Work Schedules That Support a Flexible Working Lifestyle

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Hi lovelies,

Today’s employees have become ever demanding for a flexible working plan that allows them to "work and play" at the same time in a day or week. The "smart work style" has been on the rise since the advent of technology. Whether working from home to working in pairs, a flexible working lifestyle offers most employees the needed space for work productivity.

Work schedules of employees range from full-time to part-time and much more. In all of these schedules, employees are expected to put up work that results in productivity and not necessarily to work hard.

In this post, you will find work schedules that aid a flexible working lifestyle for employees. Employers of labor can adopt any of these work schedules to aid productivity at the workplace.

Alternative Shifts
Having employees work long hours in the day has been shown to reduce work productivity and a positive attitude to work on several occasions.

Shift work is a technique that functions in organizations that carry on business seven days a week and 24 hours a day. In this work style, an employee works a few times a day and a few days in the week, giving him time to attend to other issues. For instance, James works from 8 am to 8 pm every Monday, Tuesday, and Friday; on Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, Williams takes over James's shift from 8 pm to 8 am.

Shift work allows employees to rest a good part of the week and is a suitable work schedule that provides a flexible lifestyle.

Job Sharing
Job sharing has been in vogue as far back as creation. Teamwork is the ideal picture every employer paints for their clients and customers. There has been an increased intake of persons who work effectively with teams than those who don’t. Also, over a billion dollars have been invested over the years by employers and employees as a whole to provide proper training for teamwork and leadership. 

Job sharing has its ups and downs for employees. An advantage is job sharing offers workers a flexible lifestyle—the idea of having a partner who could work on a job while you deal with the other. This way, the job will be completed quickly. The disadvantage is job sharing might lead to a clash of interests when trying to get a job done; this, in turn, can slow work productivity in the long and short run.

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Working from Home
Perhaps the newest work schedule option and the most flexible. Working from home involves providing value to the company while at the comfort of your home.

Research has shown that over 80% of employees prefer the work from home option to any other work schedule.

Working from home offers the best flexibility; you can pick up your child from school, make dinner, watch late-night movies and still take that call from your boss, seal that deal with the client, get the goods delivered to the customer, and so much more.

However, working from home has its challenges, one of which is the lack of work resources to perform effectively. This challenge is mostly associated with professionals.

Part-Time Job
Part-time jobs also offer a flexible working schedule for employees. The part-time job is similar to the alternative shift—some have even mistaken one for the other.

There are different definitions or specifications for part-time jobs, with business experts calculating various types of work hours for the job. But a generally accepted definition by the business world is a job where a worker is made to work less than 30 hours a week. This differentiates the part-time job from the alternative shift job. 

This work schedule option is the most adopted by a majority of employers today.

Temporary employee
The temporary employee is hired to help the employer fill vacant roles without hiring a full-time employee. 

Although the employee doesn't work as a full staff, they are a part of the organization. Since the temporary employee isn't a permanent staff, this working schedule gives employees the flexibility to attend to other issues.

The temporary employee is similar to the part-time employee and the alternative shift employee. One of the differences is; while in the case of the part-time, the temporary employee has work times exceeding 30 minutes, in the case of alternative shift, the temporary employee doesn’t have another worker who replaces the employee in a shift. 

In Summary
Work schedules with more flexibility have been the vogue since the start of the 21st century. The benefits are evident in the output derived from employees when one of these flexible work styles is adopted.

Staying Healthy Behind The Wheel - What You Should Know

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Hi lovelies,

Staying healthy behind the wheel is something everybody with a driver’s license should think about, whether they drive a lot or not. Of course, the more you drive, the more important this becomes! It’s all too easy to let your health fall by the wayside when you find yourself on the road constantly, but taking a few precautions can make a huge difference to your health in the long run. Read on for what you should know:

Make Sure Your Driving Position is Right For You
Your driving position could potentially have a long-term effect on your health, especially if it’s incorrect and uncomfortable. Make sure you alter your driving position and find the perfect one for you so you don’t end up with any long term back issues. You shouldn’t have any space between your back and the seat, especially your lower back, and you should be able to rest your head and drive comfortably. 

Check Your Route and Other Elements of The Drive Beforehand 
Don’t just drive out and forget to check your route. You won’t know if there are any diversions or blockages otherwise, and you’ll end up frustrated. Make sure you check the weather, too, as this could impact how long it takes you to arrive at your destination. 

Don't Touch Your Phone
Once you are in the car, don’t touch your phone! If you use it as a sat nav, set it up for that so you don’t need to touch it at all before you set off. Using your phone to listen to music is fine, but you shouldn’t be taking your eyes off the road to look at notifications or message anybody - even in traffic. Not only is it dangerous, you could get in big trouble. If you don’t know whether you can resist the temptation, it might be a good idea to put your phone in your glovebox. 

Know What To Do In The Event of an Accident 
Having an idea of what to do and who to call in the event of an accident is super important. Make sure you have numbers noted down and documents in an accessible folder, even if it’s on your phone. Do you have breakdown cover, or will you call your insurance? Could a family member help you? Remember, before you get a rental car you should open a claim first. If you were involved in an accident this often means calling the correct authorities, taking pictures of the scene, and making sure you take other precautions. 

Try To Eat Nutritious Food 
Make sure you try to eat nutritious food on the road. This could mean preparing some food and keeping it in a cooler bag, or simply knowing how to read nutritional labels so you can buy the best thing from a rest stop. Stay hydrated, too, as this will give you energy. 

Wear Sunscreen 
Sun can damage skin even through car windows - and often mostly on the one side of your face by the window! Apply sunscreen liberally before setting out on any journey, even if the sun isn't out. 

8 Questions to Ask Yourself When You’re Thinking of Starting a Family

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Hi lovelies,

Deciding to start a family is a major step in your life and not one you’ll want to take lightly. Choosing to have children is a life-long commitment, so it’s vital to ensure you’re in the right place – physically, emotionally, and practically.

While family members, friends, and society as a whole may be encouraging you to have children, deciding to start a family is something that only you and your partner have a say in. With this in mind, take a look at the eight questions to ask yourself when you’re thinking of starting a family:

1. Is Your Relationship Strong?

If you’re choosing to have children with your partner, you’ll want to ensure your relationship is ready for the extra pressure it will be under. Sometimes, people assume that having a baby will repair a relationship, but this is rarely the case. Caring for a newborn is tough and puts anyone under strain, which means relationship problems are likely to be amplified when you become parents.

However, if you connect well with one another, understand each other’s needs, can imagine a long-term future with them, and firmly believe your partner will be a good parent, there’s a good chance your relationship will be strong enough to weather the storm.

2. How Will You Have Children?

Many couples choose to conceive naturally, but this isn’t the only way to have a baby. Artificial insemination, in vitro fertilization, and adoption are just some of the other options out there. If either you or your partner has health issues that will make it difficult to conceive naturally, for example, you may choose to have fertility treatment. Alternatively, if you want to love and raise a child who is in need of a loving home environment, adoption might be your preferred choice. 

3. Why Now?

If you’re suddenly feeling the urge to have children, it’s important to understand your motivations. Do you want a baby because you feel practically and emotionally ready or are other factors affecting your decision? Some women feel rushed into having children because they’re getting older, for example, but the egg freezing process can help to give you more time to start a family. By identifying and understanding why you want to start a family, you can begin to determine whether you feel ready to become a parent.

4. What Will Happen to Your Career?

If you’re currently working, you may wish to take an extended break when you have a child. Maternity and paternity benefits can vary from company to company, state to state, and country to country so it’s important to identify exactly what you’re entitled to. Furthermore, you’ll want to consider whether you’re willing to forego the potential promotion opportunities which may come your way in the next 12-18 months.

Taking a break at the right time can make it easier to return to work when the time comes if you choose to. This can have a major impact on your family’s future, so choosing the right time to take a career break is a critical point to take into consideration.

5. Are You Financially Ready?

Having children is expensive, no matter how old they get. If your income isn’t secure, you may be worried about how you’ll fund essential costs when a baby comes along. Similarly, if you don’t currently have any savings in the bank, you might be worried about how you’ll finance larger purchases, like nursery furniture, medical treatment, or childcare fees.

Do a financial audit to establish exactly where you are and then calculate how much you’re likely to spend in the first two or three years of a child’s life. By doing so, you can establish whether you’re financially ready to have a baby and, if not, what you need to do to get there. Similarly, look to your financial future to determine how you can increase your income or savings to ensure you’ll have the funds you need to raise your family.

6. Do You Want to Raise a Child in Your Current Location?

If you’re happy in your current location and it’s a good place to raise a child, you may be content to stay there for the foreseeable future. However, if you don’t have easy access to good schools or there aren’t many job opportunities, you may need to think again.

Moving to a new area when you’re heavily pregnant or when you have a baby can be difficult, both practically and financially, so you may want to make this transition in advance. If you know you want to have children in the near future, for example, you may decide to move to a new location before getting pregnant.

7. Are You Emotionally Ready?

Knowing whether you’re emotionally ready to have a baby can require a lot of self-analysis and soul searching. You may want to resolve any on-going issues in your life before you take on the challenge of parenthood, for example. During this process, be kind to yourself and take all the time you need. For some people, talking to someone, like a close friend, therapist, or counselor, can help you to process your thoughts and deal with them in a healthy and constructive way.

8. What Does the Future Look Like?

You can’t predict the future but imagining your life in two, five- or 10-years’ time can help you to get an idea of what you want your future to look like. If parenthood is a firm fixture in your future, then it might be a sign that you’re ready to have a baby now. Alternatively, you may realize that you want to experience other adventures or achieve other things before you commit to being a parent.

Deciding to Start a Family

No one can be fully prepared for what parenthood holds until the time comes but you can get an idea of whether you’re ready to be a parent but assessing the different ways a child will impact your day-to-day life. With introspection, practical considerations, and honesty, you and your partner can decide whether you’re truly ready to start a family.

5 Basic Home Maintenance Tips That Can Help You Save Big

Hi lovelies,

With winter approaching, many homeowners are worried stiff about the structural integrity of their roofs, floors, or walls. Going into the cold winter period with a leaking roof or malfunctioning heating system is a discomforting experience. Renovations, repairs, or upgrades are not reserved for the freezing winter and the blistering heat of the summer.

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However, home maintenance is financially tasking and time-consuming. The following essential home maintenance tips will help save money while also leaving your home structurally sound and ready for the season:

Access your home maintenance needs

No one knows the nooks and crannies of your house like you do. Stroll around the home and self-inspect the house. Note any areas that need repairs. You cannot budget for a slab leak repair without first identifying the severity of the problem. Check the heating, ventilation, and cooling system, insulation, and even the foundation. Cost-effective home maintenance should also factor in the exteriors. Therefore, check if the lighting, drainage, and other installations are working. Self-inspection is a great way to save money and ensure your repairs and renovations are thorough.

Develop a checklist and prioritize
Before picking up the phone to call a professional or opting for DIY repairs and maintenance, make sure you have a list. A to-do-list will ensure that you track the progress. You may end up paying thousands of dollars in significant home repairs because you missed a leaking roof or malfunctioning HVAC system. As you work on the checklist, consider listing the repairs based on priorities and available funds.

Get the help of a professional
Hiring a certified and experienced professional may seem like a counterproductive measure for a homeowner seeking to save money on repairs and maintenance. However, quality professionals guarantee high-quality services that last for years. A shoddy work translates into more money washed down the drain due to constant yet avoidable repairs and even legal troubles.

As a bonus, you won’t have to worry about licenses, safety, or running into trouble with the local municipal authorities. Licensed and professional contractors always cover any issues, including insurance. Therefore, ask for those referrals from close friends and colleagues if you have any home maintenance job.

Consider hiring yourself
One of the best ways to save money on home maintenance is performing the repairs yourself. Some of the repairs at home require fewer skills and experience. You can tap into your knowledge and skill base and save those dollars for an extra holiday gift for your loved ones. Instead of hiring a handyman, ask your loved ones to chip in and repair those broken windows. The feeling of repairing your home with your loved ones as your workmates is deeply satisfying.

Improve your toolbox
Whether you plan on hiring a professional or repairing the HVAC unit yourself, you need a well-equipped toolbox. You can’t remove sediments from the water heater without a garden hose pipe.

The value and longevity of your home depend on care and maintenance.Get your home ready to sell, lease, or rent by repairing or upgrading the heating system or gutters by yourself or hiring a qualified professional.

How to Travel Safely This Holiday Season

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Hi lovelies,

The holidays are about to be in full swing. Unfortunately, this year will look different for so many people in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2019, 115 million Americans traveled somewhere during the holiday season. This year, however, that number will undoubtedly drop dramatically. 

Many people will be staying home for the holidays in order to keep themselves and their loved ones safe. 

However, others don’t have much of a choice but to do at least some traveling. Or, maybe you absolutely need to head home to see your family. If you do decide to do any traveling, there are a few safety precautions you should put in place to keep yourself and your loved ones healthy and protected. 

Consider Road-Tripping
Instead of choosing to fly anywhere for the holidays, a safer option might be to take a road trip. Road trips are a great way to connect with your immediate family and reduce your risk of exposure because you’ll be around fewer people. 

We’ve already talked before about how great traveling in an RV can be, so whether you rent out a rig or travel by car, it’s a fantastic opportunity to make new memories. 

If you do decide to go on a road trip to visit loved ones, be aware of any pit stops you make to get something to eat, go to the restroom, or get gas. Always wear a mask when you’re around others, wash your hands frequently, and social distance as much as possible.

It’s also important to make sure you’re keeping yourself healthy while you’re on the road. That includes getting enough rest so you’re not tired behind the wheel. Being alert will help you to be aware of any traffic issues, and can help you to avoid an accident. If you aren’t alert enough to drive, you might end up having to retain a skilled personal injury attorney - not exactly the way you want to spend your holidays! 

Educate Yourself as Much as Possible
No matter where you’re traveling, make sure to stay up-to-date on any safety rules and regulations they might have in place. Certain locations might have more restrictions than others. By educating yourself ahead of time, you’ll know exactly what to expect and you won’t be overly-stressed when you have to follow those restrictions. 

Don’t Go If You’re Feeling Sick
If you’re feeling sick at all before your travels, it’s probably best to postpone or cancel your trip. Even if you think you just have something as simple and harmless as a cold, you could be putting others at risk if they get sick, too. That’s especially true for family members with weakened immune systems. 

If you’re worried about passing on any type of illness, make a point to get tested for COVID before you go anywhere. The test is easy as usually only takes a few days to receive your results. If you test negative, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your family members won’t contract anything from you. 

Keep a Positive Attitude
Unfortunately, the mental health impact of this pandemic is a very real thing. While it’s too soon to tell just how strong that impact will be, studies have already shown increases in cases of anxiety and depression. Loneliness is a huge problem, as well, and isolation can be incredibly dangerous when it comes to your overall mental health and wellbeing. 

The holidays can often be stressful enough. But, this year feels different for so many reasons. One of the best things you can do if you’re traveling is to keep a positive attitude and try not to let that stress overwhelm you. 

In order to do that, it’s important to accept that things will be different. You may not get to experience all of the same things you do during a typical holiday season. You may not even get to see all of the family members and friends you’re used to spending time with. Being grateful for the ability to see and spend time with anyone is what’s important. In order to develop that attitude of gratitude, focus on the present moment rather than memories of the past or thoughts of the future. 

No matter how you choose to travel over the holidays, keep these tips in mind in order to keep everyone safe. Additionally, these ideas should only be used if you absolutely have to travel. If it’s possible, stay home and stay safe. The more precautions you take now against this virus, the more grateful you’ll be next year when you can hug the ones you love. 

Is The Home Cold Or Is It Just Me?

Hi lovelies,

Brrr, are you shivering at home? 

We all know how uncomfortable cold homes can be. More often than not, when you can’t keep the heat inside, there’s a simple solution to your problem. You need to identify where your home is losing the heated air. 

The most common culprits tend to be the doors and windows. An old frame could let the cold air through. It’s typically easy to test. You can notice a significant drop in temperature around the window or the door. A little DIY can ensure you seal all the gaps and keep the warm air in. Other issues can also be tested by touch. A wall that is cool to the touch may lack proper insulation, and therefore may be cooling down your home. Similarly, if your heating units don’t cover the entire property, you can notice differences as you walk through the rooms. However, what happens when you can’t notice any significant differences, yet the home still feels cold? 

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Rooms need more direct light exposure
Is your home dark? No, we’re not talking about light fixtures, but also direct sunlight. A room that is bathed in natural light instantly feels warmer because our mind associates the sun with warmth. On the other hand, a dark room can be perceived as colder than it is. Additionally, lack of sun exposure can also affect your mood. The winter months can trigger seasonal affective disorder, or SAD for short, a depressive syndrome. Depression also affects the way your body regulates its temperature. In other words, when you’re feeling sad, you tend to get cold. If you find it hard to let light in through your windows, it can be a good idea to reach out to professional architecture companies to open up your rooms. An extension can bring plenty of light to dim rooms. 

Too much clutter
Ah, clutter! We love getting new things, but our hoarding mentality makes it hard to keep the house tidy. Clutter can prevent healthy air circulation. While it is unlikely your clutter will block air flow at home, it can make it hard or slow for heated air to reach every room. However, the presence of clutter can lead to emotional turmoil, creating stress and depression. Feeling depressed will change the way you perceive temperature, as you become more vulnerable to cold. 

The heating is too high
Are you turning the heating up without noticing any significant difference? It can seem odd, but when the heater is too high, it can affect the temperature inside your home for the worst. Indeed, heated air tends to lose moisture. When the air gets too dry, it feels colder than it is. In other words, you could get into a vicious circle when you continuously need to turn the heater up while feeling colder. How do you break the circle? You need to reintroduce a healthy humidity level to your home. Ideally, you want to aim for approximately 30% humidity in the air, which you can monitor with a sensor. Adding an air humidifier by your heating unit can completely transform the home! 

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Feeling cold is not something you can measure with a thermometer. When you feel cold, but the house is warm, you need to think outside the box to address the issue. In winter, we are especially vulnerable to mood swings. Make it your priority to stay happy this winter if you’re going to stay warm! 

Bringing A Sense Of Authenticity To Your Home Decorations

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Hi lovelies,

It can often seem as though there are as many ways to design your home as there are implements to purchase for it - and that’s often the case. Creativity is limitless, and so often it’s not trying to decide what to purchase or how to decorate that’s the issue - it’s when to stop and understand that less is more.

Of course, aside from the specifics of purchasing certain implements or going for certain decorations are the themes you consider most appropriate in the long run. For instance, you may want to consider renting storage units to keep to a minimalist design effort, which can provide a lovely and forward-thinking means of keeping your home well-balanced, your space respected, and your general surroundings easy to keep up with.

That being said, sometimes you’re looking for something more substantial and fundamental than following a design philosophy. Bringing a sense of authenticity to your home decorations, to use an example, could be a wonderful start.

So - how can we achieve this? Let’s consider the following examples:

Consider Reclaimed Wood
Reclaimed wood is wood that has been sourced from other areas, perhaps from prior furniture, perhaps from larger constructions - and fashioned into implements you can use for your home. For instance, it might be that you gain access to a 400 year old cathedral door after renovations take place, and you are able to visit a carpenter to help you transform it into a coffee table or main kitchen table.

That’s a wonderfully unique item, one with real, actual history you can see in the visible line and treatment of the wood. That’s more than something you can pick up in IKEA, and it has character hard to replicate elsewhere. Of course - this is quite a fantastical example. Reclaimed wood can come from anywhere, from old school desks, from old planks, anything. What matters is giving it new life and an air of authenticity to your home usage.

Rattan & Authenticity
There’s nothing quite like beautiful craftsmanship, and affordable rattan furniture is of course worthwhile of being defined in this manner. Rattan furniture can provide you with beautiful, breathable, gorgeous vine palm that provides a structurally sound, easily cleaned, gorgeous furniture implement that can be adjusted in very many ways. From storage baskets to seating decorations, this kind of furniture can be a tremendously beautiful implement to have in your home - and for the price, it’s quite amazing just what a visual impact it will have.

Distressed Visual Effects
Distressed visual effects can also make a world of difference if you’re hoping to bring some home-craft-appeal to your home decorations. This might involve using varnish, light tools, ice and other implements to weather the wood of a furniture item a little, leading to a wonderful result. Of course, this might not seem ‘authentic’ to some, but the overall aesthetic is still authentic in that it provides that form of theming. For instance, fake beams in the ceiling may not be ‘authentic’ character, but they provide that authentic characteristic look, and so we should limit ourselves to opting for that if that’s what makes us happy.

It might also be that distressed visual effects can work on sideboards. You may also choose decorative elements such as stencilling, furniture painting, and more. If you can do that then you have your own, beautifully adorned item without having to purchase it, and you can also be certain that this is one of the most unique items of its type.

Crafting Your Own Decorations
Of course, our last bit of advice is not only to decorate furniture to your whims, but consider making it yourself. From little wall-decorations to photo-frames to flowerbeds, having a working ability to either craft woodworked implements or present your designs to a carpenter can be a tremendous use of your time.

Crafting your own decorations need not seem like a mammoth task you have to fulfill perfectly. Sometimes, the little extra accidents or renovations can make a big difference, helping the authenticity of the piece. For instance, let us say you have a small rowboat. Cutting that in half (safely), and installing shelving units in there can give you a small, beautifully unique bookcase. Then, perhaps you’ll have the little nicks and scratches where you had tried to treat and change the wood beforehand to show your craftsman’s journey. That can be a wonderful place to begin, as it provides you with a worthwhile, personal, authentic element going forward. Don’t be afraid of these efforts - who knows how far you could go?

With this advice, we hope you can bring a sense of authenticity to your home decorations, all for the better.

The Biggest Benefits Of Moving Home

Hi lovelies,

Moving house is a stressful time. It costs a tremendous amount of money (whether you’re buying or renting), it’s massively disruptive, and the reason behind the move itself might be an upsetting one, such as a relationship breakdown, losing a job, or retiring. Of course, the other side of the coin is also true; there can be some wonderful reasons for moving like expanding your family or getting a promotion or choosing to be near family, but either way, the move itself is a stressful time. 

When you feel stressed about moving home, keeping a few of the most significant benefits in mind is useful. If you can do this, your stress levels might just reduce, and you’ll be able to think of the bigger picture. Here are some of these benefits, but remember, there are plenty more. 

You Can Change The Look
When you move into a new place, you will have an unparalleled opportunity to change its look and make the interior design exactly how you want it. Whether you’re already brimming with ideas or you want to check out the top 5 design trends for new homes in 2020, you have the chance to make your home as comfortable as possible by putting your own design stamp on it. 

You Can Become Less Materialistic 
Over the years, we collect all kinds of bits and pieces. Some of those ‘bits’ are beautiful or treasured; they evoke memories or make you smile. Some of those ‘pieces’ are, however, just junk when you really look at them. Do you use them? Do you like them? If the answer is no and no, why not take the chance when you’re moving to throw them out? There’s no point in taking things with you to your new home that aren’t going to fit there and will either get in the way or stay in a box in the basement for years to come. 

Image from Pixabay
Your move is the ideal time to declutter. You can do it as you’re packing, having boxes that you know you want to take with you, others that need to be taken to the dump, and others to give to charity or sell online if you can find the time. You should then be left with just your favorite things, and you can become much less materialist in the process (meaning your new home won’t get full of clutter in the future). 

You Can Make New Friends 
As we get older, it becomes harder and harder to make new, good friends. Yet a house move will help in this regard, and that’s good because making and having friends is good for our health, including our mental health. 

 When you move to a new town, city, or perhaps even country (or even if you just move a few streets from where you were), you have an excellent opportunity to meet your new neighbors, or join new clubs and events and meet people there. 

If you prefer your own company, that’s fine – many people do. Yet having some people you at least know by name in your nearby vicinity can help to make the world a much less lonely place. 

Saving Money When Moving To A New Home

Hi lovelies,

Moving to a new home can be such an expensive project to undertake, as there are just so many different costs and responsibilities that you have to consider. Keeping control of your finances during a home move can often seem like an impossible task, but luckily there are in fact many inventive tricks and tips that you can utilise to save money without losing out! So, if you’d like to find out more about how you can keep the cost of your home move at minimum levels, then read on to uncover some of the best steps that you can make the most of now.

Image Source - Pexels 

Shop Around For Essential Services 
Whenever you need to invest in essential services such as estate agents or moving support, it’s vital that you can take some time to look around to find the best deal. Simply accepting the first price you see is sure to keep your costs high, whereas looking on a few different websites and platforms may open up the opportunity to save a considerable sum. You can get quick quotes and even compare different providers against one another to ensure you spend as little as possible, so don’t be afraid to approach each business and detail previous quotes to see if they can change their price to a more affordable number. Always read reviews left by previous customers to get a better idea of the quality of the service, as this is usually a good way to get a realistic look at what you can expect to receive for the money that you pay. 

Ask Friends & Family 
Though you may not wish to put the burden on others, asking your family and friends to offer a helping hand during your time of need can help you to save a large amount of money. A few favours from your nearest and dearest can cut out the need for you to spend on lots of different services and features, and you can simply promise to repay the kindness whenever they need your support. Throw a big house warming party with lots of delicious food and drink when you’re all moved in so that you can thank them for their valuable help! 

Sell Some Old To Make Room For New
It’s more than likely you’ve got several pieces of furniture, decor and other related items that you do not want to take with you to your new home, so rather than lug them around just to put in storage, why not put them up for sale? Selling some of your old stuff is a great way to make room for new items, and you will be able to gather some much needed extra funds too. Post on auction sites and social media to gain attention for your items, and be sure to add sufficient details to get the best price for your stuff. 

Saving money when moving to a new home has never been so simple when you are able to make the most of the top tips and tricks detailed above! 

A Few Interesting Things Your Smartphone Can Help You With

Hi lovelies,

There are many things your smartphone can do and many ways in which they can help us in our day to day lives. But these features are often not very well known about. We’re going to talk about some of the useful things you can do with your smartphone that might just change the way in which you live life from day to day. So keep reading to find out more about all this.

Stay Safe with Location Tracking
Staying safe is what we all want to do, and if you’re a parent you’re probably even more concerned about the safety of your kids when they’re out and about without you. Well, now you can download an app or have your kids download it that tracks location and lets friends and relatives know where you are and where you’re going in case you find yourself in a dangerous situation.

Control Your Home’s Lights
Smart technology is making all kinds of great things possible in the home. And one of the things that’s not possible is controlling the lights in your home from your smartphone. Yes, that means you no longer have to get out of bed to turn the lights off when you want to sleep. Instead, your smartphone makes that possible as long as you’re using the right bulbs.

Dealing with Hearing Impairments
Anyone who’s suffered any kind of hearing loss or hearing impairment knows how difficult and challenging it can be. But now the technology behind hearing devices is improving and can integrate with our smartphones and other tech when using compatible hearing aids. It makes a real difference when listening to music or watching a movie or TV show on your device.

Lock and Unlock Your Car
You no longer have to get your car keys out to lock or unlock your car because your smartphone can do that for you too. Many car manufacturers now make this possible via an app that can be downloaded onto your phone. As long as your car is up to date enough to handle this kind of technology, you’ll be able to control the locks of your car with your smartphone from now on. It’s incredibly impressive and convenient.

Measuring Distance and Levelling
If you’ve ever needed to measure a space in your home for a new piece of furniture or appliance but then realized you don’t own a tape measure, well, you’re in luck. Using the camera on your smartphone, it’s now possible to use apps that accurately measure the distance between one object or point and another. You’ll never need to rifle through your drawers searching for a tape measure every again.

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As you can see, there are plenty of things that your smartphone can do that you never realized. Explore all its features and make sure that you’re getting the most from your phone. With each new model that comes out, what’s made possible by these devices increases.

Prepare Your Home For Winter With These Simple Tricks

Hi lovelies,

Winter is rapidly approaching, and it’s important that you are doing everything in your power to ensure that you are ready for it. It might seem like you’ve got a couple of months, but it’s never too early to prepare, especially when the weather is so unpredictable these days. It’s been a crazy year, so it wouldn’t be too far-fetched to imagine that some of the harsh weather conditions are going to come sooner rather than later! So, in this article, we’re going to be taking a look at how you can prepare your home for winter. Keep reading if you want to find out more.

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Make Sure Your Heating Is Working
You’ve got to make sure that your heating is working, and check it every week or so just to make sure that it’s not broken. One of the worst things that could happen is that you get into the thick of winter, and you don’t have functioning heating. There are other things that you can do to make your home warmer, like using blankets, candles, having thick curtains, and so on, but none of this is a replacement for heating when it gets too cold. If you don’t have working heating, then you need to get it fixed so that you do. It’s not worth risking getting ill through the winter months when you don’t have to.

This is going to be especially true if you have children in the house. You’ve got to know that you can heat your home when the cold sets in, so just check this every week or so.

Always Have The Right Equipment On Hand
We highly recommend that you always have the right equipment on hand at all times. This could be anything that you might need through the winter months, including snow shovels and tools to fix things around the home. You never know when you’re going to get snowed in and can’t get a snow shoveling service out to you, meaning you’re going to have to do it yourself. Remember, though, that if you are snowed in, that also means other people aren’t going to be able to get to your home. That’s why you need a variety of other equipment, so if something breaks in your home and you’re stuck without help, you can do your best to sort the issue.

Secure The Roof!
Finally, you must make sure that the roof is secured before the weather starts to turn. The roof is one of the most important parts of your home because it protects you, your family, and everything else within the walls. If there is a slight leak, this might not be too bad at first, but the longer it goes on, it could end up causing more damage. While the weather isn’t too bad, you should climb up on your roof and make sure there are no holes or anything that could cause you issues. If you don’t know what you’re looking for, then get a roofer to come out and take a look. It’s always better safe than sorry, especially with the harshness winter can bring with it.

We hope that you have found this article helpful and now see some of the things that you can do to prepare your home for winter. There is plenty more that you can do to ensure that your home is ready, but these are just a couple that are super important. Good luck!

Ordeal Estate: Why Is Moving Home So Expensive?

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Hi lovelies,

Moving home can be one of the most expensive processes that you will ever go through. Of course, this is largely thanks to the property you’ve just bought or paid a massive deposit on, but there are also plenty of other costs that can come with your move. To give you an idea of what you will have to pay for when you go through this process, this article will be exploring some of the key spending you’ll have to do. It will be good to get into your new home, but you need to make sure that you’re going to be able to afford the whole thing.

Taxes & Duty
Alongside paying for the home you want to move into, most countries also charge taxes and duties on this sort of transaction. You can’t avoid paying fees like this, and the amount you have to fork out will be dependent on the cost of the home you’re moving into. It’s always worth looking into these charges before you start the process of moving home, making sure that you won’t have to pay extras that are out of your budget.

Surveyors
It would be a mistake to spend a fortune on a home without knowing how it was built or how well it will stand the test of time. This makes it crucial that you spend some money on a professional surveyor to check the place for you, ensuring that there aren’t any issues that could cost a small fortune down the line. Major problems will usually be disclosed in the advert, but this is a good way to prevent yourself from getting into trouble.

Storage
Most people will struggle to ensure that the day they hand their keys over for their old place is also the day that they can move into their new one. Even if these days do overlap, it can be hard to make sure that all of your possessions make it there on time. This leaves a lot of people with little choice but to spend money on services like storage. There are loads of companies out there offering this sort of support, but you will need to spend the time searching for them if you’re going to reap the benefits.

The Move
It’s unlikely that you have access to the large vehicles that are required to move home. A car can be used for your smaller possessions, but large furniture will be impossible to fit into most automobiles. Companies like North American Van Lines offer an affordable way to make sure that your move is covered from start to finish, with all of your items being moved to the new place on your behalf.

Moving house is an expensive process, but this doesn’t mean that you have to waste your money. By taking the right approach, you can often turn the tides when it comes to the money you spend on moving home, making the whole thing easier to afford.

9 Ways To Make Your Move Less Stressful

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Hi lovelies,

Moving house can be stressful. But if you are organized it can make the process so much easier. Here are nine top tips for making your move go as smoothly as possible. 

1. Use a Removals Company
Moving day will be stressful and a lot of work. Make sure that you hire a moving company such as Allied Van Lines Canada to help you to move your possessions. Having experienced assistance will speed things up dramatically and you will know that your belongings will arrive safely. 

2. Start Packing Early 
Packing takes a long time. Make sure you allow yourself plenty of time to pack up your possessions. Start several weeks before the move and pack a little bit every day. Start with the items that you know that you won’t need until after your move. 

3. Fill All of Your Boxes
Gaps in your boxes will cause items to knock into each other which may result in your belongings getting damaged. Make sure to use packing paper, cloth, or foam to pack your possessions. 

4. Have More Boxes Than You Think You’ll Need
It is surprising how many boxes you’ll need to pack all of your possessions. Make sure you get more boxes than you think that you will need. 

5. Pack Your Clothes On Hangers
You may think that a good idea would be to pack your clothes off the hanger. But you’re making more work for yourself. Instead of going through the hassle of taking your clothes off their hangers and boxing them up, why not just neatly slide a garbage bag around your clothes while they are still on the hangers. Remember to label up the bag so that you know which room it will go to in your new home. 

6. Declutter As You Pack 
Decluttering as you pack is essential or you’ll end up moving with items that you no longer want or need. The more you can get rid of as you pack, the easier it will be when it comes to moving. 

7. Pack A Box Full Of First Night Items
On the first night in your new home, you’ll be tired. Everything will still be in boxes and you won’t be able to find anything you need. 

Make up a box full of items that you know that you’ll need when you get there. You should include items such as toilet paper, coffee, mugs, toiletries, a towel, and your bedding. 

8. Take a Photo of Your Wiring 
If you have anything in your home that has complex wiring, such as a router or TV, take a photo of it. That way, you’ll be able to copy the photo when you get to set it up in your new home. 

9. Label Every Box 
Every box will have its home when it gets to your new house. To make sure they go straight to where they need to be, give all of your boxes color-coded labels saying what is in them and where they are to go. 

What to expect from slots in the future?

Hi lovelies,

It is funny to think how far the slot industry has come in the last two decades, as opposed to the slow and sustained growth it experienced in the 20th Century. Indeed, many gamblers thought that the slot boom of the early 1900s, and then the 1960s and 70s, was bound to be the high point of this burgeoning market, but that was completely blown out of the water with the emergence of online slots. How Charles D. Fey, creator of the world’s first truly commercially viable slot machine, would be surprised if he were still alive today. We’re not sure he would have ever envisaged his creations becoming quite this popular, certainly not across the Internet. 

And you know what they say: you can learn a lot from the future by simply steadying the past. When we utter this statement with the slots industry in mind it becomes clear that the overall online casino market is certainly not going to stop growing, if anything it will only expand faster. We are already seeing this with the abundance of new slot developers entering the field, with companies such as Pragmatic Play and Yggdrasil eager to get a cut of the swelling market. Here’s the thing though: these developers are going to have to work extra hard these days to get their games noticed, something that can only be a good thing for the overall state of the market.  So with this in mind, what can we expect from slots in the future? Well, read ahead to get a breakdown of what many senior slot gambling analysts are expecting from www.cozino.com. 

Bigger and better bonus rounds 
What is the main feature of an online slot as far as most gamblers are concerned? Why, it’s the bonus rounds of course, something that can often make or break an online slot in today’s world. Some of the best titles of 2019 were so good because they had several different bonus features, as well as a set of very handsome jackpots alongside. Take Centurion by Inspired Gaming, for instance, a game that took bonus rounds to new levels. 

It therefore follows that developers are going to be trying as hard as they possibly can to make the bonus features of their new slots as good as possible. There is just no getting around this fact, if they want to attract the most slot gamblers they can the bonus rounds simply have to be good. So anticipate some even juicier bonuses in the future, and make sure you cash in on them too! 

Clearer HD graphics 
Graphics have been one of the prime areas where all sorts of video entertainment media industries have been trying to make major gains, from the world of home cinema to live gaming. It is also a crucial part of the online slot industry, the reason behind developers such as Yggdrasil’s insistence on constantly making their games look even better. 

The future of the online slot industry is definitely going to be affected by how well these companies can achieve super HD graphics, so we expect the slots of tomorrow to look even better than they do now. 

Even more mobile gaming optimisation 
You know what the biggest success story of the last few years is when it comes to online slots is? The mobile slots market, of course, a new derivative of the overall online casino industry that has experienced pretty remarkable growth over the last half a decade or so. In fact, the amount of gamblers spinning the reels on their laptops is now actually less than on their phones, such is the expansion of the mobile market.

It only makes sense, therefore, that the future of the industry be somewhat governed by the mobile gaming sector, with developers putting more and more effort into making their games perfect for mobile devices. 

Innovative new game mechanics 
Have you ever had the good fortune to play the slot Well Of Wonders by Thunderkick? In a daring move the developer chose to do away with the classic reel mechanics of most slots, instead having the symbols float out of an enchanted well in the middle of the screen. 

This is a trend that we expect to see a lot more of in the future, as developers try out new ways of making their games as unique and innovative as possible.

 Virtual reality slots 
Now, this is something that we are incredibly excited to see more of in the future: virtual reality slots. Oh yes, it can happen, and already is to some extent, with a few virtual reality online casinos having popped up in the last few years. 

This is nothing though, just you wait until the full extent of virtual reality technology is realised in the world of online slots. You could theoretically descend into the world’s that games such as Vikings Go To Hell or Fluffy Favourites portray, completely turning the experience on its head! 

Possible boom in retro solid-state slot machines 
You see it all over the many facets of popular culture today: out-dated things from the past suddenly becoming the talk of the town once again due to the nostalgia and retro factors. And who’s to say this exact thing won’t happen in the realm of online slots? 

Many slot gambling experts are anticipating a huge demand for retro solid-state slot machines in the future, as people get sick of spinning the reels 100% online. 

Much bigger jackpots 
As the online slot industry continues to grow, so too will the amount of money spent by gamblers trying to hit a big win. This, naturally, means that the developers and online casinos responsible for making and hosting the slots will get even richer, however there is also some good news for us gamblers too. 

Because these companies have an exponentially rising income, you can bet your bottom dollar that the jackpots they offer will get bigger and bigger. Good news, eh?

4 Points To Ponder Before Revamping Your Home

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Hi lovelies,

Everyone deserves to live in a home they love. The function of the home is, of course, of vital importance, but the aesthetics count for a lot, too. If you aren’t happy with what you see, then you won’t feel good at each. Each day you’ll have to deal with this kind of negative feeling. This negative sensation will then affect how you behave and perform each day. While it may seem like ‘just a place to stay’ for some, it’s actually a huge facet in the way we act day-in-day-out. Our homes need to have a beautiful interior and a marvelous curb appeal in order for us to be at least a little content overall. Revamping your home if you’re unsatisfied with it is by no means a stretch or a bridge too far in life. It’s something you should do if you think it will make you feel a lot better. 

While it may be quite a bit of work, it’ll be very rewarding in the long-term. It’s something you should really look forward to. If you feel as though you’re on the cusp of beginning this project, then here are a few things you should quickly do beforehand: 

Get Into The Right Frame Of Mind 
It’s going to be quite the project, so it’s only right that you get into the right headspace with it all. Make sure you’re prepared for what’s to come. You don’t want to get halfway through everything before taking a big ‘break’ from it all because you’re a little tired. You need to have made the right decision before you begin. 

Ensure Your Plan Is Good Enough  
If you have a plan ready to follow, then it’s going to make things so much more convenient for you. Write out what you intend. Talk about what you want to include. Write about what hours you’re going to be working. All of this is important as you don’t want it all swirling around in your mind. 

Have Somewhere To Store Some Of Your Items 
You’re probably going to struggle to store everything in other rooms or in the garage while you redecorate. Sure, if you’ve got a large area to keep everything, then you’ll probably be fine, but not everyone has that kind of liberty, unfortunately. You could ask someone you know about using their property, but that might not be the most convenient thing for everyone. Storage units are a great idea in this regard. You could contact All In Self Storage for secure storage solutions and be done with everything quickly. As soon as you’re ready to take your stuff back, you just have to turn up and let them know. 

Get Help If Necessary  
If you want to do it all on your own, then that’s totally fine. You’ll get a lot more joy with help from others, though – not too many others, of course. Friends, family, and even experienced professionals in interiors would be welcomed. You’ve got to do what you can to maximize your satisfaction at the end of the day. 

Why You Should Be Switching To Natural Cleaning Products

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Hi lovelies,

Cleaning your home is one of the most basic and necessary things that you should be doing in your home. Regular cleaning will help remove any kind of allergens and contaminants from your home, and it’ll keep it looking brand-new and fresh at all times.

However, most of us don’t really think twice about the products we buy. In most cases, we’ll clean our homes with whatever cleaning products are on sale or that we can buy in bulk. Cleaning products aren’t cheap, so it makes sense to go with whatever offers the best deal. People usually don’t realize that inexpensive cleaning products can contain lots of toxic chemicals that are not only bad for the environment but can also agitate certain health problems.

So in this post, we’re going to take a look at a few good reasons why you should be switching to natural cleaning products. By paying more attention to the cleaning products you buy, you could potentially treat certain health effects and ensure the health and safety of your family.

Makes your home a safer place
There’s a reason why those cleaning products you buy have multiple warnings on them. Some of them even say that they’re toxic or flammable. With those kinds of labels, it’s easy to see just how dangerous they can be in the wrong hands. When some of these chemicals mix during a thorough cleaning session, they can often create dangerous compounds that will affect the health of you and your family.

Children and pets are the most vulnerable when it comes to these toxic compounds. Household cleaning supplies are actually rated as one of the top five substance classes that account for calls to the Natural Poison Control Center. It’s important to understand what’s in your cleaning products so you’re not unintentionally mixing dangerous compounds that could be damaging to the health of you and your family.

Improve the quality of air in your home
When you use a spray bottle cleaner, you’re essentially filling the air with all sorts of different chemicals and pollutants that can clog up the air. These are known as Volatile Organic Compounds or VOCs, and they’re associated with health problems that can affect the central nervous system, your kidneys and even your liver. This is because the compounds linger in the air for a long time, meaning it’s very easy to breathe them in. Reducing the number of VOCs in your home starts by switching your cleaning products to a natural alternative.

There are also other sources of VOCs in your home that you should be aware of. For example, mattress off-gassing is a common source of VOCs that can affect the quality of air in your home. To avoid this, you’ll want to look for an item that is Greenguard Certified or to leave it in a well-ventilated room to let the chemicals escape. If you’ve been using regular cleaning products for a long time, then this can also help you clear out the air in your rooms as you switch to natural cleaning products.

Less likely to cause damage to the environment
One of the big reasons why natural cleaning products are so popular is because they do less damage to the environment. This happens in a variety of different ways. For starters, natural cleaning products are typically packaged in eco-friendly materials. They avoid as much plastic as possible and they typically come in materials that can be cleaned and recycled, or even refilled later in the future.

In addition, most natural cleaning products are made using ingredients that aren’t toxic or hazardous to the environment. This ensures that they don’t harm wildlife and that they’re safe to use around children and pets. If you’re concerned about the toxic chemicals that are found in regular cleaning products, you may want to consider switching to natural versions instead.

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They can actually save you money
While some natural cleaning products can be quite expensive, most of them can be used for a variety of different purposes. A simple natural cleaner can be used for everything from windows to toilets and tiles. They’re often extremely versatile and will do a good job at cleaning almost anything in your home. On the contrary, regular cleaning products usually have one job that they’re good at. You’ll typically need to buy a whole suite of cleaning products to clean your entire home.

It’s also possible to save money by making your own natural cleaning products. Vinegar is one of the most popular examples of a multi-purpose cleaning product that most households have. By mixing it with baking soda, you can create an all-purpose cleaner at home from ingredients that you already have. This can save you a lot of money if you buy the ingredients in bulk or have them around for other purposes.

Becoming a role model for your children
It’s our responsibility as parents to set an example for our children. If you want them to preserve the environment and follow in your footsteps, you need to set a good example for them. It all starts with the type of cleaning products you use. If you tell your children the difference between regular and natural cleaning products and why you use them, it’ll educate them on how to adopt environmentally-friendly practices that can help the planet.

Since your children should be involved in household chores, it helps to explain to them why natural cleaning products are better and the advantages they have. With this in mind, you’ll have a much easier time teaching them good habits that they’ll take into the future.

A clean home is a safe and comfortable home. We highly recommend you do more research into the cleaning products that you use on a daily basis to see if they’re safe to use in your home or should be avoided. We understand that this can be a tall order, which is why it’s much easier to just purchase natural cleaning products that are certified for their environmentally-friendly benefits.

Enhance & Improve Your Home's Curb Appeal

Hi lovelies,

When it comes to visitors to your home making an assumption about you and how you live, research shows it takes just a few seconds. This means that before a visitor has even entered your home, they are already judging you and how you live, which is why taking your home’s curb appeal seriously is so important. If you want to ensure that your home’s exterior creates the right ‘vibe’, then it’s crucial that you take the curb appeal of the property seriously. 

Wondering what steps you need to take in order to hone and improve your property’s curb appeal? Below are a few tips and ideas to have a read of, take note of, and consider implementing to give your home’s exterior a boost. 

Photo source: Pixabay

Upgrade dated doors
This accounts for both your front door and your garage door. If the doors on the exterior of your property are outdated or have fallen into a state of disrepair, then it’s important that you take the time to upgrade them. One of the first things that any visitor to your home will see is your front door and your garage door, which is why updating these regularly is so vital. When it comes to upgrading your garage door, make sure to buy from a reputable company like Andrews Overhead Doors for instance, to ensure that you’re purchasing a high-quality garage door design. 

Invest in new lighting fixtures 
Once you’ve spruced up the front and garage door, the next logical step to take is to focus on your home’s exterior lighting. The right lighting fixtures can significantly change the look and feel of a property’s exterior, so it’s definitely worth investing in them. If you’re not sure how to wire in outdoor lights yourself, you can either opt to hire an expert or you could go for solar-powered lights instead, as these require no wiring in. 

Beautify your porch 
If your home has a porch, then it’s a good idea to take the time to spruce up the space. Start by cleaning the entirety of the porch with hot soapy water, and removing any rubbish or junk from the area. Then, once you have a clean, clear space, you can start upgrading it. It’s all about the little things - focus on upgrading any old fixtures or fittings, add a few potted plants or hanging baskets, and make sure that there’s adequate lighting in place. 

Buy a doormat 
Don’t have a doormat? A fresh, new doormat could help to bring the entirety of your home’s curb appeal together, helping you to create a space that looks and feels smart and wonderfully stylish. 

Refresh the paintwork 
If any areas of your home’s exterior have peeling or stained paintwork, from the walls to the window frames, then it’s probably a good idea to consider refreshing the paintwork with a new coat of paint. 

There you have it, a few simple tips and ideas for enhancing and improving your home’s curb appeal.

Life After Lockdown: 4 Things You Should Prioritize

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Hi lovelies,

The pandemic is by no means over, but it’s safe to say that lockdown won’t be the same again. With restrictions easing in most places and people’s patience at an all-time low, the novelty has worn thin.

Of course, that doesn’t mean that the impact of self-isolation has disappeared completely. In many ways, you’ll come out of the lockdown as a new person as there are lots of lessons to learn. Whether you’re more grateful or healthier, your perspective won’t be the same, and how can it? Nothing like this has happened in this century!

However, regardless of your state of mind and how you view the world, you’ve got to do one thing - prioritize your health. Taking your routine for granted is no longer an option, which is why you should do four things as soon as you get the chance. Continue reading to find out what they are and learn more about them.

Make An Appointment With Your Doctor
Interacting with a medical professional face-to-face has never been harder. If you thought appointments were hard to come by before, you haven’t seen anything yet! Of course, it’s easy to see why surgeries are either booked up or not letting patients into the premises. Still, it doesn’t negate the fact that you haven’t spoken to a doctor in five months.

Considering the world is in the midst of a global health crisis, it makes sense to have a checkup to ensure that everything is fine. Also, it’s vital that you reschedule previous appointments, particularly if they were canceled as a result of COVID-19. Not to scare you, but heart disease and cancer don’t disappear.

The good news is that specialist treatment centers now have guidance on how to reopen without putting patients at unnecessary risk of catching or spreading the coronavirus.

Take Care Of Your Lungs
COVID-19 is a virus that attacks the respiratory system, so it makes sense that you should focus on your lungs. If they are weak, there’s a higher chance of suffering potentially fatal side-effects, and it doesn’t matter how old you are because it’s an indiscriminate illness.

How do you take care of your lungs? You can start by cutting down on the number of cigarettes you smoke per day if you’re a smoker. If you’re already on the quitting bandwagon, you’re still at risk as vaping is also bad for your lungs, so you shouldn’t get complacent. Try and cut down on how often you vape, too. For non-smokers, it’s vital to exercise regularly and tweak your diet.

Consuming more fish is an ideal way to protect your lungs as seafood is high in omega-3 fatty acids. Nuts and leafy greens are also helpful if you’re not a pescatarian.

Listen To Your Body
When you receive a diagnosis, it’s easy to let the shock wash over you. However, if you listen to your body, it will tell you whether there’s a problem well in advance. The key is to watch out for the telltale signs and to take them seriously.

Some are more obvious than others, such as bleeding and vomiting, yet just because the symptoms aren’t urgent doesn’t mean they can’t be painful or long-lasting. One of the biggest tinnitus myths is that the ringing in your ears if that’s how it manifests itself, is a bearable condition. In fact, it depends on the level and intensity because some types of tinnitus are crippling.

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With that in mind, you should never underestimate your body’s ability to raise the alarm. If it wasn’t a problem before and it is now, it’s essential and requires treatment. It’s that simple.

Don’t Forget Your Mind
After months of having your rights curtailed, it can be weird to go back to normal. You didn’t see anybody but your family for five months, and now you’re expected to drink and eat next to strangers. Sure, you can choose to stay in, yet who’s going to resist the opportunity? Hardly anyone.

Therefore, it’s crucial to remember that your brain may work differently for a while until it’s used to its surroundings again. You may struggle to interact the same, you may not have the same spring in your step, and you may be more introverted than previously. In this case, don’t forget that socializing face-to-face, even if it’s while wearing a mask and for thirty-minutes, is an excellent way to increase your tolerance. Practice makes perfect, people!

What are you going to prioritize once the lockdown ends and you can move around freely?

*GIVEAWAY* Make Your Home a Peaceful Oasis with Organic Aromas Nebulizing Diffusers

Hi lovelies,

If there’s one thing that this quarantine reboot has taught me, it’s how important it is to slow down, enjoy each moment, and be mindful to create a home environment that induces peace, calmness, and joy.

That’s why I have an Organic Aromas Nebulizing Diffuser in almost every room of my home. The lovely scents and the health benefits of the essential oils makes staying at home my own personal soothing and peaceful oasis, and they can do the same for you.

I also love using my nebulizing diffuser when I’m meditating. The clean and fresh air with a hint of scent aids in relaxing me while I settle my mind for the mediation.

Another time that I love using Organic Aromas oil diffusers is when I’m hosting friends and family at my home. Making sure that we have yummy food, refreshing beverages, soothing music, fun games, and a curated scented experience with aromatherapy essential oils. The essential oils makes sure that everyone feels welcomed and calm.

The oil diffuser is also the perfect companion when you’re relaxing and unwinding with your favorite book. It creates the perfect atmosphere for getting lost in your novel. 

When I’m in the kitchen, sometimes the smell of the food while prepping and cooking can be less than desirable, think fish, onion, and garlic smells. In order to make sure that my kitchen and home stays smelling fresh, clean, and inviting, I use my air diffuser to overpower the unpleasant smells and fill the air with pleasant smells instead.

Another crucial time to utilize the calming effects of the oil diffusers is when you’re moving your body in a mindful way at-home. When I’m doing yoga, stretches, or pilates at-home, I love making sure that my home is filled with relaxing scents.

So whether you’re cooking, entertaining, doing yoga, reading, or just relaxing, Organic Aromas Nebulizing Diffusers is the perfect way to create a peaceful and calming experience at-home. 

*** GIVEAWAY ***

It’s GIVEAWAY TIME!

I’m giving away, to one lucky winner, a Magnificent Nebulizing Diffuser from Organic Aromas!

Ready to take your home decor to the next level?

Ready to make your staying at home experience to the next level?

Ready to make your home your own personal oasis?

Then enter the giveaway now!

Leave a comment below and follow @candywashington to qualify!

Take The Stress Out Of Moving Home

Hi lovelies,

Moving home is something that pretty much all of us will have to do at some point in our lives. And most of the time it can be incredibly exciting. After all, it gives you the chance to make a fresh start somewhere new and have a clear out of things that you don't need anymore. It's like the ultimate spring clean for your life! That being said, it can also be incredibly stressful and difficult. In fact, it can often be so stressful that a lot of people will avoid doing it at all rather than face it. Fortunately, there are a few things that you can do to make moving home just that little bit easier and less stressful.

Get ready early
Perhaps the most common mistakes that many people make when it comes to moving house is assuming that they have more time than they actually do. People tend to relax because they think the move is months away. Then it's weeks away. Then it's only days away and you realise that you've wasted a huge amount of time. By making sure that you're getting the earliest possible start on the packing, you're able to spread the process of moving over a much longer period of time and you can avoid that mad panic right at the end.

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Get some help
When you're first getting ready to move, it's all too easy to convince yourself that it's really not that much of a big deal and you can probably handle it yourself pretty easily. But the truth is that moving is almost always a much bigger challenge than you might expect so hiring a moving company like Allied Van Lines is all but essential. You might think that the money you will save doing it yourself makes it worth it but the truth is that many moving companies are highly affordable and the extra convenience they offer is always worth the money.

Pack up room by room
One of the things that people forget about all the time when moving is the process of actually trying to unpack everything when you reach the new house. If everything is jumbled up because you packed it all in a slapdash way, unpacking is going to be a nightmare. Unpacking should be a fun start to your life in your new home so packing things up room by room and labelling them carefully makes the whole process of making your new house a home so much easier. The last thing you want is to find yourself digging through boxes just trying to find the kettle!

Take Only What You Need
Embrace your move as a chance to declutter and focus on essentials. Selectively choose items that fit your new life and for those valuable but non-essential possessions, consider using SecureSpace Self Storage. This approach simplifies your move and helps in creating a more organized, rejuvenating space in your new home. Remember, moving is more than a physical transition – it's a chance to reinvent and rejuvenate your living space. By taking only what you need, you give yourself the freedom to embrace new possibilities and make your new house a true reflection of who you are now.

The reality is that, no matter what you do, you're never going to be able to take all of the stress out of moving. It's always going to be something of a difficult, complicated process. However, at least with these tips, you can help to reduce your stress levels a little bit and you can instead dedicate your attention and energy to the fun and exciting parts of starting fresh in a new home!