Home

Category: Lifestyle

  • Top Apps for Encouraging Mental Health

    Top Apps for Encouraging Mental Health

    Mental health is a serious issue. Medical studies report that mood disorders like anxiety and depression are the third-highest cause for hospitalization among adults 18-44. A few steps anyone can take towards bettering their mental state include regular exercise and a healthy diet. However, there are other steps available too. As always, if you are able, seek professional help for mental disorders that are negatively impacting your quality of life. None of these apps should be considered a substitute for a doctor. That said, these apps all make great companions to help you promote healthy mental health habits!

     

    Pacifica 

    Photo Credit: Routine Coach 

    Stress and anxiety are the main focus of Pacifica. Connecting users with a community of supportive people experiencing similar things, Pacifica is a great platform. The app also offers audio lessons to help with relaxation and mindfulness. Meditation and relaxation are also part of the app’s repertoire. Pacifica is described as an app that “helps break cycles of unhealthy thoughts.”  


  • Easy Smarthome Devices to Increase Your Homes Value

    Easy Smarthome Devices to Increase Your Homes Value

    From smart thermostats to automated lighting and everything in between, there’s no question that innovative, Internet-enabled technology can make a home more fun, convenient and safe. What you may not know, however, is that it also represents a potentially valuable investment. Im going to take a$7000 investment to smart home upgrade to increase my homes value by $25000. Lets look at how I spent it and what value it brings.

    Appliances

    I started with replacing the refrigerator and stove, with smart appliances.

    for a combined $4300 I installed the Samsung Family Hub 2.0 wifi enabled fridge and  the Self-Cleaning Slide-In Gas Convection Range both in stainless steel of course. considering I was going to have to spend $2000 anyway on these appliance the extra money to purchase the smart appliance is well worth it for the wow factor alone.  

    Samsung Family Hub 2.0 Refrigerator

    The Samsung Smart Fridge is really cool, looks great, creates shopping lists and lets me see inside from anywhere with 3 built-in cameras. It  also set expiration notifications to make sure everything is fresh. Plus it has Bixby built in for a digital voice assistant right in the kitchen, I’ve always wanted to talk to my refrigerator.

     

     

    Samsung Self-Cleaning Slide-In Gas Convection Range

    The stove looks like something you would see in a professionals kitchen, its no joke.  There are cooking options with the intuitive guiding light controls. This lets you program your favorite recipes, plus easily control temperature and  time settings. Wi-Fi connection gives you real-time alerts and control the cooktop and oven remotely. You just have to  download the app for iOS or Android devices.

     

    I was able to get both devices with a bundle package at best buy, factoring the money I was going to spend anyways im only out ($2130)

    Lighting

    Next step set the mood, for 3 main light switched I installed the Brilliant Smart Panel. With the digital touch screen or simple verbal commands, this switch can control your homes lights, air conditioning, intercom system, video surveillance, music and has a built in camera and even the ability to make video calls.

    I replaced all light bulbs with Phillips Hue Smart Lighting, this will allow the lights to be controlled from the 3 smart-panels, with the color bulbs setting different lighting and the colored light strips in the kitchen.

    This has added a great wow factor, adding in the Sonos speakers already through out the house. I can set music and lighting with just a shout. ($1000)

    Little Things

    The Smart Panel for Brilliant can control a lot of smart devices, so I upgrade my thermostat to the Nest, a Smart lock from August, Skydrop 8-Zone Smart Sprinkler Controller, Smart Security Video system from Nest with a video doorbell and an Amazon Eco Show for Alexa integration with all the new devices. ($1500)

    Bathrooms

    This home has 2 bathrooms so I’ve updated both toilets to the Smart 1 Piece by OVE. Little expensive, but a heated seat, warm bidet water, and air drying features are a big sell for small price. This looks great and comes with a remote control. You can adjust the power and temperature right from your remote.

     

     

    I also updated the 2 shower-heads and added the Moen U Shower Smart Home Connected Bathroom Controller. The Moen U integrates smart temperature control, timers and also an app. You can even pre-time your morning shower, walk yourself to the bathroom and it turns on automatically as soon as it senses your presence!

    I have effectively updated my home and prepped it for sale. With these little upgrade I have moved my home from the bottom end of its appraisal to the top by making it a cutting edge smart-home and increasing my value and netting me an extra $18, 000 after the sale.


  • Best Kitchen Cleaning Supplies

    Best Kitchen Cleaning Supplies

    Some people really just love cleaning. For other people, it’s a chore they hate but they’ve got to do it. In either event, you’re going to want the very best kitchen cleaning supplies when you go to clean up. If you’re not rocking the best kitchen cleaning supplies then you’re not getting the best clean!

    Best Kitchen Cleaning Supplies

    Wring Mop

    Sometimes the classics are well-worth using. The old-school wring-mop is fantastic for floors that aren’t made of wood. Tile, concrete and the like are ideal surfaces for using an old-school wring mop. Make sure you get a good detergent and some hot water, and maybe a bit of vinegar, and you can clean up most any mess on a non-wood floor.

    You know what they say: if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it! This is a critical cleaning supply for kitchens without wood floors.

    Non-cellulose Sponge

    Another great example of a classic kitchen cleaning supply that you should rely on is the non-cellulose sponge. Why non-cellulose? Well, their design doesn’t trap in water that will act as a bacteria-spawning hotbed. That means the normal bad smell and stains associated with sponges don’t come into play here!

    Sponges are great for use on surfaces like countertops that you can’t clean with a mop. After all, you can’t get your mop up that high! Sponges work wonders cleaning appliances like fridges and stoves, too. Make sure you pair them with a good detergent and warm water for best effect!

    Mrs. Meyers Cleaning Products

    A lot of reviewers rave over Mrs. Meyers brand cleaning products. They offer a wide variety of products that are must-haves for cleaning! Whether you’re just getting started with your own place or you’ve been cleaning for a while, you should invest in this cleaner. It’s great at breaking up accumulations of dirt and leaves a great smell behind.

    If you’re environmentally conscious, good news: Mrs. Meyers is too! It’s environmentally friendly without sacrificing cleaning power. That’s the definition of a win-win! It comes in a variety of pleasant scents that aren’t overpowering, making your kitchen smell great while you clean.

    The best part of Mrs. Meyers products is the price, though! From their website you can often find great deals on the product. Right now you can even get three bottles sixteen-ounce bottles for $9! That makes this product less expensive on average than leading brands! That’s hard to beat!

    Coconut Oil Spray

    Hear us out! We know it sounds weird, but coconut oil can play a vital role in your kitchen cleaning. For one thing, it’s all-natural, which is a huge bonus. For another thing, it’s a fantastic furniture polish! If you have furniture or leather in your kitchen, such as your kitchen table or chairs, coconut oil spray is a must. When used in conjunction with sponges and scrubbing, it can make your kitchen pieces look amazing!

    Microfiber Cloths

    The type of cloths you use to clean eyeglasses are amazing for kitchen cleaning. Whether you’re cleaning counters, floors, tables or anything else, microfiber cloths are amazing. They don’t trap water or bacteria, they dry really rapidly and they work on everything. Using them on a variety of surfaces will show you just how great they are!

    They’re also super handy for cleaning in other parts of the house. For instance, if you’ve got a flat-screen TV that needs to be cleaned, a dry microfiber cloth alone can do wonders.

    Bona Mop

    Bona brand mops are similar in some ways to Swiffer wet mops. The main similarity is in the way they both work well on wooden floors. If you live in an older home with an original wood floor, you know how difficult it can be to maintain. So many cleaners are bad about stripping the finish and damaging the wood.

    Thankfully, the Bona Mop and Bono Floor Cleaner are made to help maintain wooden floors. The cleaner is gentle on wood but great at cleaning up messes. If you’re trying to clean an older wooden floor, you might be at a loss as to how you’ll be able to get it clean without damaging it. That’s where Bona comes in!

    When it comes to cleaning, you’ll need a wide variety of supplies. While this isn’t a comprehensive list, we hope it helps you get started in cleaning your kitchens like a professional!


  • Online Furniture Stores that Beat Physical Retailers

    Online Furniture Stores that Beat Physical Retailers

    Furniture shopping can be fun, but stores are often crowded and most people don’t really have the time to actually go looking for furniture. Now, don’t get us wrong: we all love a good trip to Ikea. That said, there’s definitely a lot that goes into furniture shopping.

    Everything from the selection to bringing the furniture home to setting up can be a great big hassle.  But thanks to the internet, shopping for furniture and home decor has never been easier. With all these stylish and affordable goods at your fingertips, it’s very easy to decorate and style your home. It’s a new dawn for everyone who loves beautiful designs, and there are several great places online to shop for new furniture.

    If you’re looking to shop for new furniture and avoid the physical retailers, consider these online furniture stores. After all, online shopping is always a great alternative to going to brick and mortar stores to shop!

    Online Furniture Stores

    Blu Dot

    Blu Dot is an interesting retailer from a design perspective. They were originally founded back in 1997, and their focus has always been on design. The two architects and sculptor who started the site have always tried to make the furniture designs modern, striking and accessible all at once. This shows in both their web design and their furniture design!

    With a stated goal of bringing good design to as many people as possible, it’s easy to see why they’re so highly recommended. The mix of materials, styles and sensibilities at play with their furniture is always neat to see. If you like a more off-the-wall look, this is for you!

    Wayfair

    Wayfair is one of the most customer-friendly online furniture stores out there. While you might spend hours on other sites just looking for the right piece of furniture, Wayfair cuts through that like a knife. The “Shop This Look” feature allows you to create a cohesive interior décor that will wow any guest.

    It doesn’t stop there, though. You can filter results based on custom price ranges, and the search functionality is exceptional. The search results are highly accurate and almost always exactly what you’re looking for. They even offer free shipping on items over $50! That’s a hard deal to beat.

    Apt2B

    If you’re looking to furnish a smaller space, such as an apartment, this is the retailer for you. Apt2B specializes in smaller furniture for apartments and town homes, furniture that maximizes smaller spaces. The furniture is designed with an eye for space economy, bringing big style to small furniture.

    Thankfully, that big style doesn’t make for a big price tag: the prices are all rather reasonable. The range on display is upscale and modern, and even the hippest of buyers will love what they have to offer.


  • The Best Deals on Rugs: Floor it!

    The Best Deals on Rugs: Floor it!

    If you’ve got hardwood floors, this winter might be reminding you just how cold they can be. If that’s the case, you’re probably looking for area rugs. Here are some of the best deals on rugs you can find. Remember, no house is complete without these gorgeous additions.

    Best Deals on Rugs

    Home Depot

    Home Depot carries more than just home improvement supplies. Believe it or not, they also have some of the best deals on rugs. If you’re in the market for an elegant floor rug, look no further than Home Depot. They have everything from modern-style designs to classic, oriental-style rugs.

    No matter what you’re in the market for, large or small, you can find an affordable area rug to accommodate your needs at Home Depot.

    RugsUSA

    RugsUSA, as their name suggests, carries some of the best deals on rugs you’ll find online. Shopping online has a number of benefits when compared to shopping in store. For one thing, when you shop online you can avoid spending money on gas and wasting time standing in line.

    Not to mention, when you shop online you don’t need to worry about carting a huge area rug home. You can compare the styles you like side-by-side and sort by any criteria you like. RugsUSA has a fantastic user interface that makes it easy to navigate and find what you like.

    Best of all, their prices are quite competitive. The best part of shopping online is being able to compare prices on the fly without a salesperson nearby pressuring you. It’s a win-win!

    Target

    Target doesn’t have the deepest in-store inventory of rugs, but they do carry a number of area rugs online. If you check in-store, you’ll see that the inventory they do carry is high-quality and not terribly expensive. The best deals can be found online, though!

    Much like with RugsUSA, Target has an excellent online store you can shop from. You can compare prices and find the best rug for your home, all while hanging out at your house. What’s better than shopping in your PJs? Not much, by our count.


  • Ready to Face Addiction? Search Drug Rehab Centers

    Ready to Face Addiction? Search Drug Rehab Centers

    When you discover that a close friend or family member has a serious drug problem, it is often a surprise. Help is always there for those who are ready to face their addiction.

    Here are the leading signs and symptoms to look for with addiction.

    1. Profound Personality Changes– Everyone can have a ‘down-day’, or even a ‘down-week’. But when you witness a larger departure from the personality you’re used to seeing, listen to that warning.
    2. Isolation- When you observe a family member retreating, not engaging and struggling to communicate- this can be a sign there is something deeper going on.
    3. Job/Career Issues- Missing deadlines, absenteeism from work, and a drop off in performance can be the initial signs that a problem is growing. When a friend or family member cannot hold onto a job or is terminated repeatedly, it may be time to ask questions about what is going on at work and outside of work.
    4. Developing Unhealthy Friendships  – When people start using new substances, they may spend time with others who have similar habits. They people may encourage the unhealthy habits, and doing so makes it more likely for the user to feel like it is normal when it may be the opposite.
    5. Financial Trouble- Individuals who use drugs spend large and unexplained amounts of money. You may see bank accounts drained, assets sold, and going into debt to fuel their habit.
    6. Poor Judgement- Addiction can lead individuals to do things they normally wouldn’t to obtain the drug of choice. Behaviors like stealing, lying, engaging in unsafe sexual activity and committing crimes that can land people in jail are all part of this vicious cycle.

    If you’re ready to give someone the help they may need, here are a few tips on things to avoid at an intervention.

    • Labels like “alcoholic,” “addict,” “junkie,” etc.: These can be taken as accusatory. Instead, opt for neutral terms and avoid defining the person by their addiction.
    • Too many people: Pick a core group of close friends and family, and stick to a small number of people.
    • Being upset during the intervention: Find ways to manage personal feelings so the event doesn’t become overrun by strong emotions.
    • An intoxicated subject: If the subject of the intervention is intoxicated when the event is supposed to occur, it is not likely to be effective. Be prepared to wait for the person to sober up.

     

     


  • Botox Treatments: How do they Work?

    Botox Treatments: How do they Work?

    Botox treatments are the most popular non-surgical cosmetic procedure in the world! How much do you know about this popular procedure, though? Maybe you’ve heard about the muscle-paralyzing effects of the procedure, or maybe you’ve just heard that the procedure helps to eliminate wrinkles. Today we’re looking at the treatment, the chemical in question, and whether Botox might be a good idea for you.

    Botox Treatments

    What is Botox?

    The Botox treatment involves using a carefully controlled dose of a neurotoxin to paralyze some of the muscles in your face. That might sound pretty scary, but as long as a professional is applying the procedure it’s perfectly safe. The toxin itself, botulinum toxin, is created in laboratory settings by manipulating a bacterium called Clostridium botulinum.

    The toxin itself is unbelievably dangerous, and is one of the most poisonous substances to humans that science has ever studied. It is estimated that a single gram of botulinum toxin could kill over a million humans, and only a few kilograms could wipe out the entire human race. That’s a pretty scary thought!

    The Toxin

    The toxin itself usually has to be lab-made to be deadly to humans. The bacteria that create it normally don’t do so in their natural environments, unless they transform into vegetative cells. In nature Clostridium botulinum is often found near lakes, in forests and in soil. It often lives in the intestinal tract of small mammals, and can often be found in the gills of fish.

    In high concentrations, the toxin these bacteria create results in a medical condition called botulism. Botulism typically results in serious respiratory distress in affected people, and, if left untreated, results in death. While this all may sound rather scary, the botulinum toxin still has proven to be a successful therapeutic protein.

    What it Does

    Botulinum toxin, when used in small quantities and applied correctly, can paralyze muscles in a very localized fashion. It does this by blocking proteins before they can reach the nerve cells in the muscles. You’ve likely seen the jokes about people getting Botox and being unable to move their facial muscles: this protein-blocking action is the reason why.

    In order for muscles to work correctly, a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine has to be released. It binds to receptors in the muscles and this, in turn, causes the muscles to contract. It’s pretty simple in theory, but in your body is occurs millions of times in a short span of time and across your entire bodily structure. Botulinum toxin is capable of simply cutting this neurotransmitter off at the source, resulting in paralysis. This is what gives it the title “neurotoxin.”

    In Cosmetic Procedures

    All of the scary, nerve-blocking functions would be terrifying in a large dose, of course. In a controlled dose, however, this toxin can have some interesting cosmetic effects. Namely, Botox procedures are normally aimed at reducing the appearance of facial wrinkles or fine lines. It does so through its normal function of blocking proteins and paralyzing muscles, but in a highly localized area.

    By paralyzing these muscles, the intended effect is to cause the face to appear smoother and more youthful. Typically it takes a day or so for the toxin to take effect, though, when it does, it can result in facial stiffness for a few days while the body deals with the toxin. Following the procedure, many find their facial appearance to be much smoother, their wrinkles being reduced.

    There are a few side effects that can occur with the procedure, however. The most common ones include nausea, headaches or migraines, double vision and a general feeling of fatigue. Rarer side effects could include redness or local edema at the injection site, trouble swallowing, neck stiffness or weakness, dry mouth and other side effects.


  • Thinking About a Cruise to Alaska?

    Thinking About a Cruise to Alaska?

    When you think of a luxury cruise liner hitting an exotic destination, you normally think of some tropical island somewhere. However, there’s more than one type of luxury cruise. Take, for instance, Alaskan cruises!

    Snow-capped mountains, frontier towns and rugged beauty await vacationers in the northernmost part of the United States.

    Cruising to Alaska

    Why Alaska?

    Alaska is full of natural beauty, intriguing wildlife and full-tilt adventure. The island-filled southeast region of the state is a common destination of cruises from the West Coast. Fans of rugged beauty, exceptional cuisine and luxurious vacations can find a lot to love in Alaska.

    Best Cruise Lines

    A number of cruise liners have Alaska as a destination. From family-friendly Carnival Legend to romance-centric Ruby Princess, there’s something for any type of cruiser. Today we’re going to look at a few of the most notable ships plying the Pacific waters around the Alaskan islands!

    Nieuw Amsterdam

    The traditional, quiet, reserved and upscale appeal of Nieuw Amsterdam is great for more mature cruisers. If you’re looking for a more traditional cruise, maybe with less children running around, then consider this cruise liner.

    You won’t find rock-climbing walls or goofy children’s attractions on this boat, so if you’ve got kids coming with you, this might not be the best pick. However, if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway with you and your sweetheart, this refined cruise is for you.

    Scrumptious dining, upscale service and an air of dignified luxury are hallmarks of this cruise line. Of particular note is the main dining room, which is complimentary with any cruise. The food and service found therein are of excellent quality, perfect for any discerning cruiser.

    Carnival Legend

    For families looking for a good value, Carnival offers an affordable and enjoyable cruising experience. If you don’t mind the presence of kids and families, Carnival Legend offers a great Alaskan cruise on a very reasonable budget. Those who prefer a more family-friendly atmosphere will appreciate this type of cruise liner.

    Ruby Princess

    The Ruby Princess is a great cruise for people who want the best of both worlds. Ample luxury and fun activities go hand-in-hand on this Princess cruise liner. Attractions like the “Movies Under the Stars” (complete with popcorn and warm blankets) make this ideal for younger couples.

    Likewise, the adults-only sun deck is a wonderful and relaxing place to relax away from the kiddos. There’s even a Voice spin-off, “Voice of the Ocean,” to be found on this cruise liner. Combine that with great dining and wonderful interior design, and you’ve got one winner of a ship!


  • The Best Deals: 70% Off Eyeglasses!

    The Best Deals: 70% Off Eyeglasses!

    When it comes time to buy glasses, it won’t surprise you to hear that your prescription is going to be expensive. That goes double if you’re buying from your eye doctor’s office, as they have a pretty sizable markup on spectacles. Where should you go to buy your glasses, then? Certainly there’s somewhere you can go to find a better deal on glasses than your doctor’s office, right? Let’s look at some places you can go to save a couple of bucks on your next pair of glasses.

    Best Deals on Glasses

    Getting Your Prescription

    Once your eye doctor gives you a checkup on your eyes, they’ll write you a prescription for glasses. When they do so, ask them for a copy of it. They’ll likely encourage you to buy your glasses from their office, though you’re under no obligation to do so. It’s unlikely your eye doctor will have any issue giving you a copy of your prescription, but if they do, don’t stress!

    Legally, any licensed eye doctor has to give you a copy of your prescription. If your doctor isn’t cooperating in giving you your prescription after you’ve paid for the appointment, you should remind them that it is their legal obligation to do so. If they continue to insist you buy your glasses from them before they hand over such a prescription, it’s time to contact your local medical authority and find a new eye doctor.

    Online or In Store?

    First, consider whether you’d like to buy your glasses online or from a store. Make sure you’ve got your prescription from your eye doctor and consider which option you like better. When you shop online, you get to avoid the long lines and traffic associated with shopping out and about. On the other hand, you’ve also got to wait for shipping, and you can’t try frames on to see how they look on you.

    Shopping in-store allows you to see the glasses on your face before you sign up for the frames. Likewise, you can leave with the glasses you buy in-hand and won’t have to wait for shipping, which is nice. On the flip side, it’s often a bit pricier to go through any in-person retailers, as you can often find tremendous deals on glasses online.

    Costco Wholesalers

    If you have a Costco card and you need a new pair of glasses, you’re in luck. Costco is noted as one of the least expensive places to pick up glasses in-store in the country. All you need to do is bring them your prescriptions! Unlike LensCrafters, who have an average glasses cost of $369, Costco offers an average cost of $184 for their glasses. That’s considerable savings when you look at the glasses: they’re identical.

    Keep in mind that Costco, while inexpensive, isn’t the best deal out there on glasses. There are even better discounts you can find on glasses if you go through certain online retailers.

    Online Discounts

    There are a number of online sites you can go through to save a ton on glasses. Examples include ZenniOptical.com, EyeBuyDirect.com and 39DollarGlasses.com. These websites allow you to get a pretty sizable discount on your glasses through their bare-bones distribution. For examples, Zenni Optical grinds their lenses in China, uses low-cost materials for frames and includes shipping in the costs.

    Often, these sites keep the costs low by offering no ongoing service on the eyeglasses they sell. Once you buy the glasses, they’re yours, and any damage they incur is up to you to fix. However, when you can just buy another pair for under $50, this is a reasonable trade-off for some people.


  • When to Buy and When to Sell: Stock Basics

    When to Buy and When to Sell: Stock Basics

    While everyone knows the tropes of some Wall Street banker screaming “Sell! Buy! No, sell!” into a telephone, not everyone understands the basics of the stock market. Essentially, the stock market is a way to invest in shares of a publicly traded company. Investing in the stock market can be quite lucrative, assuming you know how to buy and sell like a pro.

    Today we’re going over some basic rules of thumb to help guide your purchasing and selling. Remember, past performance is never a direct indicator of future changes. However, understanding historical patterns is a big step towards understanding what current trends could indicate. Let’s get into some tips and advice.

    Stock at Low Prices

    Investors are notoriously skittish. When stock prices start hitting lows, the average stock investor steers clear of it. The ample supply and low demand often means that the stock maintains its low price until confidence is restored. This often makes low stock prices ample times to buy in on the cheap. If the stock never bounces back, you’re not out much. If it does bounce back to its previous highs, you make out like a bandit.

    This might sound like a cliché, but it’s an old truth. You should always buy when the stocks are low, and sell when they’re high. Doing anything else is playing a scared, defeatist strategy in a world won by the boldest operators.

    Knowing When to Buy

    For each stock you’ve got your eye on, make sure you know what range you’d be comfortable buying it at. That’s not to say you mark down a hard dollar amount, above which you’d never buy it. Instead, look at a price range. If a stock has been high for years but then drops closer to your range, you might wait to see if it falls further. Once it shows signs of resurgence, though, you should go ahead and snap it up so you can ride that momentum.

    Do Your Research

    It’s important that you do your research. There are ample resources online that can help you learn more about how to value stocks. Notably, figuring out when stocks are under- or over-valued is important when you’re making your buying decisions. The main way to find out whether a stock is undervalued is by using valuation techniques. These can be somewhat complex and involved, but here are some of the basics.

    Essentially, valuation techniques are ways that financial advisors and stock managers look at given company’s stock prices and compares them to the company’s projected profits. These formulas are strictly speculative, of course, as no one can tell the future. However, these formulas tend to be time-tested and bear out over longer time periods and across wide sample sizes. When a stock is undervalued, that’s the time you should buy it.

    Patience in Selling

    It’s a rookie mistake to sell out of a stock right as it begins to shoot up in price. Maybe you bought stocks in a company that just posted three profitable quarters in a row and had its stock prices double. It can be tempting to go ahead and cash out, getting a return on your investment and a contented feeling of success. However, this is usually not the case.

    Typically, an undervalued stock could take years to begin trading at its true value. While analysts might project it will go up, that doesn’t mean it’s trading where you want it yet. As such, riding out the stock for a few years and waiting for it to grow naturally is your best bet before you sell out of it.