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Adopting A Healthy Attitude To Teen Drug & Alcohol Use

November 6, 2018 by

It’s a tale as old as time: teenager comes home stoned; parent yells at teenager and punishes them; teenager strikes back by getting stoned more and more. As a parent, you know better than anyone else that teenagers are reactive. The more you tell them not to do something, the more they want to do it. In 2018, a more progressive approach can prevent this kind of escalation from occurring: tell your teen it’s normal to experiment with drugs and alcohol and that they need to make their own decisions, you might even share a tale from your own youth. Being open and honest goes a long way, and not having to be sneaky or ashamed will allow your teen to navigate these complicated choices without a shadow looming over them.

Teen drug

This honest approach may provide your teen with a healthier attitude to casual drug use and drinking at parties, but no matter how honest and open your relationship is, things can still go wrong. Teens who are new to drinking, susceptible to peer pressure and motivated to show off in front of their friends may do something stupid and hurt themselves or others to such an extent that you may end up looking to hire a criminal lawyer to defend them.

If you think only out-of-control problem teens get arrested, think again. Here are several plausible scenarios where an average, run-of-the-mill teen might get arrested:

Drinking & Not Driving – Drunk driving, of course, is a serious issue, but sometimes the police unfairly justify arresting teens who are just sleeping it off in their car by claiming that they had an intent to drive drunk. Warn your teen of this possibility.

Personal Use Vs. Dealing – In some states and provinces, teenagers carrying negligible quantities of drugs may be charged with intent to sell – often racial profiling can play into this, unfortunately. Also, another person may pressure your teen into “hanging on” to some drugs for them, which could land them in big trouble.

Memory Loss & Vandalism – If your teen is unaccustomed to drinking and consumes too much liquor, it could release a hidden trove of unconscious aggression. People do crazy things when they’re blackout drunk, and your teen may not even remember what happened in the morning – if their actions lead to criminal charges, one stupid mistake could jeopardize their future.

Consulting with an experienced, compassionate defence lawyer who is familiar with Crown Prosecution protocol is the best way to keep your teen’s life from going off the rails. If your teen is in legal trouble, book a consultation today.

Now that we’ve run down the frightening outcomes of alcohol and drug use, let’s look at healthy approaches for avoiding problematic behaviour:

A Continental Approach – Some might say that the Europeans have it figured out; many families on the continent allow their teens to have beer or wine with dinner from a young age if they choose. This more casual approach to drinking is more conducive to having a couple cocktails or glasses of wine with food or after a long day of work. Stigmatizing alcohol as if it were the forbidden fruit is a recipe for disaster.

Continental Approach

A Non-Judgmental Attitude – If you can be present and calm when your teen is telling you about difficult situations related to parties, romance, drugs and alcohol, they will confide in you increasingly. If you get upset and cry or yell, they will likely clam up and run to their bedroom. Contemporary wisdom recommends treating your teen as a fellow human being, rather than a child to be babysat; just listen carefully to them, and respond thoughtfully. These behaviors can happen to any teen, biological or not. But if you have a foster child, and are experiencing some of these behaviors, there are behavioral health services for children in foster care and their families. Don’t hesitate to reach out.

Hopefully, this post didn’t scare you too much, really, it’s all about cultivating a healthy atmosphere at home and doing your personal best no matter how difficult the situation.




9 Best DIY Party Food Ideas For Kids

November 5, 2018 by

party

It’s a lovely feeling to have a bunch of excited kids running around our backyard; having the time of their lives. Tired, they soon come rushing through the doors, expecting some delicious snacks and drinks. Yet, we always serve them the same thing: pizzas and coke. Kids love a little variety; they want their food to look colorful and pretty. Making these creative and cute snacks are easier than we imagine, and are guaranteed to make the little ones squeal with delight! Given below are the 9 best DIY party food ideas for kids.

1. CAKE POPS

cake pops

Cake pops are cute and delicious; making them the perfect snack to serve at a party! Crumble a prepared chocolate cake in a bowl until it resembles fine crumbs. Add in the chocolate frosting until the cake is moist. Roll the mixture into a tight ball and insert a stick about half way into it. The kids can help you dip the ball into melted chocolate (white or black) and decorate it with sprinkles! Place the cake pops in a glass, and place them in the freezer for about 20 minutes. Enjoy!

 

2. Mini Corn Dogs

shake

INGREDIENTS:
(For 12 Corn Dogs)
• 6 Hot Dogs
• ½ cup All-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ cup cornmeal
• 2 tbsp sugar
• ½ cup milk
• Salt & Pepper
• Vegetable Oil (for frying)
• 12 Lollipop sticks

INSTRUCTIONS:

Slice each hot dog into half and insert the lollipop sticks about half way into them. You can use wooden skewers as well. In a bowl, combine all the batter ingredients and whisk. Pour the batter into a long glass/ Mason jar. Dip each hot dog into the batter so that it completely covers the hot dog. Pour enough vegetable oil into a deep frying pan and heat the oil. Carefully place the hot dogs into the frying pan. Fry until golden brown for about 2 or 3 minutes. Drain the excess oil. You can fry about two or three at a time. Serve immediately, with ketchup/ mustard.

3. Donuts & Milk

shake

Donuts and milk make a classy pair; especially since it is so difficult to get the kids to drink their milk! Serve the milk in these cute milk bottles/Mason jar and pair it with colorful straws. Top it with a scrumptious donut to get the kids super excited!

4. Lego Head Marshmallow Pops

sticks

INGREDIENTS:

• Mini Marshmallows
• Regular Marshmallows
• Yellow Candy Melts
• Lollipop sticks
• Chocolate chips (for face details)

INSTRUCTIONS:

Cut the mini marshmallows in half horizontally and attach them to the regular marshmallows using melted yellow candy melts. Dip the lollipop stick in the melted candy melts and insert it into the bottom of the regular marshmallow. Dunk the heads in the melted yellow chocolate melts. Once the Lego Heads have dried, you can use chocolate chips for the eyes, or use edible food markers. These are absolutely adorable, and are bound to get the kids wanting for more!

5. Jello Sailboat

mocktail

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 box blue raspberry Jello
• Mandarine oranges or Clementines
• Long toothpicks
• White card stock

INSTRUCTIONS:

Prepare the Jello, by following the instructions on the box, in small clear cups or glasses by filling the cups to the top. Cut small 1 1/2″ tall triangular sail shapes out of card stock and attach to the ends of long toothpicks with glue or clear tape. Once the Jello has set, peel your Clementines and separate them into segments (one segment per Jello cup).Insert the toothpick sails through the top of the clementine pieces, and into the middle of your Jello cups. Enjoy!

6. Fairy Bread

rolls

INGREDIENTS: (Serves 8)

• 8 slices white bread, with crusts trimmed
• ¼ cup margarine, softened.
• ¼ cup multi colored sprinkles
• 2 tbsp sugar

INSTRUCTIONS:

Mix the margarine and sugar together. Using a rolling pin, roll the square bread pieces until they are thin. Place a thin layer of the margarine-sugar mixture on top of the bread. Get the kids to add rainbow sprinkles on top of it. Finally, roll the bread gently into a tight spiral shape. It’s as easy as that, and is so delicious! The kids are bound to love this treat!

7. Strawberry Nutella Mini Pancake Kabobs

sticks

INGREDIENTS: ( FOR 8 KABOBS)

• 1 small bottle Bisquick™ Shake ‘n Pour™ pancake mix
• 1 small jar Nutella™
• Fresh strawberries (sliced
into ½ inch thick slices)
• 2 large firm bananas, peeled and sliced into 1/2 inch thick rounds
• 4 wooden skewers broken in half to make 8 small kabobs

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Prepare the pancake batter according to package directions and pour small dabs of batter onto a hot, lightly greased griddle for 1 -1/2 inch diameter pancakes (about 3/4 tablespoon of batter per mini pancake).
2. Cook the mini pancakes for about a minute on each side or until slightly browned.
3. Spread some Nutella™ on each of the pancake bites and layer the ingredients onto the kabob sticks. Serve immediately and enjoy!

8. Rasberry 7UP® Punch

mocktail

INGREDIENTS: (SERVES 6 TO 8)
• 2 L 7UP® or Diet 7UP®
• ½ gallon Raspberry Sherbet
• 2 Tbs lime juice
• 2 Tbs lemon juice

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a blender or food processor, mix together the sherbet and half the bottle of 7UP®, with the lemon and lime juice.
2. Stir in remaining 7UP®, and serve cold! Trust me; every kid at your party will love this slushy, refreshing drink!

9. Milk & Cereal Popsicles
ice cream

INGREDIENTS: (Yield varies according to size of mold: approximately 6 popsicles)
• 1 med/large banana (or 2 small)
• 1 Cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 Cup strawberry milk / Chocolate Milk / White Milk
• 1/2 Cup dry cereal ( Fruit Loops, Cheerios, Cocoa Puffs, Captain Crunch )

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In your blender, mix the banana on medium until mashed and smooth (approximately 1 minute).
2. Slowly add in yogurt and milk. Continue mixing until blended. Add the cereal and stir by hand to avoid crushing it.
3. Pour into Popsicle molds. Freeze for 8 hours, until solid.




Don’t Gamble With Your Family’s Life: Gambling Responsible Week Is Addressing Concerns In The UK and Ireland

November 2, 2018 by

Gambling

This week the gambling industry is coming together to promote responsible gambling in the UK Ireland. There are more than 11,000 gambling venues involved and more than 127,000 staff will discuss what it means to gamble responsibly and how moms and dads can ensure things are not going out of control.

‘This campaign has been strongly backed by the industry’ said John Pentin CEO of a leading UK Online Casinos aggregator site. ‘I was looking this morning, and the hashtag #RGWeek18 has already been seen more than 2.3 million in few hours. It is a really good initiative to show that the industry is working together to protect vulnerable people and do whatever it takes to avoid the misery that gambling addiction can cause to families.’

Since nowadays gambling is strongly linked with football sponsorship there have been lots of top football clubs that have joined the initiative. Only last week Premier League side Crystal Palace has recorded a #RGWeek18 video. Advertisements have also been showed during the televised match against Arsenal.

In the SkyBet Championship, Middlesbrough has also carried gamble responsibly messages on the LED screens and on the big screen in their televised clash against Derby County. West Ham United have also shown support for the campaign with players that wore Responsible Gambling Week training top just before playing in the Carabao Cup against Spurs. Welsh side Swansea City will also have the campaign logo in their shirts in their weekend clash against Rotherham.

This is the result of the English Football League request to all its 72 clubs for support in displaying responsible gambling messages across their media and social media.

Not only football has supported the Responsible Gambling Week but also the British Horse Racing Association. Messages to support the campaign will be shown in many meeting including at Ascot on November 3rd (that race is televised). All the runners will have the Responsible Gambling Week message and also animated videos will also show on big screen and members of staff will have the RGW badges.

The Responsible Gambling Week campaign is managed and run by the Industry Group for Responsible Gambling which has members in all the sector of the gambling industry: remote, online, bookmakers, casinos, bingo clubs and so on. The week will run from 1st to 7th November and for the first time it will also include Ireland where the campaign will be backed by around 800 bookies and also by the Horse Racing Ireland and the Irish Greyhound Board.

The concept is ‘Let’s Talk About Responsible Gambling’ and in every venue and also online educational material will be made available to trigger conversations on how to gambling for fun and in a completely safe way.

Customers that will require more information will also be directed to the GambleAware website.

John Hagan, Chairman of the IGRG said: ‘We want to spark a national conversation about how to gamble responsibly. We want to have customers talking with operators positively and constructively. The fact that the whole industry has come together to make this campaign possible is a great sig.




6 Things To Do Now That You’re a Parent

November 1, 2018 by

Parent child relationship

If you recently had a baby, congratulations! It may seem scary, but there truly is no greater joy in the world. With that being said, in between diaper changes, feedings, and not sleeping, you need to do your part to become a parent. This means making smarter decisions for you and your family, being more prepared for the future, and just doing the best you can. However, everyone knows that life sure was different before kids, so here are the six things you need to do now that you’re a parent.

  1. De-clutter.

Your home is supposed to be a safe space, and you may enjoy the way things are, how you decorated, or your random collection of goods. But now that you’re a parent, it’s time to de-clutter your home and make room for all the new kid-related stuff you’re going to acquire over the years. Make room in your garage when you sell your damaged car, donate your unused tools, or just purge items that have accumulated over the years. Do the same inside your home. Go through attics, basements, closets, and all other storage areas until your home is free of the items you no longer need.

  1. Be financially responsible.

If you were living by the seat of your pants before your baby was born, now it’s time to reign in on the spending. Create a budget that works for you and your family and stick to it. The cost of a child will not only add to your expenses, but you’ll likely want to put some of that money away for a rainy day. Plus, think about all the things you have coming up, such as birthday parties, college tuition, weddings…and these will all cost you money that you should plan for today.

  1. Plan for the future.

The future may seem like a long way away, but you have someone depending on you now, so it’s important you stop thinking the future won’t make its way into your life. Instead, now is the time to start planning for the future. Does this mean you need to draft or edit a will? Does it mean you need to start a savings account? Does it mean you need to drop a bad habit? It could be all of these things and then some. The real decision will come from you and how you decide you want to spend your future and provide for your child’s future. Knowing what you want then will help you decide what you need to do today.

  1. Pay attention to where you live.

Your home now may have been perfect for you before having a child, but maybe it’s not the right place now. After your child is born, it’s very important that you pay attention to where you live. Is it a safe neighborhood? How are the schools? Is there anything you absolutely love or absolutely dislike about it? Is there enough room? Can you afford to move? All of these questions need to be answered in the best possible way so you can ensure your current residence is the best place for you to raise a child. If you have any doubts, then you may want to consider finding a new place to call home.

  1. Love unconditionally.

Although this one may come easily, it’s still very important for you to love unconditionally and put yourself second with the decisions you make. Your child is depending on you to be raised the right way, to be kept healthy, and to learn and grow, so that means you need to give them all the support they can handle. Keep in mind that both you and your child are going to make mistakes on this long journey, but loving unconditionally will help you get through any challenging times that may arise.

  1. Remember to be yourself.

Having your first child will be a big change, but that doesn’t mean you should forget who you were before your child was born. Be sure you still see your friends, indulge in hobbies, and take date nights with your significant other. If you remember to be yourself, you’ll be happier and less stressed, and this will all have a positive impact on your child.

Being a parent is the toughest job you can have, but making certain changes and adjustments can help to make the situation easier on everyone. Just remember there is no instruction manual, and you’re probably doing a great job anyway.




4 Natural Remedies for Seasonal Allergies

October 31, 2018 by

allergy

When the season changes, it can be exciting to break out the shorts and get ready for swimming pools and sun rays. What you might not be ready for are the countless sneezing fits, wheezing and coughing that ensues. While many people see green grass and good times, for over eighteen million people, they see allergens floating everywhere waiting to ruin their day.

If you are one of the people that suffer from allergies, seasonal allergy remedies are likely to be on your mind. Being able to breathe and live your life even when it is allergy season is all that you ask. In this article, we are going to talk about four natural remedies for seasonal allergies and how you can enjoy your life even during allergy season.

1) Stress Less

Stress affects your body inside and out and is a response to situations that interrupt the normal balance of your life. Stress can cause your body to make adjustments whether it’s in your immune, digestive, cardiovascular or nervous system. All of your systems understand the stress and adjust as they interpret stressors.

When your body feels stress, it releases hormones and other chemicals which includes histamine. Histamine is a chemical that leads to allergy symptoms. Stress doesn’t cause allergies, but it can make allergic reactions worse because of the increase of histamine in your system.

If your life is one stress-filled ball of energy, there are things you can do to stress less. One of the easiest things you can do to reduce the amount of stress in your life is meditation. If you can sit and be quiet and let your mind rest, this send signals to your brain that everything is fine and your body will experience less stress. You may also enjoy yoga and journaling which can decrease the level of stress in your life.

2) Spicier and Lighter Diet

Food is always getting a bad rap, but if we eat the right foods, it can actually help us with our allergies. While eating a lot of meat and dairy might feel good during the winter months, if you keep that diet up throughout the spring, you are going to experience some challenges.

Eating lighter meals to help support a strong digestive and immune system will keep you from suffering from allergy symptoms that would have been worse than what you are currently dealing with. Some people even recommend having one day each week where you eat very light and only have fresh juice and smoothies.

Another trick is eating bitter foods, herbs, and spices. These help with congestion and excess mucus that often tries to set up shop in your lungs.

If you are a heavy wine or beer drinker, you should cut back since both contain sulfites and histamines. Both of these have been linked with increasing the risk of symptoms like a stuffy nose. Try drinking hot tea instead for better results. Hot water with lemon and honey is, and cayenne can also be helpful during allergy season.

3) Chest-opening Yoga Poses

Yoga is a great stress reliever, but it also can help you open up your chest so you can breathe easier. It is often easy to bend over and slump during the winter because we are trying to stay warm but sadly we continue this habit even after winter is long gone. When you open your chest, it will help if your nasal passages and lungs are congested.

Here are some of the yoga poses you can use that will help you open up your chest:

  • Bow pose is when you lay on your stomach with your arms along your side. Reach back and grab your ankles. Pull your legs towards your back and look up as your body stretches.
  • Cobra pose is when you lay on your stomach with your palms on the floor beside your chest. Slowly push your upper body up off the floor as you press the tops of your feet into the floor to protect your lower back.

There are other yoga poses you can use to open up your chest, but these are a good start.

4) Acupuncture

For those of you that aren’t needle phobic, acupuncture could be a good option for you. This ancient Chinese healing practice uses ultrafine needles to stimulate specific points and helps with health in the body. The goal would be to relieve seasonal stuffiness, sneezing, and runny nose. Some people see amazing results within a matter of weeks when working with acupuncturists.

Bonus Tip

Keep your environment as clear of allergens as possible by regularly cleaning your floors and vacuuming rugs. If you aren’t attached to your rugs, it is even better to get rid of as many rugs as possible since this is a favorite hiding place of allergens. You should also take a shower before bed so that you can wash any allergens off your body and out of your hair.

Conclusion

Allergies don’t have to take over your life when the season hits. Using these natural remedies can help you get control of your life during allergy season. If you’ve been dreading allergy symptoms, you now have a fighting chance against the common suspects. As advancements in healthcare continue, more and more people are learning about their bodies and how to help them function at their peak. Work along with your doctor to learn as developments happen around allergy research.




The Digitalisation of the NHS

October 30, 2018 by

online consultation

The NHS (National Health Service) is the public health service for those within the United Kingdom. While many believe that they are using it for free, it’s funded by the taxpayer. Still, in any given emergency, the sick and wounded are guaranteed medical attention, whether it’s through a refined bed management system or the bedside manner of a doctor or nurse. In the end, despite the few faults it has, the NHS is a point of pride in the UK.

In their quest to help and heal, the NHS has slowly been going digital in their operations to boost their efficiency. Consequently, let’s look at what changes they’re making.

Hospital Bed Management System

Anything that improves patient care is a big plus. Of course, it used to be that everything was documented on paper; patient data, diagnosis, bed availability, staff information, and any other administrative information. When it’s all getting scattered over receptionist desks, left behind in wards five floors away, or stored with a hundred other files in a filing cabinet, it can hinder productivity and efficiency.

Consequently, the NHS has now gone digital and implemented a bed management system. It partly uses automation to improve staff administration time and refine patient care. Moreover, it also provides real time data through the staff member’s screen, giving them updates on the patient’s wellbeing or even the availability of beds in their ward. Ultimately, boosting patient care in this way refines the service the NHS provides, and allows them to deal with patients in a timely manner.

GP and Patient Relations

Healthcare in the UK typically begins with the GP (General Practitioner), unless they’re bypassed for a trip to A&E (Accident and Emergency). Poorly people will sit in the waiting room as they wait to see their GP, a doctor who will refer them on to specialist treatment or prescribe them medication then and there. It’s straightforward, but often the process of getting seen is bogged down.

However, the NHS is now implementing different digital processes to make seeing a GP a far faster event. For example, they’re introducing online consultations, allowing patients to have lengthier discussions with their family doctor. Moreover, the NHS are linking up their IT systems at reception to streamline patient data into an organised algorithm. Managing appointments for administration staff has just become far easier and will likely reduce the waiting times patients must endure before they secure treatment.

Electronic Referral Service

Patients are being managed effectively via other digital means too. The NHS’ Electronic Referral Service was first put into action in 2015, helping patients have a degree of control over the appointments they sign up for. Of course, there’s a degree of comfort in partially customising the healthcare one receives, and it boosts understanding between the medical experts and the patient.

The e-referral service allows patients to check appointment details, and both change and cancel appointments. Sometimes, they can also choose between different hospitals and clinics for their treatment too, and it can all be done online from the comfort of their own home. They can also choose private medical care if they provide services to the NHS. In the end, this level of choice can make people feel more in control of the medical battles they’re fighting.




6 Signs That Your Fridge Needs to Be Repaired

October 25, 2018 by

freezer

A fridge is a very important appliance in the kitchen – you can’t cook much without a fridge and so you need to keep an eye on it. Often, fridges can be easily repaired without having to be replaced and you should be able to know what signs to look out for in regard to a broken fridge. Here, we’ll talk you through six signs that your fridge needs to be repaired. Keep reading if you’d like to find out more.

There’s A Buzzing Sound

When your fridge is running, do you hear a buzzing sound? This might be a sign that your fridge needs to be repaired as there is clearly something wrong with your compressor or the other components in the fridge. Don’t forget, it is normal for your fridge to make a small bit of noise but if you hear a lot of buzzing then you should call a repair company.

Your Energy Bills Are High

No one wants to be paying extremely high energy bills so if you are struggling with yours then you should check out your appliances. If your fridge is having to work extra hard each day, it is going to be using a lot more energy and so your bills will be higher. It might be that you don’t have a very efficient fridge, but you also might find that there is something deeper wrong with it.

Your Food Is Spoiled

Food that you keep in the fridge will only stay fresh for a certain amount of time but if your food is going off quicker than it should then there might be something wrong. No one wants to have to waste money on food that they are going to throw out so think about regassing a fridge or getting a professional to do it for you. Once you have your fridge repaired, you’ll be happy with the results.

There’s Condensation

Do you find that when you open your fridge there is a lot of condensation? This might be a sign that you need to call someone out to repair your fridge. Before you do, make sure to check the rubber seal and see if it has any mould on it. Don’t ignore this problem as it can get worse over time and cause your food to not be at the right temperature.

Your Motor Is Over-Heated

In your fridge, you’ll find that your motor can actually be warm while it is at work. Of course, if you find that your fridge is actually a lot warmer than it should be then you should think about getting it repaired. This problem is often a sign of something deeper that is wrong with your fridge so make sure not to ignore it and get it fixed as soon as possible.

The Freezer Is Icy

Many fridges come with a freezer and often this can have its own problems. Your freezer is supposed to be icy but if you find that there are big chunks of ice inside your freezer then you have a problem. Of course, you can defrost your freezer but if you are having to do this relatively often then you should think about getting your fridge and freezer repaired as soon as possible.

If you happen to see any of these signs when you look at your fridge, you should think about calling a repair company as soon as possible. Don’t try to perform tasks yourself unless you know exactly how they are supposed to be done.




Happy Hour in Scottsdale: The Best Places to Go

October 24, 2018 by

World travel

Parenthood is a mix of fun and exhausting. From the early morning struggles of preparing the kids for school to late night runs to the grocery, life becomes a lot different when you become parents.

But because you now run a brood doesn’t mean you can have some fun every once in a while. Parents need a break too and what better way to do it than through travelling. And if you’re not so comfortable leaving the kids for a long time to go overseas, you can plan a getaway in one of the many beautiful destinations in the country, one of which is Scottsdale, Arizona.

And of course, you can’t miss including Scottsdale happy hour in your to-do list while you’re alone without the kids. To get you started, here are some of the best places to go for happy hour in Scottsdale:

Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row

Nothing beats good American gastropub fare, good drinks and a bustling party scene to enjoy your vacation in Scottsdale. Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row has been a mainstay in the area and offers over 40 different types of whiskey and a long list of craft beers too.

Address: 4430 N. Saddlebag Trail 105, Scottsdale, Arizona

Happy Hour: Monday – Friday, 4PM to 7PM

Blue Clover Distillery

Founded by longtime friends who love to entertain, Blue Clover Distillery creates handcrafted distilled spirits in its own micro-distillery in Scottsdale and offers select cocktails like Marshall’s Way, Mule Kick and Scottsdale Sunset made with their signature vodka during happy hour. Their famous Giggle Water cocktail is a must-try along with their delicious appetizers like Green Chile Cheese Fries, Quesadilla and Chorizo Poutine.

Address: 7042 E Indian School Rd., Scottsdale, Arizona

Happy Hour: Tuesday – Friday, 3PM to 7PM

Culinary Dropout

If its name isn’t intriguing enough, Culinary Dropout is a must-visit for its classic meals like the 36-hour pork ribs and its famous fried chicken. But this laidback gastropub is more than just good food because it also offers house-made cocktails and ice-cold craft beers that you’ll surely enjoy. During happy hour, Culinary Dropout offers drinks at very cheap prices. A Sangria or Well Cocktail will only cost $4.00 and a Double Blind or Airplane Pickleback that has spicy pink pickle juice will only set you $5.00. Of course, you can’t miss trying its famous salty-creamy Pretzel and Provolone Fondue, which is a steal at only $7.00.

Address: 7135 E. Camelback Rd., Suite 125, Scottsdale, Arizona

Happy Hour: Monday – Friday, 3PM to 6PM

Brat Haus

Brat Haus has the most welcoming beer garden in Arizona boasting 28 craft beers on tap, so if you’re looking to enjoy happy hour in a different way, this is the place to go. Its menu is inspired by European food craftsmen and features a wide variety of burgers, brats, salads and sides. Enjoy Brat Haus’ delicious grub and draft beers at $2.00 off in their open-air patio during happy hour.

Address: 3622 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale, Arizona

Happy Hour: Tuesday – Friday, 11AM to 6PM

Craft 64

At Craft 64, you’ll never run out of good beer to drink. Known as the premier place for local craft beer, great wine and artisan wood-fired pizza, Craft 64 boasts of over 36 taps of Arizona beers and an extensive wine list. It also makes some of the best wood-fired pizzas in the area and during happy hour, you can enjoy small plates of Mozzarella Caprese Sandwich, fresh-baked Focaccia and a Charcuterie plate for just $8.00 each. And their beers on the tap are just for $1.00, so you’re getting a great deal.

Address: 6922 East Main Street, Scottsdale, Arizona

Happy Hour: Monday – Sunday, 4PM to 7PM

To cap off the list is Citizen Public House in 7111 E. 5th Avenue that offers a menu of innovative bar snacks and an impressive list of glass wines, draught beer and specialty cocktails that are on discount during “Good Citizen’s Social,” its version of happy hour, which happens daily from 4PM to 6PM.

Did this list make you crave for a cocktail? Start planning your vacation in Scottsdale, Arizona today. You’ll surely enjoy everything that it has to offer plus a few good beers and cocktails while you’re at it.




Things New Moms Should Be Prepared For

October 23, 2018 by

newborn

It might seem like 9 months is a long time and you will have to wait forever before the baby comes, but trust me you will get the new baby before you know it. Meanwhile, the best way to utilize those 9 months is to be prepared for the baby. Think ahead about what you need to be ready for. I am here to provide you with tips on what new moms should be prepared for.

6 Things New Moms Should Be Prepared for:

  1. Trust Your Instincts: You should realize that it is your baby and you carried him for 9 months and that you two are connected. Trusting your instinct. I mean do not to look up every single thing in google. Google might often confuse you when it comes to these things. If Google says you need to feed the baby every 3 hours and your baby starts crying after 2 hours then screw Google. If you think your baby is hungry, then feed him. No need to trust Google on everything.
  2. Learn the signals: It will take your baby at least a year to start speaking a bit, but what should you do before that? Learn some common cues that the baby does. The baby will not simply start crying all of a sudden, it will start to suck fingers, reach out with arms and legs etc. Look out for these cues and when you see them, start feeding him/her before the screaming or crying starts.
  3. Learn to use the time: As per research, a newborn baby sleeps almost about 16 to 17 hours a day. Use that time to get yourself some sleep. Most common problem with new moms is the lack of sleep. They always complain about not getting enough sleep. What you should do is sleep along with the baby and not clean room or do any other chores. Get your 8-9 hours’ sleep every day when the baby sleeps. It is not essential for the baby to sleep all night, he might wake up 4 hours before the sunrise, so the best way to deal with sleep is to sleep when the baby is asleep.
  4. Home for the baby: Most of the new moms do not have big enough homes to raise their babies. You will need to give him a separate room. As the baby starts to grow, more privacy will be required. The best thing to do here is to either extend your house and make it bigger or buy a new house. Now, you do not need to worry too much when it comes to buying a new house with not so good credit history or with a little money. You can easily get a bad credit mortgage loan if you want to. There are a lot of online mortgage lenders that can help new parents such as LendingTree, CitiMortgage, Navy Federal etc.
  5. Pediatrician: You need to start looking for a good family doctor for the baby. A good pediatrician is really essential for the time when the baby is growing. The best time to look for a good pediatrician is during the pregnancy. Take help from your partner and both go out and look for the best doctor out there during the pregnancy period.
  6. Divide The chores: Sit with your partner and talk about the chores before the baby comes. You will not be able to do all the household chores alone after the baby arrives. You will need help from your partner. Make a list of all the household works and decide who gets to do what.

Conclusion:

Raising a baby can be really tough at first, but planning ahead can make things a lot easier. Read more and more books during the pregnancy and ask for advice from other veteran mothers. Good luck!




9 Destinations for the Perfect Couples Retreat

October 22, 2018 by

Once you’re married and have started a family, it may feel like all of your future travel plans revolve around that, meaning it’s nothing but family-friendly resorts and trips to Disneyland for the next decade of your life. However, this doesn’t have to be the case, as everyone deserves travel experiences that are personally enriching, no matter what stage of life they’re at.

Once you’ve made the right arrangements, jetting off for a couples retreat with your spouse will be one of the most rewarding and enjoyable vacations you’ll ever take. It’s the perfect way to rediscover your partner and inject some new life into your marriage, and it’s a well-known truism that couples who travel together, stay together.

A romantic getaway is always a good idea, whether you’ve been married for thirty years or dating for six months. Here’s your guide to the ultimate couples retreat destinations, should you need some inspiration.

Santorini, Greece

Greece

Source: Pixabay

The gleaming white limestone buildings that cluster the hillsides of this idyllic Greek island are world-famous, with Santorini being one of the most desirable travel destinations on Earth. The island is actually made up of the remains of a volcanic eruption that occurred thousands of years ago, which caused the unique formations that constitute the dreamy landscape of Santorini. The island is full of private, intensely romantic hotel suites and villas which look over the Aegean Sea, and the sunset is probably one of the most powerful aphrodisiacs known to man. The popularity of this destination naturally means that prices can be sky-high, but if you book outside of peak times (October is the cheapest month), you’ll grab yourself a bargain.

Kerala, India

Kerela

Source: Pixabay

Kerala is a quiet state in southern India that has been increasingly popping up on travelers’ radars in the past couple of years. The state is full of stunning natural scenery and some of the best cuisines on the subcontinent, with Keralan food finally making a well-deserved debut on the tables of Michelin-starred restaurants across the globe. The state is home to some truly gorgeous resorts, couples’ hideaways, and yoga retreats, making this the ideal spot to come to with your partner and experience true peace and quiet. Make sure to book a romantic cruise along one of the many rivers and canals running through the region, surrounded on all sides by mango trees and curious elephants.

Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne

Source: Pixabay

Sometimes the best couples break is a city break, and Melbourne has everything a couple could ever want. The city is an idyllic, laid-back alternative to manic Sydney and the dollhouse-style Victorian architecture that lines the streets means simply going for a stroll is one of the most romantic things you can do here. You’ll want to do as the local couples do and experience the thriving sporting scene here, with one of the most prestigious events in the country, the Melbourne Cup, taking place here every November. You can take your partner to the historic Flemington Racecourse, relax in an elegant booth after checking the tips on Oddschecker, which has the latest odds for couples looking to turn a profit. Perhaps you’ll have the chance to toast your good luck with a few glasses of champagne. Should you win, spend your good fortune together at one of the intensely atmospheric Bistro d’Orsay restaurant, a local institution and valentines’ destination of choice.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

rio de janeiro

Source: Pixabay

A trip to Rio might not be for everyone, but one thing we all can agree on is that the city absolutely oozes sexiness and vitality, making it one of the best couples retreats on Earth. Make sure to book yourself into a suite in the iconic Copacabana neighborhood, so you and your beau can sip on bittersweet caipirinhas and watch the sunset over Sugarloaf Mountain. Once you’re feeling the buzz, ensconce your partner off to a Samba club, where you can dance the night away with the couples of Rio beneath the stars. The city is safer than it has ever been and the exchange rate is good, making now the perfect time for a sexy vacation in Rio de Janeiro.

Granada, Spain

Granada

Source: Pixabay

It’s hard to know where to begin with Granada, an ancient city in southern Spain made up of inviting alleyways and ornate palaces, all just begging to be discovered by the adventurous couple. The highlight of the city is the Alhambra, a sprawling Moorish palace overlooking Granada, a kind of dreamworld filled with isolated gardens, courtyards, and intricate water features. Once you’ve spent a day strolling arm-in-arm around the palace, your next step should be to explore the warren of alleyways in the old town below, chock-full of alluring wine bars and tapas restaurants, where you can have your fill of Jamón Ibérico, Rioja wine and, of course, some Mediterranean oysters. Cap off your evenings with rooftop drinks overlooking the stunning Sierra Nevada, and before long you’ll be making plans to run away here together permanently.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland

Source: Pixabay

While Iceland may be freezing, you’ll find plenty to do here to warm each other up. The capital city is compact and cute, composed mostly of quaint wooden cottages, many of which are filled with inviting cafes and cozy pubs in which to while away the evening. You should make it your priority to spend the day together in the iconic Blue Lagoon : the beautiful geothermal spa is one of the most well-known attractions in Iceland. The Lagoon is the perfect way to spend a snowy day with your partner, and the ancient waters supposedly not only have healing properties, but also powerful aphrodisiac qualities. Reykjavik also happens to be one of the best spots for observing the Northern Lights, a stunning natural phenomenon which makes a romantic backdrop to any evening.

Saint Lucia, West Indies

Marigot bay

Source: Pixabay

There are plenty of Caribbean getaways for couples of all stripes, but it’s undoubtedly St Lucia which feels closest to paradise on Earth. The former French colony is home to some of the best beaches in the world, as well as a number of award-winning couples-only resorts for you to choose from. The natural diversity of this small island means you can go diving from waterfalls into crystal blue lagoons, exploring jungles filled with monkeys and tropical birds, relaxing on white sandy beaches and climbing volcanic mountains, all in one day. The elegant colonial architecture will also help you feel like you’ve been transported to the City of Love itself for a few hours, while you dine on freshly caught fish and wash it down with Caribbean rum.

Maldives, Indian Ocean

Maldives

Source: Pixabay

The Maldives is the ultimate definition of escape, a place where couples can go to be truly free from the interruptions of the outside world. Much of this tiny island nation is made up of floating villages, many that have been repurposed as romantic resorts, where couples can rent a villa on stilts above the deep blue waters of the Indian Ocean, and put all the cares of the real world behind them. Prices may be high, so try to visit in April or November, when you can grab the best bargains.

Bologna, Italy

Bologna

Source: Pixabay

They say the way to a lover’s heart is through their stomach, and this doesn’t ring truer than in Bologna. This gorgeous Renaissance city is lovingly nicknamed “The Fat One” as it’s the best place on Earth to sample the smash-hits of Italian cuisine. This is the destination of choice for couples looking to engage in a weekend of pure decadence, where you can spend your days together in trattorie feasting on pasta and wine, before walking it off with a midnight stroll and some gelato. The city is one of the most beautiful in all of Italy, which is really saying something, and the sight of the sunset lighting up the blood-red buildings is enough to make any couple sigh.

Sometimes the best boost for any couple is a little adventure, and the places listed enough provide more than enough to keep you and your partner stocked up on happy memories for all eternity.




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