a general homeowners insurance policy covers, plus many other perils property owners could experience in their time as a landlord. With a landlord insurance policy, the rental (and bank account) will be taken care of if anything unfortunate were to happen.

What does landlord insurance cover and not cover?

Landlord insurance coverage all depends on the type of policy you choose, but a good, comprehensive policy will include three key protections:

• Property damage – Covers any damage to the property caused by a natural disaster, vandalism, theft, irresponsible tenants, or anything else that could damage the physical structure of the property.
• Loss of rental income/rental income protection – Should something occur that causes your property to be uninhabitable, such as a natural disaster or severe mold, this coverage provides temporary rental income reimbursement that acts as a replacement for the rent a landlord would be receiving as usual if a tenant was occupying their property.
• Liability – Covers any medical or legal fees, such as lawsuits, bodily injury claims and settlement costs that could ensue if a tenant or a visitor were to get injured on the property.

For many policies, additional coverage or add ons are available, all of which will serve to protect your investment and yourself as a landlord. Some additional coverage options include:

• Flood insurance which covers general water or flood damage.
• Guaranteed income insurance covers partial or full rent payments if the tenant is unable to pay for one month – something many landlords experienced during the height of the pandemic.
• Property coverage covers your furnishings if you are renting out a furnished rental unit.

Keep in mind that the amount and type of additional coverage varies from insurance provider to insurance provider, so you will need to determine which provider is best for your needs.

Now that you know what landlord insurance covers, let’s briefly review what it does not cover. First and foremost, landlord insurance excludes protection for a tenant’s personal belongings. Tenants will need to purchase a renter’s insurance policy for this, which surprisingly also benefits landlords! Additionally, landlord insurance doesn’t cover normal wear and tear, which is any damage that occurs as a natural result of the property being inhabited. This one might be obvious, but it doesn’t hurt to mention – landlord insurance does not cover properties in which the owner lives due to the fact that landlord insurance is specifically designed to cover “non-owner-occupied” properties.

What are the different types of landlord insurance?

As with any insurance, the coverage you receive will depend on the type of insurance policy you select. The different types of landlord insurance are labeled as “dwelling policies,” and they fall into three categories. You’ll discover that as the number associated with the policy increases, the types of coverage expand.

1. Dwelling Policy 1 (DP-1): This is, of course, the most basic policy that covers common occurrences like fire, vandalism, windstorm, and hail. Because the coverage is so limited, this is also the cheapest option. It’s important to note that with this policy, claims that are covered will only be reimbursed for the actual cash value (ACV), which is the depreciated rebuild value of the dwelling.
2. Dwelling Policy 2 (DP-2): This policy covers everything included in DP-1, plus burglary damage, freezing of pipes, falling objects, and loss of income. Essentially, it covers more substantial and less likely damage and incidences. But the biggest difference between DP-1 and DP-2 is that the latter policy pays out the replacement cost value (RCV), meaning the policy will pay to restore the dwelling to its original condition.
3. Dwelling Policy 3 (DP-3): This is the most common and comprehensive type of policy that offers the broadest form of protection. While DP-1 and DP-2 only cover the specific incidents listed in the policy, DP-3 is an “all-risk” policy that covers any perils a landlord may run into.

The Benefits of Landlord Insurance

The benefit of landlord insurance boils down to one thing – fewer out-of-pocket costs for landlords. But, let’s break down the benefits so you can see exactly why you need landlord insurance:

1. Liability protection protects landlords from legal or medical fees in the case that a tenant or their guest is injured on the landlord’s property. Tenants can sue for a pay-out or for coverage of medical expenses related to everything from physical injury and death to financial difficulty and emotional harm. With liability coverage, any possible expenses related to legal or medical fees will be covered, protecting you from out-of-pocket costs.
2. Rental income protection may be the top benefit provided by landlord insurance. In the case that something happens to your property that makes it uninhabitable, such as fire, mold, or tornado damage, this element of protection will cover the financial loss that you would endure during the time you are unable to rent out the dwelling. Usually, the coverage will only extend up to a defined period of time such as 12 months, but that’s 12 months you could have not been paid rent. When purchasing a policy, always check to make sure your policy includes rental income protection if you desire it.
3. Certain tenant damage coverage can cover two types of damage caused by the tenant: accidental and malicious or intentional damage. In both cases of coverage, the insurance provider will help cover the costs of repair or replacement for the damaged item(s). Once again, when purchasing a policy, always check to make sure your chosen policy covers both types of certain tenant damage.

For more information, contact Lallis & Higgins Insurance.

Source: turbotenant.com

According to the CDC, high temperatures kill hundreds of people in the U.S. each year, and forecasters are predicting a hot month in August this year. Prepare yourself for what's to come and stay protected from the heat to avoid heatstroke or hyperthermia (yes, this is a real thing!). Follow our tips below to beat the heat this summer.

Do outdoor chores early in the morning.

If you must do things like cut the grass or other outdoor work, start early in the morning when temperatures are low. We recommended getting up as soon as it's bright enough for you to see what you're doing. Depending on where you live, this can be as early as 5:00 or 6:00 a.m.

Dress appropriately.

Sometimes you won't be able to make a fashion statement with summer outfits, and that's okay! The focus is to keep you cool during the summer heat, so the lighter the clothes are the better. If you have a pair of old jeans you've been thinking about tossing, consider cutting them into shorts instead!

Go swimming.

This wouldn't be a complete list if we didn't include this one. Swimming has been a favorite summer activity for many people for centuries, and for good reason. Wanna stay cool? Take a dip in the pool! If you don't have a private pool accessible to you, check public pools available in your area, or head to a beach or lake if you live near one.

Limit stove and oven use.

If you need to use your oven or stove on a hot day, try to be as quick and efficient as possible. We recommend prepping your food before you turn the stove on so you can start cooking as soon as it's fully heated up.

Start your car early before getting in.

We know how long it can take for cars to cool off during extreme heat. If you have the ability to auto-start your car so that the AC is running before you get in, we recommend doing so. If you do this, always make sure your doors are locked.

Stay in air-conditioned buildings.

Let's face it, there's nothing like relaxing in some air conditioning (AC) on a hot summer day. If you don't have AC in your home, consider spending time in public indoor places such as malls, museums or restaurants where you can enjoy their services and cool off at the same time.

Stay hydrated.

This is one of the most important tips on this list. If you're going to be in the heat for long periods at a time, you need to be hydrated. Some studies recommend drinking eight cups of water a day, but it may be best to do some research on what best for your height and weight. Did you know cold water can lower your body temperature? If you're not staying hydrated, staying cool in the heat may be difficult and you could find yourself in a dangerous situation.

Take cool showers.

If the heat has already gotten to you and you need a fast way to cool down, a cool shower can help. Get the water as cool as you can stand it and hop in. This will keep your body temperature down and feel very refreshing.

Use fans around the house.

If you don't have air conditioning, or if the air conditioning isn't working fast enough, fans are a great alternative. There are many different types of fans to choose from at different price points.

Source: foremost.com

Ingredients for S'mores

12 sheets unbroken graham cracker
1 bag marshmallows, medium or large
6 1.55oz Hershey’s chocolate bars (milk, semi-sweet, or dark)

Ingredients for Toppings (optional)

1 tsp powdered sugar (per s’more)
1 tsp caramel sauce (per s’more)
Items You'll Need
Camping skewers
Plenty of napkins!

Over the Campfire:

Get your campfire fired up. Regular old fresh flames are how you wind up with burnt marshmallows; once those crackling embers have aged enough to glow bright red, conditions should be set for prime s’mores.

The bedrock of any great s’more is one full sheet of crunchy graham cracker. Snap those crackers in half lengthwise, then set them aside on a sheet of aluminum foil or a plate near the fire. Break your chocolate bar in half too; if you’re using Hershey’s chocolate, a full half of the bar will serve you well. Place one half-bar onto one graham cracker chunk per s’more.

Time to roast marshmallows! Using a handy s’mores-ready skewer rod, dangle your sugary puff just above or within the flames. Here’s your goal: toasting rather than catching fire. Rotate the marshmallow to brown it evenly on all sides.

Choose one topped graham cracker to be your bottom piece, and grace it with your roasted marshmallow. Dollop in caramel sauce, if desired. Clamshell it with the second topped cracker, extract your skewer, dust with powdered sugar, and enjoy! (The shelf life is decent, but these really are best served hot.)

Source: bbqguys.com