3 Incredibly Spellbinding Mykonos Villas – Luxury & Finesse Meet Traditional Cycladic Architecture

When thinking about luxury holidays that match a VIP lifestyle perfectly, then Mykonos island is among the top destinations that pop up.  Rightfully so. Mykonos has so much glam and allure to it that it only makes sense that so many celebs and A-lists favor the Island of the Winds for their summer vacations.

And, while here, they certainly have a lot of high-end mansions to accommodate their needs and exquisite demands. Here is a taste of three incredibly impressive lux villas with design and style that speak volumes about traditional Cycladic architecture and elegance.

1. Villa Groovy

Agios Stefanos area is one of the most privileged regions in Mykonos due to its proximity to the island capital – the bustling heart of Mykonos – while also being quite remote from the wild partying crowds and the after-midnight fuss.  Perched on a hillside, is a gorgeous sample of Cycladic architecture, with simple lines, whitewashed walls, beamed ceilings, cubic-shaped constructions, and all the charm and grace a holiday mansion is expected to exude.

The views? Arresting, giving the entire Aegean Sea on your plate. The spaces? Well-appointed, lavish, impressively designed, and luxuriant. The offered amenities? The most complete list possibly imagined. From a fully equipped kitchen, a private gym, and a home theatre to a wine room, posh ensuite bedrooms, and plenty of privacy-ensuring lounge, dining, and sitting areas both on the inside and the outdoor areas of Villa Groovy.  Feel like organizing a meaty BBQ evening for all of you? Or just chilling by the infinity pool with a glass of champagne at hand and unobstructed vistas of the ocean?  You may even want just to be yourself and your loved one, sharing a romantic afternoon at the stylish apartment of the upper level. Whatever your dream vacations entail, Villa Groovy will give you the chance to turn it into a tangible reality for you.

For more details, visit Villa Groovy.

2. Villa Avant-Garde

The sweeping views of the glistering sea and the glorious Mediterranean skies give Villa Avant-Garde a dashing advantage over other exclusive villas that are somewhat hidden behind hills and combo units. You now have the unique opportunity to wake up to ravishing vistas of the Mykonos coastline and sleep with sights of the most idyllic sunsets from both the inside rooms and from all around this chic mansion.

Located at the high-in-demand Ornos area, very close to all the popular beaches, as well as more isolated coves, Avant-Garde welcomes you with an open floor plan and all the modern comforts required for regal holidays for you and up to 9 more guests. Expect a fully equipped kitchen, several levels to accommodate the sleeping arrangements that best suit you, strategically designed areas to ensure maximum privacy, palatial ensuite bedrooms, private balconies, a staff room, and lots of outdoor spaces to enjoy your drink by the infinity pool, relax and unwind, or share gratifying moments with your friends or family around a BBQ.

For more details, visit Villa Avant-Garde.

3. Villa Blendy

This exquisite vacation property sits on the outskirts of the Kounoupas region, just a few miles from Mykonos Town. Being close to the vibrant night scene Mykonos is so famous for while also relishing the privacy levels you desire is a key combination for memorable holidays in the Island of the Winds.

The magnificent villa per se is an architectural masterpiece on its own. Beautifully blended elements from traditional Greek island-style design and contemporary touches add subtle luxury and refinement.  Marble, stone, wood, and rock find their place in the construction - in perfect harmony with the natural surroundings. The finesse exuded from every inch is remarkable and follows guests throughout the villa, from the five well-appointed en-suite bedrooms and the stylish living spaces to the cozy dining areas and the outdoor zones. Walk-in closets, a private church, and a fully equipped gym are among this property’s provided facilities – all designed to offer maximum comfort and privacy.

For more details, visit Villa Blendy.

About Kinglike Concierge:

Kinglike Concierge is the biggest name in the luxury property rental cosmos in Mykonos. Their portfolio of stylish villas and mansions is the most diverse and plethoric in the entire island, having well over 200 properties to serve their delectable clientele with. The property rental agency deals directly with the villa owner, making it far easier to match the right mansion with the right people, based on their specified needs. Specifically catering to the requirements of individuals with a VIP lifestyle, Kinglike Concierge has quickly become a world-class concierge service provider, ensuring their clients receive nothing but supreme-quality, all-around services, ranging from private helicopter rides and VIP reservations to private chauffeurs and personalized cruise tours.

How to Handle a Child Custody Agreement After a Divorce

Thank you so much Joseph Freeman for this guest post

If you are going through a divorce right now then I know just what you are going through and although this is a really tough time for you, things will get better. This time 4 years ago I was sat with a Sydney family lawyer talking through my options, as my wife and I were getting divorced. Even if things are amiable now, if there are kids involved then it is going to get worse before it gets better. As I thought would happen, my wife got custody of our two girls, which wasn’t very easy. Life goes on however, and here is how this situation is best handled.

Accept It

There are some legal grounds to appeal decisions in these situations but there really is little point, the decision very rarely gets reversed and things being dragged on for longer is not going to be good for anyone. In order to come to terms with this and for everyone’s sanity, the best thing to do is learn to accept the decision as quickly as possible.

Live by the Rules

It is very tempting to try and make tweaks and changes to what happens with the kids but I have always found it best to just stay within the rules that have been laid out by the authorities. I had a friend who kept their kid an extra day after verbally agreeing it with his ex-wife, she later denied it and they got into all sorts of trouble, so I’ve learned that this is not worth doing at all, stick to the rules and you’ll be just fine.

Keep Everyone Involved 

If any changes are made, mutually or otherwise, then it always makes sense to keep a written record of what has happened and keep the authorities involved. What I have found to be the best practice here is overdoing it when it comes to offering up information, every day change, every vacation, whatever it is, let it be heard. In doing this you can be sure to protect yourself, as you never know what the future may hold.

Children Aren’t Pawns

No matter what your feelings are towards your ex-partner, you should never air them in front of you kids. Something else which you should never do is use your kids as pawns in the battle of chess that you may be having with your ex. Children never want their parents to split up and you have to remember that they are the victims in all of this. Children need as much normality as possible, you shouldn’t try to win them over with treats and money, nor should you try to compete with your ex when it comes to spending quality time with the kids. Be a good parent and treat your kids just as you would if they were still at home with both parents.

Trust me that things will get better, you just need to stay strong.

Joseph Freeman

Helpful Tips for Reducing Hair Loss in Men

Hair loss is one of the most widespread issues around the world, currently affecting more than a third of the population. Each person loses up to 100 strands of hair per day. It’s something that occurs naturally, which means that there is no real concern about this. While this is true, at some point, hair loss may become excessive.

Photo by Travis Seera from Pexels

When you are losing more than what is considered normal, it’s time to consider why this may be happening. There are several possible causes of hair loss including genetics, pollution, stress, medications, mineral deficiency, and diet. Also, wearing a helmet, hat, or cap can also cause hair loss. While this is true, there are several things you can do to help minimize hair loss and, in some cases, stop it altogether.

Take the Right Vitamins

Taking the right vitamins is a great way to improve your overall health and well-being, but it’s also good for your hair. For example, vitamin A will encourage the healthy production of sebum in your scalp while vitamin E improves blood circulation in the scalp, which helps the follicles remain active.

Eat More Protein

If you want to prevent hair loss, you should eat lean meats, soy, fish, and an array of other healthy proteins. This will promote hair health and help to minimize hair loss.

Use Essential Oils for a Scalp Massage

If you have had hair loss for a while, consider massaging your scalp using essential oils for a few minutes. This will help ensure your hair follicles remain active. A good combination is lavender in a sesame or almond oil.

Seek Help from the Professionals

If none of the tips here help with your hair loss issues, it may be time to seek third-party help. Bosley for Men offers an array of solutions for any man who is dealing with any level of hair loss. The best way to know if third-party, professional help will be beneficial is by setting up an initial consultation and speaking with a hair growth excerpt.

Handling Your Hair Loss

Are you dealing with hair loss? If so, take heart in the fact that you aren’t alone. There are millions of other men who are in the same boat. If you want to prevent hair loss, consider some of the methods and techniques that are listed here. This is going to help ensure you achieve the desired results, regardless of the current state of your hair loss.

3 Great Ways to Involve Your Kids in a Second Wedding

Second weddings can be tricky. Sometimes they are the result of a tragedy, while other times they can be chalked up to mistakes from the past. No matter the situation, though, there is no reason to make it any less special. After all, this is the start of an amazing journey, and you want your special day to be great and memorable.

One additional complication, however, can come in the form of your kids. Especially for young children, they may be confused about what's going on. And kids of any age are likely to have some strange feelings about how their family is changing.

The best advice is to confront this head-on. Don’t let complex emotions bubble under the surface and turn into real issues. You want to treat your kids as smart people and try to explain everything that’s appropriate to say as clearly as possible. Certainly, this won’t always solve everything, but it is a needed step during the process of change.

And it will only be further solidified with actions. In general, it will be helpful to include your kids in your second wedding from the start. The following tips represent three of the best ways to get them involved and keep them from experiencing any unnecessary confusion.

1. Family Decision-Making

To help make sure all the kids — no matter their age — understand what's happening, you'll want to involve them as early in the process as possible. One great way is by including them in a few decisions from the get-go. Sit them down as you go through things like picking out the invitations and save the date cards. This will show them there is an actual day on the calendar when the change will take place. And that will help make it real in their minds.

2. Guest List Comfort

At the same time, you can also involve the kids in the guest list planning. Much like choosing and sending out invitations, this will further help reinforce the fact that this is an actual event that will take place a few months down the line. But it will also be comforting for them to see how many of their loved ones will be there. They may still be struggling with the change, but this shows them many of the people they know aren’t going anywhere. Many of the extended family and friends who have been constants throughout their life will be right there standing beside you.

3. Wedding Day Considerations

Of course, you also want to involve the children as much as possible on the wedding day itself. As many brides and grooms know, it’s often the young ring bearer and precious flower girls who the rest of the family gets the biggest kick out of seeing. Or, if they're old enough, they may even want to sit at the head table or say something during the reception. Go with your instincts, and no matter what, be sure to check in on them regularly throughout the day. They may be going through some emotions that come out all at once. That's why you need to be there for them, even if it’s easy to get caught up during what is supposed to be your event.

Second Time's the Charm

With any luck, your second wedding will go even better than the first. You've got some experience now after all, right? But while this may be another go-around for you, it might be new for your kids. At any rate, they will certainly be experiencing this event much differently than you.

Transparency and inclusion will make it easier for everyone. Involve the children as early on as possible when it comes to both picking and sending out invitations and save the date cards. Show them the guest list at the same time, so they can see who will be there. And be sure to watch for any problems or insecurities on the wedding day itself.

Kids are resilient and can handle almost anything. Honestly, it seems like they are tougher than adults sometimes. But they are still young, and they can struggle to understand mature subjects. So, be aware of that and try to help them along. That way, the start of your new relationship can be embraced by everybody in the family.

How to Choose the Most Reliable Long Distance Mover

Moving is a major aspect of life; at one point, you will either decide or be forced to move due to several reasons such as career prospects, need for a bigger house, a new environment, among other reasons. Regardless, moving is often meant for the betterment of both you and your family. However, moving is usually an arduous and time-consuming task, which can be hard to accomplish if not done properly. This is true if you are conducting a long distance move, such as moving to another state or across the country.

Photo by HiveBoxx on Unsplash

Such a move is not only more costly, but the risks of possible damage are much higher when your belongings are being transported over a long distance. This is why such a move requires serious considerations and planning to ensure that the whole process is completed smoothly without any hitches or losses. Arguably, one of the major factors to consider when planning a long distance relocation is the moving company that you are going to hire. The success and timeliness of your move are highly dependent on the expertise and professionalism of your moving company.

Choosing the wrong moving company can not only leave you frustrated but also suffering huge losses. Your choice of moving company isn't a decision that you should take lightly. With that being said, you might be wondering how one identifies the most reliable long distance movers from the sea of moving companies claiming to be the best at what they do? Fortunately, here we are going to look at some of the top factors to consider when choosing a long distance mover.

1. Experience

As discussed earlier, long distance relocation involves a lot of risks. Hence, to ensure that these risks are minimized, you need to ensure that the company you choose is experienced in long distance moving. A company that is in the business for many years knows how to effectively and safely carry out the move. Their staff is professionally trained, and considering their experience; they are aware of the mistakes that can hamper the success of the move. They know which measures to put in place to avoid these mistakes. They will ensure that your items are well secured and are not exposed to any harm.

Also, they are aware of the legal requirements involving out-of-state moves, for example, additional licenses and paperwork.

Photo by Maxim on Unsplash

2. Licensing and Insurance

The most important factor to consider when choosing a long distance mover is to check the licenses and insurance cover the company has. You should not fear to request the mover to provide you with proof of their license. This will indicate to you that the company is legit and not just another scam off the streets. Licensing and insurance often go hand in hand.

You should find out what insurance they provide to their clients. Find out whether they have replacement value protection, which helps to ensure that your belongings are covered up to a certain amount in case of any damage or loss. It is important to note that even with the best movers, accidents can happen, so you should always be protected.

3. Get a Written Estimates

When conducting a long distance move, a verbal estimate doesn't do you any good. You should request free estimates from various companies. These estimates should be detailed and clearly show what each cost covers. A professional mover should visit your home and assess before giving you the estimate. It is worth noting that a written estimate is legally binding; hence, it provides more guarantee.

When you obtain written estimates from multiple companies, you will be able to see what each company charges for each service. This will help you choose the one that best suits your needs.

4. The Reputation of the Mover

You don't want to hire a long distance moving company without first checking what previous clients are saying about their experience with the company. In addition to requesting a list of references, you should also make use of the internet.

Sites such as Better Business Bureau and Yelp will provide you with an abundance of customer experience information. The FMCSA website is also another website to consider as it provides safety reviews.

5. Signs to Look Out For

Apart from the above factors that you should take into consideration, there are signs you should watch out for to help you identify a potential scam. First of all, avoid companies that demand advance cash payments or unusually large cash deposits. This is a major red flag.

Also, you shouldn't hire a company that makes use of a rental moving truck or a truck that is unmarked. Any serious professional and reliable moving company staff will show up with their truck showcasing the company name or logo.

If the mover insists on carrying out the planning process over the phone, including giving you the estimate over the phone and other planning aspects, then you should move on to the next moving company.

What are My Options for Hiring Live Entertainment?

Are you planning an event and considering your options for live entertainment for hire? We have the ultimate list of live entertainment ideas for your next event.

Actors and Actresses
Are you shooting a music video or commercial? By hiring a professional actor or actress, you will add bona fide credibility to your project.

Artists
Want to look your absolute best for your event? You could hire a makeup artist to give you a glamorous, Hollywood look. Or perhaps you want a face painter or body painter to come to your event so that everyone can look their best. You could also hire a caricature artist to render funny and unique drawings of your guests.

Photo by Samuel Fyfe on Unsplash

Bands and Ensembles
There's nothing like a live band or ensemble to set the mood for your event. Rock, Country, Jazz, Blues, Reggae, or even a Three String Quartet will deliver entertainment worthy of a concert for your next big bash, or instead, provide a nice, quiet background ambiance for your intimate cocktail party.

Circus Acts
Want to bring some excitement to your event? How about an Aerial Dancer? Or are you looking for something more dramatic? Consider hiring a Flame Dancer or Fire Eater? Or perhaps you'd prefer to add a little whimsy to your event and hire a clown to entertain your guests.

Comedians
Do you love a good laugh? Laughter is food for the soul. You could hire a comedian for your event and have your guests rolling in the aisles.

Cultural Entertainment
Consider hiring musicians that perform music from all around the world, such as Caribbean, Latin, Spanish Flamenco, Reggae, Steel Drums, and even a Mariachi band.

Dancers
Want to add a bit of exotic flair to your event? How about Polynesian Dancers, Samba Dancers, Belly Dancers, Hip Hop, and Punjabi folk style Giddhe? Guests would love to get involved and participate in the dances.

Photo by Anuvith Premakumar on Unsplash

DJs
Do you want to bring down the house at your next party? Hire a DJ to spin records and keep your guests on the dance floor with all the latest and greatest music available.

Impersonators
Everyone loves celebrities! Make your next party unforgettable with the kings, Elvis and Michael Jackson impersonators. Don't forget the queens, Drag Queens that is. Want something a little more out of this world? Hire Spock! Let your guests hobnob with the rich and famous at your next event.

Magicians
Bring wonder, excitement, and a bit of wow to your party with a magician. Everybody loves magic tricks.

Musicians
From solo artists to Big Band players, musicians of all kinds are just waiting to be hired for your next event. Are you having a cocktail party? Hire a Jazz duo. Is it a beach-themed event? Hire a steel drum player. Do you need something more refined? Hire a pianist.

Photo by Matthias Blonski on Unsplash

Photographers and Videographers
Don't let yourself get stuck behind the camera taking pictures or videos, and miss all the fun. Hire professional photographers or videographers to capture those memories so that you can actually enjoy your event.

Speakers and Officiants
Do you need someone to host your event? Consider hiring a speaker or officiant who is well versed in various topics. Hire a professional to educate and entertain your audience.

Specialty Acts
Are you looking for something genuinely different? Something your guests will be talking about long after the party is over? Consider hiring a specialty act such as Belly Dancers, Fire Performers, 80s Tribute Band, or even a Lipstick Reader.

Conclusion:
With this list of live entertainers, you can choose the perfect performer for your next event. Make it spectacular!

How To Cook Chicken Thighs In An Air Fryer

If you haven't already hopped on the air fryer bandwagon, you better get with it! I have had one for about 6 months now, and use it every day, sometimes even a few times a day. It really is a very versatile kitchen appliance that every home cook needs. I recently decided to try some boneless, skinless chicken thighs in the air fryer for the first time. Normally I grill them either on my cast iron grill pan or the outdoor gas grill. I didn't feel like dealing with the pollen outside so I wanted to see how the air fryer would work.

I started with one package of boneless, skinless chicken thighs, fresh lime, and an assortment of dried seasonings. I simply washed the chicken with the fresh lime, and then rinsed and patted dry. I seasoned to my liking with my go-to spices. I also recently discovered Trader Joe's chili lime seasoning, and it has become a new must-have. If you are located near Trader Joe's, you have to grab a bottle!

After my chicken is seasoned, I set it aside for a bit while I heat the air fryer to 400° for five minutes. You can lightly spritz your chicken with olive oil if you are worried about them sticking to the basket, but I didn't have any issues. Place chicken in fryer basket according to how many you can fit for them to lay flat. Cook for 7 minutes, and flip. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until nicely brown. They come out super juicy and perfectly cooked! This was so much easier than using the grill.

Chicken thighs are so versatile and can be served with a variety of side dishes, or on top of a salad. We have been eating lower carb meals lately, so I threw together some delicious vegetable fried "rice" (riced cauliflower). What a tasty combination!

Don't forget to grab this chili lime seasoning from Trader Joe's. It's only $1.99 so I will be grabbing a few extra to stock up.

Be sure to check out these other recipes:

• Air Fryer Mushrooms
• Caribbean Style Roasted Chicken
• Blueberry Lemon Bread
• Shelly's Easy & Moist Meatloaf

A Producer's Pre-production Jobs

Photo by Chris Murray on Unsplash

While producing a movie may seem fun and exciting, it is a not job where you show up on set and start ordering others around. Several things need to be done and put in place before you can start producing. Here are three jobs that need to be done before you begin filming.

Scheduling

It is important to outline the time frame for making your movie. You need to determine how long it will take to make and how long you will need your actors, buildings, and managers. Once you have made a schedule for your filming time, you are one step closer to producing. Plans may not always go exactly how you like, so be sure to include some extra days for any make-up work, incomplete scenes, or incohesive actor’s work.

Approvals

When producing a movie, you are not the only one involved. There are permits to acquire for where you shoot and what you shoot. Insurance also must be included in your actor’s and worker's contracts for the liabilities that could occur. Always be mindful of what is happening on set as well. Heather Parry is a prime example of how everything can seem to go right onscreen, but behind the scenes, proper protocols and approvals were never developed. This can cause serious problems long after your production is over

Locations

Knowing where you will film your movie is important before beginning. Decide on the country, state, and town you wish to shoot your movie in. Once you find the place, you still need to find the buildings and towns you want to be in. Some budgets allow for building their entire sets, while others will cause you to search for the perfect setting already out there.

The pre-production process includes several jobs for you to do. Starting your production with these tasks already accomplished will help things go quickly and smoothly while filming.  

The Rights of Nursing Home Residents

The rights of people in nursing homes are generally the same as everyone’s rights. Although rights can change when someone becomes less able, and decisions have to be made for them. You may have to act on their behalf to make decisions that you think are best for them.  If you have a loved one in a nursing home, you will want to protect them and make sure they are being cared for properly.

Photo by Elien Dumon on Unsplash

When they enter a home they will receive a nursing home contract - understanding a nursing home contract can be difficult. Therefore, in this article, we are going to look at rights that particularly affect nursing home residents and what to look for to ensure that they are being respected and upheld.

The rights of all nursing home residents are generally the same. However, when someone becomes unable to communicate or make decisions for themselves, then arrangements should be made on what their preferences were in the past. Their rights such as their privacy and security are still of the utmost importance.

Privacy

Life in a communal home is challenging. Most residents still need to feel that their privacy is being respected, especially when it comes to personal care. Here are some tips on what to look for:

• A patient is involved in decisions that affect them. For example, when they shower, whether they would prefer to only be cared for by female staff and what they wear.
• Personal care is done in private with the door closed.
• Ensuring confidentiality with their care and not openly discussing intimate matters in front of other residents. 
• Being allowed to self-care where they can and retain independence even where it might take them a long time. 

Security

Residents should feel safe and cared for. This includes:

• Offering assistance with tasks that could otherwise be dangerous such as walking or using the toilet. 
• Protecting residents from abuse from staff or other residents.
• Everything is as accessible as possible, and the floor is clear from hazards.
• A clear and accessible complaint process. 
• An atmosphere of care that is open, honest and inclusive. 

Civil Rights

Residents should still retain their rights as citizens as far as they can do so, including:
The opportunity to vote in elections.

• Access to healthcare.
• Assistance claiming appropriate benefits or social services.

Choice

Residents should always have control and choice as far as they can do so. They should be involved in making decisions about their care and be allowed to change their mind daily if they wish to, including:

• Where and what they eat within reason.
• Who they choose to socialize with.
• Activities they can get involved in.
• How to manage their own time and the choice to be flexible with their routine. 
• An opportunity to share preferences.
• Religious or ethical beliefs, which should be respected and upheld by those around them.

Photo by Matthias Zomer from Pexels

Employees should always aim to communicate with residents, speaking to them at their eye level whilst building rapport and upholding respect. Visitors should be encouraged and welcomed as this is one of the best ways to keep resident’s spirits high.

4 Things to Consider When Buying a Watch

In the days of cell phones, some may wonder why you would even want or need a watch. Watches can be much more discreet than a cell phone. Picture it, you’re in a gathering or meeting, and you need to see what time it is. Pulling out a phone is far more apparent and could be off-putting to others. However, a glance at your watch can go practically unnoticed by others. Another reason you may want a watch is when you may not have a place to keep a phone handy, a watch strapped to your wrist will be easy access to check the time. So now that you’ve decided to buy a watch, here are four things to consider before you make that purchase. 

Photo by Rodrigo Bressane on Unsplash

1. Function

The function of the watch is essential. Will you be using the watch for business or sports? Do you need a divers watch like the Luminox 3051 Navy Seal that can withstand water and increased pressure? Or are your needs more along the lines of what a smartwatch might provide?

2. Design

Hand in hand with function is the design of your watch. Watches come in a variety of styles, ranging from leather or canvas straps to the expandable steel mesh straps that stretch around the wearer's wrist for a perfect fit.

3. Movement

There are three basic types of watch movements. Manual, automatic, and quartz movement are the most common. Manual is where the wearer must manually wind up the watch, so it keeps accurate time. An automatic watch movement is one in which the motion of the person wearing the watch, keeps the watch wound. Finally, a quartz movement is based on an internal battery and a quartz crystal to keep the watch running.

4. Materials

Depending on the function and design of the watch, they will be made up of different materials. Ceramic watches tend to be more robust and are chosen for their scratch and heat resistance. Steel watches are suitable for moisture and rust resistance. Finally, watches made with titanium tend to be stronger and lighter than other watches. They are resistant against salt, water, and acids that may be present. Titanium is also hypoallergenic so that it may be the best choice for those with sensitive skin.

Buying a watch doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Take your time to find the right watch that fits your style, function, and material needs. With so many choices out there, you’ll hopefully find your perfect watch.

PopSockets Launches National Recycling Program

Do you have any old PopSockets or phone cases sitting around that you no longer use? PopSockets, maker of expandable phone grips, has partnered with recycling leader TerraCycle® to create a FREE recycling program for PopSockets products and packaging, as well as ANY brand of cellular phone case.

Through the PopSockets Recycling Program, consumers can now send in the following products and packaging to be recycled for free:

●           PopGrips®

●           PopMinis®

●           PopGrip® Slide

●           PopWallet® & PopWallet+

●           PopChains®

●           PopSockets® PopMounts®

●           PopSockets® packaging

●           Otter + Pop Phone Cases

●           PopThirst®

●           PopGrip® Lips, PopGrip® Mirror & PopGrip® AirPods Holder

●           PopStation®

●           Any brand of cellular phone case

Participation in the program is easy: simply sign up on the TerraCycle program page at https://www.terracycle.com/en-US/brigades/popsockets and mail in the accepted waste using a prepaid shipping label. Once collected, the waste is broken down, separated by material and the plastics are cleaned and melted into hard plastic that can be remolded to make new recycled products.

Be sure to search around the TerraCycle site, because you would be amazed to find out the things you can have recycled instead of throwing them out. 

6 Life-Altering Health Effects of Divorce on Women

Divorces can be messy and chaotic, and seldom does it happen that spouses come out of a divorce without any pain. Unfortunately, there has been an unprecedented increase in divorces, and it is reported that women suffer from the after-effects of divorce more severely than men.

The common understanding is that women suffer both physically and mentally only if they are involved in an abusive relationship and get a divorce later. But, this understates the mental chaos that the whole process of divorce itself creates in the minds of women.

We have compiled a comprehensive list of the various health effects of divorce on women:

1. Anxiety Spikes:
The occurrence of significant life changes brings about anxiety, and no event is more significant than a divorce in the world of married people. Therefore, it is bound to bring anxiety, because the idea of living alone, the insecurity of being rejected, and conflicting feelings about your partner can be highly disturbing, especially for women.

2. Plunging into depression:
Anxiety should decrease once you get on with your life after being divorced, but you should consult a counselor if it persists for longer. Persistent anxiety turns to depression, which can significantly affect the quality of your life.

Moreover, engage a decent attorney like the ones available at the Divorce Matters law firm, because they will save you from the anxiety of dealing with the legal aspects of divorce.

Photo by Alex Boyd on Unsplash

3. Getting socially isolated:
Divorced women start judging themselves because they feel that they are somehow inadequate and do not deserve love. This could result in isolating themselves from other women and end up being even more depressed.

4. Becoming an insomniac:
Depressed people often forget about taking care of themselves and find it hard to sleep without prescribed drugs. Under-sleeping leads to several health issues, and statistically, the most common one is hypertension.

5. Aging quicker:
Many women religiously look for ways to keep their skin fresh and smooth for as long as they can, but divorce can take that away from them. It is reported that divorced women age quicker as compared to other women because of divorce-induced depression and insomnia.

Aging does not only mean wrinkly skin, but it also indicates that they are highly likely to face issues while engaging in everyday mobility activities like walking and climbing stairs.

6. Higher likelihood of experiencing cardiac incidents and diabetes:
According to a study conducted by researchers at Duke University, divorced women are more likely to experience cardiac events as compared to married or single women. On the other hand, this study states that divorced men do not see any such increase in the risk of experiencing cardiac incidents.

Moreover, it is stated by another study that divorced women are at least 20 percent more likely to experience diabetes at some point in their lives.

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Losing Health Insurance
A significant portion of women depend on their husbands for health benefits. Therefore, a lot of women lose health insurance as a result of divorce, and that can lead up to looming medical conditions.

In a nutshell, divorces obviously must not be taken lightly, especially if you are a woman. It might not be a bad idea to start making plans or having things in place if you suspect you may end up divorcing your spouse.

How Smokers Can Lead a Healthier Lifestyle

Many people who get into the habit of smoking don’t often think of it as a problem, usually until non-smokers point it out. Smokers make up a large portion of the general population; in the U.S., there are well over 30 million smokers. And the truth is, although smoking is associated with several adverse health effects, you can still lead a full, healthy lifestyle despite the "bad" habit.

If you are a smoker, it doesn’t matter how you got into smoking, why you smoke, or whether you’re looking to quit or cut down. You should put extra effort into taking care of your physical health. It's unfair to think that smokers don't care about their health or well-being. Smoking is not a behavioral defect or an indication of a flawed personality or character traits. Here are a few ways you can help to maintain a healthier lifestyle, even as a smoker.

Moderate Your Smoking

The first step towards leading a healthy lifestyle as a smoker is moderating the smoking. Quitting is often a tall order for many smokers, but moderation is the next best thing. Try cutting down on smoking or looking into safer alternatives like patches and ecigs to take the edge off from time to time. Begin slow, for instance, by cutting one or two cigarettes every week and gradually work up to an optimum amount. Baby steps is often the way to go.

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Eat a Healthy Diet

Everyone, and especially smokers, need to eat a healthy, well-balanced diet. Include lots of rich fruits, vegetables, and nuts in your daily diet. Some of the essential minerals, vitamins, and nutrients can help counteract some of the negative effects of smoking. For instance, smoking is known to block calcium and vitamins C and D from being absorbed into the body, increasing fruits and vegetables in the diet can help restore these essential nutrients.

Engage in Physical Activity 

Engage in regular physical activity to maintain physical health. Physical exercise makes the blood flow faster and increases breathing, both of which are beneficial towards strengthening the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. You can go to the gym for rigorous exercises, go on hikes and bike ride, or try mild physical exercises such as cardio and yoga. Physical activities can also help you manage cravings if you're trying to quit or cut down on smoking.

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It makes total sense to be a smoker and still want to improve your physical health and wellness. You can practice regular health routines, just like non-smokers. All you have to do is find the perfect health and wellness rhythm that aligns with your goals and abilities. 

Perfect Roasted Salmon From Sitka Salmon Shares

If you're anything like me, you might be very particular about the food you buy for your family. When it comes to fresh foods, we tend to buy mostly organic, and almost all non-GMO only products. My husband is the one who does his research and makes his suggestions of what he would like for me to buy or what to avoid. One thing he does not mess around with is fish and seafood. He tells me to never purchase farm-raised fish. We end up spending a good bit more, but stick to wild-caught or locally-caught fish.

We were so lucky to get a special shipment of wild-caught Alaskan Coho Salmon and Pacific Cod courtesy of Sitka Salmon Shares. It's pretty wild (pun intended) to receive fish that was caught by fisherman and blast-frozen to maintain the freshness.

Sitka Salmon Shares is:

• Wild: Wild-caught from the pristine waters of Southeast Alaska and the North Pacific
• Sustainable: Harvested using hook-and-line methods to minimize negative ecological impact
• Traceable: Our relationships ensure that your fish is traceable to the boats of our fishermen-owners and trusted community partners
• Fishermen-centered: Individually caught by one of our fisherman-owners or partner fishermen (who we hope are on their way to ownership!). Fishermen ownership makes us distinct from our competition and creates a more just system that values hard work, high-quality fish and low-impact harvesting methods.
• Just: Our fishermen receive an average of 20-30% more for their harvest, which can equate to $10,000 extra income in a given season
• Premium: Blast-frozen at the peak of freshness to ensure the highest quality, guaranteed
• Convenient: Home delivered directly to your door, with recipes and a newsletter about the fishermen who caught that month’s share
• Conscious: Carbon offsets purchased and 1% of revenue donated to efforts promoting small-scale fisheries and conservation in Alaska.  

How does Sitka Salmon Shares work? 

Community Supported Fishery (CSF) members purchase their very own "shares" of their harvest. Similar to preorders or vegetable shares ordered through your favorite CSA, these purchases determine how much fish their fishermen catch! After that, CSF members receive a monthly home seafood delivery - their "share" - of their wild Alaskan catch, ranging 4.5-5lbs per month and ranging 3-9 months during the CSF season (April thru December). Prices range from $18 to $28 per pound, depending on the species you choose and the quantity you buy. Shipping is also FREE, which is a plus! 

You're probably wondering if the fish is worth it or not. Let me tell you, it is beyond worth it. My husband and I both agree that it is the absolute best salmon we have ever eaten, period! Even better than what we have had from some swanky high-priced restaurants. I simple placed the sealed packs of coho salmon in the kitchen sink with enough water to submerge it. The salmon thawed quickly and I was completely in awe of the beautiful color. I did find some pin bones that I was able to pluck out. I always judge any fish by the smell. This salmon smelled clean and ocean-y, not overly fishy. If fish smells too fishy, I won't mess with it. 

The way I make my roasted salmon is quite simple. I start with rinsing the fish and patting it dry with paper towels. I place them on a parchment lined baking sheet. Next, I season with a blend of sea salt, freshly cracked black pepper, creole seasoning, complete seasoning, and garlic powder. I then lightly rub the dry seasonings onto the fish filets, and top with fresh dill sprigs and lemon slices. The last step is to melt 4 tablespoons of butter and drizzle it over the top of the filets. I place the fish in the oven set on broil for 3 minutes, and then at 395° on the convection setting for 10 minutes. If you do not have the convection feature, you might need to add a few additional minutes of cooking time. 

I squeezed some fresh lemon over the top of the salmon when it came out of the oven. I had to sneak a little piece before I plated it and it made me close my eyes. The salmon completely melted in my mouth! SO GOOD! I served the roasted salmon with some simple maple brown sugar mashed sweet potatoes and sauteed asparagus. This was a high-end restaurant-quality meal without a doubt. 

Getting hungry? If you use this special discount code - SITKA25, it will take $25 off any 2020 Premium Sitka Seafood Share. Be sure to follow Sitka Seafood Shares on Facebook and Instagram for the latest product updates and recipes. I definitely plan to cook the cod in a couple weeks. I will browse some recipes and decide from there. My family will co-sign when I say that I highly recommend trying Sitka Salmon Shares. 

Many thanks to Sitka Salmon Shares for providing a seafood box for my family to try. All opinions are my own as always. Thank you for stopping by today. 

How To Shop For a New Pair of Eyeglasses

Almost every person I know that wears glasses hates shopping for a new pair. The yearly phone call reminding you to go for an eye test, followed by that annoying car journey into town. You have to wait in the waiting room, and then you get to take that really fun eye test. And after all of this, you get the pleasure of being charged the ridiculous price that they usually charge, just to own a pair of glasses that allow you to see. God help you if you want lenses that are anti-glare or scratch-proof; you need to re-mortgage your house to afford those. 

Fortunately, times are changing, and everything is going digital, glasses shopping included. Now I know that this is probably not news to many of you. But if you are like me, you always decided there were too many risks, especially as you can’t try the frames on our get them adjusted. But then I did some research, and lots of people I spoke to were actually very happy with their online eyeglass purchases. (This website, in particular, sprung up a lot)

So I decided to write a few quick tips and tricks to shopping for glasses online. Hopefully, If you are on the verge of taking the plunge, this article will help convince you.

Returns Policies

The most important thing to check when buying glasses online is the store's return policies. There is a good chance that with the glasses you like the look of on the online shop, there is a potential that you are not going to like them in person. If this happens, you need to be able to send them back and get a full refund or an exchange. 

Adjustments

A great trick if your glasses that you bought online need adjusting, is to go into an optometrist. As long as you do not tell them that you bought them online, they are usually more than happy to adjust glasses for walk-in customers. If you are feeling guilty of the free adjustments after you have not bought the glasses from the shop, buy something small, like a cleaning cloth or some cleaning solution to ease your conscience.

Prescription

Unfortunately, the one thing you can’t get online is your prescription. That means you are going to have to go for your regular eye test in order to figure out what glasses you need. This is just the way things have to be. Just because you have to go and get your eye test in person however, does not mean you need to buy the overpriced glasses they offer you there on the spot. Take your prescription and do your shopping online if you want to save some serious money. There is Ernest Hemingway eyewear for sale you can consider.

There we have it, and hopefully if you are on the fence about shopping online for your glasses, we have eased any doubts you had about the whole process. Although it can be a bit of a pain sending glasses back until you get the perfect pair, you can often save hundreds by doing it this way, which in our eyes is totally worth the hassle.

How to Get Yourself Out of Common Traffic Violations

Traffic violations can result in fines worth hundreds of dollars, points on your license, or even a driving ban. Some of the most common traffic violations are speeding, reckless driving, running through a stop sign or red light, driving under the influence and turning or changing lanes without indicating. Dealing with a pending court case can cause a lot of unnecessary stress. However, before you formally challenge the violation in a court of law, there are a few strategies that can be tried before you decide to look for legal representation.

Photo by Tobi from Pexels

1. Challenge the Officer’s Observations and Conclusion

After being pulled over and told that you have broken the Road Rules, challenging the traffic officer’s version of events can sometimes yield results. For example, if you run a red light, you might make the excuse that you were traveling too fast to stop in time. You might also point out that the officer was not in a favorable position to judge whether you did, in fact, violate the traffic laws. This can work especially well when there is a lot of traffic that might have arguably obstructed their view of the incident. Recording such an objection can help you later on if your case ends up going before a judge.

2. Challenge the State of the Roads or Signals

Make sure to drive past the site when the traffic offense occurred to check whether the road, markings, lights and signals are all in good working order. If you find any aspect of these is not working, in disrepair, or not clearly visible due to dirt or dust, record your findings in the form of a video or photo and pass them to your attorney. Any such evidence that you can collect can be extremely valuable and can assist a good lawyer in their attempt to construct a strong argument in your favor to absolve you of any responsibility for the violation.

3. Prove that the Offense Was the Result of an Attempt to Avoid Harm

A good defense in court may come from being able to prove that your action was a result of a legitimate attempt to protect the safety of yourself or other drivers. An example of this might be to claim that you were driving over the speed limit due to an attempt to avoid a collision, or because you feared the possibility of being hit from behind by a driver who was tailgating you. Another valid excuse might be that you were taking evasive action to avoid an animal that had moved into your path.

Photo by Mike from Pexels

While it is always much wiser to take care to avoid committing a traffic offense so that you do not end up in a legal wrangle, once you have received a ticket, it is a good idea to hire a legal attorney that specializes in minimizing driving penalties. If you live in the Greater Sydney area, why not check out some of the fantastic traffic lawyers Parramatta has to offer?