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Modern Men Outdoors: The 6 Coolest Camping Gadgets Sure to Impress Your Friends

Modern Men Outdoors: The 6 Coolest Camping Gadgets Sure to Impress Your Friends

We could all stand to spend a little more time outdoors. Time in the wilderness, can lower stress, make us more creative, and even help our mental health.

But sometimes a walk in the woods alone won't cut it.

From the long days hiking and fishing to the relaxing scent of a freshly-built campfire, camping is one of the best ways to spend time with the special people in your life.

Before you plan your trip and pack up, make sure you'll be the envy of your camp by checking out these six awesome camping gadgets.

1. Lifesaver Bottle

Getting dehydrated in the wilderness can be dangerous. Dehydration can result in a myriad of awful symptoms including diarrhea, fainting, and confusion.

To keep your camping trip as safe as it is fun, you'll need to drink enough water to fuel your body.

With that said, camping near natural water sources, such as springs or lakes can be iffy. Natural water contains harmful chemicals that can are dangerous to the body.
Keep yourself safe and satiated with a LifeSaver water bottle.

These awesome bottles come with a built-in filter, so you can drink from any water source without worry. You can even add some lemon to help burn off those extra calories from your s'mores.

2. Sparkr

Mankind's ability to make fire may have ensured our survival as a species. However, not everyone is great at building campfires.

That's where this cool camping gear comes in!

The Sparkr is a three-in-one multitool that includes an LED flashlight, a plasma lighter, and lantern, so you can stay warm and see where you're going without overcrowding your backpack.

3. Rhinowolf Attachable Super-Tent

As cozy as sleeping in a tent can be, they don't offer much in terms of space. Until now, at least!

The RhinoWolf Attachable Super-Tent is the perfect shelter for families, large groups, or anyone who wants to make their own mansion in the middle of nature.

Each tent snaps together in seconds and only weighs a few pounds.

Tents also come with built-in padding, so you can stretch out and sleep easy. If that isn't enough, head over to 4WD Supacentre for an affordable yet comfortable portable mattress.

4. A Smart First Aid Kit

First aid kits were always a must for camping, but now medical kits come with a 21st-century twist.

If someone in your group is injured, open your smart first aid kit, answer a few questions, and patch up yourself or your friend.

These one-of-a-kind camper accessories are a great way to keep everyone safe, even if no one in your group has medical experience.

5. The GoBoat

For the camper who loves fishing but hates dragging their boat out to the lake, the GoBoat is the perfect solution.

GoBoat is a minuscule, inflatable boat that offers all of the functionality of your standard fishing boat without any of the hassles.

6. A Solar Shower

The best camping gear should be more than cool -- it should be practical. And solar showers certainly fit the mold.

After a long day of spending time in the wild, unwind and scrub off the grime with a shower that heats your water using the sun's rays.

It's eco-friendly, affordable, and portable!

Snag These Awesome Camping Gadgets for a Better Camping Experience

No camping trip is complete without great gear, and these camping gadgets are must-haves for anyone who loves spending time outdoors.

Want to feel good about your camping trip? Check out these seven ways you can encourage a cleaner, greener environment while camping.

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10 Reasons Why You Should Get Your Baby Baptized–Even If You Are Not Religious

10 Reasons Why You Should Get Your Baby Baptized--Even If You Are Not Religious

As a new parent, you’ve done all sorts of research on how to give your baby the best of everything.

You know which crib to buy, your parenting style, and you’ve even studied up on how to make your own baby food.

One thing you’ve neglected?

The spiritual side of your child’s life. After all, you’ve never exactly been the religious type.

But even if you’re not a person of faith, we think you should still consider getting your child baptized.

Why?

Keep on reading this post to find out.

From having a great excuse to dress up and take photos to reconnect with your own beliefs, you might be surprised by all that baptism can offer you.

1. It’s a Photo Opportunity

Why are babies baptized?

Traditionally, it’s so their souls can make it into heaven when they pass away. Especially as a baby can’t yet decide if they’d like to become a member of the church, parents baptize their child to ensure that they will go to heaven.

It’s also a way to show Churches that you have a strong commitment to your faith.

But what if you’re not the religious type?

Then we suggest getting your baby baptized because it’s an awesome photo opportunity.

The truth is that we all feel as though we just can’t take too many photos of our children. And they’ll only be small for so long. This is an especially great photo opportunity as members of your family, friends, and your community will be present.

Think of it as the baby equivalent of the wedding photo set.

2. You Can Name a Godparent

Deciding if a baby getting baptized is really the route you want to go down?

If so, consider it as an opportunity to publicly name a godparent.

Godparents are people that promise to take in your baby if something happens to you. But even if you and your partner live long and happy lives (and we’re sure you will!) there are other reasons to name a godparent.

Godparents play a vital role in a child’s upbringing. They can answer questions that a child might not feel comfortable asking their own parents. They offer guidance and different perspectives to your child. They can even take on babysitting duty when you just need a night off.

3. It’s a Reason for a Family Gathering

When was the last time you had all of your family together in one place?

Even during holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving, it can be tough to arrange everyone’s schedules.

But everyone is always eager to see a baby–so consider a baptism a kind of family reunion. It’s an awesome way to reconnect with relatives you haven’t seen in a while.

Just make sure you create a seating chart to keep relatives that don’t exactly see eye-to-eye apart.

4. It Puts Religious Relatives at Ease

Why do babies get baptized?

Sometimes, it’s just to help keep peace in the family.

Even if you’re not religious yourselves, the truth is that there are people in your family who probably are. Some of them may even be a bit more devout than you’re comfortable with.

While we’d never encourage you to do something that goes against your beliefs, consider getting your baby baptized if doing so isn’t a big deal to you, but really matters to another relative.

It’s much better than having to hear them worry about your baby’s soul at every family gathering for the rest of your life.

5. You’ll Get Insight into What You Want for Your Child

We know that you’ve already given some serious thought to your parenting goals, styles, and what you’d like for your child’s future.

But during the baptism process, you’ll often have the chance to explore these issues on a much deeper level. You might even encounter new questions that you’d never even given much thought to before.

These don’t just have to do with your child’s spiritual development. You and your partner can discuss roles and responsibilities. You can even get insight from a spiritual leader about what works and what doesn’t.

You don’t have to be religious to see the benefits of good communication.

6. You Tap into Your Local Community

About half of all Americans say that they go to church with regularity, anywhere from every week to a few times per month.

Especially if you’ve just moved to a new city, the truth is that the church is a great place to meet people. Even if you’re not religious, you might be surprised by how genuinely accepting people that go to church can be.

In other words?

The fire and brimstone days are long gone.

Many churches support gay marriage and adoption, a woman’s right to choose and other issues that many people assume are too “controversial” for the church.

Don’t let your fear of being judged force you to miss out on connecting with an amazing and kind group of people. After all, it takes a village to raise a child. You’re going to need some help from your neighbors.

7. Two Words: Christening Outfit

Another reason to get your baby baptized?

Because it’s the perfect excuse to go all out on your baby’s christening outfit–and your own.

If you’re obsessed with all things fashion, then we know you’ll love the frills and lace associated with traditional christening outfits. Many people even have their child’s christening outfit made by a local designer.

This way, you can get exactly what you want.

Don’t be afraid to match outfits with your baby, either.

In closing: any time you have an opportunity to dress your baby in a bonnet, you should always take it. A baptism provides that opportunity.

8. Reconnect to Your Spirituality

OK, so it’s definitely been a while since you went to church.

While you’re not super sold on the idea of God, the truth is that you can see the benefit of spirituality.

Plus, you’d be lying if you said having a child didn’t make you rethink a few things when it comes to your faith. You feel like maybe you should give church another shot.

Even if you still don’t care for it, you’ll have your perspectives challenged and meet new people. And if you do like it? You’ve just found an awesome way to get back in touch with your spiritual side.

Getting a baby baptized is a great way to put your toe back into the waters of faith.

9. See the Support You Have

When you have a baby, it’s so easy to feel like you’re in this on your own.

Especially if you stay at home with your child, you can sometimes end up feeling seriously isolated. There’s something really special about being able to stand up in front of a room of people who support you.

In some cases, they may even be other parents who can empathize with you on a deeper level. Or, they could be people that don’t have kids but want to help you out in any way they can.

Baptism is a great reminder that you do have people you can ask for help when things get out of hand. You should take advantage of that.

10. “Just in Case”

At the end of the day, whether or not you believe in God, the fact of the matter is that none of us really know for sure.

When you have a child, you might be surprised to find that you’re giving your belief in the afterlife a closer look. You’re just not in a place where you’re willing to take any chances when it comes to your child’s soul.

Yes, it might sound a little bit silly, but the truth is that tons of parents baptize their children “just in case.” After all, better safe than sorry, especially when it comes to the afterlife.

Anything that helps you to keep your mind at ease as a new parent is always a smart move.

Thinking of Having Your Baby Baptized?

We hope that this post has helped you to decide whether or not having your baby baptized is something you’re interested in doing.

We think there’s no reason not to.

Even if you’re not a person of faith, there are tons of other ways that you can practice self-love and get in touch with your spiritual side.

No matter what you believe, we’re here to help you get the most out of every day.

From helping you to decide what to wear to sharing our favorite de-stress tips, keep checking back with us for more invaluable advice.

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8 Smart Home Addition Ideas That Will Increase Your Home’s Value

8 Smart Home Addition Ideas That Will Increase Your Home's Value

The financial value of a home addition is much different than the functional value we may place on it. We may value the addition for its ability to improve our lives, but that doesn’t mean it actually adds value to the price of your home.

So, if you want to add emotional, practical and financial value to your home, you need to make smart home addition decisions. The goal of home additions is not only to increase your square footage and liveable space but to also increase your home’s resale value.

If you plan on staying in your home forever, then whichever addition you choose will be a no-brainer. If you think you will sell your home eventually, however, then you need to make a smart home addition decision. A smart home addition takes into account the cost of the addition, the potential added value, and the marketability of the addition.

The goal is to make the addition appealing to the average buyer. The more appealing to the average buyer the more valuable the addition. Increased marketability to the average buyer could also mean selling your home faster.

But, we also want to make sure that we can recoup the cost of the addition when selling.

So, what are the smartest home addition projects?

Read on to find out!

Smartest Home Addition Projects to Increase Value

Upscale renovations and home additions don’t always translate to a smart investment. We may love our home addition and renovation ideas, but that doesn’t mean future buyers will be willing to pay the price. Explore the following smart home addition ideas to ensure you get the most value out of your home.

1. Wood Deck

In 2018, sellers recouped a whopping 82.8% of their wood deck addition costs. The project on average cost nearly $11,000 and added resale value of over $9,000.

Even though a wood deck is less expensive than composite decking, it still held its value more. Composite decks cost on average over $17,000 but only retained a resale value of just over $11,000. Adding a composite deck is still a smart investment, but adding on a wood deck is the better choice in terms of cost versus resale value.

2. Garage

For garage additions, you have three options: attached, detached, or a carport.

An attached garage will cost less but could limit its functionality based on available space and the need to connect to an existing structure. Detached offers more functionality such as additional storage or usable space, will cost more since you’re building four walls instead of three. If the detached garage has enough amenities, however, you could rent it out which will increase its value.

A carport is the cheapest option, but it may be the perfect addition for your home and real estate market. It can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 to build a carport, but you can expect a 100% return on your investment if it’s marketable in your area.

3. Bathroom

Homes with more than one bathroom are much more marketable than homes with just one. When a buyer considers buying a home with only one bathroom, they know their daily routines will be affected. These factors make a bathroom addition a smart investment when done in a cost-effective manner.

To get the best return on your investment, you’ll want to keep costs as low as possible for your bathroom design. If you purchase expensive materials or add in upscale features such as a sauna, it’s likely you won’t recoup the total cost of the addition.

On a project that costs around $45,000, people on average recouped around 60% of their investment on a medium-sized bathroom.

4. Closet

A lack of storage space can easily turn buyers away. Especially, indoor storage space that will be needed on a daily basis.

Building a closet is a great investment because it’s a low-cost addition with a 100% return on investment. If you stick to a lower budget, then you can easily add in the cost of the closet to your total home value.

5. Barn

Barns aren’t great home additions for everyone, but if you live in a real estate market that values barns, then you’re in luck! Barns can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $55,000 depending on the size, uses, and features. So, if you’re planning on staying in your home for 40 years or more expect a 100% return on investment.

If you plan to sell your home, you can expect a 75% return on investment if you find the right buyer.

6. Patio

Patios are great home additions because they don’t require traditional walls, but they do add square footage to your home. Instead of walls like a sunroom would have, you can simply install mesh screens.

Expect to pay anywhere from $9,000 to $25,000 on your patio addition with an 80% return on investment when selling.

7. In-Law Apartment

An in-law apartment is a 600 to 750 square foot detached living space for guests to stay in. They essentially get separate living quarters which allows them to easily move about without disturbing the main household routines.

In-law apartments also have great renting potential which increases their value. Adding in luxury budget-friendly materials such as vinyl planks can also increase your home and the apartment’s value.

Expect to pay upwards of $90,000 to build an in-law apartment with a return of investment of 100% if you find the right buyer.

8. Bedroom

Adding on a bedroom is a more expensive project. But, bedrooms also don’t require an abundance of expensive components such as a bathroom in order to be liveable.

Buyers do take into consideration the number of bedrooms a home has, but they will likely not want to pay for the cost of the addition fully. Instead, you can expect to recoup 50% of the total cost of your bedroom addition if you decide to sell.

When adding on a room such as a bedroom or a family room make sure to speak with an architect first. You’ll also want to obtain the proper permits and ensure that addition is legal in terms of property lines and regulations. It’s also a good idea to speak with a realtor or home appraiser beforehand to see how much of the cost you can recoup if you decide to sell later on.

Check out the following link to discover more home addition planning tips.

Ready to Build a Home Addition?

The key to making the smartest home addition decisions is to research and understand your area’s real estate market. Knowing what the average buyer in your area is looking for and the price they’re willing to pay will help you to decide which additions are the best bang for your buck.

Always aim to stick to your budget and keep in mind your potential return on investment. These two factors determine whether or not a home addition is a smart decision or a costly one.

Insulating your home for the first time? Check out our blog post to learn more about spray foam insulation.

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At-Home Entrepreneur: How to Airbnb like a Boss!

At-Home Entrepreneur: How to Airbnb like a Boss!

Airbnb hosts can earn from 200 to 10,000 dollars a month. 50 percent of hosts earn more than 500 dollars per month. Have you considered becoming an Airbnb host?

Maybe you have thought about it but, think you won’t be able to turn it into your everyday job. Even if you start small you can turn your Airbnb income into your main gig.

Don’t know how to Airbnb? We’ve got you covered.

We’ll tell you everything about how to rent on Airbnb and bring that income you’ve been dreaming about. Keep reading to become an Airbnb host today.

Get the Most Out of Your Home: How to Airbnb the Right Way

You might’ve heard or even rented Airbnb in the past and asked yourself how to do Airbnb. You may think it’s impossible to make it your everyday job. Yet, that’s far from the truth.

You can leave your job and turn your Airbnb side gig into your main gig. But, only if you learn how to do it the right way.

Don’t know how to rent on Airbnb? Here are the must-follow steps to become an at-home Airbnb entrepreneur today.

1. Prepare Your Property to List It on Airbnb

It might be tempting to list your property as is. Yet, the best strategy is getting your property ready before listing it on Airbnb. It’s important to verify if your property meets the local requirements for renting.

If you’re going to Airbnb your apartment, you must check if subletting is permitted in your apartment complex. Also, you should look for ways to make your property more inviting. Consider decorating your apartment or house following the latest go-to design trends.

2. Create Your Account and List Your Property

Once you prepare your property, it’s time to create your account. To list your property, you will need to clean your house or apartment. You should consider hiring a professional or doing it yourself.

If you choose the later, you may consider buying supplies such as the ones sold at http://expertchemicalinc.com/. High-quality cleaning supplies can help you give your listing a polished and clean look.

To make your listing stand out, you should take amazing professional looking photos of your rental and list all the amenities. You should aim to tell the story of your property and how it will allow your guests to enjoy your city.

3. Become an Airbnb Superhost and Grow Your Business

Guests choose to Airbnb because they want to experience your city like a local. Having a great and attractive rental is half the game. To earn a lucrative income from Airbnb, you must become a Superhost.

Always provide great customer service and make your guests feel at home. You should try to be available for your guests as much as you can.

If you won’t be in the area, you should provide your guests with an emergency contact who can take care of them. Providing great guest experiences will help your property rank better and grow your business.

The Bottom Line

Building a lucrative Airbnb business isn’t as complicated as you may think. While it takes hard work and dedication, you can turn it into your everyday job with the right plan. Remember to focus on providing memorable guest experiences and taking care of your property to stand out from your competition.

Learning how to Airbnb is the first step in your entrepreneurial journey. Renting Airbnb is a business like any other. Want advice and helpful tips to take your business to the next level?

Check out our Business and Career section for more insightful articles.

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2019 Sandals Style Guide: 10 Best Women’s Sandals for Any Occasion

2019 Sandals Style Guide: 10 Best Women's Sandals for Any Occasion

Sun-kissed days filled with sand and surf will be here before you know it. Which means it’s time for a serious pedicure to get your winter feet back in shape before you find yourself in the thick of summer’s dog days.

Of course, once your feet look and feel amazing, you’ve got to show off your flashy new toenail polish and soft heels in a pair of stunning sandals. Right?

But what if you’re tired of slipping your feet into another pair of uncomfortable sandals that pinch, rub, and wear in all the wrong places?

Then, change it up with the next generation of summer footwear that combines comfort with affordability and serious style. Here’s the lowdown on the 10 best women’s sandals of 2019.

1. The Greek Platform Wedge Sandal by Dream Pairs

These super-soft, micro-suede sandals come in a fun variety of bright hues to add that perfect pop of color to your summer wardrobe. The straps prove equally luxurious and stretchy ensuring a perfect fit.

If you’re looking for a go-to pair of popular sandals that can transition from day to night with ease, these wedges will do the trick. What’s more, your feet will rejoice every time they sink into the cushioned footbeds.

2. The Perfect Wedge Sandal by Teva

While most women equate Tevas with sport and water sandals, they also come in sophisticated little numbers. Don’t believe me? Check out the full specs on the Teva Ventura Cork 2 Wedge sandals at Barking Dog Shoes.

Among the best sandals for women, they fit true to size and have an adjustable ankle strap for comfort. There’s no toe post to contend with, and they feature stylish metal accents that dress up or down depending on your destination.

3. The Yoga Sling Flip-Flop by Sanuk

Some of the most comfortable sandals on the market, Sanuk’s sleek flip-flops feature soft cloth straps that hug and hold your feet in place. They feature a cushy, supportive footbed that makes them a great walking shoe.

What’s more, they have the versatility to complement everything from a t-shirt and jeans to a frilly summer dress. Wearing these feels about as close as your feet will ever get to Nirvana, and they work beautifully with the trendy fusion look.

4. The Sexi Flip Sandals by Crocs

Crocs footwear has outdone itself yet again with this chic redesign of the classic flip-flop. They offer loads of support and cushioning while still maintaining a sleek, lightweight design.

Whether you’re gardening in the backyard, walking the dogs, or strolling along the beach, they offer both versatility and serious visual appeal. They pair beautifully with sophisticated dresses, yet don’t appear out-of-place with a bikini and cut-offs.

5. The Mayari Sandal by Birkenstocks

Your feet deserve a vacation when summer rolls around. But depending on where you travel, they may actually end up taking a beating. Especially if you find yourself on your feet all day.

But your soles won’t care about all of the extra wear and tear with this great take on cork sandals. While you’re going to pay for the Birkenstock name, they offer fantastic support, particularly for high arches, and are podiatrist-approved.

6. The Eirwyn Wedge Sandal by Clarks

Not only do these wedges look stunning, especially in nude, but they make your feet feel as if they’re treading on clouds. And as for the “heel” aspect, you’ll enjoy the sophistication without the discomfort.

While these sandals don’t dress down quite as nicely as the others, they function well in a variety of more formal settings and can even work well for a wedding. They prove super plush and soft, and they won’t rub or slip.

7. The Breeze Sea Flip-Flop by Clarks

These sandals prove ultra-adjustable and comfortable. In fact, you can adjust the straps on top for a fit like none other. What’s more, they feel so great underfoot that you should seriously consider buying multiple pairs at once.

Of course, they’ll last you multiple summers. But the thought of ever living without them (once you own a pair) will make you hoard them in your closet. Seriously.

8. The Sandy Sandals by Reef

Just because your feet require extra arch support doesn’t mean you can’t wear flip-flops. Instead, pick up a pair of these Reef sandals. Their thick soles provide plenty of traction, support, and durability coupled with a fun, Boho vibe.

They hold up well to heavy use, and their cute, embroidered straps give them serious mileage when it comes to wardrobe changes. Whether you’re dancing the night away in a maxi dress or crabbing in the Gulf, these are all you’ll ever need.

9. The Olowahu Flip-Flop by Teva

These flip-flops have it all. They look sassy and unique with their embroidered, brightly-colored straps. And they mold to the width and length of your feet.

So, you end up with super comfortable sandals that actually stay on your feet. Whether you’re driving, walking, or running, these babies will go the distance all summer long. And they’re so darn cute you’ll want to wear them with everything.

10. The Rose Sandal by Keen

If you’re looking for a low-key sandal that can handle some serious mileage and elevation, then look no further than the Rose Sandal by Keen. A perfect option for summer hiking, they prove lightweight, stylish, and easy to wash.

The midsole offers cushioned support and a hook-and-loop closure for extra top control. The outsole provides optimal traction with a multi-directional lug pattern. Best of all, they come in a variety of colors for the perfect outfit complement.

The Best Women’s Sandals of 2019

The best women’s sandals 2019 combine functionality with fashion-forward appeal. They transition well between casual and not-so-casual looks. And most importantly, they will make your feet feel like a million bucks.

Instead of focusing on band-aids and blisters this summer, go with these trends to stay chic, cute, and comfy.

Ready for more fashion tips to get your summer off to the best start? Follow our fashion blog for the style advice you need to rock the warm weather months and more.

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A Life-Changing Miracle Drug: Tips for Using CBD Oil for Depression, Anxiety, and More

A Life-Changing Miracle Drug: Tips for Using CBD Oil for Depression, Anxiety, and More

The leading cause of disability worldwide is depression and anxiety, and these mental illnesses affect millions of Americans every single day.

Doctors write thousands of prescriptions for Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) to treat these illnesses. Along with these medications comes a long list of side effects which include drowsiness, irritability, and a decreased sex drive.

That’s why some people are turning to CBD oil and other methods to treat anxiety and depression.

Did you know CBD is helping people with all kinds of serious mental and physical issues? Learn about using CBD oil for depression, anxiety, and more.

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders afflict a huge part of the American population. 40 million American adults suffer from these disorders.

SSRIs and benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed to treat anxiety disorders.

CBD oil can mimic SSRIs. The oil works like an SSRI by boosting serotonin, the chemical which contributes to happiness and a sense of well-being.

There isn’t much research based on the effects of CBD oil for depression and anxiety due to legality. A lot of the research which has been conducted has been carried out mostly on animals.

But, the few studies that have been done on people have been promising which could make CBD oil a better alternative to these prescription medications.

CBD Oil for Depression

According to the World Health Organization, depression is one of the largest contributors to disability worldwide.

Like anxiety, depression is also treated with SSRIs and SNRIs. These drugs not only have undesired side effects but can also be highly addictive. These drugs normally work by stimulating the brain and producing serotonin.

CBD oil for depression is becoming a popular use of the drug because it isn’t addictive.

It works by stimulating the central nervous system and producing serotonin, similar to the prescription drugs. The cannabinoids in CBD oil can be used to help control appetite and help stabilize moods.

CBD oil can have a therapeutic, stress-relieving effect on the body which can help relieve symptoms of depression. It’s important to note that CBD oil won’t cure depression, but it can help.

If CBD oil sounds like it would benefit you in dealing with your depression, find out more.

Schizophrenia

Along with helping with anxiety and depression, some people say that CBD oil helps them with schizophrenia. While CBD oil can affect people differently, some users say it made the voices in their head stop.

They claim that oil doesn’t cure them of schizophrenia, but it does help relieve some of the symptoms. For some patients, using CBD oil could be a better alternative to all the medication they are prescribed instead.

Start Using CBD Oil

Marijuana and its products have been used for thousands of years but people are more recently becoming aware of all the benefits of it.

Marijuana and CBD oil aren’t legal everywhere, so before you start using CBD oil for depression, anxiety, or any other mental disorder, check what the laws are in your state. The laws are constantly changing.

You should also talk to your doctor before starting. They can help you decide what dosage to take and where to get it.

Once you do that, start taking CBD oil to help you conquer your mental illness.

You can learn more about taking CBD oil and improving your life here.

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When Jewelry Speaks: A Look at Gemstone Meanings

When Jewelry Speaks: A Look at Gemstone Meanings

Did you know that gemstones have hidden meanings? Throughout history, gemstones were common gifts or adornments thought to bring luck to their owners.

Aside from signifying your birthday month, precious stones also have a variety of health benefits. Some improve circulation while others may ward off evil spirits or bad energy.

To learn more about gemstone meanings, read our guide. Discover the benefits and rich history behind the most popular stones in jewelry.

Garnet

Garnet is the January birthstone.

The story goes that garnet was one of the stones given to King Solomon. Noah used a garnet to create light on the ark. Egyptians even believed garnet should be inside tombs to light the way into the next life.

When most people think of garnets, they picture red stones. But garnet can come in a variety of different colors.

Today, garnets tie to lovers as the red type symbolizes passion and long-lasting love. Because of this, garnets are traditionally given as a second-anniversary present.

Amethyst

Amethyst is the February birthstone.

Amethyst necklaces were one treasure found in the tombs of ancient Egyptians. It’s thought that this stone was once used as currency.

Ancient Greeks believed amethyst had the ability to protect against intoxication. As such, it’s often used to help those struggling with substance abuse and to stop harmful habits.

Amethyst is also used as a meditation aid and to remove energy blockages.

Diamond

Diamond is the April birthstone.

This popular stone is the mineral form of carbon. Throughout history, diamonds have been praised for their clarity and brilliance as well as their hardness.

Many believed these precious stones had healing powers and were sometimes used in the Dark Ages for medical aid.

Diamonds are symbols of eternal love and faithfulness.

The use of diamonds in wedding rings is somewhat recent. In 1947, De Beers commissioned an advertising agency to create the famous slogan “A diamond is forever”. This created the idea that diamonds were the only choice for an engagement ring.

Emerald

Emerald is the birthstone of May.

The oldest discovered emeralds are from Cleopatra’s mines. They also appeared in royal dynasties in the Middle East. Emeralds were one of many precious stones used in the Taj Mahal.

The green color associated with emeralds comes from the application of oils. Every few years the oils may be reapplied to bring out the beauty of this stone.

This stone is often used for physical healing and it is also said that emeralds can help people with broken hearts recover.

Ruby

Ruby is the July birthstone.

Like emeralds, rubies often appear in the crowns and jewelry of kings and queens throughout history. In Sanskrit, the word for ruby means “king of precious stones”.

Ruby is a powerful healing stone often used for healing the heart in both a physical and emotional sense. Many cultures believed that rubies linked to the power of life because of their deep, blood red color.

There are many gemstone benefits tied to health and emotional well being. In fact, ruby is one of the most powerful healing stones.

Aquamarine

Aquamarine is the birthstone of March.

The name comes from two Latin words meaning “water” and “of the sea”. It’s easy to see why considering the beautiful blue color of this stone. Aquamarine is a member of the beryl family.

People that wear aquamarine jewelry believe it increases foresight and intelligence. An old legend says that sailors would use this stone to stop seasickness.

Sapphire

Sapphire is the birthstone of September.

Blue is the most common color for sapphires but they can also be yellow, pink, and white among other colors.

Ancient Egyptians thought clear sapphires had a connection to the eye of Horus. Ancient Greeks thought sapphires connected to Apollo.

Sapphires are often used in crowns and tiaras. The blue sapphire helps with depression and feelings of sorrow or guilt. It is also said to help with anxiety or physical pains.

Sapphires have already made an appearance in runway shows for this year. Combining clusters of natural stones is one of the trends for 2019 and you can be a real fashionista by learning how to accessorize your look.

Opal

Opal is one of the birthstones for October.

The word Opal is a Sanskrit word that means “stone”. Most consider opal a good luck stone, but a few think it brings misfortune to anyone not born in October.

In ancient times many considered opals extremely lucky. Ancient Greeks thought opals had the power to lend powers of prophecy and according to Arabian legend, opals came to Earth on bolts of lightning.

So is the opal meaning one of good luck or bad luck? Many agree the bad luck myth stems from a misinterpreted novel by Sir Walter Scott. In the novel, a character dies when a drop of holy water falls onto her opal ring.

Opal has one of the most complex stone meanings. Yet despite the myths, it is often used in realigning your energy and emotions.

Onyx

Onyx comes from a Greek word meaning fingernail. The myth goes that Cupid clipped Venus’ fingernails and cast them on the beaches after which they became onyx.

Onyx jewelry was often worn by Queen Victoria while she was mourning. Since then, the onyx meaning became tied to the process of healing after bereavement. This stone can also help with fixing bad habits or appearing humble and apologetic in court.

Most onyx isn’t black at all, but brownish with bands. Today, the majority of onyx is dyed and black remains a popular color choice.

Gemstone Meanings and Healing Properties: More Than Just Jewelry

The history behind our favorite stones goes back thousands of years, and certain gems will never go out of style. Now that you know various gemstone meanings, you can start to use them for healing purposes.

Even if you don’t believe in the medicinal purples of these stones, you’ve learned about the history. So the next time you put on a piece of jewelry, you’ll know more about the language of stones and their meanings.

Do you want to find more information on health and wellness topics? Check out our wellness articles for more stories and advice.

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Is Hiring a Certified Professional Resume Writer Really Worth It?

Is Hiring a Certified Professional Resume Writer Really Worth It?

You’ve finally done it. You’ve found that dream job you’ve been hoping for and you even meet the qualifications. Time to send in your resume and get the job!

If only it were that easy. Finding the perfect job might not be so difficult, but creating a resume that’s exactly what they’re looking for can be.

How do you know what the hiring manager wants to see? How do you perfectly show what you’re capable of doing?

Sounds like you need a certified professional resume writer. Is it worth your time and money to hire one? Keep reading to learn why it is.

Your Resume Hasn’t Been Enough

If you haven’t been getting a great response from your current resume, or even your past few designs, it’s time to get some help. A professional resume writer can help you nail what you’re trying to say.

It can be difficult to put your experience and skills into words. The great thing is, you don’t always have to. You can go it alone if you want to, but professionals can help you do it even better.

A professional can help you get your resume down right. They’ll know how to work things to make you sound your best. They’ll also know what experience is important to mention and what doesn’t necessarily have to be there.

Your Expertise is in Something Else

You’re a professional at what you do. That means you know the ins and outs and how to do the job right the first time. Your expertise may not be in resume writing, though.

The thing is, we all have to write resumes. Without them, most of us wouldn’t have jobs. So if you’re among the group whose professional skills are in something other than designing a resume, a professional writer can help.

They Know Current Trends

Just like with every other industry, trends change. Music, hairstyles, makeup, and clothing have all changed a ton over time. The same is true of resumes.

Should you include a picture of yourself these days? Should you like to a portfolio? What about proving a number the hiring manager can send a text to?

If you aren’t sure what the current trends are for resumes, hire a professional. Making even the simplest mistakes could cost you the job you’ve always dreamed of.

Your resume’s entire design needs to be taken into account. Spacing, font styles and size, and what’s included are all important aspects. Every aspect may be taken into consideration by potential employers, so make sure you nail it.

What if Your Writer Doesn’t Know You?

Chances are if you’re hiring a professional to write your resume for you that person isn’t a close personal friend. That doesn’t mean they won’t be able to write all about you, though.

How’s it done? The writer will interview you. They’ll find out about your skills and past experience and pick up things about your personality, too.

Because personality is important. A good resume writer will be creative in painting a good picture of you as a person, as well as show off your professional skills.

To get to know your potential writers better, consider checking out resume writing services reviews.

They Know About Quick Looks and Software

Most hiring managers receive a ton of resumes. They don’t have the time to thoroughly read through all of them. That means each resume may only receive ten seconds (or less) of a manager’s time.

Keywords, professional appearance, and easiness to read may be at the top of the manager’s list of what to look for. They can quickly scan a document and throw out the ones that don’t match their ideal description.

Or, they can use special software. This software has been designed to search through resumes so managers don’t have to invest as much time.

Professional resume writers know about these things, and they know how to write with them in mind. That means, when you hire one, you’ll have the peace of mind that your resume will be in the best form possible to pass these super quick tests and make it to the next round for more serious consideration.

You Don’t Like Attention

Writing about your qualifications might be hard for you if you don’t like to “toot your own horn.” If this sounds like you, hiring a professional is the perfect remedy.

They won’t mind talking you up. And they’ll know how to do it in an appropriate way. So let them do the work and show off your awesome skills for you!

Your Resume Isn’t Perfect

There might be things in your job history that make you an imperfect-looking candidate. That doesn’t automatically mean you can’t get the job you’re looking for.

Were you out of work for a while? Did you get fired from a job in the past? Did you quit without notice?

While these are the sorts of things employers don’t always love to see, a professional writer can help you smooth them over.

Hire a Certified Professional Resume Writer Today

No matter how you look at it, writing a resume is hard. The concept of throwing your experience down on paper might not be difficult to grasp, but doing it in the right way is trickier.

If resume writing isn’t your forte, hire a certified professional resume writer. He or she will know exactly what to do to make your qualifications shine.

Do you tend to freak out on your way to an interview? Check out this article on how to stay calm.

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Heal Your Mind and Body: 5 Potential Medical Benefits of Marijuana

Heal Your Mind and Body: 5 Potential Medical Benefits of Marijuana

Currently, 33 states in the United States allow for some form of medical marijuana use.

Medical marijuana is a huge industry, with medical marijuana totals in 2018 coming in at $4.5 billion. Why are Americans spending so much money on medical marijuana?

Because it works.

Ready to take responsibility for the state of your health? Explore the potential medical benefits of marijuana use and heal both your mind and your body.

1. Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a condition that increases the amount of pressure in your eye and can eventually lead to loss of sight.

Marijuana has been found to relieve eye pressure and help with the major symptom of Glaucoma. Many medications for Glaucoma come with a slew of side effects, which makes medical marijuana a great option for treatment.

2. Epileptic Seizures

One of the ways to use weed medically is to help with Epileptic Seizures.

Epileptic seizures occur when there is too much neuronal activity in the brain. Many times these seizures are unprovoked and occur frequently.

Studies show that people who consume medical marijuana can gain control over their seizures. The use of medical marijuana to help epileptic seizures is most common among children and people who are resistant to other treatment methods.

3. Multiple Sclerosis

Wondering what does weed help with? Medical marijuana provides benefits to those suffering from Multiple Sclerosis.

MS is a disease that affects your central nervous system and can cause painful contraction of your muscles. But, research shows that people who use medical cannabis feel fewer painful muscle contractions.

While medical marijuana doesn’t cure MS, it helps ease the associated pain.

4. Anxiety

Anxiety is prevalent in our high-paced society. But cannabis healing has proven effective for many mental illnesses like anxiety.

When used in low doses, THC is shown to help relieve the symptoms of anxiety. The key here is low doses. Anxiety sufferers who experiment with higher doses can actually increase their symptoms.

5. Chemotherapy Side-Effects

One of the known medical advantages of weed is that it helps with the many side-effects associated with chemotherapy.

Chemotherapy is one of the most beneficial treatments for cancer patients across the world. While chemotherapy may help treat cancer, it comes with its own slew of harmful side-effects.

Using medical marijuana in conjunction with chemotherapy reduces pain, decreases nausea, and increases your appetite.

If you or someone you know is going through chemotherapy, visiting a marijuana dispensary, like Broadway Dispensary, can be vital to your health. Many dispensaries specialize in medical cannabis and have trained staff to guide you through the process to get the best results.

Medical Benefits of Marijuana

Know that you know about some of the medical benefits of marijuana, you’re ready to improve the state of your health.

On top of these five medical benefits, there are countless more being discovered every day. Medical marijuana could be the cure to whatever ails you. Consult with your doctor first and then

Check out our blog for all the best tips on wellness and living your best life.

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How to Care for the New Floors in Your Home: The Best Products in 2019

How to Care for the New Floors in Your Home: The Best Products in 2019

When you’ve got new hardwood floors or carpeting in your home, keeping these surfaces looking clean and tidy is a top priority. There are plenty of products on the market that can help you accomplish that goal, but which ones are the most reliable? Keep these four products in mind as you battle against dirt and grime around your living space.

Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Spray

When dealing with hardwood floors, you want to be careful with your choice of cleaner, otherwise, you could end up with streaks or a sticky residue. Bona is a water-based cleaning product that has earned high ratings with shoppers. Simply spray the area you want to clean, and then mop with a microfiber pad. The result will be a shiny surface with no leftover streaks. It also works on laminate flooring. Bona has a GREENGUARD Gold certification, which means it won’t pose a health hazard for your children or pets.

Method Squirt + Mop

If environmentally-safe products are a high priority for you, Method Squirt + Mop Wood Floor Cleaner is another item to add to your shopping list. It uses a biodegradable formula and won’t irritate your skin. The cleaner also features an almond scent, so your room will smell as good as it looks.

Hoover FH50150 Carpet Basics Power Scrub Deluxe

Choosing a carpet cleaner can be a little more complicated than choosing a hardwood cleaner, due to the generous amount of features available. The Hoover Carpet Basics Power Scrub Deluxe has high consumer ratings and is a lightweight cleaning tool. Its spinning brush system gives your carpet a thorough cleaning, using both water and detergent. The heated air feature helps the carpet to dry quickly so you can get on with your day. Additional features, like the 8-foot hose and easy-to-clean tank, only add to the convenience.

ZeroG Vac

If your living space has carpet in one room and hardwood in another, you’ll want a cleaner that can transition smoothly between those spaces. ZeroG Vac is the perfect cleaning tool for tackling multiple rooms and surfaces. This vacuum glides on air, and thanks to its lack of wheels, you can guide it through your home without fear of it snagging on corners or the edges of carpets.  High mobility isn’t its only benefit. It also has a canister that holds a half-gallon of dirt and a slim design that lets it reach under furniture. Use it for picking up fur in your carpet or sweeping up dirt on your bare floors.

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