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Keeping your house clean is probably something you do on a regular basis, but when it comes to keeping your car clean, you might not do it as frequently. Cleaning your car is something that should be part of your cleaning routine, although we know it can be challenging. Here are some tips that will help make this chore an easier one. Washing the Exterior Regularly washing your car will not only make it look nice but also extend the life of your paint job. Start by making sure it isn't hot from driving or sitting in the sun; you can park it in the shade if necessary. You'll want to gather your supplies, such as buckets, soap, a soft cloth, and a brush. Fill one bucket with soapy water and the other with clean water, and then proceed to rinse your entire car with water. Once you have rinsed it, you can begin to wash it with the brush. Work in small areas, starting at the top of the car, first washing, then rinsing, and repeating these steps until you have scrubbed the entire surface. Wash the tires last, as they get the dirtiest and will likely make your water and cloth unusable after using them on this part of your car. When you're done, dry the car with a soft towel to prevent water spots. Deep Clean the Interior There are several things you'll need to do to really get the inside of your car looking like new: Remove trash and other unused items Wipe down surfaces Vacuum Shampoo the upholstery Grab a trash bag and start removing any built-up trash or items that have made their way into your car that don't belong there. After removing everything you can, you'll be able to really start cleaning. You'll need cloths for wiping surfaces, as well as a toothbrush, cotton swabs, and car cleaner. Just as with the outside, you want to start with the upper surfaces and work your way down. Wipe the dashboard, the steering wheel, the door panels, and every other surface you can see. Use the toothbrush and cotton swabs to get in the vents and other nooks and crannies you can't wipe with a cloth. The toothbrush is also a good tool for scrubbing the upholstery. When you finish wiping everything down, you can vacuum the carpets and floor mats. Make sure you use a vacuum with good suction so that it cleans all that deep down dirt. The final step is to shampoo the upholstery and get your seats looking brand-new again. Do the Windows Use window cleaner to really get your windshield clean. You'll want to clean it both inside and out to ensure you have the best visibility when you're on the road. Take some time to wipe down your windshield wipers too. This will prevent things that get stuck in the wipers from scratching your windshield. It's not just the windshield that needs to be cleaned, though, so make sure you get the side windows and rear window as well. Cleaning your car will make your drive more comfortable and relaxing. Use these tips to help you take on this task and get the job done. Image via Pixabay

Making a homemade meal in your own kitchen is great, but sometimes, you just want someone else to do the cooking (and the cleaning up). Luckily, there are many restaurants in Kingsport, Tennessee, that make a tasty meal the whole family will love. The next time you want to go out for dinner, check out some of our favorite places. Giuseppe's Italian Restaurant Serving up made-to-order Italian cuisine since 1987, you'll find that Giuseppe's Italian Restaurant is one of Kingsport's premiere dining locations. Experience the warm and friendly atmosphere where you'll enjoy your dinner that's made with only the freshest ingredients. Try the homemade pasta — you can get it in a variety of dishes, such as the fettuccine Alfredo or the linguine with clam sauce. Other delicious entrees you're sure to love include gnocchi Bolognese, lobster ravioli, and Italian sausage and peppers, which are all served with garlic bread and either soup or salad. The menu doesn't stop there. You can also get sandwiches, steaks, pizza, and a calzone or stromboli. The restaurant offers catering and delivery, so you can enjoy the food no matter where you are. Stir Fry Cafe If you want to try something new for dinner, check out Stir Fry Cafe. This Asian fusion restaurant is located right in downtown Kingsport and provides a welcoming environment for all its guests. Stir Fry Cafe takes reservations, so you can be sure to get a table for your party. Stop in for the daily specials, such as half-off sushi on Wednesdays and $1 off signature cocktails on Fridays. Enjoy one of the savory appetizers to get your mouth watering. Choose from items such as edamame, herb-crusted lamb pops, and crab rangoon. When you finish your appetizer, you can move on to your main course. If you like sushi, you can get a variety of different rolls. Our favorites are the dragon roll and the spider roll. For those who prefer something else, you can choose from stir-fry dishes, noodle dishes, burgers, tacos, and so much more. This place has something for everyone. Riverfront Seafood Company Have your dinner right on the river when you dine at the Riverfront Seafood Company. This elegant restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, so you can eat wherever strikes your fancy. If you don't like seafood, don't let that deter you from eating here. The menu has a variety of items that don't include seafood. Pair your main course with one of the delicious soups or fresh salads. All the soups and dressings are made in-house, so they're sure to please. Non-seafood menu items include hickory chicken, grilled pork chops, pasta, muffaletta pizza, and more. Seafood selections include large Gulf shrimp, farm-raised trout, and fried Alaskan whitefish, among others. There's also a kids' menu, as well as and plenty of dessert options to finish off your meal. The next time you want to enjoy a delicious dinner that you don't have to prepare yourself, stop in at one of these fabulous locations. They have great food, friendly service, and provide a relaxing atmosphere. Image via Pixabay

Shopping for a new car is an exciting time, although picking the right model for your lifestyle can be a challenge. If you're comparing the Corolla and Camry from the Toyota lineup, take a look at a few of the key differences to help you make a more informed decision. Size One of the key differences between the Toyota Corolla and the Toyota Camry is the size. The Corolla is a compact sedan, while the Camry is a midsize. The length of the Camry is between 192 and 194 inches, while the Corolla checks in at 182 inches in length. You'll mainly notice this size difference in the rear seat, as the Camry provides more space for taller passengers or bulkier child car seats. In fact, the Camry has about 3.2 inches in legroom in the rear over the Corolla. Both sedans can seat five. The cargo volume also differs, with the Camry offering 15.1 cubic feet and the Corolla offering 13.1, so if you have a lot of bulky or large items to transport, the Camry is more likely to give you the needed space. Cabin Features The latest models of both sedan options come with appealing new features. The Camry offers a more extensive range of tech features than the Corolla, although both feature a 7-inch touch screen for the infotainment system and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration. With the Camry, you also get Android Auto as a standard feature, which is currently not available on the Corolla. If you want a more luxurious cabin, upgrade with features available on either model, such as leather upholstery, a premium JBL audio system, and a wireless charging pad. With the Camry, a cold weather package is available, which includes heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated side mirrors. Safety Equipment Both the Corolla and the Camry come equipped with Toyota's Safety Sense package, which includes forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking, a traffic sign reader, dynamic radar cruise control, and lane departure warning with steering assist. Additional options on the Camry include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic high beams, and rear automatic braking. Power and Performance Beneath the hood of most Camry models is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 184 pound-feet of torque and 203 horsepower. An optional 3.5-liter V-6 unit can be had on the XSE and XLE, which makes 267 pound-feet of torque and 301 horsepower. With both engines, an eight-speed automatic transmission is standard. The Corolla has a standard 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, rating at 126 pound-feet of torque and 139 horsepower, while a 2.0-liter four-cylinder is available as an upgrade. This unit pumps out 151 pound-feet of torque and 169 horsepower. These engines both feature a continuously variable transmission, although you can get a six-speed manual. At Toyota of Kingsport, you can test drive the latest Camry and Corolla models to better determine which vehicle will best fit with your lifestyle and needs. We have a wide selection of both vehicles available, ready for you to take out for a drive. Image via DealerOn

If you're looking for a fun trip to take from Kingsport, Tennessee, with your kids, check out some of these popular day trips. Each offers easy access from Kingsport, along with interesting things to do and see for all ages. Gray Gray is located about 15 miles from Kingsport, so it's an accessible spot for locals. At the Gray Fossil Site, you can learn more about dinosaurs. The fossil site is actually an active dig site featuring fossils from the Pliocene era. Scientists who have worked on the site believe that it formed when an underground limestone cave collapsed, creating a sinkhole that left fossil deposits dating back more than 5 million years. The Natural History Museum features various animals on display, including saber-toothed cats, camel without humps, semi-aquatic pot-bellied rhinos, and shovel-tusked elephants. Both the museum and dig site are part of the Hands On! Discovery Center, an interactive museum that encourages children to learn through hands-on experiences. Jonesborough In Jonesborough, you and your family can spend the day at Wetlands Waterpark. The park is about 28 miles from Kingsport and opens each May, remaining open until the end of the summer. This expansive outdoor water park features several fiberglass flume slides, water bubblers, a rain tree, tumble buckets, a zero-depth wading area, and slides for kids. Covered pavilions, a sand volleyball court, lounge chairs, and a covered dining area are also available to guests. Chuckey If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of your busy life, book a campsite at Pebble Mountain Family Campground, located in Chuckey. The campground is 42 miles from Kingsport and provides a quiet retreat for families. It sits just outside the Cherokee National Forest, offering access to the trails and natural surroundings within the park. Dogs are welcome at this campsite as well. You can enjoy meals with the hosts on specific days. Mosheim The Wandering Llamas offers a delightful and unique adventure for families in the area. Located in Mosheim, this attraction allows visitors to take day hikes with a friendly pack of llamas in the Smoky Mountains. You'll have to travel about 50 miles to get there, but it's well worth the trip. You and your family members will be on foot, while the llamas will carry the items you need on your hike in special backpacks. During the hike, you'll also be able to enjoy stunning views of the natural surroundings and take a few photos with the beloved llamas. Harrogate Learn more about American history at the Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum, located in Harrogate. This spot is 80 miles from Kingsport, sitting on the campus of Lincoln Memorial University. It houses one of the top private collections of items dating back to the Civil War and Lincoln's presidency, including artifacts, rare books, photos, and manuscripts. Plan a fun day trip with your family to explore the area around Kingsport. No matter what you're in the mood to do, you can easily find something unique and enjoyable. Image via Pixabay

The new 2020 Toyota Avalon is definitely one of the most popular vehicles in the Toyota lineup, and for a good reason. It provides drivers with a reliable vehicle that is fuel-efficient, filled with technology and convenience features, and safe on any type of roadway. Want to see why the new Toyota Avalon is a must-buy for the season? Check out some of its most popular features. Lots of Space for Passengers and Cargo The interior of the Avalon seats five passengers comfortable in both the front and the back seats. Ample head and legroom make it an ideal vehicle for long road trips, and the eight-way adjustable front seats allow you to truly customize your comfort. In addition to ample passenger space, there is plenty of cargo space to meet your needs. You will find that the vehicle has 16 cubic feet of trunk space, which puts it in line with most competitors, and you can fit in longer items by taking advantage of the 60/40 rear split seats. Power and Performance The new 2020 Toyota has ample power to help you keep up with and navigate through traffic to get you where you need to go. The vehicle is powered by a V-6 engine that outputs 301 horsepower and provides form brisk acceleration. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which allows for smooth shifting and an overall comfortable ride. With the touring model, you will enjoy adaptive suspension, which can allow for an even smoother ride along rough roads. Top Drivers' Assistance Features The Avalon comes equipped with some of the industry's top safety features to help prevent you from having an accident and protecting you in the event that an accident occurs. All trims come standard with a rearview backup camera, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, automatic high beams, and LED headlights. Some trim levels will include additional safety features, such as pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. You can also maximize your vehicle's protection by opting for available features, such as a surround-view camera, rear cross-traffic braking, rear parking sensors, and a heads-up display. Sought After Technology and Convenience Features The Avalon does not only stay on top of the latest technology when it comes to safety but also when it comes to comfort and convenience. The Avalon features Apple CarPlay, which will allow you to stay connected with your smartphone while keeping your eyes on the road. It also features Amazon Alexa, which allows you to use voice control throughout your car and remain hands-free at all times. Other convenience and entertainment features include a Wi-Fi hot spot, HD radio, on-screen menus, push-button start, and dual-zone automatic climate control. If music is your passion, you can upgrade to the 14-speaker JBL stereo, which will provide you with a surround sound and clarity you will never forget. Want to find out why the 2020 Toyota Avalon is one of the most popular vehicles in the lineup for yourself? Stop into the dealership to take one out for a test drive today. Image via DealerOn

Pizza is one of the classic eats that many people enjoy. When the craving strikes for this Italian favorite, check out a few of the top pizza joints offering flavorful pies in Kingsport, Tennessee. Chef's Pizzeria Chef's Pizzeria has been a staple in Kingsport since it opened its doors in 1991. It is located in the heart of downtown, offering indoor and outdoor seating, takeout, and delivery. This family-owned and operated eatery serves a wide range of pizza options, along with subs, calzones, salads, and other delicious menu options. You can start your meal with an order of wings, cheese or garlic bread, nachos, or chicken tenders served with cheddar munchers. Build your own pizza, topped with traditional options or those that are out of the ordinary, such as mandarin oranges, jalapenos, or broccoli, or choose from the specialty options. A few of the favorites include the "Bacon Cheeseburger," topped with beef, bacon, red onions, and two types of cheese, and the "Bar-B-Q Pork," which features pulled pork, red onions, BBQ sauce, and mozzarella. This pizza joint is also home of the "Big Chef," a pizza cut into 36 squares. Fox's Pizza Den Whether you want to have pizza delivered or pick it up yourself, you can enjoy a tasty option from Fox's Pizza Den. The appetizer menu includes unique options, such as pepperoni sticks served with award-winning marina and baked, seasoned potato wedges, as well as the classics. Some of the gourmet pizza options include the "Buffalo Chicken," piled high with grilled chicken breast, cheese, Texas Pete hot sauce, and creamy ranch, and the "Six Cheese,"  which has a blend of mozzarella, Monterey jack, Romano, cheddar, parmesan, and feta cheeses. You can also build your own pie or enjoy one of the stromboli. These are packed with delicious fillings and topped with garlic butter and a special parmesan seasoning. Additional menu options include salads, hoagies, pasta, wings, and desserts. If you have a sweet tooth, try the cinnamon sticks, which are made with 16 sticks of fresh-baked pizza dough topped with cinnamon sugar and butter and served with vanilla icing. Johnny Brusco's Pizza If you're craving New York-style pizza, pick up a pie from Johnny Brusco's Pizza. This joint has several locations in Alabama, Arkansas, North Carolina, Kentucky, and Florida, in addition to Kingsport. Johnny's bruschetta is one of the favorite starters, which features toasted garlic bread topped with garlic, parmesan, and diced tomatoes and drizzled with balsamic glaze. Every pizza option at this spot features a hand-tossed thin crust. You can also opt for cauliflower or gluten-free pizza crust to accommodate your dietary needs. Stop in for lunch to enjoy one of the specials, such as a calzone with two toppings, two one-topping slices, a stromboli, a sub or wrap, or a garden salad, each of which comes with a drink. Pizza is plentiful in Kingsport, and these pizzerias offer some of the best pie in the city. When the craving hits for tasty Italian fare, try out one of these locations. Image via Pixabay

If you're in the market for a new sedan, there's never been a better time to buy, and the new 2020 Corolla is a great option. Corolla has been a household name for decades, and the newest model has more to offer than ever before. Get to know the 2020 Corolla and discover all the special features and unique experiences it can offer you. Performance Driving the Corolla is more exciting than ever thanks to its available 2-liter Dynamic Force Engine. This master-crafted design offers 169 horsepower paired with a Dynamic-Shift Continuously Variable Transmission. Of course, the standard 1.8-liter four-cylinder is impressive as well, with its 139 horsepower and intelligent Dual Variable Valve Timing. Taking advantage of all the power the new Corolla offers is easy. You can opt for mounted paddle shifters that let you switch gears without ever having to let go of the wheel. They're on each side of the wheel as well, so it won't matter which hand you prefer. You can also have your Corolla equipped with Sport Mode, which enhances performance by adjusting the engine control unit and simulated shift points. Technology No modern sedan would be complete without some of the latest technology, and the Corolla certainly doesn't disappoint in that regard. Apple CarPlay comes standard, meaning you can easily connect your iPhone to your Corolla to gain access to some of your favorite apps. You also have the ability to make calls and send messages without taking your hands off the wheel using Siri Eyes Free. The enhanced technology features are even more impressive and can take advantage of other products you may have. The new Corolla is compatible with Amazon Alexa, for example, allowing you to control smart home devices from your car. With the Remote Connect app, you can even control aspects of your Corolla from your phone, including the door locks and the engine start and stop functions. Safety One of the most important factors in any vehicle is safety, and Toyota has taken it to the next level with the new Corolla. Every 2020 Corolla model comes equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite of driver assistance features. This includes amenities like Automatic High Beams, but that's just the beginning. Additional safety features included in the suite are truly state of the art. One of the most popular is the Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection. This system constantly scans the area ahead for potential collisions, and if one is detected — whether it be with another car or a pedestrian — the brakes will be applied automatically. You can also enjoy Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist and Road Edge Detection. This system detects road markers and will automatically correct your steering should you edge out of your lane without signaling. If you're looking to get your hands on the new 2020 Corolla, Toyota of Kingsport has got you covered. Our friendly team is always happy to set up a test drive for you. Check out our new inventory today to discover the best Toyota vehicle for your needs. Image via DealerOn

We live in a noisy, fast-paced, always-on world. That makes a good old-fashioned camping trip more attractive than ever before. Discover five of the best camping spots near Kingsport to find the ideal spot to get away from it all and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature. Warriors' Path State Park Warriors' Path State Park has plenty of space surrounded by trees, grass, and natural wonders. Better yet, it's a high-end campground with 134 campsites, each of which is equipped with tables and grills. Over 90 of them offer electricity and water, so you can even enjoy modern conveniences. You'll find bathhouses with hot showers and bathrooms, and you can even buy wood for your campfire. Bristol/Kingsport KOA If you'd like to spend your time in a traditional quiet cabin instead of pitching a tent, you might enjoy a cozy weekend away at Bristol/Kingsport KOA. Not only does this great location offer serene and lush forested surroundings, but there's also plenty of group fun to be had, from barrel train rides and crafting activities to games and tournaments, and even weekly movie get-togethers with popcorn. This is an award-winning campground that offers cabins for a day, a week, or even a month. Rocky Top Campground Rocky Top Campground & RV Park is an adult-oriented campground where you can be certain to enjoy peace and quiet surrounded by shade trees and brilliant mountain views. In addition to traditional camping, the area offers 35 RV sites with full hookup, including Wi-Fi and cable TV, so you'll be able to enjoy modern amenities while relaxing in a serene country setting. In addition, there are cabins available that can sleep between two and four adults. Lakeshore RV Park A bit further out, Lakeshore RV Park is less than 2 hours southwest of Kingsport, and offers plenty of amenities for those who want to gear up their camper and take a trip. Pets are welcome here, and there are full electrical hookups with Wi-Fi access. Full cellular network connectivity is available, so you won't have to worry about losing contact with your loved ones. There are also sites here for traditional tent camping if you want to really rough it. Natural Tunnel State Park Natural Tunnel State Park offers a variety of camping options, from traditional tent locations to full cabins, that are rented by the week, although shorter stays are available depending on how far out you book your visit and what time of year it is. The cabins here are featured with complete kitchens including a stove, fridge, and dishes. They're available in two-, three-, or even six-bedroom layouts, though there's only one single six-bedroom lodge so be sure to book in advance. Pets are welcome, and there's a swimming pool for common use by campers at the park. This location offers stunning mountain views and hiking trails as well. Of course, you'll need a way to get to these campsites. For that, shop our full inventory of Toyota cars, trucks, and SUVs available at Toyota of Kingsport, and stop by our showroom today to take a test drive and find your next dream vehicle. Image via Pixabay

For 2020, Toyota brought back the legendary Supra as a new sport model in its lineup. The spectacular sport coupe not only boasts incredible performance, but it also has a long list of excellent modern features for comfort and convenience. Take a look at the new 2020 Toyota Supra and find out what makes this car so special. Engine and Power The Supra comes with a 3.0-liter twin-scroll turbocharged inline-six engine with rear-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The engine produces 335 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque, which gives it a lightning-fast acceleration of 0-60 mph in 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph. In addition to the Supra's incredible speed, it has the road manners for daily driving with accurate steering and exceptional maneuverability. Performance and Driving Dynamics To back up its considerable power, the Supra was designed with an ideal weight balance in strategic areas to ensure the maximum in agility and maneuverability. The engine and transmission are dropped, giving the car a lower center of gravity for optimal handling. The ultra wide track width of 1,850 mm is combined with a calculated wheelbase for a combination of high-speed comfort, remarkable athleticism, and constant communication between the driver and the road. To enhance the driving dynamics even further, the Supra has an adaptive variable suspension that takes feedback from the road and adjusts the ride quality. Interior Space and Comfort Inside, the 2020 Toyota Supra has a comfortable, functional cockpit that provides ample space for the driver and passenger. The deeply bolstered sport seats are designed to keep you firmly planted as you cruise winding and twisting roads, and nearly every surface is addressed with fine details. Leather trim and cloth upholstery with heating are standard. The gauge pod has an 8.8-inch high resolution display with a three-dimensional tachometer that shows engine speed, suggested gear, and the current gear selection. In the trunk, the Supra provides over 10 cubic feet of storage space, which is enough for your track gear or weekend luggage. Technology The Supra Connect suite offers intuitive tech features like automatic emergency calling, real-time traffic alerts, and Apple CarPlay, which lets you pair your smartphone to the car's onboard system for music, calls, texts, and more. The Supra comes with the Supra Command dial, which accesses key multimedia features. Using a touch-sensitive surface, you can use your fingers to zoom or "write" in address information for the navigation system, much like a smartphone. There are also physical knobs and dials for redundant functions for more convenience. Some other features include a head-up display and wireless smartphone charging. Safety Features Safety is important for a vehicle that's designed for track performance. The Supra offers a host of safety features and driver aids to keep you aware and protected on the road, such as automated emergency braking. Other features are available, including adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and automatic high beam headlamps. Back for 2020, the renowned Supra is a hot sports car that's poised to dominate the class. Whether on the road or the track, nothing beats the exhilarating feeling of cruising in a Supra. Image via DealerOn

Looking for the best pick-me-up in the Kingsport area? Finding a great cup of coffee makes any day just a little bit better. If you are a caffeine junkie, or someone who just appreciates a great cup of coffee every now and then, these are the spots for you. That coffee shop atmosphere and a perfectly brewed cup is what's in store for you when you get to any one of these coffee shops. The Mustard Seed Cafe The Mustard Seed Cafe is known for having some of the best coffee in Kingsport. They also offer a great lunch menu. The Mustard Seed Cafe is a quaint little sandwich shop in the heard of downtown Kingsport. They have a nice selection of sandwiches, salads and incredible coffee. The ambiance is cool and relaxed, perfect for taking a break throughout your busy day. Renewed Brew Coffee Company This coffee shop is another great choice when looking around Kingsport. They make exceptional coffee, and the cafe is the perfect place to relax while getting your caffeine kick. They make delicious lattes, and their coffee is available for purchase to take home and brew at home. The next time you are out around town and find yourself dragging, stop into Renewed Brew Coffee Company. They will set you up to take on the rest of your day. Hibbert-Davis Urban Brews Hibbert-Davis Urban Brews is an all organic, fair trade, single-origin coffee brewer. They take pride in serving only the best beans, and the best ambiance. They are a great cafe offering fresh pastries and snacks, along with incredible coffee and teas. They make tasty sandwiches, and also offer ice cream, wine, and beer. The coffee shop puts off an amazing vibe, capturing the perfect energy to get you feeling restored and ready to handle your day. The Nutty Java The Nutty Java is another good choice for a coffee shop in Kingsport. Pastries go great with coffee, and the Nutty Java makes both perfectly. This place is nice and relaxing, and the staff is very friendly. They offer great desserts and snacks, and are worth a visit if you are feeling a need for a place to relax and have a fresh cup of Joe. The Bagel Exchange The next spot to check out when looking for the best coffee shop is The Bagel Exchange. Aside from having great bagels and sandwiches, they also have incredible coffee. This little shop is right in the heart of Kingsport and is a great place to stop to get a quick bite, relax, and enjoy a quality cup of coffee or tea. The next time you are looking for a place to take your coffee break and grab a snack, stop by The Bagel Exchange. With all of the options available it is easy to find somewhere that serves the best coffee in Kingsport. If you are feeling a little sluggish and need a good pick-me-up, stop into one of these great coffee shops and get yourself a cup of coffee. Image via Pixabay

When you're planning a road trip during the winter months, there are a few key things to consider before you and the family hop in the car. Winter road trips bring on some additional risk, and it's important you prepare for the harsh conditions of the road during this period. Here are our best tips for traveling safe during this period. Check Your Tires For safe travel, ensure you have a good tire tread and that the tire pressure is where it should be. During cold weather, your tire pressure will drop with the cold temperatures, so it is crucial to check it before you leave. You may also want to consider getting winter tires if you are going to be doing a lot of driving in that season. Having the right tires and knowing they are in good shape and full of air is an integral part of safe driving, even more critical when roads are unpleasant. Pack a Winter Safety Kit When taking a road trip, it's good to have a safety kit; emergencies happen, and it never hurts to be prepared. If you are taking a road trip during winter, add a few things to that kit. Blankets and tools for digging out a stuck car are a must-have. We recommend you have a shovel and keep some de-icer close by in case you get stuck. Sometimes your trunk, doors, or hood can get frozen shut, and having deicer will make your life a lot easier. In addition, you should have a safety kit year-round. It's also a good idea to have first aid, portable power banks, flairs, non-perishable food and water, and jumper cables to ensure you are ready when things get tough, especially with winter's dangerous driving conditions. Research your Route Many roads in hilly terrain are vulnerable to heavy snowfall. As a result, they usually end up getting closed down when it snows heavily. When mountains get icy and covered in snow, conditions can become unfit for driving rather quickly. So, before embarking on a trip, confirm if you are heading into a mountainous region. You should know the type of terrain and find the best route ahead of time to make sure you don't end up getting stuck or delayed for an important event. Get Your Vehicle Serviced Before heading out on your trip, take your vehicle in for service. This is an essential part of any road trip. Winter driving takes an even bigger toll on your car, so it's a good idea to let a mechanic take a look at everything before getting on the road. This can help in catching potential issues before your journey. Top off Your Fluids Ensure all your fluids are topped off, including your windshield washer fluid. Lots of salt and debris can load up on your windshield during winter driving, and you will run out of these vital fluids quickly unless you topped them off before hitting the road. Knowing your route and making sure your vehicle is in tip-top shape are all critical for a safe road trip this coming winter. These tips will help arrive safely and happily at your destination this winter. Image via DealerOn

Looking to find a good book? There are some amazing bookstore options in and around Kingsport to provide you with a nice book or two. If you are looking for a new or pre-owned, or want to trade-in your old books for store credit, here are our picks for the best bookstores in Kingsport. I Love Books Bookstore I Love Books is a great little bookstore in Kingsport. This store has a great variety of books and an assortment of teas, teapots and more. Located in Fort Henry Mall, I Love Books is a perfect bookstore to browse and find something that interests you. Books A Million Books A Million is a prominent national bookstore chain. Its Kingsport branch is an excellent place to check out some new books and magazines, and you can grab a cup of coffee in the in-store coffee shop. The staff is friendly, and if they don't have something in stock, they are happy to order it for you. This store is clean, and it is a great place to check out next time you are looking for a new book. Bubba's Book Swap Residents and visitors who have stopped by Bubba's Book Swap have a verdict: this is a fantastic place to find a great selection of new and used books. This store offers a friendly discount on most books, and they will buy and trade for books you are done with. They have a massive inventory available for you to browse on their website. Check them out next time you are looking for a book, DVD, or CD. Mr K's Used Books Over in Johnson City — just outside of Kingsport — is Mr K's Used Books & CDs. They have a great assortment of books, movies, CDs, and more. This store will also buy your old books. Although the store's inventory is constantly updated, if they don't have what you are looking for, they are happy to order it for you. Barnes & Noble Booksellers Barns & Noble Booksellers is another famed national bookstore located in Johnson City. They have a huge selection of books, music, and movies, and magazines. The staff is always friendly, and the atmosphere is nice and relaxed. There is plenty of stuff to browse and places to sit, relax, and check out new books. Books-n-things A worthy addition to this list, Books-n-things is sited just outside of town in Blountville. This bookstore sells mostly used and collectors' books. They carry a large variety of genres, so anyone will be able to find the perfect book. Also, they sell gifts, music, movies, and games. The owner is very friendly, helpful, and will answer just about any question you have about something in her store. If you are ready to pick up a new book to get into, go check out one of these great bookstores. They all have amazing selections and offer a great space to spend the afternoon browsing the inventory. You never know what you might find. But you will surely find something you like. Image via Pixabay