Identifying Signs of Infestation

Recognizing the signs of an infestation is important to ensure your home is pest-free before your event. Look for droppings, gnaw marks, or unusual scents, as these indicators may suggest the presence of pests and help you narrow down what it might be. For example, droppings from rodents can be found near their burrows or nesting areas, while the shed exoskeletons of insects may signal a larger problem. Observing these signs can help you take appropriate measures and use the right techniques to address the situation. Keeping your spaces clean and clutter-free can also make it easier to spot these warning signs.

Implementing Preventative Measures

Taking preventative measures can significantly reduce the chances of pests making an appearance. Sealing entry points such as cracks, and gaps around doors, and windows can help deter pests from entering your home. Keeping food stored in airtight containers and regularly disposing of trash can also limit their food sources. Additionally, maintaining a tidy environment, particularly in common gathering areas, can help prevent pest attraction. These measures can provide a more hygienic setting for your event and regular inspections will ensure any potential issues are addressed promptly.

Considering Professional Help

If you notice signs of infestation that you cannot manage yourself, considering professional pest control, like Eary Termite & Pest Services, is advisable. These experts have the right tools and knowledge to address a variety of pest issues efficiently and safely. Many pest control companies provide inspections and treatments tailored to your specific situation. They can identify the extent of the problem and recommend effective solutions, allowing you to focus on hosting your event. Additionally, they can offer preventative tips to help you avoid future infestations. Investing in professional services can provide peace of mind when preparing your home.

When to Book a General Event Venue

In some cases, if pests become a significant issue that you cannot handle effectively before the event, booking an event venue can be a practical alternative. A General Event Venue provides a controlled environment where pest problems are likely addressed regularly. This option allows you to avoid the stress of worrying about pests in your home while still hosting a successful gathering. Before deciding, consider the costs and benefits of this approach for your specific event. Ultimately, prioritizing the comfort of your guests will allow you to enjoy your occasion without unnecessary worries.

Preparing for an event can be stressful, but addressing potential pest issues ahead of time can help create a pleasant atmosphere for your guests. By understanding common pests, identifying signs of infestation, and implementing preventative measures, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of unwelcome intruders. If challenges arise that you feel are beyond your control, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance. Alternatively, considering a venue designed for events can relieve some of the pressure associated with hosting at home. Remember, your focus should be on enjoying the gathering and creating memorable experiences with your loved ones.

Photo Credit

Photo is from Pexels

Guest Author Bio
Rachelle Wilber

About the Author: Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s in journalism and media studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, on the beach, or at the gym.

My partner and I have been permanent housesitters around Greater Victoria for more than eight years now, and before that, volunteers with Cuso International in Honduras and Nicaragua. We slept in the beds that came with the house rentals in Central America, and have slept in probably 60 or more beds since returning to Vancouver Island in May 2016 and taking up a life of living in other people’s houses while they travel.

We had a classic black and white striped mattress with coils you could feel through the padding in our Copan Ruinas time, and then quite a decent and stiff box spring set in Managua, where you need a bed that barely dents when laid on if you’re going to survive months of 38 C with nothing but a ceiling fan.

We logged some crazy mattress hours when travelling in the countryside with our Central American work colleagues, who could sleep with ease in the damndest situations and expected us to do the same when on the road with them. The nights of six people in one small room on homemade bunk beds stand out for me.

Since returning to Victoria, we’ve pretty much had every variation of bed: some with super-thick mattresses, rock-hard ones, memory foam, one that was too short, adjustable ones that tilted up at head, foot and middle. Some have rolled us inward, while others sent us plummeting to the floor on a sloped edge. We generally get a decent night’s sleep no matter what.

We’ve had a few conversations with people who would like to be permanent housesitters like us. I wouldn’t say that an ability to put up with any kind of mattress is the first thing that needs to be considered, but it definitely needs some thought. Are you prepared to spend all your nights on whatever bed is in play? Are you ready to give up that late-holiday yearning for a return to your own bed?

People hearing for the first time that we are permanent housesitters – perhaps more realistically described as houseless drifters who carry their belongings around in reuseable grocery bags and mismatched totes – have one of two reactions. Either their faces light up and they immediately start thinking about how cool it might be to do the same, or they pull back in instant horror. It’s as clear as that.

If you’re the type who would lean in excitedly, housesitting as a lifestyle choice has a lot of pros.

The permanent housesitter lives virtually without household costs, enjoying a wonderfully diverse array of experiences in all kinds of different homes and locations that might otherwise be outside their affordability range.

They aren’t weighed down by stuff, mortgages or tenancy agreements. They never have to worry about managing bad neighbours; they’ll never have one for longer than a few months at most. They live in the gaps of other people’s lives, which really appeals to me at a philosophical level as another way to minimize my impact on this world.

The daily reality, of course, does have some bumps that have to be considered.

For one thing, you’re almost certainly going to have a series of dogs to look after, because that’s the No. 1 reason people want a housesitter in the first place, based on our experience. We love dogs, so yay to that, but they do require your full attention, especially if you want the homeowner to invite you back.

For another, you’re going to live like a packhorse. Cancel out any images in your head of a footloose housesitter arriving at your latest housesit with a breezy backpack and nothing more. This is your LIFE, so you’re going to arrive at every door with bags and bags of the craziest stuff. (We never let our hosts see us move in or out.)

Anything you can’t live without, you’re going to be carrying around. I think you’d be surprised at just how many things you end up carrying.

Some examples from our own experience: My keyboard and stacks of music, because I must have piano time in my life. Our sound bar and Roku box, because you can’t be sure whether a person’s going to have good TV sound and a Netflix subscription.

Baking utensils, laptops and electronics, essential spices or cooking oils, a favourite frying pan. All bathroom stuff. (I invite you to open up your bathroom cupboards right now and reflect on how many things that actually is.) My makeup and jewellry. A giant light-up 10x mirror, because who can put their makeup on without one?

Seasonal clothing and outer wear, while remembering at least a few fancier pieces for when you go out. The perfect collection of five pairs of shoes/boots that cover all needs. Recreational equipment, like our two bikes, a folding kayak, a blow-up boat for the grandkids. Food and baking supplies, including the 20-kg bag of sugar bought impulsively during the Rogers Sugar Crisis of 2023.

And obviously, it would not be the life for your child-rearing years. That would just be a misery all round.

The housesit that you’re moving into may or may not be ready for all the stuff you’ll be dragging. We’ve had housesits where people kindly clear out dresser drawers and space in the closet for our clothes and leave a roomy fridge, and housesits without an inch of space to spare anywhere. You won’t know which one you’re getting until you move in, so that old Cuso International motto of “flexible and adaptable” that got us through our four-plus years in Central America is still as useful as ever.

How often will you be moving? So often. Curious people who think they want to give housesitting a try ask me for advice and inevitably note that they’d prefer something long-term. Just let that concept of long-term fly right out of your head if you’re thinking about this life. Mostly you’re going to be moving every three to four weeks.

As I write, we’re living in a Fairfield housesit that we’ve been in for four years, but there is a unique and quirky series of reasons for why it has lasted this long, starting with the pandemic. I’m very sure we’ll never see the likes of this housesit again. And even though it’s been four years, we’ve still had to live that whole time in complete uncertainty, having to be at least somewhat prepared to move out at any moment.

So maybe you’ll be the lucky housesitter who lands the year-long gig in some perfect beachfront home, but I’d strongly counsel against even thinking that’s remotely likely. If you aren’t prepared to move around a lot, with much loading and unloading of your weird pile of stuff, you’ll grow tired of this life very quickly.

One more thing: It’s a lot of work to ensure a steady string of housesits, particularly without a Plan B. When we’re in full drifter mode, I’m constantly hustling and looking. People aren’t going to drop housesits in your lap, so be prepared to devote time to the hunt.

But if you’ve read to this point and are still thinking that a housesitting life sounds great, let me tell you, it’s got a lot going for it (and not just the absence of household costs, though that is obviously a very significant draw.) If you like staying in motion, keeping things lean, a constant change of scenery and time spent with many, many dogs and the occasional cat, it’s all that and more.

As it turns out, housesitting also lets us spend time in beautiful homes on well-gardened properties that we’d never be enjoying if it weren’t for housesitting. We had a full-size pool for one long, hot August stay, and have spent many weeks in Gulf Island homes close to the water.

We’ve enjoyed the most gigantic televisions. We’ve lounged on the nicest of decks and the comfiest of lazyboy chairs. Housesitting brings so much variety into my dog walks and cycling as well, with one new neighbourhood after another to explore.

“It is within the tension that uncertainty brings that creativity is truly born,” wrote Daniella Sachs on Medium. If uncertainty and constant change is your jam, this is the life.

Photo Credit

Photo is from Pixabay by Sinousxl

First published at A Closer Look: Jody Paterson

Selecting the Right Technology to Reduce Health Risks

The choice of technology in your home office goes beyond performance; it’s fundamentally about safeguarding your health. In addition to the well-known risks associated with electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and blue light, other environmental factors such as noise pollution and sedentary lifestyle habits also play a significant role.

Understanding EMFs

Virtually all electronic devices emit electromagnetic fields (EMFs). While the health impacts of EMFs are still a topic of ongoing research, some people report experiencing symptoms that align with electromagnetic hypersensitivity, which can include headaches, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. To mitigate these risks, consider arranging your workspace to keep electronic devices like routers, printers, and cell phones at a distance when not in use. Additionally, EMF shields and other protective gear can be employed to further reduce exposure.

Dealing with Blue Light

Digital screens emit blue light, leading to eye strain and disrupting sleep patterns. To protect your eyes, opt for monitors that have built-in blue light filters or wear protective eyewear that blocks blue light. Adjusting the brightness and contrast of your screen to comfortable levels and following the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds) can also help reduce eye strain.

Managing Noise Pollution

In a home environment, controlling noise can be challenging but is essential for maintaining focus and reducing stress. Use noise-cancelling headphones to block out ambient sounds, or consider soundproofing your workspace with acoustic panels. Creating a quiet work environment helps maintain mental clarity and reduces the cognitive load that often comes with constant background noise.

Addressing Sedentary Habits

The sedentary nature of desk jobs can lead to a range of health issues, including back pain, obesity, and increased risk of chronic diseases. To combat this, integrate technology that encourages movement, such as sit-stand desks or under-desk bikes. Additionally, setting reminders to stand up and move around or to do brief exercises can significantly enhance your physical health and energy levels.

Essential Elements for a Wellness-Oriented Home Office

Designing a home office with wellness in mind involves more than just ergonomic chairs and desks. It’s about creating a space that promotes health and productivity. Here are some key elements to consider:

Ergonomic Furniture:

Invest in good quality chairs and desks with ergonomic designs that help maintain proper posture and reduce the risk of back pain and other musculoskeletal issues. Adjustable features allow for a more personalized setup, enhancing comfort and efficiency. Consider incorporating dynamic furniture, such as kneeling chairs or balance ball chairs, which encourage movement and active sitting, promoting better circulation and muscle engagement.

Natural Lighting

Where possible, arrange your workspace to take advantage of natural light. Exposure to natural light during the day can boost your mood and energy levels, improving productivity and well-being. Additionally, properly positioning your desk to avoid glare on your computer screen can help reduce eye strain, and using adjustable window treatments can help control the amount of light that enters the room throughout the day.

Air Quality

Good ventilation is crucial, especially in spaces where electronics are in use. Air purifiers can help remove contaminants and ensure you breathe clean air. Indoor plants not only improve air quality but also add a touch of nature, which can be calming and reduce stress. To further enhance air quality, consider using a dehumidifier or humidifier to maintain optimal humidity levels, which can affect both comfort and health.

Personal Touches

Personalizing your space with art, photos, or motivational quotes can make your home office a more enjoyable and inspiring place to work. These elements can constantly remind you of your personal goals and the aesthetic pleasures that make daily work more enjoyable. Organizing a personal space that reflects your personal style can also help stimulate creativity and promote a sense of well-being.

Daily Routines to Maximize Productivity and Minimize Health Issues

Creating routines is as important as the physical setup of your workspace. A structured daily routine helps in maintaining focus and managing time effectively. Here are some tips to incorporate into your daily remote work routine:

Set Clear Boundaries:

Define your work hours and stick to them. This helps in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. By clearly separating your personal and professional time, you reduce the risk of burnout and increase your overall job satisfaction.

Take Regular Breaks:

Schedule short breaks throughout your day. Use this time to step away from your desk, stretch, or do a quick physical activity. These breaks are not only essential for physical health but also reinvigorate the mind, leading to more productive work sessions.

Stay Organized:

Keep your workspace tidy and organized. Clutter can lead to increased stress and decrease productivity. Regularly decluttering your space can also help in maintaining a clear division between work and leisure areas, which is especially important in a home environment.

Practice Mindfulness:

Incorporate mindfulness exercises like meditation or deep breathing into your routine to help manage stress and enhance concentration. Such practices can ground your thoughts and foster a relaxed yet alert state, ideal for tackling complex tasks with greater ease and efficiency.

Making Wellness a Priority in Your Home Office Design

As remote work continues to be a staple for many, designing a home office that prioritizes wellness is not just beneficial—it’s essential. By selecting the right technology, setting up a health-conscious workspace, and following a structured routine, you can create an environment that promotes productivity and supports your overall health. Remember, a well-designed home office is crucial to your professional success and personal well-being.

In the broader perspective, the effort you put into designing a thoughtful, health-oriented workspace extends benefits beyond immediate physical and mental well-being. It can lead to long-term career satisfaction and efficiency, reducing the likelihood of work-related illnesses and increasing your potential for professional growth. By making wellness integral to your home office design, you’re not just crafting a space for work but building a foundation supporting sustained personal and professional fulfillment. This holistic approach ensures that your workspace is more than just functional—it becomes a vital contributor to your overall quality of life.

Photo Credit

Image by StockSnap from Pixabay

Guest Author Bio
Danika

Danika is a ten-year veteran of the SEO industry and is based in Boise, Idaho. Outside of work, she enjoys playing video games and podcasting about The Bachelor.

According to Wang Mi-Sun, a casino expert and tipster, ‘‘한국 인터넷카지노사이트 에서 마음껏 즐기는 오락활동은 여러분의 인생에 긍정적인 영향을 끼칠 뿐만 아니라 일상생활에 도움이 될 몇가지 필수 기술들을 익힐 수 있는 좋은 기회입니다. 하지만 여러분이 알아야 할 것은, 여느 다른 중독과 마찬가지로 이 여가활동에 대한 중독은 건강에 좋지 않을 수도 있다는 겁니다. 비록 이것이 우리 삶에 긍정적인 영향을 끼칠지라도 말입니다. 그렇기 때문에, 도박에 대한 책임감있는 태도가 이러한 문제를 예방할 수 있는 해결책으로 주장되고 권고되고 있습니다. ’’

Translation: Enjoying entertainment to your heart’s content on Korean Internet casino sites is a great opportunity to learn some essential skills that will not only have a positive impact on your life, but will also help you in your daily life. But what you need to know is that, like any other addiction, addiction to this pastime can be unhealthy. Even if this has a positive impact on our lives. That is why a responsible attitude towards gambling is advocated and recommended as a solution to prevent these problems.

Despite the seemingly bad optics, this article reveals how this activity can positively affect your life.

1 – Better Decision-Making Skills

Every decision bettors make while gambling is crucial as it can lead to winning a jackpot or losing a lot of money. Gambling is one activity that can help bettors learn how to make crucial decisions under a lot of pressure. It can also positively affect one’s logic as it is an activity that requires one to make fast, informed decisions. Bettors generally think more strategically after playing a few games in online casinos, which can help them make good decisions in other aspects of their lives.

Online casinos are filled with thousands of talented and experienced gamers who know everything about how casino games work. The pressure when playing games with professionals like this is intense. However, intimidation is a potent casino weapon that can be used against amateurs to push them off balance. Hence, gambling teaches bettors to stay composed and calm to make the best decisions regardless of pressure or skill.

2 – Stress Relief

Gambling is an activity that comes with a lot of pressure, as a lot is usually at stake, so the fact that it helps to relieve stress might seem ironic. However, gambling does not always have to be intense, depending on the bettor’s intentions. When playing for fun in online casinos, the usual tension and fear that gamers have will be absent. You tend to feel more relaxed. Hence, players derive better entertainment and thrill from these games.

This can help gamblers relax and enjoy a good gaming time, regardless of the winners or losers in the gaming activities. Most people today also play mobile games with friends or strangers online when stressed to have some fun while cooling off.

3 – Good Socialization Skills

Online casinos in South Korea and other countries worldwide have thousands of gamers who play games together and connect in a friendly and non-toxic environment. Several gamers who have never met in real time have had the opportunity to make great friends with similar hobbies through gambling.

Online wagering is also an activity where players have to interact with each other at one point or another. It can help build great relationships with people worldwide and earn a massive network of friends that can be helpful in several other aspects of life. Introverts who prefer to play online can also gain tons of experience if they’re in a group or forum with another bettor. You don’t have to worry about how you look or what you’re wearing. You can be in your room and build meaningful relationships online.

4 – Better Understanding of Time and Money

Time and money are two vital factors that can never be foreign to a bettor. Before any person can be referred to as a gamer, the person must have understood the concept of time management and money, as failure to do that will only earn such a person a losing streak. A responsible bettor knows the importance of budgeting and does nothing without having a clear budget. Thousands can disappear in a blink of an eye while gambling, but a good gamer only stakes the money they are comfortable with losing. Gambling also helps people learn when to be resilient and when to give up for the day.

It also helps understand every second’s impacts and how to remain composed and make the best decisions under all that pressure. Time management is also a vital skill that gambling can teach. Sometimes, a second of hesitation can determine the results of a game, and so can impatience.

Conclusion

Gambling can be a healthy leisure activity that can help one learn specific life skills. However, refusing to adhere to the rules of responsible gambling in Korea is what will lead this unharmful hobby to affect one’s life negatively. The advice is to gamble responsibly at all times.

Photo Credits
Slot Machine – Unsplash
Money – Unsplash

Guest Author Bio
Wang Mi-Sun

Wang Mi-Sun is a skilled content writer with 7+ years of experience in copywriting and content writing. She is proficient in working on multiple projects and delivering content for various platforms, including social media, blogs and web content.

Starting fresh can also be daunting. Even if you feel that your current location is holding you back from becoming your best self, a big move can cause extra stress and knock down your confidence.

Whether you are moving for a new job or to get away from a bad situation, a change of scenery can help you reconsider your life goals and give you renewed purpose. But before you pack your bags and set off, there are a few steps you should take to ensure your new move goes as smoothly as possible.

Choosing a Location

Once you’ve decided to make a move, you need to find a location that will support you and your life goals. Finding the right location can spark a period of growth and joy as you learn to appreciate life in a new home.

There are a few considerations to account for when moving to start a new life. First and foremost, you need to account for your financial situation and your chance of finding a job when you move. It’s crucial to quit your job at the right time so you don’t lose your income at a critical juncture.

Beyond financial restrictions, you may want to consider factors like:

• Typical weather and climate in the new area
• Proximity to facilities and amenities
• Distance from your existing support network
• Values and like-minded people

This shortlist will help you cut down on a lot of potential places to live. Cross off any dealbreakers like poor weather or misalignment of values. You can then rank your remaining candidates based on your top priorities, like meeting like-minded people or living in a city with great nightlife.

It’s worth bearing in mind that some moves will promote more internal growth than others. For example, if you move to a new country, you may have to learn a new language and adapt to different customs. Sometimes a major shakeup like this can be just what you need to discover a new facet of your identity.

The Moving Checklist

There’s a lot to remember before you make a big move. Ensuring everything goes smoothly takes plenty of forethought and planning — even if the decision to move was a spontaneous one.

Start assembling your moving checklist well before you move. Make a moving folder with insurance records, receipts, and other important information that you need to keep safe. You can start getting mover parking permits at this time and should schedule some time off work.

You’ll want to start changing your bank details and decluttering your house a few weeks before the big day. Living out of boxes is frustrating, but it’s far better than packing in a panic. Remember to let the post office know you’re moving and give them a forwarding address.

The day before you move, you should clean out your fridge and freezer and put your important documents in a safe bag for transport. Break down the last of your furniture and try your best to get to bed early that night. Even if you’re excited, a full night’s sleep will give you the endurance you need to see the move through.

Planning a Long Distance Move

You’ve chosen your location and are ready to set sail, hit the highway, or board a plane. But before you move, it’s worth planning the trip itself to ensure that you hit the ground running when you arrive at your new home. This is particularly important if you’re planning a long-distance move and can’t make a quick return trip to pick up items you accidentally left behind.

When planning a long-distance move, you should set a clear budget for your moving expenditures. Moving services, packing supplies, storage, and travel costs can escalate quickly. Keep a tight budget on non-essentials to ensure you don’t drop a small fortune on the move itself.

If you’re moving across states, you might be tempted to drive the distance yourself. However, flying may end up being the most cost-effective method in the long run. Driving across states can put thousands of miles of wear and tear on your car. This may lead to repair work being needed earlier than you expected. If possible, consider shipping your car instead of driving to keep the miles off while you travel in comfort.

Avoiding Previous Missteps

If you’re moving to reinvent yourself, you may have made a few mistakes in your life. Give yourself a break when moving and embrace this new opportunity with an open mind and a positive attitude.

As you start to settle in, intentionally make plans to break up the monotony of life and explore your new home further. It’s easy to get stuck in a rut if you visit the same restaurants or do the same leisure activities. Push your boundaries by joining a club, visiting a new cafe, or taking a staycation in your new home.

Conclusion

Moving somewhere new is a great way to reinvent yourself and start learning more about who you are, as well as who you want to be. You can make the big move a success by choosing the right location and planning well in advance. Avoid falling into previous habits by pushing your boundaries and finding a support network through clubs or community groups.

Photo Credit

Photo by Handiwork NYC on Unsplash

Guest Author Bio
Jori Hamilton

Jori Hamilton is a writer and journalist from the Pacific Northwest who covers social justice issues, healthcare, and politics. You can follow her work on twitter @HamiltonJori, and through her portfolio at Writer Jori Hamilton.

Most people have a few near misses during their lives, but looking back, I have had more than my share of close scrapes, dating all the way back to my childhood. So in this article, I decided I would share these with you, as a cautionary tale to would-be adventurers.

Author George Burden has had a number of close encounters with peril

Close encounter number 1:

When I was eight I was in the habit of climbing a steep cliff behind my grandmother’s house on Bonavista Bay in eastern Newfoundland. The incentive was that at the top of the cliff lived my Aunt Gladys, who always had freshly baked bread for me should I drop by. Of course, I could have taken the road up instead, but that was a long walk. It was a beautiful summer’s day and the sun glimmered on the bay. As I scooted over a hump at the very top of the cliff, I slipped and found myself hanging over the edge of a sheer hundred foot drop. Luckily, my cousin Clifford happened by and pulled me up. I dusted myself off and went on for a feed of bread and molasses.

Close encounter number 2:

By now I was 15, and at this point in my life I spent a month in West Africa, mostly in Ghana but there was also a brief visit to Upper Volta (now Burkina Faso). We traversed the country, visiting the Akoneda Shrine (the local juju magic school) and experienced a private audience with the King of the Ashanti at his palace in Kumasi. Nothing too serious happened while in Africa (though there was a military coup a month after I went home and the king was very annoyed that one of our party did not wear a tie…). However, shortly after I got back to Canada, I started having high fevers and chills. It took a while for the doctors to figure it out, but finally they concluded: I had contracted malaria. Thankfully it wasn’t the rapidly fatal “blackwater fever” but a somewhat more treatable variety.

Close encounter number 3:

There was quite a gap between age 15 and my next effort to do myself in. The ten-thousand-foot jump from an airplane and subsequent free-falling went without a hitch. However, while hiking a glacier in Iceland, I was trying to get the perfect photo of a glacial mill, a hole in the ice about 200 feet deep. The ice around the mill was a lustrous blue, and as I straddled it to get my shot, I slipped. Thankfully my cleats caught the ice and I managed to wrench myself backwards to safety. Had I not done so I would have emerged a few hundred years later as an “ice man”.

Getting ready to head for the cliffs

Close encounter number 4

My next near-lethal exercise occurred while diving in the Galapagos Islands. The near miss with a man-eating Galapagos shark wasn’t as much of a close call, since I managed to find myself a few people between me and it. However, while trying out my new underwater camera, desperate to get close-up footage of three graceful eagle rays… I got a little too close. It turned out that the two smaller rays following the large one were male rays on the prowl. When one of them reached the female, the water suddenly erupted into a wild thrashing mass of razor sharp, poisonous spikes. They whipped within inches of my body and face, but amazingly, I wasn’t touched. Check out this video of spotted eagle rays.

Close encounter number 5

After that, at least for a while, I was more cautious. However, while cruising Antarctica a few years later I climbed to the top of a snow-covered cliff (childhood habit) and sat down at the top to have a snack. The problem was that the top of the cliff overlooked an ice-encrusted rocky beach about 200 feet below. Heights don’t bother me, but while chowing down, I had moved imperceptibly closer to the edge. As the snow underneath me started to crumble, one of the guides advised me to move slightly forward. I did so, probably for the best.

Close encounter number 6

My “Top Gun” F-18 aerial combat exercise, including pulling 6.9 G’s and getting radar locks on our opponents, did not involve any unforeseen events. I have to say, though, that at certain points in the exercise, air-sickness from barrel rolls, loops, dives, etc., made me contemplate the end of times in a not totally unfavourable light.

Gearing up for aerial combat

Close encounter number 7

A shark swimming the Great Barrier Reef

My next self-destructive attempt involved chasing after a shark while diving on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Once again my camera was the culprit. When I spotted the shark, my first impulse was to get as close as possible so that I could take video. For this reason I paddled like mad towards the formidable predator. To be fair, he was only a few feet longer than me (I’m 6 feet and 1 inch) and it must have been rather odd for something to actually chase him (or her). The shark stared at me for a few moments, probably confused, and then decided that anything worth eating probably wouldn’t be swimming rapidly towards it. With a disgusted look it bolted for deeper water when I had barely gotten within ten feet.

Close encounter number 8

Argentina is a lovely country and Buenos Aires a beautiful capital city. Unfortunately, the good people of this country have had their shares of economic ills, and as I left for the international airport after an enjoyable visit, I noticed large crowds of people gathering followed by the arrival of police vehicles. I believe the riots started just as my flight back to Canada lifted off the tarmac. That was cutting things even closer than the military coup in Ghana.

I am sure I could add to the list, however, I am getting a little depressed. As an army sergeant once put it: “Nobody is entirely f***** useless. They can always serve as a horrible example.”

I consider my job done.

Image Credits

All images courtesy of Dr George Burden—all rights reserved.

Not quite sure how to get there? Try the 6 ideas below and you’ll be well on your way to creating the peaceful, stress-free home you’ve always wanted.

1. Keep the Entrance Clean

Having a clean entranceway is a great place to start! Not only will you appreciate walking into a relaxing environment, but as an important first point of interaction, so will your guests.

Work to eliminate any debris around the front door and allow it to open freely. Instead of positioning a shoe rack or a large piece of furniture next to the door, try adding mirrors or flowers for a less-cluttered feel. This little space is the quickest way to lift the overall mood of the home and create a peaceful, more welcoming atmosphere.

2. Declutter From Top to Bottom

Decluttering your entire home goes a long way toward creating a more stress-free environment. It helps to remove toxic energy and encourages a sense of balance and relaxation. Try minimizing furniture and home decor (do you really need 6 vases?) and replace any worn-out pieces. Aim to create space, which will allow peaceful energy to flow through your home.

3. Incorporate Memories

Think about incorporating items from the past into your current surroundings; things that have always brought you joy and made you feel at home. Sometimes it can be as simple as hanging a picture of people who make you smile every time you look at them. You may want to experiment with different frames, particularly for memories like a sentimental tour in another country or a beautiful family wedding. Hanging custom canvas prints on your wall can help you preserve those beautiful memories and promote the stress-free environment you’re looking for.

Canvaspop canvas print – mom and daughter

4. Add Some Greenery

Plants play a significant role in generating good energy in our homes. Not artificial energy, but true energy. A bouquet of flowers, a collection of branches or several household plants will all add freshness to your space. Bringing plants into your home cleanses and oxygenates the air and creates a wonderful therapeutic effect. They bring a sense of vitality to the home, and combine seamlessly with all types of architecture. Not to mention, they look great! Consider plants like bonsai, bamboo and even basil. These plants are known to radiate positive energy in addition to adding a decorative feel.

5. Use Scent

One of the best ways to de-stress your home is with scented candles or incense. Scent has a significant effect on how you feel and can help boost your mood. A pleasant scent can also help eliminate cooking odors and allow for positive energy to flow in the home.

Studies have shown that olfaction and emotion are closely linked. With this in mind, you may want to consider using scents such as lavender and citrus which are believed to produce endorphins in the body, allowing for a more peaceful and comfortable state.

6. Rearrange the Furniture

Furniture offers comfort, but how you arrange it also plays a major role. You should be able to navigate easily and freely through your home, removing anything that obstructs your sight. Being able to move through your home safely contributes to the home’s peaceful atmosphere.

Another thing to keep in mind when choosing a location for your furniture is to strive for a harmonious feel on each side of the space you’re working with. Remove any sharp-edged, angular furniture and replace with a softer, more rounded style. For example, a round coffee table as opposed to a square or rectangular one immediately signals a more inviting atmosphere.

Just by making a few changes, you can quickly transform your home into a peaceful oasis and it doesn’t have to be hard on the pocketbook. So if you’re feeling the need to de-stress your surroundings, try these simple ideas and watch your home transform into a place you love to come home to.  Leave me a comment and let me know which ones really worked for you!

Photo Credits

Furniture image by Stencil
Canvaspop canvas print – from Canvaspop

Guest Author Bio
Trenton J. Smith

Trenton is an aspiring writer who loves to research and write about a wide variety of topics. When he is not writing, he enjoys gardening and long walks with his dog Boomer.

In today’s busy world, people sometimes don’t understand that we require both physical activity and healthy eating habits to develop a healthy body. A healthy diet is a way to ensure our exercise efforts show a hundred percent results while making our bodies clean. We live in a world of excess; in particular, we’re surrounded by an abundance of food choices. Most of our beliefs about food, fitness and nutrition today is influenced by the manipulative world of capitalist economy and market. In the scenario of the cutthroat economic world, it’s one’s health that suffers the most.

After a few months of dedicated research, I was able to conclude that healthy eating habits are more important than exercise if we want to live a life filled with forever fitness, development and success. How can healthy eating habits be more important than exercise? First, let me start with how I even became interested in this subject.

It all began with my acne, which can’t be cured by itself or without regular medicines. I have tried several treatments, both homeopathic and allopathic, for years. Out of all of them, only one worked. That one treatment was through the advice of my doctor who made me quit all types of unhealthy products. Within three months, my face was completely free of blemishes or marks from acne.

I have read some of the major theories about evolution, ancestors and our lives in the present-day world. I realized that our physical fitness includes ninety-five percent of our eating habits and only five percent of physical exercise. Both are necessary and interconnected with each other. Eric Edmeades, an author, speaker and entrepreneur, has proven the same in his program WildFit. 

What does evolution have to do with healthy eating habits? Well, three thousand years ago our ancestors were hunters and gatherers. Due to climatic conditions and constant movement, they had to store food for survival. This food was seasonal, not a plate full of a variety of food, which has been called a ‘healthy diet’ by our present-day food experts, food code-makers and agencies. A healthy diet is not about eating all kinds of food or products. It is about eating natural, seasonal food that’s not polluted with unhealthy material like chemicals or sugar.

Does this mean exercise is not necessary? No. We still need physical activity to make our bodies completely healthy, even if it is only five percent of the whole process. But what kind of physical activity? I enjoy dancing and basic yoga, and every day for at least thirty minutes, whenever possible, I enjoy doing one or the other. There are lots of options to choose from, like Zumba or even walking. Just don’t limit yourself to exercise that keeps you in your comfort zone. Deliberately push yourself, even if it’s just for five more minutes. In the words of Muhammad Ali, “I don’t count my situps; I only start counting when it starts hurting because they’re the only ones that count.”

What should you avoid eating for a healthy body? Here are some things to consider:

Sugar

There are more than sixty names for sugar in the world of food production and for a valid reason: people get easily addicted to it. Almost all ready-made or instantly-available food products have a high amount of sugar in them, be it green tea or Cornflakes. The only reason behind feeding you so much of sugar is to make you addicted to it and accordingly, making you a loyal consumer of the product.

Chemicals 

What you might think of as natural, isn’t natural at all. Almost every sort of ready-to-eat product, especially the ones which are not raw, has several types of chemicals that are harmful to our body’s metabolism. These chemicals can be any sort of food coloring or preservatives.

Nonseasonal Fruits

The food production industry has developed many artificial means to produce anything and everything, at any time of the year. It is highly recommended to only buy seasonal food, instead of buying all of them in one go. Nonseasonal fruits or vegetables, which might look raw, fresh and healthy, are mostly grown through artificial and unnatural means.

So, what can we do to improve our health? Here are some suggestions:

‘Eat’ Liquid

Yes! It is not necessary to push yourself to drink eight glasses of water every day. You can keep your body hydrated by eating fruits and vegetables that have a high water content. Also, adding  a squeeze of lemon to water or making homemade lemonade keeps it interesting, not to mention healthy and refreshing.

Eat More

If you choose healthy food, you’re not as restricted in terms of the amount you consume. But choosing to eat only natural, seasonal, healthy food is the key. The more you choose healthy food, the better your body will feel.

Physical Activity, No Stress

Any physical activity which stretches your muscles is beneficial. In India, squatting to clean the floor is the best physical exercise for ladies! Also, a muscle’s pull and push is an interesting way to keep away the stress. Trekking or walking is one of my favorites, as it is not only easy but the end destination is always a moment of triumph and relaxation.

The truth is, your physical body is a direct reflection of your diet. As evolution is inevitable, there might come a time when we will get used to the foods of our time. Thus, there is no use stressing about how you look until your body speaks to you, suggesting something other than it feels healthy and just fine. If you know it pains, then don’t ignore it! Consult your doctor, and always check with your dietitian. Don’t always rely on Google. Nonetheless, I am quite sure that balanced food intake, along with 30 minutes of regular physical activity, 15 minutes of silence and laughing crazily can help you live a lifestyle of your dreams in the current world! All of this together makes you healthier inside and out.

As I have in many of my articles, I would like to conclude with a quote by one of the world’s greatest dancers:

“…Dancers come and go in the twinkling of an eye but the dance lives on. On many an occasion when I am dancing, I have felt touched by something sacred. In those moments, I felt my spirit soar and become one with everything that exists…”  – Michael Jackson.

Art of any type has that power! So, whenever you feel sad now, just eat some seasonal food, keep your head held high, look at your target, take a deep breath and shut the world out for a moment before you start climbing again.

Dance like mad until all your lips know is to smile!

Photo Credit

Photo from Pexels  

Guest Author Bio
Ritika Gupta

Ritika Gupta is a published, young female author with more than four years of experience in editing, writing and blogging. She is an eBook designer with her own eBook store. She’s aware of the poor condition of artists/writers in India and thus, aims to continue working as a freelancer who knows the worth of her content. She inspires other artists to fight for the same.

Know more about Ritika here: https://www.ritikapeace.com

In the early days, bingo promoted unification within communities. Later, its benefits continued to be seen during the gloomy days of World War II, where it became a much-needed distraction for those on the home front. By the 1960s, due to the gambling act reform, bingo was in full swing in the UK, rapidly becoming one of the most favored ways to socialize. And because bingo had become more or less a pastime, it was considered to be more a type of lottery than a form of gambling.

Although traditional bingo halls are still alive and well, online bingo sites are increasing in popularity, offering a modern forum in which to play the game. Online players not only enjoy the same entertainment value and social benefits as traditional bingo, but can also stay connected on social media platforms. Another bonus? Online bingo is just a click away.

If you’ve been looking for an exciting, affordable pastime in which to make new friends and are curious about playing  bingo online, here are a few things to consider:

Affordability

Bingo is an affordable, low-cost option for those wanting the gambling thrill without the high stakes of blackjack or poker. With little to lose (yet still quite a bit to win!), the relatively low cost of a game of bingo appeals to a wide variety of people and attracts players of different ages and gender.

Options

While physical venues are still enjoyed by many, one of the draws of online bingo is choice. There are so many options to choose from, and most offer the added interest of chat rooms, forums and blogs. These are fantastic opportunities for players to interact, share some helpful tips and take advantage of special promotions and offers.

Health Benefits

Aside from fun and entertainment, bingo actually provides physical and psychological benefits as well. It helps to reinforce concentration and can stimulate short-term memory. And because of the fun-filled atmosphere, it provides an opportunity to laugh! Laughter relieves stress, and can even boost the immune system. It turns out, bingo is a wonderful addition to a healthy lifestyle, adding a sense of community and social belonging. Bingo brings people together!

While the game of bingo itself has seen its share of changes over the years, it’s maintained the core aspects players have grown to love: it’s fun, it’s social and it’s a game for all ages. Not to mention, there’s the lure of the win! The ‘human’ factor, though, is what adds real value to the game, and is perhaps one of the biggest reasons it has maintained its popularity over the years. With player interaction and guaranteed excitement, bingo is a fun and easy addition to a healthy lifestyle!

Photo Credit

Photo from Flickr – some rights reserved

Guest Author Bio
Patrycja Lewczuk

Patrycja has been involved with online bingo and casino for 3 years and is well-versed in the ins and outs of online gaming. She provides players with sound advice, allowing for a safe and enjoyable online gaming experience.

Sometimes, I think it distracts him. I think he would do well with less stuff and fewer things to make decisions about. Like so many successful people who wear the same thing every day (so they can save their decision making for important things), this would be a great practice for him to embrace.

After ending my first marriage, I divested myself of many of my belongings, but often have felt their loss. I wanted to embrace minimalism. I wanted to truly be able to let go of my attachment to things strictly for the memories they held. My sister is not a minimalist. She likes having nice things. She collects art and kitchen gadgets. She works hard to make her house and yard a showplace. I like visiting her house and sometimes wish our house looked like that. Then, I think about all the work it takes to care for all of it and become exhausted at the very idea. I much prefer reading, playing with the dog, or even meditating over cleaning, arranging, and housekeeping.

For all these reasons, my husband and I both started contemplating embracing minimalism, at least a little. Notice I said contemplating embracing it. After years of buying into consumerism, neither of us was really sure that we could eliminate our attachments to having and buying stuff. If nothing else, though, we knew some decluttering and home improvement was needed to keep us sane.

Closets

I decided we needed to start with the closets. All of them in the house were full. I know this sounds counter to minimalism, but we needed to be able to organize the contents better, especially in the master bedroom. As my husband pointed out, if I gave away all the clothes and shoes I don’t wear, there would be a lot more room. While my itty bitty committee sputtered in the back of my mind, ranting about all of his junk, I realized he was correct. Admittedly, much of that is because I have gained weight and they don’t fit. I am working on it and hope most will fit soon. I’m not sure how many will still be in style, so much of it can go. However, even after cleaning out all the old, I still felt more organization was needed.

After some research, we decided a custom closet system would be worth the investment. It could be tailored to our odd-sized closets and specific organizational challenges. Also, it will add value to the house if we look to sell. It made a big difference, and it also felt true to certain aspects of minimalism. We can’t get rid of everything. Keeping what we do have organized helps us focus on the important things, not on trying to manage or find our stuff.

Offices

We are lucky. We both have our own offices in the house. His office is stuffed with years of paper and detritus. Mine is full with everything we could not find another place for in the house. I thought I had gotten rid of most of my superfluous stuff in my divorce. It’s amazing how fast I replaced it. After purging our closet, we knew how to declutter our respective offices. He spent hours shredding years of paper, and I donated old books and organized my art supplies.

My office is actually the loft. I love the space, but it is lacking in natural light. Like many people, I am more productive and healthy when I get natural sunlight, especially when working. With this missing from my home office, I found myself to be less effective when working there, thus defeating the purpose of a home office. So, once again, despite our attempts at minimalism, we spent money. This time it was spent on adding windows and skylights.

Kitchen

What is it about kitchen gadgets? How many tools do you really need to cook meals? According to my sister, anything that makes one task easier is worth having. I’m not that bad, but it is easy to collect gadgets and tools. I keep thinking I should empty out the cupboards and only keep the necessary items. I couldn’t do it. Some of those gadgets I have been collecting for a while and thought enough of to keep through the divorce. Others were wedding presents (from my latest wedding). However, I can keep from buying anything new and as things wear out, I don’t need to replace them. I have to admit, some things have been moved to that one cupboard in the kitchen that requires a step stool and moving the stand mixer just to access.

Minimalism. We didn’t quite make it. However, we did make good progress. We still have more stuff than we need. I still have a few clothes that don’t fit, but they are motivating me to lose weight. My husband has eliminated some of his “just in case” junk and the rest of it we organized in a set of wood lockers we installed in the garage. While we did spend money in the process, we gained a lot of organization. We have organized everything we kept, and our things do not hold sway over our minds. In my estimation, this makes our foray into minimalism a success. We were feeling bogged down by our possessions. Not any longer. That is a win.

Photo Credit

Photo is public domain from Unsplash on Pixabay

Guest Author Bio
Valerie Jocums

Valerie, originally a computer programmer, is just starting her new career as a writer. She loves the sun, her Australian Shepherd dog, and her husband. When she isn’t mountain biking, listening to music, or reading, she is writing about everything she has learned.

Follow her on twitter: @vkjocums