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Family-friendly amusement parks you can’t miss in Puerto Rico

July 26, 2022 by

If you are dreaming of gorgeous beaches, stunning tropical scenery, and warm, sunny weather for your next vacation, then Puerto Rico should be high on your list. One of the Caribbean’s most charming and delightful islands, it boasts a fascinating history and culture, great cuisine, and all the best parts of a tropical paradise island…plus you don’t even need your passport to get there!

For families, Puerto Rico is one of the finest Caribbean destinations, full of family-friendly activities and excellent attractions that are perfect for kids of any age. So if you are looking for somewhere to take the kids this year that is as enjoyable for them as it is for you, take a cruise to Puerto Rico and uncover this wonderful and accessible gem for yourself.

Carabalí Rainforest Adventure Park

Just outside the lush extravagance of El Yunque Rainforest, Hacienda Carabali is a tourist complex with something for every member of the family, from young to old. From go-karts and ATVs to horses and ponies to ride, it’s essentially a natural amusement park that delves into the rich atmosphere of El Yunque to provide thrills and excitement. One of the best elements of the park is the Rio Mameyes, a truly delightful spot for a dip in the cool, fresh water of the river. Alongside the attractions there are souvenir shops and restaurants, allowing families to spend the whole day here. 

Coqui Water Park

As a Caribbean island, it isn’t surprising that many of Puerto Rico’s best attractions are based around the water. Coqui Water Park is a riot of water slides, pools, and wave machines, and makes a fantastic option for families who want to cool off from the tropical heat. 

Olimpia Water Park

The Olimpia Water Park is actually a self-contained section of the Albergue Olimpico sports center, and it is one of the best spots in Puerto Rico for family-friendly fun. It offers a variety of slides and wave pools, as well as the only kid-friendly water racers on the island. The atmosphere at the park is charming, designed to mimic the nearby beaches, and it is a great place to relax for most of the day. Best of all, your entry pass gives access to the entire sports center, so older members of the family can enjoy the olympic pool, the tennis courts, and the gym.

Arroyo’s Surfing Park

As its name suggests, the main attraction at Arroyo’s Surfing Park is the thrilling WaveOZ FlowRider surf simulator. This innovative ride (the only example in Puerto Rico) lets you hit up waves and breaks in the comfort of the water park itself, and is a fantastic option for smaller surf tykes just getting to grips with their board. There are plenty of other attractions in the park too for those who aren’t keen on surfing, as well as an excellent cantina for parents to unwind in when the excitement gets too much!

Arecibo Lighthouse & Historical Park

Not your traditional theme park, Arecibo Lighthouse and Historical Park is dedicated to exploring the history of Puerto Rico in a fun yet educational way. It includes a replica Taino village, three Spanish conquistador ships (and a bonus pirate ship!), a playground, and the Pirate’s Lair, a cave where your children can explore the myths, legends, and realities of the Golden Age of Piracy in the West Indies. It is a fascinating alternative to the more adrenaline-packed thrills of a traditional amusement park, and will entertain your kids just as effectively!

 




Importance of a Home Security System for Your Family Safety

July 25, 2022 by

Moving into a new home is one of the most exciting things that you can do for your family. It requires a lot of careful planning and decision-making. Choosing the location, the price, and the look and feel of a home is a lot to cover. Once all of that is done, and people finally settle in their new home, they often relax and neglect one key element; their home security.

This is an essential part of any household for ensuring the safety of your home, possessions, and, most importantly, your beloved family. Good home security should include a few crucial components because there is more than one way for things to go bad. Luckily, a well-organised and comprehensive home security system should cover all of the potential issues. Here is an overview of why setting up a home security system is so important for your family’s safety.

Constant monitoring

One of the best ways to feel secure in your home is to have access to constant information on its security status. This is where installing security cameras can provide peace of mind for you and your family members. However, doing this will not only make you feel safer overall, but it will also allow you to do things that you might not have been able to do before.

This is especially useful for families who are constantly on the go and they frequently have to travel. The good thing is that the live-camera feed can keep your home safe even when you are not there. This goes hand in hand with other home security devices such as alarms and detectors, which can notify the emergency personnel if necessary. Along with this, it is useful to know that some local regulations might require you to have camera footage to verify an emergency event where an alarm was triggered before first responders can be dispatched.  

Stop burglars

A good way to stop burglaries is to prevent them in the first place by providing obvious signs of home security. You can use stickers, yard signs, and visibly-placed security cameras to let everyone know that you have full surveillance of the home. This has been found to significantly reduce crime rates associated with home invasions and burglaries, which are often founded on opportunism.

A study by Joe Kuhns, a professor from the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology, has found that nearly 60% of burglars plan their invasion attempts for less than 24 hours before the break-in. The first thing that they look for is whether the home is secured. That is why you have nothing to lose by clearly indicating that you have your home security systems in place.  

Prevent fires

Apart from burglaries, and home vandalizations, one of the most common threats also comes in the form of various external factors which cause fires. It has been found that nearly 25% of home insurance claims relating to damage caused by fires.

This is because all it takes is a small spark to ignite the entire household. Once there is a fire in your home, there is very little you can do before things get ugly and out of control. Quick reaction time is the crucial determining factor for preventing any significant damage. That is why most homes have smoke, heat, and fire detectors along with sound alarms to alert the homeowners. These alarms can also immediately notify your local fire department. Every second counts and you could potentially save your entire home if these essential home security devices are operating optimally.

Detect gases

In addition to fires, odorless gases can be quite deadly. The problem is that they are extremely difficult to detect. This is especially true when your family is occupied minding their hectic daily activities. Gases can be dangerous in a multitude of ways; some of them are extremely poisonous, and yet they have no odor, so there is no way to tell until it’s already too late, and others are extremely flammable.

Carbon monoxide is one of the most common causes of poisoning for tens of thousands of people each year. The problem is that symptoms look like common flu and are often misdiagnosed for this very reason. That is why installing a carbon monoxide detector is an essential part of any home security system.

Optimise your insurance

Implementing a home security system doesn’t only ensure safety but also benefits your finances because most home insurers offer considerable discounts if you have a professional home security system installed.

 Moving into a new home is an immensely exhilarating thing to do with your family. Everything is so new and full of potential. Unfortunately, this is not the whole story. The fact is that most people overlook securing their homes with a good security system. This is important for several reasons; it allows for constant and remote home monitoring, it deters burglars and stops home trespassing, and it also prevents fires. In addition, it can help you detect dangerous odorless gases and save money on insurance premiums.

 




New 2022 Slot Machines

July 25, 2022 by

All new releases from different studios are united by stunning design, an exciting story, and a wide range of useful features. Microgaming, the award-winning software provider for the online gambling industry, is introducing a plethora of slots in 2022 that are already taking players on the most exciting adventure. 

1. 25,000 Talons from Alchemy Gaming

Alchemy Gaming has launched 25,000 Talons, a highly volatile slot with an impressive top prize potential of €500,000 in bonus form. Drawing inspiration from the wild nature of North America, the game offers many opportunities to trigger the free spins feature. Alongside black jack chart, it is considered to be one of the best games this year.

2. Vegas Cash by SpinPlay Games

Vegas Cash takes players to the glitzy Las Vegas Boulevard. Designed as a 5×3 grid, it features a double reel set, massive jackpot potential of 5,000x stake, medium variance, Copycash wilds to reward reel stacks, and many other surprises.

3. Gold Collector: Diamond Edition by All41 Studios

This is a slot with 5×4 reels, 50 pay lines, high variance, and the popular Link&Win mechanic. When three diamonds or coins land on the reels, the mechanic is activated, giving players the chance to win big cash prizes or a jackpot of up to 5,000x.

4. Fiona’s Fortune by Gold Coin Studios

Ireland-inspired Fiona’s Fortune slot from Gold Coin Studios supports Express Collect for instant prize potential, bonus wheel, magic pots of gold, and a lucky four-leaf clover leading to bonus spins.

5. Royal League Spin City Lux by Gong Gaming Technologies

Gong Gaming Technologies pays homage to fast cars and gems. The Royal League Spin City Lux takes place on a 5×3 reel and comes with 20 pay lines, bonus features, scatters, and many more symbols that can offer incredible rewards. It is also possible to roll the die on the bonus board and get up to x 10,000.

6. Wildfire Wins by Just for the Win

The device boasts wilds, Wildfire re-spins with sticky wilds, and a Wildfire Wheels bonus. Don’t forget to mention the special Wildfire Wheel Bonus, with which you can unlock even bigger prizes.

7. Magical Reels by Northern Lights Gaming

If you feel like casting spells and creating potions, then don’t miss the chance to try Magical Reels. When spellbooks land on the reels, prize multipliers or stars are collected to fill the symbol’s star meter. As soon as the counter is full, various surprises will be unlocked. Knockout symbols or more spell books to increase the potential by more than 10,000 times.

8. Dungeons and Diamonds by PearFiction Studios

This machine is a fantasy 5×5 slot with 40 lines, instant collection, multipliers, wilds, and many other features. It is worth highlighting that this slot machine has Wicked Wizard jackpots, one of which has an amazing win potential of up to 250,000 euros.

Why Are Microgaming Products Always in Demand?

The company has been operating since 1994 and has many licenses. It has solutions for land-based and online casinos, as well as bookmakers. In addition to the classic slots, the developer is engaged in creating machines with 3D graphics.

Brand software is considered to be one of the most reliable. The availability of licenses from the MGA and the UK Gambling Commission certifies that the company complies with the rules and provides quality services in the field of private entertainment.

Almost all online casinos use Microgaming as the main provider of gaming content. The manual offers more than 850 slots and unites 12 companies. What’s more, the brand’s new 4 gambling machines appear every month.

The company offers slots on various topics. In addition to the games based on the famous movies, the casino on the Microgaming platform has adventure-, fantasy-, detective-, and marine-themed games. Symbols of fruits, animals, famous people, and gods are used in many devices. The company pays special attention to the models in the search for treasures and artifacts.

Microgaming is one of the most important developers in the gambling market. It offers a large selection of video slots on various topics, actively creates models with 3D graphics, and constantly introduces new technologies. The company’s products are in demand among casinos and customers, as evidenced by numerous reviews. Microgaming can be found in almost all gaming establishments. Therefore, new releases for Microgaming are also reliable and interesting.

 




How Grandparents Can Go About Saving for their Grandchildren’s Future

July 16, 2022 by

For some overly financial health-conscious grandparents, simply saving for their children’s future is not enough. Upon reaching their retirement years, certain grandparents wish to make it a priority to begin putting money away for their grandchildren out of financial need or out of good old generosity. 

But despite making saving for the grandkids a priority, retired grandparents aged 62 and older might find that they simply don’t have enough cash on hand to make it possible. This is where a reverse mortgage loan could come in quite handy. If the retired grandparents don’t plan on moving out of the family home they’ve been paying the mortgage on for decades, they can tap into all that equity they’ve built up. 

If approved for a reverse mortgage, they can potentially collect up to a six-figure sum or more in one lump sum payment, or they can take it in monthly disbursements. The best part of this financial opportunity is they need never pay back the loan until they either leave the house or die. You can easily find out how much of a reverse mortgage you qualify for based on this calculator. 

But what if you’re a grandparent who hasn’t yet reached retirement age and who is, in fact, quite a few years away from 62 years old? How can you go about saving for your grandchild or grandchildren’s future? 

According to a new report, it’s generally believed that most grandparents enjoy helping their grandchildren whenever possible. Some grandparents are the type to watch the grandkids while their parents are both working full-time jobs, and others feel that their role is better suited to help out financially.    

But it’s important to note that not all grandparents are in a position to help their grandchildren monetarily, especially in these hyperinflated times. Still, they feel the need to set at least something aside for the grandkid’s future.  

The reason will vary. Some grandparents had to struggle to pay for their education and for their first home. With that in mind, they wish to give their grandchildren “an easier start to their life.”

Still, others will see it as a priority to help their children and avoiding the massive burden of taking on the grandkid’s student loan debt. But no matter the reason, there are several good ways grandparents can go about saving for their grandchildren’s future. 

Here are just a few options you can look into right away. 

The Savings Account

This might sound overly simplified, but one of the most effective ways to save for your grandkids is to open a savings account on their behalf. But beware that the easiest choices for saving are not always the best choices. 

While placing money in an account for your grandchild will not decrease in terms of dollars, the interest rates on today’s savings accounts remain way below that of inflation. This means the purchasing power of the money you are saving today will decrease over the course of many years. 

If you decide to open a savings account at an FDIC-insured bank, you need to look for a “high-yield savings account.” 

CDs or Certificates of Deposit

Despite low-interest rates, you can get a higher return than a savings account by opening up a CD or certificate of deposit. In general CDs will give you a higher interest rate on your cash so long as you make a contractual promise that you will not be withdrawing the money for a specific period.  

CD terms are said to be as brief as a few months (or even a single month). But longer-term CDs will offer much higher interest rates. That said, you might not want to lock into a fixed rate long-term certificate of deposit if interest rates are rising. 

The Brokerage Account

The gutsy grandparent who is willing to withstand some risk for potentially much higher returns than a savings account and/or CD might wish to invest their cash into a brokerage account. By opening a brokerage account, you can invest for your grandchildren in bonds, ETFs, mutual funds, stocks, cryptos like Bitcoin, and other varieties of investments like real estate and precious metals. 

The best part about a brokerage account is that given time (ten years or more), brokerage-related investments will always “provide higher returns than savings accounts.” However, you must keep in mind that the money you invest could also lose some of its value, and this is why it’s important to maintain a diversified portfolio. 

But it if you’re investing in your grandchild’s future from the very beginning of his or her life, you have a full 18 years to go about investing before they require even a single dollar of what you’ve been putting away for their future. 

That’s a long time, and when it comes to investing, time is always on your side. 

 




How to Safely Pack and Move Your Extra Sports Gear

July 14, 2022 by

Almost all the families present out there have sports equipment or tools. There is always someone in a family who likes to play sports. If you are considering relocating your extra sports gear at the new home you must consider hiring out of state movers near me right away to keep these safe. If you not hiring movers then be sure you pack these safely to prevent any kind of damage because these items are quite expensive. If you are looking for a guide to transport these then have a look at this:

Plan everything at first

There is nothing worse than having to pack and move sports gear in a hurry because it always takes time. Proper planning and preparation are the keys to moving items with safety. Consider a few things like the budget for the upcoming relocation process, necessary packing supplies, size of the inventory, the distance required to travel, and so on. 

Clean all the equipment

It is important to clean all the equipment before moving them. This ensures that you don’t bring germs and bacteria with the items. Certain items such as towels and blankets should be washed before packing. Wipe down your yoga mats and also clean all the surfaces of the equipment you are going to relocate. Cleaning is important before you start packing the objects.

Measure these

This is an important step but most people skip this and end up finding themselves in big problems. Before relocating, you should envision the position of these in the new home, be sure the new home has enough space to keep them else bringing these along with you is not worthful. Just imagine that you face all the hurdles of packing the large stuff and you find yourself out of space when reached the new home. Where you will keep it then? So be sure you measure all the stuff at first.

Obtain the required supplies

Packing supplies and materials are required to keep items protected. Collect all the supplies such as the boxes, padding, packing foam, bubble wrap, and so on. Be sure you buy enough materials that are enough to transport items safely. Also consider getting moving equipment on rental such as dollies, moving blankets, trolleys, and so on. Moving delicate items such as sports gear can be done with the help of these items. Be sure you don’t give up on any important packing supply just to save a few bucks because this could lead to damage that you can’t even afford and increase moving related stress.

Dissemble

For complex machines and large equipment, dissembling items is great before packing these. You can easily pack dissembled small pieces instead of packing the large complex pieces. There are instructions and manuals present on the large sports machines that tell you how to assemble and disassemble these. So, it is time to read out these and have to follow the instructions. If you don’t want to take any risk then be sure you take the help of the professionals to do the job.

Packing

Now it is time to pack them actually. Get a moving box, place the items inside it and then get enough supplies over it to keep it protected. Make sure there is no space left inside the box to move during transportation. Provide enough padding inside boxes. Also, be sure these heavy items do not cause damage to the other items.

Time taken

You will need a couple of days to handle only this part of the entire relocation process therefore it is recommended you start the process earlier. The process is harder than it actually looks therefore be sure you prepare yourself physically as well as mentally before you embark on this toughest part of relocation. Give yourself enough time and if possible then take the help of the professionals.

Relax and take care

Now you have done the difficult part which means packing and moving the job so it is time to get relaxed because everything will be just fine and you will be able to transport items without causing any damage.

Wrapping it all up!!!

Extreme sports gear offers you safety when you try the adrenaline-rushing activities. Many sports equipment is fragile in nature and require handling safely during the transportation process. Be sure you secure everything perfectly before allowing these to be transported. Stay organized and start with a good strategy in your hands so you don’t find yourself in any problems later on.

 




Is It Safe for Kids to Be Passengers on a Motorcycle

July 14, 2022 by

Riding motorcycles is a hobby and even a passion for people of all ages and backgrounds. According to research, there is a growing number of people who own motorcycles, including female riders. 

Since many families own a motorcycle, it also means that it’s more common to see kids on the back. 

However, you do have to decide if it’s safe for a child to be a passenger on a motorcycle and, if so, what you need to do as a parent to make sure you’re following the rules.

What Are the Laws?

In many states, there aren’t any minimum age requirements to ride a motorcycle as a passenger. To legally operate a motorcycle, most states say that young people have to be at least 16, just like driving a car. 

Interestingly, in many states, there are laws that require children under a certain age are in the right safety restrain system when they’re in a car, yet this doesn’t apply to motorcycles. 

While there aren’t necessarily many laws dictating when a child can ride on a motorcycle, there are other requirements that should be met. The Motorcycle Handbook lists the requirements as proper precautions, which is what any motorcycle passenger should follow, especially kids. 

The precautions for a child passenger include a motorcycle that has a passenger seat and footrests. The passenger should be able to comfortably reach the footrests, and passengers should always wear a snug-fitting, federally approved helmet. Children should also wear durable but comfortable clothing, including long pants, a thick jacket, and closed-toe shoes. 

Getting the Right Helmet

If you’re going to have your child as a passenger on a motorcycle, the proper helmet is one of the most important things to make sure you have. 

The helmet needs to fit properly. A child should not be wearing a helmet for adults. If the helmet is too large, it’s very likely that if you are in a crash, it will come off. 

The helmet needs to fit snugly, even though this means your child will outgrow it faster. The helmet should have full coverage as well as a chin-bar. If the helmet doesn’t have a face shield, your child should wear goggles. 

What About a Leather Jacket?

Wearing a leather jacket on a motorcycle isn’t to look the part. Leather jackets are important for protection. 

There are kids riding jackets available, and while they can be expensive, the protection they provide is likely worth it. Kids need at a minimum a tough jacket made of rugged material. 

Retention Solutions

Your child can’t be put in front of you to ride—that’s incredibly dangerous. If you are going to ride with a child as a passenger, they can fall off when they’re sitting behind you. A child can fall asleep on a longer ride, which increases the chances of falling off. A child can also be flung off following a maneuver for quick avoidance. 

If a child has small hands and their arms are short, it’s going to be tough for them to hold onto the rider. 

There are a lot of stories about motorcycles that didn’t crash, but children were still ejected from them. 

There are some aftermarket solutions that can help with this issue. 

For example, there are belts for riders that have passenger handholds. 

If you have a kid on the younger side, they might not be able to remember to hold on, so in this case, there are harnesses that go over a child’s waist and shoulders and between their legs so they can’t wiggle out. 

There are quick-release buckles on these harnesses that a child can’t release. Then, the harness attaches to a foam pad with grips like a handlebar. There’s a belt that attaches to the front of the pad and then goes around the waist of the rider, securing the child to them. 

Following the Rules of the Road

Whether you have a young passenger or not, following the rules of the road is critical for safety on a motorcycle. You need to make sure you comply not only with local laws but also with best practices for riding a motorcycle safely. 

Your child should have an understanding of basic safety skills before riding with you as well. 

Having a child as a passenger on a motorcycle inherently has more risks than putting a child in a car. If you do decide to do it, you need to take every available precaution to make it as safe as you can. 

 




5 Common Types Of Cancer As We Age

July 12, 2022 by

Cancer refers to the uncontrolled growth of cells in the body. When left unchecked, these cells can spread to other body parts and cause serious health problems. 

There are many different types of cancer, but some are more common than others. Here are five of the most common types of cancer that people often experience as they age.

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women. 50% of breast cancer is diagnosed in women over 65 years of age, and it usually begins as a lump in the breast that may be painless. 

Other symptoms of breast cancer include a change in the size or shape of the breast, discharge from the nipple, and a change in the appearance of the skin on the breast. If you notice any of these signs, make sure to see a doctor right away.

Unfortunately, breast cancer can also occur in men. However, it is much less common than in women. The symptoms in men are often the same as those experienced by women, and the only risk factors seem to be Klinefelter syndrome and BRCA mutations.

Risk factors for breast cancer in women include a family history of the disease, early onset of menstruation, later age at first childbirth, and obesity. All of these increase the breast’s exposure to estrogen, which is a hormone that leads to breast growth. If this growth becomes abnormal, you get cancer.

Fortunately, breast cancer can be screened for and treated before it spreads to other parts of the body. This is done through a combination of regular breast exams, mammograms, and ultrasounds. 

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer in men. It usually begins as a small growth in the prostate gland, which is located just below the bladder. The prostate gland produces semen, so prostate cancer can cause problems with urination, sexual function, and fertility.

Prostate cancer is most common in older men, and the risk factors include a family history of the disease and genetic conditions like Lynch syndrome. African-American men are also at an increased risk.

There is no sure way to prevent prostate cancer, but you can lower your risk by eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting regular checkups. If you have any symptoms of prostate cancer, such as difficulty urinating or pain in the pelvis, make sure to see a doctor right away.

Treatment options for prostate cancer have evolved significantly over the years, with the introduction of targeted therapies such as abiraterone acetate. However, one of the challenges in treating prostate cancer is the high cost of medications, including abiraterone acetate. This Abiraterone Acetate Price Calculator is a valuable tool for patients and healthcare professionals to estimate medication costs and plan for treatment.

Your doctor will screen you for prostate cancer with a digital rectal exam and a prostate-specific antigen test. If cancer is found, it will be treated with surgery, radiation, or hormone therapy.

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer in both men and women. It is cancer that begins in the colon or the rectum, and it often has no symptoms in the early stages. This is why screenings are so important, as The Centre for Gastrointestinal Health explains.

Screenings for colorectal cancer usually begin at age 50, but if you have a family history of the disease, you may need to start earlier. The screening test involves a colonoscopy, which is when a doctor inserts a small camera into the rectum to look for any abnormal growths (called polyps).

If polyps are found, they will be removed and tested for cancer. If cancer is found, it will be treated with surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.

When symptoms do arise due to colorectal cancer, they consist of blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, and weight loss. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention. 

You can lower your risk of colorectal cancer by eating a low-fat, high-fiber diet, cutting down on alcohol and smoking, losing weight, and getting regular screenings. 

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in both men and women. It is most often caused by smoking, but exposure to secondhand smoke, radon gas, asbestos, and air pollution can also increase your risk.

Symptoms of lung cancer include a cough that does not go away, shortness of breath, unexplained exhaustion, chest pain, and coughing up blood. If you have any of these symptoms, see a doctor right away.

Just like prostate cancer, there is no sure way to prevent lung cancer, but quitting smoking is the best thing you can do. Some things you can do to quit smoking include:

  • Making a plan to quit
  • Identifying your triggers
  • Choosing a date to quit
  • Telling your friends and family about your decision
  • Getting rid of all cigarettes and ashtrays in your house
  • Avoiding places where people smoke
  • Staying busy when you get the urge to smoke

There are also medical drugs that can help you quit smoking. These drugs target nicotine addiction and can make it easier to quit.

Unfortunately, we don’t have a screening test for lung cancer as we have for prostate and breast cancer. This is why lung cancer is the number one killer when it comes to cancer.

If you are diagnosed with lung cancer, treatment will depend on the stage of cancer and your overall health. Treatment options generally include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. It is caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning beds.

There are two main types of skin cancer: melanoma and non-melanoma. Melanoma is the more serious type of skin cancer and can be fatal if not caught early. Non-melanoma skin cancers are less serious and are usually treated successfully.

Symptoms of skin cancer include new or changing moles, dark, patchy spots on the skin, and open sores that don’t heal. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. 

The best way to prevent skin cancer is to avoid exposure to UV rays. This means wearing sunscreen, staying in the shade, and wearing protective clothing when you are outdoors. You should also avoid using tanning beds.

If you are diagnosed with skin cancer, treatment will depend on the type of cancer and how advanced it is. Treatment usually involves removing cancer from the skin.

 




I’m a Mom With ADHD: Here is How I Manage

July 12, 2022 by

  

Growing up in the 1990s, you probably heard about ADHD in passing. It was a diagnosis almost always assigned to boys, treated with stimulants and surrounded by a negative stigma as with most mental health conditions. For a long time, it was thought to be a condition of childhood that we would outgrow as we reached adulthood. An expanded understanding of ADHD teaches us that it couldn’t be further from the truth. 

New studies have found that if one or more children are diagnosed with ADHD, it’s highly likely that at least one parent also lives with the condition. Contrary to popular belief, Dad does not always carry those genetics. I’m a mom with ADHD. If you’re in the same boat, here’s how I manage. 

ADHD Looks Different in Girls

We tend to picture an ADHD diagnosis as a young child who can’t sit still in class and who struggles with focus and might not do well in school because of it. These symptoms might be typical of ADHD in boys, but in girls, they can present entirely differently. Rather than being hyperactive like their male counterparts, ADHD presents as being inattentive. We spend time daydreaming and might have trouble paying attention, but since we lack the titular hyperactivity often used to diagnose ADHD, we are often overlooked as children. 

Girls with ADHD are also more likely to be diagnosed with anxiety or depression. They may struggle with self-esteem and have a higher chance of turning to self-harm. 

How I Manage With My ADHD

Managing as an adult with ADHD isn’t easy, but once you know what you’re up against, it’s easier to craft a plan of attack. Here are a few things that have worked well to help me manage my ADHD. 

Building a Routine

I get it — life can be downright chaotic at times. When you’re managing calendars for multiple people and may need to develop the ability to teleport to make sure everyone makes it to school, work, appointments, rehearsals and practices on time, setting up a routine might seem like an impossible task. In reality, having my routine in place has been a lifesaver for managing my ADHD. 

I have a list of things I need to accomplish to start my day correctly. They might not have to happen in the same order or at the same time, but I need to complete all these tasks before I can jump into any other tasks. The same goes for my evening routine. I must complete these tasks before I can wind down for the night. If you don’t already have a routine in place, start by taking small steps. Adopt one new task at a time. Trying to change too much about your routine could be overwhelming. 

Break Down Tasks Into Manageable Bites

How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time. If you’re trying to tackle a huge job, start by breaking it down into more manageable steps. For example, let’s say that Sunday is your chore day. You’ve got a list of things you need to do on Sunday because you work the rest of the week and it’s your only day off. Trying to take on the entire list can be incredibly overwhelming. For someone with ADHD, getting overwhelmed can lead to shutting down. You’ve got so much to do that you don’t know where to start, so you give up, and nothing gets done. 

Back to your chore list, start by breaking it down by room. Then, look at the tasks for each room and break them down into even smaller tasks. The bathroom chore list for a neurotypical person might look something like this: 

  • Clean sink
  • Scrub toilet. 
  • Scrub shower
  • Hang fresh towels

It seems pretty straightforward until you sit down and think of all the steps that go into each task. For me, the bathroom chore list looks something like this.

  • Clean counter
  • Move toothbrushes
  • Spray sink with cleaner
  • Scrub sink
  • Rinse
  • Put toothbrushes back.
  • Spray toilet with cleaner
  • Scrub toilet
  • Flush. 
  • Spray shower with cleaner.
  • Scrub shower
  • Rinse.
  • Move dirty towels to the laundry
  • Hang fresh towels
  • Empty trash. 

It seems like a lot, but each of these tasks is small and easy to complete, so the entirety of the chore list doesn’t seem so overwhelming. Yes, my Sunday chores might have dozens of to-dos, but each is small enough that I can manage them without too much trouble.

Recognizing My Limits

This challenge might not have much to do with my ADHD diagnosis, but I tend to be a perpetual people pleaser. I say yes when I should say no and take on more tasks than I have the energy to handle because I don’t want to be a disappointment. Instead of recognizing my limits and sticking to my boundaries, I would blow right past them and push myself into burnout. 

Learn how to recognize your limits. Know when you need to step away, even if it’s just for a few minutes to recharge. Don’t let people stomp on your boundaries. 

Staying Organized

One of the most challenging things to manage with ADHD is our problems with object permanence. Out of sight, out of mind takes on a literal meaning for us. If we put something away in a drawer, box or safe place to ensure that we don’t lose it, you can almost guarantee that we’ll never find it or think about it again. We also have a habit of creating ‘doomboxes’ — repositories for everything we have no other place. These boxes, drawers or cubbies will accumulate items that we’ll forget about, again due to that issue with object permanence.

Staying organized is one of the biggest challenges for people with ADHD. You don’t need to spend much money on coordinated storage boxes or other supplies. Sometimes, something as simple as taking the doors off your cabinets so you can see what you have can help make organization a little easier. 

You’re Not Alone

Living as an adult with ADHD might seem impossible. We’re in a world built for and by neurotypicals. We must mask our symptoms to fit in; even then, we tend to stand out. If you take nothing else away from this article, remember this — you are not alone. There are others out there that share your struggles. 

 




Keeps These Tips in Mind Before You Clean Your House Again

July 12, 2022 by


Cleaning your home makes you more relaxed and impresses your guests. Having an efficient cleaning routine is essential. So, here are some tips to keep in mind before you start. 

Work Smarter Cleaning can sometimes feel like a hassle. Instead of working harder, find ways to make things easier. For example, use a cordless electric scrubber. This tool can help you clean the bathroom with minimal effort. 

You can use the extendable feature to prevent reaching over large tubs. Also, look for multipurpose cleaning supplies, such as all-purpose products. 

1. Use the Total Method

This is where you do the same task, such as dusting, for every room. It can make the cleaning process more efficient. The total method prevents you from repeating the same task, saving you time. It also reduced the need to switch cleaning tools constantly.

Make sure to tidy up the entire house at once, not just a few rooms. This saves time and energy in the long run. Pick a day you don’t have much going on so you can devote plenty of time to the job.

2. Dust With the Right Tools

Dusting is essential to improve your indoor air quality-especially for those with allergies. Dust particles collect over time and can irritate your throat and eyes. They also give germs and bacteria more places to hide. Dust your floors, furniture, mattress and surfaces. 

Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down tabletops, counters and bookshelves. Find dusters with ridged edges to trap tiny dust bunnies. When cleaning, work from the top down.

3. Use the Power of Scrubbing 

Use cleaning solutions and some elbow grease to clean bathroom or kitchen tile. This scrubbing method can remove dirt and grime. You may need to do a bit of extra work for stubborn grout found between tiles.

 First, buy a product specifically designed to remove grout. You could also check online reviews to ensure it’s a quality cleaner. Then purchase a drill bit for motorized scrubbing. You’ll want to attach the scrubber to your drill and wash away grime. This trick can save you time and effort, making the task less like a chore. 

4. Keep Your Toilet Clean

Cleaning your toilet prevents bacteria build-up and unpleasant odors. Mix baking soda with essential oils and let it sit in the bowl for a little. Then you can scrub using a bowl brush before flushing. 

Natural ingredients are also better for the environment. Store-bought cleaning supplies can have toxic chemicals. Make sure to clean the outside of the toilet with disinfectant products, such as wipes. Wipe down the tank, handle, lid and seat sides.

 

5. Remember to Clean Your Dishwasher

Many people may forget this spot. It may seem like the dishwasher just cleans itself, but it could lead to potential mold growth. The damp environment and food particles help mold spores thrive. To clean it, run an empty cycle on dry-heat to wash out the interior. 

You can also use bleach any especially dirty areas. Suppose you notice mold in the silverware basket. Let it soak in the sink with warm water and bleach and rinse thoroughly. 

6. Make Sure to Clean Your Drains 

Cleaning your drains can save you from costly repairs in the future. In fact, a clogged drain can cost around $150 to fix. To keep your drains protected, pour baking soda and vinegar down the drain. Then let it fizzle before flushing it down with hot water. This method will remove grime, which could prevent clogs. 

Also, use drain enzyme cleaners that are good for the environment. They have chemicals that reduce particle build-up and protect your entire plumbing system. 

7. Wash Your Cleaning Tools 

Remember, your cleaning tools can get dirty too. So, clean these before getting started. Use warm water and soap to remove dirt and dust from scrapers and brushes. For tougher stains, you can add chlorine bleach. 

Make sure you store your supplies properly after cleaning. For example, keep your broom with the bristles to maintain their proper shape. You could spend more time cleaning if you don’t do this step. Plus, you could be adding more grime to your surfaces unintentionally. 

8. Tidy Up Your Bed

A messy bed can make the whole space seem messy. So, try tucking the sheets and making the bed. It’s also an excellent time to wash your sheets to remove germs. Consider washing your sheets at least once per week. You could also switch to a removable cover for less hassle.

Making your bed can also impress your guests when you give them a house tour. Plus, who doesn’t love sinking into freshly cleaned sheets at the end of the day?

9. Empty Your Dishwasher Each Morning 

Emptying your dishwasher each morning can save you the hassle of unloading a larger load. It also ensures dirty dishes don’t pile up in your sink or counter. The leftover food can attract bacteria and create unpleasant odors.

Empty your dishwasher while your coffee is brewing or you’re waiting for your kids to get dressed for school.  

Cleaning Tips

Cleaning is part of maintaining a home. Using the right tools and methods, you can make the process more efficient. Keep these tips in mind before your next spring cleaning day.

The many benefits of having a professional clean your home are far-reaching and diverse. Professional house cleaning services can provide a clean, organized and inviting living space with precious time saved. From dust free furniture to spotless window sills and baseboards, professional cleaning companies can provide deep top-to-bottom cleaning services as well as other specialized surface cleaner solutions that may be necessary to keep your home looking neat throughout the year. Shine Bright MV House Cleaning, tisbury ma is an award-winning, family-owned and -operated business providing top quality residential and commercial cleaning services in Tisbury, MA, and the surrounding areas.

 




How to Make the Right Choice: PODS vs. Moving Company

July 11, 2022 by

Sooner or later, all of us have to deal with relocation, be it a job offer, downsizing, or getting a better home in a new city or state, and get confused with various moving services available in the market. PODS vs. movers – what is the best solution for you? Probably, you’ve heard from friends or colleagues how much they paid to a full-service moving company and the amount impressed you, so you give a thought to a DIY move. Often recommended online portable containers seem a budget-friendly variant but there are some pitfalls though.

To make up your mind, scrutinize advantages and disadvantages of two methods: moving yourself or hiring movers.

PODS vs Movers

Having decided to move, you face multiple tasks and choices. You need to sort out when and how to move. As of now, moving containers (i.e., PODS or similar options) are popular and often asked-for. They are pretty affordable and offer maximum versatility in terms of a moving schedule. Yet still, lower pricing includes higher involvement and heavier workload in comparison to specialized full-service companies that promise clients seamless and stress-free experience.

Renting a Moving Container

PODS offers its customers 8-, 12-, or 16-foot portable units to choose from. You select a required size, next – a container is delivered to the specified place (your current address), then you fill it; later, the company will redeliver the unit to your new location or keep it for a specified time (short- or long-term storage). PODS containers are suitable for both residential and office moves.

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PODS units represent an affordable variant for small-size local moves. As a case in point, moving a 1-bedroom apartment 500 miles will cost between $1,500 and $1,700.

Unfortunately, for longer distances, PODS do not seem inexpensive. Let’s say, to move 1,500 miles a 2-bedroom home for a family of three will cost around $8,300. The price is comparable to moving companies’ rates. Add here amounts you have to outlay on packing materials and efforts on packing the stuff, carrying and loading/unloading a portable container. If you don’t feel like doing the hard work, it’s more than likely that you will need moving assistants. As a result, total costs may exceed the flat rate of full-service movers.

The good thing is that you can cancel service anytime (a day before the scheduled unit delivery) and receive a full refund.

Pros:

  • PODS containers provide freedom for planning and organizing a move
  • PODS units are often used for storage
  • Inexpensive option for a DIY move or storage
  • NO-fee cancellation

Cons:

  • There is no mobile app to reserve a PODS container
  • You should have enough space in front of the home (along with the building or homeowners association permission) for a container
  • It is complicated to choose the right volume of a container
  • PODS might be a costly option if you travel long-distance
  • Moving to a new home might take far more time

How Do Moving PODS Work?

The company delivers a movable container so that you can use the unit for storage or relocation. Later, you can schedule a pickup time and specify the re-delivery date to a new place. Once you’ve finished unloading the portable container, the service provider picks up the unit. This way you have much greater freedom within the frame of the moving timeline.

PODS, a transportation and storage business, is headquartered in Florida but operates in 46 states as well as in Australia, the UK, and Canada. Actually, moving containers are used for DIY moves but PODS has a large network of moving partners (third-party service providers) so that customers can hire packing or loading assistants. The target customers are those who need to cut moving costs and can pack and load their stuff.

Note: If you live in a compound or apartment building, make sure that building rules allow using portable containers. The same applies if you have shared driveways — homeowners associations sometimes restrict placing portable containers next to your home.

The company charges for storage units on a monthly basis. If you need PODS for moving, you will also be charged shipping fees, unit delivery and redelivery fees. The rates of renting a movable unit-container start from $149/h, and delivery fees depend on the total distance and start from $75. In case of short-distance moves, the company bills a day before the unit delivery, and redelivery dates. In case of long-distance relocation, billing is divided into three parts with each one charged a week before the service. You can use the PODS online calculator to estimate moving or storage fees for your unique situation.

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Another challenge is choosing the right size of a PODS unit. No one wants to get frustrated in the middle of the loading realizing that the chosen container isn’t large enough to fit all your stuff. On the contrary, competent moving companies provide pre-move estimation and select the right size of a truck. Besides, an experienced crew can use the space efficiently, and you don’t pay for air (empty space) transportation.

Hiring Movers

A trustworthy full-service moving company takes care of all aspects of your planned relocation, from A to Z. Signing a contract with professional movers is the most efficient and least stressful way to move your house or apartment. Qualified and experienced staff will save your time and effort during the entire moving process. Moving companies perform an estimation of your move size, select the right size of the truck, and decide on how many movers are required in your unique situation. Additionally, all packing supplies are delivered to your place, and pros will pack all your belongings much faster than when you would do it on your own. Reputable companies are fully equipped for the job and use special pods to protect floors and dollies for loading/unloading the truck.

Full-service movers provide the following services:

– Free in-person or virtual estimation

– Packing supplies and tools

– Packing and unpacking services

– Disassembling and reassembling furniture

– Loading and unloading a truck

– Discarding used materials after your stuff is unpacked

– Basic insurance coverage

Pros:

· Movers execute all the physical work

· Full-service moving companies provide all required packing materials and tools

· Relocation takes less time

· Fragile items receive special packing and attention

· Relocation to a new home with full-service movers is less stressful than a DIY move.

Cons:

· Moving services can be quite costly.

· You need to arrange and schedule all stages of your move with a selected moving company

· Potential hidden costs and all sorts of moving scams. As in any industry, you should be aware of scams and dishonest movers who announce rates without virtual or in-person estimation and require an upfront payment. Professional movers offer a free estimation of your move-size and provide their licenses and certificates upon your request.

How to Hire Movers

First of all, plan your move, including minor details, in advance. Once you have decided to relocate, take your time, make a cup of coffee, and do thorough research. Based on available customer reviews, recommendations, and rates, select two or three moving companies. Nowadays, most professional movers have online calculators and offer free in-person estimation of your move. Customer service plays a vital role in making your move stress-free. Discuss the details of the move, such as schedule, special requirements, moving size, and costs, with a company’s representative.

Note that the moving industry has high and low seasons. In summer moving services are in high demand; hence, rates are typically higher (peak dates are usually at the end of every month and on weekends), and reputable movers can be fully booked. If possible, plan your move for the winter or spring months — rates are usually lower.

Final thoughts

Ok, the decision is up to you. Let’s reason: moving containers usually save you money in case of short-distance and local moves, but you should be ready for the hard work that awaits you in this case. Besides additional expenses on all packing supplies, including various types of boxes, pads, tape, labels, wrapping materials, blankets, etc., you are responsible to pack everything, then load and unload the storage unit, and later again unpack all things which you have carefully packed.

Obviously, a full-service moving company frees you from the headache and hard work associated with moving to a new place. Surely, pros save your precious energy and time, which you can dedicate to more pleasant and useful activities. As in any industry, professional services cost more than a DIY move.

Take time to weigh all the variants and get free online quotes from reputable moving companies prior to making the final decision.

FAQ

What is a moving pod?

PODS stands for Portable On Demand Storage. In other words, it is a movable container. Initially, PODS was founded in 1998 by Peter Warhurst as a part of a family storage business. Peter invented PODS containers and a hydraulic system for fast delivery and transportation of units.

Is it cheaper to use pods or a moving company?

PODS containers will be a cheaper option for short-distance local moves. However, PODS costs for long-distance, particularly interstate moves, are almost equal to full-service movers’ rates. Add here that with PODS you will be responsible (or have to hire an additional crew) for packing and loading/unloading.

Are pods good for moving?

PODS containers are versatile: you are more flexible with the timeline because you can load them and use containers for moving to your new home or keep them as storage for your belongings. Sometimes people use PODS containers for storing things during a home renovation.

Are pods safe for moving?

PODS units are equipped with locking latches, built-in tie-downs, and locks with keys to ensure the safety and security of the stored items. As PODS states, units are manufactured from durable materials (steel and aluminum) and can withstand winds up to 110 mph. Clients also can follow the status of their orders via online accounts.




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