Living the Thrifty Life

Play It Safe - 5 Ways to Ensure You Protect Your Income

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Tue, 25 Jun 2019 22:47:00 +0000

Image: Nattanan23/Pixabay.com

Life is unpredictable, and even the most carefully designed plans can go haywire if an unexpected event occurs. This is why protecting your income is vital to your financial and emotional health. Here are five methods to secure your finances, no matter how many lemons life throws at you.

Eliminate Debt--

It can be hard to get ahead in life without accruing some debt, but it’s important to know which debt is helping you and which is causing you trouble. Shop around for every loan you take out, including student loans, mortgages, and small money loans. This way, you’ll get the best rates and know what you’re signing up for.

Create an action plan for how and when you will pay off the debts to avoid feeling out of control of your finances. Pay with cash when you can, especially for things like cars which depreciate the second you drive off the lot.

Plan Ahead--

You can’t know the future, but you also can’t get what you want without a plan in place. A good place to start is with a six-month savings buffer that can cover your living expenses in case something unexpected happens, like a layoff or an accident. This will give you ample time to get back on your feet or apply for the assistance you need without bills rolling over and forcing you into debt. Only 61% of Americans could pay for even an unexpected $400 bill. This is astonishing but can easily be avoided with an emergency fund.

Next, establish financial goals. Paying off debt could be one. Investing the right amount of your paycheck to retire by your target age could be another. By planning, you are able to feel cushioned if things make a turn for a worse.

Budget--

To protect your financial progress, you have to think of your income as a bratty child and you as its overbearing parent. Make it your business to know where it’s going and what it’s doing. You’ll never know if impulse buys and random expenses are causing you to spend more than you make if you don’t evaluate the numbers and ensure they line up in your favor (to learn more about how to make a budget and why it’s important, click here).

Create Multiple Streams of Income--

To protect your income, you might want to avoid putting all your eggs in the same proverbial basket. If you were to be laid off, what would be your first step? You could apply for unemployment benefits, but this can be a long process in which you aren’t guaranteed help.

By establishing other streams of income, whether it be investment dividends, real estate, or even a good side hustle, you’re able to relax if one stream dries up as you know you can just put more effort into growing the others. Even passive incomes that start small can give you peace of mind when the fan gets hit.

Regularly Reflect on Your Goals--

By revisiting your financial goals, you’ll be better able to see the progress you’re making toward them. You can then reevaluate your spending habits and debts to see if you can attack them more aggressively or lean back while in a season of higher bills. To protect your income, you need to know if your expenses are getting too high, and that is done by revisiting the handy-dandy budget.

No one likes to plan for things to go wrong, but we know disasters happen. These can include company closures, accidents, and recessions. To protect your income, practice these five methods, and remain confident about the future, come what may.

The Final Veneer - 4 Clever Ways to Make Dental Veneers More Affordable

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Tue, 25 Jun 2019 22:44:00 +0000

Photo by Vinicius Wiesehofer from Pexels

Veneers are hot right now. More and more people, from celebrities to the regular Joe, are seeking out this procedure thanks to its reputation for being able to craft you the perfect smile. Promising a whiter, brighter grin and perfectly shaped teeth, dental veneers are all the rage.

If you’ve thought about getting dental veneers but know that affording them might be a problem, you’re in luck. While most dental insurance policies don’t cover such cosmetic procedures, there are ways to make dental veneers more affordable. Let’s take a look at a few clever tricks you can use to get the smile you’ve always dreamed of without breaking the bank.

#1 - CareCredit

Going to the dentist is never cheap. Just getting a simple cleaning can run a hundred dollars or more. If you want dental veneers but aren’t in a position to pay for them upfront, the CareCredit card can give you the affordable payment plan you need to achieve the healthy smile you desire.

In addition to porcelain and composite veneers, the CareCredit card may be used for other dental procedures such as root canals, braces, implants, and more. It’s important to check with your dentist to find out if they accept CareCredit before having anything done.

#2 - Call Your Insurance Company

As mentioned before, most dental insurance companies won’t cover cosmetic procedures like dental veneers. However, if your teeth were damaged in an accident, it’s worth mentioning to your insurance company as they may cover at least some of the cost of fixing your teeth. The more your veneers will improve your health rather than just your appearance, the more likely your insurance company will cover at least part of the cost.

A word of advice: Don’t rely on the dentist to find out if your insurance company will cover the dental veneer procedure. Call them yourself so there is no question and no surprises after the fact.

#3 - Shop Around

Just like everything else that costs money, the price of dental veneers varies from dentist to dentist. It pays to shop around to find the best deal on the type of veneers you want.

It’s important to also take time to research the dentists as well to ensure you aren’t sacrificing quality and safety for a cheaper price. Check the internet for reviews from previous patients. Look for a mix of positive and negative reviews, which tells you they are honest. If you find a dentist with nothing but outstanding 5-star reviews, it could be that he’s paid for them to bring in more patients.

#4 - Borrow the Money

Dental veneers cost on average $900-$2,500 a tooth, depending on which dentist and which type of veneer you go with. If you can’t afford to pay for your veneers on your own, another option is to borrow the money.

You can always ask friends or family to help you fund your veneer dreams, but if that’s not feasible, applying for a loan with a reputable lender is another option. If you already have an account with a bank, try there first. They already know you and your deposit history, which is a step in the right direction.

Dental veneers are a popular option for fixing uneven, broken, and discolored teeth. The procedure can be expensive, and most insurance companies won’t cover it because it’s usually classed as cosmetic. If you want to get dental veneers but can’t afford them on your own, the above-mentioned ways should help you make them more affordable.

5 Simple Things That Will Make Your College Experience Better

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Wed, 22 May 2019 19:18:00 +0000

Photo by Helena Lopes from Pexels

College can be a complex time. There are lots of deadlines, frustrations, social changes, new people, material you don’t understand, and way more.

College will also be great, and you will learn a lot and meet amazing people. I have found that there are some things that will make the experience better. They are simple but have made my college experience more enjoyable.

Laptop/Flash Drive--

A good laptop makes a huge difference. You will be doing a lot of assignments and so you need great speed, lots of storage, and good RAM. This all essentially governs how fast your computer will go, how much memory your computer has, and how much you can download. If you have a cheaper laptop, it will likely be another source of frustration, as you will constantly be waiting for things to load and clearing up space.

This is where a good flash drive comes in. You should have all important information backed up in multiple places. A Flash drive allows you to store lots of information off of your computer. If you have less important items, you can copy them to your flash drive and delete them from your computer, freeing up precious space.

It is important to note that you don’t need to break the bank for a great laptop. There are many affordable options that are still quality computers. Asus is a great example, and you can even find some surprisingly good deals on Macs.

Headphones--

This seems kind of basic, but I did say these are simple things right? A good pair of headphones is a lifesaver. You can listen to music while doing homework, exercising, sleeping, or being in common areas without affecting others. You need to be respectful of your roommates, and headphones allow you to be respectful if they need silence. It also allows you to not be bothered as most people will not approach you while your headphones are in. Being social is great, but sometimes you need your peace.

People use their headphones all the time. Pro tip: when walking to class and using headphones, make sure you are aware of your surroundings. You would not be the first person to not hear an incoming bike or person and get run over.

These first two items go together perfectly for the most commonly done activity at college: Netflix!

Coupons--

These aren’t something you can really prepare when you come to school, but they are awesome. Whether you find a paper coupon to a restaurant or store or use an app to find coupons or deals, it will make you happier than you can comprehend right now. You may not feel joy when you get a coupon for a discount on milk and cereal right now, but once you are a college student I promise you will.

Jacket--

This next one may not apply for those who go to school in places like Florida, California, Arizona, and Hawaii. They get great winter weather. For us peasants who don’t attend school in perpetually warm climates, a good jacket is a life saver.

You will do a ton of walking as a college student, even if you have a car. Keeping warm is key to a happy you, so make sure you get a quality jacket that will keep the winter woes away.

Apartment--

This is crucial. Different apartments have vastly different atmospheres and reputations. You should look carefully to find out what apartment will be right for you. Find one you like, and that seems to match your personality.

Some apartments have very social atmospheres and people. Other apartments have quieter, laid back feels to them. Find the vibe that is appealing to you. Student living is a very important part of college because when you go to your apartment, it should feel like home.

Conclusion: Life is full of simple, yet important things. These things helped me find peace, relaxation, success, and belonging. Look into these things, but also know that just about anything can do this for you. Attitude is everything after all. Good luck in school my friends!

Common Bed Bug Myths Busted

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Wed, 22 May 2019 19:12:00 +0000

For many years it was believed that the menace of bed bugs was reduced over time mainly due to an improvement in hygiene standards. However, bed bugs have made a comeback and the menace is only going to grow. If you notice even a single bed bug around you, take action immediately. There are certain myths about bed bugs which can fortify you against an infestation. Here are some common myths busted for you.

Photo by Jon Tyson on Unsplash

Bed Bugs Can Fly--

Bed bugs are really fast but on the ground. Their speed is more than one meter per minute and they cannot fly. It would be an absolute nightmare if bed bugs started flying. You might feel like they are everywhere which is why you have an illusion that they can fly. They easily adjust to different living conditions and temperatures.

Bed Bugs Multiply Very Quickly--

Bed bugs are difficult to locate and they live longer on other insects. This is why there is an illusion that they multiply faster. They actually reproduce slowly. Their life cycle will span out over a couple of years. A female can lay only one egg in a day and the eggs take about 10 days to hatch and about 6 weeks to mature into an adult. This is pretty slow as compared to other insects.

Bed Bugs Are Only Visible at Night--

You are right, the insects are nocturnal but they can also be visible in the day. Light does not keep bed bugs away and they will come out if they are hungry. If bed bugs are present in your house, you can expect to be bitten at any time.

Bed Bugs Can Go up to a Year Without Feeding--

Bed bugs easily adapt to temperatures and to the lack of food. Even normal room temperature is ideal for them. Bed bugs thrive in the same environment as humans do and in reality, they can survive about two to three months without feeding. However, their metabolism slows down in the winter and they can survive on their last meal up to one year in the cold. It is mainly because they are cold blooded and show such behavior.

Bed Bugs Live in Mattresses--

Bed bugs are believed to be only found in bed because of its name. However, they are not only found in beds but can be found anywhere. You can pick them up from public transport, from other people, public places, others’ houses, and pets. Bed bugs are small and they can crawl into very tiny spaces like cracks in the walls. Even luggage gives them a lot of folds to hide in. They are not only found in mattresses but any place that is warm.

Bed Bugs Are Unsanitary--

Even if your house is the most sanitary place in the world, you can have bed bugs. They are hardy and very undiscriminating. They tend to infest poorer homes more often because of the dense population that translates to more food sources for them.

Bed Bugs Can Travel on Us--

This is a big myth that needs to be busted right away. Bed bugs do not like the heat in your body and they do not travel on the body. They like areas away from body heat and you will never find them on your skin or hair unless they are feeding. However, they do travel in clothes. Hence, you need to check thoroughly before wearing your clothes and shoes.

Removal of bed bugs is necessary and is very tricky. If you notice that there are bed bugs in your home, you need to call professionals for a thorough inspection of your house. Professionals at bed bug control Seattle use the latest tools for an inspection of the house. There are certain steps you can take to treat bed bugs. It starts with cleaning the place where bed bugs live. This includes bedding, curtains, and linens. Wash them in hot water and dry them. Put all the items that cannot be washed into a dryer and run it for 30 minutes. You need to use a stiff brush in order to scrub the mattress seams in order to remove the bugs before vacuuming.

Never ignore the presence of bed bugs in your home because it can cause a menace in no time. You need to understand that proper treatment is necessary for removal of bed bugs and if you are unable to clean your home, you might have to seek the assistance of a professional for the same.

Home Haven – 6 Simple Ways to Boost Your Home Security

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Tue, 07 May 2019 18:21:00 +0000

Photo by Soroush Karimi on Unsplash

Security, it's something we all strive for; in our jobs, our relationships, and our homes. When it comes to the first of these areas of our lives, the responsibility for security rests mainly with us. Sure, there are other factors that could impact it, but at the end of the day we maintain the majority of control over our performance, and therefore, the job and relationship security outcomes.

Our homes, on the other hand, are largely affected by factors we have no say in. The best way to deal with this is to be prepared and take control of every aspect your can, which is precisely what this article is all about.

Lock It Up--

Since the best way to protect what's in your home is to keep threats out, the first thing you're going to want to do is to invest in upgrading your locks. Traditional deadlocks still have their place, but thieves and those who wish you harm are getting better at circumventing them. For optimum security, installing a smart door lock is a far more sophisticated choice. These devices carry all the traditional benefits with an added layer of tech that makes it easier for you and your guests to access the house while making it harder for unwanted visitors to get in.

Fence It Off--

Likewise, upgrading your fencing can be beneficial in stopping those with dubious intentions entering your premises. While this won't be permitted in all neighborhoods, if you're allowed to, it's worth looking into what kind security fencing would be a good fit for your property. You may have to sacrifice some of your views but the trade-off for peace of mind is worth it.

Lighting Is Key--

If you're looking for something that can add convenience as well as security, sensor lights can both literally and figuratively light up your life. Forget scrambling for your keys in the dark or trying to figure out whether that shadow in the backyard is an intruder or just a tree; any type of significant movement will set them off, so you'll know exactly what's going on in and around your home at all times.

Companionship--

This one may seem a little strange but owning a pet can, in some cases, deliver the same security benefits as always having someone home. Many thugs will target properties which seem unoccupied so an animal can act as a deterrent and if anyone does try to come inside, your new friend can raise the alarm.

Scream It from the Rooftops--

Speaking of alarms, if you don't have one, you really should. You can try your hardest to keep intruders out but if anyone manages to get in, you're going to want to know and an alarm is the easiest way to achieve that. Many systems also come with the added benefit of being able to autonomously alert the police or a security company for you. This can be a literal lifesaver in some situations.

Hit Record--

Another successful deterrent that will also be quite beneficial if anyone does ever get inside is a network of security cameras. Clearly visible cameras can scare malicious individuals away from your home, but if they decide to brave it anyway, you will at least have clear footage to give to the authorities.

While no-one can ever guarantee complete safety, taking these steps can significantly improve the security of your premises. Have a look at what's on offer and install the options that best fit your situation. You may never need them, but that’s a game of chance it’s really not worth gambling on.

These 5 Food Items Will Improve Your Skin and Hair Health

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Tue, 07 May 2019 18:17:00 +0000

Sometimes the secrets to health are right under our nose when we are least able to suspect them. The market is flooded with commercially made skin and hair care products but do we closely pay attention to how we take care of our bodies from the inside as we do on the outside?

External factors only play a small part in keeping your skin young and glowing and your hair luscious. After all, no amount of anti-aging creams could save you from wrinkles if you're nutrition deprived on the inside. The human body has means to maintain its beauty and they only come into play if the right nutrients are provided through proper diet.

Hair fall, dry skin, baldness, aging and all worries that take up most of your time can be regulated, prevented and even cured with the inclusion of these 5 simple foods in your meals:

Almonds--

All nuts are ideal for hair growth but almonds stand out because of their nutritive properties that include an abundance of vitamin E and B that should be consumed on a daily basis for good skin and hair. Almond oil is applied for the purpose of bringing back the life and luster of dry hair with split ends.

Two teaspoons of almond oil with milk does the trick of restoring the health of frizzy and grey hair. Consumption of raw almonds as a snack is known to smooth and moisturize the skin.

Spinach--

We often get reminded how important it is to finish the green leafy vegetables on our dinner plate but have you ever wondered what all they could do for you? Spinach is a green antioxidant vegetable that cleanses your skin from the inside out. It comes loaded with Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Vitamin K. It cures acne, provides sun protection and has anti-aging benefits.

It also improves skin complexion and makes it look radiant. Spinach is eaten boiled and used in salads and soups. You can order it in the form of salad or other dishes from reputed places like originalsaigon.com.au/gluten-free-guide-vietnamese-food.

Seeds--

Eating seeds is a healthy food habit that more people need to develop. Seeds are more far more nutritious than one might think. It doesn’t do them justice to throw them away. Sunflower seeds contain zinc that promotes continuous hair growth.

Yellowish fenugreek seeds fight dandruff and work as a skin cleanser. Chia seeds are also a prominent source of Omega 3 fatty acids. Watermelon seeds have amazing moisturizing properties. Seeds can be baked and used as salad dressings.

Oily Fish--

Fish oil is one example of fats that are not harmful to us. Omega-3 fatty acids cannot be produced by the body on its own. They have to come from external dietary sources such as fish. These acids help balance out the negative effect of Omega-6 fatty acids.

They fasten the collagen production for glowing skin and thick hair. Extraction of fish oil and selling of fish oil beauty supplements has grown popular because of the presence of omega-3 fatty acids and the wonders they do for skin and hair.

Gooseberry--

In many cultures, gooseberry is known as a fruit that has nectar-like properties. Just 10 ml of sour gooseberry juice every day could save you many potential trips to the doctor. It stops premature aging in its tracks, repairs skin to bring it back to its original coloration, and combats lifelessness of hair to make them stunningly lustrous.

There are infinite ways to include this in your normal everyday diet. Grate it and mix it with dough or make pickles or sweetened marmalade and jams. You can also drink extracted gooseberry juice for easy and quick consumption

When Should You Have Your Dryer Vents Cleaned?

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Tue, 07 May 2019 18:13:00 +0000

Many people don't realize that a dryer vent is more than a way for hot air to escape the appliance and leave the home. It also typically carries small particles of lint and debris out and away from the vent. Allowing this to build-up to the point of blocking the exiting hot air can cause problems.

Photo by Tina Bosse on Unsplash

Visual Inspection Reveals Dust, Lint, or Debris--

Pull the vent hose loose and inspect it using a flashlight. If you can see a build-up of dust, lint, or debris, it's time to get the dryer vent cleaned.

It's Been Longer than Three Years Since Your Last Cleaning--

You should have your dryer vent professionally cleaned at least every three years, depending on how heavy you use the appliance. If you use the dryer several times a week, increase the cleanings to once each year.

All of Your Laundry Has a Coating of Lint After a Full Cycle--

The built-in lint filter is there to catch as much as possible, but a clog in the vent makes it almost impossible to keep up with removal. It's time to bring in professional help if your lint filter is full and you still have heavy amounts of lint covering the laundry.

You Can't Feel Much Airflow Through the Outside Vent--

The airflow out of the exterior opening of your dryer vent should be strong when it's in full operation. A weakened airflow is a signal that there is a blockage somewhere in the line. Hire the expert dryer vent cleaning Sarasota residents depend on to keep the vents free and clear of lint and other debris.

Your Dryer Gets Unreasonably Hot--

The dryer and the entire area surrounding the appliance will feel abnormally hot when the vent is getting clogged. You need to have it cleaned out right away to avoid a fire that can spread to your entire home.

Keeping your dryer vent clean of clogs and blockages is important for both fire safety and to keep from stressing the appliance to the point of breakdown. Invest in a thorough cleaning and see how much better your dryer functions.

5 Tips to Select a Restaurant That Caters to Your Diet

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Thu, 18 Apr 2019 19:26:00 +0000

Maintaining a low carb diet on the weekends might be a herculean task. However, with a little bit of care and systematic planning might assist you in maintaining your keto lifestyle like a pro. Be it weekend parties or lunch dates, the following five tips will help you to choose the perfect restaurants that will cater to your diet regimen.

Availability of Online Menu--

In this world of digitization, everything is easily available on the world wide web. Search online for the menus of the shortlisted restaurants so that you can scan through the different menus beforehand to select the most reliable place. Pre-decide the dishes that you might order and check out its components clearly so that you can hunt for the sugar-free, low carb healthy dishes.

In this manner, you can get a clear idea of what different restaurants have in their bags to offer. Whether they are capable enough to fulfill your requirements of the keto diet or not. A little bit of extra step will surely help you to bolster up your low carb needs.

Contains Substitute for Starchy Foods--

If you're following a low carb diet, then it's a significant step for you to eliminate the food items that contain starch. Thus, hunt for the restaurants that offer an acceptable substitute for the starchy foods items. For instance, reduce the dishes made out of bread and refuse the rice. A restaurant must have a tasty replacement such as a fresh veggie salad or lettuce wraps in place of calorie-loaded burgers so that they can cater to the needs of people belonging to the different groups.

The well-being of your health lies in your hands so, never feel hesitant to be extra cautious about what you feed upon. Make clear choices and select the restaurant that makes delicious low starch dishes.

Has Food Items with Healthy Fats--

Most of the restaurants offer meals that are low in fats making it difficult for the people on low carb diets to feel contented. Thus, look for a place that could easily customize your dish without any much ado.

The restaurant workers should easily provide you with the add ons as required, like extra butter on your veggies or meat, or olive oil drizzling over your salad etc. For those hunting for quality food, places like https://au.linkedin.com/in/originalsaigonrestaurant can turn out to be boon when it comes to taking care of numerous dietary needs.

Go Through the Reviews--

To get a clear picture of a restaurant or cafe, the most appropriate option is to go through the public's reviews. This feedback shall give you a crystal clear image of the restaurant's ambiance and food quality. Thus, another significant step that you must follow for selecting a perfect restaurant is to sustain the people's feedback regarding all your shortlisted restaurants.

Many restaurants use inexpensive vegetable oils that are loaded with omega-6 fatty acids which are not a wholesome option for anyone. You could only get to know about this fact by the people who had an experience of dining in that particular restaurant. Thus, go through the reviews thoroughly before jumping to the conclusion.

Availability of Low Carb Drinks at Affordable Rates--

Often, restaurants charge their customers some extra bucks for an inexpensive diet drink by merely calling it a keto drink. Consequently, you might end up paying more than needed for a simple drink that could easily be prepared at home with some inexpensive ingredients. So, it's advisable to go to the restaurants that offer sugar-free beverages or sparkling water but all at a very budget friendly cost.

A restaurant must also make light beer, spirits or dry wine available to its customers so that they can make their choice based upon the number of calories it contains.

How to Buy the Right Dance Shoes for Your Child

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Thu, 18 Apr 2019 19:21:00 +0000

Photo Credit: Beto Franklin

Parenting is not easy. It is your job to open every door and window that will allow your child to succeed.. You do not know what interests they will develop as they grow up, so you must first lay a firm foundation. This is the primary reason why parents enroll their children in dance at a very young age.

Nothing compares to dance. A dancer is under more physical demands that a football player. Dancers spend more hours mastering their craft. A dancer uses the same muscles that a football player does, and he or she must do it with a smile. The tools of their trade are leotards, tights, and shoes. The leotards and tights support the body and help the dance to maintain good posture. The clothing also lets the dancer and the instructor see which muscle they are relying on, so they can correct an issue before there is an injury.

Dance shoes are a different story. All of the uniforms are important, But dance shoes are the only thing between your child and the floor. If they are jumping, twirling, or practicing, the shoes must be right. To ensure their feet are protected

Photo credit: Beto Franklin

Buying Dance Shoes--

When you enrolled your child in dance, they probably gave you a list of items your child will need. These items will include tights, leotards, hair ties, and shoes. The shoes are the most costly item you will buy. The good news is if you make your purchase from a quality dance wear company like Just For Kix the shoes will last longer than the classes.

You may be tempted to let your child wear someone else’s shoes. Maybe your older child had some that you kept. Maybe your friend has a pair they no longer use. This is a major mistake. As a dancer wears shoes, they form around their foot. Even as they wear, they will wear to fit the single person who broke them in. Dance shoes must fit very snuggly on the foot. They cannot have any movement between the foot and the shoe. This is not because of cosmetics, but for safety. If your child takes a jump and her foot moves, she can injure her feet, legs, and even her back.

Photo credit: Ivandrel Pretorius

Type of Dance Shoes--

+ Ballet Slippers. Every dancer needs a good pair of ballet slippers. They are perfect for studio practice. Even if your child is not taking ballet, they can wear them comfortably. Eventually, your child will move up to Pointe shoes. Even then, she will use her slippers to practice in.

+JazzShoes. You have a large selection when it comes to Jazz shoes.They come in a lot of colors. They also come in a range of styles. You can go with high-tops, slip-on, and low-tops.The soles are split-soles or full soles. Split-soles give the dancer more movement and flexibility. For your beginner, go with rubber soles. This gives them more control and padding when they jump.

+ Tap Shoes. Tap shoes are only worn by tap dancers. Their shoes are part of their performance. Tap shoes have metal plates attached to the toe and heel of the shoe. With every step, the dancer hears the tap which helps with the beats of the dance.

+ Hip Hop Shoes. Hip Hop shoes may look like sneakers, but they are high-performance shoes that give 100% of the time. Before you go purchase some high-dollar sneakers, compare the prices. Save money and buy the right shoes the first time.

+ Ballroom Shoes. Few children use ballroom shoes. These shoes are well cushioned, sexy, and they are heels. Shoes that have a heel that is square are Latin Ballroom Style. Heels of 2-2.5 inches that have a flared heel are the traditional ballroom shoe. Note: Latin Ballroom shoes can be worn with any type of ballroom dancing. But, flared heels are not recommended for Latin dances.

Again, your child’s instructor will tell you what kind of shoes you will need for each class. Order dance shoes online so they will arrive on time. Ask her about any needs for the recital at the end of the course.

No matter what type of dance your child learns to embrace, you can relax knowing that you gave her the right tool for the job.

Getting The Most Out Of Your Wooden Pallets

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Thu, 18 Apr 2019 19:08:00 +0000

Photo by Thomas Smith on Unsplash

The life cycle of a wood pallet doesn’t have to end after the product it’s carrying makes it to its destination. It also doesn’t have to come to a fiery end because you aren’t sure what to do with it. There are lots of things an old wooden pallet can be used for, listed below are just a few suggestions.

#1 - Raised Garden

Are you wanting to make a raised garden, but don’t want to spend an arm and a leg doing it. Old wooden pallets have you covered. All you’ll need is a cut here a staple there and some garden netting. Form a container with the pallets and staple the netting along the inner sides and bottom. Finish off by filling the container with some nutritious dark soil and just like that you’re ready to start planting.

#2 - Wooden Walkway

Whether you have a path in the back yard that is always muddy or you're looking for something aesthetically pleasing, wooden pallets have you covered. Just add a bit of wood in between the spaces on your pallet then lay them out along your path. Just like that, you have a raised walkway.

#3 - Animal Pen

If you're needing to form a quick pen for some livestock then look no further than the pile of wooden pallets beside your barn. You could easily make a little shady lean-to for the summer or a nice warm place for the winter. If your wanting to make something a bit more sturdy with your wooden pallets the DIY instructions at The Free Range Life should point you in the right direction.

#4 - Wall Flower Bed

A great addition to your back yard is a wall of flowers. Take a wooden pallet and lay it on its side with the wood on top and bottom going horizontal. You can easily make each section of horizontal wood into a little shelf, just perfect for sticking flowers in. Lean that up against your wall and you’ll have a lovely tiered flower bed.

#5 - Trellis

Are you in need of a garden trellis, maybe for some flowers or even tomatoes? Pallets are a great and affordable way to make yourself a trellis or two. You can get creative if you would like or just make a little tent with two pallets; either way will work and your plants will be grateful for the added support.

#6 - Garden Bench

A simple sturdy garden bench is just a couple of wooden pallets away. With a saw, hammer, and nails you could probably make yourself one in an hour or two. Throw a little white paint on top to give it a nice finished look.

It doesn’t take much to bring new life to your old used pallets, and most likely it will actually end up saving you money. The number of ways to reuse your pallets is endless. All you need is a pallet and some creativity to make something worth having.

5 Things to Consider About Repairing/Replacing the Roof Before Selling

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Tue, 09 Apr 2019 16:59:00 +0000

If you are planning to sell your house, you might be considering some repairs and improvements to get a good price. But, before putting your house on the market list, you need to check what needs to be repaired.

Do you need a roof repair or roof replacement?

It is one of the biggest decisions before selling a house. Whether you repair or replace, it is a heavy investment but a great factor to attract the potential buyer and will also increase the market value of your property.

There are few signs that might tell if your roof needs repairing or replacement:

+ If you detect some sagging or sloping of the roof deck, it is due to moisture.

+ Most of the shingle roofs last for 20 to 25 years if maintained properly. If the roof is old, it needs repair or total replacement.

+ If you can see any missing shingles by glancing at the roof, its a sign for roof repair.

+ If you notice any discoloration or staining on the walls or ceiling, it can be water damage caused by a leak in the roof.

But, is it worth repairing or replacing your roof? Here we have some considerations to keep in your mind regarding the repair of your roof before selling your house.

#1 - Get a Roof Inspection: The foremost thing to do is to check if there is any damage to the roof. Sometimes damages can be seen like cracks or maybe even a missing part of your roof. But there are chances that you might skip something while inspecting just by standing in front of your house. In this case, the efficient way to know the actual damage is to get it inspected by a professional. There are a few roof repair companies in Boise that do a roof inspection at no cost. So hire a roof inspector to determine your roof for existing issues or other potential issues.

#2 - Get Estimates: If you find that your roof is damaged and needs a repair, get an estimation of the expense. Roof repairing or replacement has a different price range depending upon the type of material to be used and the size of the roof. Have a word with few local roof investigators to get a cost and according to that make your decision. Your estimate should include the cost of material as well as labor.

#3 - Know the market: You need to understand the market around you. Look out for the selling and purchasing speed and prices of homes in the area. If your area is in high demand, there are chances that your house might get sold and the buyer might not ask you for an immediate repair. But, if the sale in your area is down, then a roof that looks bad will not attract the buyers. In that case, buyers can negotiate a lower price and you might not get the deserved value for your property.

#4 - If replacing the roof is worth: After determining the amount of damage, estimation of the cost of the repair and the market value of your house, you have to decide whether you actually want to replace or repair your roof. If there is massive damage to your roof or your roof is at the end of its useful life, it's better to go ahead with the replacements. Another best way to know its worth is by figuring out how much recovery you will get after selling your house.

#5 - Investigate the condition of the rest of your home: Along with the roof, it is important to know the condition of your overall house before selling it. If your home is in good condition and better than others in the area, then just replacing or repairing your roof adds a benefit before selling. Your home exterior is the first thing to impress buyers, so it should look better.

Flooring is another factor buyers care to see. For example, if you have hardwood floors, refinish them if required. Another crucial way to end a home sale amazingly is to have a presale home inspection. It can help you to identify the issues and you can fix them before selling your property.

Eventually, the decision is up to you whether you want to replace or repair your roof before selling your house. There could be some cases where few repairs may work best to make your home appear perfect to attract buyers. But, if your roof is beyond its lifespan, then get it replaced before selling.

A Few Things to Know When Considering Glass Shower Doors

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Tue, 09 Apr 2019 16:39:00 +0000

Many options exist for sprucing up a bathroom, whether it is a remodel or new construction. When looking for glass shower doors Dallas TX, here are a few things to keep in mind.

Image by GregoryButler from Pixabay

Types of Glass--

For sheer beauty, clear glass is difficult to compete with for luxurious appeal. Clear glass can open up a space by eliminating the visual “wall” created by a shower door. However, while easier to clean, clear glass also shows smudges and spots more readily. Keeping a squeegee in the shower to quickly wipe it down after use is a good idea.

Obscure or frosted glass will add more privacy and will hide smudges and spots, but it is also more difficult to keep clean because of its textured surface.

Frame Styles--

Shower doors can be completely frame-less, with no metal in their construction aside from handles and hinges. This style is easier to keep clean and is more dimensionally flexible to fit your space. However, it can be more prone to leaks and is more expensive.

Framed doors are less expensive but are generally only available in standard sizes and may not fit your space. Also, while they are better at preventing leaks, they can be more difficult to keep clean.

Tub vs. Walk-in--

While bathtub style shower enclosures usually have sliding doors mounted on the top edge of the tub, swinging doors are also an option.

Walk-in shower enclosures are much easier to access. Doors of this style can stop short of the ceiling for a standard shower, or they may go all the way up for a steam shower. The enclosure may be all glass, or it could be a combination of glass, tile and/or stone.

Extras--

Any of these door styles may have attachments included. These may include add-ons and embellishments such as bumpers, decorative handles or towel bars.

Glass shower doors offer more customization than you might think. With a little planning and research, opting for glass may be just what you need to help create your perfect bathroom.

How to Select a Commercial Cleaning Service

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Tue, 09 Apr 2019 16:32:00 +0000

It is very important to keep your office clean at all times. Failure to do this will turn off your employees and many of your clients. You must never neglect your office because you will not get a second chance to make first impression on your clients. You will find that there are many companies that will be in the office cleaning industry. However, not every company will have the same level of experience and skill.

Image by congerdesign from Pixabay

This means that it is up to you to check out each company to find out which one is the best. Here are the things you should be looking for.

#1 - The level of experience for the commercial cleaning company is critical.

You should never hire a company to clean your office if they are new to the business. Ideally, you should be looking for a company that has been cleaning offices for no less than three years. This will help to ensure that the company knows what they are doing and will do a good job for you. Some new companies might charge low prices to get your business. However, it would be worth it to pay more money to hire a more experienced company that performs commercial cleaning NYC.

#2 - Talk to some previous clients of the cleaning company.

You should see what other people have to say about any cleaning companies you are interested in hiring. These people will give you some valuable insight into the quality of work that you can expect if you hire a particular company. Find out how long these people have been using their cleaning company. How would they rate their quality of work? Do they charge a reasonable fee for their services? Make a note of the companies that get recommended to you.

#3 - Does the company use cleaning products that are all-natural?

There are many business owners who want their offices to be cleaned with products that are safe for the environment. This means you should find out exactly what the company will be using to clean your office. Never assume they will be using all-natural products.

Non-Permanent Ways to Decorate Your Apartment

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Tue, 09 Apr 2019 16:27:00 +0000

Making an apartment feel like home can seem difficult. Decorating and personalizing it isn’t always easy. On one hand, you don’t want to do anything that will lose your security deposit. On the other, you don’t want to feel like you’re living in a hotel. What are some non-permanent decor solutions?

Image by LEEROY Agency from Pixabay

Bold Statement Pieces--

Adding something that represents you as an individual will make the space feel more like yours. A bold touch doesn’t have to be enormous; even small pieces can make a big difference.

+ A clock can make a big impact in a room. There are so many varieties available: mantle, grandfather, desk or even wall clocks. Check out PenduLux clocks to find yours.

+ Artwork doesn’t have to be limited to stuffy museum-grade paintings of flowers. Spruce up a blank wall with a gallery touch, mixing and matching various mediums. Your wall will be full of color and personality in no time!

+ Quirky furniture is a fun way to make a space feel more like yours. A mismatched lounge chair, for example, can put a pop of personality into a living room.

Color--

Even though you can’t paint your walls, your space still needs color to make it feel happier! Beyond adding bright artwork to the walls, there are lots of ways to add other touches here and there.

+ Rugs are so easy to change out, and you can find practically anything online to fit your style. Printed or one solid block of color, they’re a simple way to brighten a room.

+ Mix and match throw pillows and blankets in gathering areas. They can be as themed or nonsensical as your heart desires.

+ Get your creativity flowing when decorating surfaces. Photo frames come in every color of the rainbow and look great when grouped together.

Making a rented space feel more personalized can be easy with a few simple touches. Adding your stamp on an apartment isn’t as hard as it seems!

The Perfect Guide to Your Skin Care Routine

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Wed, 03 Apr 2019 01:18:00 +0000

Does it really matter when and in what order you apply your skin care products?

According to many dermatologists, applying skin care products in the proper order ensures that your skin receives the full benefits of each product.

So which product goes on top of what?

There is an easy thumb rule to follow. Apply your products with the thinnest consistency to thickest. But, while developing a skincare routine, it is also important to know your skin type and according to that which products will benefit your skin.

Image by Steve Buissinne from Pixabay

Remember, daytime skin care is totally different from nighttime skin care. Daytime skincare routine focuses on skincare protection and moisturizing whereas nighttime routine focuses on cleansing and skin repair.

To help you stay on track of your skincare, we’ve put together a guide to daytime and nighttime skincare routine.

Daytime Skincare Routine--

+ Cleanser: Wash your face with warm water or with a gentle face cleanser. It will help in removing any dirt or sweat that may have built overnight. Along with that, it will remove the puffiness that might have developed during sleep.

+ Toner: Most of the people skip using toners because back in the days, it was an alcohol-based liquid which was considered to be harsh on the skin. Fortunately, that’s not the case anymore. Now, the toners are filled with gentle hydrating ingredients. They have AHAs and BHAs that unclog the pores and dissolve blackheads over time.

+ Serum: Serum absorbs deep into your skin, so it should be applied before moisturizing. It helps in preventing acne and wrinkles and brightens the skin. Some serum contains antioxidants which fight against the free radical damage caused by UV rays.

+ Moisturizer: Moisturizer is must even if you have oily skin. Applying moisturizer will keep your skin soft all day long. It also protects sensitive skin from environmental damage and improves the texture of your skin.

+ Sunscreen: Sunscreen should be your last step but must not be ignored. It protects your skin from harmful UV rays which causes fine lines, wrinkles or sunspots. It protects the sensitive skin from sunburn and reduces the effect of sun damage.

Night Time Skincare Routine--

+ Cleanser: It is important to remove your makeup before going to bed. Remove your makeup with a gentle cleanser and then wash your face to remove dirt and grime. It will prevent your skin from losing moisture and will open skin’s pores.

+ Toner: You can use a toner both, in the morning and in the evening. Use a toner right after cleansing to remove dead skin cells and clear pores. This will keep your skin clean and allow other products to do their jobs properly.

+ Scrub: Scrubbing assures that you are getting a deep cleansing. It increases the efficiency of skin cell turnover and results in a clear complexion and healthier skin. But, it should always be gentle. Never use large rough particles that can cause a micro tear in the skin.

+ Eye cream: It is vital to apply eye cream every night. The skin under your eyes is thinner and more sensitive. Using eye cream at night repairs the skin while you sleep. Some eye cream contains caffeine and vitamin K which lightens the dark circles.

+ Moisturizer: Some people use the same moisturizer during the day and at night. But, night moisturizer is generally thicker and creates a protective coating on the skin to prevent water evaporation while you sleep.

Along with skincare guide, we have listed some basic tips and tricks to maintain healthy skin.

#1 - Stay hydrated always. It will make your skin appear flawless.

#2 - Limit sun exposure. Staying out for a long time can cause skin damage.

#3 - Get enough of vitamin C. It contains antioxidants which helps in delaying aging.

#4 - Get beauty sleep. Your skin also needs rest just like your body. 7 to 8 hours of sleep on a daily basis allows your skin to rejuvenate.

Need another piece of advice?

Listen to your skin. Remember that you are unique and nobody else has your skin. It’s important to find out what works for you and always be kind to your skin.

Skin confidence is important for your self-esteem which comes from good skin health. Having a skin care routine will not cost you much, but it will surely serve you much. If you want to have gorgeous skin 30 years from now, your routine will help in that.

Skin confidence is the comfort you feel in your skin, whether completely bare or with makeup.

5 Ways a Foam Roller Is Beneficial to Your Workout Routine

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Wed, 03 Apr 2019 01:09:00 +0000

Have you ever wondered why a massage is recommended for athletes after extreme exercise? This therapy has a benefit called myofascial that relaxes the muscles. Likewise, a foam roller can be used for the same reason by a person who cannot access a masseuse. But foam rolling has more benefits to your fitness than you can imagine. That is why we need to go through them here for you to know.

Image by Pexels from Pixabay

Better Blood Circulation--

If you are a weekend warrior, you will notice that the muscles are stiff soon after long training hours. The same can be said for fitness enthusiast who spends long hours in the gym. There is less blood flow to all of your body parts until you foam roll to relax them. Blood is needed to supply nutrients and remove the de-oxygenated blood.

Improved Motion Range--

The muscles need to remain well-lubricated and stretched to optimize their functionalities in a workout. As you foam roll, also called self-massage, the muscles get to relax and allow better blood flow. With the stiffness gone, they will also remain lubricated for better motion during any exercise.

Reduce Muscle Soreness--

One of the main concerns of an athlete is to reduce muscle soreness. If you have been involved in extreme workout training after taking enhancement supplements from the https://120kgs.com website, muscle soreness is one of the expected results. There is a great need to work to reduce it fast if you have to go on with your workout schedule the following day. Foam rolling will definitely help to reduce your DOMS. So, no matter what experience you have with workouts, foam rolling should be one of your strategies.

Reduces Injury Risks--

The greatest fear of any athlete is to cause injuries to muscles, joints, or any other body part. This can put them out of their training schedule for weeks or even months. But foam rolling reduces the risk of injuries. This is attributed to the better blood flow, improved motion range, and reduced muscle soreness. Foam rolling for a few minutes after a workout is an excellent habit to get into.

Guarantee Faster Recovery Time--

Although there are many factors that determine the recovery time, foam rolling makes it shorter no matter what. It is, thus, highly recommended for all athletes and people in fitness no matter what their goals are. You can look at it as a routine that you will do after a workout to improve the blood flow and reduce muscle soreness. As mentioned above, this habit will keep the risk of injuries at bay.

Performing Foam Rolling--

Now that we have seen how beneficial it is through myofascial effect, it is good to know how often you can do it. Fitness experts recommend doing it before and after workouts. Buying the foam roll mat is easy if you visit any of the fitness outlets out there. You can read online to find the latest and best foam roll mats in the market for better results.

Guys, Here Are Some Easy Ways to Improve Your Apartment

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Mon, 25 Mar 2019 20:02:00 +0000

Photo by Robson Hatsukami Morgan on Unsplash

Guys, have you ever wondered why your girlfriend prefers you hang out at her apartment instead of your men’s freshman housing? You might try to blame your roommates for being too loud, but there could be other things causing her to stay away. If your apartment is like most men’s apartments then the smell is most likely the culprit. You probably don’t smell it anymore because your nose is used to it, but anyone else that enters your humble abode will notice.

Now that you’re off living on your own you might wonder how you can keep your pad from smelling like a freshman guy. If you would like your female friends to feel more comfortable in your apartment here are a few basic changes you can make to get the ladies to hang around longer.

Laundry--

Between the unwashed sheets on your bed and the pile of dirty clothes in the corner, men’s apartments tend to stink. Do yourself and everyone else a favor and do your laundry. Don’t forget to move your clothes from the washer to the dryer. If you forget you’ll have to wash them all over again, because guess what, they stink from sitting wet in the washer for hours.

Dishes--

Not many people actually like doing dishes. As unfortunate as that is, they still need to be done because dirty dishes smell bad, especially if they are left sitting in the sink for days. If you want girls to come around and stay a while, rinse out the dishes right after you use them and put them straight into the dishwasher. This will drastically improve the smell in your apartment.

Trash--

Make a habit of taking the trash out regularly. Putting a second trash bag out to gather more trash does help to make sure things get thrown away, but we’re back to the smell problem. Everyone knows trash stinks. The longer you leave it sitting in your apartment the worse it smells as food starts to mold and old eggshells become rotten. The dumpster isn’t that far away. Just take out the trash on your way to class.

Shoes--

People that are involved in athletics or try and get more than one wear out of their socks tend to have smelly feet. Most likely you fall into one or both of these categories. When you take your shoes off, don’t leave them by the front door. Take the time to put them in your room. A virtual stinkbomb sitting by your front door is sure to deter any woman who might drop by.

Smells--

We’ve now gotten to the basic level of cleanliness in your apartment. The next step up is improving the room. There are room scents that you can get that will help to replace the stink in the apartment for a much better fragrance. I’m not suggesting that you make your house smell like flowers, but a nice clean cotton scent isn’t a bad idea. The room scents are not eternal. They will run out of scent and you’ll need to get a replacement if you want it to keep doing its job.

All of these suggestions are simple to do if you are consistent. If you let laundry, dishes or the trash slide, that is when it turns into a huge ordeal that seems to take more time than it’s worth. Just devote a few minutes a day to keeping up with your apartment, and girls will feel more comfortable when they drop by. At least their noses won’t feel so offended.

DIY: Creating a TV Mirror in Fast and Easy Steps

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Sun, 03 Mar 2019 23:04:00 +0000

TV mirror is the current fad in the world of interior design right now. A TV mirror presents a smart way for designers to lessen the impact of bulky and wide television sets so it does not become the focal point of the living room. If you are interested in getting one, the best bet is to probably buy one or to ask professional services to convert your current television set into one. But if you are a DIY kind of guy or simply out to cut some costs, here are the steps on how you can do it by yourself.

The project is fairly simple but it can get be quite educational especially if you are not yet as handy with tools as you would like. You do not have to worry as it is difficult for you to mess this up given how straightforward the steps are. In the end, you should be able to create a fine high-tech centerpiece that is truly stunning and you can show off to your friends. It is functional as well which makes it a perfect guise to a contraption that could somewhat clutter your space. So without much further ado, here are the steps to creating your very own TV mirror where you would be “Netflix and chilling” like never before.

Gather the Materials You Will Need--

First things first, you need to gather the main materials you will need to start creating your TV mirror. You will obviously need a display. To support the TV mirror, you need to buy a frame to fit it in. And finally, you will need a semi-transparent mirror.

How to Choose the Best Television for Your TV Mirror--

The most important factor to consider when choosing a TV for your TV mirror is the thickness and brightness of the TV. You should opt for much thinner television sets as they are much easier to frame rather than thick television sets which would require special frames for them to house in. You can still use any other television sets however as long as they are not CRT, obviously. As mentioned, another factor you should consider is the brightness. Putting a television set behind a working mirror may distort the brightness of the display. This can cause poor quality but can be negated if your television set has the brightness to make it work. A Samsung television set usually ticks all the necessary boxes and you should consider buying one for a TV mirror if it fits your budget. If you intend to buy one or prefer to hire professional services to create your TV mirror for you, you should insist on using Samsung if your intention is to have the best possible outcome.

How to Choose the Right Mirror for Your TV Mirror--

Now that the TV part of TV mirror is settled, it is not time to turn our attention to the other half of the word -- the mirror. Certainly, picking the right mirror is a crucial step in creating a TV mirror, its functionality is, after all, the main selling point of having a TV mirror in the first place. Fair warning, you should definitely not choose just any kind of mirror because not all mirrors can work if used in a TV mirror. You will need a special kind of mirror that is called a dielectric mirror. A dielectric is a material that can be polarized if electric field is applied to it. Its other important quality is that it is an electrical insulator. Being dielectric allows TV mirror screens to have a vanishing effect whenever the TV mirror is turned on where you can then see through the mirror. If the television set is turned off, however, with an applied electric field to affect the screen, what you will see is a reflection projected by the mirror. Basically, the dielectric mirror is the reason why the TV mirror can have that magical effect. Dielectric mirrors are relatively inexpensive especially if compared to the television itself. It is thus, a good idea to invest money in the dielectric mirror as it can either enhance or diminish the experience when watching a TV mirror.

Alternatively, you can also choose other types of mirrors, albeit the transparency will not be as good as a dielectric mirror. You can choose to instead buy Glass Smart Mirror, Acrylic Two Way Mirror, or Glass Two Way Mirror as the screen for your TV mirror. You should however never use a two-way mirror film. It might seem tempting as it does provide the same functionality as the dielectric mirrors and such. But the resulting display will be extremely nontransparent and will render your TV mirror as completely useless. And worst of all, the film will sooner or later dissolve and bulge leaving an annoying permanent blot on your TV mirror especially if the room you are putting the TV mirror is normally filled with moisture such as kitchens or bathrooms. Though the two-way mirror film is so much cheaper, it might not be worth it to save those few dollars as the long term output will not be lasting for so long. As a TV mirror is both an artistic, functional, long term ornament, you should splurge a little bit on the little things that makes it better as it is.

Should you however still use two-way mirror in spite of all attempts to reason with you, you should at the very least use clear glass and not use acrylic. Do not apply it directly to the glass either.

Should You Choose to Buy One Instead--

If you choose to skip the DIY part and go straight to chilling, you may want to consider a few things before buying one. First of all, you should decide whether to directly buy one off the shelf or to hire professional help. There are pros and cons to both approaches. If you buy one off the shelf, it could cost less but you are not going to be assured of the quality of the TV mirror. Should you choose to hire help, you could decide which parts you want to ensure quality but it should cost you more money.

5 Tips for the Perfect Pedicure

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Fri, 15 Feb 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Photo by Jessica To'oto'o on Unsplash

If you find yourself with some downtime an at-home pedicure is a great way to unwind and relax. To get started let's gather up the essentials. You’ll need a bowl, washcloth, towel, some yummy smelling things, your favorite nail polish, and a bit of time. Here are 5 steps to get the most out of your DIY pedicure.

Soak Your Feet--

Fill a bowl with nice warm water and let your feet soak for about fifteen minutes. To make the foot bath even more enjoyable, add a bath bomb, bath salt, or essential oils to the water. This will give you a little aromatherapy while you enjoy your soak.

Wash Your Feet--

Before you pull your feet out of the water, take a soft cloth and wash your feet, gently rubbing away any dirt or grime from your daily life. If you have a foot scrub this is a great opportunity to pull it out for that extra soft finish. Once your feet are good and clean, pat them dry with a towel.

Clean Your Toes--

Now it’s time to get a little more nitty gritty with your toes. If you need to clip your toenails always remember to trim your nails straight across. This will help to prevent ingrown toenails and infection.

Next, you’ll want to give your feet a little moisture. Pull out your cuticle oil or lotion, whichever you have available, and thoroughly rub it into your toes and feet. This will help to lock in the moisture from your soak and give you nice smooth feet.

Slow Down With the Polish--

One mistake that a lot of people make is trying to rush through the nail polish process. They want the dark color of the bottle immediately so they glob on a whole bunch of paint in the first pass. By doing this you are actually slowing down the overall drying process and increasing the chance of your paint chipping.

To have long lasting paint, it is best to do thin coats of paint a few minutes apart so the paint has a chance of setting. Remember that less is more in the nail polish world.

Take a Load Off--

Now it is time to let your nails dry. How quickly your nails dry will depend on how thickly you applied your nail polish. This takes time so don't try and rush the process. Instead kick your feet up and snuggle in for a good book or a nice movie.

If you’re interested in keeping your feet feeling soft, then put a little lotion or oil on your feet each night before you go to bed and throw a pair of socks over the top. This will help your feet to stay moisturized and keep from cracking during dry weather.

You don’t have to take 30 minutes to an hour to help your feet stay fresh and looking great. Just a little bit of time once a week will keep your toes sandal-ready after your initial DIY pedicure.

How to Follow Your Keto Diet If You're on a Budget

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Fri, 08 Feb 2019 00:12:00 +0000

According to the general belief, keto diet looks like an extremely effective way of losing weight might drill holes in your pocket otherwise. On the contrary, one could replace the regular packaged and processed food from their plates to the more affordable and healthier keto diet.

Image Source

This article puts together some of how keto diet could be budget friendly. Let's take a look.

Figure out a Budget Before You Start Dieting--

Working out a budget is an essential step to any planning, same goes for a keto diet. You need to be sure about the weight of your pocket before you start with the procedure. The following steps can help you plan a budget and abide by it. There are many budgeting tips you can follow to make it work.

Make a Meal Plan, Shop Accordingly--

The most critical step to making the budget successful is by planning your meals elaborately. Do ample research on the things that you can and can’t eat while on a keto diet. If necessary, do not hesitate to consult your dietitian. Decide well before in hand, what you want to eat for the week and only then go shopping for your groceries.

You can cut down on your lunch or dinner and replace it with a hot beverage, like coffee. This gives you an instant energy boost while keeping both your calorie count and budget in check. There are many creative ways to save money when you’re having a tight budget.

Don't Miss Out On Sales--

Sales might help you get through your keto diet, a great deal. Make sure to keep track of the local grocery store sales and adjust your shopping dates to those of the sale to save some bucks. You should bag your keto products during these sales so as to handle your budget effectively.

Cook Your Meal Instead of Buying It--

Buying packaged meals will always cost you much more than the expenses of cooking a meal.

However, with the use of a food processor, you can easily make your diet meals at home without spending heavily. Processed food bought from the supermarkets will cost higher, plus there are elevated chances of adulteration in the products. By cooking your meals, you will not only have firm control over your budget, but you can also be ensured of the quality of the meal.

Shop in Bulk, Cook in Bulk--

One foolproof way to control your keto expenses is buying groceries in bulk. Other than the raw items, you can always buy dry groceries in vast quantities without the fear of those getting spoiled. The raw items too can be stored in the deep freezer for more than a week. So, the next time you go shopping– make sure you buy enough for the fortnight at the least. Keep the essentials like olive oil, nut, and seed butter, and flour free meals handy. Do not complicate the process, try to keep your meals as simple as possible.

Cut down Snacks and High Calorie Foods--

For obvious reasons, you would eventually have to cut down the purchase and consumption of snacks and other food items that contain high calories. These products incur a massive expense, ruining both your budget and keto diet at the same time. So, it would only be wise if you cut these down, right at the beginning of your process.

Takeaway:

Difficult as it may seem in the initial days, maintaining a keto diet budget is not much of a challenging task. If one can be determined enough, proper planning right from the start and a few things kept in mind can make the process of keto dieting a whole lot easier while also making it significantly budget friendly.

7 Ways to Have Fun in College During the Winter

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Fri, 08 Feb 2019 00:06:00 +0000

Photo by Helena Lopes on Unsplash

Are you tired of the cold and you’re looking for ways to still have fun instead of just be stuck inside of your approved student housing? If it is snowy, that does not mean you should stay inside the house for the rest of the winter waiting for the snow to melt. Put on a warm coat, gloves, a hat, and head outside. There are lots of things to do, from skiing to snowball fights.

Skiing/Snowboarding--

There are few things more exhilarating than speeding down a mountain with wood/plastic strapped to your feet. If you don’t know how to ski or snowboard, don’t worry. You can always start on the bunny hill and work your way up to the larger slopes. These particular activities can get pricey, but if you have a little extra cash there are few things more fun than this.

Snowman--

Maybe you don’t want to go too far from home so you can hurry back inside and get warmed up. Grab your friends and head over to the nearest park. You can build snowmen, winter forts and even have a snowball fight.

Ice Structures--

Do a search near you to see if there are any ice creations you can go see. Maybe you’ll get lucky and find ice caves, a frozen waterfall or even an ice castle!

Frozen Bubbles--

If the temperature is in the negatives then you could try freezing bubbles outside. Sometimes if the air is cold enough and you blow bubbles, the bubbles will freeze in the air and then slowly drift to the ground.

Sledding--

Drag your roommates with you, find a good hill and then get yourself a cheap sled from the store. You can find one for around $5 at Walmart or Target. That little piece of plastic can provide hours of entertainment for you and your friends.

Hot Chocolate Party--

It doesn’t necessarily have to be snowing for you do to this, but cold weather is the best time to host a Hot Cocoa Party. All it takes is a canister or two of hot chocolate, access to hot water and maybe some candy canes and marshmallows. Just ask the people that come to BYOM (bring your own mug) so you don’t have tons of dishes to wash.

On-Campus Entertainment--

If you’re looking for some indoor entertainment then head up to your college campus. There should be a list of performances available on your campus website from choir concerts to guest performers. If you don’t want to sit and watch a show, then join a club or head over to a dance. I’m sure you can find one happening somewhere.

You are only limited by your willingness to get out and find something to do. There are tons of things going on, and if none of them seem like a good time, then you take charge and make something fun happen. Anything can be a party if you go at it with the right attitude.

Activities to Do Every Season of the New Year

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Tue, 05 Feb 2019 00:04:00 +0000

Were there things that you wanted to do over this past year that you just couldn’t seem to get to? Not to worry, because another year is starting, and this is the year you can do it all!

When we make plans ahead of time, they are much more likely to happen than if we simply state, “I want to do this” without giving much thought as to when or where.

In this new year, we want you to be able to do all of those fun things that you weren’t able to. If you’re not quite sure what those are, maybe we can help you recreate your bucket list for 2019.

Winter Activities--

In the winter, there are always tons of fun activities that we forget about in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But before you let the winter months pass you by and have to wait until next winter, pick a couple of these activities to add to your new year goals.

Learn to ski
Learn to snowboard
Go ice skating
Build a snowman
Go sledding
Have a hot chocolate bar

Spring Activities--

With Spring being a little further away, you have more time to plan for the activities you want to do then. Think about the local spring happenings in your community and what you missed out on this past year. Is there anything you need to plan for in advance so you can take for advantage of the opportunity? We have a few ideas to help you out.

Run a 5k
Dance in the rain
Go hiking in the mountains
Drive somewhere you’ve never been before
Finally try that new restaurant

Summer Activities--

Summers always seem to pass us by the quickest. There’s always so much we want to accomplish and never enough time to do it. But this year, we want you to make it a resolution to pick some things that you want to do this summer, and make it happen. Maybe some of these things are on your list.

Go camping
Try glamping
Sleep under the stars
Swim in the ocean
Take a vacation
Have a bonfire
Host a back to school party
Go boating
Try fishing
Go to a drive-in theater

Fall Activities--

Fall is always a wonderful time of year with tons of fun activities surrounding the harvest and Halloween. But with school starting, sports games, and for many of us our busy seasons at work, it can be hard to find the time to just enjoy the seasonal joys. Just pick one or two things that you want to do this next fall, and you’ll be able to find the time to do them.

Go to a corn maze (check out this awesome corn maze locator)
Pick apples
Go through a haunted house
Host a harvest party
Make a costume
Go to a costume party
Go to a pumpkin patch
Carve a pumpkin

There are some many fun seasonal activities, and it’s easy to get caught up in the everyday busyness of life, but try to find the time in this new year to enjoy these activities. You’ll be happy that you did.

Moving Out

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Mon, 10 Dec 2018 23:22:00 +0000

Moving can be a fun experience. It most definitely is a hectic, stressful, and overwhelming experience, but a little fun can be found in everything if you look for it. For one, most of the time people come to help you move—it is not necessarily a solo experience so there is a lot of bonding time with family and friends. Secondly, moving almost instantaneously promotes a fresh start whichever way you tend to look at it. All places are different; whether you choose a condominium, a single family home, or an apartment. Having to identify with a new type of living is a fun way to learn more about yourself and life in general.

Getting Rid of All the Trash--

One of my favorite things about moving is getting rid of all of the garbage. Straight trash! Broken items that have been sitting around for years that ‘were going to get fixed’. Moving does not allow time to deal with that. It is time to give that up, and move on with life. One way to handle the stress of all the garbage is to hire a dumpster company like Eagle Dumpster Rental, all you do is put the trash in the dumpster, and they haul it away. It is so easy! No need to fuss about trash.

Getting Rid of Stuff You Won’t Use Again--

As you are moving, packing is a necessity. As you are packing, it is inevitable that you will come across multiple items that you just will not use again. It is safe to say that they are not dumpster worthy, but you do not want to bring them along with you on your move. You can easily donate them to your local thrift store, or pass them along to one of your friends who may need it. Moving really alleviates the consumerism that we are all pressured with in our lives. We can finally see what simplicity is and live with it, if only for a short time!

Starting Fresh--

There is nothing like a little fresh paint and clean carpet to clear your mind. Moving from a house that you have been at for years can dull your mind and creativity. When you move, it is a fresh start. You can do anything! You can decorate how you want, even if it is very different from what your previous house looked like. Since it will be a new house, the set up will be different, and even that will calm your mind into thinking differently. Overall, it is exciting and not just bad news like everybody makes it out to be. I have moved seven times myself, and with each move, I have found a new piece of myself that I have discovered from the prior move. It is an experience, and one to look forward to!

Why You Should Give Homemade Gifts This Year

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Mon, 10 Dec 2018 22:53:00 +0000

Christmas is quickly approaching, which means you’re seeing more people bustling about the stores rushing to get their holiday gift shopping done. With all the hustle and bustle of the season, sometimes we get lost in the busyness of it all and don’t put as much thought into the things that really matter.

If you’re planning on giving gifts to your friends and loved ones this year, try doing homemade gifts.

Why?

It’s More Meaningful--

Homemade gifts say “thoughtful” much more than a generic giftset from a national retailer. It shows the receiver of the gift that you care by putting thought, time, and effort into creating something unique just for them.

It’s Unique--

Where else are you going to find this sweet homemade gift that you come up with? Every homemade gift is different, and that gives it so much more personal value than anything you might buy.

It’s Economical--

You can save money by making a homemade gift instead of buying something - depending on what you make of course. If you can save money by making something just as good or better than the mass manufacturers do, and it’s unique and personal, then why not do it?

It’s Environmentally Friendly--

Think about the packaging that you save when you make something yourself than if you buy it at the store with the plastic tags and wrappings. Also, if you’re good at upcycling old items into a new and unique gift, then you’re helping in another way too.

It’s Fun!

Gift giving is more fun when you get to make the gift, instead of just taking a few minutes to make a monetary transaction. Taking the time to plan the gift out and getting the right supplies, and then the actual process of making the gift is so fun, especially as you think about the person that you are doing it for.

What can make it even more fun is getting together with a friend or family member to make gifts together.

You Don’t Have to Start from Scratch--

If you don’t feel that you have the skills or know-how to make a gift from scratch, there are options to help you still add that personal touch. Craft stores have kits that you can put together easily, while still adding that personal and unique element to it. One such online store, Thoughts in Vinyl, has adorable wooden letter craft kits that you can purchase the base supplies and add all of the decorative elements yourself, or you can get everything from them that you need.

Some Ideas--

If you know you want to do some homemade gifts this year but aren’t quite sure where to start, here are some fun and relatively simple ideas to help you out. (And if you want some great tutorials for how to make them, just search for it on Pinterest.)

Fudge (or any sweet treats)
Candles
Fleece tied blankets
Photo album
Scrapbook
Hot cocoa mix
Sugar scrub
Bath bombs
Decorative mugs
Mason jar snowglobe
Microwaveable heat packs
Homemade Crayons (for kids or the quirky artist)
Homemade soap
Infused olive oil
Dip mix
Dry soup mix in a mason jar
Artwork
Coasters
Jewelry
Potpourri

6 Ways to Keep Your Carpet Clean This Winter

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Jackson) — Mon, 03 Dec 2018 21:50:00 +0000

Snow is pretty on the outside, but not so pretty on the inside and on your carpets.

Winter means building snowmen, going sledding, making snow angels and walking in a winter wonderland. But what winter means for your poor carpets is dirt, mud, and unwanted spots from things like rock salt.

Winter may be nice to look at, but when it’s tracked into your house and onto your carpets it can be pretty upsetting.

So how can keep your carpets looking nice and clean during the winter months?

Here are six ways to keep your carpet clean this winter and keep the ice outside where it belongs and not anywhere near the indoors and your carpets where it shouldn’t be.

#1 - Have a Spot for People to Put Their Shoes

Entryways are more than just a place for people to walk through to get inside your home, they can also be placed where people can take off their shoes to not track mud and dirt all over your nice carpets.

If you provide something like a bench or basket for people to be able to sit down and take their shoes off the chances of them forgetting and tracking dirt all over your carpet go way down.

You can teach your kids to do this as well, especially after they have come back into the house after playing in the snow or walking home from school.

#2 - Use Rugs

Rugs can become your best friend and one of the main ways to protect your carpets this winter.

Lay down some washable rugs in high traffic areas that way these rugs get most of the dirt and grime instead of your carpets. The reason it's good to get ones that are washable is that every few weeks or so you can wash those rugs and keep them looking fresh and new just like your untouched carpet underneath them.

#3 - Vacuum a Lot

Wintertime is not the time to start slacking when it comes to taking care of your carpets and keeping them looking nice and new.

Make sure to vacuum at least once a week, or more if possible because that is one of the best ways to pick up rock salt or other dirt that could be brought inside that house.

#4 - Clean up the Spots

If you notice big stains or spots around your carpets clean them up as quickly as you can.

Doing spot removal will make sure that your carpets overall appearance is good as well as preventing those spots from being able to settle into the carpet.

#5 - Call a Professional

If keeping up with your carpets cleanliness and appearance seem overwhelming this winter contact a professional carpet cleaning service such as Idaho Steam Cleaning to come in and give your carpets a deep clean.

If you want to wait until the end of the winter to get your carpets deep cleaned to ensure your carpets are looking nice and fresh for springtime that is a really great idea as well.

#6 - Shovel the Snow

A great way to ensure not as much snow and mud is tracked into your home and onto your carpets is to keep your porch and driveway clear of snow.

You can also try to enter into your home using alternate methods like the garage which can prevent snow from coming into the house as well.