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  • Boost Your Metabolism with these 12 Foods

    Boost Your Metabolism with these 12 Foods

    I could never understand the phrase “you are what you eat”. It isn’t until you are looking at 40 that you really can grasp the nature and relationship of nutrition and health. By the time you reach 30, you’re finally getting your house in order. At this point, you probably have a career path, a disposable income, a comfortable home and a stylish wardrobe. It seems like you’re at the height of your powers, and things are really going your way. Then, quite suddenly, it happens.

    You notice that the winter weight doesn’t come off as easily in the springtime. That your pants are a little snugger. That a few drinks on a Friday night can ruin most of your Saturday. Metabolism is responsible for how the body converts what you eat and drink into energy, therefore a healthy metabolism is necessary for weight loss. Although the speed of your metabolism is partially determined by your genetics, certain foods have been shown to naturally speed it up.

    Instead of envying 20-somethings for their ability to seemingly keep weight off with zero effort, follow these tips to help speed up your metabolism.

    Grapefruit

    Grapefruit can reduce insulin levels. Lower insulin levels after eating can help your body process food more efficiently. With less insulin, you burn more calories and store less energy as fat.

    Salmon and Tuna

    High levels of leptin are associated with slower metabolisms and weight gain. Eating fish is a good way to lower leptin levels. The omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon and tuna cut leptin levels and help your body process foods more effectively. Omega-3 fatty acids are also found in anchovies, sardines, mackerel, and flax seed oil.

    Tuna, along with salmon, mackerel, herring, and sardines, contains omega-3 fatty acids, which help stimulate the production of  hormones that regulate metabolism and appetite.

    Eggs

    Eggs are no longer just an impeccable source of protein. In fact they are quite the metabolic booster and one of the best ones at that. Because they are so protein dense, this will help you build more muscle mass which is great for speeding up your metabolism: the more muscle mass, the faster the metabolism.

    This is especially helpful if genetics let you down and you don’t naturally have the metabolism of your dreams. Some would call this an egg-cellent way to improve your digestive powers, but don’t scramble your brains over that.

    Black Coffee

    The shot of caffeine you get from coffee increases energy and concentration. If consumed in moderation, coffee can cause a short-term boost in your metabolic rate. This common brew allows for a brief spike in your metabolism after drinking it. Okay, with this you HAVE to only sip small amounts of coffee. Consuming too much coffee can be detrimental to your adrenal glands and cancels any effort at improving your metabolism.

    But at two cups a day, (400 mg of caffeine) it is a great metabolism booster. Though the effects of black coffee aren’t permanent, they can be sustained by drinking on a daily basis.

    Machia

    Yup, that’s just a fancy word for green tea. It not only packs a bit of caffeine, which speeds up your heart rate and thus your metabolism, but it also has norepinephrine-stimulating EGCG, a nutrient that helps boost your metabolic rate.

    Avocado

    Avocado is rich in essential fatty acids, monounsaturated fats, B vitamins, and antioxidants that are known to keep metabolism working and your inflammation in check. Avocado is also abundant in fiber, which helps you to burn even more calories.

    Spinach

    A major deliverer of iron, magnesium, vitamin C and potassium, spinach is perfect for muscle repair. It also can prevent free-radicals (oxidation crashes and dangerous fluctuations in your body which have the potential to cause cancers) and keep your metabolism at a healthy and consistent level.

    Because your muscles are repaired, you retain your muscle mass, which keeps that metabolism in a safe and high place. So take a page out of Popeye’s book and gulp down on these leafy greens by themselves or in smoothies, salads and stir fry’s.

    Celery

    Celery might not seem like it has any superpowers, but it’s blandness can be beneficial. It doesn’t have much taste on its own, but chomping on the super low-calorie food stimulates digestion, keeps your body hydrated, and has plenty of fat-burning fiber- all of which amp up your metabolism.

    Strawberries

    A great source of anthocyanins (antioxidants of the totally awesome variety) which prevent fat cells from growing while simultaneously causing them to release adiponectin- a chemical that reduces inflammation, blood sugar, and reverses your body’s resistance to insulin.

    They also reduce your digestive system’s ability to absorb some starches and fats. This berry is easy to work into your diet at any meal, and they are approved by picky eaters worldwide; so next time you have a fruit fix, think back to your humble friend the strawberry. Consider your metabolism boosted.

    Carrots

    These orange veggies are high in fiber, and fiber forces the body to work harder during digestion, burning more calories in the process. Herb-Roasted Zucchini and Carrots and Balsamic Roasted Carrots are tasty additions to any weight loss menu.

    Asparagus

    Asparagus is known as a negative calorie food since it requires more calories to chew and digest it than it contains. It’s also loaded in nutrients and tastes great. Eat them alone as a snack, chopped up in a salad or asparagus makes an amazing side next to some lean meat.

    Apples

    Like grapefruit, this low-calorie snack is high in fiber, which your body must burn calories to break down. Plus, since apples help you stay full for longer, you’ll eat less.

    The Final Thought

    The best part is all of these foods are easy to eat and come by, also cheap. You can effortlessly eat all 12 in one day in 3 cheap and delicious meals. I’m looking forward to salmon and asparagus for dinner already.

  • Got the Jitters? It Could be Your Beverage of Choice

    Got the Jitters? It Could be Your Beverage of Choice

    Coffee is a magical brewed potion of pure ambition. It’s natural and beneficial effects on the body are endless. Most types contain caffeine, a substance that may boost your mood, metabolism and mental and physical performance. But what if you have too much? Jitters, shakes and anxiety can all come flooding in. It’s the caffeine – it is a drug, and you need to know how much you are getting and what it will do to you.

    Research has shown that your genes have a major influence on your tolerance to it. Some can consume much more caffeine than others without experiencing negative effects. What’s more, individuals who aren’t used to caffeine may experience symptoms after consuming what is typically considered a moderate dose. Coffee is “the most commonly used psychoactive drug,” and drinking more than 5 cups a day can have you hearing things.

    Coffee is basically the modern version of the Holy Grail. This life-restoring elixir makes red-eye flights bearable, sleepless nights melt away, and honestly, goes great with dessert. So it’s understandable, then, that you might drink a little too much from time to time. (It tastes so good! And I’m so tired!) But combine all those grande lattes with other foods that contain caffeine, like dark chocolate, and you could wind up with a serious case of the jitters. Lets talk about the effects of too much coffee and caffeine, and the benefits of the right amount.

    The Damages of Too Much Caffeine

    It can damage your liver, according to studies by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, while moderate amounts of coffee can help the liver to detoxify the body, too much can have to opposite effect and hinder your liver’s function. This is especially true if you’re taking high doses of common over-the-counter pain medication. It can make you irrational and irritable.The shallow breathing caused by too much caffeine can stymie oxygen’s flow to the brain, which in turn harms the decision making process. As well as heartburn/reflux. Caffeine has been shown to relax the esophagus, contributing to gastroesophageal reflux. This can either cause or exacerbate heartburn in susceptible individuals.

    You can start to notice rambling thought and speech. Along with many of your other senses, speech and thought speed up in response to the stimulant effect of caffeine. While this can be very useful for concentration, too much can cause confusion and stuttering. Then there are the heart palpitations. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system. It speeds up the heart rate and can cause the heart to flutter or palpitate. Even hallucinations,  they are believed to occur when an overdose of caffeine causes the body to become stressed. This is a result of high adrenaline levels.

    It can take up to nine and a half hours for caffeine levels in your bloodstream to even decrease by half. But just because you accidentally went overboard doesn’t mean you’re totally screwed. First, start drinking water. Staying hydrated can ease some of the symptoms caused by an overdose and help the body efficiently eliminate it. Mild exercise to help your body metabolize the caffeine faster. Eating foods with potassium or magnesium (like bananas) is also helpful. Caffeine wipes out your body’s potassium and magnesium, which can cause the tremors and jitters of caffeine overdose

    Here is Why You Want the Right Amount of Coffee and Caffeine Each Day

    A cup of coffee in the morning may provide more than just an energy boost.The potential health benefits associated with drinking coffee include protecting against type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, liver disease, liver cancer, and promoting a healthy heart.

    For Starters, two cups of coffee can cut post-workout muscle pain by up to 48%. A cup of brewed coffee represents a contribution of up to 1.8 grams of fiber of the recommended intake of 20-38 grams. Also studies show, Those who consumed 6 or more cups per day had a 22% lower risk of diabetes. And there is considerable evidence that caffeine may protect against Alzheimer’s disease. Get me some of that delicious black gold now!

    Worried about Parkinson’s? Researchers in the U.S. carried out a study that assessed the link between coffee consumption and Parkinson’s disease risk.The study concluded that higher coffee and caffeine intake is associated with a significantly lower incidence of Parkinson’s disease. In addition, caffeine in coffee may help control movement in people suffering from Parkinson’s.

    Then there is cancer. The worst enemy of mankind. Did you know coffee consumption lowers the risk of liver cancer by about 40%. In addition, some of the results suggest that if you drink three cups a day, the risks are reduced by more than 50%.7? And in another recent study appearing in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute looked at the coffee-drinking habits of more than 447,000 people over 10 years. The researchers found that those who drank four or more cups of caffeinated coffee each day had a 20 percent lower risk of developing melanoma than people who drank decaffeinated coffee or no coffee.

    The Final Thought

    Coffee is great, It is great for you. Listen to your body and enjoy. I wish all things in life could be this simple, but at least we have coffee.

  • Make Travel Easier With the Best Wheelchair Vans

    Make Travel Easier With the Best Wheelchair Vans

    A wheelchair-accessible van is a vehicle that has been modified to increase the interior size of the vehicle and is equipped with a means of wheelchair entry, such as a wheelchair ramp or powered lift, to allow access. There are many different options and possibilities with handicap accessible vehicles; the most common option is a wheelchair accessible minivan.

    This type of van is modified to allow a wheelchair van or scooter user to drive their mobility equipment directly into the handicap accessible vehicle with no assistance. Featuring a 10-11″ dropped floor for easy entry and exist (with headroom up to 58″!) and removable front seats that allow the user to ride safely in the front passenger area or even drive from their wheelchair.

    Finding the Right Wheelchair Van

    To get started with your hunt for the right wheelchair van, create a list of features you want and need, so you can accurately access the cost differences. Take into consideration how you’re going to transport the whole family. Consider the adaptive equipment that needs to be transported. Will it change over time? What is the age of the user and caregivers? Having a budget in mind is very important.

    Check with a Mobility Consultant to obtain all information including 10-year financing options and rebates available. They can also help explain features and benefits, and guide you through the wheelchair van conversion buying process. Rent and try before you buy.  Buy for today, and tomorrow! It’s a big investment that should last you many years.  Now that we have that checklist done, let’s take a look at the best wheelchair vans on the market.

    Chrysler Town & Country

    The Chrysler Town & Country is a storied minivan, known as much for its luxurious appointments as for its practical versatility. Chrysler (Town & Country) was one of the first automobile manufacturers to make minivans, and they instantly caught on with the American consumer. Naturally, handicapped vehicle manufacturers quickly made accessible modifications to these minivans that continue to be popular today.

    There are 8 different conversions available for the Chrysler Town & Country. Braun CompanionVan, CompanionVan Plus, CompanionVan Plus XT, Braun Power, Power XT, and Power Infloor, VMI Northstar and VMI Summit.  Chrysler Town & Country conversion is discrete: from the outside, it doesn’t even appear to be an accessible vehicle! It earns points for style as well as functionality, especially since it’s equipped with a 30” or 34” ramp that can be either automatic or spring-assisted according to your preference. This model is available in an ADA-compliant configuration with optional driver or passenger transfer seating.

    Dodge Caravan

    Another classic in the world of Wheelchair Vans. The Dodge Grand Caravan minivan remains one of the best mobility ramp vans in America. By sliding out of a space between the floor, the  mobility ramp maximizes space inside the accessible vehicle. There are so many benefits of an in-floor wheelchair ramp, it is easily understood why its so popular.

    The Dodge  Caravans feature a power in-floor ramp and power door. Many customers prefer the rugged look of the Dodge Grand Caravan over more urban styled handicap van conversions.

    Ford Minivans

    Minivans designed by Ford are known for their full-size and compact features. These include: a raised roof, lowered floor, and power doors specifically tailored for the driver. Maybe more importantly, they have a wide variety of price ranges to fit any customer’s budget. The van also has retractable shoulder belts, a reverse sensing system, high quality seating, and a three-year warranty.

    Whether you’re looking for comfort, accessibility, luxury, or performance, the vehicles mentioned above will satisfy your every need. Make sure to determine your budget and major concerns before making a decision, in order to ensure you’re purchasing the right vehicle for you.

    Honda Odyssey Wheelchair Van

    The Honda Odyssey handicap van is very popular and for good reason. It has a long history of performance. This model features in-floor and folding ramps, and has side and rear entry for easy access. The Honda Odyssey also has superior safety features, such as electronic brake distribution and anti-lock brakes. These features show Honda has one of the top minivans on the road. Conversions of the Honda Odyssey include the Braun, and VMI wheelchairs.

    The Honda wheelchair van comes available as a side-entry or rear-entry. A rear-entry vehicle’s low-angle ramp makes it easy to access the interior through the rear door. The unique design of this mobility upgrade makes it possible to use standard parking spaces when accessible parking is unavailable. Depending on the number of passengers you need to accommodate, a variety of seating options can be installed in your Honda Odyssey wheelchair van. Safety always comes first with this brand. Their Honda wheelchair vans are built on a state-of-the-art assembly line, ensuring consistent quality you can rely on day in and day out.

  • Top ATVs, Your Next Toy Could Be a Winter Workhorse

    Top ATVs, Your Next Toy Could Be a Winter Workhorse

    ATVs are multi-purpose vehicles that can be used for towing large loads or tearing through snow, dirt, and dunes. ATVs have helped revolutionize hunting by making difficult locations easier to access and exit. They have become a well sought-out resource for hunters. Comfort, handling, and size all play a role in choosing the right ATV for you. After all, you don’t want to arrive completely exhausted from a rough ride to your hunting location.

    Are you in the market for a new 4×4 ATV? Whether you’re looking to buy or finance your first or your fifth, buying a new ATV is something that takes a lot of thought and research. There’s a lot to consider when buying an ATV. It is easy to get overwhelmed with all the information that is out there. It is important to figure out what your priorities are. Ask yourself what you will be using the ATV for.

    Almost 230,000 ATVs are sold within North America every year, and 4×4 ATVs, also called “quads,” are by far the most popular. This means that there are tons of different models and brands to choose from. So how do you narrow it down? Start with the brand. The top ATV brands are familiar names within the traditional motorcycle industry. These brands don’t mess around and have a serious passion for anything with an engine and a sense of adrenaline.

    Honda Recon 250

    This manual shift ATV continues to be a favorite among riders and is a similar platform to the Honda TRX250 with a utility body including racks and floor boards. The rugged features, stylish looks, and get-it-done attitude along with its 229 cc OHV engine are truly amazing. Honda has a strong stake in the motorcycle industry and an even more firm grasp over the ATV sector.

    They’ve really created some great options that can be trusted, and also don’t hurt the wallet as much as some other brands. And you don’t even have to be an ATV person to recognize the 2018 Honda Recon 250 looks like one heck of a ride. Honda’s got a heart, and they’re killing this industry.

    Polaris Sportsman 570 EPS ATV

    This ATV probably has one of the best engines in the entire lineup of Polaris; the 570cc has been used in several other model line-ups including their ATV, Ace, Ranger and RZR. The Sportsman is compact, powerful, and offers a serious amount of power for the tough trails and hills. This is the first time one of their ATV’s is so powerful, though in a small package with a great starting price. This model also comes in the “touring 2-seat” configurations.

    When motorcycle lovers hear this name, what also comes to mind is “Indian.” We have tons of Indian motorcycle lovers out there, and we can thank Polaris for giving Indian that extra shot they needed. But Polaris isn’t just known for the stylized Indian motorcycles. They’re a personal crowd favorite when it comes to anything side-by-side vehicle and off-road related, and that’s for a good reason.

    Take a look at the Polaris Sportsman 570, and I dare you to tell me that it doesn’t have “fun” written all over it. It’s a comfortable ride for all ages, and those tires are ready to eat up all the mud you throw its way.

     Yamaha YFZ450R

    The high performance of this ATV combined with its race-ready engine makes it fly past the competition. Often in the First, Second or Third place podium standings with popular off road racing circuits like GNCC and others, this machine is built to win with its Advanced Frame, Fuel Injection and Assist-and-Slipper clutch.

    Note: ATVs are recommended only for use by those age 16 years and older. YAMAHA recommends an approved training course.

    Here’s another crowd favorite in the motorcycle industry. And if you’re not a personal lover of the brand, you can at least admit they do a damn good job of providing affordable bike options. Let’s be honest, not everyone can afford the price associated with a Harley, and Yamaha is always there in the wings trying to urge you over to try one of their rides.

    But when it comes to their ATVs, they’re a top name in the industry and aren’t waiting in the shadows for anyone. Yamaha is one of the most reliable brands, all without expecting the soul of your firstborn son as comparative payment. Have you seen the YFZ 450R? It’s a more matte-looking option than a lot of its shiny competitors, and it’s got an engine that just won’t quit.

  • Tiny CPAP Machines that You Can Travel With

    Tiny CPAP Machines that You Can Travel With

    Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder in which an individual’s breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. Symptoms include daytime sleepiness, loud snoring, and restless sleep.The involuntary pause in breathing can result either from a blocked airway or a signaling problem in the brain.

    There is a lot of overlap between problems with sleep and problems with mood. Depression, in particular, has a strong association with sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea may have some surprising signs and symptoms of the condition. Sleep apnea can have profound effects on your ability to think clearly during the day. This is sometimes called “brain fog.” The repeated episodes of disrupted breathing that occur at night fragment sleep. Even diabetes and impotence can be caused or exacerbated by sleep apnea.

    After being diagnosed with sleep apnea, there’s a chance that your doctor may give you a CPAP machine as a form of treatment. It’s a little more unusual than, say, popping a pill, so understanding how it works may answer any questions that you might have and/or ease any concerns. CPAP stands for “continuous positive airway pressure”.

    The machines help people with sleep apnea breathe more easily and regularly every night while they are sleeping. A CPAP machine increases the air pressure in your throat to prevent your airway from collapsing when you inhale. However, being hooked up to a large breathing machine can cause problems for those that like to travel. Lets talk about some of the best tiny CPAP machines you can travel with.

    AirMini

    ResMed has recently released their own travel tiny CPAP called the AirMini, and it certainly lives up to its name. The AirMini is perfect for the frequent traveler. It’s very light and compact, and provides the same therapy options as a regular CPAP. It weighs 0.66lbs (300 grams), 30 decibels,  and only 5.4 x 3.3 x 2.0 inches. Highly portable. It has all 3 therapy modes built in – CPAP, AUTO, AUTO For Her (4-20CMH20 range of pressures). Air Mini has all the comfort features you are used to in a CPAP – EPR, RAMP, Response. Works specifically with a P10, N20 and F20 because of the new ActiveAir vent and built in HME. AirMini has built in Bluetooth and works with the AirMini APP (available on the APP store and Google Play).

    One secret to the AirMini’s compact design is its minimalist user interface on the machine, which is effectively only two buttons. One of these inputs is the Power button, while the other is the Bluetooth button, which connects the AirMini to your mobile device via the AirMini app. This innovative app turns a Bluetooth-equipped phone or tablet into the CPAP machine’s control panel, allowing users to select settings and customize their therapy experience. The AirMini app also allows patients to track their therapy, including both short and long-term results.

    The AirMini Travel tiny CPAP comes ready for the road with several travel-friendly accessories available. The standard issue travel pouch and exterior AC power supply are supplemented by the OPTIONAL accessory AirMini Travel Bag, AirMini Hard Case and an AirMini Mount System. ResMed is also continuing to develop accessories for the AirMini, including a DC converter and external battery pack.

    Philips DreamStation Go

    The DreamStation Go tiny CPAP from Philips Respironics gives travelers a real-world solution to portable CPAP therapy. Weighing in at a mere 1.86 pounds, the DreamStation Go Travel CPAP delivers the therapeutic benefits of a full-sized CPAP machine but in a compact, easy-to-transport package. And the discreet DreamStation Go can power cordless CPAP therapy thanks to its rechargeable lithium-ion battery.

    So whether you’re the jet-setting business type who’s constantly on the road, or an outdoor enthusiast looking for a reliable sleep therapy option while roaming off the grid, the DreamStation Go tiny CPAP is the ideal choice for sleep apnea patients on the go.

    The DreamStation Go also retains many of the advanced features found on its larger, full-sized siblings, including adjustable ramp mode and exhalation pressure relief. Ramp mode lowers pressure at the start of therapy before gradually increasing to the prescribed pressure setting. This gentler beginning pressure helps patients ease their way into sleep, with the ramp time adjustable in five-minute increments between 0 and 45 minutes.

    Tech-savvy features include standard Bluetooth, with the DreamStation Go, is fully compatible with Philips Respironics’ DreamMapper app. Billed as a “patient self-management tool,” the DreamMapper app makes it easy to track therapy, allowing users to sync data from multiple devices on a unified dashboard visible on your phone or tablet.

    So no need to worry about tracking compliance while out on the road, because the DreamMapper can combine therapy data from both the DreamStation Go and your full-sized DreamStation or System One CPAP machine at home.

    Z1 Auto

    The Z1 Auto, HDM’s latest travel CPAP design. Measuring just 6.5 inches long and weighing less than a pound, it’s the least obtrusive and most travel friendly device on the market. Boasting comfort features like Z-Breathe exhalation, automatic altitude adjustment, leak compensation, and an overhauled ramp design, the Z1 offers you effective therapy in an ergonomic package.

    The Z1 Auto Travel CPAP Machine also comes with an optional integrated battery and a built-in Bluetooth data management system that allows you to monitor your therapy statistics and information on your iPhone or iPad. The Z1 Auto Travel tiny CPAP Machine is one of the few automatic travel devices available to sleep apnea therapy patients, and is the ideal travel companion for anybody who prefers an automatic CPAP device.

    At just 26 dBA, the Z1 Auto is one of the quietest travel Ttny CPAP machines available. Travel machines are often noisier than traditional devices — they’re smaller and block noise less effectively — but the Z1 Auto’s unique structure helps to block noise. The machine is quieter than a typical ceiling fan and won’t be loud enough to disturb you or your bed partner.

    HDM’s Z1 Auto is built for the traveler. It weighs just ten ounces, and at 6.48 inches long x 3 inches wide x 2.02 inches high, it’s small enough to fit in almost any backpack or suitcase. Comparable in size to an iPod, the Z1 won’t take up much room on your nightstand or in a tent.

  • Which Dog Breed is Right for Your Family

    Which Dog Breed is Right for Your Family

    The history and evolution of the magical bond between man and dog is truly a divine miracle of unfathomable symbiotic benefit. A guardian whose senses were keener than those of a genius detective, a protector with speed and endurance beyond that of an Olympian, and a friend whose courage rivaled the bravest warrior? It all tributes back to one ancient wolf and his evolved lack of fear, who emerged among the monsters of the forest to a superhero sidekick. But this relationship was just forming, and it doesn’t stop at this first miracle.

    As time passes, our wolves evolved with our society, adapting much more rapidly with elegant design and functionality. Through genetic targeting and hybrid breeding, man and dog have become an inseparable cosmic pair unmatched anywhere in the known universe.  Right about now you are starting to think; my family needs a dog, my children need a dog and I need a dog. But which breed is right for you and yours? While all dogs make for best friends, some are, um, more lovably clueless than others. But when it comes to working intelligence (i.e. following commands), certain types stand out from the pack.

    In this article, I’m going to talk about five specially evolved breeds of amazing dogs. While all breeds are a magnificent gift to man, these five are beyond special. While we don’t utilize our dogs like we once did for predator alerting and hunting in the past, these five dog breeds bring something more.

    The Golden Retriever

    The Golden Retriever is the classic family companion. They are obedient, playful, intelligent, well-mannered, great with kids, and kindly to strangers. Highly reliable bird dogs, their keen sense of smell and desire to work alongside people makes them sought-after narcotics sniffers. Golden Retrievers need people and are best suited for large, active families. Trainability is through the roof with a golden retriever, as they can be taught to accomplish almost anything that can be done without an opposable appendage.

    Golden Retrievers are a breeze to train. They are people-pleasers and will do anything for a bit of praise and some food. This makes them an excellent choice for first-time dog owners. Goldens should always be treated with a gentle hand, as they are sensitive creatures who don’t respond well to harsh tones and discipline.

    Their trainability has made them a number once choice for service and therapy dogs, and in recent years they have been a favorite choice of police forces, who utilize them as drug and bomb sniffers and in search and rescue teams. The Golden Retriever’s kindly expression says it all. This is one of the finest family dogs in the world; cheerful, demonstrative, trustworthy with everyone, and forgiving of any mistakes made by inexperienced owners.

    The Border Collie

    The valedictorians of the dog world, these herders took a prominent spot in our rankings. Most can learn a new command in under five seconds and follow it at least 95% of the time. Astounding.

    The Border Collie dog breed was developed to gather and control sheep in the hilly border country between Scotland and England. He is known for his intense stare, or “eye,” with which he controls his flock. He’s a dog with unlimited energy, stamina, and working drive, all of which make him a premier herding dog breed.  He’s still used today to herd sheep on farms and ranches around the world. The highly trainable and intelligent Border Collie also excels in various canine sports, including obedience, flyball, agility, tracking and flying disc competitions.

    Border collies are an extremely energetic dog breed and must have the opportunity to get lots of exercise. They love to run. A bright, clever breed, the border collie is best suited for country living. If confined without activity, this breed will quickly become unhappy and destructive. Because of their herding instincts, they are protective of their family and territory and make excellent watchdogs. They will look out for the family kids. Although they get along well with children and other pets they are raised with, they can be reserved and sometimes snappish with strangers, nipping at the heels the same way they would nip at sheep if herding.

    German Shepherd

    German Shepherds happily serve as police dogs, seeing eye dogs, medical assistance dogs and therapy dogs, so it’s no surprise that consistent obedience comes standard with this breed. The German Shepherd Dog is perhaps best known as the strong, courageous and obedient guide dog breeds for the disabled and service dog of police K-9 and search-and-rescue units, valued for its tenacity, intelligence, loyalty and focus. GSDs are often sought as guard dogs and protectors.

    German Shepherds can be trained to do almost any task set before them. They are smart, bold, alert, and single-minded when necessary and eager to please their people. They are powerful but still agile. While highly trainable, they should be socialized and trained young in life. This requires a firm, consistent and kind handler.

    German Shepherds can be as energetic as they are large, although they should be of even disposition and unflappable, with a restrained, composed and confident temperament. They should be patient, attentive, faithful and determined. They can be bold but should not be unnecessarily aggressive. They do not require an enormous amount of daily exercise, but they certainly are not the ideal breed for apartment dwellers or people who live alone and work long hours. They tend to bond well with children and enjoy participating in family activities like hiking, swimming, picnicking, running and the like.

    Pembroke Welsh Corgi

    If they’re good enough for royalty, they’re certainly bright enough for the rest of us. Unlike their Cardigan Welsh Corgi cousins, Pembrokes lack long tails, but they make up for it with a smart, even-keeled personality. Spirited and athletic, steady and dependable, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a true “big dog on short legs.”

    Herding, obedience, agility, or chasing balls (with surprising speed) are enjoyable outlets for his enthusiasm and desire to work. Corgis are the smart dog breeds who need something to do.He is polite with guests, reserved with strangers, and makes an alert watchdog. Most Pembroke Welsh Corgis are fine with other family pets. But they’re often territorial with strange dogs and cats – as a working farm dog, one of his responsibilities was to chase strays away from his own farm. Corgis are wonderful with livestock, including horses.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks

    This handsome dog breed was created in Africa to be a versatile hunter and home guardian. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an all-purpose “Renaissance hound” dog breed whose hallmark is the ridge, or stripe of backward-growing hair, on his back. Though the breed became famous in its native Africa for its skill at tracking and baying, today Ridgebacks are cherished family dogs whose owners must be prepared to deal with their independence and strong prey drive.

    Ridgebacks are fast and powerful athletes who can weigh between 70 and 85 pounds, and oftentimes more. They come in only one color , wheaten, which spans every shade seen in a wheat field, from pale flaxen to the burnished red of a maturing crop. Ridgebacks also have two nose colors; black and the less commonly seen brown.

    Rhodesian ridgebacks are extremely tolerant dogs and excellent companions. Ridgebacks are gregarious animals, enjoying the company of other dogs; but families should be cautious about having several male dogs in one household, because this can lead to dominance struggles. These dogs can be good with cats if brought up with them.

  • Be Like Kramer, Get Your Own Deli Meat Slicer

    Be Like Kramer, Get Your Own Deli Meat Slicer

    All day I dream of fresh deli meats. The sweet tavern hams, the pastrami, prosciutto, and even fresh bologna. Just the idea of freshly sliced meats can make my mouth water. Then you remember the hours of waiting in line at the deli, or buying pre-packaged containers of meat loaded with salt and preservatives. There is an another option for fresh sliced cheeses, fruits, vegetables, and meats, however.

    Be like Kramer and get your own deli meat slicer! Whether you’re a professional chef, caterer, or home cook, a meat slicer is an essential kitchen tool for the thinnest cuts of meat. A deli meat slicer allows you to slice meat and other food items quickly, efficiently, and with the greatest of precision. But with so many options on the market, shopping for a deli meat slicer can be overwhelming.

    In this best of all times to be alive, owning your own deli meat slicer is an achievable reality.  They’re very reasonably priced – your local home improvement stores has them available for less than a few hundred dollars. Different models of deli meat slicers can handle various types of loads, from slicing through lean turkey breast to dense blocks of cheese. This makes getting the right deli meat slicer very important.

    What to Consider When Purchasing a Deli Meat Slicer

    Many factors come into play when making your purchase. Things like horsepower, blade size, or whether the meat slicer is driven by belts or gears. Then you will need to decide whether you want a manual or automatic slicer. Automatic slicers are safer and provide for better multi-tasking. However most users will prefer manual slicing. Before you purchase your deli meat slicer, try to take it for a short test drive. From small skin mole removal to plates of freshly sliced gourmet cheese, a deli meat slicer adds a tremendous value to your kitchen.

    Entry Level Slicers are best suited for operations where the slicer would be used for an hour or two at most per day. While designed for simple, safe operation, they are not recommended for slicing cheese, and do not offer as many safety or convenience features as higher-end models. They are not meant for cutting raw or frozen meat or cheese.

    Mid-Tier Slicers generally have larger blades, a bit more horsepower, and can withstand more constant use than an entry-level model. Some models can handle occasional slicing of cheese, but are primarily intended for a few hours of vegetable or deli meat slicing per day. They usually offer a few more safety and convenience features than an entry-level model too.

    Premium Slicers represent the top-of-the-line offerings from each manufacturer. Most are designed for heavy duty, constant use, and can slice cheese as well. These models offer design features that enhance the smoothness of operation, slice precision and safe operation. These deli meat slicers are the top of the line slicers designed for use at big restaurants. They are the type of slicers found in butcher shops and other meat markets because they can handle just about anything.

    Blade Size and Horsepower

    Mid tier and premium slicers usually have larger cutting blades (12″-14″) for all-around use, whereas entry level models often use smaller cutting blades (9″ and 10″) for lighter use. Industry-wide, a 12″ cutting blade is the most common size. When it comes to picking the size of your blade, you have to consider the volume of the food that you will be slicing with the blades. For smaller restaurants, your blade size should be 8 or 9. If you will be slicing larger volumes of food, your blade size can be anywhere between 9 and 14.

    Anyone that has used a meat slicer knows how important the blades are. If you intend to buy a slicer, you should make sure that the slicer comes with stainless steel blades because stainless steel blades do not rust and can cut through almost anything. You should also make sure the slicer has a built-in sharpener for the blades to keep them razor sharp.

    As for horsepower the more you use it the more horsepower you will want. Calm down Tim the Tool Man, be realistic in your HP needs. Generally, higher horsepower slicers are designed for more frequent use.

    Manual vs. Automatic?

    An automatic slicer, where an electric motor moves the product tray back and forth, is convenient when slicing large amounts of product because it can slice continuously without constant staff assistance. Automatic slicers can also be operated manually, so the main deciding factor is how much slicing you do. Large delis or supermarkets would see the most benefit from an automatic slicer. Automatic meat slicers are very fast, since the slicers are automatic, you don’t have to slice the meat by yourself.

    All you have to do is feed the meat into the machine and let it do the rest. Automatic slicers are turbo charged and can cut up to 60 slices per minute. As expected, these are the most expensive types of meat slicers available, and are only worth the price tag if your business involves a lot of meat slicing.

    What about belt driven or gear driven? Nearly all of the great slicers are belt driven. In theory, a slicer with a gear driven blade will be more durable, but in actual practice, if your gear-driven slicer does require a repair, it will cost a lot more than simply replacing a drive belt.

  • Snow Removal: Put Down the Shovel

    Snow Removal: Put Down the Shovel

    A snow blower is an indispensable piece of equipment when you’re stuck at the end of a long driveway during a tough winter. You can save time and your back with a snow blower that works with your terrain and average snowfall.

    A good snow blower will clear your driveway in about a quarter of the time it would take you to shovel it. The very best models can slice through 18 inches of snow and hurl it 40 feet or more, clearing a path as fast as you can push the machine along.

    There are so many different types of snow blowers on the market that it can be hard to know where to begin. How do you find the snow blower that has the right combination of design and power to keep your driveway clear during the winter? Let’s look at some of our favorite snow blowers.

    Troy-Bilt Gas Snow Thrower

    You may not use your snow thrower every day, but when you need it, you need it to work well and last for a long time. The all-new Troy-Bilt Gas Snow Thrower is a reliable machine that checks all of our boxes and then some, which is why it’s our best overall pick.

    The Squall features a 208cc 4-cycle overhead valve gas engine with a convenient push button electric start, which means you won’t have to waste time standing in the snow ripping a cord with your gloves on. Just click the button and get started. You can clear an impressive 21-inch-wide path with the Squall and cut through 13 inches of snow at a time.

    Toro Snowmaster 724 QXE

    The Toro Snowmaster 724 QXE is one of the most reliable snow blowers on the market. While its price point is great given its quality, it does have a few drawbacks compared to some of the other blowers on the list.

    Most notably, while it handles smooth surfaces like a pro, it struggles when it comes to gravel and other rough areas. While it is possible to move snow from rough areas with the Snowmaster 724, it is recommended to look at other options if you are going to be in that terrain frequently. The Toro Snowmaster shines on flat surfaces like parking lots, driveways and sidewalks. It is fast, throws snow far, and can handle 2-14 inches of snow.

    The Husqvarna ST 224

    Clearing a hill or a steep driveway in deep snow can be an inconvenient and dangerous prospect. To make your job a little easier, invest in a strong, self-propelled snow blower like the Husqvarna ST 224 Gas Snow Blower.

    The Husqvarna ST 224 is a 208cc two-stage gas engine-powered, electric start snow thrower with heated handles and LED headlights. The engine operates the auger as well as the wheels, doing the work for you on the way up or down hill. It features six different forward speeds for precise control as well as reverse, to prevent downhill skids. Additionally, the non-marking skids will protect your driveway. It is a quiet and efficient machine with a 24-inch-by-23-inch clearance.

    Craftsman 88173 24″ Snow Blower

    The Craftsman 88173 Snow Blower is a good all-around machine, perfect for clearing driveways and patios and for use on gravel, and we like it a lot. It is compact and simple to use, well-designed and efficient but does lack a couple of features that other models offer.

    The major factor in its favor is perhaps the price: you can find this model for under $700, which puts it a good way cheaper than some of its 24-inch rivals.

    Briggs and Stratton 1022ER

    The Briggs and Stratton 1022ER Single Stage Snow Thrower is a compact and efficient snow blower. This 208cc single stage gas-power snow blower works for most snow levels and is ideal for driveways. Not only can it easily clear an empty driveway, but the small size lets you fit into the tight spaces around cars. This snow blower has a push button electric starter and crank-based chute control system.

    This model also has a rubber-edged auger to keep the water and snow off and the whole machine moving. The quick-adjust deflector that lets you change your clearance from the handle bars, making it easy to control and use.

    The Final Thought

    Any snow blower is going to be a huge advantage in the winter. Tackling your driveway every morning is a nightmare this Florida boy can’t comprehend. Don’t get me wrong, shoveling is great exercise!  When the snow starts, you always intend to shovel your way out of each snowfall to stay fit.

    But after the first few snowstorms, intermittent back pain pays a visit, and it is time to give in to the calls of the snow blower. Investing in the right snow blower will save time, energy, and help you obtain peace of mind.

  • Small Business Outlook: Top POS Systems of 2019

    Small Business Outlook: Top POS Systems of 2019

    As a small business owner, you’re probably spending a lot of your time, effort, and attention on the process that leads up to the point when a customer makes a purchase. But what about that very moment? The exact point of sale?

    A POS is a point of sale system that handles all of the transactions you make throughout your business day. It is where your employee will physically run the payment from a customer for goods or services rendered by your company. The POS is both the hardware and the software that keeps the heart of your company pumping. But too many small businesses neglect this all-important aspect of their business health and wellness, and that leads to one thing: cardiac arrest.

    The heart of any business is its sales structure. After all, the best product, service, marketing team, and PR staff won’t do you an ounce of good if you aren’t making sales. Which is why finding the right POS system for your business is so important. Make sure you know everything there is to know about the best POS systems, their benefits for SMBs, and how to choose the right one for you.

    There are many different hardware components that you can choose for your POS. Some of them include:

    • Cash register
    • Barcode scanner
    • Receipt printer
    • Credit card reader
    • Register screen

    With literally hundreds of retail, small business, bar, and restaurant point-of-sale (POS) systems on the market, buying a new POS solution can become overwhelming rather quickly. Let’s look at the top 5 POS systems of 2019 for your small business.

    The Square POS System

    The first top POS system for small business is the Square POS system, in all of its different shapes and sizes. Square point of sale is a cloud-based POS solution for iOS, Android devices and square’s own point of sale hardware. This software allows you to manage customers, transactions, inventory, invoicing, and payments. It also has additional tools for managing customer loyalty, employees, marketing, and payroll.

    Square POS also offers chip, magstripe, and contactless card readers for accepting payment via debit, credit cards, Google pay, and Apple pay. Square offers a wide variety of iterations of their POS system, all of which will be remarkably intuitive and fairly priced.

    The Square Register is the most souped-up version of the point of sale software that Square offers. For a cool $999, the Register will allow your business to accept all types of payments, no additional iPad necessary. Plus, the Register comes with two interfaces—one for you and your employees, and the other for your customers—in order to make the checkout experience as smooth as possible.

    Shopify

    Whether the order is placed through in-store, online or from a mobile device, all the orders are automatically synced through Shopify. It is also easy to monitor cash register adjustment and staff changes.

    Shopify reports will let you easily track customers, payments, and sales made both online and in-store. Shopify comes with robust hardware compatibility and freedom to use with any computer, iPad or Mac. You can custom design each register to suit its counter space and layout.

    Netsuite

    Netsuite is the top POS system with mobile-ready technology enables you to deliver a superior in-store experience, satisfies omnichannel users and builds customer loyalty. It is an end-to-end unified system that provides real-time insights into customers, sales, inventory, financials, and more.

    This helps to grow sales as it empowers sales associates with tools and information to build stronger customer relationships. The cross-channel functionality options are also available which can get used according to your requirement.

    Bindo

    Bindo is cloud-based and was designed specifically to work with iPad, so it’s mobile, but it also comes with an iPad stand if you want to keep the system in one place. You get a barcode scanner, a cash drawer, credit card reader, as well as a receipt printer and it integrates with QuickBooks. A product database manages inventory for you. Bindo can also handle e-commerce and mobile payments.

    One of Bindo’s neatest features is the way it handles employee time-keeping, photographing your workers as they punch in and out. You get free, unlimited, 24-hour customer support, although only via e-mail and in-app chats, and a built-in loyalty program.

    Clover

    Clover is ideal for just about any type of business, but it’s especially suited to larger businesses with more complex needs. You can start with a basic package, then build onto it through Clover’s own API to achieve the exact system your business requires. Ultimately, it will do everything from the basics to scheduling employee hours and maintaining and overseeing your customer loyalty program.

    The Clover System offers multiple POS systems. Clover Mini, introduced in 2015, might be compact, but it manages every sort of payment, as does Clover Mobile for more on-the-go business types. Clover Station is a cash drawer system and offers multiple integrations. One drawback is that you’re limited to using only the merchant processing company that you purchase the product from.

  • Your Guide To Buying Clothes on a Budget

    Your Guide To Buying Clothes on a Budget

    One way or the other, you have to spend some amount of your hard-earned money on your wardrobe..  You can’t walk around without any clothes on, after all. But figuring out which pieces to save money on and which are worth the investment can be a tricky financial path to navigate.

    Timing Is Everything

    Retailers put out-of-season clothing on clearance to get rid of the stock from their stores. You can save a ton buying clothing when you don’t need them — like a winter coat in May or a swimsuit in December. Time your clothing purchases right and you can save hundreds on your clothing expenses.

    January and August seem to be the best months to invest in clothing, Thursday is the best day to shop for clothes, and there are certain days of the week that might be best for specific apparel types. In general, buying off-season usually gets you better deals than buying what’s hot and trendy in the moment, price-wise.

    Buy Quality Clothing

    Unless it’s practically free, you’re better off buying clothing items from good brands with a reputation for well-made items. If you give me the choice between a $10 shirt that’s falling apart after a few wears or a $100 shirt that still looks good after fifty washings, I’ll take the $100 shirt any day of the week.

    Wait, spend even more money on clothes? Yes, in general, you’ll get more value (or cost per wear) out of decent clothes that actually fit you and will last longer rather than doing the “fast food” approach to new clothing every year.

    Cheap T-Shirts, Premium Jeans

    Trendy clothes tend to cost more and have a shorter shelf life. You could spend hundreds trying to keep up with the fashion magazines, only to realize that you no longer adore that peasant skirt six months later. Stick to classic styles and basic pieces that will always be trendy. Just stack your wardrobe with t-shirts and jeans. This is what you will wear the most often.

    Splurge on one or two good pairs of really nice jeans.  Opt for premium denim with an attractive dark wash, with the right amount of stretch.  They should fit far better and will last longer than a cheaper pair. On the other hand, you shouldn’t judge t-shirts by their price tag. Find a cheap off brand tee that fits nicely and buy in bulk. This is because you tend to wash them more than other clothing, and they don’t have that long of a shelf life to begin with.

    Thrifty Thrift Stores

    Thrift stores sell gently used clothing at a deep discount. Many stores also have regular sales or a weekly special. For example, a thrift store in my area has a “50 percent off anything with a yellow tag” sale every Wednesday. Just make sure you’re shopping at a true thrift store and not a vintage clothing store. The difference: Vintage clothing stores sell trendier older pieces at a markup. Thrift stores sell older and newer clothes at a discount.

    If you’re smart about money, clothes shopping should start at thrift stores, consignment shops, yard sales, and the like. There’s a simple reason for that – there are people who tend to basically give away much of their stuff unused or barely used, so why not take advantage of it? Sure, you might browse through a thrift store and find absolutely nothing that works for you, but so what?

    You spent fifteen or twenty minutes searching for a bargain and came up empty. Move on. However, if you find even one or two items that work for your family’s needs and save 75% or more off of the original cost of the item, then the stop was well worth it.

    Sell It

    If you don’t wear certain items of clothing, drop them off at a consignment shop. When the shop sells your clothing, it will cut you a check for a portion of the profits. You won’t get the full amount, but you won’t have to do much work either. Consider going through your closet once a year. If you haven’t worn that sweater in 365 days, you probably don’t need it.

    Consignment is especially good for higher-end items like leather jackets and very lightly used party dresses. Make sure you bring the items to the shop clean and pressed to give them maximum appeal. If you don’t have local consignment shops, consider online stores that do the same thing, such as ThredUP, Poshmark, and The RealReal.

    On or Offline?

    Consider trying to shop in retail stores versus online. Online stores can have some great deals, and for people who know their sizes, it might work out most of the time. But by the time you pay shipping, realize something doesn’t fit and then pay to have the items returned, you might find that online shopping might not be as inexpensive as you think.  Make sure that you pay attention to shipping and return fees if you think there is a chance you might want to return the item.

    Online shopping for accessories, like purses, scarves, or brands that you know fit because you’ve worn them before would be your best bet. But also don’t forget the online version of your favorite local stores.  They’ve been known to also offer deep discounts and a larger selection than their brick and mortar stores on clearance items.