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

image credit

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.

image credit

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.

image credit

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.

image credit

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

image credit

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.

image credit

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.

image credit

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.

Build a Strong Personal Injury Case with These Simple Suggestions

When you’ve been injured in an accident or event that wasn’t your fault, it’s difficult to know where to turn. You’re overwhelmed with pain, you can’t work so you’re struggling to pay your bills, sleepless nights and anxiety…your entire world has been turned upside down because of the negligence of someone else.

image credit

Speaking to a personal injury lawyer - such as this one - about your circumstances could work out well for your specific situation. Medical malpractice, birth injuries, car accidents, dog bites and slip and fall accidents... being the victim of an incident can have a severe impact on the rest of your life so it’s important to consider all your options going forward.

If you’re considering taking action against someone who has left you injured and effectively changed your life, then you may be wondering how you’ll prove what happened. It’s easy to believe that it’s simply your word against theirs…and if they have a legal team you might struggle to prove your side of the story.

Thankfully, there are some simple, yet effective ways you can build a strong personal injury case. Let’s explore them, below.

Get medical help

Seeking medical attention after your accident is the single, most important thing you can do for yourself and for your personal injury case. If you don't seek medical attention, how will you get better? And how will you prove that you had any injuries, to begin with?

Your doctor will provide treatment, and a subsequent treatment plan for you to follow all of which will be in your medical records. These records will allow your attorney and the other party to understand the injuries you sustained, the treatment you received, your recovery time, any subsequent therapies you may need and of course, the cost.

Take note of your feelings

Mental anguish is common after an accident. Anxiety, difficulty sleeping even PTSD can occur, taking control of your life and leaving your future uncertain. If you’re suffering mentally after the incident, take note of your feelings and your physical pain. Keeping a journal can help your personal injury attorney piece together what kind of compensation you might need to get your life back on track. 

image credit

Gather evidence at the scene

Documenting what happened is an essential piece of evidence that will be difficult to ignore. If you were in a crash, photograph the positions of the vehicle and the damage, if you tripped on a pothole in a parking lot, photograph it. The more evidence you have, the better.

Speak with witnesses

Did someone help you after you slipped and broke your leg in the supermarket? Getting their name and their side of the story could help you build a strong personal injury case. If someone saw what happened try to get their contact details, your attorney will then reach out to them.

And finally, do what your doctor tells you!

If your doctor has told you to rest your sprained ankle and yet videos of you roller-skating around your neighborhood surface online, then you're undermining your own case. Always follow the guidance of your doctor and attend every appointment.

What To Know Before Opening a Brewery

The number of breweries in the United States has increased dramatically in the past ten years. People have steered away from the standard pilsners and are more interested in craft beers. If you've been experimenting with home brewing, you might find yourself looking to expand and open a brewery of your own. Here are some things you'll want to consider before you get started though.

image credit

Choose a Location

It can be challenging to find the perfect location for your brewery. You need to find a place where people will feel comfortable and can relax and enjoy a beer together. However, your location also needs to be suitable to actually brewing the beer. The place you choose will set the tone for your brewery, so you want somewhere that gives off the right vibes for what you're going for. There are some really unique locations out there, such as an abandoned warehouse, an old high school, an empty factory, or you can always decide to build something more modern.

Know the Laws

Alcohol laws can get a little bit tricky, so it's important that you do your research in advance. Some places don't actually allow breweries to open in the county, so check before you make any big decisions. You'll want to look at whether you need a TABC permit or what other sorts of liquor license you might require. Some states allow people to buy cans from the breweries, while others only allow consumption on site. Check the laws in your area to find out more information.

image credit

Find Your Focus

There are many different styles of beer out there. You'll need to figure out if you want to make a batch of each kind or whether you want to focus more on a particular style. For instance, some breweries are known for their sour beers, while others mostly put out India Pale Ales. While having a few different styles available is always a good idea, having a focus can help you master a particular style.

It may seem like a lot of work, but if beer is your passion, it can be well worth it to get to share your love of beer with others. Take your time and be sure you're doing everything the right way. Talk to other brewery owners and get help along the way. Once your brewery is open, you'll find that all of your hard work has paid off.

The Beginner’s Guide to Home Loans

image credit

Okay, you’re finally ready to buy a house. You’re cruising the market, scouting neighborhoods, and just beginning to look at your finances. Unfortunately, however, house hunting is a lot more difficult than the shows on HGTV portray it to be. Here are a few basic financing terms you should know before showing up to your bank when looking for a house.

First, you should know what a mortgage is. A mortgage is essentially a long-term loan where you borrow money from a bank and pay it back, with interest, until you’re the full owner of whatever you bought. Basically, it’s a type of loan for property. It’s also usually a secured loan, where you put something up for collateral that the bank can take in case you stop making payments.

You also should understand what a loan is, more broadly. A loan technically occurs anytime one person borrows a lump sum of money and agrees to pay it back at a later date. Typically, formal loans involve interest, which means that you pay back a little more than you originally borrowed. Mortgages are always a type of loan, but not all loans are mortgages.

image credit

Home equity loans are loans for a set amount of money that’s secured by your home — in this case, your home is the collateral. The danger, here is, that you might lose your home if you stop making payments. But many use a home equity loan to make home improvements, pay for their child’s education, or invest in some other significant item — they’re usually used for big purchases that you can’t otherwise afford.

This is actually almost a synonym for a second mortgage, which is probably another term you’ve heard. They’re essentially the same, but have slightly different rules for how much you can borrow and when you can get the loan. Home equity loans typically occur after you already own a property, whereas a second mortgage can be taken out while you’re still paying off your first mortgage. Your credit history, financial state, and bank will all determine what you’re allowed to do, however.

Hopefully, this brief guide helped explain some of the differences between the types of loans you can take out as you prepare to buy a house. Nothing about the process is simple, but with a little research and a lot of expert help, you’ll be homeward-bound in no time — happy house hunting!

3 Things To Consider When Looking for Senior Housing

If you or a loved one have been having medical issues or could simply use some help with daily tasks, you may have been looking into senior housing Denver CO. Senior living communities can offer a number of benefits to residents, from accessible healthcare to a sense of community and more. As you narrow down your options, however, there are a few essential things you should keep in mind. Here are a few of the key factors you may want to look for in a senior home.

image credit

1. Levels of Provided Healthcare Vary

Depending on your or your loved one’s medical needs, having around-the-clock healthcare may or may not be important to you. While some health situations call for consistent care, others may simply require occasional check-ins. This is an important factor to consider before committing to a home, since not all homes provide the same degree of in-house healthcare. Some facilities help with bathing, dressing and nursing services; others may offer help with tasks like taking medication but lack on-call medical staff. Be sure to ask around at each home you visit to determine whether the level of care provided matches your medical needs.

image credit

2. Good Nutrition Makes a Difference

One thing that not all homes offer is quality dining. When you visit a home, ask about their nutritional planning and what types of foods they offer residents. This is especially important because many older adults have special nutritional needs. Additionally, if you or your loved one have allergies or dietary restrictions, be sure to ask if the facility would be willing or able to accommodate them.

3. Entertainment and Community Matter

Finally, don’t forget that when you’re living somewhere like Benchmark Senior Living, the entertainment provided and the sense of community between the residents can make all the difference in terms of the quality of your experience. Some homes offer regular community-building activities like bingo tournaments, movie nights, or musical events. When you’re visiting, pay attention to how residents interact with each other. If you’re looking for a close-knit community, for instance, seeing residents that are friendly and comfortable with each other may be a good sign that you’ll be able to find the companionship you’re looking for.

image credit

When you or your loved one need help with everyday tasks, would like consistent companionship or simply want accessible healthcare, moving to a senior living community may be a good decision. Choosing the right place, however, can involve balancing a number of different factors. When you’re searching for a home, keep these essential things in mind and you’re sure to choose the right senior home for your situation.

Top 3 Reasons To Consider Getting Insurance for Your New Horse

If you’re the proud owner of a new horse, you may have been looking around for the best horse insurance you can get your new animal. While owning a horse is a dream come true for many people and is likely an exciting time, it also comes with risks and responsibilities. It might seem intimidating to consider the risks that come with having a horse, but thankfully, a little preparation ahead of time is all it takes to put yourself and your horse in the best possible position to stay safe no matter what lies ahead. If you’re on the fence about whether you need insurance for your new friend, consider these important reasons insurance could help protect you and your horse.

image credit

1. Your Horse Could Have an Accident

If you’re planning on using your horse in equestrian sports, or even if you’re just keeping it for hobby riding, it’s important to keep in mind that accidents are always a possibility. While it might not be pleasant to think about, consider what you’ll do if your horse gets injured unexpectedly.

image credit

Without insurance, veterinarian bills could quickly burn a hole in your pocket or, in worst-case scenarios, even prevent your horse from accessing the quality care they need. If you have good insurance in place ahead of time, on the other hand, you won’t have to worry about out-of-pocket costs in the event of an accident. You can focus on getting your horse help right away.

2. Your Horse Could Pass Away

In a similar vein, if your horse should die before its time, you may be left with countless expenses but no horse to ride in competitions, for example. Certain insurance policies can help provide you another horse in these cases. If your horse has to be put down for medical reasons and you can get proof from your veterinarian that the horse could not be saved, you may be able to get compensation from your insurance company that you could then invest into your next horse.

3. You Can Protect Yourself From Lawsuits

Finally, if you happen to get sued because of alleged damages caused by your horse, having the right insurance policy can help protect you from certain liabilities. Without insurance, you may have a tougher time when legal issues arise.

Owning a horse can be a dream come true, but also entails potential risks that have to be taken into account. If you’re thinking about getting horse insurance, keep these key facts in mind and you’re sure to make the right decision for you and your new animal.

Top 5 Ways To Make Your Upholstery Last

You've invested a lot of money in your upholstery. You spent time doing your homework on Joybird reviews furniture to choose just the right sofas and chairs. Now it's time to take good care of them.

image credit

1. Vacuum Regularly

You should vacuum dirt and pet hair away from your upholstery about once per week. Use a vacuum attachment with a brush that is made for furniture. This will keep dust, soil and hair from getting stuck in the weave of the fabric.

2. Revive and Flip Cushions

If possible, shuffle the cushions on your couch once in a while to make sure that they are each used consistently. Flip other cushions and pillows regularly to ensure that they wear equally on both sides. These items will eventually become flat or stretched from use. Hit cushions gently with your hands to get them back in shape and keep the furniture you found through Joybird reviews comfy.

image credit

3. Use Stain Protectors

Purchase a fabric protector spray as soon as you get new upholstery. Make sure that you follow the instructions and perform a color test on an unseen part of the fabric before spraying the entire piece. This coats the fabric and makes it repel stains. 

4. Clean Stains Immediately

Just like you did with the stain protector spray, test upholstery cleaning spray on a hidden part of the furniture or curtain. Do not allow the stain to dry before you clean it up.

5. Utilize Yearly Professional Cleaning

Even if you keep up with the regular maintenance of your upholstery, there is no substitute for a professional cleaning service. You should have this done every year or two. A qualified cleaner will have special equipment and cleaning products to take care of stains and buried dirt that you cannot get rid of on your own. They can make your upholstery look new and apply a powerful stain protector.

How To Manage Your Time

Getting to the end of your week and wondering why you haven't made a dent in your to-do list can be frustrating. While you can't spin time out of thin air, there are strategies to managing the time you do have more efficiently.

image credit

Write It Down

If you're not sure where all your time is going, keep a log for a week. It may seem tedious to track every activity but you'll have powerful insights when you're done. You may be surprised by how much time you're losing to scrolling apps or watching TV. You don't need to eliminate these activities but you can be mindful of how much of your day they're eating. Habits or automatic behaviors are hard to see when you're in them. Writing them down forces you to be honest. You can also look at your phone to see where all your screen time is going but ideally, this isn't your whole day.

Pay Someone Else 

If you've taken stock of how your time is being spent and there's simply nowhere to cut back, consider hiring someone for tasks you don't enjoy. Get your weekends back and find a neighborhood kid to cut your grass. Use a meal delivery service for those nights you'd rather not cook.

Plan Ahead

If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. It's a cliche, but it's also true. Write down your goals for the day. You can do this at night or in the morning, just make sure you do it. Another mantra is 'eat the frog.' Take on your biggest chore first thing in the day. You'll be more likely to accomplish it when you're still fresh.

image credit

Get Healthy

Your brain needs to function properly to make decisions. Poor diet, lack of exercise and too much alcohol can all contribute to a less than ideal mental state. A sugar high can rob you of as much as five hours of productive thinking. Replacing bad habits with healthy ones helps you maintain focus.

Get Organized

Even laser-like focus won't save you any time if your priorities are all over the place. Organize your files, organize your goals, organize your bathroom, organize anything that feels cluttered and messy. Having a system lets you spend less time hunting for things and more time doing what you intend to do.

image credit

Stop Procrastinating

Most time wasting activities are just another form of procrastination. If you're having a hard time getting started try devoting just ten minutes to a task. Once you're moving, you'll find that continuing isn't as hard as you'd thought.

Examine Your Values 

When all else fails, take a long hard look at why you're doing what you're doing. Are you in the wrong job? Can you ask for less hours? Could you make more money doing something else? Sometimes change is required to get where you want to go.

Managing your time is a skill that takes practice. Evaluating your habits and making meaningful changes can help you make the most of your day and ultimately your life.

3 Ways To Fight Brain Fog

Do you ever feel like you are walking around in a daze, or cannot keep your mind focused on the task at hand? Do you feel like you are not as mentally sharp as you used to be? If you answered yes, you are not alone. Many people suffer from what has come to be known as brain fog. Brain fog can describe a person who is experiencing decreased concentration, diminished memory, insufficient focus, or overall weakened mental clarity. It can be linked to a myriad of causes and affect important areas of your life, such as your job, schoolwork, or relationships. Although there are life changes that you can make to help decrease these symptoms, you might find it helpful to take supplements for mental clarity for a jump start to help the fog lift.

image credit

Sleep

It cannot be said enough how important getting adequate sleep is for your overall health. Proper sleep is a cornerstone for all the other healthy habits you strive to maintain and is critical for your brain to function at its best. it is easy to identify the physical struggle that comes from a lack of sleep, such as not having the energy to exercise, or having that overwhelming urge to take a nap in the middle of the workday. Other symptoms may not be as easy to recognize.

image credit

When you are overtired, you can experience a rise in depression and a decrease in good mental health. When your mind is so busy battling negative thoughts and feelings, you lose some of your mental bandwidth needed to deal with the life that is in front of you. Lack of sleep can also affect your blood sugar level. When your blood sugar level is too low, you can experience extreme lethargy that paralyzes you to the point of not even wanting to move, and your ability to think becomes fuzzy and unclear.

image credit

Eat Healthy

Proper nutrition is very important for your mental health. You would not purposely put bad gasoline in your car because it would negatively affect the car's performance. Treat your body the same way. Ensure that you are regularly consuming foods that contain vitamins and nutrients that are especially good for brain support, such as Omega-3 fatty acids. 

Train Your Brain

Being able to relax and de-stress is important for good mental health. Your life might be similar to that of many people who have full daily schedules and find it hard to keep up with a growing to-do list. Sometimes participating in a rather mindless activity, such as watching TV or scrolling through social media, is exactly what you need. Strive to also spend time regularly engaged in hobbies or projects that will tax your brain. You can try doing crossword or jigsaw puzzles, learning a new style of dance, or using your non-dominant hand to do things like brush your teeth.

You are likely bombarded with stressors and activities every day that compete for your attention and can clutter your mind. Put up your best defense against brain fog by sleeping well, choosing healthy foods and supplements, and engaging in mind sharpening activities.

4 Types of Loans

Sometimes, you just don't have the funds to pay for something you really need. Almost everyone is familiar with credit cards, auto loans and mortgages, but there are all kinds of loans out there that cater to specific situations or needs. These four loan types are only a few.

1. Personal Loans

A personal loan is very versatile. You don't need collateral to apply for one like you would for an auto loan, and you can use the loan for a wide range of expenses, from home renovations to an engagement ring.

This type of loan works best for someone with a good credit score because you're more likely to get approved and receive a lower interest rate. You can apply for a personal loan with most credit unions and banks, and with some online lenders.

2. Home Equity Loans

If you own a home, you can get a home equity loan by borrowing against the equity, or the amount of your home you own. If you've paid off a third of your mortgage, you can borrow up to a third of your home's value. People who opt for this type of loan are usually doing something to improve the quality of their home, like renovating the kitchen or building an addition.

Home equity loans tend to have lower interest rates than some other types, but like with a mortgage or auto loan, there is collateral involved. In this case, your house. Collateral can be a risk because if you default on your loan, you could lose your home.

3. Student Loans

These loans are increasingly common in the United States. Most college graduates can expect to carry roughly $40,000 in student loan debt, at least. Many people today include student loan payments in their budgets, along with more traditional bills like rent and utilities.

Since 2006, all federal student loans have fixed interest rates. Every student applying to colleges should fill out a FAFSA (Free Application for Student Aid). This application provides the government with the information needed to award federal loans and even grants based on the student's financial need. There are also private student loans available through institutions like banks.

4. Debt Consolidation Loans

A debt consolidation loan is a way to provide debt relief. This type of loan merges various bills into one debt that you can repay as one bill, to one lender. This type of loan is best for things like paying off credit cards, which typically have higher interest rates. If you decide to take out a debt consolidation loan, it's important to figure out the total you must pay for all the bills you want to merge and compare it against your budget. A lender can then help you figure out the best plan and interest rate to pay off your bill. Typically, the repayment period is about 3 to 5 years.

These are only some of the different loan types available. One of them might work for you, or another type all together might fit your needs better. It's important to do your research when considering a loan.

How To Prevent Accidents In Your Home

Since we spend most of our time at home, it stands to reason that we are prone to having an accident there. It’s simply a numbers game. From slips and falls to burns to just about any other injury you can imagine, our home is where it is most likely to happen.

As they say, prevention is the best medicine, so rather than just have a first aid kit ready for an injury, it’s best to try to avoid the accident to begin with. It’s easier said than done, of course, but with the right idea you can make your house an injury free zone.

In this article, I will give you several ideas on just how to keep your home safe from injury.

image credit

1 - Keep a safe pool

Homes with pools are especially prone to injuries and they can be quite serious. If you have a pool then you need to pay particular attention to safety and have some protocols in place to make sure everybody knows how to stay protected.

The first line of defense is to have a fence around the pool that has a lock on the gate. This way kids or dogs can’t wander in and get into trouble by falling into a pool. You can research more at pool safety melbourne for details about pool fencing options and to better understand what safety features might be necessary for your home. This is actually required in some municipalities if you plan to have a pool anyway.

It’s a good idea to have a camera in the pool area so you can monitor what is happening there so there are no surprises. A home automation system will have motion detecting cameras that turn on when something comes into frame. Then you’re alerted on your device so you can watch remotely.

Then, have a non-slip surface on the deck area around the pool so there are no slip and falls that could be really bad. Also, make sure that you have signs for no diving and other types of rough activity that can result in an injury.

2 - Have fire extinguishers

It is a good idea to have several fire extinguishers around the house. Fires are very common and not just in the kitchen. Of course, it makes sense to have one within reach in the kitchen in case of a grease fire. But, you should also have one in the laundry room where fires can happen from lint build up in the dryer exhaust.

In fact, make sure that you are cleaning out your dryer exhaust occasionally so it is less likely to happen.

Then, keep some others scattered around as you never know where a fire can break out in the house. If you have a barbecue area in your garden, then this is another location that should definitely have a fire extinguisher.

image credit

3 - Keep appliances maintained

Some appliances like the dryer being dirty with lint as was already mentioned can be quite dangerous if they are not maintained. Especially appliances that get hot like a water boiler or heater.

If your water heater is overheating, then this could spell danger in two ways. One is that it can send scalding hot water to your fixtures that can burn you. And, young children are susceptible to burns from hot water with their sensitive skin.

Secondly, they can explode or cause fires if they overheat. Sometimes it’s the electrical work that is old on these older water heaters that can cause fires, as well.

Make sure that you are having your appliances inspected and serviced on time so that way at the first sign of danger, you can have it fixed or replaced. If you have old appliances then this is a good time to replace them with something more efficient and even safer.

3 Benefits of Owning a Horse

Are you searching for a new hobby that will occupy your time and provide joy? Owning a horse is an extraordinarily fulfilling way to spend your time. Every day is an adventure with these beautiful animals. The gratification of training them and seeing their improvement in different areas is one of the best feelings in the world. Here are three ways owning a horse can enhance your quality of life.

image credit

1. Better Physical Health

Are you looking for a way to tone your body and get more exercise? Your core and back muscles are constantly engaged while riding horseback. Your arm and leg muscles are also being activated, so you get a full-body workout each time you ride.

Along with building muscle, you can improve your overall physical skill. Galloping and using horse jump equipment during training helps to improve your balance and coordination. These are just a handful of the numerous benefits to your physical strength, stamina and endurance.

image credit

2. Increased Accountability

Horses require a lot of attention and care which instills accountability in their owners. People who own horses tend to be more responsible individuals. Various challenges are sure to arise when you own a horse, be they behavioral or health-related. To find a solution, you need to be willing to use critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Good owners hold themselves accountable to provide proper care.

You can apply these skills to other parts of your life. Whether it is becoming a reliable, dedicated worker at your job or keeping everything together at home. You become accountable because you care about the well-being of your horses.

3. Improved Mental Health

Doctors attest that spending time outdoors and getting plenty of fresh air has a positive impact on the mind. This can be a great way to get the stresses of the day out and use your time in a healthy way. Training, riding and taking care of a horse can all help build self-confidence, too. Horses also make excellent companion animals because they are very intuitive creatures, so spending time with them can be therapeutic and beneficial for cognitive dexterity in general.

image credit

While horse ownership is a tremendous responsibility, it can also be incredibly rewarding. The challenges involved are outweighed by the wonderful memories that are made during the time spent together daily. Horses are intelligent beings, and the companionship they offer can provide joy in your life. Apart from the tangible benefits you receive, the bond you develop together over time is priceless.