Ok hands up who has been on a diet and given up on it? I am not happy to admit this but I have.
A few years back following my car accident I decided that it was about time I looked into trying to lose a few stone. My Aunt at the time had been a member of Slimming World and she was doing amazing so I thought why not join up and give it a try.
My journey began
I looked up to see where the local group was to me and contacted the Slimming World Consultant who welcomed me to come along. My journey then began. To cut a long story short I went on to lose 3 stone in weight. I felt amazing and also shocked that I had managed it. I felt so much healthier and happier in myself.
But sadly Christmas came along and so did the mince pies, cheese and wine. I then fastly learnt at how quickly and easily the weight goes back on at next weigh-in day. This left me feeling so ashamed with myself and embarrassed that I let this happen to the point I didn’t return back.
But since then I have been left kicking myself – if only I had continued going and just drew a line under my Christmas gain and carried on. I am sure I would have lost it all again and probably more. And I am sure I am not the only person to have a Christmas weight gain.
Back to square one
2018 see me back to square one with my weight and I haven’t liked it. I have not felt confident or happy with myself and the only one who can change that is me. So 2019 has seen me take control of my lifestyle and start the new year as I mean to go on – healthier and happier!
We are now just over two weeks into a new year. Week one saw me joining up at Slimming World again and getting used to everything again. It also saw me going through everything in our cupboards, fridge and freezer, all of which are now filled with healthier food options.
I am determined
Ian has seen my determination in my health kick that he has also said he wants to join me. Ian isn’t going to be joining Slimming World to weigh but will be eating more healthily and exercising more.
Week two see us both out walking with Coco and Hunter our two dogs. We spent most of our weekend walking, which we both enjoyed and loved being out in the fresh air, it made a lovely change. We walked along the river and round a local park, we walked to a dog agility course and done some training with our dogs.
We also walked around a lovely lake. When we got back home we realised then that we had walked a good few miles and been out a good few hours. With Coco being a Husky she helps to keep me active as she could just walk and walk.
I am focused
As I now head into week three I am finding myself meal planning more. I plan meals for the week ahead and then do a food shop online, only getting food that is needed for thoes meals. I find this helps me to stay in control of my food intake and helps me to stay on plan. I have also been drinking more water.
Making small changes every week
I have also been online and ordered myself some exercise equipment. I plan to start week 4 doing some light exercise. I suffer with Endometriosis and Fibromyalgia so I have to be careful what I do.
With these conditions I never know how I am going to wake up feeling, whether today is going to be a good day or a bad day pain wise.
Take each day as it comes
So all I can do is take each day as it comes and do what I can when I can. This is why I have opted to set up a home gym as I couldn’t gaurantee getting enough use out of a gym membership.
So here I am, 17 days into 2019 and I have already lost 10.5 lbs. I am so pleased and absolutely loving a healthier new lifestyle.
Projects adding value to your home doesn’t have to be difficult. It also doesn’t have to be expensive, or even time-consuming. In fact, these DIY improvements will take no time at all, and they can add a significant amount of value to your property.
Paint Your Kitchen Cabinets
Kitchen cabinets have to put up with a lot of wear and tear. They get covered with grease and grime, not to mention that this can build up over time as well. If you want to try a few projects and put an end to issues such as this then you can easily paint over them. This is much more affordable when compared to replacing them entirely. It also gives your kitchen a new lease of life too, so it is important to get this done as soon as possible. Before you go and paint over the cabinets, you will need to clean them, sand them down and polish them up. If you don’t then you will end up with clumps of paint and this won’t do much for the value of your home. To give your home a bright and airy feel, consider using white glossy paint.
New Hardware
You aren’t just limited to painting your cabinets because you can easily replace the hardware on them as well. Unfashionable or worn out handles can really age a kitchen, so think about upcycle projects or installing new ones to try and make your kitchen way more appealing. This will also help you to take care of any pressing kitchen issues as well, such as misaligned doors, scratches and even any damages. If you want to really make your home look more modern then consider opting for sleek, chrome handles.
Get A Backsplash
Installing a kitchen backsplash will boost the value of your home. You can add one right behind your hob and you can even protect your paint from cooking splatters this way as well. Over time, stains and grime can damage your walls and water can easily promote the growth of mould. With a backsplash, you never have to worry about that. You can get them in a huge range of materials and styles, not to mention that you can also find one that enhances the unique flare of your kitchen too. A backsplash is a fantastic way for you to boost your home’s value and this is especially the case if you are looking to list it on the market in the near future.
Add Some Storage
Ample storage is one of the most sought-after attributes in a home. It is super common for bathrooms to fall short in that department. A fantastic way for you to get around this would be for you to install some floating shelves. They are super cost-effective, and they can also add a lot of value to your property. When choosing your shelves, it helps to make sure that they fit in with the running theme of your home. For example, if you have a marble theme in the bathroom then you may want to opt for a shelf of a similar colour, or tone. If mahogany is prominent in the living room, then you need to choose a mahogany shelf to match.
Replace Any Taps
Fitting new hardware is unbelievably easy and a cheap project. It is super straight-forward and it is a great home improvement. It will renew your bathroom’s appearance and it will go down great with buyers. If you want to get a new vanity unit, then check out www.drench.co.uk. Remember that taps aren’t specific to the bathroom either. You can install a new outdoor tap and even a new faucet in the kitchen as well. When choosing your faucets, remember that your décor will change over time. For this reason, stainless steel is the way to go. It is utterly timeless, and it can work with almost any colour theme.
Crown Moulding
Crown moulding projects really are all the rage right now. What better way to boost your home’s value than to DIY? It can be hard to put up as you need to get the angles right, but when you have done it, you can easily save a small fortune when it comes to installation costs. Of course, when choosing your moulding you need to make sure that it is the right size and the right style as well. Paint is also required, so take the time to plan everything out before you get started. This way, you can feel confident in the decisions you have made regarding the look and feel of your home.
Bringing a dog into your family is an exciting time, giving them a loving family home while also adding a new member to your household. There’s a lot of responsibility involved, but a lot of fun too.
Looking after your dog’s health and wellbeing is as vital as looking after your own, and there’s a lot you can do to make sure they’re loved and looked after. Here are some tips for caring for your happy, healthy dog.
Give them a comfortable place to sleep
Giving your dog a warm and cosy bed to sleep in will help them feel at home, settle them into a routine and protect your furniture too. Where you keep the bed is up to you – some like to keep their dog downstairs, while others like keeping them in their bedroom. Wherever you choose, it should be warm, comfortable and away from anything that could be dangerous. Giving your dog their own bed can help them settle down in the evenings, giving you a restful sleep too.
Make sure they get plenty of exercise
Exercise is very important for your dog to ensure that they are happy and healthy. How often you should walk your dog depends on their age and size, but regular walking is recommended for all dogs. When dogs are exercised regularly, they are able to maintain their weight, socialise with other dogs and they get the chance to explore. Giving them plenty of exercise will stop them from getting bored, which will stop them from damaging your furniture, flooring and clothing. Walking the dog is good exercise for you too, so why not take them out in the mornings and evenings to help you get some exercise too?
Look after their teeth
Many dogs suffer from neglected teeth, and it’s no wonder – there’s not much they can do themselves! However, you, as a responsible dog owner, can do your bit to ensure your dog maintains healthy teeth and gums. Brushing regularly and checking their teeth for problems can help to prevent issues which will require a vet later on, while maintaining a healthy diet can also help to keep teeth strong and gums healthy.
Dogs should have regular things to chew on so that they can help keep their teeth strong. Special dental chew treats are great for dogs, or you could try a deer antler dog chew as a more natural alternative. Having plenty of chew toys around the house will stop them from chewing like your textiles and furniture, although it’s best to keep dogs away from anything you’d rather have left in one piece!
Groom them regularly
Most dogs enjoy a spot of grooming, and it can be a good way for you to bond with your pooch! Grooming also has many benefits, including to keep your dog’s in a good condition and to spot any potential issues that they might have such as fleas and ticks. There are different ways to groom your dog, and dogs with particularly long hair might be taken care of if you take them to professional dog groomers.
Get them vaccinated
Just like people, dogs can benefit from being vaccinated to protect them against different diseases. If you get your dog as a puppy, it’s likely that they’ll have had their initial vaccinations before you bring them home. Register your pet with a vet to put a vaccination programme in place that will keep them safe and healthy. Regular check-ups with the vet will keep an eye out for any potential health problems, so don’t forget to put those appointments in your diary.
Make sure they have plenty of fresh water
Dogs can get dehydrated quickly, especially during warmer weather, so make sure they drink often and keep fresh water to hand, even when you’re out and about. The amount of water a dog needs a day depends on their size, so it’s worth researching this to help them get the right amount. Keep an eye on your dog’s drinking habits, you’ll be able to work out where and when they like to drink to help you make sure that they get enough. If you’re going on long walks, consider taking a bowl and a bottle of water with you to keep them hydrated on the move.
Play with them
Dogs love to play, and spending time with them can help to train them, burn off excess energy and make them happy. What you’ll soon realise is that playing with your dog will help boost your mood too, so even if you’ve had a bad day – some time spent with them will soon perk you up. Come up with some different doggy games and get the whole family involved in keeping them entertained. A frisbee or a ball can provide hours of fun for a dog as long as they’ve got someone to play with.
Ensure they have a good diet
Dogs rely on the right nutrition to keep them healthy, strong and to stop them getting overweight. While many people might give their dog some scraps from the table or let them have some foods that they shouldn’t, it’s not advisable and could soon lead to some bad behaviours. You can ensure a balanced diet for your dog, and stop them from being unwell by not giving them chocolate and other foods that could cause serious harm. Monitor your dog’s diet regularly to make sure they’re not putting on weight or that they’re getting food from sources that they shouldn’t.
Train them
A well-trained dog can be a joy to live with, and can help you to raise a well-behaved dog that you can trust around your family as well as other people and animals when you’re out and about. Training your dog helps to keep them stimulated, by helping them practice their instinctive behaviours. You can help keep them stimulated by varying their route and surroundings, introducing them to new people and other animals and teach them new tricks as often as you can. This is a wonderful way to bond with your dog and can be a lot of fun for the both of you!
Don’t leave them alone for too long
It’s not recommended to get a dog if you are going to be away from home for long periods of time. Dogs enjoy company and being left alone all day can cause them to feel lonely, bored and start acting out through barking, scratching and more. Different dogs have different needs, and you should get to know how long is too long to leave your dog at home alone. If you’re going to be out of the house for too long, why not think about getting a dog walker or enlisting a friend or family member to spend time with your dog during the day?
Keep your home clean and hazard free
A dirty home can cause many issues, but as your dog spends a lot of time close to the floor, it’s important that you keep it as clean as possible to stop them picking up germs, etc. Keeping your home clean is more of a challenge with a dog around, but making a list of regular chores and splitting them up between the family will make it easier. It’s also important that you keep hazards out of harm’s way, including small objects, cleaning products and anything else that could be harmful to your pet.
Bath them when they need it
Baths can help a dog stay clean and keep their coat in good condition, but they don’t need one as often with you might think. Around once a month should be fine for a dog with normal skin, as any more often could mean they end up developing dry skin. Use a specialist dog shampoo to help them keep their natural oils balanced and to stop you using anything too harsh. If you’re worried about your dog smelling in between washes, there are things you can do to keep your dog clean in between baths.
Give them some space
Some dogs like a bit of alone time – a space where they can go to feel safe when they need it. When there are fireworks nearby, for example, it helps to give them a safe space to hide away in while they wait for it to be over. Sometimes they just want a bit of peace and quiet – especially if they’ve been playing and exploring all day!
Your dogs are an important part of the family, and keeping them happy and looked after will give you some incredible memories to share. A dog is a lot of responsibility, but they have a lot of love to offer and will love being a part of the family. Provided you care for their needs and give them the love and attention they deserve, owning a dog will be extremely rewarding and one of the best things to happen for your family.
Modern living is fast-paced, ultra-connected and always on, and our homes are adapting to our new way of life. Along with fashion and technology, the world of architecture and design is becoming influence by the new demands we place on our time. There are many aspects to this – from a trend towards more open-plan living to moving towards lighter spaces, to increasing ac installation to deal with warmer summers and even the clean lines of contemporary furniture design. If it’s time to bring a more modern look and improve your home, here’s where to begin…
Increase The Natural Light
Traditional, subdivided darker interiors with small windows have given way to everything light and airy when it comes to the design of our homes. If you have a chance to redo the floorplan, make sure you work it around sources of natural light, and consider adding Velux windows to open up the roof space as well. You can always opt for opaque glazing if you want to retain privacy but keep the natural light flowing.
Go Neutral With A Touch Of Drama
A lighter, brighter scheme needs neutral tones to really increase the sense of space, but lift these and add impact by choosing a beautiful, bright accent colour or two. A bold green or a petrol blue – even a bright magenta – all work fantastically well with neutral decor. You can also lift a neutral scheme using metallic accents which add interest or go for lots of different textures to achieve a calming yet sophisticated scheme.
Try Bare Floors
If you’ve always gone for fitted carpets in your home, ring the changes with a beautiful hard floor instead. Engineered wood floors, polished concrete or clean tiling look very chic but are also hard-wearing and practical, especially if you have kids. You can opt for underfloor heating if you want to keep your space warm. One seamless floor finish through an open plan space can look great, and you can add textured area rugs to seating areas to cosy them up.
Add Some Technology
The role of technology to help in running the home has exploded over the past few years, so if you’re planning an update then it’s wise to work a few tech updates in there. Wireless controls that connect to WiFi for electronics, appliances, heating systems, home security and lighting can all make life easier and can be integrated with voice control via a system such as Alexa. This approach can really bring the family home up to date and give you greater control over the household bills as well.
Use Natural Materials
The most beautiful contemporary home design makes great use of natural materials for a sleek finish. Elements such as natural woods, slate and stone finishes, quartz or granite worktops and leather furniture give a timeless refinement and are generally highly durable as well as looking amazing. Achieve a great look by mixing older pieces with very modern design for an effortless space that feels organic.
It’s The Little Things You Do That Show Your Kids You Love Them
It’s the little things we do that show our kids we love them. There’s no need to prove our love with extravagant gifts – no matter how much our kids complain we don’t love them enough because we haven’t bought them the latest this and that! There’s no need to go overboard at the school gates with hugs and kisses, as this will only embarrass our poor children anyway. There are other, more subtle ways to show our kids that we love, care, and cherish them, and we have some examples of this right here.
Tell them
We show our kids we love them by telling them we love them. It’s not soppy to tell our children we love them, and while they probably don’t need to be reassured of this fact verbally, it’s still nice to be told those three little words. When did you last say to your children, “I love you?” No matter how old they are, make the effort to tell them today. Sure, they might roll their eyes at you, but secretly, they will be over the moon that you told them. Say those words every day.
Making the effort
We show our kids we love them by giving them our undivided attention. This isn’t always easy within a large family where sibling rivalry rears its head. But as the parent, you need to make the effort to spend time with each, finding time to ask them about their day, and taking part in activities with them that are things they are interested in. Create a mental note in your head each day, telling yourself to find time with each of your children. And when they come to you for something, never be too busy not to make time for them. Put down your phone or the television remote, and be present for them.
Making time
We show our kids we love them by arranging time to take part in family activities. This could be anything from having a home cinema night at the weekend or a camping trip during the holidays. And when we plan any activities, we need to remember the word ‘family.’ Let your kids have a say in the planning, as not only will this alleviate the risk of them not enjoying something, but it will show them that you have taken their needs and wants into consideration. And again, you are taking time out of your schedule to spend time with them, and while our kids don’t always notice the fact, this is possibly more important than the activities you are embarking on together.
Being proud
We show our kids we love them by recognising their achievements. We display certificates of awards in picture frames around our homes. We offer words of praise when they have done something well. We let other people know how wonderful our kids are. We celebrate the fact that our kids have skills and talents, and we let them know just how proud we are of them.
Being forgiving
We show our kids we love them by not bearing a grudge when they have done something wrong. While it would be great if they resembled little angels all of the time, the reality is our kids can be difficult. They can do things that upset us. And they can exhibit behaviour patterns that we most certainly haven’t taught them. While love is about letting them the know the difference between right and wrong, and showing appropriate discipline so they recognise boundaries, love is also about forgiveness and offering a path for redemption. So, don’t penalise your kids for too long. Don’t bring up their misdeeds in conversation long after things have blown over. Practice forgiveness and unconditional love, because they aren’t perfect, but then again, neither are you! One day you might need their forgiveness, so be a decent role model.
Not criticizing
We show our children we love them by not putting them down. We don’t criticise them for failing at something they have tried to do. We are only human, and none of us are perfect. We need to take a positive stance. When our children fall down, we help them up again. If they struggle to do something, we help them to be better. Though if they are never going to be good at a particular thing, we don’t push them too hard. Rather, we focus on the things they are good at and encourage them to play to their strengths. We lift them up rather than put them down; we offer words of encouragement and not words that will diminish who they are.
Accepting them
We show our children we love them by accepting them for who they are. They will make choices in life that don’t always correspond to our own ideals, but provided those choices aren’t criminal or damaging to them, we should offer acceptance. They don’t have to like the same things we do. They don’t have to follow the same sports teams we do. They don’t have to follow career paths that we think are good for them. Our kids have the capacity to make decisions of their own, and while we might want to ask questions and challenge them occasionally, we should also know when to shut up and let them steer their own paths. They are who they are, and that’s a good thing!
Being there
We show our children we love them by just showing up when they need us. When they need a shoulder to cry on, we are there for them. When they need someone to talk to, we offer that listening ear. When they are performing at school, we are there in the front row. When they appear miserable and low, we offer that arm of support. When other people threaten them, we stand up in defense of our children. We show up right when they need us because we love them, and this sometimes means having to sacrifice our own needs to care for their needs instead.
So today, show your children you love them. Do it in all of the ways we have described, or do it in ways that are personal to you. And then remember to take the opportunity to say…I LOVE YOU!!
They will become better people because of what you do and say today.
The garden has to rank among the most important part of any property. It is easy to get carried away with focusing on the best parts of the home and trying to boost the interior in order to add value or create better living conditions. But a lot of people these days seem to overlook the important role the garden plays in the makeup of any home and the way in which it is perceived.
You should always be looking at things you can do to improve the garden and make the property better as a result. There are a lot of things that can be done in order to improve the way your garden looks, as well as how functional it is. These are some of the best things you can do in order to improve your garden for the better and make the most of the space you have to work within.
Lawn Maintenance
It is so important, when you have a back garden, to make sure you are looking after the grass. Proper lawn maintenance is something you have to make sure you are focused on as much as possible, and there are a number of ways of achieving this. Cutting the grass and using lawn feed is one of the best things you can do, but you might also like to consider getting an artificial lawn because this is going to improve how efficient the lawn is, as well as making it easier to maintain.
Extension
Extending the home is one of the most impressive ways of doing things, and this is something that you need to make sure you are focused on when it comes to improving the home and adding value. Well, one of the things to consider is the fact that the garden provides ample opportunity for extending the home. There are a lot of different extension options you might consider, like a conservatory, or a garage conversion. And this is definitely going to increase the value of the home and improve the aesthetics of the garden moving forward.
Grow Your Own
Growing your own fruit and vegetables is a great way of maximising your garden as much as possible. This is something you need to make sure you do to utilise the garden and what it has to offer. There are so many great fruits and vegetables that you can grow, and creating a miniature allotment, or installing an aluminium greenhouse, is one of the best ideas for the future. This is something that can provide you with a lot of delicious organic food that doesn’t cost you much.
Water Feature
There are so many excellent ways of improving the garden, but a water feature is probably one of the best ways of achieving this. There are a lot of different options to consider when it comes to improving the garden and using a water feature to do this. Whether it is a fountain, a pond, or even a swimming pool, it is important that you make sure you choose correctly, and this is something that you have to make sure you think carefully about.
Make it More Sociable
The best way of making sure you improve your garden is to make it more sociable. This is something you have to ensure you do in order to make certain you have a garden that contains some wow factor. This is something you can achieve by adding in some seating areas, building a patio, and developing an area where you can host parties and hang out with your friends.
Flowers
No proper garden would be complete without lots of colourful and diverse flowers. There are plenty of places to plant flowers in order to give them the best visual position in the garden. Creating a flower garden would be a plus, and flower beds are an absolute must for those looking to get more flowers into their garden. Try to mix up the different flowers you have, and go for a mixture of colours as much as you possibly can. Make sure you do as much as you can to make your garden better.
There are so many changes you can make to enhance the practicality and functionality of the garden, as well as making it look great as well. The garden can have a major impact on the rest of the home, and this is something that you need to focus on as much as possible. There are a lot of changes you can make that are going to help you improve the way your garden comes across, and these are some of the most important that you should consider.
Are you like me and want to eat healthy but also hate having to use loads of pots when preparing a meal? How does breakfast in 90 seconds sound? and even better still it’s all done in one pot.
Breafast is the most important meal of the day and I will be first to admit that I often skip this meal as the mornings can sometimes be hectic. Is this a meal you skip too for the same reason?
Making breakfast easier
I have been currently looking at ways to overcome this problem. With the time of year and the mornings being cold, damp and sometimes frosty, a cold fresh fruit shake just isn’t as inviting at the moment. For me they are more for the warmer days. A nice warm breakfast is more needed at the moment.
One breakfast I have been currently enjoying and that is this loaded egg in a dish breakfast. A breakfast made using just the one dish and is ready in just 90 seconds. Breakfast has never been so easy.
How to make this tasty breakfast in 90 seconds
Ingredients:
Eggs x2
1 tablespoonful of skimmed milk
Lean ham – I used one slice.
Parsley
Method:
Chop the ham into small peices and place in the dish.
Crack your eggs into the same dish.
Add the milk.
Add the seasoning. As much or as little as you like.
Mix the ingredients together.
Place in the microwave for 90 seconds.
Enjoy.
Add any fillings of your choice
This loaded egg breakfast makes a perfect quick breakfast. The ingredients can be played about with and you can add any filling of your choice. Ian likes his loaded with more fillings and likes mushrooms, peas, cheese and other fillings added to bulk his out more.
This also makes a perfect breakfast for kid’s like Bradley who struggle to get out of bed in the mornings. He is now in college and still hasn’t changed from his school day’s – he still isn’t a morning person and ALWAYS needs reminding to have breakfast before darting out the door to get his train to college.
A perfect way to start anyones day. All you need is eggs, milk and any fillings of your choice.
We do enjoy cooking and baking – check out our food section for other recipes.
A temporary decrease in your cash flow can create major problems for you. It may be difficult for you to make ends meet. Fortunately, there are ways that you can manage a shortfall in your budget.
Cut Out Unnecessary Things
If you want to know how to manage a shortfall, then you will need to start by reviewing your budget. You will free up more of your income if you get rid of the things that you do not need. For example, you can stop buying coffee every day. You can also pack your lunch instead of buying it.
The advantage of doing this is that you may be able to resolve your financial problems without borrowing money. The disadvantage of doing this is that you may have to make major sacrifices.
Responsibly Use Credit Cards and Loans
You can use your credit card or find an installment loan to cover your expenses in a short-term pinch. Make sure you only borrow what you need and can afford to pay back on time. This is one of the keys to borrowing money responsibly. One of the benefits of using a credit card or loan is that you do not have to pay the full balance off immediately.
You can make small payments every month. However, you will likely have to pay interest on a loan or credit card. The amount that you eventually pay back will be more than what you borrowed. Additionally, all lenders have requirements that have to be met.
Pawn an Item
If you have a valuable item, then you can pawn it to get money. Jewelry, electronics, and video consoles are examples of some the things that you can pawn. You will be able to quickly get cash if you pawn an item. You can also get the item back after you pay the pawn shop back.
However, you will lose the item if you cannot pay the pawn shop back. There is also a possibility that the pawn shop will not give you what the item is truly worth.
Pick up Extra Hours or Get a Second Job
You can get out of a bad financial situation by earning extra money. You can ask your employer if you can pick up extra hours. Working a few extra hours per week can help you bring in a lot more money. You may also want to pick up a second job or side source of income if possible.
Working extra hours can be a better option than borrowing money. You can make extra money that you will not have to worry about paying back. However, if you get a second job or work extra hours, then your life may be more stressful. You may find yourself getting burnt out. You will also have less time to spend with your friends and family.
You do not have to let a temporary shortfall ruin you financially. You can correct this problem by sticking to a budget and cutting out things you do not need. You can also borrow money or pawn an item. Additionally, you can work longer hours or pick up a second job. It is important to weigh the pros and cons of each option before you choose one.
Due to the numerous competitors in the labor market, employers are forced to “sharpen” their methods of employee selection. This way, they can reach the best solution for an open job position. It is noticeable that an increasing number of companies are introducing additional testing to check which candidate fits best in the potential job profile.
Also, it became a standard practice to check employees from time to time, to see if they bring results and how they fit into new business trends. In addition to a well-known intelligence or personality test, and various case studies, employers have introduced another way of examining their workforce, which threatens to become mandatory – drug testing.
The topic of drug use and abuse is something we hear of every day, but drug testing became a current theme lately. It’s a public secret that the number of light drug users is on the rise. While many think that only immature kids do drugs, they would be surprised to find out how many mature people and professionals use some of the opiates.
Pre-Employment Drug Tests
The right of every employer is to know what kind of worker they are hiring. Besides great job-related recommendations, they may also be interested in your private life and have you ever had problems with the law. All this is in the domain of the law, and employers maximally use this right. Especially for highly responsible job positions that carry a certain risk for the worker, the company, and other participants (for example, pilots, bus and truck drivers have drug controls several times a year).
Today’s methods of testing are quite advanced; anyone who consumed any kind of narcotic, at least once in a lifetime, will be frightened of the drug control. And you’ll never know when your employer can announce the testing. You can expect a pre-employment drug examination in every serious business offer.
“Surprises” for Employees
The use of narcotics in private life is a matter of free choice. The right of every employer is to provide safety and security in the workplace, and consuming opiates is something that can jeopardize it. Employers do not want to take risks, and they will try to ensure their business through regular drug testing.
Every company has a legal right to engage a health service to conduct employee drug checks at any time. Often, tests are announced several days in advance, except in the event of an accident at work. The results and information about employees are confidential, and the further procedure depends exclusively on the results of the test.
Drug Testing after Accident on Workplace
In the case of regular testing, the most commonly performed drug tests are urine or saliva method; when some work accident happens, every company will require more reliable sample and testing. These two tests are not considered completely reliable (according to TestClear, you can easily “fool” them).
In specific situations, where the interests of the company are endangered, employers usually insist on a blood test. This is the most expensive, but also the most reliable variant for checking the presence of opiates, therefore this method is only used in serious and risky situations.
Some employees want to “profit” after getting an injury in the workplace. Usually, employers have to pay costs of treatment and compensation for any damages suffered. Denying can seriously affect their business reputation. So they want to protect themselves in such situations, especially if there are reasonable doubts about the abuse.
Can Employee Refuse Drug Test
The right of every man is to reject the test, but the employer usually knows what to do in that situation. In that case, every corporation can prescribe certain sanctions, to protect their interests. If you are applying for the first job in some reputable company, it may be wise to accept testing. There are various methods that can help you pass it if you have any doubts. If you refuse it from the first, you probably closed the door of this company.
Depending on the business area, job positions or situation at work employers opt for routine or targeted testing. Each drug test brings costs for the company, so they don’t want to waste their money. If you deny it at the very beginning, they probably won’t force you. But expect the unexpected then.
Employers sometimes can use methods of announcing “false” drug testing; based on the reaction of employees, company’s psychologists can judge whether or not someone use opiates. You’ll never know what the truth is, so our advice is to always accept the testing, and to use those few days before examination to stay clean and eliminate opiate trails.
With Christmas just around the corner your either really organised by now and have your gifts bought, wrapped and ready to hand to friends and family… or your like my husband, totally unorganized and runs round in a last minute panic….Christmas eve to be precise. A Christmas tradition of his that he does each year without fail.
Which one are you? Whatever one you are we wish you and your family a very merry Christmas and a happy New year.
Today’s post will be short and sweet. This post is just to inform all of you lovely readers that WOW FreeStuff are currently hosting a competition, offering you all the chance to win 1 of 100 bottles of Women’s Ghost Deep Night Perfume. This is one of my mum’s favourite perfumes and it smells absolutelty lush.
Gift contains:
30ml bottle of Women’s Ghost Deep Night Perfume.
The fragrance:
The perfume itself comes in a stunning cresent moon shaped bottle. This powerful fragrance is mysterious and seductive. The powerful scent introduces the exotic fragrant flower – Indian Rose. The sweetness of Apricot and Peach is blended with base notes of vanilla and white woods. Giving you the most amazing floral, fruity fragrance. A perfect blend for everyday.
Entry requirements are:
WOW FreeStuff are offering 100 lucky winners the chance to go into 2019 smelling absolutely lush. You must be over 18 to enter, based in the UK and happy to like their Facebook page and sign up to their news letter.
You have until the 1st February 2019 to enter making this the perfect gift for valentines day. Or simply a perfect gift just for you. Go on, treat yourself. You have to be in it to win it.
Fingers crossed for everyone who enters the competiton hosted by WOW FreeStuff.If you are lucky enough to win please do pop back and let us know.
Keeping your kids safe is the number one priority for all parents, and that starts at home. Obviously, you’ve already baby proofed the house and put any dangerous things like knives and cleaning chemicals out of reach. But there are a lot of other dangers around the house that you might not have even considered before. These are some of the biggest hidden dangers lurking in your home.
Clutter
Clutter is a big problem in the home because it eats up all of your space and makes it difficult to stay organized, but that isn’t the only reason that you should consider having a bit of a clearout. If you’ve got things lying around all over the floor, that’s a trip hazard. Kids are always running around all over the place so it’s likely that they’ll fall and hurt themselves if there is too much clutter on the floor. If you’ve got particularly young children, you’ve got to think about choking hazards as well. If you aren’t on top of all of the clutter, there might be small things that they could swallow and choke on, so always make sure the house is clean and tidy.
Paint
You probably don’t think of the paint on your walls as a potential hazard but it can be. If you live in an older property and you haven’t decorated since you moved in, there’s a chance that the paint on the walls could have lead in it. You can get home testing kits to check the paint for lead. If you find some, you need to get professionals in to strip it off for you and paint the walls again. It’s not just lead you need to watch out for either, most modern paints have some pretty nasty chemicals in them and all of that stuff is floating around in the air in your home. You might want to consider using eco-friendly alternatives that use more natural ingredients.
Bad Wiring
You should already know that you need to keep the kids away from plug sockets but that’s not the only electrical danger in the house. If you’ve got bad wiring, there’s always the chance that they could get a shock from using electrical appliances. With kids spending so much time on computers and games consoles these days, that’s a big problem. It’s worth getting a professional company like Analogue Electrics to check the wiring every so often to make sure that everything is in good working order. If there is a problem, you need to catch it as soon as possible.
Air Humidifiers
Air humidifiers are a good purchase if the air in your home is particularly dry because it can cause skin problems, but you’ve got to be careful with them. Most people don’t clean them anywhere near often enough and that’s a big problem. All sorts of bacteria can build up in there and it’s getting recycled into the air in your house. If you’re going to use a humidifier, always make sure you clean it regularly.
If you’re not on top of these hidden dangers, you could be putting your family’s health at risk.
A lot of people in the USA relocate for many reasons. They might want to move closer to their elder parents, the apartment is too small, their home is too expensive, they have found a new job and want to get closer to work, and a lot more.
Moving can be considered as life-changing especially in the US. You will have to be accustomed to the new neighbourhood. You have to find the nearest grocery shop, the nearest park, and try to navigate the new city that you are in. If you are not familiar with the neighbourhood, you might even get lost while you are in the process of moving house.
Moving house can also be difficult. You have to pack and transport everything. You need to inform your work about the new address, you have to find the perfect date when moving will be most convenient for you. For these reasons, you might consider hiring a professional mover or getting the entire job done yourself. You can know more about movers in this link here.
Reasons Why You Should Hire Professional Movers
Getting the help of professional movers in the US can result in a stress-free and seamless moving experience. You might do some researches first on why you should hire movers. However, you might find conflicting ideas on the internet and they can confuse you even more. To simplify things, it will really depend on you on whether you should hire movers or not. However, you have to consider these things before doing everything yourself.
1. Get Peace of Mind
Sometimes, just planning the move can leave you feeling stressful and drained. You haven’t even packed the boxes but you are already overwhelmed with the tasks that you needed to do. On top of that, you have to figure out the best routes on your state in order to avoid traffic and accidents. For more information about traffic routes, you can visit the website of the Federal Highway Administration here: https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo/. Professional movers can help you pack, carry, and deliver the furniture in an organised manner. Accidents can also be avoided since movers are already accustomed to lifting heavy weights. They know the best way to navigate the roads in the US. They have trucks that can protect your belongings during snowstorms or rains. This is why many people tend to be at peace when they know that professionals are handling their precious valuables.
2. Reliable
Unlike friends and families who have the tendency to cancel last minute plans, movers definitely shop upon the time and date of relocation. Even if one mover is not available, moving companies in USA generally find a replacement that has the same training and experience as the other one. They are the most reliable option that you can find in order to avoid delays and injuries. Note that not all of your friends and family members move things frequently from one state to another. They might do some scratches on your sofa if they are not careful and there’s no way that you can charge them for a replacement.
3. Smooth and Fast
This is one of the main reasons why people hire professional movers. The service is often fast and quick. This is especially true if you are able to find a company that is very familiar with the state where you are moving. Expect them to pack your things without too much chitchat. They are friendly but they also value your time so you can expect a prompt service that can simplify the relocation process in no time. Another bonus is that movers can squeeze your appliances through a narrow staircase because they are already trained for it.
4. Efficient
Movers have the build and experience to handle heavy objects. Bulky items do not have to undergo any unnecessary damages when you are relocating them. The furniture needs to be transferred into trucks and has to be carried out and lifted to the new home. If you are doing these all alone, you won’t likely be finished in a week. Professional movers are here to help you efficiently move everything without damages and accidents in the process.
5. Accountable
Your things are listed, packed, and labeled when it comes to moving companies. You can rest easy that everything will arrive in your new home completely and intact. If there are unavoidable accidents, the company can reimburse you with the full amount of the damaged items. Because professional movers are highly trained and experienced, they already know the right ways of moving your things without risking any damage on them. If you have too many valuables and precious items, then you should not consider moving things on your own.
6. No Lifting Involved
Heavy lifting can cause back strain and injuries. You might have worked all week on your job so don’t need unnecessary stress and tiredness caused by lifting heavy equipment and furniture. Some people do not have the build and the training to transport things properly. When hiring professional movers, you can just supervise them while they do the heavy bulk of work for you. You can even grab a cup of coffee after giving instructions to them.
7. Safe Moving
When it is your first time moving, choosing the right boxes can be challenging. If you don’t have the right items where you can wrap your lamps and porcelains, you might find them broken and splintered when you arrive at your new home. This is not the case with professional movers. They are able to provide you with secure wrappers and boxes that are made for moving items. They can also have plenty of space in their trucks for big pieces of furniture.
If you want to know the best movers in the US, you can do some research. You can call a company that can refer you to the most efficient movers in your area. Save yourself the hassle and get to know your new neighbourhood sooner by hiring a moving company today.
Of course, we all want a fishing rod that will help us catch the most fish. Unfortunately, there’s a lot more that goes into catching the big one other than just the rod that you’re using. For starters, it depends on where you’re fishing, the time of day, the season, and simply whether or not you’re in the right place.
Still, understanding and choosing the best fishing rod can save you a lot of hassle when it comes to snagging the catch of a lifetime. Online sites like Pro Fishing Gear Reviews website, are excellent resources where you can find plenty of tips for anglers of all skill levels. You’ll also find plenty of information on the best tackle and accessories to use, which will make your next fishing experience that much more enjoyable.
Choosing the Best Fishing Rod Setup
In order to choose the best fishing rod, it’s important to consider how each component of a rod work. When shopping for a fishing rod, the three most important components to consider are the rod itself and what material it’s made of, the type of fishing reel, as well as the actual ergonomics of the rod and the way it feels it your hands.
The biggest and most important benefits of using the best rod is to allow you to have the tools necessary to catch the fish that you want to catch. But unfortunately, when many people start fishing, they go out and buy lower priced fishing rods, thinking that there’s not all that much difference in quality.
However, what they don’t know is that cheaper rods are much more prone to issues such as snags, tangles and backlashes. Also, cheaper fishing rods break more easily than their higher priced counterparts and a broken rod can be disheartening when you’re out on the water having a good time.
What Type of Fish Are You Targeting?
You must also understand the different types of fishing tackle to get a better idea of what type of rod is right for you. This will be determined by the type of fishing that you plan to be doing with your rod. For example, if you plan on targeting larger game fish, than you might want to consider using a larger baitcaster reel, which is designed specifically to cast larger bait.
Another factor to consider is whether you’re looking for a short or long rod. Shorter rods are excellent for helping you land game fish that love to dive and fight as you reel them in. Whereas, longer rods tend to be better for helping you cast longer distances.
With this in mind, it’s a good idea to research the type of fish that live in the area you plan on fishing in and then choosing one species in particular to target. Then, as you improve your angling skills and understand what works best for different types of fish, you can expand your arsenal and begin experimenting with different rods and other species.
Your Fishing Budget (Time and Money)
If you’re a new angler, it’s a good idea to take some time to think about how much time you’ll be investing in the sport.
If you’re uncertain that you’ll be out on the water often, it’s better to start with a beginner rod, which are typically much less expensive than more advanced rods. This type of rod will help you get used to angling and can give you a better idea of what you like in a rod such as its length, weight, balance and action.
On the other hand, if you’re sure that you’ll be fishing a lot, it might be a better idea to invest in medium cost rod and then as you get better, you can work your way towards purchasing a more advanced fishing rod.
Regardless, beginners should always try to aim for rods rated with a medium action, meaning that the rod is flexible, but not too flexible, which will allow you to feel when a fish bites down on the bait.
Choosing the Best Fishing Rod
Using a quality fishing rod will not only save you a lot of headaches when you’re out on the water, it can also help you catch more fish. It’s important to understand that the type of fishing equipment you use can play a crucial role in your angling success.
Often, beginner fishermen will spend their time waiting for a fish to bite, but when they reel in their line, they discover that their bait is gone and that the fish has gotten away without them even realizing it was there.
Therefore, it’s important to do your research, understand the different components of a fishing rod, the type of fish that you’re targeting, and then you’ll be able to choose the best setup for your particular fishing needs.
There is always a good time to sit down and think about your finances, to work out if you could actually be saving a little bit more than you already are. Savings don’t just have to be for a rainy day fund. Instead, you could be looking to a family holiday or to make sure your Christmas presents are extra special this year. So here are some suggestions for you to make sure you aren’t spending unnecessarily when you could be preparing for something big.
Bills
The bane of everyone’s life, bills. From electricity to water and everything in between we don’t want to pay them but we have to. Fortunately, there are options out there to help you save. Starting with household bills, consider using comparison websites that are designed to specifically reduce your outgoings. You might think it isn’t worth it, but actually, the savings can be quite significant especially with so many companies competing for your business.
In addition to running the house, you also have the other expenses. The ones we don’t need for heat or health, but we wouldn’t be able to do without. These are your phone, internet and other subscriptions. Once again you should be looking at comparison websites for your internet, but don’t be afraid to give your provider a call if you think you aren’t getting the best deal. Often the customer service representative is under instruction to keep business and will therefore go above and beyond to help you.
When it comes to mobile phones, the cost can be staggering. This is especially true when you have a family that all want their own data and text message options. However, the providers of these plans are starting to get wise to this and as a result fairer prices plans like Xfinity Mobile phones are starting to become more popular.
Make sure any bill you sign up for is done with thorough research. It may seem tiresome, but you’ll be thankful when you’re feet are up on the beach next year.
Food Shopping
Our grocery bills are also one of those things that can be significantly affected by having more mouths to feed. The average cost of a weekly food shop for a UK household is up to £89, but it can be reduced by shopping around and once again using the internet to help.
There is a bountiful of websites out there which are offering discount codes and vouchers to use in supermarkets around the country, so make sure you are taking advantage of these options when you are getting out there to shop.
There can sometimes seem to be a social stigma attached to using vouchers, but there shouldn’t be. We should take pride in finding good deals and paying less for our weekly shop when possible.
Once again, don’t think about the stress now of findings these deals. Think about the happy faces at Christmas when your hard-earned savings has helped the family to extra gifts.
If you feel like you have grown out of your home and would like to improve your lifestyle, you will have to choose between turning unfunctional spaces into storage or living area, or adding space through extensions. Unfortunately, both projects will come with a lot of mess and you will need to compare the benefits and the cost before you start making plans. Apart from the finances, you will also have to work out how long you will need to be without a bathroom, central heating and air conditioning, and other services. Below you will find a few tips on how to make your home renovation project work for you.
The Look Of Your Home
The first thing you have to do is make sure that you are going to be happy with the end result. This means that you should create professional plans and check how your home will look like from the inside and the outside. If you are planning on adding an extension, the shape and style of your home will change completely, and you might as well ruin the curb appeal of the house. Engage with a professional and find out how you can improve the look of your home without breaking the bank or reducing the value of your real estate.
Style
You will also have to choose a style that matches your taste and the current property trends, After all, you want to be able to sell on the home when the kids have flown out or you need to relocate. The more popular the layout and style is the better chance you will have to make a good return on your home improvement investment. Home renovations cost a bit, so you need to ensure that you are able to improve the look of your home while making it more comfortable for yourself and your family.
Cost
When decided whether to renovate your property or to add an extra room or two, you need to make sure that you can save money and your sanity, too. You will be able to improve the lifestyle of your family, but at what cost? You might get into debt to pay all the contractors and not even get the results you are expecting. It is always better to invest more in the beginning in your plans to make sure you are not wasting money on features and services you don’t really need.
Stability of Your Home
When making structural changes to your home, or adding extensions, you need to make sure that nothing compromises the stability of the walls and the foundation. If you want your extension to be as strong as your home, you can buy Reinforcement Products Online and join the existing foundation with your new build extension. This is important when it comes to insulation and structural stability.
Heating and Electricity
When you are doing a full renovation in your home, chances are that you will need to upgrade your boiler and your electricity as well at the same time to support the increased number of outlets and radiators. Changing your existing plumbing and heating system is not cheap, so you will need to get a couple of quotes in to find the best solution; extending your system or complete replacement.
Permissions
Your architect firm might be able to take care of the permissions for you, but you also have to check local authority’s building regulations to avoid being caught up in a legal battle. Ask your neighbours about their views, especially if you are looking to complete an extension or a garage conversion. If you live in a townhouse, the noise that comes with the work might upset some of the residents, so you have to make sure you are not creating more problems than necessary.
Roofing
When starting a home extension project, you will also have to consider whether or not to improve your roofing and insulation. The last thing you want to happen is one half of your house looking completely different from the rest, of having problems with dampness and guttering. Consult with a roofing specialist and compare the price of matching your existing roof or replacing the entire structure and all the tiles.
If you are considering a major home improvement or an extension project, you need to be aware of the difficulties ahead and calculate the total cost, or you might end up in debt and never be able to finish the work on your own.
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