Hey! So glad you stopped by today, I look forward to your comments each week.
Melinda
Friday Quote 9/02/2022
Category: Men & Womens Health
How to Protect Your Finances In Case You Cannot Work
If you were to suddenly become permanently unable to work for any length of time, how would you cope financially? It is a scary prospect for anyone. The good news is that, with some planning and sensible precautions, anyone can protect their finances in case they cannot work. These situations can be highly stressful, but with the proper knowledge and advice, you can rest assured that your financial future is secure.
Critical Illness Cover
Critical illness cover is designed for people concerned about the impact that a long-term illness or disability may have on their finances. A critical illness policy pays out a lump sum if you are diagnosed with one of several specified illnesses – many of which are conditions that can be long-term or have a significant impact on your ability to work. It would typically cover things like long-term illness, disability, or the loss of a significant bodily function, e.g., loss of sight or a limb. Some policies may also cover things like the loss of a parent or the death of a spouse or partner – this would depend on the circumstances and the policy you take out. This can be particularly helpful if you are the primary breadwinner in the family – and would be responsible for paying the mortgage, bills, and taking care of any children.
Have An Emergency Fund
An emergency fund allows you to deal with unforeseen events or expenses that may arise, such as a sudden loss of earnings, a medical emergency, or a home repair. Having a fund to fall back on will help you to cope with any financial problems that arise and will mean that you do not have to rely on credit cards or loans to bridge the gap. You can set the amount you want to contribute each month to an account you can access whenever you need. This can help with any living costs in the absence of income or support out-of-pocket expenses such as finding an AFFF attorney to make a claim regarding your illness.
Debt Protection Insurance
Debt protection insurance plans are designed to help protect your assets from being seized if you cannot pay your debts. Even if you do not think you have a lot of debt, you may be surprised at how quickly things can spiral out of control. And if you are unfortunate enough to fall ill and need to take time off work, your finances could be at risk. Plans like this will typically pay out a certain amount if you cannot pay off your creditors due to an accident or illness. Typically, they also pay out a reduced amount on any ongoing debts. This will help protect your assets and future finances against lawsuits being filed against you because you cannot pay your bills.
Look Into Income Protection
While critical illness cover aims to replace some of your income should you become ill, income protection is designed to replace your income should you become sick and unable to work for an extended period. With income protection, you pay a monthly or yearly amount; should you become unable to work, you will be paid out by the insurance company. Typically, you will be paid a percentage of what you previously earned. It is important to note that different providers have different definitions of long-term illness, so it is best to check the terms of your policy to see your situation in the event that you cannot work.
Conclusion
Planning ahead is key to protecting your finances if you cannot work. Start saving as early as possible, and be sure to take full advantage of all the tax reliefs available. It is also essential to consider the types of insurance best suited to your circumstances and future goals.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Here’s a great video of President Ronald Reagan being interviewed by Johnny Carson from 1975
This video is so refreshing, and I look forward to the day someone like Ronald Reagan runs for office. I try hard to keep out of politics but it’s very hard these days not to have an opinion, most of them strong. Many areas of our government are broken and still broken since he left office. I’m not saying he is the greatest President in the world, I’m saying I love his candor and attitude.
The most important comment he made was, not verbatim, that people need to look to themselves to solve problems, not the government. Amen, and a cherry on top!!!!!
To My Husband of 20 years
It’s hard to believe it’s been 20 years since we met at a New Years’ Eve party neither of us planned to attend. Guess you call that Karma. Being 38 and divorced, I was in no rush to get seriously involved but your actions spoke louder than words and they showed me who you were on the inside.
Starting a new relationship with a chronic illness is tricky, when do tell them about your illness? I believe in the up-front manner. When I told you about my mental illness, it was a big relief for me and you could make the decision for yourself. You took a leap of faith.
Neither of us could have looked at a crystal ball and guessed what our future held. You had no idea you were committing to a life of sickness but you never blink an eye, you jump right in to help. I can’t begin to say thank you enough for keeping your commitment, actions are the truth.
Here are a few examples of how love is louder than words
- Every night I was in the Psychiatric hospital you would bring me dinner when you got off work, which was an hour away.
- You made sure we flew first-class when we were traveling to Washington, DC for my Lyme treatments. The pain was indescribable, and the extra space was a lifesaver.
- When I broke my wrist you would open my yogurt and place it in a cup I could open. You even wrote the names of the flavors on top.
Thru all the doctor appointments, illnesses, and disappointments you have never wavered in your commitment and never made me fill guilty when I was away for weeks at a time taking care of my grandparents. Actions speak louder than words.
Our life may look different than we thought it would but I would not trade a minute of our time together. I’m looking forward to your retirement and our new life, new adventures, and more great memories.
Here’s to 20 more!
Melinda
Deep Thoughts
In this fast-paced social media world, it can be difficult to find the time to look within or back in time. I hope you find these quotes and questions interesting. So glad you stopped by today!
My First school:
My First film:
My First trip:
My First car:
My first car was an old ugly green Dodge Duster. It had a killer stereo but the bracks were hell. This was my 16th birthday present from my father.
Enjoy!
Melinda
What To Do Before Starting A Home Garden
A home garden offers loads of benefits beyond boosting your home’s curb appeal and increasing your property’s value. It plays a significant role in improving your physical and mental health. It also helps reduce your expenses (depending on what you grow in your garden) and establish sustainable measures in your home. But if you’re new to gardening and thinking about creating one for your home for the first time, the last thing you want to do is jump right into planting a garden. Here are some things you need to do before you start a home garden.
Decide on the best garden spot
The first thing you want to do is consider the best place to grow your garden. Of course, this will depend on your home and how much space you have. Be sure that your ideal spot offers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Therefore, it would be best if you took the time to observe your preferred spaces to figure out which spots receive the most sunlight. If you have too much shade in your yard, all hope is not lost, as there are two options you can try. On the one hand, you can remove the source of shade, depending on what it is. On the other hand, you can consider growing indoor plants that thrive with little sunlight instead.
After deciding on the best spot, clear the ground of weeds, dead trees, stumps, etc. You can hire experts to remove some of these stubborn obstacles if necessary. You can visit websites like duvaltreeandbobcat.com for experienced and safe tree removal services.
Decide on the most suitable plants to grow
The next thing you want to do is decide on what plants you want to grow. Would you like to create a vegetable garden to supplement your grocery needs? Or do you want to spruce up your curb appeal with lush flowers? Knowing the purpose of the garden will help you decide what to grow in it. If you want to grow a garden for food, think about what vegetables, fruits, or herbs you need the most. Also, consider which food items are difficult or expensive to purchase and see if you can grow them. If your garden is for curb appeal, think about what plants or flower pieces you love the most and can thrive in your location.
Know what’s needed to encourage wildlife
Wildlife is an important part of your garden because it helps encourage growth in all aspects of the space. From pollinating flowers to creating an experience for you and your household to enjoy. You might also want to think about adding some wildlife that remains in your garden, like fish in a pond or chickens in a pen. For this, you’re going to need to have the right setup required like this automatic chicken waterer for example.
Invest in essential garden equipment
Gardening can be very relaxing, but it can also be very tasking, especially if you don’t have the right garden tools. You can take advantage of many tools, facilities, and equipment in the modern gardening world to make growing your plants easier. Of course, you don’t need to invest in a comprehensive range of garden equipment when you’re a beginner. You only need the basic and most essential tools, such as a rake, hand trowel, hoe, spade, garden fork, and pruning shears. Also, before considering gardening, be sure you’re willing to devote the time and effort a home garden demands.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Quote of the Day — Guest Blogger Don’t Lose Hope
“Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain, and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain.” – Matt Haig This is an important truth to grasp. You may struggle with mental illness. You may be displaying the effects of trauma. But none […]
Quote of the Day — Don’t Lose Hope
Blogger Highlight-The Orange Rose
Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week I highlight a new blogger, The Orange Rose.
The Orange Rose
Shedding the old and creating the new! Please join me for a world of poems, food reviews, self healing content, and mindful thinking content. Thank you 😊
The Orange Rose is a blog for everyone.
Melinda
Adventures Added To My Bucket List
I love to dream about all the places and things I want to do. They’re not quite goals since the list is long but they’re a reminder of where to go when I’m planning an advantage. I hope this will prompt you to think about all the things you want to do in life and to write them down. Something written down is more likely to turn into a goal or be successful. I learned early in my career, the more I wrote about what I wanted to accomplish, the more accomplished I became.
Here’s the link to my previous Bucket List.
Here’s the link to my previous Bucket List.
Dive with Whales
Dive with the big Manta Rays
Go in a pressurized capsule deep into the ocean to look at a shipwreck.
Ride a Camel (ethically)
Bathe an Elephant in the river
Spend the day talking with Elon Musk
Become a wildlife rescuer
Create a Hydroponic garden
Lavish the countryside and shops in Greece
Own a Shiba Inu dog
Hike Nevada and Verna Falls at Yosemite National Park a second time
See Niagra Fallas
Have a proper greenhouse to grow veggies and flowers year round and grow plants from seeds
Complete my Ancesesty charts
I’ll update again after I have so time to contemplate.
What is on your Bucket List? don’t have one?…start today.
Have a great day.
Melinda
Proriasis Awareness Month
Psoriasis Awareness Month or Psoriasis Action Month holds throughout August yearly. This holiday aims to educate the public about psoriasis and enlighten patients on topics surrounding causes, triggers, and treatment methods. The event was first observed in October 1997 as a full-scale national awareness campaign, publicizing relevant facts about psoriasis through newspapers, radio, and television. Thankfully, psoriasis is treatable; however, dissemination of vital information on all aspects of the disease is necessary, which is the aim of this month.
Psoriasis is a condition characterized by scaly, red, and raised patches on the skin, especially on the elbows, knees, and scalp; however, it could also affect other areas in the body. Psoriasis often causes itching, burning, and stinging in affected areas. Though its etiology is unclear to medical experts, psoriasis occurs when the life cycle of skin cells increases, causing a buildup of excess skin cells that form red patches and scales. Scientists believe that genetics and the immune system are contributory factors to the development of psoriasis.
Psoriasis affects people differently, with varying levels of severity. For severe cases, 10% or more of the patient’s skin may be affected by the disease. In mild cases, less than 3% is affected by psoriasis; however, psoriasis affects between 3% to 10% of the skin in moderate cases. Because psoriasis is often cyclical, particular triggers, such as infections, skin injuries, heavy alcohol consumption, vitamin D deficiency, stress, emotional trauma, certain medications, and smoking, may lead to an episode. Thankfully, psoriasis has various treatment options — creams and ointments can clear skin patches in mild-to-moderate cases. Light therapy, including U.V.B. phototherapy, Goeckerman therapy, and psoralen plus ultraviolet A (PUVA), can also be employed. For severe psoriasis, retinoids, methotrexate, and cyclosporine are the drugs of choice.
5 IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT PSORIASIS
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Plaque psoriasis
This is the most common type of psoriasis and manifests as raised, red patches covered by a white buildup of cells.
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Guttate psoriasis
This type of psoriasis is common in children and young adults and usually appears as lesions.
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Inverse psoriasis
This type of psoriasis usually appears as red lesions in skin folds, such as behind the knees, the breast folds, the armpits, and the groin.
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Pustular psoriasis
It causes white skin eruptions and commonly occurs on the hands and feet.
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Erythrodermic psoriasis
This type of psoriasis leads to painful and itchy redness over large areas of the skin.
To your health!
Melinda
References:
Fun Facts
Hi, thanks for stopping by today. I love hearing your comments each week. We learn some interesting things don’t we?
Michael Jackson offered to make a Harry Potter musical, but the offer was rejected.
The world record for stuffing drinking straws into your mouth at once is 650.
Nutella was invented shortly after WWII ended because chocolate was so expensive.
North Korea has its own space program.
According to Genesis 1:20-22, the chicken came before the egg.
Enjoy!
Melinda
Reference:
Do You Take Supplements? Are They Safe?
Do you know what’s in your supplements? At one time I was taking 12 supplements, after reading many stories of people who had dangerous side effects from a supplement, I quit taking them. The only supplements I take are Calcium, Vitamin D3, and sometimes a Probiotic.
Below is an example of supplements gone wrong, causing death.
Kaiser Health News obtained documents of Congressman Tom McClintock’s wife who died from taking the supplement white mulberry tree. The 61-year-old died of dehydration due to gastroenteritis — an inflammation of the stomach and intestines — that was caused by “adverse effects of white mulberry leaf ingestion.”
The report states that a “partially intact” white mulberry leaf was found in her stomach.
The white mulberry tree, which is native to China, is often used in traditional medicine for ailments such as weight loss, diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure, according to WedMD and Healthline. It is typically taken in capsule, liquid or tea form.
White mulberry plants are generally considered safe — only two cases of people sickened by mulberry supplements have been reported to the FDA since 2004, according to KHN.
Dr. D’Michelle DuPre, a former medical examiner in South Carolina who reviewed the documents, told KHN that white mulberry leaf also “tend to cause dehydration, and part of the uses for that can be to help someone lose weight, mostly through fluid loss, which in this case was just kind of excessive.”
St. John’s Wort
Taking St. John’s wort may also reduce the effectiveness of other medications, including birth control pills, chemotherapy, HIV or AIDS medication, and medicine to prevent organ rejection after a transplant, according to the NIH. Before taking St. John’s wort, read up on potential drug interactions, and ask your doctor about the risks and benefits of this supplement, as well as how it compares to your other options.
A study found that 28 percent of the time St. John’s wort was prescribed between 1993 and 2010, it was administered in dangerous combinations with antidepressant or anti-anxiety medication, statins, the blood-thinning drug warfarin (Coumadin), or oral contraceptives. For example, combining St. John’s wort with an antidepressant can cause serious complications, including a life-threatening increase in the brain chemical serotonin, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.
Fish Oil ( Chose Fish Oil Not Flax Seed)
The NIH said, currently, there’s not enough positive evidence for doctors to prescribe fish oil supplements to every patient, though. Aside from the mixed research results, omega-3 deficiency is very rare in the United States, according to the NIH. One important drug interaction with omega-3 supplements is coumadin (Warfarin).
Here’s a breakdown of the ways to get you Omega 3’s.
EPA and DHA
- Fish and other seafood, especially cold-water fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, herring, and sardines
DHA
- Fortified foods, such as certain brands of eggs, yogurt, juices, milk, and soy beverages (may contain other forms of omega-3s, depending on the brand)
ALA
- Nuts and seeds, such as flaxseed, chia seeds, and walnuts
- Plant oils, such as flaxseed oil, soybean oil, and canola oil
Kava: Overuse Can Harm Your Liver
Taking too much kava, or taking it for too long, has been linked to serious liver damage, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver failure. As a result, according to the NIH, the FDA has warned that people, especially those with liver disease or liver problems, or those who are taking drugs that can affect the liver, should talk to their healthcare practitioner before using kava. In addition, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health reports that heavy consumption of kava has been associated with heart problems and eye irritation.
Several drugs may interact with kava, from anticonvulsants to anti-anxiety medications, and any drug metabolized by the liver. What’s more, people taking kava need to avoid drinking alcohol due to potential liver harm.
Here’s a list of supplements considered dangerous.
Aconite
Bitter Orange
Chaparral
Colloidal Silver
Coltsfoot
Comfrey
Country Mallow
Germanium
Greater Celandine
Lobelia
Yohimbe
Rauwolfia Vomitoria
Tripterygium wilfordii
Pueraria Mirifica
Here’s a short list of others to be cautious of.
Red Yeast Rice
Ginkgo
Beta Carotene
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Mushrooms
Alternative Medicine
Ayurvedic Supplements
Tip
Curious about what other herbal supplements may not live up to the marketing? Check out these NCCIH factsheets and talk to your doctor before trying any supplement to make sure it’s safe for you.
Should You Take Supplements?
It can feel like there’s a new pill, powder, or gummy popping up every day claiming to support your health. But should you even take supplements?
“There’s no population group that specifically needs supplements other than those with a documented vitamin or mineral deficiency who are ordered by their doctor to take supplements,” says Andrea Paul, MD, physician and medical advisor for Illuminate Labs.
“Certain supplements can be a good first-line solution to some health problems, as they tend to have fewer side effects than pharmaceutical drugs. But purity is much more of an issue with supplements than with prescribed drugs,” she says.
In short: Talk to your doctor before taking a supplement, and make sure it’s a good quality product.
These are just a few supplements that you need to know more about before taking them. The other important test is to see if the pill dissolves. Put a little vinegar and water in a cup and let it set for several hours, if the supplement hasn’t dissolved, it won’t break down in your stomach. You wasted money on a supplement that only travels through your body and out the other side.
Tip
Curious about what other herbal supplements may not live up to the marketing? Check out these NCCIH factsheets and talk to your doctor before trying any supplement to make sure it’s safe for you.
How to Spot a False Promise
Per the NSF and Tufts University, here are some buzzwords to look out for that may indicate a supplement is making a far-fetched claim:
- “Pharmaceutical strength:” There is no such thing as pharmaceutical-strength over-the-counter supplements.
- “Promise” or “guarantee:” Many supplements swear they’ll help you become thinner, stronger, smarter or otherwise “improved” in some way. These promises are typically false.
- “Quick fix:” This type of language takes advantage of wishful thinking by suggesting that a supplement is an easy cure for a problem.
Approval and regulation of dietary supplements is a tricky subject. No, the FDA does not have to approve supplements before they hit the market. That doesn’t mean, however, that the world of vitamins and supplements is a free-for-all. Still, you are smart to take precautions when it comes to picking the right supplement for you.
More Reading Material
FDA warns of dangerous drugs in weight loss supplements: Tainted …
The Most Common Food and Drug Interactions
Many Men Are Using Online Drugs For Bodybuilding, But They Aren’t Safe
Finding a pure supplement that dissolves and works is not an easy task. I get so frustrated when a pill does not dissolve, it’s a waste of money. I would like to see manufacturers provide a sample you can check out before buying, but I don’t see that happening. Once you find a brand that meets the requirements, stick with that brand. Be cautious of outrageous claims, chances are they aren’t true. I even check to see if my prescription medication dissolves.
The best way to decide if you need to take a supplement is to be sure to do your research, and not from the manufacturer. The reading material above will provide some of the answers.
Melinda
References:
New 23 & Me Report on Fibromyalgia
23 & Me is a DNA Testing and has a Family Tree maker too. This is an interesting study.
August 17, 2022
This week, we released a new report (powered by 23andMe Research) on Fibromyalgia for 23andMe+ members.
Fibromyalgia is characterized by chronic pain and tenderness throughout the body. That pain can be intermittent and move to different parts of the body. Fibromyalgia symptoms can also include fatigue, problems sleeping, and difficulty concentrating.
Because of the pain, discomfort, and chronic nature of the condition, people with fibromyalgia often experience depression and anxiety as they cope with their symptoms.
Understanding Fibromyalgia
The causes of fibromyalgia are not well understood, but genetics and other factors influence how likely an individual is to develop the condition.
Researchers believe people with fibromyalgia have higher pain sensitivity. That may reflect differences in the nervous system for these individuals, especially in the brain and spinal cord.
While the exact causes are not understood, certain non-genetic factors are associated with a higher likelihood of developing the condition. A family history of the condition also increases the odds of developing it. It’s also associated with other health conditions, like depression, viral infection, arthritis, and lupus. Stress or trauma also is associated with higher chances of developing fibromyalgia.
While the condition can affect people of any age, it tends to develop in middle age. It’s estimated that as many as five million people in the U.S. live with fibromyalgia, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Women are more likely to be diagnosed with fibromyalgia, but it’s also believed that the condition is under-diagnosed, especially in men.
A New Report
Our new report is powered by data from people who have consented to participate in 23andMe research and uses machine learning techniques to estimate an individual’s likelihood of developing fibromyalgia.
This estimate is made using a statistical model that includes 13,040 genetic markers and information on an individual’s ethnicity and birth sex. In this white paper, you can learn more about the science and methodology behind our new report.
Managing and Treating Fibromyalgia
Although it’s not life-threatening, fibromyalgia can make day-to-day life difficult.
Beyond the symptoms already described like chronic pain and fatigue, people with the condition also may deal with headaches, migraines, irritable bowel syndrome, or even a painful bladder.
Often those with the condition benefit from counseling or participate in support groups as part of a broader effort to manage their fibromyalgia.
In addition, many experts agree that lifestyle habits may help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for those with fibromyalgia. Regular exercise, good sleep and sleep habits, and stress-reduction or mindfulness techniques have been shown to help manage symptoms.
Learn More
23andMe’s new Fibromyalgia report (powered by 23andMe Research) is available to all 23andMe+ members. To view your report, go here.
Not a 23andMe+ member? To become a 23andMe+ member, or to find out more go here.
The post 23andMe+ Report on Fibromyalgia appeared first on 23&Me Blog.
Melinda
Friday Quote 8/26/2022
Hey! So glad you stopped by today, I look forward to your comments each week.
Melinda
8 Ways To Help You Make Friends In a New City — Guest Post Olivia Lucie Blake
It’s natural to feel lonely when you move to a new city, especially if you move alone and have to start all over again, it’s hard to make friends. With so much going on in these first few weeks, you almost forget that you should have a social life, and by the time you remember, […]
8 Ways To Help You Make Friends In a New City — Olivia Lucie Blake
I’m Afraid of Stairs, Fall Once and You will too.
In December 2018 I was home alone and walking down the stairs with both hands full. I don’t know what happened but I took a nasty fall halfway down the stairs. Landing with all my body weight on my head and neck. I was so afraid that if I moved I would be paralyzed, you can’t imagine the fear. I had no choice but to slowly get up and call 911.
I was rushed to the hospital after they gave me some pain medication and wrapped my wrist. The fall caused some good road rash on my face, sore muscles, and a shattered wrist which required surgery and a plate implanted.
What made me think of that fall is what happened today. I was walking up the stairs and not paying attention or holding the rail. Taking my shirt off as I approached the top and lost my balance and slammed into the wall.
I know I’m having problems with dizziness but it’s hard to be on guard 24/7. I will make more effort to always hold the rail, that’s been my mission since my horrible fall but I get lax sometimes.
The fall was caused by me being very sick and going down the stairs with my hands loaded instead of on the rail.
Take care of yourself and go slow if you are prone to dizziness and be aware of trying to take too much downstairs a one time.
Melinda
Deep Thoughts
In this fast-paced social media world, it can be difficult to find the time to look within or back in time. I hope you find these quotes or questions interesting. So glad you stopped by today!
My first pet:
My first failure at school:
My first cooking:
My first smoke:
Enjoy!
Melinda
Great Reasons To Invest In Property When In Your 20’s
If you make smart investments when you’re in your 20s, you can set yourself up for a much better financial life. Real estate is one of the best things you can put your money into. People in their 20s are told to try to get a foot on the property ladder as soon as they can. Why? Well, check out these three amazing reasons:
Don’t Waste Your Money
When you’re young, a house is a great way to spend your money. Yes, you will need a mortgage, which means making payments every month for years. But it’s much better to do this than to pay rent to a landlord for years.
What does rent get you? Hardly anything, just a roof you don’t own over your head. You don’t have any say over the property; you can’t even change the way it looks without permission. When you invest in real estate, you might end up with a house that you own and are in charge of. So, even though money is spent on mortgage payments, it’s not wasted because it goes toward something very valuable. Have a look at some real estate tips if you need more convincing.
Make An Investment That Will Make Money
Some investments are better than others in terms of safety. Putting thousands of dollars into the stock market could be a good or bad idea. There’s a chance that the stocks you buy will go down, which means you’ll lose a lot of money.
On the other hand, the value of a property will almost always go up. The long-term trend of history shows that house prices go up. If you buy a house when you’re in your 20s, you can sell it when you’re in your 40s, 50s, or when you retire and make a lot of money.
You Have Full Control Of The Investment
As the last point shows, you can buy a house, live in it for years, and still make money on it if you keep it in good shape. But one of the best parts about climbing the property ladder is that you can decide how much your investment is worth.
You can’t legally do anything to change how much shares cost on the stock market. There are many things you can do to make your home more valuable. In a couple of months, you can increase the value of your home by making a few changes and then selling it for a profit. Or, you can make changes over time so that when you go to sell it, it’s worth a lot more. You are in charge either way.
Basically, the best investment you can make in your 20s is in real estate. You need to remember you are committing to long-term borrowing, but it could be worth it.
If you’d rather buy the house outright, the best thing you can do is save up for a mortgage. You’ll need enough money for a down payment, and you’ll need to make sure your credit is good enough to qualify for a mortgage.
Getting your foot on the property ladder is a great idea, no matter how you do it. Try to do it as soon as you can.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
How to Protect Yourself from Stalking
There is nothing quite as frightening as being stalked. Having somebody knowingly follow your moves, put devices in your car to follow your car goes, and generally invade your space in a very intrusive way can be scary. Being a victim of stalking can create a lot of trauma, and it can mess with your ability to trust people, create paranoia and anxiety, and or even give you the symptoms of PTSD.
You need to know how to protect your phone from hacking, and you need to know how to protect yourself if you suspect that somebody is following your movements. Stalking behaviors can include things like threats of violence, hacking your devices, asking people about you to gather information about you, loitering outside your home, turning up and bombarding you with text messages, emails, and cyberstalking – it’s quite the list. Here are some of the ways that you can protect yourself from stalking.
Call the police. The most obvious beginning if you believe you are being stalked is to call the authorities and get help. The majority of people who are being stalked know who the stalkers are, one of the best things that you can do for yourself is to seek help from somebody that you can trust to keep you safe and report to the authorities as well.
Stop communicating with them. If you suspect that somebody is following you or trying to learn more about your whereabouts, then stop communicating with them. Stop emailing, stop texting, and change your phone number if necessary. Put the important phone numbers for people you can trust on speed dial, two because then you’ll be able to dial the numbers at the touch of a button from your pocket if necessary.
Lock down your social media. You should be very vigilant about the type of information that you put on the Internet anyway, if you believe you are being stalked then hiding from view and removing any pictures or location settings is important. This way, you will be in the best position to protect yourself from online stalking. You don’t want somebody to know what your movements are even from a distance, because this is going to be invasive.
Trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right the chances are that it’s not right. If you feel like something is not quite right at any given moment, ask for help. Ask the security of your office building to walk you to your car, and ask somebody to walk with you on your commute. Arrange for a taxi pick-up service at the same time every day so that you can be sure that you are being protected no matter where you go.
Have a panic button in your home. If it has got to the point that somebody keeps turning up at your front door because I have learned your address, you need to have a panic button installed in your home so that you can contact the authorities in an instant. You shouldn’t have to live in fear.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Fun Facts
Hi, thanks for stopping by today. I love hearing your comments each week. We learn some interesting things.
Queen Elizabeth II can’t sit on the Iron Throne from Game of Thrones.
An apple, potato, and onion taste the same if you eat them with your nose plugged.
The longest word you’re likely to encounter on an everyday basis is “uncharacteristically.”
A company in Poland makes dinnerware out of wheat so that you can eat your plate!
The average person walks the equivalent of five times around the world in their lifetime.
Enjoy!
Melinda
Reference:
Friday Quote 8/19/2022
Hey! So glad you stopped by today, I look forward to your comments each week.
Melinda
World Humanitarian Day 19th
It takes a village
There is a saying that goes: It takes a village to raise a child. Similarly, it takes a village to support a person in a humanitarian crisis. With record-high humanitarian needs around the world, this year’s World Humanitarian Day (WHD) builds on this metaphor of collective endeavour to grow global appreciation of humanitarian work
Whenever and wherever people are in need, there are others who help them. They are the affected people themselves – always first to respond when disaster strikes – and a global community that supports them as they recover. Far from the spotlight and out of the headlines, they come together to ease suffering and bring hope.
Background
On 19 August 2003, a bomb attack on the Canal Hotel in Baghdad, Iraq, killed 22 humanitarian aid workers, including the UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Iraq, Sergio Vieira de Mello. Five years later, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution designating 19 August as World Humanitarian Day (WHD).
Each year, WHD focuses on a theme, bringing together partners from across the humanitarian system to advocate for the survival, well-being and dignity of people affected by crises, and for the safety and security of aid workers.
For this year’s WHD, we show the importance, effectiveness and positive impact of humanitarian work.
WHD is a campaign by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).
- In 2021, 460 aid workers were attacked: 140 killed, 203 wounded and 117 kidnapped.
- Of the aid workers who died, 98% were national staff and 2% were international (expatriate) staff – more than half (53%) were staff of national NGOs.
- Most of the violence took place in South Sudan, Afghanistan and Syria.
- Casualties are expected to rise significantly in 2022 due to the war in Ukraine, where rocket attacks and shelling threaten civilians and aid providers equally.
- The 2021 Humanitarian Needs Overview estimated that 20.7 million (67% of the population) people need humanitarian assistance, 12.1 million of whom are estimated to be in acute need, which makes Yemen the largest humanitarian crisis in the world.
Additional Resources
Documents
- Convention on the Safety of United Nations and Associated Personnel
- General Assembly resolution (A/RES/63/139) on Strengthening of the coordination of emergency humanitarian assistance of the United Nations (establishing World Humanitarian Day)
- General Assembly resolution on the Safety and security of humanitarian personnel and protection of United Nations personnel
- Report of the Secretary-General on the Safety and security of United Nations and associated personnel
- Human Security 2014-2017 Strategic Plan
Related websites
Please check out the great resources to find information on how to educate and participate.
Melinda
National Immunization Awareness Month
Get Back on Track with Routine Vaccines
National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) is an annual observance held in August to highlight the importance of vaccination for people of all ages. Use these resources to assist you in communicating about vaccinations during August and throughout the year.
Resources:
This week Polio was found in an American city. That’s crazy, we had wiped out Polio in this country.
Vaccines are more important today than ever. Not only do we need a yearly Flu shot, but we need a wide range of vaccines like Polio, Measles, and Covid, All the required vaccines for kids of school age. As we reach 65 years old, you will need a Pneumonia and Shingles shot.
If you are immune-compromised your doctor may have you take your Pneumonia and Shildgles shots early. I had to take mine early because of my health. Both are a two-shot dose and the Shingles hurt for a couple of days but are much better than getting Shingles.
Melinda
References:
National Airborne Day 16th
National Airborne Day, August 16th, is a day of celebration for the accomplishments, bravery, and service of the Army parachute tradition. In 2001, President George W. Bush proclaimed this date to be the annual day to respect airborne activity in honor of the Airborne Rangers. Then following in 2009 the Senate made full recognition of the holiday through Resolution 235. National Airborne Day is on this specific date for this was the day of the first-ever United States military parachuting attempt.
Army parachuting was introduced as a tactic in combat following World War I. The first person in service to notice this style of combat was Brigadier General William Mitchell brought up the notion of trying this tactic. Then to quote Benjamin Franklin who stated, “Ten Thousand Men descending from the Clouds…”, agreed with Mitchell and advocated for this strategy for it brought a new look to combat.
The first parachute jump was completed by the United States Army on August 16th, 1940 to test and see how effective it could be in combat. The first unit of paratroopers was a collective group of 48 soldiers of the 29th Infantry Regiment who would do their training in Fort Benning, Georgia. The biggest question of this new tactic was will it be safe to drop in soldiers behind enemy lines. This new form of attack from the air was seen as dangerous but ultimately has become a critical and successful tactic in combat strategy.
National Airborne Day is a way to celebrate and appreciate ones who are brave enough to do these acts, but there are other ways of honoring the ones who make these heroic jumps. All soldiers in current duty and those who are veterans may receive medals and badges for their service in airborne activities. The medals and badges range from a lot of acts of duty, like training at Fort Benning, being certified to jump and participate in active duty as a paratrooper you receive an Army Parachute Badge for the service that is being done.
Melinda
Reference:
https://www.medalsofamerica.com/blog/national-airborne-day/
4 Activities To Try While Camping
Are you thinking about going camping with your kids? This can be a great way to reconnect with your family and ensure that you escape the pressures of urban society. You might be worried that you’re going to be bored while camping or that your kids are going to be agitated. However, this is not the case. Below, we’ll reveal some of the awesome activities that you can try while you are camping with the kids.
Fishing
First, you should think about going fishing. Fishing is a great way to relax while you are camping. You might think that fishing is something that you can only do if you have the right level of skill or experience. In reality, anyone can go fishing and have a lovely time. You just need to make sure that you have the right level of patience and don’t end up getting annoyed when you don’t catch fish straight away. You should also check the local regulations which may encourage you to release any fish that you catch back into the wild.
Wild Water Swimming
Another activity you can explore is wild water swimming. Wild water swimming describes swimming in any open stretch of water that is not man-made. This could include anything from a river to the ocean or perhaps a lake. You just need to make sure that wherever you are planning to swim is safe and won’t leave you in peril. You also need to make sure that you are a strong enough swimmer to manage the currents and you should never risk going wild swimming alone.
Off-Roading
Next, you should consider going off-roading with the kids. This is one activity that they are guaranteed to absolutely adore. Off-roading can include the use of the best UTV. It’s worth checking the reviews and different vehicles on the market before settling on the right one for your family.
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking is an awesome activity for you to try when you’re camping in the mountains. Take the bikes with you on the back of your car, and get ready for an experience that will blow your mind. It’s difficult to get the hang of because of the steepness of the mountain on your way up, but the adrenaline rush on the way down is something that you will never forget.
The point of mountain biking is to find tough terrain, making it a bumpy and more difficult ride. You will have to control your bike as best you can, keeping yourself upright at all times.
We hope that you have found this article helpful, and now see some of the fun activities that you can try while you are camping. Try to make this as fun and adventurous as you can for everyone involved, as who knows when you’re going to get the opportunity to head out on this kind of adventure again? We wish you the very best of luck and hope that you have the best time ever on your camping trip.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Blogger Highlight-You Really Reddit
Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week I highlight a new blogger, You Really Reddit.
YouReallyReddit
Amanda Redd holds a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education. She is a fourth-grade teacher in Florida. Amongst teaching, she is a wife est. 2013, and a mother of two boys.
Amanda enjoys writing specifically about life experiences that she believes that others can relate to and benefit from.
This blog is a no-judgment zone where you can get an honest take on all things that life throws your way.
Be sure to check out her blog.
Melinda
These Habits will Help you to Become More Financially Stable
Do you want to try and make sure that you are as financially stable as possible? If so, you have come to the right place. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about the changes you should be making, while also helping you to be much more aware of how your finances are affecting you.
Get an Emergency Fund
You have to do whatever you can to keep your family as secure as possible. The first step here would be for you to build an emergency fund. If you can do this, then you know that if anything happens, you have the money. If you have dependents, then you should think about taking out life insurance and even getting a will. If you need to make some changes here because you are going through a divorce, then it could be worth trying to hire a divorce financial analyst.
Avoid Debt
You have to do what you can to avoid debt where possible. If you have a credit card, a personal loan, or other kinds of debt, then now would be the time for you to try and get a debt elimination plan. You need to arrange your debts from the smallest to the biggest too. You can then focus on paying off the most important ones. When you have cleared one debt, you then need to put that money towards paying off the next one. If you can do this, then you will soon find that it is easier than ever for you to become more financially stable, so be mindful of this if you can.
Use the Envelope System
This is a brilliant way for you to try and keep track of how much money you have when it comes to spending. If you can make three envelopes when it comes to your payday, then you will have one for your groceries, one for your gas, and one for luxuries. If you can withdraw this amount on payday, then you will be able to make sure that you do not go over. If you run out of money, then you will find out immediately and this will help you to no end.
Pay your Bills
You have to pay your bills right away. One very good habit for you to get into would be for you to pay your bills ASAP. You also need to try and have as many of your bills paid automatically, as this will stop you from forgetting about them. Use your bank’s online checking system so you can make a lot of regular payments. If you can do this, then you know that you have everything taken care of and this will work in your favor overall.
Grow your Worth
Another thing that you need to do is try and grow your net worth. One way that you can do this would be for you to reduce your debt while also increasing your savings. Look out for various ways to make money or to get paid more for the work that you do. If you can do this, then you will soon find that it is easier than ever for you to get the result you are looking for.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Out Sick Today
I’ve been sick with a virus since Monday and still struggling. I’m headed back to bed so all we have is Today in History.
Hope to feel better, and be able to get vertical again tomorrow.
Have a great day.
Melinda
Fun Facts
Hi, thanks for stopping by today. I love hearing your comments each week. We learn some interesting things.
The first alarm clock could only ring at 4 am.
A goat called William Windsor served as a Lance Corporal in the British Army.
The most venomous jellyfish in the world is the Irukandji.
March 20th is known as Snowman Burning Day.
Some insects and small birds see the world in slow motion.
Enjoy!
Melinda
Reference:
Friday Quote 8/12/2022
Hey! So glad you stopped by today, I look forward to your comments each week.
Melinda
Looking for the Light 