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You made it through the winter, so now it's smooth-sailing for you and your car through spring and summer, right? Before you head out on the road, however, make sure your car is ready, too. Taking the time to do spring maintenance on your Toyota will help make sure you get to your vacation destinations without any problems. Here's a list of maintenance items for your Toyota once spring hits. more Wash the Outside The sand and salt used on winter roads take a toll on your vehicle's exterior. Once all the snow and ice is gone, take the time to thoroughly clean the entire car from top to bottom. This is also a great time to add coat of wax to help protect the paint. Inspect the Tires If you live in an area where you don't need winter tires, have them inspected for wear and tear. Check the depth of the tread and for any uneven wear. Also check the tire pressure to make sure it is correct. If you live up north and use snow tires, spring is the time to change back to your all-weather tires. Check the Brakes Unless you know your way around the brake system, the best way to have them checked is by a Toyota professional. They will evaluate the wear on the pads and the discs for rough spots. If the pads are too thin or the discs are showing too much wear, have them change the brakes right away. Flush and Top Off the Fluids Spring is a great time to check and flush the fluids in your vehicle. The owner's manual provides you with a recommended service schedule so you can plan ahead. Have your mechanic check the oil, the transmission fluid, and the brake fluid and top off or change what is needed. Check the Air Conditioning Once spring hits, that means summer is right around the corner, so make sure your car is ready to keep you cool. Make sure the air conditioning coolant is full, and have a mechanic check the system for any possible leaks. Then when that first blistering hot day hits, you know your car will be able to cool things down. Inspect the Windshield Wipers The winter weather can take a toll on your windshield wipers, too. To make sure you have good visibility when the first spring rainstorm rolls in, check the wipers for cracks and decay. If needed, replace the wipers with a new set, and top off the washer fluid to replace what you used during the winter. Check the Battery Salt can also increase the risk of corrosion on the connections leading to and from the car battery. Check all the posts to make sure they are clean. If needed, disconnect the battery and use a solution to clean the battery posts before reconnecting the cables. Now that you have thoroughly completed a springtime inspection of your Toyota, you and your vehicle are ready for your warm weather adventures. Image provided by Shutterstock

There's nothing more important than the safety of your children, so it's only natural that this extends to your car. However, it's more than just getting the best safety features for your car. If you aren't sure where to start, check out a few of these kid-friendly essentials to ensure the safety and comfort of your children. more Diaper Bag Before getting into features that come with the car, don't forget about the necessities. Taking a diaper bag with you on any trip is the first measure to take, as it comes with all the things you need if your child decides to act up or makes a mess. Stock your diaper bag full of diapers, clothes, toys, wet wipes, pacifiers, snacks, and anything else you might need. If all else fails, try keeping an extra emergency diaper bag in the car. Extra Cargo Space As you've assuredly seen on television and in numerous advertising campaigns, having a child pretty much takes care of owning a two-seater sports car or any other sports car for that matter, unless you have the money and means for it. Regardless of your situation, you're going to need a car with a large trunk, a minivan, or an SUV to haul around all the kids' stuff. Remember that strollers, diaper bags, and your own stuff take up a ton of space, and you won't realize it until you've packed it all in. For this reason, hatchbacks are often the preferred choice of new parents. Sunshades Although you could just put some sunscreen and a pair of sunglasses on the child, which makes for a great Facebook photo opportunity, a better way to protect them from sun is buying a sunshade. These handy shades are typically hung from the window either through suction cups or clinging naturally, keeping the sun's harmful rays from becoming overbearing. This is an absolute must if you live in a sunny climate. Music and Videos Thanks to some great technology features, many family-friendly vehicles are now equipped with TV screens in the backseat. Located in either the front headrests or a pull-down version, these are invaluable when you're stressed and your child is being bratty. With this, you can put on their favorite video and keep them quiet until you reach your destination. Music is another distraction to keep your kids in line, so make sure to have their favorites on hand. Active Safety Features As if you don't have enough to worry about already, you still have to focus on driving with your kids in the car. That's where active safety features become invaluable. Features such as blind spot assist, a rearview camera, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning are great ways to make you aware of what's on the road, even if there are a few distractions. You don't have to have all of these in your car to take care of your child, but it's definitely easier. The more of these you have, the easier it is to multitask, and you'll ultimately end up at your destination safe and sound. Image provided by Shutterstock

Whether you're a race car fan or not, you have to marvel at how these individuals can take on a 500 mile race and keep the concentration up for the duration of the ride. While this isn't a likely scenario for you, it does offer suggestions on how to tackle your driving responsibilities throughout your hectic schedule. Here are a few things you can learn from the best drivers in the world. more Anticipate and Look Ahead When you're driving almost 200 miles per hour, looking ahead and anticipating the moves of others is easier said than done. Let's face it, even doing that at 60 miles per hour is a tough task. However, it's important to get into this habit sooner rather than later. If you see an aggressive driver in your rearview mirror that's driving too fast and weaving out of traffic, it's best to just get out of the way. The same goes for looking ahead. If something bad is about to happen, you can avoid it, instead of becoming another part of the accident. Drive a Manual Obviously, there's no sense in driving a manual transmission when an automatic will do, right? Automatics provide an easier route to get to your destination, and you don't have to worry about using the clutch or shifting. Despite their ease of use, automatics actually make you a lazy driver. Because you don't have to shift, many drivers use their extra hand to eat, talk on the phone, or put on makeup, making them a potential driving threat. Using a manual shift makes you have to concentrate far more and thus makes you a better driver. Plus, once you get it down, a manual transmission is awfully fun to drive. Always Be Fresh The night before a big race, most race car drivers try to rest up and get their focus ready for the task at hand. They have a grueling race ahead of them, and without sleep, they'll fall short of their goal. On a day-to-day basis, you only have to drive a short distance in comparison. Even so, rest becomes important. The more well-rested you are, the better your focus becomes. It seems like a no-brainer, but each day, someone falls asleep at the wheel, causing a catastrophic accident. When in doubt, hit the sack rather than hitting the road. Prep Your Car Before every big race, the driver and his crew undergo exhaustive maintenance and inspections to ensure the integrity and performance of the vehicle. You should do the same. If you notice your car making strange noises or driving oddly, don't wait. Take it to a mechanic immediately. They can diagnose the problem and save you from an accident waiting to happen, like a blown tire or something else that's potentially dangerous. You don't have to become a race car driver to know how to drive a vehicle. Instead, heed the advice of these drivers. It isn't a great task to follow these tips (except maybe the manual transmission), and you'll rest easy knowing you're one of the best drivers on the road. Image provided by Shutterstock

Once you've decided on the new car you want to buy, you can start to add all the features that make it unique to your tastes. One of those decisions is car color. This aspect is a representation of your style and personality, so it's definitely an aspect not to overlook. In addition, many colors adversely affect the resale value of the car, so it's important not to choose something too gaudy. If you want one of the trendy colors for 2016, check out a few of these shades. more Blue Depending on what type of car you're in to, blue is the optimum choice. For sports cars and sedans, it's an attractive color that's both eye-catching and soothing simultaneously. SUVs and trucks don't look nearly as sharp in this shade, so if you want one of these vehicles, think about something else. However, with choices such as "Blue Crush Metallic," "Blue Streak Metallic," and "Electric Storm Blue," it's easy to see why blue is the fastest growing car color in the country. Red Red is definitely a more showy color that conjures up images of high-end sports cars. However, it's a great color for most cars, especially a truck. While getting your truck in red might seem like you're turning it into a fire truck, it's actually a great American classic, much like baseball and apple pie. Check out some options such as "Hot Lava," "Barcelona Red Metallic," "Inferno," or "Radiant Red" to really showcase this hue. Silver Based on statistics from the past year, silver leads the pack as the top color for cars. The basic reasoning is that humans subconsciously like shiny colors and ones that evoke a sense of a futuristic vehicle. It's the same idea behind appliances and other technologies sporting a silver tone. Try "Silver Sky Metallic" or "Celestial Silver Metallic" on your next purchase. Gray Although gray is sometimes misconstrued as silver, it's a bit duller than the silver, but this lack of flair isn't necessarily a bad thing. Much to the contrary, gray is a soothing tone that's attractive on many sedans and coupes, without standing out too much. It's a great color for those that don't have a showy personality, and comes in darker and lighter shades such as the darker "Predawn Gray Metallic" or the light "Creme Brulee." Black If none of these other colors suit you, there's nothing more traditional than classic black. Whether it's a car, truck, or SUV, black is a great color, not only because it doesn't show dirt, but also because it gives off a sleek sophistication. However, recent statistics show that black is lower in popularity on luxury cars than ever before. Nevertheless, it's a hard option not to consider in both matte and metallic. Regardless if you're just keeping up with current trends or simply showcasing your tastes, the color of your car provides an insight into your preferences and personality. By choosing the right color, you'll also find yourself more satisfied with your purchase and love every minute of your drive. Image provided by Shutterstock

As you age gracefully into your later years, many things in your life change. What you need or want in a car is just another part of the list. No longer can you opt for a low-seated, two-door sports car. Instead, you need something that gets you around in comfort while also leaving you some money for other things in life. If you're in the market for a new car, check out some of these Toyotas for your retirement years. more Toyota Camry There's a reason that the Camry has been one of the top-selling cars in America for over 20 years. With good fuel economy, interior comfort, and a number of safety features, the Camry is perfect for seniors. It gets an EPA-estimated 25 miles per gallon in the city and 35 on the highway, so you won't have to keep going to the pump. In addition, it also has great safety features such as blind spot assist, in case your vision isn't what it used to be. Toyota Avalon For seniors with a little more cash in the bank or ones that like a bit more luxury, the Toyota Avalon is a solid selection. Essentially, it's a high-end version of the Camry, offering many of the same great features, but also with options such as leather for a comfortable drive to your destination. Add in a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and the Avalon is a perfect, luxurious fit. Toyota Rav4 This SUV/crossover is the clear choice for seniors that need more room for their hobbies or hauling their grandkids around town. It's a smaller SUV, so it sits fairly low, making it easier to enter and get out of the vehicle. It also has up to 73.4 cubic feet of cargo space and a dashboard layout that's easy to navigate. For further comfort, the Rav4 also has optional dual climate control and leather-appointed seats if you desire. Toyota Highlander Much like the Rav4, the Highlander is a smaller crossover that provides added space and great fuel economy for vehicles in its class. The Highlander also boasts a lower seat cushion height, as well as a higher roof, meaning it's easy to get in and out of the vehicle. For outdoor enthusiasts or those that like to go fishing, you can take up to eight people in the Highlander or pack it full of your gear. Available all-wheel drive makes it easy to find those secret fishing places or for taking care of the steep part of a good hike. Toyota Mirai Although it has a high price tag, the Mirai's low yearly costs make it an even trade. The Mirai is a fuel cell car which runs entirely on hydrogen. As a result, the car gets up to 67 miles per gallon equivalent. What this means for you is far less maintenance and fuel costs, as well as a stylish car that gives off no emissions. It's the perfect car for those looking to give their grandchildren a better tomorrow. Regardless of which Toyota you choose, you'll find them pleasant to drive and comfortable. That means you won't have to worry about your car, leaving you more time for the people you love. Image provided by Shutterstock

For the inexperienced driver, the thought of combating rush hour traffic or merging on to the highway seems downright scary. However, being anxious and nervous are two qualities that result in you making rash decisions and ultimately causing an accident. If this sounds like you, don't fear. Here are a few tips to help calm your driving anxiety so the drive seems fun and much less daunting. more Drive During Less Hectic Periods One of the best things a nervous driver can do is hone their skills when there are less drivers on the road. Instead of trying to drive during the morning or evening rush, try to test your driving skills during the early afternoon. At this time, there are far less drivers on the road, allowing you to breathe easy and gain some valuable driving experience. Use an App or Take a Friend Another stressful time for a driver is when navigating an area they are unfamiliar with. Normally, this leads to added pressure to find the right street or take the right exit. Luckily, there are ways around this. By taking a friend with you or using an app or GPS, someone else tells you where to go instead of you having to drive and look at street signs at the same time. This type of multi-tasking is almost unbearable for novice drivers, so using one of these alternatives allows you to keep your eyes on the road. Don't "Keep Up" With Traffic If you've ever driven on the Interstate, you know that there are anywhere from two to six lanes going in one direction. Many times, this means that motorists are going several different speeds, with some driving fast and others going very slow. That said, try to find a speed that's in your comfort zone, typically within five to 10 miles per hour of the speed limit. Most states have a minimum Interstate speed of 45 miles per hour, so you'll need to go at least that fast. However, you'll feel safe in your comfort zone, and won't feel the necessity to keep pace with crazy or aggressive drivers. Choose the Right Music Even if you're the world's biggest metal fan, it's probably not in your best interest to blare Slipknot or Slayer at deafening volume. Instead, try listening to some quieter or laid back music like reggae, country, or classical. Even talk radio has a calming effect, unless it's a political or sports show that really gets you fired up. Avoid those altogether. Confront Your Fear Just like any other phobia, the best attack is often battling it head on. If the mere thought of driving stresses you out beyond consolation, try baby steps. Take the car for a spin in your neighborhood. If rush hour traffic frightens you, ease your way into getting used to it. This is often the quickest and most effective way to rid yourself of anxiety. Perhaps the most important aspect to calm your driving anxiety is to remove any outside stress before you get behind the wheel. Once you've done that, follow these tips, and you'll find driving much more enjoyable. Image provided by Shutterstock

The Toyota Prius is one of the most recognizable brands in today's market and is currently the highest selling hybrid vehicle in the United States. The Prius is best known for its eco-friendly fuel efficiency and gets 51 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 48 mpg on highway roads. With stats like these, it's no wonder the vehicle continues to be an international hit with drivers year after year. The Toyota Prius family consists of the iconic Toyota Prius, the Toyota Prius C, and the Toyota Prius V. If you're considering purchasing your first Toyota Prius, use the following guide to help you decide which Prius is ideal for you. more Toyota Prius The original Toyota Prius is aerodynamic in style so you can enjoy a quiet drive and the best possible fuel efficiency due to reduced wind resistance. The Prius gets an average of 50 mpg and has the ability to automatically switch from electric to gas, or use a combination of both to provide you with the most fuel-efficient driving experience. The 2015 Prius model offers multimedia that includes Bing, iHeartRadio, MovieTickets.com, OpenTable, and Pandora, and additional apps that provide sports, traffic, and weather news, as well as prices on fuel and stocks. The interior of the Prius is outfitted in SofTex trim material and features a spacious cabin that comfortably fits five passengers. Toyota Prius C The Toyota Prius C is currently the most affordable vehicle in the Prius family and has a city mpg of 53, which is the highest city mpg available in today's market. The Prius C is more compact than the original Prius and features wild contrast-color accents on its exterior to make your vehicle stand out on the road. The Prius C is ideal for drivers who spend most of their time in the city since the Prius C is small and compact enough to maneuver in and out of traffic and into small parking spaces. This Prius model also features a rear spoiler to help improve airflow dynamics. Toyota Prius V The Toyota Prius V offers the most room out of any other Prius model with 34.3 cubic feet. of cargo space, and is ideal for families and those who travel frequently. The cabin features numerous storage compartments for necessities such as flashlights, gloves, and first aid equipment, or any supplies you might need for a family road trip. The vehicle's rear seats even have slide forward, backward, and recline so passengers can relax in comfort. While the Prius V offers fewer mpg than its counterparts, its estimated 42 mpg still makes for the best fuel-efficient choice out of any other SUV, crossover utility vehicle, or wagon offered by other brands. There are endless benefits to investing in a Prius, especially when taking fuel economy into consideration. If you're looking for an eco-friendly vehicle that allows you to spend less time gassing up and more time enjoying your drive, the Toyota Prius is definitely the right choice for you. Image via Pixabay

Young adults who head off to college need vehicles that are safe, reliable, and economical so they can get around with ease and spend less time worrying about their cars and more time studying. Students who find themselves stuck with a lemon can experience car failure and other problems that can steal time away from school. Toyota has been recognized as one of the top brands for students with busy college lifestyles and offers several models that can satisfy any student based on their priorities and interests. Check out the below four Toyota models ideal for college and university students. more 1. Toyota RAV4 Toyota considers the RAV4 its most stylish, smart, and adventurous vehicle, especially since the RAV4 scores high in reliability and offers a low economical price point. The RAV4 can handle every type of weather condition, and has an aerodynamic design effective at offering stability at top highway speeds, meaning students can commute to and from home for holidays and vacations with ease. Newer RAV4 models offer audio systems with navigation so students can listen to music as they drive through unfamiliar streets and highways located near school. 2. Toyota Prius The Toyota Prius is a green-friendly favorite among newer generations, thanks to its impressive fuel efficiency. This hybrid vehicle offers an average of 50 miles per gallon (mpg) so students can spend less on gassing up and more on food, room and board, and college tuition. The Prius is shaped to combat windy conditions so drivers can enjoy a quiet, relaxing ride around campus. The Prius also ranks high in safety and offers seven airbags, Safety Connect emergency assistance, and a pre-collision system effective at automatically applying brakes and retracting front seat belts to prepare for collisions. 3. Toyota Camry The Toyota Camry continues to rank high in safety and reliability year after year and has earned a five-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Students who drive the Toyota Camry can stay safe and worry-free at all times as they navigate their vehicles through traffic and campus. Newer Camry models feature an aggressive design and sporty interior to enhance the driving experience and offer an average of up to 35 mpg on highway roads. Students looking for a bit of everything in a vehicle should turn to the jack-of-all-trades Toyota Camry. 4. Toyota FJ Cruiser College students who like to get away from campus for outdoor recreation will appreciate the Toyota FJ Cruiser. This Toyota model is reliable and safe for off-road adventures and offers a strong, sturdy frame that supports driving through mud, streams and harsh conditions. The FJ Cruiser also serves as the ideal go-to carpool vehicle, since it supports five passengers and offers 66.8 cu. ft. of maximum storage capacity. Toyota vehicles have a great reputation for safety and reliability and are ideal for college students who want economical vehicles that offer little in the way of car problems. Visit your local Toyota dealer to learn more about Toyota models that fit your lifestyle. Image via Toyota.com

When you go camping, you need an efficient, reliable vehicle that can support all your camping gear and access the best off-road campsites. Without the right car, you won't be able to take the supplies you need, and you probably won't be able to drive into forests and woods without getting stuck or experiencing some problems. Toyota offers a number of trucks and sport utility vehicles that are more than capable of getting you and your passengers to your camping destination. Here are four of the best Toyota vehicles to take camping: more 1. Toyota FJ Cruiser With a look and style that mirrors that of the Toyota FJ40, which was released in the 1960s, the Toyota FJ Cruiser has a sturdy frame and plenty of clearance so you can drive through streams and climb roads most other utility vehicles are unable to reach. The storage capacity in the FJ Cruiser offers a maximum of 66.8 cu. ft., which is more than enough room for five passengers and camping gear. This Toyota model is also powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine with the option for four-wheel drive and can tow up to 4,700 pounds. 2. Toyota 4Runner The Toyota 4Runner has been around for over 30 years and features durable, aggressive all-terrain tires that can drive through rocks, dirt, and mud so you can reach your campsite with ease. The vehicle's body-on-frame construction makes the 4Runner ideal for harsh trails and other treacherous road conditions -- a fact Toyota has backed up by stating that 90 percent of all 4Runners sold within the last 10 years are still on the road today. The back seats in the 4Runner even fold down so you can accommodate up to 88 cu. ft. of camping gear and cargo. 3. Toyota Land Cruiser The Toyota Land Cruiser is powered by a 5.7-liter V8 engine that allows the vehicle to conquer the most weather-beaten of trails and boasts solid axle rear suspension that allows for seamless movement in rougher off-road conditions. The Land Cruiser comes with Crawl Control, which allows the vehicle to make easier turns on narrow trails. Newer models of the Toyota Land Cruiser come equipped with second- and third-row seats that can be folded down to accommodate 81.7 cu. ft. of cargo room. 4. Toyota Sequoia The Toyota Sequoia is the ultimate camping vehicle if you're driving lots of passengers and pets, as the vehicle offers comfortable seating for up to eight people. After folding down all rear seats, the Sequoia features a whopping 120.1 cu.ft. of cargo capacity so you can take a friend or partner on a week-long outdoor adventure. The Sequoia is powered by a 5.7-liter V8 engine, and can tow up to 7,400 pounds so you can take boats and other vehicles with you on your trip. Your vehicle can make all the difference on a camping trip, so why not choose a vehicle that can support your adventures? Toyota can provide you with everything you need and more when camping and going off-road. Image via Toyota.com

Whether you're a resident or tourist of Chesapeake, you're probably interested in what this city has to offer in terms of cuisine. Fortunately, you're in for a very pleasant surprise, as you will find many excellent restaurants in Chesapeake. Next time you go out to eat in Chesapeake, you should consider going to one of these five famous Chesapeake restaurants. more Cutting Edge If you're absolutely in love with Paninis, you are doing yourself a disservice by not immediately heading to the Cutting Edge in Chesapeake. During the lunch hour, this restaurant is almost always packed. Once you taste the food, you will know exactly why. At the Cutting Edge, you can expect to get far more than just a standard Panini sandwich with standard toppings. This restaurant is traditional in terms of the way they make the Paninis, but it's absolutely innovative when it comes to the ingredients used to make the Paninis. You can order Paninis made with ingredients you never thought would be possible, such as kimchi, jam, wasabi, and more. Not only are the combinations unique, but they are also absolutely delicious. Cutlass Grill The Cutlass Grill is the perfect restaurant for you if you're in love with Caribbean food. At this restaurant, you can enjoy all types of Jamaican cuisine such as curry goat, Jamaican jerk chicken, and fried plantains. Not only are the main dishes well-prepared at this restaurant, but so are the side dishes. In general, if you want a temporary escape from American cuisine, you will not regret that you went to the Cutlass Grill. The Egg Bistro Head to the Egg Bistro if you want to treat yourself to an amazing breakfast or brunch. At this restaurant, you will be able to eat traditional breakfast foods. What makes the Egg Bistro special is the amazing quality of the food. The food at Egg Bistro is everything you would expect from excellent home cooking in more. You will feel like you're in heaven when you're eating the southern biscuits, gravy, eggs, and other traditional breakfast foods. Not only does this restaurant get the taste of the food right, but also the texture for the greatest breakfast experience. Latern Restaurant If you're in the mood for some fine dining, you should visit the Latern Restaurant. At this restaurant, you will be able to choose from an entire menu of delicious food in a beautiful yet somewhat casual environment. The Latern Restaurant is known for its amazing main courses, but the desserts are what truly steal the show for a lot of people. Some amazing desserts served by this restaurant are the crème brûlée and the lava cake. Buttercream Cupcake Cafe Visit the Buttercream Cupcake Cafe if you're willing to break your diet for some amazing cupcakes. Cupcakes from this café are everything you would expect from the perfect dessert and more. The cupcakes are very moist and are very spongy. The icing is delicious and not overly sweet. Best of all, this café offers restaurants in over a dozen different flavors for some taste-testing fun. Image via Pixabay

Hurricane season is a stressful time for everyone because of all the preparation involved, from getting your house ready to create an emergency plan. Your Toyota should be a part of your planning, but it doesn't have to be an added stress. We've come up with four tips for making sure your car is ready for the season — all of which can be done ahead of time so you won't have to scramble at the last minute. Read on to discover our top tips and how they can help you stay sane. more Keep Your Toyota Maintained One of the most important tips is to keep your car in tip-top shape. Before the season begins, bring in your car regularly to have the oil and tires checked for any issues, and make sure you get both your oil changed and tires rotated as needed. As the season begins, bring it in for a more thorough inspection. Have your mechanic look at the AC, test the spare tires and belt, and check your fluid levels. That way, if you have to head out on an evacuation route, you're less likely to run into any issues that could put you and your family in danger. Stock Up on Emergency Gear When hurricane season begins, start assembling an emergency bag in case you get stuck in inclement weather or have to evacuate. Some staples for vehicle purposes should include a few cans of Fix-A-Flat, antifreeze, road flares, jumper cables, and a gas canister. These should help you out of the most common roadside issues. In addition to repair items, make sure you have at least one gallon of water per person, as well as a three-day supply of food like protein bars or granola. First aid supplies are also vital, as are extra clothing and some bedding — in case you're on the road for a few days at a time. If at all possible, purchase an external phone charger or portable power bank to ensure you will have a means of communication. Keep a Full Tank of Gas As a storm approaches, you'll often find long lines at gas stations and raised prices, which can be frustrating and take up valuable time. Make sure you keep a full tank of gas throughout the season so you're ready to go at a moment's notice and won't get stuck waiting in long lines for expensive fuel. Keep Your Toyota Safe Don't need to evacuate? It's a good idea to park your Toyota somewhere safe, away from falling branches and other debris. Parking your car in a garage is ideal.  Don't park under a tree or power lines, both of which can cause serious issues. If all you have is a carport, make sure it's sturdy; rusty or weak carports can collapse during storms and cause more damage. If you can't park in a garage, try to park near a building that can help block some of the storms. If you have to park it outside, make sure you take before and after pictures for insurance purposes, in case something does happen. Hurricanes can be scary, but following these tips can help get you and your car prepared. Image via Pixabay

The state of Virginia is home to dozens of beautiful, cozy bed and breakfast (B&B) resorts that can serve as the ideal romantic getaway for you and your partner. Steeped in history having entered statehood as the tenth state in 1788, Virginia offers B&B resorts established in ornate, historical homes and plantations that will make visitors feel as if they've traveled back in time. Are you and your partner planning an upcoming romantic getaway? Check out the following four B&B resorts located throughout Virginia guaranteed to satisfy most lovebirds. more 1. Goodstone Inn in Middleburg Goodstone Inn offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and surrounding countryside, and features winding roads lined with horse farms that will excite guests with equestrian interests. Late risers who miss breakfast can enjoy the resort's complimentary afternoon tea served with pastries and small sandwiches while lounging on plush seating in front of a stone fireplace. This 18-room B&B features an award-winning French restaurant and heated pool, and runs between $295 to $745 per night. 2. The Inn at Tabbs Creek in Port Haywood Named one of the top B&Bs by BedandBreakfast.com in 2013, this secluded waterfront retreat features six rooms, an outdoor fire pit, and an eco-friendly swimming pool. The Inn at Tabbs Creek is situated just miles away from the beach, which will satisfy couples who enjoy watching sunsets near the ocean. Guests can wake up to enjoy locally roasted organic coffee and a gourmet breakfast before booking one of several romantic cruises. Couples who want a romantic getaway on a budget can expect to pay between $125 to $255 per night. 3. Chestnut Hill Bed and Breakfast in Orange The Chestnut Hill Bed and Breakfast resides in a historic home originally built in 1860 and was named after the chestnut trees that once surrounded its property. This six-room B&B offers present-day amenities that include WiFi Internet and HD flat-screen televisions so guests can appreciate the past without having to sacrifice comfort offered by the present. The innkeepers host an evening of complimentary wine and cheese tasting before guests head to dinner at one of several local restaurants in Orange. The nightly rate at Chestnut Hill ranges between $179 and $295. 4. The Inn at Riverbend in Pearisburg Once named the most romantic B&B resort by BedandBreakfast.com, The Inn at Riverbend is a mountain getaway ideal for couples interested in outdoor activities such as hiking, golf, fishing, rafting, and kayaking. Guests at this seven-room B&B can wake up to freshly brewed coffee and a complimentary gourmet breakfast to begin the day before heading off to enjoy the many available outdoor activities. Located just two miles from the Appalachian Trail, The Inn at Riverbend charges a nightly rate that ranges from $190 to $264. The state of Virginia offers a wealth of romantic B&B resorts that can satisfy couples of any age, with any interests. Consider going for a long, fun drive with your partner to the B&B of your choice so the two of you can enjoy quality time together. Image via Pixabay