Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health

New Blogs To Follow In 2022

I’ve found several great sites you might want to check out and follow in 2022. I talked with each about why they started their blog and what they hope to accomplish in 2022? See what they had to say.

Terri Sulta at Olive Tree Saints

I started Olive Tree Saints to help equip Christ-followers for readiness to serve God by helping them cultivate wellness and grow in their faith.

In 2022, I want to develop tools that anyone can use to improve their overall wellness, even if their physical health isn’t ideal.

Cathy at Happy Healthy Me – a Journey

I started my blog in April 2021 because I realised that I wanted to make positive changes in my life and I’d begun researching the little things I could do on a day to day basis. The more I read and discovered, the more I realised that these ‘tiny tweaks’ would help me to move forward towards a healthier and happier life. The idea of sharing them in a blog literally happened overnight!

My aim for 2022 is to continue learning and sharing my journey and hopefully helping others. I want to continue with a range of topics but all of them helping us move towards a more positive life and better relationships one ‘tiny tweak’ at a time.

Genevieve Cruz at Gifted And Chilling 

I originally started my blog as a way to share my creative writing (flash fiction) and to meet other bloggers. It’s been a wonderful experience and I love reading everyone’s stories and creativity.

In 2022, I hope to accomplish writing a few personal letters to loved ones, using a new typewriter that my best friend gifted me.

Nessa Rose at The Mental Minute

I started my blog actually for a college project, I am graduating with a Bachelor’s in creative writing this April. I chose to focus on mental health because I suffer from anxiety and depression and wanted to make a difference in other people’s lives.

I hope that for 2022 I can accomplish finishing my degree and being a successful writer. But most of all, I would love for my writing to make a difference in someone’s life and inspire them!

Danielle at The Daily Addict 

Why did I start my blog? Honestly it came to me on a whim. It was a holiday weekend and I was stuck inside due to the rain. Something literally said you should write a blog about the daily life of an addict in recovery. So I started. I write my truth every day. Some is pretty and some is not. I write about how I stay clean and what beauty there is in recovery. Because it is miraculous.

What I hope to accomplish in 2022?
Well, I have noticed that my writings are helpful to not only addicts but to the families and friends that are affected by this horrible disease. My goal would be to bring more awareness and understanding to anyone who is affected and confused by the disease of addiction.

Just for Relaxation

Vova Zinger 

Cindy Knoke

Mijnnikonik

Live and Learn

There are thousands of great blogs in the blog-o-sphere, this is a short list to keep an eye on. 

Please check out the sites and give them a follow. You have only knowledge and loads of fun to gain.

Melinda

Looking for the Light

@lookinglight

Celebrate Life · Fun · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Just Ducky

This is a great little park by the house I love to visit. There’s always plenty of ducks and squirrels to watch.

When was the last time you went to the park?

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Fun · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health

Keeping Yourself On Track With Your Fitness

Everyone wants to be as fit and healthy as possible, but this is not always as easy to achieve as you might hope. If you are keen to be fit but you often struggle to keep yourself on track with regard to that fitness, you are not alone. This is a very common experience and one which you can improve easily enough if you know how best to approach it. In this post, we are going to take a look at some of the most powerful ways to keep yourself on track with your fitness, so you can enjoy the feeling of good health and physical wellbeing that this will bring.

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.com

Keep A Diary

It might sound a little corny, but keeping a diary really is one of the best ways to keep yourself on track with pretty much anything, and that certainly applies to when you are trying to be more fit. If you are keen to do this, you might want to consider doing it as a blog, as feeling that other people might be reading it can add even more to the experience and encourage you to keep on track all the more. Take a look here for a web host, and then set up your site and blog, and start typing.

Be Clear About Your Goals

We all know that having goals is a good way to ensure you are moving in the right direction and achieving what you need to achieve. But you need to make sure that they are accurate and clear goals, and that you actually know what you hope to get out of them, otherwise you might struggle to actually use those goals as inspiration and you might end up simply falling off the wagon again. So be really clear about what you want to achieve, in what timescale, and you are going to find this really helps.

Track Your Progress

You’ll also want to think about tracking the actual hard data relating to your fitness – such as how your body weight is changing, how much you are able to deadlift each time, and so on. The more effectively you track this, the better, as you are going to find that it allows you to see how far you have already come, and therefore encourages you to continue. Without this kind of data by your side, you might find yourself feeling that you are getting nowhere, so this can really make a huge difference.

All in all, it’s all about enjoying it – and if you are not enjoying it, then what’s the point? That doesn’t mean that every moment is fun, but it does mean that you should feel that, on the whole, you are doing what you need to be doing in order to have fun with it. If you neer feel that you are having fun, you are probably not approaching it in the right way, so this is something to focus on from the start of your process.

This is a collaborative post.

Melinda

Repost

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health

What Your Body Needs To Stay Healthy-Physical Health

We all know our physical health is important to us but for many reasons we don’t make it a priority. I am guilty here, I walk but not enough and I don’t get any cardio which I know is bad.

So what are the basics we need to stay healthy without being freaky about it?

A healthy lifestyle can help you thrive throughout your life. Making healthy choices isn’t always easy, however. It can be hard to find the time and energy to exercise regularly or prepare healthy meals. However, your efforts will pay off in many ways, and for the rest of your life. Be physically active for 30 minutes most days of the week.

If you’re not sure about becoming active or boosting your level of physical activity because you’re afraid of getting hurt, the good news is that moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, is generally safe for most people.

Read about the benefits for improving your brain health, weight management, reducing disease, strengthening your bones and muscles, and improving your ability to do everyday activities.

If you have not been physically active in a while, you may be wondering how to get started again. Find more tips here to get started with physical activity for a healthy weight.

Learn more about what works and how physical activity can improve your health.

You don’t have to do high amounts of activity or vigorous-intensity activity to reduce your risk of premature death. Benefits start to accumulate with any amount of moderate- or vigorous-intensity physical activity.

From reducing the amount of time we sit still, to including strengthening exercises, here are the main things to know from the WHO for everyone:

six main recommendations from the new guidance

We can all do a little more each day and remember all activity counts. Work up to your goal slowly and don’t beat yourself up if you don’t make it one week. just back on track.

Melinda

References:

https://www.ucsfhealth.org/education/tips-for-staying-healthy

https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pa-health/index.htm

https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/12/physical-activity-who-exercise-health/

Celebrate Life · Fun · Men & Womens Health

How To Make Green Beer

Many of you will be going green for St. Patrick’s day Thursday and I thought what a fun way to celebrate than to make your own green beverages.

Photo by Pressmaster on Pexels.com

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces beer
  • 1 drop green food coloring

Steps to Make It

Gather the ingredients.

Add 1 drop of green food coloring to a clear glass.

Pour the beer into the glass. Serve immediately

Tip

Liquid food coloring works best for this recipe. Avoid gel and paste food colorings since they won’t readily mix into the cold beer.

Melinda

Reference:

https://www.thespruceeats.com/green-beer-recipe-353182

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health

How Do Children Learn Through Play? Guest Blogger

Bryan Dunst's avatarBryan Dunst's WordPress Site

Children learn through play. Play is one of how children acquire knowledge and skills. They use their five senses to explore surroundings, experiment with new things, venture into social situations and interact with each other and their environment. So what are some of the different ways children learn through play? Take a look at this article for more information on this topic!

How do Children Learn through Play?

The first stage of learning is simply exploration, where children investigate their environment, play with objects to familiarize themselves with a new setting or situation, and generally figure out what is going on around them. Later on, this exploration can evolve to allow the child to act out a role or develop their personality. This stage can be observed in babies and toddlers, who are usually fully engaged in play andexploration.

Children also explore and develop their skills through playing…

View original post 264 more words

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Get The Be There Certificate And Up Your Mental Health Knowledge

Welcome to the Be There Certificate. This course will teach you how to recognize when someone might be struggling with their mental health and how to safely support them while maintaining your own mental health.

Created by Jack.org and Born this Way Foundation.

Photo by Lisa Fotios on Pexels.com

The Be There Certificate is a free, digital, self-paced learning experience designed to increase mental health literacy and provide youth with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to safely support anyone who may be struggling with their mental health. It will provide a deep understanding of Be There’s 5 Golden Rules — a simple but actionable framework teaching people how to recognize when someone might be struggling with their mental health, their role in supporting that person, and how to connect them to the help they need. The Be There Certificate is available in English, French and Spanish, offering universal best practices while diving deeper into the intersections of culture, identity, and social determinants of mental wellness.

About Jack.org

Jack.org is Canada’s only charity training and empowering young leaders to revolutionize mental health in every province and territory. Through Jack Talks, Jack Chapters, and Jack Summits, young leaders identify and dismantle barriers to positive mental health in their communities. And through ambitious innovations in youth mental health like Be There, we give people the mental health resources they need to educate themselves. We’re working towards a Canada where all young people understand how to take care of their own mental health and look out for each other. A Canada without shame, where all those who need support get the help they deserve.

IG FB TW TK YT

About Born This Way Foundation

Born This Way Foundation, co-founded and led by Lady Gaga and her mother, Cynthia Germanotta, supports the mental health of young people and works with them to build a kinder and braver world. Through high-impact programming, youth-led conversations, and strategic, cross-sectoral partnerships, the Foundation aims to make kindness cool, validate the emotions of young people, and eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health. Learn how the Foundation encourages people to practice kindness towards themselves and their communities at bornthisway.foundation and learn more about its storytelling platform Channel Kindness at channelkindness.org.

IG FB TW TK YT

 

I took the course and found it very helpful and think you will find a nugget or two.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Let me Introduce you to my Badass Bodyguard — Guest Blogger Don’t Lose Hope

“She threw away all of her masks, and put on her soul.” The comedian Duncan Trussel has been quoted as saying that when you first meet him, you meet his bodyguard. And I think this is true for many of us. My personal bodyguard is very pleasant and warm. She’ll show an interest in you, […]

Let me Introduce you to my Badass Bodyguard — Don’t Lose Hope
Celebrate Life · Fun · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Musical Support For Ukraine*George Michael, Elton John – Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me (Live)

Let’s not let the sun go down on Ukraine without standing right beside each of them!

Melinda

Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health

National Sleep Awareness Week 13-19th

This annual event celebrates sleep health and encourages all of us to prioritize our sleep to improve overall well being and health. This awareness week was established in 1998 by the National Sleep Foundation.

 

“National Sleep Foundation’s Sleep Awareness Week is a cornerstone program that’s part of our work to help the public be their Best Slept Self™,” says National Sleep Foundation CEO John Lopos. “Healthy sleep can be achieved through actions we take during the day and at night to ensure we get enough quality sleep to be at our best.”

Sleep Awareness Week 2022 is supported by unrestricted funds from Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Eisai, Inc., Huckleberry, Avadel Pharmaceuticals, PureCare, Apnimed, and Harmony Biosciences. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Safety Council are helping to promote NSF’s healthy sleep messages. NSF independently produces Sleep Awareness Week, the Sleep in America Poll, and all related official educational content. Sleep health resources for the public are available at www.TheNSF.org.  

About the National Sleep Foundation

The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice.

Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial and an essential function that allows your body and mind to recharge. Healthy sleep is needed to help your body stave off diseases. When you do not get enough sleep, your brain cannot function properly impairing your ability to concentrate and think clearly.

There are multiple health effects that can occur due to lack of sleep. Adults 18-64 should have 7- 9 hours of sleep a night while adults 64+ need 7- 8 hours. Children need a lot more rest. The younger someone is the more rest their body needs to replenish itself. People who sleep less than seven hours a night are more likely to develop obesity. There is a higher risk of diabetes when getting too little sleep (less than 7 hours) and too much sleep (9 or more hours).

Everyone can make some adjustments in their daily lives to get better rest.

Ask your health care provider for a referral with a sleep professional to know if you need to change any of your sleeping habits. At the National Sleep Foundation website you can take their online poll to see if you have any sleeping disorders.

Melinda

References:

National Sleep Foundation Announces Sleep Awareness Week® 2022 Dates

https://www.pchc.org/news-features/march-2022/national-sleep-awareness-week.html#:~:text=March%2013%20-%2019th%2C%202022%20is%20National%20Sleep,established%20in%201998%20by%20the%20National%20Sleep%20Foundation.

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health

World Ovarian Cancer Awareness Day

World Ovarian Cancer Awareness Day was yesterday March 8th, 2022. I missed posting but feel strongly that this topic needs to be discussed. It’s very common for women to get Ovarian Cancer and knowing the signs is important to your health.

Who Gets Ovarian Cancer?

  • The lifetime risk of ovarian cancer is 1 out of every 78 women, or 1.3 percent.
  • The risk is greater in individuals with a family history of ovarian, colorectal, or breast cancer.
  • Inherited mutations (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2) are thought to contribute to about 20 percent of ovarian cancer cases.

Types

There are more than 30 different types of ovarian cancer, grouped into three categories by the type of cell where the malignancy begins.

  • Epithelial: About 90 percent of ovarian cancers are epithelial ovarian carcinomas. In this type of cancer, the malignant tumor originates in the surface epithelial tissue, which is on the outside of the ovary. The risk of epithelial ovarian cancer increases with age, especially after the age of 50.
  • Germ Cell: These tumors start from the cells that produce the individual eggs. Germ cell tumors are rare, accounting for 5 percent of all ovarian cancers. They usually occur in girls and women younger than 30 years of age. They are usually caught at an early stage and have high survival rates.
  • Sex Cord Stromal: These tumors develop in the connective tissues that hold the ovary together and produce male or female hormones. Sex cord stromal tumors are relatively rare, accounting for 5 percent of all ovarian cancers, and are generally less aggressive than other ovarian tumors.

Symptoms

In the past, it was thought that ovarian cancer had no symptoms and was known as the “silent” killer.  However, according to research conducted by Dr. Barbara Goff, professor and chair of the UW Division of Gynecologic Oncology and SCCA physician, early symptoms may be present in many women, but just missed or not noticed. There are early warning symptoms of ovarian cancer, according to Dr. Goff. But they often go unnoticed because they are often vague symptoms that people may experience off and on normally. Some of the symptoms include abdominal swelling, pain, bloating, a feeling of fullness even after a light meal, a change in bowel habits, frequent urination, and loss of appetite. You may also notice irregular bleeding, or bleeding with intercourse. “If these are new symptoms that persist for at least three weeks, you should talk to your doctor,” Dr. Goff says.

Risk factors

The risk of ovarian cancer increases with age, especially at around the age of menopause. A family history of ovarian cancer is the most important risk factor. A family history of breast cancer may also increase your risk. Other factors that may increase your risk include:

  • A personal history of breast, endometrial, or colon cancer or Lynch syndrome
  • A history of infertility, or the use of fertility drugs
  • Ashkenazi Jewish heritage
  • A mutation or abnormal change in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene (known as the breast-ovarian susceptibility gene).

Know your risk factors and the signs to look for, Ovarian Cancer is very treatable if caught early. I had a history of Ovarian Cancer on both sides of my family, when I had Cervical Cancer and needed a hysterectomy, the doctors recommended I have my ovaries removed as well due to the high risk of cancer. I took their recommendation!

Melinda

References:

https://www.seattlecca.org/diseases/ovarian-cancer/facts

Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

The Perfect Morning Routine for a Productive Day

If you’re looking to have a productive day, it’s essential to start off on the right foot. A good morning routine can set the tone for the rest of your day and help you achieve your goals. This blog post will discuss the perfect morning routine for a productive day. We’ll cover everything from waking up early to eating breakfast and getting dressed for work. Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to having a successful day!

Photo by Karolina Grabowska on Pexels.com

1) Wake up early

One of the most important parts of a productive morning routine is waking up early. This gives you extra time to get things done and start your day on a positive note. If you’re not a morning person, try setting your alarm clock for 15 minutes earlier than usual and gradually increasing the time until you’re able to wake up at your desired time.

Waking up early has been shown to have numerous benefits, including improved mood, increased productivity, and more time for healthy activities like exercise. So if you want to set yourself up for success, make sure to wake up early!

2) Eat breakfast

Another important part of a productive morning routine is eating breakfast. Breakfast provides your body with the energy it needs to start the day, and it can also help you focus and concentrate better. If you’re not a fan of traditional breakfast foods, there are plenty of healthy alternatives that will still give you the nutrients you need to power through your day.

Some quick and healthy breakfast ideas include: 

-Oatmeal with fruit

eggs in purgatory with Italian sausage

-Yogurt with granola and berries

-Smoothie bowl made with fruits and vegetables

-Eggs or egg whites

-Bagel with peanut butter or jelly

-Pancakes or waffles made from whole grain flour

Make sure to eat a balanced breakfast that includes protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. This will help you stay energized throughout the day.

3) Get dressed for work

Another important part of a productive morning routine is getting dressed for work. This may seem like a small task, but it can make a big difference in your day. When you’re getting dressed for work, take the time to pick out an outfit that makes you feel confident and comfortable. This will help you exude positive energy and be more productive throughout the day.

If you’re not sure what to wear, try planning your outfits ahead of time or keeping a few staple pieces in your closet that always make you feel great. A little effort in the morning can go a long way! 

4) Make a to-do list

Another great way to start your day is by making a to-do list. This will help you organize your thoughts and clearly see what tasks need to be completed. When you’re able to see what needs to be done visually, it’s easier to take action and stay focused throughout the day.

To make a productive to-do list, try using the following tips:

-Break down large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps

-Include both short-term and long-term goals

-Set deadlines for each task

When you follow these tips, you’ll be able to create a compelling and productive to-do list that will help you achieve your goals! 

The perfect morning routine for a productive day doesn’t have to be complicated. Just a few simple steps can make a big difference in your day-to-day life. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to having a successful and productive day!

This is a collaborative post.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Staying Toasty

Today is barely above freezing and it is sleeting outside. What a great day for a fire in my office with some self-care time by meditating by the fire.

 

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

March 2022 Awareness Dates

I hope you will take a moment to check out the links below to see how they may help you or someone you know.

World Water Day
World TB Day
World Kidney Day
World Book Day
University Mental Health Day
Self Injury Awareness Day
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
No Smoking Day
National Sleep Awareness Week
National Doctors’ Day
International Women’s Day
Endometriosis Awareness Month
Downs Syndrome Awareness Week

Have a great day.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Book Review of Overcome by Alice Tayler

I was kindly gifted a copy of Overcome by Alice Tayler from Soraya Nair at Cherish Editions for a review.  Thank you, Soraya.  


 

Cherish Editions 

Published 2021

168 pages

Blurb

For Alice Tayler, the only way to get attention in a family plagued by mental ill health was to hurt herself – at least, that’s what Munchausen syndrome led her to believe.

Overcome paints a jarring picture of what Tayler’s life has been like with this psychological condition, one that has caused her to feign illness or pain to get others to care for her. While her story may be tough to read at times, it’s an important one to be told, considering how hard it can be to understand Munchausen syndrome from the outside looking in.

My Thoughts

Most of us have heard of Munchausen By Proxy, which is where a parent or caregiver hurts or makes a child sick in order to gain attention. Did you know there is another type of Munchausen? It’s called Munchausen Syndrome. This illness is where the person hurts themself in order to gain attention from others. Alice started hurting herself for attention at a young age, as young as she can remember.

Alice’s family had a dark secret that may have laid the foundation for her illness. While talking with a family member all the details of the secrets are relived. Her grandfather was a child molester, who was arrested and went to trial. He had also molested all of his female children and including Alice as a very young child. She has vague memories.  As Alice uncovers all the ugly secrets on the internet she now has a better understanding of her family dynamics.

The book has many twists in turns as Alice interacts with family members about the truth and has to bury her mother. There are so many emotions left unresolved. 

Munchausen Syndrome is rare and can be hard to identify. All Alice knew was she was not a monster who abused her child or hurt her in any way but didn’t understand the complexities of her illness. 

“You never know how strong you are until being strong is your only choice.” – Bob Marley”

Excerpt From
Overcome
Alice Tayler

I thought the use of the quote was profound, and one she could certainly say she faced. 

I recommend this book to anyone who is interested in medical knowledge and a good mental health story with a positive ending. 

Cherish Editions

Cherish Editions is the self-publishing division of Trigger Publishing, the UK’s leading independent mental health and wellbeing publisher.

We are experienced in creating and selling positive, responsible, important and inspirational books, which work to de-stigmatise the issues around mental health, as well as helping people who read them to maintain and improve their mental health and wellbeing. By choosing to publish through Cherish Editions, you will get the expertise of the dedicated Trigger Team at every step of the process.

We are proud of what we do, and passionate about the books that we publish. We want to do the very best for you and your book, holding your hand every step of the way.

Enjoy Reading

Melinda

Looking for the Light

@LookingLight

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

International Women’s Day March 8th

International Women’s Day (IWD), day (March 8) honouring the achievements of women and promoting women’s rights. A national holiday in numerous countries, it has been sponsored by the United Nations (UN) since 1975.

Photo by mentatdgt on Pexels.com

International Women’s Day (IWD) grew out of efforts in the early 20th century to promote women’s rights, especially suffrage. In its campaign for female enfranchisement, the Socialist Party of America in 1909 held the first National Woman’s Day, which was highlighted by mass meetings across the United States; the day was observed until 1913. Encouraged by German activist Clara Zetkin, the International Socialist Congress agreed in 1910 to create an international version of the U.S. holiday, and on March 19, 1911, the first IWD was held in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland. More than one million people attended rallies marking the day. In the ensuing years the IWD was celebrated in additional countries and on varying dates. On March 8 (February 24, Old Style), 1917, women in Petrograd (St. Petersburg), Russia, marked the day by staging a strike to protest food shortages, poor living conditions, and World War I. This strike for “bread and peace” helped give rise to the Russian Revolution of 1917, which led to the abdication of Nicholas II on March 15 (March 2). In 1921 the date of the IWD was officially changed to March 8.

The most influential woman in my life was my Granny. No one shaped me more than her. She stood like a rock, worked hard and when the going was tough, she worked harder. She lead by example and was consistent as clockwork. She was my mother from the day I was born, she watched over me. I remember when as a little girl she would give me a bath, then wrap me in a towel and take me to the bed and rub powder all over. It was such a loving moment that created a lasting memory.  

We all have women in our life to celebrate, who’ve been there for us in good times and bad, taught us valuable life lessons, and given us the mentorship we’ve needed. I’ve been very fortunate to have several strong women in my past and present. My therapist is one, she’s been a solid supporter for over 30 years. When I was younger and in trouble, I had a probation officer who went out of her way to keep me out of jail and was able to get the help I needed.

I have many other great women from work that have influenced me and I thank them all.

Melinda

Reference:

https://www.britannica.com/topic/International-Womens-Day

Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

What To Think About When Buying A New House

Buying a house, whether that be your first home or you have bought it before, is a big step in your life. It is going to be one of if not the biggest investments you will make in your life, so getting it right is really important, not only financially but for your mental health too. There is nothing worse than feeling trapped with a purchase that you just do not like, without the means to rectify it or to sell it and start again. This is why knowing what to look for and what to think about when buying a house is really important.

Not everyone knows what to think about when buying a home, even if you have bought a home before there are things you could overlook, if you are unsure what to look for when buying a home then hopefully, these few tips will help you to understand it better.

Photo by Vecislavas Popa on Pexels.com

Do your research 

When it comes to buying a house it can be easy to just jump at the one you like the most without really taking into consideration any other factors. It is a wise idea to speak to a real estate agent and consider looking into Concierge Auctions reviews to ensure that the property you buy is a fair price and finds the best auction opportunity.

 You need to look at things like amenities such as what shops are available nearby, whether there are schools should you have a family and if there are parks and things to do where you live. All of these things need to be researched when looking into where to move so that you know you are not only going to get the house you want but also a great area to live in.

What sort of property do you want?

When it comes to finding a new home you need to look into what sort of property you want and what you want including the property. For example, should you want some outdoor space or a garden then narrow your search by looking for apartments with outdoor spaces, or if you want a garage then make sure you are filtering your searches to find this then you are going to make sure you end up a property that is perfect for you and what you want? This is a big investment so try not to settle for something you do not necessarily want. 

The affordability

Something that can be overlooked when looking to buy a house is what you can actually afford. You don’t have to spend more just because you are selling your house, you could save the money made on the sale and buy a cheaper property. Also make sure when you are looking at buying a house you know what work needs to be done on that house if any, as that needs to be factored into the overall cost of you buying the house. If you do not factor in all costs when it comes to buying you could end up short of what you need or having to borrow more than you would have wanted or can afford to.

If you are looking to buy a new property, this could be your first home or second home, it can be hard to know what you should be thinking about and what to look out for when buying your home so these few tips should help you to understand what you can do to make sure you make the best decision when buying your new home.

This is a collaborative post.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Fun · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

5 Luxurious Ways to Make Your Back Yard Your Own

There are many mental health benefits to a backyard oasis for your family. And there are just as many luxurious ways to make your backyard somewhere you won’t want to leave.

Photo by Maria Orlova on Pexels.com

Your Very Own Bar

A fantastic way to upcycle your old outdoor shed is to cut a hole on the side and place a surface on it. Then you can install an at-home beer pump for pulling the perfect pint in your own garden. This is a simple design, but one that works. But with some crafty DIY work and creativity, you can install a sound system, lighting, and even cooking facilities. Of course, no shed company wants you to butcher their creations, so reusing an old one is best. Just make sure you give it a thorough cleaning, inside and out, and make sure it’s safe for purpose before you go sitting at it.

A Deck to Proud Of

Nothing makes a good garden shine like the installation of high-quality decking. Wood and the backyard just go superb together, and you can make many great memories sitting among the scent of wood and flowers on long Summer nights. Additionally, decking can add a lot of value to your home’s value should you consider selling later on. First, however, make sure you use a reputable builder. Poor decking is dangerous. Splinters, loose boards, and even collapse are real possibilities. And a lousy installation isn’t likely to last long either.

Heat and Bubbles

You can relax and have fun in a hot tub. So much fun, in fact, that since coming to market in the late 1950s in the USA, around 6 million have been sold all over the country. Hot tubs are excellent no matter your age. They can provide an intimate way of relaxing for couples and friends. And the kids love the bubbles. However, there are multiple health benefits as well. The heat helps soothe aching muscles, and bubbles help with tension. Some medical experts believe the effects of a hot tub to be somewhere around the same as a professional massage.

An Outdoor Cinema

How fun is your very own outdoor cinema? Cozying up on a warm night under the stars with a movie and a drink with your partner is nothing short of amazing. And if you have kids, well, they will just go nuts for something like this. You can purchase an HD projector for very little these days, and some even work with your phone. And a screen isn’t required either. Just a sheet and something to hold it. But before going and doing this, make sure you are far enough from your neighbors, or the sounds of Bridget Jones doing Bridget Jones stuff might not end well.

Fire Pit Arrangement

Being outdoors evokes memories of nature and a primal sense of social atmosphere. One of the most primal elements is fire. Fire is dangerous, but it can be tamed when treated with respect and controlled. A fire pit makes an excellent centerpiece for your garden, and you can make one for very little money. You can buy premade pits with various designs. Or you could use an old washing machine drum, a barrel, or even a tire. Then arrange your rattan or wicker furniture around the centerpiece for an intimate and sophisticated addition to your backyard tranquility.

Summary

Your backyard is an extension of your home and yourself. So, it would help if you spent time making it special. But, gardening aside, you can add luxuries such as a bar, hot tub, or even a cinema.

This is a collaborative post.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Fun · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Prayers for Ukraine

The Sunflower is the national flower and I love them. The situation is dire in Ukraine but the people are resilient and with our help, they can continue to stand strong. 

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Photo by Peter Fazekas on Pexels.com

You can go to Charity Navigator and find a reputable charity that supports the Ukrainian Refugees and show your support. 

Please say a prayer, whatever your religion is, please say a prayer for the people of Ukraine and the surrounding countries who are helping them. 

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Fun · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

What Self-Care Looks Like

I think self-care is critical to our mental health and it’s important to do something every day to water the growth. Here’s a little something I did for myself, maybe cost $5, I’m worth that and so are you.

It’s a card that turns into a flower arrangement. I love it. I bought it on Amazon and now I can have flowers anytime without having to water or watch wilt. 

What have you done for yourself today?

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health · Moving Forward

Why is it so hard to forgive? — Guest Blogger Don’t Lose Hope

“Everyone says forgiveness is a good idea until they have something to forgive.” – C.S. Lewis Forgiveness is a difficult, and somewhat touchy, topic. It’s something we are told that we ought to offer others. But ask anyone, and you’re likely to hear that forgiveness is a struggle if you’ve been hurt and betrayed.  And […]

Why is it so hard to forgive? — Don’t Lose Hope
Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

How The World Of CBD Has Changed

The CBD world has changed a lot in the last few years. 

Since the 2018 Farm Bill transformed hemp cultivation and gave birth to the modern CBD industry, new, ground-breaking hemp products are hitting the shelves every week. 

Photo by Harrison Haines on Pexels.com

The difference between CBD, Delta-8, and HHC products can get a little confusing, so we thought we’ll give you a quick summary to help you!

CBD

Next to the federally illegal THC, CBD is the most well-known cannabinoid and is available in an array of forms, including oils, capsules, gummies, and topicals. 

CBD is available almost everywhere and it’s easily the most popular of the three – an estimated 1 in 3 Americans have used a CBD product at least once.  

Out of the three cannabinoids, CBD has the most research behind it. In a critical report, the WHO deemed CBD as “generally well tolerated with a good safety profile.” 

Among the popular reasons that people use CBD products are: to help support the management of everyday stress, to help support a sense of calm, to help support recovery from exercise-induced inflammation, and to help support healthy sleep cycles.

Delta-8

Like CBD, Delta-8 is found naturally in hemp – but in much smaller quantities. For this reason, the Delta-8 used in products like these is derived from CBD.  

But Delta-8 has more in common with THC (Delta 9-THC) than CBD. It has a similar chemical structure to the psychoactive cannabinoid and its reported effects can be comparable (although milder.)

Unfortunately, not everyone can get their hands on Delta-8. Although federally legal (it’s derived from legal hemp) some states have their own laws regarding Delta-8. 

Currently, Delta-8 is not permitted to be sold in the following states: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Delaware, Idaho, Iowa, Nevada, Mississippi, Montana, Rhode Island, Utah.

HHC

Like Delta-8, HHC is a cannabinoid that’s found naturally, in very small quantities, in the cannabis plant – but for products like gummies, the HHC is usually synthesized from hemp-derived CBD.

Users claim that HHC ‘fills a gap’ between CBD and Delta-8 as it offers more potent effects on the mind than CBD but without the strength of Delta-8.

This information came from an email from Pure Kana and I found it very helpful and thought I would pass it along. I hope it clears up any questions you have, I know it helped me. 

Melinda

 

Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Survivor

No More Week March 6th-13th 2022

Join The NO MORE Foundation for the second annual NO MORE Week Virtual 5K to End Domestic and Sexual Violence.

Sign Up

NO MORE Week Virtual 5K to End Domestic and Sexual Violence

Sun March 6 – Sun March 13, 2022  

The NO MORE Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending domestic violence and sexual assault by increasing awareness, inspiring action, and fueling culture change. Every March, we celebrate NO MORE Week, which coincides with International Women’s Day on March 8th. During this week, our goal is to inspire everyone to take action and help create a culture of safety, equality, and respect in our communities. 

In honor of the ninth annual NO MORE Week, we invite you to #JoinTheChorus and get ready for a virtual 5K! Whether you love running trails, conquering the treadmill, or walking around the neighborhood, this COVID-safe virtual race is for you. Tighten your laces and get active to support the elimination of domestic and sexual violence. You have all of NO MORE Week—March 6th through 13th— to complete your run or walk on the route, day, and time that works best for you. Register, track your progress, and compete with others to reach your goal! 

Your safety is important to us, and we all have a role in continuing to slow the spread of COVID-19. Please follow all COVID-19 safety guidelines required by your state and local governments. View updated information on COVID-19 from the CDC here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

We’re proud to be teaming up with State Farm for the second annual NO MORE Week Virtual 5k, and we’re grateful to the National Football League for its support of the race. VIRTUAL RACE CONTACT INFO

If you have any questions about this virtual race, click the button below. Questions?

Melinda

Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health · Moving Forward

Trauma and Gaslighting — Guest Blogger Explorations in Psychotherapy

Gaslighting Quotes That Capture This Emotional Manipulation “Gaslighting is mind control to make victims doubt their reality.” — Tracy Malone. “Gaslighting is a subtle form of emotional manipulation that often results in the recipient doubting their own perception of reality and their sanity. In addition, gaslighting is a method of manipulation by toxic people to […]

Trauma and Gaslighting — Explorations in Psychotherapy
Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health

7 Dangers To Look Out For After A Storm

Storms have been getting more frequent and more violent in recent years as a result of climate change. Knowing how to protect yourself from a storm is very important. Most of us understand the importance of taking shelter during a storm, however many of us don’t prepare for the dangers that can occur after a storm has passed. It’s often during the aftermath that most people sustain injuries or get sick. This post lists some of the dangers to look out for in the aftermath of a storm to prevent yourself from future harm.

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Damaged trees

High winds can often cause damage to trees. It’s important to check the trees around your home to make sure none of them are leaning or severely cracked – there could be a risk that they could come toppling down, damaging your home or harming someone. You should hire a tree removal company to safely remove these trees. Never attempt to remove a large tree yourself. 

Damaged guttering

Damaged guttering could also be a safety risk. Guttering can become loosened in a storm. There may then be a risk that it could fall off. Guttering is particularly dangerous if it has frozen water in it as it can have the impact of a falling branch. If your guttering doesn’t look like it’s in good condition after a storm, consider hiring a guttering repair company to take a look. 

Loose fence panels

Fence panels can often come loose following a storm. Burglars may see this as a vulnerability and may target your home if they can easily sneak into your backyard. Loose fence panels can also be a danger if you have pets such as dogs – there could be a risk of your dog getting out and getting itself into harm. By repairing any loose fence panels, you can eliminate these risks.

Loose roof tiles

You should also check the condition of your roof following a storm. A weakened roof could collapse at any time. Rainwater could also be leaking in, which could lead to the development of mold growth. To inspect the health of your roof, consider hiring a roofing company to take a look. 

Cracks in walls

Have you noticed any new cracks in your walls or any cracks that have got larger? Storms can sometimes weaken the structure of a home – particularly one that is already experiencing subsidence. It could be worth hiring a professional to check these cracks to make sure that they’re not a safety concern. 

Home flooding

Flooding can pose all kinds of dangers. One of the most serious dangers is the risk of electric shock – immediately following a storm, you should avoid treading in any water if the electricity is still on as there could be an electric current running through it (call an electrician for advice). Flooding can also cause water damage that can weaken your home. It can also lead to serious mold growth which could make you very sick. As a result, it’s important to get any flood damage cleared up as soon as you can. 

Black ice

If it’s cold and there’s been a lot of rain, the ground could get very icy. Many people fall over and injure themselves on black ice. If you think there could be a risk of ice forming, consider spreading some grit on the ground around your home. 

This is a collaborative post.

Melinda

Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Repressed Memory

I was married two weeks after my 18th birthday to my high school sweetheart. Things were tough, no money, not even a bank account. The money went in a box at the top of the closet and when it was gone, it was gone. This was 1981, if you can imagine my grocery budget was $35 a week. Slim pickings even back then.

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We were over at his parent’s house one spring evening like we were every Friday night. I started bleeding and thought I was starting my period early. It would not be that unusual. A little while later I started having severe back pain and my sister-in-law asked if I was having a miscarriage. First off, I was on birth control and second, I had no idea what a miscarriage felt like.

The pain and bleeding continued to get worse so we drove to the hospital. When we arrived there weren’t any rooms so I had to lay in the waiting room with my jeans soaked in blood. 

After I was put in a room, I had to go to the bathroom. While in the bathroom I had a miscarriage. In the toilet was a fully formed four-month-old fetus. I was in shock. I walked out and told a nurse there was a baby in the toilet.

While back in the room waiting for the doctor, this most insensitive nurse puts the fetus which is in a jar right by my head. WOW, what a way to traumatize someone.

It would be bad enough if the story ended there but it doesn’t.

My husband was an amateur car racer and had a big race that weekend. He never acknowledged the baby, my pain, and never even came to see me in the hospital room that evening. The next morning he headed out of town for the race without even arranging a ride for me. I had to call my ex-boyfriend’s mother to take me home. I wasn’t ready to tell my grandparents yet.

He came home on Sunday night and not a peep was said. I never mourned the baby I lost because I had to suppress my feelings because of the anger I felt towards my husband.

This memory was triggered recently and although it happened in 1982, it still hurts. To think my child would be 38 years old. That’s hard to fathom.

I’ve never had children. In 1991 I was diagnosed with Cervical cancer and had to have a total hysterectomy which ended the possibility of children.

I wanted to share this memory in order to grieve and to help anyone else who has lost a child and did not have someone there to support you. I understand.

Melinda

Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Surface Pressure — Guest Blogger Undiagnosed

It’s been a weird time for me lately. I keep trying to “feel better” without much luck. One day I will give up a bad habit, and the next I am right back to it (like smoking cigarettes). My motivation levels are low, I avoid what brings joy to my life, and I cannot seem […]

Surface Pressure — Undiagnosed