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The confederate or rebel flags is incorrectly known as the “Stars and Bars”. The original “Stars and Bars” was the first national flag of the Confederacy, and its design was entirely different. Major enthusiasts of Dixie flags still claim that it is a symbol of Southern ancestry and heritage. To them, it also represents a distinction between Southern cultural traditions from that of other US states.

But rebel flags as we know it today were not originally intended to be a symbol. Rather, its creators (confederate army commanders in Virginia) wanted a distinct emblem that would serve as an alternative to the first national emblem of the confederacy (Stars and Bars).

The confederate flag has a rich and interesting history. It went through three major historical stages in which a lot of changes were made both to its design and use especially in the last two stages.

Between 1860 and1861, about 11 southern states US states seceded. and formed the Confederacy. This triggered the American Civil War. By the year 1861, the Confederacy decided on adopting its first national. This would be the first out of three confederate that were subsequently developed. This first was called the Stars & Bars. It had a blue canton and white colored stars. It was similar to that of the US and this is one of the main reasons for its unpopularity among confederates back then

An alternative design was suggested to Congress. This one was red colored with 2 thick diagonal lines (blue colored) and 3 stars.13 white stars were symbolically representing 11 states that seceded from the rest including Missouri and Kentucky. This design was what became the more popularized form of the confederate flag that we know today. Click here for an historical perspective to the past of the embattled confederate flag.

Notable historical changes

First confederate flag was adopted on the 4th of March, 1861 and November 28, 1861. The march edition was the first. It had 7 stars while the November edition was the final one with 13 stars. It was called “Stars & Bars” and used as the official emblem for a while. It was designed by Nicola Marschall a German artist. The design consisted of:

• Three (horizontal) alternating stripes of red & white with of equal height,
• A blue colored square that was two-third of flag’s height that served as Its canton.
• Inside this canton were 13 equal sizes of white stars (each with 5 points), arranged to form a circle which pointed outwards.

This flag was two years before it was redesigned. The major reason for the redesign was the fact that it confused Soldiers on both sides of the war due to the similarities between the Confederate’s “Stars and Bars” with the Union’s “Stars and Stripes,”. This did not go down well with majority of the Confederate Congress hence, they requested a “more Confederate” flag.

The second Confederate national flag: Was adopted on the 1st of May in the year 1863. It was named “Stainless Banner” and was also known by some people as “Stonewall Jackson”. this is because even before it was flown in any battle, it was used to cover Stonewall Jackson’s coffin during his funeral hence, the name. The design was made up of:

• a rectangle. white, with a width that was twice its height
• the canton had a red-colored quadlateral
• within the canton was a blue saltire which had a white outline
• 13 five pointed stars, all white and of equal size

This design came into use as the Naval Ensign for the confederate between 1863 and 1865.

The third national flag: was adopted in March, 1865 and was designed by Arthur L. Rogers. It had the name “The Blood-Stained Banner” and its design consisted of:

• A rectangle, white colored and with a width that is 1.5 times its height
• There was a red vertical stripe on the far right side of the rectangle
• Within the canton was a red-colored quadilatral and a blue saltire with a white outline
• Inside the saltire were 13 stars, white and all of equal size with 5 outwards points

Although this third one wasn’t widely adopted or used since the war was already approaching its end. It was still reported in the Richmond Newspaper of December 1865.Visit http://www.loeser.us/flags/civil.html to learn more about various American flags in history.

Conclusion

Other official and unofficial versions of the flag were also designed in subsequent years. While the Civil War ended in 1865, the confederate flag still gained widespread use and has been associated with various political and even non-political movement. Hence, it has taken on new meanings to various people due to its newly found uses. Despite all controversies surrounding past and present uses, the confederate flag remains a significant part of American history.

 

Why didn’t the cow have any money?

Because the farmer was milking her dry!

If delicious dry strips of beef aren’t at the top of your holiday gift list, they should be. Giving someone a jerky gift box is more than just giving them something tasty to snack on. The different styles, flavors, and meat types make jerky an entire food experience.

Bold new flavors of jerky and exotic meat types are constantly hitting the food market. Now you can try things like coffee-flavored alligator jerky or spicy flavored ostrich jerky. Of course, there are still traditional jerky styles to suit more old fashioned tastebuds.

Read on to find out 4 reasons jerky makes the perfect gift.

1. Jerky Gift Box Items Are Fun

The beauty of a jerky gift box is the opportunity it provides to add variety to your gift. Instead of buying a prepacked gift box, you can pick each item yourself. Here are some of the items to include in your delicious crate of jerky:

• Variety of jerky sizes, flavors, and styles
• Jerky related t-shirts
• Candy with meat in it
• Spices
• Flavored nuts

When picking out items to put in your gift box, remember that you’ll want a wide selection. Including a variety of jerky sizes and flavors will make the box more exciting and visually appealing. Large pieces of jerky, medium-sized pieces, and small pieces will all blend to create a treasure chest of choices.

Along with providing size variety, you’ll also want to include a mix of flavors, jerky styles, and meat types.

2. Exciting Flavor Choices

One of the best things about jerky is all of the different flavor choices you’ll have. Do you want to create a jerky gift box that’s full of hot and spicy meat treats? Or are you looking to create a flavor blend that’s sweeter like teriyaki?

Whatever flavors you’re looking for, you’ll be able to find a jerky brand that can accommodate. Here are a few of the different jerky flavors you can choose from:

• Smokey honey
• Sweet barbecue
• Spicy cajun
• Fruity
• Coffee
• Citrus
• Bacon
• Garlic pepper

The list of jerky flavors just keeps going and going. Almost every day it seems like a new flavor is being released. Remember, instead of only buying one type of flavor, go ahead and get a little bit of each.

Creating Flavor Experiences

Remember, the goal isn’t to fill a box up with the perfect flavor choices. While of course, it would be awesome for every flavor to be a hit, that doesn’t have to happen for your gift to be a success.

Jerky gift boxes are all about providing the recipient with an experience. You’re giving the receiver of the gift a chance to try new foods that they probably wouldn’t otherwise. So go ahead and be bold when choosing jerky flavors; it’s part of what makes jerky such an exciting gift.

3. Great Textures and Styles

Food scientists now know that texture plays a major role in how we experience taste. The type of style you choose will affect the texture of the jerky and, as a result, the taste. As you shop for different jerky products, look for a blend of both dry and tender types of meat.

Here are some of the different jerky styles and textures.

• Strips
• Nuggets
• Sticks
• Hard and dry
• Soft and tender

Whether you’re looking for rough, soft, juicy, or dry, there’s a jerky style out there for everyone.

Hard and Dry Jerky

If you want jerky that’s as hard as a rock, you’ll need to get it old fashioned style. Hard, dry, jerky is usually a favorite of long-time jerky enthusiasts. One of the biggest appeals of hard jerky is how long it lasts.

Long-lasting jerky means more time to appreciate the flavor as you chew, chew, chew. Old fashioned jerky is also famous for being the style of jerky that cowboys used to eat. Some of the flavors that go best with old fashioned styled jerky include black pepper, teriyaki, and hickory.

4. Jerky Meats Are Exotic

What do alligators, elks, and kangaroo all have in common? They all make delicious jerky! Yep, that’s right, you can make jerky out of almost any type of meat. Here’s a list of the different jerky meat types you can choose from:

• Fish
• Deer
• Alpaca
• Salmon
• Buffalo
• Duck
• Ostrich
• Snake
• Turkey
• Boar
• Yak

Each separate animal meat will bring its unique taste and texture.

Alpaca Jerky

Alpaca jerky is famous worldwide for being both full of flavor and healthy. The alpaca meat contains less fat and cholesterol than more traditional red meats do, like beef. Alpaca jerky is also popular for having considerably less sodium than other meat types.

Kangaroo Jerky

Kangaroo jerky has a unique flavor that goes well with sweet sauces. This jerky also has health benefits because it’s high in protein and iron. Kangaroo jerky is also leaner than other red meats, while still being incredibly tasty.

Personalize Your Gift

Finally, your jerky gift box will be complete once you personalize it. So far we’ve been discussing what jerkys to choose for your gift box. Yet, you can also take advantage of the box itself to make your gift more personal.

For example, for a sports enthusiast, you could choose a gift box color and colored tissue paper that matches their favorite team’s colors. If your friend loves the beach, use a sand bucket as the gift box and include a few seashells to top it off.

If you do choose to personalize the gift box, get ready to make someone smile. Receiving a well thought out gift box is one of life’s most rewarding experiences. Especially when that gift box involves food.

Does all this talk of jerky have your stomach grumbling? Then it’s time to learn about the best places to eat in the world. Go ahead and check out our latest food news today!

Gluten intolerance is a common medical condition. It can vary in severity, with Celiac disease being the most severe type of gluten intolerance. Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition that affects the whole body, but mainly the digestive tract.

Gluten is a protein that is found in wheat, barley, and rye. It is found in many processed foods, sauces and meals. In it’s lesser form, gluten intolerance is known as ‘wheat belly’.

It is common in bread and baked goods. Many stores now stock options like Gluten Free Sliced White Loaf.

But what are the main wheat belly symptoms? Continue reading to find out.

1. Bloating

Bloating happens when your stomach feels full, and it is swollen. This means your stomach area is full of gas after you’ve eaten. This can make you feel very uncomfortable, and the condition can be painful if the gas becomes trapped.

Bloating is one of the most common symptoms that people suffer from when they have gluten intolerance.

2. Diarrhea, Constipation and Smelly Feces

Occasional diarrhea or constipation is normal for humans. But you should seek medical advice if it happens regularly. It is another common symptom of a gluten intolerance

Those that have Celiac disease experience inflammation in the intestine after eating any food containing gluten. This causes damage to the intestine. Depending on the severity, the damage can become irreversible.

This inflammation can cause diarrhea or constipation.

3. Stomach Pain

Due to the bloating and inflammation in the gut, pain in the stomach area is very common. 83% of people who have gluten intolerance have stomach pains after they consume gluten.

4. Headaches

People who suffer from gluten intolerance are more likely to have unexplained headaches and migraines in comparison to the general population. So if you experience regular headaches, with no apparent cause, you could be gluten intolerant.

5. Fatigued

Feeling exhausted is associated with gluten intolerance.

If your bowel is inflamed, you won’t be able to absorb nutrients properly and therefore won’t consume enough energy for your body. There are studies that highlight that 60-82% of people who have a gluten intolerance feel fatigued.

6. Skin Problems

Your gut health and skin health have an interlinked relationship. An unhealthy gut will display signs on the skin like lesions, dull skin, and acne.

Some serious skin conditions like psoriasis have shown significant improvement when gluten is removed from the diet.

7. Depression and Anxiety

Mental health and gut health are also interlinked. People who suffer from gut issues are at a greater risk of developing depression and anxiety than those with a healthy gut.

8. Unexplained Weight Loss

If you are losing weight, without trying to, then this is a cause for concern. This is a common symptom of gluten intolerance, as the gut isn’t able to absorb all the nutrients from food.

See a Doctor About Wheat Belly Symptoms Today!

If you have any of the wheat belly symptoms listed above, you could be suffering from gluten intolerance. It’s important to consult your doctor to get a diagnosis and prevent further damage to your gut.

For more health information, take a look at the other articles on our blog.

One of the best things about the casino industry is its ability to make you quite a lot of money, although in some cases, it can completely change your life forever! Just take a look at some of the industries most reputable sites like Dream Jackpot, you’ll find leaderboards and jackpot statistics. These sites pay out millions of pounds a year — a number that is going higher and higher with every passing year.

How to hit it big with casino games

To win big in these casinos you don’t always have to be an elite-level player, you simply need to be willing to lay it all on the line. Jackpots games are where you’ll find the most money exchanged — the sort of games where you are required to bet a little more to take part, but the rewards are definitely worth it if you’re lucky enough to win the big one!

 

Some believe that luck is for losers, but how else could you explain these sorts of miracles? There are people out there that have played these games for years and haven’t even come anywhere near the grand prize. Opportunity is everywhere in this industry, you just have to be in the right place at the right time.

 

Latif from Sweden won €100,422,58 earlier this year via the floral funhouse known as Flowers Christmas Edition. All he set down to win was a €19 bet, and he ended up winning that massive figure we just mentioned. According to the legend himself, Latif had only signed up for the site a few hours before his big win, and won this amount in less than 50 spins; talk about impressive!

Over 6 million on a NetEnt Slot

Last year a whopping 6.3 million euros was won by an anonymous player on the NetEnt game Hall of Gods. This lucky player won by taking advantage of the games jackpot features, able to turn a simple €10 bet into six figures almost instantly. It goes without saying, but you should always take advantage of these jackpot features whenever you can because wins like this happen.

 

Rewind again to 2017, where a Norway-based gamer won 1.12 million euros from his/her mobile phone! The information on what they were playing is a little hazy, all we know is that they were playing a Yggdrasil Gaming title and it was over at Betsson Casino, one of the most sought after sites on the web, played by hundreds, if not thousands, regularly.

 

A lot of you out there might feel slightly sceptical when a site promises big wins, but as we’ve proven here, massive victories are but only a click/spin away! We’d advise you keep your head up with these sorts of games and never lose hope, because you never know, maybe your name will one day be included in the unofficial hall of fame of big winners — just remember not to spend it all in one go if you do!

 

“Will someone ever love me for me?”

I’m pretty sure many, if not all, of us have pondered upon this question one way or another. We’ve probably questioned our self-worth a number of times too. Maybe, we even tried to enumerate all the qualities we have that make us somewhat loveable. I’m pretty sure you’ve done this yourself – especially during times when you questioned the very love you feel for yourself.

I get it. It’s hard to believe that true love exists. But the reason why we find it so hard to admit it is true is not because it is non-existent. It’s because we try to fool ourselves that it is for it is only when we think true love is not real that our heart rests easy. Check this video out: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xCUbiykxeyE.

“If it is real, then why haven’t I experienced it? If it is real, then why is it that nobody has come to make me feel that way? If it is real, then am I the only one who is unworthy of receiving it?”

When we recognize the existence of true love, we begin to feel pressured. We begin to think that the whole world is against us and that’s why it is being unfair. You might even start feeling cursed like someone out there is praying that you never find happiness.

But you see, love is not something you rush. It is kind; it is patient and just. It is not bound by a time frame and it is most certainly not made to follow rules. Love flourishes in its own time, in its own ways. And the reason why it hasn’t come knocking to your door yet is because your time has yet to come. Maybe it doesn’t think you’re mature enough to handle the real world problems that come with feeling affection towards someone. Either that or you may be knocking in the wrong door.

Small talk aside, love does not necessarily happen between man and woman. Sometimes, it can be between man and man, woman and woman, or man and transgender. As I said a while ago, love works in its own ways and time. You cannot dictate how your love story will unfold. Although you are the author and the hero, you can’t decide who the heroine becomes. Love is just that playful – and that’s what makes it so exciting.

So I ask you: Have you ever tried considering your options?

Aside from dating biological women, you may want to expand the love market by getting to know ladyboys. Who knows? The love you might be searching for may be within your reach after all. You were just reaching out to the wrong tree. It’s not too late to change things though. But remember, not everyone is born to date a ladyboy. You should at least have the following qualities to “qualify” as a ladyboy suitor:

Openness To New Experiences

If you’re the type person who’s genuinely open to experiencing new things, then maybe you can give trans dating a shot. You see, if you judge something way before actually experiencing it first-hand, you’re robbing yourself of the opportunity to learn more about the world (read more). And all too often, this will become of the things you’ll heavily regret later on in life. As the old folks like to say “Experience the world while you’re young and able” because true enough, you can never take back time that has already passed. You might end up alone and lonely because you were too afraid to take chances in life.

I say go forth and bask in everything the world has to offer – no matter how big or small, normal or peculiar. At the end of the day, we only regret the things we didn’t do. So why not take a chance? What’s there to lose anyway?

Genuine Heart

Aside from having an open mind and being “game” all the time, it also takes a genuine heart to truly love someone for who they are – transgender and all. Trans people are often plagued with their own lack of confidence. I guess you can’t blame for being too hard on themselves because it wasn’t too long ago when the rest of the world is too. They were made to believe that they were different (in a bad way) and unworthy of people’s sincerity. Now, even if the world has become more accepting, many of them still can’t get over their personal insecurities and trauma. Only a true heart with the purest motives can help them regain self-love.

If you are a man of courage, then this will not discourage you in any way. If anything, this will help you pursue love even more fervently.

Strong Conviction & Determination

Resolve is everything in the game of love. The path will not be easy; it will not be a walk in the park. However, if you truly want to meet your destiny, you have to be powerful enough to push through your wavering resolve and continue on the path you have chosen for yourself. If it’s love you truly seek, it is love you’ll find.

If you still want to date a transwoman after all that has been said and you think you really have what it takes to give them happiness, then by all means, start exploring dating apps and free tranny sites for transgenders today. The world needs more people like you – people who can love without conditions, limits, and boundaries.

Being in a relationship with a transsexual is definitely going to be a rocky journey but if what you have with your partner is real, you will enjoy every bit of that journey – no matter how hard. As long as you put your faith in each other and believe in what your relationship can do for each other, then the odds will surely sway in your favour. If not now, I’m confident that it eventually will. Just trust the process. You can do anything as long as you have love on your side.

 

Did you know visiting Cambodia is on the rise and over five million people visited in 2016? From rare beautiful animals to museums and beaches, there’s something for everyone. 

Before heading on your adventure, they’re some things you’ll want to know before visiting Cambodia. Read on to discover these things you should know about Cambodia. 

1. Getting There

The good news to visit Cambodia is you don’t need to get a visa before you get there if you’re a U.S. citizen. You can actually get one once you arrive if you have $20 plus a passport-sized photo. The currency is the riel, but locals prefer getting paid in American dollars, so you can avoid those expensive currency transfer fees. 

You’ll want to have dollar bills, as they don’t do change. 

2. Rainy Season

If you decide to go during the rainy season, it’s not too bad at all. The rainy season is not too wet, but you’ll want to avoid the monsoon season. The rainy season it’ll rain for about 20 minutes per day and that’s normally it. 

3. Buddhism Rules

Remember it’s a different culture than your own, so rules and customs will be different. Men or women, remain clothed while walking through the towns and cities, don’t go shirtless or in a bathing suit only. 

If you’re a female and entering a religious structure, temples, or palaces, or pagodas, you’ll want to cover your shoulders, wear a shirt that covers you, and a skirt or pants that go below your knees. 

4. Greeting

In Cambodia, you don’t shake hands, they do what’s called sampeah. To do the sampeah, you place both palms together in front of your chest like a lotus flower. For greeting elders or those who are higher-ranking, place your hands at mouth level. 

For parents, teachers, and grandparents it’s at nose level, kings and monks it’s at eyebrow level. When you’re praying it should touch your forehead. 

5. Keep Your Cool 

When you’re going to Cambodia, keep in mind they’re always smiling, even if they disagree with something or don’t understand. If you order at a restaurant and the server smiles but has a nervous laugh or looks confused, make sure you verify everything with them.

Anger and frustrations will get you nowhere, so make sure to keep your cool while there. 

6. Things to Know 

Some things you’ll want to keep in mind:

• Learn some words in the language Khmer before your trip to Cambodia. This will mean a lot to the locals that you learned some of Khmer.
• Bartering is normal and expected while in Cambodia so you can barter the price of almost anything as long as there’s no price tag.
• You’ll want to have an idea of where you’re going by using Google Maps or a regular map. Sometimes drivers won’t always know where they’re going.
• Don’t give money to children. A lot of them are sent out by their parents instead of going to school, so donating will just encourage it. 

7. Temple Visits

A popular tourist destination is Siem Reap and there you can see one of the famous temples, Angkor Wat. You’ll want to hire a guide and driver for the day. If you’re not sure how to find one, your hotel can find one for you. 

You’ll need a pass to see the temples. They’re normally about $20 for one day, and you’ll be able to see most of the temples in the area. If you want to explore the temples for longer, it’ll cost more. 

It’ll probably be hot and humid so make sure to carry a bag with water, sunscreen, and a change of clothes. 

Explore more here if you’re looking to see a Cambodian secret guide to where the locals go and recommend. From art experiences to an outdoor seafood restaurant, there’s something for everyone in this secret guide.

8. Go with the Flow

When you’re traveling to Cambodia, you can go with the flow and not have to worry about planning all of your activities in advance. They’re so many guides to choose from, so it’s easy to find one who will bring you where you want to go. 

9. Rise Early

Since it’s very hot and humid in Cambodia, many of the locals get up and start their day earlier before it gets too hot. You’ll want to take trips early in the morning whether it’s to markets or the temples. 

Since many of the locals get up early, many of the restaurants in the area close early at 9:00 pm. If you want to take full advantage of the cooler weather, plus all Cambodia has to offer, try to rise as early as possible. 

10. Local Sim Card 

To save on phone expenses while in Cambodia, you’ll want to buy a local sim card for your phone. You can find sim cards being sold outside airports for only $3 and that will last about a week. It’ll also help you with using Google Maps to find your way around the area. 

Visiting Cambodia

In this article, you learned all about visiting Cambodia and what to expect. Before you know it you’ll be on your dream trip seeing everything from temples to local markets.

You can stick to where the tourists go or spice things up and also see where the locals go as well. Keep these tips in mind and make sure to read up about Cambodia before you go. 

Would you like to learn more about everything from skiing to what to do after a car accident to traveling the world? Check out our other articles. 

 

 

Jewellery is an essential part of accessories and fashion trends. Hence, jewellery trends and designs are always evolving. Some jewellery pieces like bangles, necklaces, Matha Patti, mundane and radius etc are always in fashion since ages. These classic pieces have attained an eternal and cult status, while some jewellers are always evolving.

Old designs are always in demand and people love their heirloom jewellery. But recently jewellery is becoming more personalised and customized. These type of jewellery give a personal touch to everything and make you stand out in the crowd.

From traditional gold, diamonds or silvers to semi-precious stones and costume jewellery- there are certain designs that are in the headlines and will be there for some time. Jewellery has also changed and revamped their collections with each trend. Whp jewellers design are trendy and are on high demand. Here are the latest trends in jewellery

• Pearls are coming back

Pearls were not in the limelight for a few years. But this year, the royal pearls are coming back with a bang. Pearl jewellery are evergreen and do not look old fashioned. Pearls add a royal touch in your appearance. The baroque pearls and pearls with being stoned are rocking the scenes.

• Old is evergreen

There is something about the old hair look pieces. Old and traditional jewellery is coming into front page again after a short break. The heavy pieces of traditional jewellery like nose pin, necklaces, bajubandhs, bangles are now trendy. Wedding jewellery has become a lot of traditional this year. Eminent jewellers like wanna hari pethe and other jewellers have started making jewellery pieces like the traditional ones. Lighter jewellery with traditional phulkari and meenakari are also in high demand during the wedding season.

• Say yes to the brooches

Brooches are also gaining popularity. This particular piece of jewellery was forgotten for a long time. Brook he made with silver, gold and gemstones with quirky designs are now rocking the fashion scene. The designs have become more trendy and now a brooch or pin can be paired with a traditional attire or office wear or western.

• Long shoulder dusting earrings

The long earrings are here to stay. Shoulder brushing earrings made with gemstones, pearls, diamonds and small plates of gold or silver are now a prized possession for fashionistas. Chandelier earrings have also regained their popular. If you are a minimalist then you may choose long chain earrings with one or two gemstones or pearls or diamonds at the end. These shoulder sisters look so elegant and stylish. Women of all face types can rock a pair of long earrings with ease.

• Minimum is maximum

Yes, the minimalist trend is also there. Small studs with delicate designs, solitaire, single pearl or single stone studs are in demand. This jewelleries are simple, not elegant and can be worn as daily wear or office wear easily.

• Stand-alone statements

Stand-alone statement jewellery is also becoming popular. Shoulder Sisters, bold neckpieces and bangles or jhumkas that can be worn as statement jewellery are now extremely on demand.

• Office wear is great

More women are now working and they need jewellery that can complement their office attire. Delicate chains, simple bracelets, stud earrings are minimal but can give a glamorous touch in any attire. These jewellery are also great as daily wear. Famous jewellers now have dedicated jewellery line for working women.

What is clear that jewellery trends are evolving and constantly changing. Statement pieces and light jewellery are now very popular.

To read more on topics like this, check out the blog category.

Have you found yourself asking your friends and coworkers how to balance work and life? It’s a common complaint that career-driven individuals face. Finding the time to cater to their families while still succeeding and pursuing bigger things at work.

But, achieving work life balance is easier said than done for many. That’s because we all want only the best for our entire lives, work and home activities included. 

So, what is the answer to this unending question? 

Unfortunately, there is no one answer. The keys lie somewhere between your will to succeed and your power to step back and take a break from time to time. Keep reading for a few tricks to achieve this success. 

The Keys to Achieving Work Life Balance

The keys to success with work life balance are not hard to find if you at least try to look. Take some hints from your years in college or trade school when you balanced studies, work, and parties. Sans the parties and you’ve already got a grip on this! 

Time Management

It should seem evident and self-explanatory but time management must be noted because too many people simply don’t pay attention to this simple rule of thumb. Make sure to set aside time for work and personal life by designating hours of the day to those specific areas of your life. 

Communication

Being able to tell your boss that you’ve had too much is important. You can’t throw a fit and cry about not wanting to stay late, but you can clearly communicate that you have other priorities. Communicating your workload to your boss ahead of time could even help to eliminate this headache in the first place. 

Exercise

Believe it or not, getting your move on can and will improve your work life balance by providing you more energy and confidence in your day to day tasks. Set aside at least a few hours per week to take a walk or hit the gym. 

Organization

In order to achieve work life balance, you must be organized. Take a tip from ThePayStubs blog about freelance contractors. They will tell you that organization is the staple of their income.

Keep a calendar, take notes, whatever you do, write things down. It will not only help you remember things but also be more prepared for those things. 

How to Maintain Work Life Balance

Achieving work life balance can be one of the most difficult tasks you set forth for yourself but it’s so important to continue to strive for it at every turn. Without it, not only will you and your family suffer, but your work will also suffer which could result in less than pleasant circumstances. 

Make sure you dedicate time to yourself no matter how much or how hard you work. Whether you’re a doctor or a lawyer or customer service representative, the stress will impact you negatively!

We hope you found this post helpful and informative. Don’t forget to check back for more tips about what to do when you’re finally not working. 

Landlords have a responsibility to ensure their properties are safe and livable for their tenants. And without routine maintenance, many problems can arise. One of the most dangerous and common problems in rental properties is mold growth. Both the tenants and the landlord need to ensure that the property is kept clean and mold-free.

The dangers of mold

Several different types of mold exist. Some may cause health problems while others won’t. For the molds that do cause health problems, like black mold, common side effects can include coughing, throat irritation, difficulty breathing, skin and eye irritation, lung infections, upper respiratory infections, and other serious health conditions. These symptoms are more commonly seen in those who already have health concerns, such as asthma. Even if health problems aren’t caused, mold still significantly reduces the air quality inside a home. If any type of mold is found, it needs to be removed immediately.

Important steps for landlords to take

Tenants can do many things to prevent mold growth and keep the house in good shape. Cleaning water spills, using exhaust fans, and reporting leaks are all important steps tenants should take to prevent mold growth. Landlords should consider using a tenant screening software to ensure they choose tenants with good references and those who are most likely to take care of the property.

But landlords also have a big role to play in preventing mold growth. One of the best places to start is with ventilation. A rental home should have plenty of ventilation, including exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathrooms. Additionally, the vents for the clothes dryer should push the hot air outside of the house. If a house doesn’t have enough ventilation, warm air can get trapped inside and lead to mold growth.

Another common problem that can result in mold is humidity. The humidity levels in a house should be as low as possible. Mold thrives in damp and humid areas, so landlords should invest in a dehumidifier for the house. The dehumidifier can be placed in the basement, which is usually the dampest area of a house. It’s important for someone, whether it’s the landlord or a tenant, to regularly check the dehumidifer and empty it as needed.

The amount of insulation in a home can also play a role in mold growth. If there isn’t enough insulation, condensation can form on cold surfaces. And if condensation isn’t wiped away, the damp surface can become a breeding ground for mold. Ensuring there is enough insulation around pipes, roofs, floors, and windows can help prevent condensation and, therefore, mold.

If a flood occurs in a home, it’s crucial to make sure the water is cleared out as quickly as possible. And after that, any surfaces that were affected by the flood need to be dried and cleaned. This typically means flooring and walls — depending on the amount of water and how long it was left sitting, surfaces may need to be replaced. This is especially true for surfaces like carpet, which can hold moisture longer. Landlords will need to replace flooring or walls as needed after a flood occurs.

Landlords should always look for warning signs of mold and keep communication about mold concerns open with their tenants. In between tenants, landlords should do a thorough inspection of the property to look for mold — and take care of it if they find any. Fixing leaks, doing repairs after floods, and replacing insulation as needed are all important steps that landlords should take to prevent mold growth in their rental properties.

 

Did you know that there are over 6 million car accidents each year?

There’s plenty of information available on what to do at the scene of a car accident, but not as many people know what to do in the weeks following an accident. It’s important that you continue to take care of yourself after the event so you can heal and protect your rights.

Do you want to know what to do after a car accident injury? Keep reading for 5 steps you should follow.

1. Go to a Doctor If You’re Injured from a Car Accident

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, it’s crucial that you go to an accident doctor who knows how to treat your unique injuries.

Whiplash, broken bones, extensive bruising, and herniated discs are just a few of the most common types of car accident injuries people get. In order to restore your body to maximize health and mobility, you should never delay scheduling your doctor’s appointment.

2. What to Do After a Car Accident Injury: Keep Accurate Records 

We all know the importance of collecting information from the other driver at the scene of the accident, but you also need to keep accurate records of relevant details after the accident.

If you have to see a doctor, a mechanic, or any other professional because of the car accident, the other driver may be liable to pay those expenses. Keeping track of all of your spending will help you receive proper compensation in the future.

3. File an Insurance Claim

It’s smart to contact your insurance company as soon as possible after a car accident. All of the information they file can come in handy if you pursue legal action against the other driver. If your car insurance covers medical expenses, you also have to keep your provider updated on your doctor’s appointments and treatments.

4. Speak with a Lawyer to Get Compensation for Your Auto Accident Injury

Insurance exists to give people protection against accidents, but many providers will fight when the time comes to give you that coverage.

If you’re facing resistance from your insurance company or the other driver’s insurance company, you should look into getting a car accident lawyer. Accidents can take a toll on your car and body, so you should never be forced to pay for those expenses if you weren’t at fault.

5. Consider Speaking with a Therapist

Taking care of your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Many people who suffer from car accident injuries also suffer from mental health issues like anxiety, PTSD, and depression.

If you notice that your mental health is suffering in any way after your car accident, don’t hesitate to speak with a therapist about the event.

Want More Helpful Tips?

Now that you know what to do after a car accident injury, you can take the steps you need to recover.

If you want to know more ways to stay happy and healthy, we have it all. Check out our blog for more helpful lifestyle tips.