5 Benefits of Bringing a Pet into Your Home

 

Belle is my son Joel's Australian Shepherd and she's one year old!
This is us on a recent camping trip.

Pets of any kind bring happiness. They make excellent companions, can be great for lonely people, or be a wonderful way to teach kids about responsibility. The advantages of owning a pet stretch much further than even that; there are some real, tangible reasons to consider bringing one into your home.

 

#1 They can make you fitter

 

Pets that need interaction with help you get fit. This applies especially to taking a dog for a walk. Not everybody enjoys taking exercise, and fewer still want to go for a long walk or run simply for the sake of it. The beauty of owning a dog is that you have no choice. You’ll need to walk the animal at least once a day, and more active dogs like huskies can even be taken on long runs or bicycle rides. Forming a routine around exercise is great for your health, and having a reason to get up and get out ensures that you never miss a day.

 

#2 Great for mental health

 

More broadly, all pets have a beneficial effect on mental health. Even something as small as a hamster can alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness. The responsibility of owning a pet can also give somebody a feeling of purpose. Companionship is a big motivator for pet owners. Having an animal companion has been shown to relieve the symptoms of anxiety and depression and generally enhance feelings of positivity. Stroking a pet has even been shown to help people sleep better!

 

#3 Help you get organized

 

Caring for a pet is rewarding, but it isn’t always easy. There are vet bills, food supplies, and you’ll even need to replace toys regularly. Tools like Exceptional Pets make this process easier by putting all the required services (vets, food suppliers, etc.) in one place and allowing you to search according to criteria, but you’ll still need to be organized. Scheduling checks, establishing a grooming routine, and ensuring a regular supply of the right kind of food helps you to organize other areas of your life, too.

 

#4 They teach kids responsibility

 

Following on from the previous point, there aren’t many kids who don’t want to own a pet. They think they can handle the responsibility, promise to walk the dog or feed the cat, but words don’t always translate easily into actions. Bringing a pet into the home and teaching your kids how to care for it can really help them mature, though. It’s important to supervise them and offer guidance, but giving a child responsibility early in their life will help them to grow into a more considerate, capable adult.

 

#5 More socialization options

 

Pets give you access to pet owner clubs, where you’re likely to meet new people and make friends. Dogs might go to dog parks, but other animals, including cats and even birds, all have local clubs dedicated to them. Bonding with other pet owners is a fantastic way to make new friends (you all have a shared interest, after all) and can lead to long-term relationships.

#WorldsofFun — the Perfect Family/Fun Day! Find Your Amazing!

So I initially titled this post "Perfect Summer Day" ... but we've been to WinterFest and it was a Perfect Winter Evening. How about The Haunt? That would be a Perfect Autumn Evening! Carnivale? The Perfect Summer Night! We are so fortunate to have Worlds of Fun here in Kansas City, and it's no wonder people come from all over the country in all seasons and in all types of weather to enjoy it!

All photographs you see in this post that are of my family on a ride were taken while others were still loading onto the rides. We did NOT take any photos while a ride was being operated. You are not allowed to do this, and we did not do it!

*I need to start by sharing how great the Worlds of Fun/Oceans of Fun park app is. It stored all of our tickets and passes, including meal and drink passes. It showed wait times of rides and had a map of the park. It also made it quick and easy to get into the park.

3 Benefits of Using Landscaping Services for Your Home This Summer

 

Summer is the best time to work on home improvement projects. People like to do landscaping projects in summer so that they can enjoy a great time outdoors. It is important to work with a professional and reliable landscaping company because it can provide lots of benefits and convenience for homeowners. We are happy to share 3 benefits for homeowners to consider.

Do I Need Any Qualification to Buy a Yacht?

Image by strikers from Pixabay 

Owning a boat has many advantages to the owner and their family. When you go boating, you can reduce a lot of stress. You can also engage in many exercise activities like water skiing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. You may also learn various new skills that will keep your mind active and sharp as you navigate, and you can deepen your family relationship when you take your entire family for an adventure in the water.

Suppose you want to acquire a boat for the first time at the great lakes yacht sales and you are wondering if you will need any qualification to buy a yacht. Here are the explanations to help you in the process of purchasing a new yacht

Can you buy a boat without qualification?

When you want to buy a new boat, you do not have to have a boating qualification so that you can buy the type of boat you have been dreaming of owning or start using it. However, while there is no legal requirement to hold a boating qualification to buy your dream choice, it is essential to know that a vital boating qualification can be adventitious to have. In some instances, you may be prevented to use your boat when you do not have a qualification. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you acquire one.

What you need a boat qualification for

In simple terms, if you buy a boat, and you plan to use it to visit other areas, it would be best to consider a boat qualification. As a first-time vessel owner when you do not have any qualification, it may become difficult to moor your boat in other parts except at your land or gain insurance. For example, suppose you would want to become a member of a vessel or yacht club where you can moor your boat, or when you are out and about sailing in your boat, and you plan to visit a particular marina and stay there, you are likely required to have both a boating qualification and boat insurance for liability purposes.

River Market KCMO Date: Pigwich, Planter's, Lock up Your Love, Betty Rae's, Opera House, a Park

So when you've been with someone almost 26 years (we met in July of 1995, and here's our love story) and you have 5 kids together, it's easy to get into a routine of work, kids, busy, house projects, dishes, cooking, laundry, driving, errands, homeschooling, dentist, eye doctor, orthodontist, social stuff at home and other places, taxes, fishing, etc.

Maybe you try to carve out a day, put it on the calendar, but then something else comes up and you have to move the date to another time or maybe it just falls off the radar altogether. Also, with 5 kids coming and going, a couple driving, some with other plans, it becomes a homework assignment in rocket science to make it all work out. Not to mention you have to make sure there is plenty of food at home, and then you have to run down the ground rules again.

I'm happy to report that, although my husband and I didn't date much when the kids were younger (simply because we enjoyed being with them so dang much and also we had like 6 years together before we ever had kids), we are dating more now, when we can. Recently we went to Ronnie's Restaurant in Lenexa and it was fantastic!

I put this date on the calendar several weeks ago. It was originally supposed to be May 8, but I was consulted and agreed that a fishing trip with Mr. McLoughlin and Twin and 6 of the kids (4 of ours and 2 of Twin's) would be fine as long as we could move the date to May 1. 

Look, I know the MALE is supposed to plan the date and all that. I get where you're coming from, and we teach our boys that THEY call the girls and not the other way around. And we teach our girls that they should expect to have doors opened for them, etc. They are very blessed to have many friends whose parents have similar values. 

But sometimes you want to plan something nice for someone, you know? I chose a restaurant I knew he would like, a shopping experience I thought he would enjoy, and some exercise I knew he was craving. Then I got one more surprise idea. Here's our day in pictures! I hope it gives you some inspiration!

Last Friday Night (parody about a Scout campout) ...

Lil Scout Joel with his baby brother Sam. Scroll to the bottom to see the outcome.

*This post was originally uploaded October 1, 2011.

Set to the tune of the song I HATE by Katy Perry (I love the melody but hate the words!). It's about a little campout we had once when my oldest was just 10 years old. 

There's rip in my man's jeans

Must've eaten too much beans

Kids are all over the place

Runnin’ up and down the berm

I smell like a coffeebar

Sam is passed out on my lap

S’mores are on the barbeque

Benefits of Using a Lawn Care Service to Help Care for Your Yard

Image by Ulrike Mai from Pixabay 

You spend a lot of time caring for your home and landscaping. And as you know it takes a lot of time out of your day to keep things looking great. But there are times when you get busy, and it will start to show around the home. But your lawn does not have to suffer just because you get busy. If you are considering hiring a Lakewood Lawn service to help care for the yard, then here are some benefits that you will enjoy from making the choice.

A healthy and beautiful-looking yard takes a lot of time and ends up being an attraction to your neighbors. By hiring the right team of professionals, you can rest knowing that you are in good hands.

3 Benefits of Adding Pool Enclosures

Did your new home come with a pool or did you just get a pool installed? Have you considered enclosing it? There are many benefits of Florida pool enclosures. Here are three of the top ones you should know. 

1. Security (A Bigger Concern Than You May Realize)

When it comes to your pool, you want to keep a variety of things out, including people, bugs, dirt, leaves, and more. Don’t let your hard maintenance work go to waste! When you enclose your pool area, you are preventing any unwanted visitors from taking a dip while keeping your pool clean. The more secure your pool, the more time you have to enjoy it! 

2. Protection From the Sun

While you may enjoy sunbathing at your pool, it is important to remember that the sun can damage your skin. When you have a pool enclosure, it can help block the rays from directly affecting your skin. Keep in mind that you should always wear sunscreen whenever you are in the pool. A pool enclosure can’t stop all the sun’s UV rays, but it can act as a buffer. 

3. More Time to Swim

Although the weather may stay warm for most of the year in certain climates, there can be some chilly days (who wants to swim when it’s cold or rainy?).  When you have an enclosed pool, you can enjoy swimming whenever you want! Pool enclosures (in combination with a heater) help keep your pool warm while blocking the rain from coming in. 

Final Thoughts

Pool enclosures offer many benefits for homeowners. If you are ready to keep your pool secure, your skin protected, and have more time to swim, now is the perfect opportunity to enclose your pool! 

6 Ways To Treat Yourself After A Long Week

 

Pexels

Working and having a family is a big job and responsibility to undertake. You do a lot for others during the week and have many tasks you need to complete and take care of professionally speaking. It may feel overwhelming at times, and you might look forward to having some free time over the weekend for yourself.

Get your spouse to help out with the kids and commit to following through with some or all of the below ideas after a long week. You’ll be glad you did and can return to working and taking care of your kids feeling re-energized after you’ve had some time to yourself.

Storage Considerations for Boat Owners

 

Photo by freestocks.org from Pexels

If you own a boat, you must consider the matter of storing your craft. Some of your options depend on the size and type of vessel you own. These are some important considerations about storage for boat owners to ponder.

Haulage Services

Some companies offer professional boat hauling. However, this service is expensive and is used mostly for larger boats. If you have a small craft, a reliable trailer service Pennsylvania will help you find a quality trailer to move your vessel yourself. Be sure to check zoning for the city or town where you live concerning boat storage at home.

Indoor Storage

Many owners like to store their boats in large buildings during the cold months. This option has some important advantages.

• Protected from vandals
• Safe from winter weather
• Easier spring cleanup

These advantages do, however, come with a hefty price tag. You also want to make sure indoor storage facilities have strict security measures in place, including restrictions on indoor maintenance, which could lead to fires. This important safety precaution is the other main disadvantage to indoor storage—limited access to your vessel.

Outdoor Storage

This storage method is popular for its affordability. You also have easy access to your boat. However, your boat will get dirty, even when covered. Still, this option is favored by many who own watercraft. If you have your own pier at home with a boat lift, you can keep your boat on it all winter.

In-Water Storage

You may be able to store your boat in the water, depending on where you live. Some marinas have deicing services that help prevent damage during winters. However, in very cold climates with moving ice, this storage method is not recommended.

Safe Wintering

Finding the best way to store your boat in your circumstances and location is an important aspect of boat ownership. With good storage, your boat will stay relatively clean and safe during winter months or times of disuse. This way, you and your vessel will be ready to sail toward the horizon, prepared for adventure.  

4 Green Habits That Really Do Make a Difference

 

Pixabay

With everything going on in the world right now, you’d be forgiven for forgetting about the other big global threat looming over us. Climate change has been an issue for several decades and is showing no signs of going away. Big changes are needed if our planet is to reverse the effects of global warming and make the earth habitable for future generations.

As consumers, we are regularly given opportunities to do our bit for the environment. We can recycle our used goods, reuse our shopping bags, and buy biodegradable laundry tablets. These are undoubtedly meaningful actions to take, and if everyone were to do the same, it would certainly make a huge difference. But individually, these small steps are barely a drop in the ocean of what is needed to change the planet. And there is a risk that people will carry out these small steps and feel as though they are doing their bit for the environment, when their actions really amount to very little. More is needed.

If we are to arm ourselves against the assault of climate change, it is necessary to take larger actions that have greater consequences. Although it is the governments of the world who can incite real change, there are some habits you can adopt at home, which will have a larger impact on a greater scale.

Cutting out meat

The meat industry is one of the biggest polluters on the entire planet, yet it shows no sign of slowing down. It uses up huge swathes of land, releases vast quantities of methane from animals into the atmosphere, and burns excessive fossil fuels in the production and distribution processes. If everyone were to switch to a plant-based diet, the world’s food-based emissions would drop by 70%. There are now so many delicious alternatives to meat and dairy out there that going vegan is easier than ever.

Stop flying

The other big polluter is the aviation industry. Plane travel might be convenient, but it does a lot more harm than good. So next time you take an international holiday, why don’t you travel by train, coach or boat instead? It’s perfectly possible to see the world without flying, and communication technology is making international business travel more or less redundant.

Go zero waste

As consumers, we produce an inordinate amount of waste in our everyday lives—packaging, uneaten food, discarded toys, and clothing, you name it. Not only is this incredibly wasteful, but it has a huge environmental impact. Plastic ends up in the ocean, and the increasingly full landfills generate vast amounts of methane. By taking steps to eradicate household waste, you can dramatically reduce your own carbon footprint. Find innovative ways to make your food last longer, recycle or donate your used and broken items, and buy food without plastic packaging whenever possible. Donate your wood waste to companies like Edrich Lumber, Inc. and compost organic waste rather than sticking it in the trash.

Use your voice

There’s only so much one person can do. The most effective way you can personally help the planet is by spreading the word. Tell others about your green habits, talk about environmental issues on social media, sign petitions, and get involved in local politics. Change starts with all of us.

Like The Idea Of Living On A Boat? Read This!

It’s no secret that most people prefer to live on land in a house or apartment. A few people might even live in an RV as they relish the idea of taking their home on wheels to different parts of the country.

Of course, some folks want to take that to another level and live on a boat. You might not realize it, but there are plenty of people that call a boat their home! If you like the sound of that, here’s what you need to know about living your life on the water:

Image Source

Choosing the right houseboat

The houseboat experience starts by choosing the right one to meet your needs best. You need to think carefully about the size you need and where you’re likely to navigate your houseboat in the future.

For example, some houseboats might be too wide to navigate down narrow bodies of water. And small houseboats might not meet your needs if you’re planning to live in one with your family.

Keeping oily waste out of the water

One thing you’ll learn about owning and operating a houseboat - or any boat - is how they can sometimes leak oil. As you know, large boats like houseboats have engines in them (typically diesel engines).

And if you’re a car owner, you’ll know that engines sometimes leak oil due to damage or wear and tear. The last thing you want to happen is for leaking oil to end up making its way into the water beneath you for obvious reasons.

The good news is you can prevent that from happening in two ways:

• The first is with regular engine maintenance and ensuring you replace any damaged seals or gaskets. You may wish to have a mechanic maintain your engine if you’re not mechanically minded.

• The other way is by having an oil-water separator fitted. Visit www.owstech.com to see some examples of how they work and websites like Vetus for marine-grade products.

Fees and charges

You’ll need to pay some fees and charges for your houseboat as you would for a regular house on land. For instance, you may need to pay marina fees when you moor your houseboat by private land.

And depending on where you are in the world, you may also need to pay fees for keeping your houseboat in certain areas. It’s worth researching those costs before you buy your houseboat so you can factor in those expenses.

Power and water

Last but not least, you’ll need to consider how to get electricity and clean water for your houseboat. Marinas generally have electrical hookups for power, but there’s nothing stopping you from generating your own power.

Take a look at www.all-about-houseboats.com for some information on solar power and houseboats. As for clean water, again some marinas provide hose connections to supply water to your boat.

Conclusion

Moving into a houseboat is an exciting prospect for people from all walks of life! The beauty of such an abode is you can literally ‘move home’ anywhere in the world! Just be sure to conduct plenty of prior research before you buy a houseboat.

Good luck!

Is Your Home Fit For Your Brood?

 When we are young and childless, we dream of having a show home-style property, complete with sleek lines, minimalist décor, ultra modern appliances, and living spaces that are large, clean, and tidy. Welcome the patter of some tiny feet, fast forward a few years, and your home is more often looking like a chaotic environment rather than an interior of peace and tranquility. It can be challenging to find a balance between crafting a home that you adore and a home that is conducive to family living. Take a look at how you can make your humble abode a more pleasing environment for you and your offspring.

Pixabay - CC0 License

Kitchen

The kitchen will be the hub of your home. It is here that you rustle up the family feasts, enjoy watching the kids do some drawing on the dining table, and chat with pals over coffee. It is a room that has more than just one function. Rather than creating a chaotic and busy kitchen, you need to consider how you can keep it family-friendly without the mess. This is where storage solutions come in handy. If you have the space, check out the larger and deeper kitchen cabinets that you can purchase. These don’t have to be solely for pots and pans. Instead, utilize these for your kids’ coloring books, toys, and snacks.

By zoning off your room, you can have a child-specific area where your little darlings can play and relax. Consider placing an ottoman footstool in the corner of the room alongside a toy box. By keeping your children’s ‘stuff’ out of sight, your room will immediately look less cluttered and busy, giving it a more sophisticated look.

Pixabay - CC0 License

Playroom

If you don’t have a playroom, have you ever considered making space for one? This may mean putting your hands into your pocket and building an extension. Adding square footage to your humble abode will add value and creating a space dedicated to your little ones’ toys and paraphernalia will prevent these items from clogging up the rest of your home. This playroom could look best backing onto your rear garden. This can bring the outdoors in, and make the garden an extra play area for your little darlings. 

Pixabay - CC0 License

The Garden

Your garden has the power to be an incredible educational and play setting for your children. While you might still want the al fresco dining area and the more adult English country garden setting, you can still create some child-friendly zones. Have a patch of lawn where your kids can kick a ball around, run, and enjoy playing some active games. Have a vegetable plot and enjoy sowing seeds and creating a living edible kitchen. You can help your children learn about where their food comes from and get them engaged with the great outdoors rather than having to try and tear them away from video games and TV screens. 

Crafting the perfect home for kids and adults alike can be a challenge. However, follow this guide, and your home will be fit for your entire household.

How to Create a Backyard Movie Theater

 

Illustration 192106801 © Mstjahanara903 - Dreamstime.com

Family movie night is a tradition, but maybe you want to mix it up a little bit. When the weather is warm, you can have movie night under the stars. It doesn't take a lot of effort to make some memorable movie watching moments.  

Find a Spot

All you need is a place for a projector, a screen and some seating. You need to have enough distance between the projector and the screen. This will depend on the size of your screen. Be sure the paths inside and to the snack table don't cross in front of the projector. You should also think about cord control. You will likely to have run at least one cord to the equipment. You don't want anyone tripping, so plan ahead. 

Make it Cozy

Bring out blankets and pillows. Set up an area with snacks and beverages. Don't forget the popcorn. You can sit on the grass or your outdoor chairs. If you want the ultimate experience, get outdoor daybeds. Complete the ambiance with some lanterns or hang lights in the trees. 

Set Up the Equipment

You don't need state-of-the-art equipment to enjoy the experience. Most indoor home movie projectors can also be used outside. If you don't have one, there are several inexpensive options. You will need some type of screen. You can purchase one or use a bedsheet. You could project directly onto the side of the house or fence. If you do that, you need to be okay with seeing the siding or slats in the fence as part of the movie. You can hook a streaming device or DVD player to the projector. The projector will have a speaker, but you can certainly add a higher quality one if you prefer. 

That's all there is to it. You'll be the envy of friends and neighbors. Be ready to host a lot of events. 

Protecting Your Backyard Against the Winter Weather

 

Pexels. CCO Licensed.

Don’t let the winter weather destroy your garden. Below are just a few ways to protect your outdoor space from the rain, wind and snow.

Fix up your fencing

If your fencing is damaged, now might be the time to get it fixed. Flimsy old fencing isn’t likely to last the winter – replace this with new high quality fencing. If you opt for wooden fencing, make sure that it is sealed to protect it from the elements. Metal fencing and plastic fencing may be more durable.  

Lock all tools and equipment away

Tools and equipment ranging from barbecues to shovels shouldn’t be left outdoors once the temperatures start getting cool. The wind, rain and frost could damage them – they are much better off locked away in a shed where the elements cannot get to them.

3 Outdoor Event Essentials

 

Most people love getting together with their family and friends to celebrate different occasions or simply because the weather is nice and they want to have a gathering. Like all events, outdoor parties take preparation and planning to go smoothly.

1. Music

Music can serve many purposes at a gathering. It can be useful as background noise while people eat and socialize and does not have to be turned up too loud at any point. At more lively events, it can become more prominent as people are encouraged to dance or sing karaoke. Having a live band play can be fun too, so check out stage rental prices Nashville TN to get a quote.

2. Food

One of the most important things to do when planning an event is to consider the food. Guests should be asked if they have any dietary needs and accommodated if possible. The menu can match the theme of the event to make it feel more cohesive. There are many great ideas for food that can match any type of event, from a circus theme to an underwater motif. The spread can be as fancy or as simple as desired; the most important thing to remember is that there should be enough for everyone in attendance.

3. Seating

Even if people will be milling around and interacting or dancing for much of the time, there should still be adequate seating should the majority of people decide to sit down at the same time. Chairs can also serve as a place for guests to place jackets, hats or other items without having to take up space on tables or be carried the whole time.

Spending time with family members and friends can be a great way to relax after a long day. Hosting an outdoor event may take some work, but it can be a rewarding experience for everyone involved.

Make Memories with Your Kids!!!!

 It is a Friday in September. 

Homeschooling during coronavirus is going better than most years and we have a rhythm going and I don't want to interrupt it. Just kidding. We are like 2 weeks in and already a little bit "behind."

It is kinda chilly. Maybe rain is coming.

It isn't my husband's Friday off, so he can't come with us, but it had to be THIS DAY ONLY (you know when your schedule is so full as a parent and there is NO OTHER DAY to do something?).

We already had the budget done and I forgot to put this as a line item (when we go to this place like once a year, we have to eat at a heavenly spot called Burrito King). What if we could not live without something from The General Store or The Nature Center Shop?

I am swamped with proofreading projects.

The Rona is rampant on the college campus, where we are heading to see Julia, who lived with us for five months this year.

My wonderful and talented husband had the big van torn up, working on the timing system, so the 6 of us will cram into the truck and drive an hour each way.

My daughter has a sleepover later today to be dropped off at, so also crammed in the truck with 6 decent-sized people would be a pillow, blanket and suitcase. Oh, and the plans changed as far as drop-off time turning into LATER, so I had to pivot.

It's the time of the Rona, and unexpected things happen, which sometimes make me nervous, but mostly make me surly. I don't like to be surly. For instance, we are going to avoid the Natural History Museum this time because of all the mask stuff (the potential for workers and volunteers to bark at us for having them below our nose or whatever). I'm not getting into a debate about masks with anyone, but just know that I do not want to kill anyone with my germy breath, but we are not pro-mask for various reasons that I will not go into here (although, hey, I do have a pretty good platform for a blog post on that someday). That is all.

I've done this a lot over the years, where I waffled on going somewhere, packing up all the diapers, snacks, juice pouches and sippie cups, keep a trash bag in the car at all times, stop by the side of the highway to nurse a baby or toddler. There were other things we needed to be doing, other things we wanted to be doing, but we did this thing anyway.

You know what? My kids are now 10, 12, 15, 17, and 19, and the things they talk about fondly are some of those very things I had to force myself out of the house to do.

Loading up a bunch of bikes and snacks and sunscreen and waters back at the end of March for eight people and taking two vehicles to drive 30-plus minutes to ride one of the most beautiful trails in the city was a pain. Especially since the entire world had our same idea because there was nowhere else to go but OUTSIDE back in the spring of 2020 so even finding parking at the parks was difficult. But we did it ... twice. And the kids still talk about it fondly. We will probably do it again next year.

So there are a bunch of reasons why I wanted to just cancel today. Just forget it. Let's try another day (although we'd been doing that for a year and it never worked out).

Be we are going anyway. Because there is never a PERFECT DAY. There is today. So just jump. Just go.

Come back for an update on our day!

Fun Ways to Spend Your Summer Vacation

 

Callie at the new shave ice place in town

While it is nice to have a break during the summer months, it can be monotonous to stay busy and active. If you are wondering how you can make for a fun summer bucket list, you have come to the right place. Here are a few ideas that can bring you the summer of your dreams.

Travel When You Can

You don't have to spend a fortune to have a summer full of travel by booking ahead earlier in the year. This way, you can find deals when they are hot. It may be more time consuming to be checking flights and travel websites so frequently, but it will be worth your while when it is time to enjoy your trips.

Stay Active

Not only is it good for your health to stay active, but it can also be a fun time if you are creative. Winning a few golf tournament trophies (and maybe some prize money, too) or joining a softball league is a great way to get some steps in and enjoy some time with friends and family. If none of these things sound appealing, you may be surprised by how going for a daily walk can improve your mood.

Appreciate the Little Things

Taking the time to appreciate the little things like a rainbow after a storm or a nice dinner with loved ones is a fabulous way to make the best out of the warmer months. Sometimes, all you need is a weekend snuggled on the couch, watching your favorite show to feel re-energized and ready to tackle anything.

There is no one size fit all instruction manual to the perfect summer, but you can always try out a few different things to see if anything sticks. Above all else, taking the time to relish in the warm weather will mean a much more productive school year.

4 Types of Gun Holsters

 

Photo 92905664 © Vadym Sarakhan - Dreamstime.com

Part of properly carrying a gun either open or concealed is figuring out how to carry it safely and comfortably. Gun holsters are designed to make carrying a firearm more comfortable and convenient for long periods of time. A holster should ideally allow the wearer to move freely during their daily activities while also being able to access their weapon quickly and easily if needed.

1. Hip

Hip holsters are popular because many people find them easy to wear and believe that they provide good access in the event of an emergency. They are usually easy to take on and off and companies like DeSantis holsters produce a variety of designs. Some are designed to sit higher or lower than others, which can affect how easy it is to conceal the gun during use.

2. Shoulder

A shoulder holster has one or more straps that fit on the shoulders and suspend the gun near the ribs. There are different types of shoulder holsters that are made from different materials and can carry the gun either in a horizontal or vertical position. Make sure that the type of holster will work with the type of gun being carried, as that can affect the comfort level. Wearing loose-fitting clothes or layering clothing over the holster is usually a good idea, as the fabric can break up the outline of the gun to aid concealment. Padding the area between the gun and the body can also help prevent chafing.

3. Pocket

While it may seem that carrying a gun around in a pocket does not require the use of a holster, it is still important to wear one. A good holster will protect the trigger to prevent the gun from discharging accidentally. A holster will also be designed to obscure the shape of the firearm so that it is not easily detectable by others.

4. Ankle

Ankle holsters are great for carrying a concealed firearm because they are usually tucked underneath a pair of pants. Because of the size and location, ankle holsters are mostly used for smaller pistols.

Be aware when selecting a gun holster that everyone’s body is different. What works well for one person may not always work for others. Personal style also plays a role, as someone who prefers to wear tight clothing and also wishes to carry a concealed weapon may need to make some adjustments to their carry style, and perhaps also alter what they wear while carrying a gun. Try to test out holsters in person to find one that is the right fit before making a purchase.

4 Ways CBD Can Help Your Dog

 

Photo 88410727 © Alexey Maximenko - Dreamstime.com

Dog's are a man's best friend. They're always there and show you they care with the simplest smooches, constant cuddles and loving looks. Shouldn't you show them you care and find ways to ensure they're living their best lives, too? CBD is an up-and-coming therapeutic and medicinal treatment humans are finding ways to use, but trying CBD for pets may also have lasting benefits for your furry friend. 

1. Minimizes Anxiety

If your dog gets nervous during thunderstorms, fireworks or simply when you have to leave them, buying CBD-infused food or oils for your dog may be just what they need to calm down. Studies show CBD calms PTSD and panic disorders in humans, so it may be able to lessen some of your pet's built up stress. 

2. Lessens Risk of Cancer

Saying goodbye to pets when they pass away is hard enough, but having a dog get diagnosed with cancer is that much worse. CBD is shown to minimize cancer-growing cells and increase tumor-cell death. CBD's properties help strengthen cells that kill cancer by inhibiting the cancerous cells ability to make energy. If your dog does end up with a cancer diagnosis, adding CBD to the treatment may also strengthen the chances of beating the disease.

3. Helps With Seizures and Epilepsy

5% of dogs suffer from seizures and require medication to calm the effects. However, not all prescribed medicine is successful in helping dogs with the diagnosis. If the drugs given do help, dogs can still suffer additional issues to their livers and vital organs. CBD is a natural way to combat seizures and has been proven, in human trials, to help drug-resistant epilepsy. 

4. Reduces Pain

Just like humans, when dogs age their bodies start getting weaker, leading to added pain. This pain can make walks harder or hinder playful characteristics your best friend has always had. Adding CBD to your dog's diet has been shown to reduce inflammation that intensifies aging and address neurological and nerve-related pain.

Many people think CBD will get their pets high, but in fact CBD is derived from hemp, not marijuana. THC is what leads to "getting high." Marijuana has both CBD and THC while CBD lacks THC, the component that leads to a high. CBD only has the relaxing characteristics that don't trigger a drug-induced intoxication. 

Finding ways to take care of man's best friend will not only lead to increased happiness for your dog but increased happiness for you too, knowing your dog is basking in its best life possible.