Whether you get lost in an e-reader, your smartphone, or a good old-fashioned hard-cover, the benefits of reading remain the same. Here are three reasons to always keep reading a part of your daily routine.

1. Reading reduces stress.
Studies report that reading is a more effective means of stress relief than listening to music, going for a walk, playing video games, or sipping tea. Pick up your favorite engrossing novel, enjoy some peace and quiet, and get lost in the story weaved by your favorite author.

2. Reading keeps your brain in shape.
Consider reading a form of exercise for your brain. A person's participation in creative activities, like reading, while young has been shown to slow cognitive decline later in life. Such activities may even ward off Alzheimer's disease.

3. Reading is free entertainment.
A visit to your local library can provide you with several hours of free entertainment. Compare this to the price of a movie or amusement park ticket, and your wallet will thank you.

Benefits of Reading: Getting Smart, Thin, Healthy, Happy [Reader's Digest]
7 Unconventional Reasons Why You Absolutely Should Be Reading Books [Huff Post]
10 Benefits of Reading: Why You Should Read Every Day [Lifehack]

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/jafsegal

The next time you have a cupcake craving, don't settle for store-bought varieties when you can get gourmet at Crave Cupcakes in Uptown. Only superior ingredients make their way into Crave's decadent cupcakes, like seasonal fruit, local Texas dairy, and European chocolate.

Come in and select from rotating daily flavors, like macadamia nut, red velvet, key lime, and carrot, or choose a more mysterious flavor, like hummingbird or candy bar. Your favorite flavors can be pre-ordered to ensure you get exactly what you want before they run out. You can also request a customized decoration for these special orders.

Crave bakes cupcakes frequently throughout the day to ensure freshness. These bite sized cakes are a great choice for weddings, birthdays, and other special moments.

Crave Cupcakes
1151-06 Uptown Park Boulevard
Houston, TX 77056
(713) 622-7283
https://www.cravecupcakes.com/
http://www.yelp.com/biz/crave-cupcakes-houston

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr/lamantin

Wishing everyone a happy and healthy 2014!