Get Your 2020 Tea Advent Calendar and Gift Set From Adagio Teas

It's almost the most wonderful time of year again! The holiday season is about to be here, and it's time to start planning accordingly. While this year looks a whole lot different than previous years, it doesn't mean we shouldn't make the most of it. We plan to enjoy the holiday festivities as much as possible, and treat ourselves a bit more.  

To kick things off this holiday season, we are partnering with Adagio Teas to introduce their 

NEW 24 Days of Tea Advent Calendar and their NEW 12 Days of Tea Gift Set. Tea is a staple in my home, and Adagio teas are the best we have ever had. My husband has been ordering some very specific blends for a few years now, but we have not tried the holiday blends yet. 

The 12 Days of Tea Gift Set is beautifully boxed and ready for gift-giving. This gift set has 12 different loose teas in some very festive flavor blends. Each single-serving pouch of loose tea is packed in a mini tin that can be used as ornaments. At only $19, it's a great value to treat yourself and the tea lovers in your life. 

The 12 Days of Tea gift set include these teas: White Pear, Rooibos Pecan Turtle, Lavender Lemon, Candy Cane, Golden Monkey, Jasmine Phoenix Pearls, Blue Mango, Cream, Cha Cha, Earl Grey Bravo, Fruit Medley, and Rooibos Nutcracker.

Get ready to countdown the days to Christmas with the 2020 Tea Advent Calendar. Behind each door is one festive blend after the other to enjoy each day until the big day! 

The Tea Advent calendar is $29 and you can choose either tea bags or loose tea. We can't wait to find out what variety of tea is behind each door! 

Either one of these tea gifts are sure to please any tea lover! Be sure to check out Adagio Teas on their website for their wide variety of teas and tea-related accessories. They definitely make the perfect holiday gifts for friends, family, co-workers, neighbors, and for YOUrself! 

Pamper Yourself With Cleanlogic Bath & Beauty Products (Giveaway)

This year has been quite a challenge for so many of us, and it's important to not forget about taking care of yourself inside and out. Some people are still a bit nervous about getting beauty or skincare treatments done away from their house, with good reason. The great thing is you can still take great care of your skin without stepping foot outside of your home! 

Cleanlogic offers a variety of antimicrobial bath and beauty products that will get you set up with your very own at-home pampering kit. Cleanlogic’s products have antimicrobial protection to slow or prevent the growth of bacteria and mold, are animal-test free, Control Union Certified, and made with clean ingredients and recyclable packaging. Cleanlogic is also dedicated to supporting the over 25 million people in the United States who are blind or visually impaired with packaging that includes functional braille, and a portion of all sales that are donated to blind and visually impaired charities.

We received a few Cleanlogic bath items to try out for ourselves including: Dual Texture Exfoliating Facial Pads ($5), Detox Purifying Charcoal Body Scrubber ($5), and the Dual Texture Exfoliating Body Scrubber ($5). 

The facial pads came in a pack of 3, so I gave one to my daughters, and kept the other one for myself. Both of my girls work out and do yoga, so they were excited to try these out on their faces. As for myself, I have patchy skin. I tried this facial pad out for a few days to see how it would work on the dry spots, and to my surprise, it helped tremendously. I was able to gently yet effectively exfoliate my face and neck, revealing glowing and smooth skin. I love feel of the smooth side. It practically glides across your skin!

Speaking of dry skin, I have noticed for months now that my body overall has been a bit drier than usual. I gave the detox purifying charcoal body scrubber a try to see how it would work for me. I like the handy strap that is on the scrubber, which makes holding it without dropping it a lot easier. I have used it with either body wash or soap, and I like how well it lathers. This scrubber offers a gently scrub that you can feel, yet it's not harsh at all. I had no idea how bad my skin was until I got out of the shower and towel-dried myself off. My skin had that peachy-blush hue to it because that super dry layer had been exfoliated away. Even my moisturizer went in easier and seemed to really absorb better. 

We definitely recommend these fabulous products for anyone who wants to improve their skin texture. Self care is essential, even more so during the pandemic. Cleanlogic has so many great skin care items, and even a line for men. They offer FREE shipping on $20+ orders, and are even including a free holiday gift bag with purchase of select items. This definitely makes gift-giving a whole lot easier. Cleanlogic products make great holiday gifts or stocking stuffers. 

GIVEAWAY!!!

Our friends from Cleanlogic have offered a gift set for one lucky reader to win. Enter below: a Rafflecopter giveaway  

This giveaway is open to U.S. Residents only and ends on November 1, 2020. Must follow rules in Rafflecopter. One winner will be chosen randomly. Mom Files is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

Pros and Cons of Invisalign for Adults

Some people have crowded or crooked teeth which make them feel embarrassed about their smile. To achieve a perfect smile, the most obvious solution for such an orthodontic problem is to opt for braces. However, there is a better alternative for most teens and adults. It is none other than Invisalign. 

What Is Invisalign?

For those of you that do not know what Invisalign is, it is a clear set of hard plastic aligners which are placed in the mouth. Dr. Bagheri of New York Total Dental believes Invisalign is a wonderful and more esthetic alternative to braces. The aligners need to be checked over a course of the first few months and replaced while the teeth are aligned into a proper position. Invisalign has become a popular choice among teens and adults who are looking for a more aesthetically pleasing option. If you are considering getting Invisalign, the following pros and cons of Invisalign will help you make that final decision.

Pros of Invisalign

There are many benefits of getting Invisalign instead of the traditional metallic braces. Some of the advantages of a clear set of aligners are mentioned below.

1. Comfort

One of the best things about getting Invisalign is that they are a lot more comfortable to wear. As there are no brackets or wires, you do not need to stress about getting cuts or nicks in the mouth. They tend to be quite smooth and do not cause any irritation. There are no sharp edges which make Invisalign the ultimate choice.

2. More Attractive

If there is one thing about Invisalign that everyone will agree with, it is the fact that it is a more attractive option. As Invisalign is transparent, it allows your teeth to shine instead of filling your mouth with metal. When you get Invisalign, most people would not even notice that you are wearing them. This means that you would feel more comfortable when smiling rather than feeling self-conscious. Thus, adults prefer Invisalign when opting for an orthodontic treatment.

3. Convenience

More and more adults are getting Invisalign. It has become a norm when it comes to straightening the teeth. Rather than having to deal with metal braces, Invisalign provides you with amazing convenience that is unlike any other orthodontic option. 

4. Easy to Remove

Whenever you want to eat, brush, or floss, you can easily remove the Invisalign aligners. The same cannot be said about braces. This means that you would enjoy eating foods that you want and maintain better oral hygiene. In addition to this, there would be a lower risk of developing gum disease as you undergo the process of straightening the teeth. You do not need to stress about food particles coming in the way.

5. Minimal Maintenance

Finally, Invisalign aligners are a great option since they require minimal maintenance. Although they can get somewhat dingy over time, you can easily clean them up by making use of a toothbrush that is dipped in some bleach and water. Eliminate any stains by scrubbing the toothbrush.

Cons of Invisalign

Just like any other option, Invisalign does have its cons. These are mentioned below.

1. Expensive

One of the first things that people notice is the high cost of Invisalign. It can be quite an expensive option, especially considering the fact that you would not be covered by dental insurance. Thus, you would have to pay out of pocket. Expect to pay around $3,000 to $7,500 for the treatment. This can discourage individuals who are on a tight budget.

2. Attachments

Another disadvantage of Invisalign is that there are many attachments that you have to deal with. These attachments tend to be enamel ridges that stick onto your teeth similar to brackets. However, they are crucial for ensuring that the aligners fit perfectly and effectively shift your teeth into the desired position.

3. Requirement to Wear 22 Hours Every Day

To achieve that perfect smile, Invisalign has to be worn at least 22 hours every day. The truth is that you can only remove them to maintain daily oral hygiene and eating. This means that if you were to go out on a date or party, you would have to put them on.

4. Tooth Discomfort

When you first get new Invisalign aligners, you would find them to be uncomfortable to wear. It is because every time you get new Invisalign aligner trays, they will exert pressure to adjust your teeth which can be painful.

Conclusion

Now that you know about the pros and cons of Invisalign, you can decide whether you should get them or not. Remember, there is always a price for beauty. 

How a Simple Facial Benefits Your Skin

Keeping your skin healthy requires a bit of work. Of course, you should use a high-quality moisturizer each day and sunscreen of at least 15 SPF. You also need to cleanse your face daily. The things you do on a monthly basis matter, too. Once per month, you should visit a Spokane facial spa for a complete facial. This addition to your skincare routine provides deep cleaning and specialized skin treatments that improve the skin’s health. 

The term facial refers to a skin treatment comprised of multiple steps and multiple skin treatments. It usually includes:

• steam to open pores,
• face masks to treat special problems such as acne or wrinkles,
• exfoliation to remove dead skin,
• cleansing to deeply clean the skin,
• facial massage to stimulate proper blood flow,
• application of creams, lotions, or serums to treat the skin’s special problems.

You could go in for a general facial, but your skin will benefit the most by choosing a special treatment that hones in on the special skin problem and provides it with a focused treatment. Some options include moisturizing facials, firming and restoration facials, and extraction facials. If you are interested in exploring the benefits of getting a facial and finding out what treatments might work for you, you should start by searching online for a reputable aesthetician in your area. For example, if you are based in Pennsylvania, you can search "facial near me in Harrisburg, PA" to find the best facial offerings in and around Harrisburg. You should always book a consultation before getting any full facial treatments. 

A facial removes dirt, toxins, and oil buildup from your skin. It removes dead skin cells through deep exfoliation methods like microdermabrasion. By unclogging your skin’s pores, the facial products can better absorb into the skin to do their job. Undergoing an extraction facial removes blackheads and whiteheads plus treats pimples to quickly clean up breakout and prevent new ones. An anti-aging facial slows down the skin’s aging process and prevents wrinkles. This includes a facial massage that results in increased oxygen flow and blood circulation plus professional level anti-aging creams and serums to deeply penetrate the skin and result in a visible difference as well as enhancing elasticity and collagen production.

The best facials come from a trained aesthetician, a professional who undergoes training in how to apply facial products and treatments and how to best perform facial massage. An aesthetician can analyze your skin and recommend a daily skincare routine that also benefits your skin. During the process of these monthly treatments, the aesthetician examines your skin for suspicious spots and moles. They alert you to any problems found. 

Facials help with more than common problems like acne and wrinkles. You can also get a facial that helps treat problems like sun spots, sun damage, rosacea, and eczema.

While a facial might sound like something only for the wealthy, it remains an affordable service at most spas and helps improve your skin’s look and health. That makes it more than simply an occasional treat, but an imperative part of a healthy skincare routine. Every four to six weeks, you should undergo a facial. While you can do a mini-facial at home in between visits, your aesthetician provides important advice, tips, and services that go beyond what you can do yourself. Their special training makes them especially adept at noticing skin changes that could point to a more serious issue such as skin cancer.

How To Write Formal Letters

While crafting letters may seem unnecessary or even antiquated at times, letter writing is a solid method of communication that can assist you when it comes to resolving issues or continuing on your path to success. Whether you're writing for school, legal purposes or employment, it's important to know the distinct differences between several kinds of letters. 

Requesting Incident or Injury Compensation

If you were in an accident or had damage done to your property or possessions, writing a demand letter could potentially open up the conversation between you and the recipient. These kinds of letters are not meant to replace legal counsel or action, but rather to remind the offending party what exactly happened and what is owed to you. The use of demand letters is popular in negotiations because they lay out the facts, speed up the settling process, and often save both parties time and money. When writing a demand letter, be sure to stick to the facts and remind the recipient that they owe you what is fair. A good tactic to note is that you shouldn't necessarily send a letter right away; sometimes, it's best to wait until after initial negotiations so that you can receive a fair amount at the end of your case. 

Applying For a Job

If you think that cover letters are a thing of the past, think again. Cover letters help you stand out against the competition. By distinguishing yourself as an experienced, educated and well-informed candidate in a concise, attention-grabbing letter, hiring managers are more likely to take a second glance at your resume. Begin by checking out these job-winning cover letter examples to kick off your  letter-writing process. You must be sure to thoroughly research the company you are looking to apply at. Include bits of information and key words from their website to further prove that you are a qualified and prepared candidate. Start strong in your letter by explaining why you'd be the perfect fit for the company, then delve into your personal experience and how it would help you succeed in the position to which you're applying. Doing so will say to the hiring manager that you are willing to put in the extra work, do the research and get the job done right.

Recommending Someone

A letter of recommendation comes highly regarded in both schools and business. They boost credibility, as well as provide a deeper look into someone's personal and professional experiences. Writing a letter of recommendation takes a bit more research than one might anticipate, though. Before you begin writing solely about the candidate and how wonderful they are, consider the role they're looking to assume. If they're applying to be a teacher, you might not want to discuss in detail their retail experience. Perhaps research the school they want to work at and use the school's mission statement in conjunction with your description of the candidate; this way, the school will see a correlation between their values and the candidate's. 

Formal letters are not so much a thing of the past as they are a tried-and-true method in getting the desired result to your actions. Before you agree to a first offer in negotiations or send in a resume without a cover letter, consider how a simple note could get you where you need to go.

Perks of Being the Designated Driver

When a group is getting together to drink, it's important to determine a designated driver before the party starts. Many people see the designated driver as the unlucky one — the person who has to sit the night out and babysit. This is not the case. Being your group's driver has some hidden perks and you can have just as much fun — if not more — as everybody else. 

Free Beverages

Any responsible drinker understands DUI laws and knows how important designated drivers are, and many venues show their appreciation for this role by providing free soda or coffee. Be sure to mention to the bartender or server that you are the driver when ordering your soda. If the bar or restaurant doesn't provide this for you, there's a good chance your friends will — after all, you're the linchpin of the party.

Timeless Photos 

When you are helping your friends get around safely, you have a very unique position: you're the sober one. That may seem obvious, but being the sober person in the group means you're seeing things in a way the others aren't. Keep your camera at the ready, because your friends are bound to do something that will be worth laughing at once they sober up. When done in good fun, these photos can become an expected tradition within the group — whoever drives can also be expected to document the night's high jinks. 

Avoiding Regrets

In vino veritas (Latin for "in wine, there is truth"), but in soberness, there is discretion. Throughout history, people have woken up the next morning only to find out the may have said something they had intended to keep to themselves. Making sure you're in full control of what you say or do is especially valuable if you are around people you may have something to say that you'd rather keep as an internal dialogue. 

Speaking of waking up the next morning, if you don't drink, you can't have a hangover. This is particularly valuable if the party is part of an important event, such as the night before a wedding. 

Calling the Shots 

Perhaps one of the better parts of taking on the role of the driver is that you become the decision-maker. You get to decide how many stops will be made, what music you listen to in the car and where you'll eat. Your car; your rules.

Maybe best of all, when you decide you're done and want to go home, the others either have to leave when you decide to leave or pay for a cab. If any member of the group is not coming home with you for whatever reason, it is your job to ensure they have a safe ride home secured before you separate.

Being the designated driver is much more than being the person who can't drink. You'll not only create good memories by staying sober, but you'll also show your friends you care about them and want them to have a good time. The driver's job is to make sure everyone is safe, and by no means does that mean sitting the night out. 

5 Tips To Improve Your Home's Energy Efficiency

Are you concerned that the cost of your monthly bills is rising?  Or perhaps you’re concerned that your home isn’t very environmentally friendly.  Either way, now is a good time to improve your home’s energy efficiency. 

Here are 5 tips to help you become more energy efficient. 

IMPROVE YOUR HEATING AND COOLING SYSTEMS

Where you live will depend on how much you use heating and air conditioning in your home, but one thing is for certain, you can reduce the amount of energy you consume.

Make sure that any heating or cooling systems you use are regularly serviced. This will keep them running at their optimum efficiency.  Older systems will undoubtedly be less efficient than newer systems.  So, if you’re thinking of replacing it with new, do your homework.  Make sure you upgrade to the best energy-rated systems you can afford.

Although you’ll have to consider any new air conditioning, heat pump or boiler installation costs when replacing existing heating and cooling systems, don’t let the initial outlay put you off.  Think about the long-term benefits.

ADD SOLAR PANELS

Particularly if you live in a warmer climate, it’s worth contemplating the installation of solar panels.  But don’t think that they are just for use in sun-drenched states, solar panels can work even in cloudy weather.  

If you’re unsure whether solar panels are a good choice for your home and budget, get a professional installer to survey your home before making any commitments.  If the installation needs further work to your roof for instance, it may not be financially viable. Again, you’ll need to weigh up the long-term benefits.

DO YOUR MAINTENANCE

Make yourself a regular maintenance checklist to keep on top of those energy-sapping problems around your home.

What tasks can you do to make your home function better?  Draughty windows and doors lead us to use our heating more.  Whereas windows that are overshadowed by foliage will block light and lead us to use our lighting more. Go around your house and make a list of things that may need attention.

ADD INSULATION

Your home could benefit from insulation, or better insulation.  Check whether your loft or attic space is insulated.  If it is, but you’re not sure when it was installed, check the condition and thickness of the insulation you have.  Could replacing it or adding to it improve your home’s warmth?

REDUCE YOUR ENERGY USAGE

And lastly, the easy bit.  Do those little things to make a big difference over time.  Change your light bulbs to energy efficient ones.  Unplug electrical appliances when you’re not using them.  

If you’re not sure where your energy usage could be improved, try using a smart meter.  You’ll soon identify when and where your usage is high, so you’ll be able to take steps to reduce your energy consumption.

Welch's Fruit Snacks Are Now Available to Buy In Bulk From Amazon

Do you feel like your kids can't seem to stop eating and snacking? Of course many of us still have kids at home during the pandemic, since many schools are still not open for face-to-face learning. This means keeping extra snacks on hand are a must. Luckily, Welch's Fruit Snacks are now available in a bulk size for purchase on Amazon. That's right, you can get the 110-ct package of their mouthwatering flavors: Mixed Fruit and Berries 'n Cherries in a combo pack! 

Welch's fruit snacks have been a popular snack and lunchbox items for my kids for many years now. The are known to be America's #1 fruit snack for a reason. The first ingredient is fruit of course, and they are an excellent source of Vitamins A, C and E. Welch's fruit snacks are also contain no preservatives and are fat free & gluten free. This is definitely a plus for parents! 

They are perfect as a quick snack while they wait for a meal, or while out-and-about in the car running errands with mom or dad. I love keeping a couple packs stashed in my purse for that just-in-case snack. My adult daughters love filling the work jar with these delicious fruit snacks to share with co-workers. Adults love them just as much as kids do. 

*This post may contain affiliate links. 

With Halloween coming, Welch's Fruit Snacks are perfect to share with classmates and trick-or-treaters. Don't forget when you make your next Amazon order, add the 110-ct combo pack of Welch's Fruit snacks on your list! If you're a Prime customer, you can get FREE one-day shipping. You can buy them here. 

Thanks for stopping by today, and thank you Welch's Fruit Snacks for the tasty samples. All opinions are our own. 

Understanding Reverse Mortgage Talk

Retirement is supposed to be a fun and relaxing time for people. If you don’t pay attention to the financial side of things in the years leading up to it, you could find yourself in a rough spot when that time arrives. A reverse mortgage is one of the most sound ways of getting around the financial strains that come with retirement. When you first start investigating, there may be some terms and concepts you are not familiar with. Do not panic! We want to help you by breaking down the basics. 

Finding the value of your home

During the duration of your home ownership years, you most likely will make improvements to your property. This is one of several factors that could influence the overall value of the home. Others might include how old the home is, whether or not the area the home is located in is considered desirable, and if you still have an active mortgage on the house. 

Understanding a Reverse Mortgage Calculator 

The reverse mortgage calculator is a central component of the reverse mortgage application process. It is a subjective way for the bank (or any other lender) to determine how much money you can borrow in the form of a reverse mortgage. Because government has implemented laws that prevent you from borrowing the full value amount of your house, the reverse mortgage calculator will help to determine what percentage of that you will be able to borrow. It calculates the value and the applicable percentage.

But what is an HECM, then?

The concept of reverse home loan comes down to the fact that the surety of the bond is linked to your house, and that the loan can provide you with a source of money each month for as long as you choose to live in the house, as opposed to a traditional loan, where you would have been liable for paying the loan back in monthly payments during the course of its validity. 

HECM is very similar. It stands for home equity conversion mortgage, and it is also a reverse loan, but what makes it different is that it is issued by a federal agency and not by banks. The chief difference is that an HECM is insured by government, whereas a privately-issued reverse mortgage is not. 

Receiving your reverse home loan money

One of the most popular ways of doing this is to take it out as a line of credit. Another is to opt for being paid out all in one go, as a lump sum payment. There is also the option of taking receipt of your money in the form of monthly payments of equal value. Many people like this option, as the prospect of a predictable amount coming in monthly gives them a way to budget these funds. Of course, the same applies as if you were drawing a regular salary: you’ll have to keep your spending in check to prevent running out of money!

6 Tips to Help You Start Your Owning Catering Business

Starting your own catering business can be a great choice that can help you be on your way to becoming a successful entrepreneur. On top of this, you get the opportunity to work from home and establish an outstanding work-life balance.

In this article, we are going to talk about six tips to help you get started! Sound interesting? Then keep on reading!

Choose a catering style

The very first step in starting a catering company is to choose a particular style. For example, you might think about focusing on business events, weddings, or funeral wakes. You also can decide what style of food you will be making. While some caterers offer both sweet and savory options, others offer grazing platters or desserts only.

Design a menu

Once you’ve got an idea of what type of catering services you will be offering, you can then move on to designing a menu. This is the tricky part, as you want to be able to serve great food, easily and quickly. You have to remember that you will be serving multiple guests, so you need to be able to do most of the preparation in advance. Check out these tips for planning a menu for more inspiration and advice.

Sort out the paperwork 

Just like any other business, there is always going to be paperwork to sort out before you can operate. Permits, licenses, and tax forms all need to be completed before you can start serving your clients. It may be irritating, but it’s better to get it sorted out first to avoid issues further on down the track.

Source your ingredients

Once you’ve got a menu established, you can also start sourcing your ingredients. In order to save money, try shopping at local markets. You might even look at finding a distributor. You can get chicken meat by poultryeu.eu and even find fresh fruit and veg wholesalers to make your overall ingredient costs much more affordable.

Purchase the necessary equipment 

Just like the ingredients, there is also going to be equipment that you need before starting your catering business. You will need to invest in catering delivery bags to transport food. From platters, cooking gadgets, and cutlery, there is certainly a lot to think about. Try searching for items that you can buy in bulk, and don’t forget to check out garage sales and thrift stores. You never know what you might find!

Advertise

Lastly, once all that is in order, you can now move on to advertising your business! Get creative with different methods, such as social media, print, and radio advertising. There are many different options, but make sure you stick to a budget so that you don’t go overboard. Check out these inexpensive ways to advertise your small business if you are a bit strapped for cash!

And that’s it! These were six different tips to start your own catering business. You’ll have everything ready in no time and be on your way to establishing a successful company out of your own home. Good luck!

Keep Your Electronics Charged While On-The-Go With The Eggtronic Laptop Power Bank

Do you ever think about what your life would be like without any electronic devices? I am quite certain most if us would be lost! There is a not a day that I'm not using my phone, laptop or tablet. They have become a such a big part of daily life whether it's for work, keeping up with friends on social media or simply listening to music or playing a game to relax. I recall recently being at our local precinct to vote in the primary election. We had no idea that we were going to be standing in line for 4.5 hours. Guess who had their phones on only a half charge? It's a horrible feeling when you watch the phone battery bar go in the red, and slowly deplete. 

With all of us being super dependent on our electronics, especially with more people working from home and kids doing virtual school, we have to stay charged at all times. We were so happy to receive a laptop power bank from Eggtronic to try out. I don't even want to discuss how many devices we have in our home. There are times when we work outside on the back porch, and having a portable charger comes in handy. The package included: Laptop Power Bank, USB-C to USB-C cable (3ft), USB-C to USB-A adapter tip, user manual. It offers Universal compatibility with all USB-C and USB devices. 

It lets you recharge up to three devices simultaneously through its three ports: 45W USB-C Power Delivery, USB Quick Charge and standard USB 2.1A. The generous 20,000mAh battery capacity equals 4-8 charges for your smartphone, 3-5 charges for your tablet or 1.5 charges for your laptop. 

The two high-power fast charge ports (USB-C PD and USB Quick Charge) save you valuable time. Looking to top up your Macbook or other USB-C laptop? The 45W USB-C Power Delivery output fast charges it. Stylish and practically designed with soft water-repellent canvas and an easy-to-read LCD display. 

The Eggtronic laptop power bank would make the perfect gift this upcoming holiday season for practically anyone on your list. It retails for under $90 and definitely delivers a powerful and fast charge for your devices. It is perfect to have during the storm season when the power is likely to go out. Since this power bank holds a charge for an extended time, you will have more peace of mind that you are able to keep your devices charged in the event of an emergency. Also, since you can charge multiple devices at once, this will make those long road trips with the family a bit easier. No more fighting for the charger. 

Our family definitely recommends this power bank. Thank you so much Eggtronic for the product sample. All opinions are our own. Thank you for stopping by today! 

How RedDrop is Helping Parents Prepare for Their Daughter's First Period

If you are a woman, you probably would never want to revisit those years when your body and emotions took on huge changes. I remember growing up in a strict home where talking about the changes a girl's body goes through during puberty was a bit taboo. I don't understand why that was the case when every girls' body will change and they will get their period. I unfortunately had to learn from school and friends. Thankfully I knew I had to do a better job as a mom to my own daughters when the time came. 

It's definitely not a fun talk to have with your daughters, but a very necessary one. After all, you don't want them to feel bad about something that is natural. If you have young daughter, it's a good idea to have a plan to discuss what to expect when she gets her period for the first time. 

RedDrop is the first feminine hygiene brand designed specifically to empower school age girls. They offer a subscription service just for girls. The Red Drop period kit is a must-have for every girl. It is filled with everything she will need to feel confident for when her period starts. Check out the kit: 

The RedDrop Period Kit contains everything a girl needs for the moment her cycle begins. They will ship the following pieces directly to your door, packaged to remind her that she's special:

• 30 Everyday Pads for daily use 
• 14 FlowDay Pads for heavy flow days
• 14 FlowNight Pads for a comfortable night's sleep
• 12 Feminine Wipes individually wrapped for easy carry
• 1 Hand Bag to discreetly carry it all
• 1 Special Gift just for her

No need to select a size or level of absorbency. They pack each option she'll need, so she's ready for whatever life throws at you both. The retail price for the period kit is $29.99. The packaging is super nice, and I love the little pouch that can be refilled with feminine products for your daughter to toss in her purse, book bag or gym bag. 

The plus side of this kit is that the products are made just for a smaller size body. Many of the pads available in stores are definitely too big for most girls' bodies. This period kit would be well-received as a gift, and a great way to discuss this time of her life. I can see sending this to your daughter, niece, or any friend or family member getting ready to go through this milestone. Be sure to check out RedDrop at their website and social channels ( Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter). 

Many thanks to RedDrop for sending us a kit so we can share the news about the brand. 

The Best Tips To Remember After a Car Accident

Driving can offer a person a lot of freedom in life. The ability to get wherever you need to go by hopping behind the wheel of a vehicle is wildly helpful. Of course, driving is also a massive responsibility. Anything can go wrong on the road and true safety requires all motorists to be mindful at all times. Still, accidents can and will happen. Should you experience a crash in the near future, you need to know what steps to take. Remember these points and you will have an easier time managing the situation. 

Assess the Scene

An accident can easily be overwhelming and confusing. Depending on the severity of the crash, you may not know exactly what has happened when the dust has settled. As long as you and the other passengers in your vehicle are safe and there’s no pressing danger, get out of the vehicle and see how the other motorist or motorists are faring. Take a moment to assess the scene and see how bad everything actually is. Contact emergency services and have officers come to the scene in order to create a report for insurance purposes.

Document Everything

Your auto insurance is going to determine whether or not you receive any compensation after the accident. More often than not, the insurance agency you have a policy with will need proof of every detail related to the crash. Insurance agencies don’t like to pay out unless they have to, so try to document everything you can at the scene of the accident. The police report definitely helps, but use your phone to also take photos of your vehicle, the other involved cars, and anything else that may prove useful later.

Contact a Professional

Once the emergency responders have left and you are able to leave the scene of the accident yourself, you need to think about what your next steps are. If the crash was minor and there was no damage to any person or vehicle involved, there may not be a need for further action. However, there also can be some seriously complicated scenarios that arise from this. Reaching out and speaking with a car accident lawyer is an excellent way for you to get a feel for what you should do to prepare for possible legal action.

Get Your Vehicle Fixed

Whether or not you are receiving an insurance payout for the crash, you absolutely will need to have your car fixed if damage was done. If your vehicle took on some dings or requires some immersive repairs, then start shopping around for an appropriate mechanic. In some cases, the insurance agency may require you go to a certain garage for your repairs. Be certain of these details in advance so you don’t accidentally shoot yourself in the foot. This is rarely the case, however, so simply ask your agent what you should do before making any moves.

While a car crash might be a jarring situation, it is important to think about how you should react after the dust has settled. Take a breath, assess the scene, and follow the most sensible steps to help yourself see the best results.

4 Career Paths in Criminal Justice

If you want to work in criminal justice and are not sure what kind of job you would like, you have a large list of options. You can be involved in the judicial process at any stage, from a person's arrest and conditional release with a cash bail bond to the end of their prison sentence and beyond. 

1. Law Enforcement

This is the most obvious path for someone with a criminal justice degree. You could serve your community by working as an officer for your local or state police department. Police officers have direct interactions with members of the community including those who have obtained Carver County bail bonds. If you would like to become a detective, you will usually have to start by spending a few years as a police officer first. 

If you gather some experience in local law enforcement, you may be able to move on to a job with a large government agency like the FBI, ATF or DEA. The FBI has a wide focus and investigates violations of federal law. The ATF's job is to solve cases having to do with guns, fire and explosives. DEA agents can break up large drug operations and save lives in the process. 

2. Forensics

If you would like to focus on science as well as criminal justice, a career in forensics may suit you. You may want to minor or double major in chemistry or biology if you would like to pursue this path. You have probably seen television programs with forensic scientists who analyze DNA or assist detectives at crime scenes. While jobs in forensics may not be as glamorous or easy as shown on TV, they are interesting and vital. You could specialize in analyzing specific types of evidence like DNA, blood spatter or ballistics. 

Not all forensic professionals have to handle biological materials. Some focus on evaluating evidence in computers, documents or financial records. 

3. Correctional System

Professionals who are employed in the correctional system watch over people convicted of crimes during and after their time in a correctional facility. There are usually many jobs available as corrections officers or counselors. You may only need an associate degree for those professions. Corrections officers are in charge making sure prisoners follow rules. They provide detailed documentation of prisoners' activities for their superiors. 

One advantage of working in corrections is the opportunity to help prisoners rebuild their lives. This can begin inside the prison as a correction counselor. They help inmates with mental health issues and can also provide training and education. You could also support people who were recently released from prison as a parole officer. You would keep in touch with former prisoners to prevent them from re-offending and aid them in finding homes and steady jobs. 

 

4. Legal System

If you would like to be a lawyer or judge, your criminal justice program will have to prepare you to pass the Uniform Bar Examination, commonly known as the bar exam. This would entail earning an undergraduate degree as well as attending law school. There are many other jobs in the legal system that require less education like paralegals, court clerks, bailiffs and court reporters. 

Types of Insurance You Should Buy

Life can take a turn you were less than prepared for. When you get sick or have something happen to your house or car, it can leave you in a great deal of debt. Insurance can handle these costs for you or make the payment of them more manageable for your family. Here are a few types you should consider purchasing. 

Car Insurance

Auto insurance is required by many states when you are behind the wheel at any time. This will protect you, your passengers, and your assets if you are ever in a car accident. It will also cover your automobile if it is stolen or if it is damaged by vandalism or weather. There are various types of plans that you can purchase depending on the age of your vehicle, whether you have a loan on it with the bank, and if your area requires certain coverages such as personal injury protection. 

The amount you will pay a month can fluctuate depending on your age, the members of your family, and the type of car you drive. Contact several agencies near you to ask for a quote then select the one that works in your budget and has the coverage that you need. Once you have your insurance card from your agent, place it somewhere safe in your vehicle like your glove compartment so that it is easily accessible when you need to get to it. 

Home Insurance

Whether you own your place or rent it, you need to purchase homeowner or renter’s insurance. If you lease an apartment, it can be a requirement to live there. This policy will repair your house and the items inside it if they are damaged by weather, a fire, a broken pipe inside the structure, or any malfunction that can cause problems for you. It will replace your possessions if they are stolen.  It will also take care of the expenses for someone who is injured on your property. 

If you live in an area where certain acts of nature can destroy buildings, such as floods or hurricanes, you can invest in additional plans along with your home insurance to protect you from these events. 

Health Insurance

Medical expenses can become expensive very quickly. Health insurance can absorb most of that cost in the event you or someone in your family falls sick or gets injured and must seek the care of a doctor or be admitted into the hospital. There is usually a deductible you must pay on the bill then your coverage will take care of the rest. 

Many policies will also offer dental and vision to you as well. Ask your employer if they offer health insurance to you and what you must do to qualify for it. There are many programs that can help you get low-cost medical coverage. Be aware of what your deductible is before you see the doctor and check to see if your policy covers any pre-existing conditions that you had before you signed up for it. 

 

Feeling Overtired? Here’s How To Naturally Get Better Sleep

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Moms seem to have this supernatural ability to keep going throughout the day on very little sleep. With just fumes in the tank, they manage to find a way to get everything done.

From work, to kids to school to sleepless nights it seems that there are just not enough hours in the day. Well, the thing is that eventually you will start to feel run down. And this can lead to health problems later on down the road.

Time to make sure that you are getting enough sleep so you don’t feel like you’re always running on empty. That cup of coffee can only do so much, after all.

In this article, I will go over some ideas on how to make sure that you are getting more sleep so you’ll have more energy and maybe even help you become a morning person!

1 - Reduce stress

Yes, it is easier said than done, but there are some routines you can practice to try to stay calm and not let stress take over and ruin your sleep. Stress builds up cortisol levels in your system and that causes your hormones to get out of balance.

When that happens, your internal clock can get thrown off. You need to get more serotonin flowing instead of the cortisol which will keep your mind off of the stress and help you find some balance.

Meditating with aromatherapy beads from Kumi is a great way to get rid of stress. When you do it regularly, it will keep the stress from creeping up on you so you can feel calm and ready to sleep when it’s time.

Yoga is also a great way to do this and it helps keep you in good shape, too. Doing exercise is a very effective stress reliever as it pumps your system full of endorphins which just make you feel good. When you do yoga you get the endorphins as well as help clear your mind and stay focused on the present.

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2 - Make your bedroom cozy

If you have clutter in your bedroom, find a way to organize it as clutter can be depressing and lead to difficulty sleeping.

Your bedroom needs to be an oasis so you have a place to go and get the rest you need to take on the day. After getting things organized so your bedroom is tidy, you should also focus on the lighting. Soft lights are best, especially red so it creates an atmosphere that makes you sleepy.

You should also use some aromatherapy there, too. Add a diffuser that spreads aromas like lavender to help you sleep.

3 - Put the phone down

The blue light emitted from phones and tablets is known to disrupt melatonin production which is responsible for telling the brain to shut down for sleep. If you like to browse your social media before bed, make it a point not to. At least 30 minutes before bed, you should put your devices away and not look at them.

We hope these tips can help you get a better night's sleep.

Reasons To Try Online Grocery Shopping

In the world today, everything moves a mile a minute. It's like the universe is on hyperdrive, and humans are along for the ride. With all the world's responsibilities, sometimes it feels like there isn't enough time in the day. Shopping online for clothes and other household items saves time, but you could save even more time by shopping for your groceries online, too. It may sound scary to think about someone picking out your produce, but there are many added benefits to visiting Good Market and giving online grocery shopping a try.

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1. No more struggles with kids. 

What should be an in-and-out trip can end up feeling like a marathon when you have to bring your kids to the store. They want to try everything and are mesmerized by the simplest snacks. To make it worse, it's so hard to say no when they see something they want, even if you had no intention of buying the item. Online grocery shopping takes away the ticking time bomb of how your kids may respond during a grocery store visit. You can spend time with them doing activities they actually enjoy and still come home to fresh food everyone loves.

2. No more frustration. 

Don't you hate it when you walk into the grocery store, and it's totally redone? Now, the milk is where the meat should be, and you're all turned around trying to check the items off your list. Instead of getting caught off guard with store renovations or struggling severely to find the one item you need for your cheesy potatoes, online shopping takes away this added stress. The people who work at the store know where everything is and can get every item you need, without making you tenser. Leave it to the experts, and you'll end with everything you ordered and none of the frustration.

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3. No more impulse buying. 

Standing in line waiting to check out is probably the worst part of shopping because you end up with 10 more items than you intended. Whether it's the chocolate bar or tabloid magazine, impulse buying is a serious issue. These extra purchases add up and can cost you a lot of money in the long run. However, when you order your list online, there's no temptation to buy what you don't need. Your wallet will thank you.

Trying something new can be scary, but it may lead you to something you never knew you needed. Online grocery shopping will give you more freedom to enjoy the things you love and multiply your valuable time.

Why You Need to Take Care of Your Scalp

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Most of us take good care of our hair. We wash it using expensive products and go to the hairdressers every few weeks. Yet, few of us realize the importance of taking care of our scalp as well.

There are several reasons you need to make using a scalp cleanser a regular part of your personal care regime. Below, are the most important of them.

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Your hair will suffer if your scalp is not in good condition

Every hair on your head starts life under your scalp in the hair follicles. So, naturally, if your scalp is not in a healthy condition it is practically impossible for strong hairs to be formed.

Scalp issues can cause you to go bald prematurely

If some of your hair follicles are covered by scabs they will not be able to function properly. This can lead to sparse hair growth. Over time, things can worsen to the point where you end up with actual bald patches.

An unhealthy scalp can lead to fungal infections

Some scalp conditions are caused by fungal infections. Usually, the infection will stay confined to that area of your body. But when you scratch your head, which you are likely to do quite a bit, there is a chance that the fungus can spread to other areas of your skin.

An unhealthy scalp can harbor bacteria

Some scalp conditions can lead to bacterial infections. Again, it is possible to spread these to other areas of the body by scratching then touching an open cut.

You can end up with greasy hair

Lipids are important compounds that your body uses to build new strands. Your body knows how much is needed to keep your hair looking healthy, so it sends the right level of fatty acids to your scalp to achieve the desired result. If some of your follicles are blocked you end up with too much of these lipids being sent to the other hairs. This is one of the underlying causes of greasy hair. You can read about more of them here.

Having an itchy sore scalp is uncomfortable

Lastly, if your scalp is in poor condition, it will be itchy maybe sore, which is extremely uncomfortable. Nobody wants to be constantly scratching their head.

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How to look after your scalp

Fortunately, it is not that difficult to keep your scalp in good condition. Get into the habit of using a scalp serum. These products are designed to nourish the area and kill off the most common funguses and bacteria that can make a home there.

Why you need to spot and tackle problems early

If you are not in the habit of actively checking your scalp, it is a good idea to start to do so. The faster you spot and address any problems you find, the better. Once you develop an issue with your scalp, treating it becomes difficult because your hair makes it almost impossible to apply enough topical creams and lotions to the right area.