The Internet's Impact on Homeschooling

Just like the Internet has changed the way we shop, communicate, and conduct business, it has also revolutionized the world of education. Now more than ever, it is easier to learn outside a traditional classroom setting. Many college students take at least one online course to earn either an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. Online education has extended past college students and now includes K-12 students, as well.

Homeschooling families have more freedom and flexibility when it comes to education options. The Internet has significantly increased education options, homeschooling resources, online forums, and curriculum programs. The following are ways that the Internet has completely changed homeschooling.

Allows for More Student Independence and Less Parent Involvement

The Internet has brought about more and more at-home education methods. Accredited virtual schools and online homeschooling curriculums don’t require as much parent involvement as other at-home education methods.

Many parents assume that homeschooling will be time-consuming because it requires a lot of hand holding. Although this may be true for young learners, high school level students develop more independence around their education, especially if they are taking online courses. For most homeschool curriculums, parents or hired tutors must grade and review work to ensure the student is making progress.

Online schools require even less parent involvement because online teachers do the grading. This structure is especially helpful for parents who don’t have formal teacher training or work full- or part-time jobs.

Increases Education and Learning Options

Before the Internet, homeschooling families relied on textbooks and workbooks for their curriculum or created their own. Parents had to take charge of the entire learning process to either select or create a curriculum and teach their students the necessary subjects. The Internet, however, has made way for more and more education and learning methods. It really is impressive. So with so many dependent on the Internet and the knowledge that it brings, it's no wonder that many look to see how satellite internet works.

The Internet provides endless resources to help your student learn at home. Many different online curriculum programs and virtual schools are available to homeschooling families. Online homeschool curriculum provides Internet-based courses and resources for parents and students to be successful.

Online or virtual schools for K-12 students are also increasingly popular among families seeking alternative education methods. Online schools allow students to learn from teachers who are states away while attending classes from their home.

Many of these online schooling options are self-paced, so students can work through lessons as they master individual concepts. At the same time, if a student is struggling with a particular topic, they can receive extra help in this area. This is very beneficial for students with chronic illnesses or learning disabilities who may need frequent breaks.

Provides Online Resources and Technologies

The Internet gives homeschool students access to countless resources at home that helps them learn. Homeschool resources and learning technologies were limited before the Internet age. However, continuous advancements are being made in learning technologies.

Today, students can learn via e-readers, tablets, apps, digital coursework, and virtual schools. Parents also have access to a variety of resources to help them and their students get started with at-home education.

The Internet offers a plethora of information and resources. No longer are the days of students needing to spend hours sifting through textbooks or encyclopedias to write research papers. With the help of Google, information and multimedia resources are at students’ fingertips.

Makes Learning Fun with Gamification 

Games are a new way of learning. Gamification has helped create educational video games for students to learn about numerous subjects, such as coding, spelling, and foreign languages. These games allow students of all ages to learn about different topics and practice different skills in a fun and exciting way. The gamification of learning has also allowed students to study while riding in the car, traveling for the holidays, or waiting for appointments. Learning has become much more fun with the availability of learning with games on their phones, tablets, or computers.

Helps Students with At-Home Education 

Online schools and homeschool curriculums allow students to complete school and progress through grades from the comfort of their home or wherever they have Internet access. Students with disabilities, anxiety or depression, or chronic illnesses don’t have to worry about falling behind. Many students struggle to keep up in a classroom setting, so online education methods allow them to work at their own pace without falling behind in a traditional classroom setting. Likewise, students who are receiving treatment and recovering from an illness can make feeling better their number one priority.

Offers a Space for Online Homeschool Communities

Fostering a successful at-home education requires a support system. The Internet has made it easier for homeschooling families to connect with others who chose non-traditional schooling methods. Online forums and Facebook offer spaces for parents to discuss curriculums, education options, and homeschooling tips. Families can even connect with others in their area, which lets children make friends who are homeschooled, as well.

The Internet has affected almost every area of our lives, both positively and negatively. However, the impact that the digital age has had on education continues to benefit homeschooling families.

Sources:
https://www.noodle.com/articles/5-ways-the-internet-has-changed-homeschooling
https://www.nflcacademy.com/blog/5-ways-the-internet-has-changed-homeschooling

6 Ways to Connect with Your Teen

The teenage years can be a difficult time for parents to connect with their children, who are experiencing greater independence and relying more on relationships outside the home.
If it seems difficult to connect with your teen, take heart: these 6 tips will help you create the conditions on your end for a supportive relationship. 

Photo by Matheus Ferrero on Unsplash

1). Be Attentive to Their Mental Health
Life as a teen is filled with new challenges. Interpersonal relationships become more complex than they were before, and with puberty comes romantic attraction and all its attendant hopes and heartbreaks.

Additionally, many teens are far more conscious of their appearance and their status relative to their peers. With all of these pressures, it is easy enough to see how teens often struggle with depression and anxiety.

For parents, the challenge is often a matter of trying to connect and make a difference. It can be emotionally difficult for parents, not least because so many of us remember what it was like to be a teen and long to impart the wisdom gained from all the years we have lived since then.

It’s important to be attentive to your teen’s mental health with a genuine desire to listen and acknowledge their feelings.

You may find it easy to see the cognitive and emotional mistakes your teen is making, but it is important to listen and take their problems seriously. The heartbreak of being rejected by a crush, for example, may be emotionally painful to your teen in part because it is a new experience. Take the time to listen to them, and understand they are probably feeling insecure about how worthy they are of being loved.

Give your teen enough space to feel grief or process, but not so much space that they become isolated and shut away. Pay attention to any talk or behaviors that may point toward self-harm. If need be, consider taking your teen to a professional mental health therapist for teen anxiety treatment or counseling for depression.

2). Encourage Socialization at Home
Being a teenager is a time for young people to stretch their wings and achieve more independence than they had as younger children. Their friends and peer groups start to displace the family as the main sources of social activity. They also discover romance and dating – and, after a certain age, driving.

For many parents, this can be a fraught, difficult time, as they get used to their teens becoming more grownup. However, this is precisely why it is such a good idea to encourage socialization in the home.

Turn your home into a welcoming, inviting place where your teen and their friends can come over and hang out after school or on weekends. Invite your teen’s friends over for dinner, and maybe put on a game night on the weekend.

Photo by Craig Adderley from Pexels

3). Family Dinners
In addition to inviting your teen’s friends over, you can establish family dinner time as a way to promote togetherness for the whole family. Your teen doesn’t have to be present every evening, particularly if they have work or dinner at one of their friends’ homes, but try to insist that they participate some of the time.

Family dinner times can be a good opportunity for everyone to reconnect, relax, and share experiences. Your teen may not always want to be present, but try to gently but firmly insist that they be present some of the time.

4). Make Time for Them One-On-One
Family dinners are a wonderful way to connect with everyone, but particularly if you have a larger family it may also be a good idea to schedule some one-on-one time with your teen.
Whether you do lunch, dinner, or an evening hike at a nearby park or other area, try spending some time with your teen and encouraging them to talk about whatever is on their minds. Ask them how their friends are doing, how they like their classes, and talk about anything else that seems relevant – their interests, hobbies, things that are going on with them.

5). Take Interest in Their Activities and Hobbies 
It’s also a good idea to encourage your teen to be active, to get involved in healthy activities like athletics, fitness activities, and various hobbies.

Take an active interest in your teen’s activities and encourage them to keep going even and especially when the going gets difficult – as it always does in any worthwhile endeavor.

Photo by Tirachard Kumtanom from Pexels

6). Help Them Plan for the Future 
We’ve talked before about getting your teen to talk about college goals, and this speaks to one of the more important ways you can help your teen: take the time and effort to help them plan for their future.

Whether or not college is in your teen’s future, make sure you spend time with them helping them to work through the all-important questions about their future career and life goals. They’ll thank you later.

Conclusion
Relationships are a two-way street, and that becomes ever more true of the parent-child relationship during the teenage years. While you can’t control how your teenager responds to your efforts, these 6 strategies should help you create the best possible conditions for encouraging rapport. 

Health Benefits of Eating Meat Snacks

Although most people today prefer going vegan as their daily nutritional routine, we can't rule out that meat consumption has increased rapidly over the years.

Meat is an essential source of protein which must be included together with other types of food for one to have a balanced diet. It is often classified into white, red, or processed products.

Given the fact that excessive consumption could be harmful to your body, consider consuming it sparingly and avoid processed meat. With this said, let's look at the various health benefits of eating meat. For healthy products, you can checkout The New Primal meat snacks.

1. Excellent source of protein

This type of food is known to be a complete source of protein in terms of quality and quantity. For every 3-ounce portion consumed, you get 21 grams of protein, which is the recommended dietary portion for an average woman.

Moreover, our bodies acquire amino acids that cannot be made by the body or consumed from other types of food.

Eating animal protein is also linked to improved muscle and skin tissues. Apart from this, many studies show that it is associated with strong bone formation, lowering the risk of getting fractures.

2. Improves metabolism

We all love having a lean and fit body. For this reason, it's essential to include foods that boost metabolism in our diet.

Increased metabolism helps break down fats in the body, making it easier to distribute them evenly. Research has it that animal food sources are a good source of vitamin B-12.
Vitamin B-12 improves the production of digestive juices in the stomach, which in turn increases metabolism and promotes fullness by reducing hunger.

3. Boost brain health

Everyone wants to be considered smart and sharp at all times. The best way to achieve that is by increasing your daily intake of omega-3 fatty acids.

Organic food like fish, beef, chicken, goat, and pork are considered to have the highest concentration of omega-3s. In this case, organic foods are a better option when it comes to the provision of omega-3 than non-organic.

Besides, medical specialists worldwide recommend daily omega-3 intake to help in the overall mental growth. See this link to see more reasons for eating meat https://www.businessinsider.com/reasons-to-eat-meat-2013-9?IR=T

4. Boosts strong immune system

An excellent immune system allows the body to fight diseases and ensures you stay healthy mostly when there is a flu or any other viral outbreak.

Therefore, it's in your best interest to incorporate food rich in zinc in your diet. According to various studies, zinc is commonly found more in beef than in other non-organic foods like cereals.

Likewise, it is better absorbed from organic meat. In case you accidentally cut yourself, the amino acids in beef works to speed up the healing process of the torn muscle tissues in due time.

5. Increases energy levels 

Animal protein, like red meat, is an excellent source of iron. Iron is a very crucial nutrient in the body, especially for pregnant women, adolescents, and premenopausal.

Also, it increases the production of hemoglobin found in red blood cells. The primary role of hemoglobin is to transport oxygen across the body via the blood cells. This means that iron plays an essential role in maintaining the body's energy levels which reduces.

According to health experts, the body absorbs heme iron (found in animal beef pork or mutton among others) faster than non-heme iron found in plants. Plus, if you have an iron deficiency, you are likely to have severe migraines, shortness of breath, and fatigue.

6. Lipid Profile and Cardiovascular Health

Excessive consumption of starch or carbohydrate is a cardiovascular risk factor. This is why medics recommend replacing that with fruits, animal proteins, and healthy fats.

A low carbohydrate meat plan has a minor effect on the blood cholesterol hence making it heart-healthy. Furthermore, it is worth noting that the body treats saturated fats from processed and non-processed flesh differently.

For instance, a freshly cooked beef steak and a piece of sausage will have similar saturated fats, but the latter will have a more negative effect on your health. Click here to find out more about some of the healthy meat products you can consume.

Conclusion:

Eating meat has more benefits than disadvantages. This is because it comes with a compelling number of nutrients that contribute to a healthy body. Plus, it is also delicious and refreshing when cooked well. However, to protect yourself from various health risks that may arise from eating it, avoid burnt and non-processed meat.

Get Your Last-Minute Holiday Shopping Done With Ease At BI-LO

This is a sponsored post in partnership with BI-LO. All opinions are my own.

In case you haven't realized it, we are in the final days leading up to the winter holidays. It feels like it was December 1st yesterday. If you still haven't done any shopping or need to grab some last-minute items, be sure to stop by your local BI-LO for some great deals on everything you need. Whether it's a party tray for the office potluck, or gift wrapping supplies, BI-LO has you covered with their amazing sale prices. I was browsing around and found so many goodies! Check out some of my finds.

Flowers or plants are always a great last-minute gift for co-workers, neighbors, teachers, or for the hostess with the mostest!

Check out these BI-LO Holiday Deals: 

Stay Healthy + Receive a FREE Ham

The flu has been on the rise recently and no one wants to be sick during the holidays. From now until Dec. 24, all BI-LO pharmacy customers can receive a FREE Smithfield Butt or Shank Portion Ham when they receive a no-cost* flu shot at any in-store pharmacy. *With most insurance plans. See pharmacy for details.

Need a Quick Meal? Deli Meal Deals may be the Solution!

BI-LO has Great deals on convenient deli party platters, dips and spreads, grab-and-go entrees and sides, fresh salads and more!

Gift Cards & Last-Minute Gifts

Get the gift that keeps on giving with THREE TIMES the BI-LO Reward points when you by gift cards for your friends and loved ones…and maybe even yourself!
Exclusions:  All BI-LO gift cards, Visa cards, Mastercards, American Express cards, reloadable cards and prepaid debit cards.

BI-LO also has great deals on last-minute gifts including the Garth Brooks Legacy Collection that includes 7 Vinyl LPs & 7 CDs and was just reduced in price today to $39.99! This would be a great gift for your favorite country music fan.

BI-LO also has great stocking stuffers, holiday bouquets and much more for everyone on your holiday shopping list.

Giving Opportunity

Looking to give back and make a difference to those in need? Now through Dec. 24, BI-LO is inviting customers to “Give A Little, Feed A Lot” to fight hunger in our communities by purchasing a $5 prepared bag of non-perishable food items or by rounding up grocery totals at BI-LO store registers. Each donation and $5 holiday bag purchased will be distributed directly to member food banks in the Feeding America® network.

Holiday Hours for Last Minute Gifters

If you need a last minute gift or ingredient for your favorite dish, BI-LO will be open for modified hours on Christmas Eve!

• Christmas Eve/Day: All BI-LO stores and liquor stores will open at their normal hours until 9 p.m. on Christmas Eve and will remain closed on Christmas Day. In-store pharmacies will close at 7 p.m. on Christmas Eve and remain closed during the Christmas holiday. 
• New Year’s Eve/Day: To celebrate the New Year, all BI-LO stores and liquor stores will be open on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day at their normal hours and will close at 10 p.m. (or regular close of business, if earlier). In-store pharmacies will close at 7 p.m. on New Year’s Eve and will reopen from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on New Year’s Day

I think many people sleep on the idea of last-minute holiday shopping at the grocery store. There are so many great grab-and-go options. Of course it doesn't hurt to rack up those BI-LO Reward points. Find a BI-LO near you. Thank you so much for stopping by today. Happy Holidays to you all!

Choosing The Safest Car Seat

If you are a mother, the safety of your child comes before anything else. Keeping them safe during car rides, therefore, is extremely important. When traveling with a small child between your home or the shop, you need to ensure they are as safe and secure as possible.

Here in America, car accidents are on the rise. Luckily, manufacturers of car seats are always striving to create the safest car seats to give mothers peace of mind. Thanks to this, the NHTSA has reported that thanks to child seats, fatal accidents have been reduced by a whopping 71%.

Choosing the right seat can be a bit of a challenge for most moms. With many different brands, it can be hard to pick the best one. So we have listed some important factors for you to consider.

Ensure the car seat meets federal standards

The first thing you need to do is make sure that any seat you are looking at has been crash tested. It needs to, at a minimum, meet the federal standards.

Don't buy used

Never, ever buy a used car seat. When buying second hand, you have no clue what kind of history the car seat has. If they have been in accidents or left in damp garages, they could be compromised. This means that if you ever end up in a collision, they may not perform as well as they did when they were new. There may also have been a recall on the product. When it comes to the car seat, saving a few bucks is not worth the compromise whatsoever. If you're going to take your child's safety seriously, you should try to only look into premium car seats for your baby, as you need to rely on it to keep them secure and protected. This is a guarantee you're only likely to get when you choose a car seat made with high quality materials by a reputable company.

Understand the different types of car seats

There are a huge range of car seats on the market, just like there are a huge range of the ages, size, and weight of different children. The best one for your child is going to be one that suits these factors. Make sure you look for recommendations on different models to ensure your child has the best fitting child seat. Not only does this protect them, it also means they will be as comfortable as possible during your journeys.

If your child is over the age of 4 and is over 3 feet tall, it may be best to go for a forward-facing booster seat. These are designed for kindergarten through to primary school, and they usually secured via seat belt.

For babies and infants, it is usually best to stick with a rear-facing car seat for as long as possible. This is because rear-facing car seats provide the best support due to their design. When the car receives an impact, the hard casing of the car seats allow them to take the brunt of the impact, protecting your little one from the most harm.

When it comes to your children, safety is of the utmost importance. Hopefully, with the information we have provided above you will be able to make an informed decision on the best seat for your precious little ones.

How to Find the Perfect Mattress: The 3-Step Buying Guide

While just the thought of visiting a furniture store may seem a bit daunting, realize you have more options to buy a new mattress, sofa or end table than ever before. Thanks to the likes of warehouse clubs and online furniture retailers, finding these and other essential items at a fair price doesn't have to cause you undue stress.

And if you do a little homework and follow the right steps, you'll quickly be able to find and buy a desirable new mattress that meets your needs. Here are three steps to help narrow down your search.

1. Consider the Level of Firmness You Need

For most people, the quality of sleep they get every night largely depends on the firmness of their mattress. Of course, some prefer either a softer or firmer mattress, or something in between. The firmness level is set by the tension of the springs or in the overall make of the mattress, such as whether it's made with memory foam or has a pillow topper.

All these factors and features affect the feel of the mattress, so it's important that you test out a new mattress before buying one. Lay down on different mattresses on the sales floor at a furniture store like Jerome's to determine the most ideal option.

2. Set a Budget

Buying a new mattress can be costly. So, before you head to the nearest mattress retailer, determine a rough estimate on how much you're willing to spend on a new one. For a new, high-quality mattress that will last you a decade and meet your comfort and sleeping needs, plan to spend at least $1,000, according to Consumer Reports.

After determining a price range, you can more easily narrow down your search and make finding the right mattress an easier process. And while there are certainly any number of cheaper options on the market, know that they tend to be rated lower for quality and longevity.

3. Choose a Mattress Type

Determining your ideal mattress type will largely depend on the level of firmness you desire, your budget and any special features you may want. For instance, a memory foam mattress is a great option if you require more firmness and want to wake up with less stiffness and pain in your back. However, these types of mattresses can be one of the more expensive options, especially if you choose the Tempur-Pedic brand.

Meantime, hybrids are a new type of mattress that are manufactured with a combination of memory foam and coils, and they tend to be a lot more cost-effective than a traditional memory foam mattress. Conversely, if you’re looking for a softer option, pillow-top mattresses offer an extra layer of cushion to provide more comfort over the coils of the mattress.

Other mattress types offer extra features like superior cooling properties to create a cooler mattress than traditional memory foams, as well as adjustable folding features that allow you to sit up comfortably in bed.

Investing in the Right Mattress for You

In selecting the most ideal mattress, understand your options and take inventory of your needs. Ultimately, the one you desire most will fit at the intersection of your budget and your sleeping needs. Once you have an idea of which option will best serve your needs, visit a mattress retailer in-person in order to compare and contrast different options to ensure you select the right one.

Six Simple and Easy Ways to Save More Money

Did you know that almost one-third of people didn’t save any money in the last twelve months because they had no spare money to actually put into a savings account? Saving money is something that most of us want to do, but when it feels like all your earnings are quickly disappearing on monthly expenses, you’re not in a good place. The good news is that there are several money-saving methods that you may want to try that can be changed to suit various budgets. And, don’t forget that even saving small amounts can add up to more than you realize.

Photo by Lukas from Pexels

The 1-cent saving challenge:

You might have already heard about a $1 per week saving challenge - the idea is that over the fifty-two weeks of the year, you boost the amount that you save each week by just one dollar. So, you save $1 in week one, $2 in week two, and so on. This can be a great way to save, but since you have to save more as the year goes on, it’s not suitable for all budgets. So, here’s an alternative - the 1c savings challenge. Rather than saving $1 per week, save just 1 cent a day and increase it by 1 cent as the days go on. If you stick to the plan for the full year, you’ll end up with over $650, and the most you’ll have to save in one go is just $3.65.

Photo by Josh Appel on Unsplash

Get a money box or piggy bank:

A piggy bank is a tried-and-tested money-saving technique. You might have had one as a child, so why not carry this on as an adult! You could use a jar instead of a proper piggy bank, or if you’re tempted to dip into your savings you can get jars and money tins that you need to open with a tin opener or even smash open quite cheaply in pound shops. Over time, you can save more than you realize from just popping your loose change into a jar.

Round your bank account balance down:

Rounding down the balance in your bank account is an easy way to save some money here and there. Log into your bank account online daily or weekly and round the money down, then transfer the money into a different savings account. For example, if you have $251.45 in your account, you’d transfer $1.45, leaving you with $250. Although there might not always be a lot of money to round down, it also comes with the added bonus of encouraging you to keep a watchful eye on your bank balance.

Use cashback sites:

Did you know that you can get money just for spending on websites that you were going to use anyway? Cashback sites and apps like TopCashBack or Quidco are a great method of saving money on the things that you were already going to buy, especially when it comes to essentials like switching utilities, broadband or insurance. Whenever you need to buy something online, take some time to visit a cashback site first and search for the site that you need. If it’s listed, visiting through the cashback site instead of going directly could earn you some money.

Consolidate your debts:

Using a loan to consolidate your debts is a great way to spend less on repaying credit, if you’re struggling to pay them off otherwise. Taking out a personal loan that provides you with enough money to pay off everything else that you owe often means that you can save money as you’ll switch to having just one easy to manage monthly payment rather than several. If you only have one debt to pay off at the moment, then consider using any money that you save using the above methods to put towards the debt and get it paid off faster.

Use cash more often:

Finally, getting into the habit of spending cash rather than using your debit or credit card can be a great way to help you get a better handle on your expenditures. Make sure that you have enough money in your bank account to cover monthly expenses like your rent and bills and take out cash at the beginning of the week or month for everything else. Having the cash there will make it easier for you to not go over your budget - you could even sort the cash into different envelopes for different things like food, socializing, etc.

Did you find these tips helpful? Let us know in the comments.

Create A Family Photo Wall With CanvasDiscount [Giveaway]

Do you ever look around your home and think about the things you have been meaning to do for a long time? One of those things for me is to get some pictures, art or really anything up on my bare walls. We have lived in our home for almost 2 decades and still have so many bare walls. We tend to have more minimalist taste when it comes to decorating our home, but I do love displaying family photos.

I have been wanting to have a family gallery-style wall, and finally started it this year. I still have a little way to go, but feel like it is coming along pretty well so far. We have pictures that have been taken over the years that are very much worthy of being displayed. One of my favorite styles of photos is canvas prints. I really do love the look of a photo that almost looks like a painting when it is printed on a canvas. I knew I need to add a couple more family photos so I used CanvasDiscount.com to order exactly what I needed.

CanvasDiscount.com offers a huge variety of sizes and styles of canvas prints to fit your budget. Since I had tighter areas that I needed canvas prints for, I went with a vertical prints in sizes 12" x 16". They were the perfect size, and the prices were so good at just $25 each. The website is user-friendly, and I was able to upload my photos and create my whole order from start to finish in about 10 minutes. It does help a lot when you already know which photos you want to use. Check out these gorgeous canvas prints we had made.

The quality is excellent, and the colors are rich and vibrant. Also, the shipping time was super fast. Right now, you can get up to 5 FREE MIXPIX® plates from CanvasDiscount.com just by going through this link: http://bit.ly/momfiles. I absolutely love the idea of an entire collage of canvas prints on a wall. Speaking of which, look at how nice our two canvas prints look with the existing photos we have on the wall above our couch. All I need to do now is add some decorative signs and plaques to finish it off. By the way, canvas prints make nice gifts for the holidays!

Be sure to stay connect to CanvasDiscount.com for product updates and discount on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

Giveaway

Our friends at Canvasdiscount.com are providing a $50 code to their site for one Mom Files reader to win. Enter below: a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway is open to U.S. Residents only and ends on December 19, 2019. Must follow rules in Rafflecopter. One winner will be chosen randomly. Mom Files is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

Thank you so much CanvasDiscount.com for providing us with a code for complimentary canvas prints. All opinions are our own. 

Projects We Tackled In 2019

This past year seems to have gone by so quickly and makes me take time to reflect on things that we accomplished in our household, as well as plan for the upcoming new year. We decided on buying a lot less stuff in 2019, and donated a lot of things that were no longer serving us in a positive way. We made a list of household projects that we wanted to get done, and thankfully we were able to check off those boxes!

Photo by Camille Brodard on Unsplash

We started out with some plumbing repairs which we still have another part to complete. Thankfully we replaced our ancient water heater with a brand new one and got some re-piping done. The plumbing job then led to a bathroom remodel in our hallway bath. We experienced some mishaps during the process, but it’s done and we are planning on the downstairs bathroom remodel. We will take all of the lessons we learned from the first one into the second project.

Rocco is enjoying our cozy new carpet

Another big project that we got done was having our upstairs carpeting replaced. We did our research at a local place that was highly recommended and we couldn’t be happier! It was so nice entertaining over the Thanksgiving holiday with a refreshed-looking home. I really think we will get a new dining room set early next year to replace our 15-year-old set. I was reading an article earlier this year that talked about having a custom table made or refurbished, and then purchasing chairs for your dining table. That might not be a bad idea since our actual table isn’t in bad condition. The chairs aren’t the most comfortable to sit on for extended periods of time. It might look nice if we got our table professionally refinished. Then we can spend our time looking for chairs that will suit our taste and needs.

Speaking of dining room, we got a quote for new flooring for the kitchen and dining areas. We just have to come up with what type and finish of flooring we want to go with. I am leaning towards the higher quality vinyl that looks like hardwoods. We have old vinyl now and the thing I like about it is that it’s easy to clean, and if you accidentally drop a cup or plate, it doesn't always break like it would on a hard tile floor. Decisions, decisions.

A couple more things that we also got done was getting our landing replaced at our front door. The wooden planks were getting rickety, so we had them all ripped out and replaced. We just have to get the wood stained once the weather gets warmer. For now we have to look at a two-toned deck, but that's okay. I also got a brand new washing machine to replace my 23-year-old one. Yes, we had it for 23 YEARS! Although my new machine is pretty and modern, I actually miss how the old school type works. Go figure!

I think that we will focus on one new project per quarter as our budget allows. Planning everything out ahead of time has really made it so much easier to get the projects set up and completed. We were super lucky to find good people who offer reasonable prices. Hopefully they will be able to get us on their schedule. Do you have any big home renovations or projects planned for the new year?

Ways To Unplug And Go Outdoors

The world is more connected than ever before, for better or worse. Although the Internet and improved telecommunications technology allow us to be in contact with almost anyone around the globe immediately, this can be useful and harmful. A recent study revealed that Americans spend up to 10 hours a day staring at screens watching television and surfing the Internet. While there are loads of benefits that come with our current dependence on technology, it also puts us in danger of missing some helpful experiences.

Even if we’re watching our DVRs from a park bench or scrolling through social media feeds poolside, we miss something when we make technology the primary focus of our lives. Too much screen usage means we’re most prone to sitting for too long, and probably indoors. There’s something to be said about the benefits of fresh air and sunlight, not to mention good old-fashioned exercise. That’s why it’s important to remember to unplug ourselves from technology often and get some face time with the real world.

Photo by Devon Janse van Rensburg on Unsplash

The perks of unplugging are numerous, especially if you spend that time outdoors. Studies have found that frequent exposure to social media can intensify feelings of depression and anxiety, not to mention the health issues that arise when we waste too much time sitting and consuming electronic media. Spending all your time indoors gawking at your screens also opens you to a lot of recycled air and artificial lighting, neither of which benefits you in terms of health.

Going outside and staying active, even if it’s simply relaxing in a nature preserve drawing a landscape, can do you a lot of good. You don’t have to become a rough outdoorsy type to get the benefits of the outdoors, either. There are plenty of simple ways you can unplug from technology and benefit from the outdoors. For example, you can take a walk throughout your local park or around your neighborhood. You can take up landscape painting or nature photography to utilize your artistic side while taking in some fresh air. Fishing and bird watching also are great ways to take up a hobby that doesn’t demand being plugged into a wall outlet. Or, taking a boat out onto the water can be relaxing as well as exhilarating.

Putting some limitations on your technology use also can lead to meaningful perks. You could think about trading in your smartphone for a simpler cellphone that is unable to connect to email or the Internet. You might consider putting a limit on your screen time the same way you would restrict your calorie intake on a diet. Reading a book instead of staring at your phone during your commute also can work wonders for your mood as a way to unplug.

As pleasant as it is that we’re all connected these days, it’s also necessary to remember to unplug. If you’re looking for ways to de-stress, the checklist accompanying this post can provide you with some basic tips. Use the unplugging checklist, and you may see some benefits right away in terms of your mood and well-being.

Ways To Unplug & Go Outdoors from Duck Bay Lodge

Best Places in Canada for Skiing

As USA Today notes, Whistler Blackcomb is visited by more skiers and boarders than any other resort in North America. If you want to enjoy easy access to some of the world's best slopes, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better place to purchase a vacation home or permanent residence among the Whistler homes for sale.

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This huge resort offers everything from beginner to expert terrain across nearly 8,200 acres with over 200 marked trails, bowl, and glade zones. There are three dozen lifts, including a 10-passenger gondola that has the greatest capacity of any lift on the continent bringing 4,000 skiers from the bottom to the top of Blackcomb every hour. Plus, the resort's village is like its own city, with an outdoor skating rink, tube park, and cinema along with countless dining and shopping options.

Sunshine Village, Banff National Park

Banff National Park hosts three ski resorts along the continental divide, with Sunshine Village Canada's highest elevation resort resulting in some of the highest above-the-treeline terrains in the country. Expect spectacular vistas of the dramatic Rocky Mountains in every direction along with challenging, rugged slopes for experts like Delirium Dive, voted as one of the most extreme runs in the world by CNN Travel. It even requires avalanche gear and a buddy. If you aren't up for that much of a heart-pounding thrill, among the 3,300 acres of ski terrain there's everything from groomed cruisers to big bowls too.

Mont Tremblant, Quebec

Mont Tremblant is easily accessible for epic skiing, located 80 miles north of Montreal. Especially picturesque with its storybook feel, it's often compared to Europe's ski towns with a unique Quebecois culture. The walkable village hosts a wide range of international eateries and one of the most vibrant après-ski scenes in the region. But it isn't just about the scenery and after-skiing fun - this is eastern Canada's premier resort with 665 acres of skiable terrain across four mountains with over 2,000 feet of vertical drop. It boasts the province's steepest run with a pitch of 42 degrees providing something for the experts too.

For those that want to switch things up every once in a while, Mont Tremblant also offers ice climbing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding.

Sun Peaks Resort, British Columbia

Sun Peaks, Canada's second-largest resort, is a town of its own, 45 minutes from Kamloops in the British Columbia interior. It has three mountains that are linked, spanning nearly 4,300 acres of diverse terrain - all without the crowds that you'll find in the more popular resorts. There's truly something for everyone from beginners to the advanced, plus the grooming is impeccable. After a day out on the slopes, you'll find a long list of dining options to feed your appetite, from cheap eats to upscale restaurants serving seafood and steaks.

Picking The Best Camera For Your 2020 Adventures

Gone are the days when only bloggers and photographers used good cameras and the rest of us relied on our mobile phones. Nowadays, everyone can be found browsing the cameras for sale to capture those special memories.

We all want the same thing: the best camera possible, with the most up to date equipment that will deliver sharp, stunning images. It is that simple. Photography is enjoying a moment thanks to social media and the rise of photoshoots for every occasion from a new baby to marking an engagement.

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So, here are a few tips if you are looking for a good quality camera to record those important memories. Whether you have a big occasion, such as a big family birthday or a wedding next year, a holiday, or you simply want to capture more candid moments amongst your family, here is what to look for in your photography equipment:

First, decide which type of camera you want

Cameras come in so many different forms and sizes. The main thing to consider is what type of photos you are aiming for and how much effort you want to put in to get them.

For example, are you prepared to switch lenses to change the focus and try out different effects? Do you want to learn photography skills along the way? Or, are you hoping for a more simple point and shoot type of camera?

From DSLR cameras to film cameras, instant and mirrorless cameras, there is a wide variety on offer. So, your first task is to research what each of them is and then decide what suits you.

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Think about what you will be using it for

Each family is different. Some like to relax by getting outdoors doing high octane sports and taking adrenaline-pumping action holidays. However, others prefer to stay cozy indoors watching Disney movies and playing board games!

Think about the situations you will be using the camera most of the time and therefore, what you will need from it. For example, you might benefit from an action camera that can get dynamic shots of all of your adventures, if you’re the sporty type.

Consider your budget

Rather than thinking about getting the most expensive camera in the shop because it will make you a better photographer, instead, think about what you want. Look at which features each camera has compared the next one, then think about whether you will use them.

If you are planning to take up photography as a bit of a hobby and learn more about the features as you go, you can see it as an investment buy. It makes it worth looking at cameras with more versatility. However, if you want something simple to use that just has an edge overusing your phone, then you probably don’t need to spend that much on it.

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Weight and fit

Probably the most underrated feature to consider is how much your camera weighs and whether it fits in your hand. If it is heavy and cumbersome, you are less likely to use it, no matter how fancy bells and whistles it is.

However, you will be more inclined to carry it around with you - either at home or on holiday - if it is easier to transport and hold in your hands, while exploring a new place. Therefore, it is worth checking out the dimensions and weight before you buy.

Fact or Fiction: Can Headphones Damage Your Hearing?

Our ears are very complex and yet so unassuming. But when they are not working, you may wonder if there was anything you could have done differently to better impact your quality of hearing. One frequently asked question regarding hearing loss or preventing hearing loss is, can headphones damage hearing? The short answer is yes, but maybe not for the reasons you may think. If you think your hearing has been impacted or damaged by unhealthy listening habits, check out these ITE and BTE hearing devices.

Photo by Wills M from Pexels

Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)

Our ears are designed to handle the sounds of our world, conversations, traffic, animals and natural phenomenon. But sounds that are too loud can damage our hearing. These high volume sounds can last only seconds or can be repeated or prolonged and have the same effect on our hearing. When the delicate structures in the inner ear are damaged, NIHL can be the result.

People of all ages can suffer from NIHL. But those who have jobs or partake in recreational activities that expose them to loud noises are more at risk than others. Those who encounter frequent gunshots, like shooting range employees and hunters, some types of musicians and construction workers are just some people who are at a higher risk of developing NIHL. But protective ear wear can help to reduce the likelihood.

What is Too Loud?

Sound is measured in units called decibels. Sounds that are 70 A-weighted decibels (dBA) or below are generally at safe levels and are unlikely to cause hearing problems. But sounds at or above 85 dBA can cause hearing loss. This means that the louder a sound is, less exposure is necessary to do damage or cause NIHL. Your distance from the sound’s origin will also play a role in the impact it has on your hearing. Here are some common sounds we encounter and their volume in decibels.

• Talking 60-70 dBA
• Movie Theaters 74-104 dBA
• Motorcycles and Motorsport Vehicles 80-110 dBA
• Headphones at Max Volume and Concerts 94-110 dBA
• Sirens 110-129 dBA 

  

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How Hearing Works

Hearing is an amazing and involved process that happens in nanoseconds. First, sound goes into the ear canal and vibrates the eardrum which vibrates three tiny bones. Then, the vibrations become fluid vibrations in the cochlea, causing hair cells to move and open stereocilia so that chemicals can turn those fluid vibrations into the electrical signals our brains translate into sounds we recognize and understand.

Once hair cells are damaged, they cannot be repaired. This damage is what causes NIHL. So, if your headphones are routinely at maximum volume, with prolonged use you can damage your hearing. Because all headphones aren’t created equal, you would need to check the maximum decibel output for your particular make and model.

If you are concerned with hearing loss and how it relates to your headphones or loud noises in general, it is a good idea not to keep your headphone volume up too loud or engage in extremely loud activities too often.

Tips When Shopping Around for Childcare

Working outside the home is common in many parts of the country yet doing so may not necessarily be easy for many households. With many single parents, dual-income households, and other circumstances to work around, accommodating the needs of young children can pose a challenge. However, by finding quality childcare to help fill scheduling gaps, these types of families can have more peace of mind knowing that their little ones are taken care of while they are away for work or simply in need of an extra hand. By understanding the type of factors to consider when on the search for childcare options, it can be easier to get a good fit for your lifestyle and budget.

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Child’s Age

First and foremost, a child’s age will quickly rule out some options you have available in your community. Many facilities separate children by age to make group activities that are developmentally appropriate and easy to administer and allows children to interact with their peers during instruction and play. This being the case, it’s recommended that you ensure that the facility you choose caters to children that are your child’s age.

The Ratio of Caregivers to Children

While licensed facilities will need to abide by both federal and state laws, it is good to be aware of the ratio of caregivers to children that a childcare facility has to ensure that your child will get adequate attention for both educational and safety reasons. Additionally, this can give you a good idea of whether or not your prospective caregivers will make the effort to keep current with recommendations set by childcare experts and legislators.

Parent Participation

As the old adage goes, it often takes an entire village to raise children. In a childcare setting, this often means having open communication between educators and parents. This can make it easier to create an optimal environment and consistency for a child that can benefit from learning and overall well-being. It can be helpful to ask about volunteer opportunities, communication methods, and drop-in schedules available for parents who would like to participate more actively.

Waiting List and Enrollment Requirements

Before you allow your heart to get set on a specific childcare option, it’s practical to keep in mind that Little Sunshine's Playhouse and other high-quality facilities may very well have waiting lists of other families who would also like to enroll their children. Before filling out paperwork or researching hours on one childcare option, asking about the waiting list ahead of time can save you time, especially if you have a need for immediate enrollment for a more specific timeline of when you need to have your child start. In addition, it may be recommended that you check any requirements your child must fulfill before even being accepted. For example, immunizations, minimum hours of care that must be paid for are just two common considerations that need to be made as soon as possible.

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Special Needs

If your child has special needs, it is important to check that the childcare options you are considering can provide all the necessary accommodations. For example, children who use wheelchairs or other assistive equipment should be able to easily maneuver around with pathways that are wide enough and ramps that allow access to any elevated areas when necessary. Finding a caregiver that is ADA compliant can be a great start for families with children with special needs. Even something as simple as potty training may be something that families will want to research to ensure that their prospective choices can support whichever stage their child may be in.

Budget

One of the biggest barriers to childcare accessibility is pricing. Some plans for registration fees and other expenses may be easier on the pocketbook for budget-conscious families. For example, some private facilities may be more costly but may also have better features and services that make them worth the investment. In contrast, government programs may be less expensive, but it’s possible that lower rates may result in more crowded spaces or longer waitlists. Some places may require all families to pay the same rate while others may offer special discounts. These discounts can be based on factors such as household income, the number of siblings enrolled in the same program, military status, or memberships.

Type of Facility

It can be very useful to know the different types of childcare facilities that exist so you are aware of all your potential options. Some families may opt to have a private nanny who can supervise children in the family home, provide one-on-one attention to children, and tend to light housekeeping. In contrast, others may prefer the peer socialization opportunities that a larger childcare facility may be able to provide in addition to the convenience of knowing that a team of professionals can tend to children. Additionally, some schools in the community may even offer pre-kindergarten programs that can give young children an earlier start. Although this is a great option, especially for families with an older sibling attending the same school, enrollment opportunities, as well as the length of the school day, may be limited so it’s best to check directly with the schools in your community.