Essential Gear for Active Families Who Love Sports, Cooking & Reading

Posted on December 10, 2025 by Michael D Thomas

Finally, Something That Keeps Up With Your Family

Between soccer practice, dance recitals, homework help, and somehow getting dinner on the table, your days don’t have spare minutes—they have spare seconds.

You need solutions that work as hard as you do. No complicated setup. No added stress. Just simple, reliable support that fits into the beautiful chaos of raising active kids.

Because you’re not just managing schedules—you’re raising future champions, artists, and leaders. And you deserve tools that make that journey a little bit easier.

Soccer Essentials for Young Athletes

Soccer Cleats

adidas Kids’ Goletto VII Firm Ground Soccer Shoe Buy on Amazon Lightweight and durable cleats designed for young players. The synthetic upper provides excellent ball control, while the firm ground outsole delivers reliable traction on natural grass. Parents love that these run true to size and hold up through an entire season of practices and games.

DREAM PAIRS Youth Soccer Cleats Buy on Amazon An affordable option that doesn’t sacrifice quality. These cleats offer excellent grip and support for developing players, with a design that works well for both boys and girls.

Shin Guards & Protection

G-Form adult Shin Guards Buy on Amazon Flexible protection that hardens on impact. These stay in place during aggressive play and are slim enough to fit comfortably under socks without the bulk of traditional guards.

Franklin Sports Kids Soccer Shin Guards Buy on Amazon Perfect for beginners, these guards come with adjustable straps for a secure fit. The foam padding absorbs shock while staying lightweight enough that kids forget they’re wearing them.

Training Equipment

Soccer/Volleyball/Rugby Trainer, Buy on Amazon Football Kick Throw Solo Practice Training Aid This adjustable waist belt system lets kids practice ball control and footwork in the backyard without chasing down every kick. Great for building confidence between team practices.

Agility Ladder and Training Cones Set Buy on Amazon Help your athlete develop speed and footwork with this complete training set. The ladder improves coordination while cones are perfect for dribbling drills. Compact and portable for backyard sessions or park practice.

Game Day Gear

Under Armour Undeniable 5.0 Duffle Bag Buy on Amazon Everything in one place. This spacious duffle fits cleats, uniforms, shin guards, water bottles, and snacks with room to spare. The water-resistant bottom protects against wet fields and muddy locker room floors.

Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle (24 oz) Buy on Amazon Keep your kids hydrated through every practice and game. This spill-proof bottle keeps drinks cold for 24 hours and features a dual-opening lid—perfect for sipping during breaks or chugging after an intense scrimmage.

For Parents Who Love to Cook

Photo by August de Richelieu on Pexels.com

Meal Prep Made Simple

Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers Buy on Amazon Sunday meal prep becomes sustainable when you can see what you’ve made. These crystal-clear, leak-proof containers stack beautifully and go from fridge to microwave to dishwasher without complaint.

Quick & Healthy Cooking

Kitchen Organization

Joseph Joseph Nest 9 Plus, 9 Piece Compact Food Preparation Set with Mixing Bowls, Buy on Amazon Measuring cups, Sieve and Colander, Editions Range, Sage Green Space-saving design for busy kitchens. Nine essential prep tools nest together to take up the space of one large bowl—perfect for families short on cabinet space but big on home cooking.

Fresh Ingredients

OXO Good Grips GreenSaver Produce Keeper & Herb Keeper Bundle Buy on Amazon Make that farmers market haul last all week. The carbon filter and elevated basket keep fruits and vegetables fresh longer, reducing waste and those mid-week grocery runs.

Hanes mens Zip-up Hoodie, Buy on Amazon Ecosmart Fleece Full-zip Hoodie for Men, Hooded Sweatshirt

BOOMCOOL 5PCS Workout Sets Buy on Amazon includes a Compression Shirt, Pants Hoodie Jacket for Men outdoor sports, running, and indoor fitness.

For Your Reading Retreat

Cozy Reading Essentials

Kindle Paperwhite (16 GB) Buy on Amazon Carry your entire library in one hand. The glare-free screen reads like real paper, even in bright sunlight, and the battery lasts weeks—not hours. Perfect for stealing reading moments between activities.

Perfect Lighting

Glocusent LED Neck Reading Light Buy on Amazon Read in bed without disturbing your partner or after the kids finally fall asleep. This flexible, rechargeable light wraps around your neck for hands-free, shadow-free reading anywhere.

Book Lover’s Companion

Moleskine Classic Notebook (Large, Ruled) Buy on Amazon For the thoughts your books inspire. Track favorite quotes, jot down recipes from cookbooks, or keep a reading journal. The lay-flat binding makes it easy to write while curled up with a good book.

Listening Alternative

Reading Comfort

Wedge Reading Pillow with Arms Buy on Amazon Transform your bed or couch into a reading nook. The armrests hold your book or tablet at the perfect angle, and the back support means you can read for hours without neck strain.

Exercise Equipment for Busy Parents

Fit Simplify Resistance Loop Exercise Bands (Set of 5) Buy on Amazon Five color-coded bands from extra light to extra heavy. Perfect for strength training, physical therapy, or adding resistance to yoga routines. Compact enough to toss in a suitcase or store in a drawer.

WHATAFIT Resistance Bands Set (5 Bands with Handles) Buy on Amazon Complete home gym in a carrying case. These stackable bands provide up to 100 pounds of resistance with door anchor, handles, and ankle straps included. Great for full-body workouts when you can’t make it to the gym.

Cardio & Core

Gaiam Essentials Yoga Mat (6mm) Buy on Amazon Extra-thick cushioning protects knees and joints during floor work. The textured surface prevents slipping, and it’s long enough for tall yogis. Rolls up tight for easy storage.

Strength Equipment

Yes4All Kettlebell, 5-100 LB Vinyl Coated Cast Iron Strength Training Kettlebells
Buy on Amazon One versatile piece of equipment for swings, squats, Turkish get-ups, and more. The wide handle accommodates two-handed grips, and the flat bottom prevents rolling. Start with 15-20 pounds and work your way up.

Recovery & Flexibility

Stretching Strap with Loops Buy on Amazon Ten loops provide grip points for assisted stretching. Helps improve flexibility and range of motion without straining. Great for post-run stretches or morning mobility work.

Family Organization Must-Haves

Command Center

Blue Sky Large Monthly Wall Calendar Buy on Amazon One place for everyone’s schedule. Color-code each family member and finally know who needs to be where, when. The large format means no squinting at tiny date boxes.

Snack Station

Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers Buy on Amazon Pre-portion healthy snacks on Sunday and grab-and-go all week. Perfect for goldfish, pretzels, granola bars, and fruit pouches that fuel busy athletes.

On-the-Go Essentials

BAGAIL 8 Set Packing Cubes Luggage Packing Organizers Buy on Amazon Not just for travel. Use these to organize sports bags, keep clean uniforms separated from dirty ones, and pack tournament weekends without the chaos.

Making It All Work Together

The secret to thriving as a busy family isn’t doing more—it’s having the right tools that work harder so you don’t have to. These products aren’t luxuries; they’re the infrastructure that supports your family’s active, creative, nourishing lifestyle.

When your kids can grab their pre-packed duffle bags, you can whip up a healthy dinner in minutes, squeeze in a quick workout, and you still have energy left to crack open that new book on your nightstand? That’s not just survival. That’s actually enjoying this wild, wonderful phase of life.

Because you’re not just managing schedules—you’re creating a home where everyone’s passions have room to flourish.

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The Power of Radical Optimism

Posted on November 21, 2024 by Michael D Thomas

The Power of Radical Optimism in a World on Fire

The world feels like it’s unraveling at the seams. Climate change, political turmoil, economic inequality, and global conflict seem to be accelerating at an alarming rate. It’s easy to succumb to despair, to feel overwhelmed by the sheer scale of the problems facing humanity. But what if our default response to these challenges is fundamentally flawed?

The Illusion of Pessimism

Pessimism, with its air of intellectual superiority, often masquerades as wisdom. It’s a seductive trap, promising a sense of control by predicting the worst. By adopting a cynical worldview, we can absolve ourselves of responsibility, content in the knowledge that we were “right” all along. However, this is a false sense of security.

History is replete with examples of doomsayers who have been proven wrong. From the Club of Rome’s predictions of resource depletion to Paul Ehrlich’s dire warnings about overpopulation, time and again, human ingenuity has defied expectations.

The Radical Optimist’s Mindset

Radical optimism is not about ignoring the world’s problems or pretending that everything is fine. It’s about acknowledging the challenges while refusing to accept them as insurmountable. It’s about harnessing the power of human potential to create a better future.

Key Principles of Radical Optimism:

1. Embrace the Dichotomy of Control: Focus on what you can control and let go of what you can’t. This Stoic principle helps us maintain a sense of agency and avoid unnecessary stress.

2. Harness the Power of Technology: While technology can be a double-edged sword, it also offers immense potential for positive change. From renewable energy to artificial intelligence, technological advancements can help us address global challenges.

3. Think Systemically: Understand the interconnectedness of systems and identify leverage points where small changes can have significant impacts.

4. Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques like meditation and journaling can help us stay grounded, reduce stress, and cultivate a positive mindset.

Practical Tips for Cultivating Radical Optimism:

5 Start Small: Begin by focusing on small, achievable goals. Celebrate your successes, no matter how minor they may seem.

7 Cultivate Gratitude: Regularly practice gratitude by focusing on the positive aspects of your life.

8 Limit Negative News Consumption: Excessive exposure to negative news can contribute to feelings of anxiety and despair.

9 Build Strong Relationships: Surround yourself with positive, supportive people who inspire you.

10 Take Action: Get involved in causes you care about and make a difference in your community.

The Science of Optimism

Numerous studies have demonstrated the positive impact of optimism on physical and mental health. Optimistic individuals are more likely to experience lower levels of stress, improved immune function, and increased longevity.

As Martin Seligman, renowned psychologist and author of “Learned Optimism,” states, “Optimism is more than just positive thinking. It’s a way of explaining negative events to yourself in a way that minimizes their impact and allows you to bounce back.”

Overcoming Obstacles

Life is full of challenges, and even the most optimistic people experience setbacks. However, radical optimists approach obstacles as opportunities for growth and learning. By reframing challenges as stepping stones, we can maintain a positive outlook and persevere in the face of adversity.

Don’t Believe Everything You Think

Building a Community of Optimists

Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals can significantly enhance your well-being and motivation. By joining communities or online forums dedicated to optimism, you can connect with people who share your values and aspirations.

The Role of Leadership

Optimistic leaders play a crucial role in inspiring and motivating others. By setting a positive example and fostering a culture of hope, leaders can create a more positive and productive work environment.

As Nelson Mandela once said, “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” By cultivating a radical optimism mindset, we can overcome challenges, inspire others, and create a better future for ourselves and generations to come.

Call to Action: Ignite Your Inner Optimist

Are you ready to embrace a more optimistic outlook and make a positive impact on the world? Join the movement of radical optimists!

Here’s how you can start:

1. Mindful Practices: Incorporate mindfulness techniques like meditation and journaling into your daily routine.

2. Positive Affirmations: Use positive affirmations to reprogram your thoughts and beliefs.

3. Limit Negative News: Curate your news consumption to focus on positive and inspiring stories.

4. Connect with Like-Minded Individuals: Join communities and online forums to connect with fellow optimists.

5. Take Action: Volunteer, donate, or start a project to make a difference in your community.

Remember, every small step counts. By cultivating a positive mindset and taking action, you can contribute to a brighter future for all.

Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let’s inspire each other and build a more optimistic world together!
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Michael D. Thomas / Empire Beat Magazine

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Best Exercise Bikes for Short Riders

Posted on September 19, 2024 by Michael D Thomas

If you’re on the shorter side, finding the right exercise bike can sometimes feel like a challenge. But fear not! With a little research, you can find a bike that fits your body perfectly.

Key Factors to Consider:

Before we dive into specific recommendations, let’s discuss some key factors to consider when choosing an exercise bike:

Seat Height Adjustment: Ensure the bike has a seat that can be adjusted to a low enough height to comfortably reach the pedals.
Handlebar Position: The handlebars should be adjustable to allow for a comfortable and ergonomic riding position.
Frame Size: A smaller frame size may be more suitable for shorter riders, but always check the manufacturer’s recommended height guidelines.
Weight Capacity: Make sure the bike can support your weight.
Features: Consider features like resistance levels, heart rate monitoring, and built-in programs.

Top Exercise Bikes for Shorter Riders:

Now, let’s explore some of the best exercise bikes on the market that are specifically designed or well-suited for shorter riders:

1. Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike

Pros: Comfortable recumbent design, adjustable seat and handlebars, easy to get on and off.
Cons: May be bulkier than some other options.

2. Sunny Health & Fitness Compact Performance Recumbent Bike

Pros: Compact and space-saving design, adjustable resistance and seat, affordable price.
Cons: May not have as many features as more expensive models.

3. NordicTrack Commercial X22i Studio Bike

Pros: Interactive workout experience with iFIT, adjustable incline and decline, high-quality construction.
Cons: Can be expensive.

4. Merach Recumbent Exercise Bike

Pros: Comfortable recumbent design, adjustable resistance and seat, affordable price.
Cons: May not have as many features as more expensive models.

5. Bowflex C6 Bike

Pros: Adjustable seat and handlebars, quiet operation, built-in heart rate monitor.
Cons: May be more expensive than some other options.

6. Yosudo Exercise Bike

Pros: Affordable, compact design, adjustable resistance and seat.
Cons: May not have as many features as more expensive models.

7. NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Studio Bike

Pros: Interactive workout experience with iFIT, adjustable incline and decline, high-quality construction.
Cons: Can be expensive.

Remember to:

Test ride: Whenever possible, try out different bikes to find the one that feels most comfortable.
Consider your budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on an exercise bike.
Read reviews: Check online reviews to see what other users have to say about specific models.

By following these guidelines and considering your individual needs, you can find the perfect exercise bike to help you reach your fitness goals.

Michael D Thomas, Empire Beat Magazine

Disclaimer: “This page contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.” “As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.”

The Best Hobbies For people Over 50

Posted on November 18, 2023 by Michael D Thomas

Turning 50 is a milestone birthday. It’s a time to reflect on your life and think about what’s important to you. It’s also a time to start thinking about your hobbies.

Hobbies are important for people of all ages, but they can be especially important for people over 50. Hobbies can help you stay active, engaged, and social. They can also help you learn new things and challenge yourself.

If you’re looking for some new hobbies to try, here are a few ideas:

1. Birdwatching

Birdwatching is a great hobby for people of all ages, but it can be especially enjoyable for people over 50. It’s a great way to get outdoors and enjoy nature. It’s also a great way to learn about different types of birds and their habitats.

Birdwatching is the perfect hobby for people over 50. It’s a great way to get outside and enjoy nature without having to do anything too strenuous. And it’s a great way to meet other people who share your interests.

Of course, birdwatching can also be a bit of a challenge. After all, birds are pretty small, and they can be tough to spot. But that’s part of the fun! It’s like a real-life game of Where’s Waldo?

If you’re thinking about getting into birdwatching, here are a few tips to get you started:

Get a good pair of binoculars. This is essential for spotting birds in the distance.
Get a field guide to birds. This will help you identify the different types of birds you see.
Find a local birdwatching club. This is a great way to meet other birdwatchers and learn more about the hobby.

2. Knitting and crocheting

Knitting and crocheting are great hobbies for people of all ages, but they can be especially enjoyable for people over 50. They’re a great way to relax and de-stress. They’re also a great way to create beautiful and useful items.

Knitting and crocheting are perfect hobbies for people over 50. They’re a great way to relax and de-stress without having to do anything too strenuous. And they’re a great way to create beautiful and useful items like scarves, hats, and blankets.

Of course, knitting and crocheting can also be a bit of a challenge. After all, it takes some practice to learn how to knit and crochet properly. But that’s part of the fun! It’s like a real-life game of Jenga with yarn.

If you’re thinking about getting into knitting or crocheting, here are a few tips to get you started:

Find a local knitting or crocheting club. This is a great way to meet other knitters and crocheters and learn more about the hobby.
There are many great resources available online and in libraries to teach you how to knit and crochet.
Start with simple projects, like a scarf or hat. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can move on to more complex projects.

3. Genealogy

Genealogy is a great hobby for people of all ages, but it can be especially enjoyable for people over 50. It’s a great way to learn about your family history and connect with your ancestors.

Genealogy is the perfect hobby for people over 50. It’s a great way to learn about your family history and connect with your ancestors without having to do anything too strenuous. And it’s a great way to discover all the skeletons in your family closet.

Of course, genealogy can also be a bit of a challenge. After all, it can be tough to track down information about your ancestors, especially if they lived in a different country or period. But that’s part of the fun! It’s like a real-life game of Where’s Waldo? with your family history.

If you’re thinking about getting into genealogy, here are a few tips to get you started:

Start by talking to your family members about your family history. They may have some information or stories that you can use.
Search for online resources and databases that can help you track down information about your ancestors.
Visit local libraries and historical societies to see if they have any information about your family history.

4. Volunteering

Volunteering is a great way to give back to your community and meet new people. It’s also a great way to stay active and engaged.

Volunteering is the perfect hobby for people over 50. It’s a great way to give back to your community

These are just a few ideas for hobbies that people over 50 can enjoy. There are many other great hobbies out there, so take some time to explore and find something that you’re passionate about.

The most important thing is to find a hobby that you enjoy and that makes you feel good. Hobbies can help you stay active, engaged, and social. They can also help you learn new things and challenge yourself.

So, what are you waiting for? Start exploring and find a hobby that you love! And don’t be afraid to try something new. You never know what you might be good at.

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Michael D Thomas Empire Beat Magazine

Why You Should Start a Side Hustle After 50!

Posted on November 18, 2023 by Michael D Thomas

Over 50 and looking for a Side Hustle?

Good for you if you’re over 50 and considering a side company. You’ve come to the correct place. Learn the basics alongside some lightheartedness in this informative blog post.

Why Should You Start a Side Business Over 50?

People over the age of 50 start businesses for a variety of reasons. While for some, it’s a way to supplement their income in retirement, for others, it’s a way to maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle. Others go into business for themselves so that they can do something they’re truly passionate about.

Regardless of your motivation, it’s always a good idea to look for ways to enhance your quality of life. It can provide you with a safety net financially, teach you something new, and test you in exciting ways.

Finding the Right Side Job

Selecting a potential side business opportunity is the initial step. Where do your interests lie? In what ways do you excel? What sort of enterprise would you most like to manage?

You should start researching once you have a few concepts in mind. Examine the availability of buyers for your product. Learn the strategies used by rival businesses. And check that you’re well-equipped with the knowledge and materials you’ll need.

How to launch a second career

After settling on a potential side business, the next step is to get to work. Some advice is as follows:

Make a plan for your company. This will be useful in clarifying your business objectives and plans.

Pick a name for your company and have it registered.

Create business checking and credit card accounts. This will assist you in maintaining a wall between your corporate and private funds.

Create a marketing strategy. Where would you advertise to attract your desired audience?

Get the word out!

Successful Strategies

Some advice for making money on the side:

Maintain order and self-control. The ability to plan ahead and avoid becoming sidetracked is crucial.

Wait your turn. A prosperous enterprise does not appear overnight. Don’t count on getting rich quickly.

Keep at it. There will be difficulties to overcome. But if you keep at it, you will reach your goal.

It’s a good idea for retirees over the age of 50 to start a side company. But remember to keep your expectations in check.

Side Hustle Secrets

You won’t follow in the footsteps of Elon Musk or Jeff Bezos. However, it is possible to establish a prosperous enterprise that brings you both financial and personal rewards.

Some amusing slants on starting a second career beyond middle age:

Avoid acting like you’re too cool for school. You are no longer considered a millennial. So, avoid starting a side business based on following the fads. Instead, put your energy into something you love and are good at.

Don’t be shy about seeking assistance. Many options exist to assist you in launching and expanding your firm. If you need assistance, don’t be shy about asking for it.

Side Hustle Secrets

Don’t be afraid to try and fail. Entrepreneurs should prepare themselves to fail. Therefore, do not be reluctant to experiment. You will gain experience, no matter what the outcome of your attempt.

If you’re over 50 and looking to make some extra money, starting a side business can be a fantastic option. It’s crucial to pick a venture in which you have a genuine interest and the tools to begin going. Maintain a systematic approach, self-control, patience, and determination, and you’ll go far.

The most essential thing is to not take life too seriously. I hope you enjoy it.

Here is a list of the top 10 side gigs for folks over the age of 50.

All of these side businesses are ideal for retirees because of their minimal entry costs and flexibility in scheduling. They also provide a great deal of leeway in terms of schedule, letting you put in as little or as much time as you like.

Here’s a quick rundown of each potential side gig:

Writing and editing on a contract basis

You can start a freelance writing or editing business if you have a knack for writing or editing. Businesses, people, and media outlets can all benefit from your expertise.

Electronic helper (VA)

Administrative, technical, and artistic support are all within reach of clients with the help of a virtual assistant. Anyone with transferable talents and experience can benefit from this as a side hustle.

Director of Social Media

Managers of a company’s social media accounts assist organizations in establishing and maintaining a positive public image. This includes coming up with material for social media, scheduling postings, and engaging with viewers.

Digital Educator

Students of all ages can benefit from the one-on-one instruction offered by an online teacher. For those with specialized knowledge, this is a fantastic opportunity for extra income.

Editor and Checker

A proofreader is someone whose job it is to check documents for typos and other problems in the written language. Those who take pride in their work and pay attention to detail will find this a rewarding side venture.

Accountant

Bookkeepers are useful for firms because they maintain track of money and generate financial reports. Those with a background in accounting will find this to be an ideal side gig.

Graphic Artist

Graphic designers use software or their own two hands to come up with visual concepts that inform, entertain, and inspire customers. Those with artistic abilities might do well to consider this a side business.

Web designer

A web developer creates and maintains websites for businesses and individuals. Those with technical knowledge can make a good living doing this on the side.

Consultant

Consultants are professionals who assist firms by offering advice and direction on a wide range of issues. Those who have extensive knowledge in a certain field can make good money doing this on the side.

Internet vendor (Affiliate Marketing)

E-commerce sellers offer their wares on third-party websites like Amazon, Affiliate Marketing, and eBay in addition to their own. If you have anything to sell online or are skilled at locating and selling items online, this could be a wonderful way to make some extra money on the side.

I recommend looking at some of these possibilities if you’re thinking about launching a side business. The next step is to settle on a side business in which you have a genuine interest and the resources to begin! With perseverance and focus, you may create a lucrative side business that adds to your income and fulfills you personally.

Good luck on Your Side Hustle Journey!

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