5 Tips For Hosting The Best Thanksgiving Ever

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Thanksgiving is fast approaching! If you’re hosting, you’re probably controlling your excitement with a hint of anxiety. Will the food taste great? Will they love the wine? Will the turkey turn out nice, moist, and well-cooked, or the wine pair perfectly with the food? Will your guests be happy? Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and not worrying. Understandably, you want everything to turn out perfectly fine. So, use these tips to create and host your best Thanksgiving ever.

1. Your menu should be ready by November

Don’t wait until about a couple of weeks to the d-day before you start scrambling for ideas. Start creating your menu and have it done by November (or earlier if you have time). Why this early? It gives you enough time to schedule your shopping and other pre-arrangements. Plus, you’ll avoid the pre-holiday rush and possible hike in prices. You might even have more than enough time to get your trial-and-error moments out of the way. But it would help if you resisted the temptation to try fancy recipes. Instead, stick to something simple and nail it. 

2. Start trying out your food-wine combination

Your Thanksgiving wine should go perfectly with the food. So, waste no time deciding which option is best for the meals you want to prepare. That means you should get your menu right before deciding on your wine. Several tricks and tips are available to guide you when pairing wines with food. The key is to find refreshing yet acidic wines to match the heavy dishes without overpowering any of the meals in terms of taste or flavor. 

3. Set the mood with the right decor

You want your home (or wherever you want to host the dinner) to be in the perfect mood for Thanksgiving. Start making plans for your table setting. Ideally, you want to use fall-themed decorations like pumpkins, seasonal flowers, and scented candles.

After picking your decor elements, give your guests a personalized feel by creating handwritten gratitude notes and leaving them on each seat. The final touch to the perfect mood will be soft background music during the dinner. 

4. Calculate the timing of the meal itself

The main course dish is at the heart of any Thanksgiving dinner, and you need to serve it when it’s at the perfect temperature and texture. Calculate the timing by working backward from when you intend to serve the dinner, then write a step-by-step plan for making the dish. You can do this for every dish, timing each one based on how they’ll overlap. Do this until you’ve gone through all your dishes for the day. 

5. Decide on your helpers and let them know ahead of time

If you’re expecting quite a turn-up, you’ll need all the help you can get. Decide who will be your helpers in the kitchen and tell them their roles beforehand. This way, you wouldn’t have to dictate commands on Thanksgiving day, as everything will flow seamlessly. 

Also, leave the dessert to your guests. If you know who to expect, let them bring the dessert (and even wine) they prefer. Of course, you can still make yours, but you won't be burdened with too much work and’ll have time to focus on the main dish. 

6 Easy Budgeting Tips You Should consider

Budgeting is a vital component of living a financially healthy life. It enables you to use your money wisely to always have enough for the essential things. Rather than being limiting, these practical budgeting tips will assist you in developing a clear image of your spending. They can assist you in discovering extra cash that you can leverage more effectively. Budgeting correctly helps you save more money. The best thing is that effective budgeting habits can be implemented with only a few simple changes to your money-spending routine. This is especially beneficial, considering 83% of Americans overspend. Here are some practical tips you should consider. 

1. Remember that each month is unique

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Some months will require you to budget for back-to-school supplies or basic vehicle maintenance. You may also want to plan for birthdays, vacations, and holidays in other months—plan for all your costs, including those unique needs. As a tip, use your calendar while making your budget to achieve the best results. 

2. Make room for debt payments

Sometimes, you may need a loan to undergo some tasks, and knowing how to pay them is necessary. It’s worth noting that each loan type has its own set of conditions and distinct terms, interest rates, and repayment structures attached to them. Fortunately, an in-depth understanding of things like credit cards, personal loans, and auto loans, home equity loan rates will allow you to budget for the specific terms and repayment conditions attached to the loan. 

3. Organize your invoices and receipts

Organize your bills and receipts if you need to refer back to one to dispute it. This may be useful for tax considerations. Documents can be physically filed using hanging files or expanding folders. If you choose physical filing, arrange your documents by account or month, whatever works best for you. You can also file everything online if you get most of your invoices and receipts by email. 

4. Set goals

Remember why you are budgeting, whether creating an emergency fund or paying off your house. What motivates you to make these sacrifices? Then, write out your objectives. Make them noticeable. Give them a timetable so you can stay on track. This process can help you stay motivated even when you do not feel like it. 

5. Practice budgeting to zero 

This implies you are developing a strategy and naming every dollar before the month begins. This is referred to as a zero-based budget. That does not imply that you have no money in your bank account. (set aside a few hundred dollars as a safety net). It implies that your revenue less all of your costs equals zero. This ensures that no money falls through the gaps or is spent by mistake. This is how you have complete control over every dollar you earn. 

6. Consider observing a no-spend day

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Set aside one day every week to spend no money other than what is essential. This is a simple technique to ensure that your weekly spending days stay within your set budget. If you are having trouble saving money, consider a no-spend month. The plan is to go a month, spending just on basics and putting any surplus money into savings. 

How to Start a Successful Online Business'

Photo by Gerzon Piñata

When you decide to run an online business it's very exciting and it may set butterflies flying in your stomach. After all, you're going to be able to run this business from just about anywhere in the world and make a lot of cash doing it if you know exactly what you're doing. 

However, before you can cross this hurdle you need to make sure that you have systems in place that will skyrocket your business quickly so that you can have the dream lifestyle you are imagining all the time. Here are some tips for making it work.

Focus on Your Passion 

Don't just jump into the world of online business just because you see everybody else doing it. One idea that works for someone may not be right for you. Before you dive off into the water make sure that you are passionate about what you are doing. 

Running an online business is not easy and your feet are going to drag along the way. When this happens the only thing that will assist you from falling flat on your face and failing is your passion for what you are doing. 

You won't want to quit if you have a strong belief in what you are creating. Never just go with the status quo, always make sure that it is fulfilling something deep inside you or you will quit before you see success.

Choose the Right Platform

There are many platforms out there in which you can put your online business but you need to make sure that you are hitching your wagon onto one that is right for you. Sit down and make a list of all the things that your business needs to strive and prosper.

Examine each platform under a microscope and don't leave any detail out. Your e-commerce platform should be one that serves you and your business. Once you have a look at all the microscopic details of what is being offered see if it matches up with your business. If it lines up, move ahead.

While you may never find perfection you should come pretty close. That's when you should start spending money with the platform to set up your business.

Communicate Effectively

Remember that when you run online business you won't get to see your customers face-to-face. This means that you will have to build trust in other ways. The only way to make your customers let down their guard with you and spend, is to make sure that you have open lines of communication. The more avenues you have for them to communicate with you the better off it will be for you in the long run.

Remember that customers should be treated with kid gloves. Think of them as babies in a nursery they have to be treated tenderly and pampered. There are several methods you can use to communicate with them such as email, live support chat for website, and phone calls.

When it comes to business you cannot afford to sleep on anything that can bring you progress. This is especially true in the online world where things change rapidly. Make sure that you're always on the ball, this way you will see your business skyrocketing to success.

How to balance out warmth and style in your winter wardrobe.

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When it comes to summer, autumn, and spring, there are so many outfit possibilities, from chunky brown knitted sweaters to flowy summer dresses, but what about winter? Winter doesn’t exactly get the best reputation when it comes to winter fashion. Sure, if you search on Pinterest, you’re going to find plenty of adorable outfits, but then you need to keep the temperature in mind, the wind chill, the weather, and so on. So there’s a lot of considerations. 

But with that said, no matter how cold it gets in the winter, whether the weather is snowy, icy, wet, dry, and so on. While yes, sometimes it can feel like a challenge to dress stylishly and comfortably but it’s possible. So, here's what you can do to have that balance between dressing up in style while still staying warm. So, here’s what you need to know!

Invest in Quality Outwear

Your choice of outerwear is paramount to staying warm and stylish during winter. You’re going to want to look for a well-insulated, versatile coat or jacket that complements your personal style. Consider classic options like wool pea coats, trench coats, or puffer jackets, which offer both warmth and timeless appeal. Quality outerwear is an investment that can elevate any winter outfit. 

Also, you may want to have several coats; when it comes to winter, sometimes it’s so cold that you need to dress up to the point where you feel like a marshmallow, and other times, just a thick coat with thin layers will do. So be sure to be cautious on what you pick. 

It’s All About the Layers

Layering is the secret weapon for maintaining warmth and style. Layers are never going to go away, and layering is always going to be a major component when it comes to style. This could be wearing thermal wear with a cute cardigan on top or even something simple like a button-up top with a sweater layered on top. These are timeless, and you’re always able to count on staying warm- plus, it’s easy to manage if you’re going to be both indoors and outdoors throughout the day. 

Accessories are Everything

As you most likely know, the accessories you chose can dress up an outfit or even dress it down. Most likely, winter is going to be the most accessory-heavy time of the year. Just think about it: hats, scarves, and there are even stylish thermal gloves for women that can take your whole outfit up another notch.  So just embrace the amount of accessories you can wear because it’s not as stylish to be accessory-heavy during any other season. 

Mix Textures and Fabrics

As stated above, accessories are one of the only things that are more than welcome during the winter; you can over-accessorize, and it’s deemed to be okay. It’s similar to mixing up textures and fabrics. While mixing is always great, during winter, you can take it up another notch, and it’s considered super stylish. Adding texture to your winter outfits is a surefire way to stand out. Mix fabrics like leather, faux fur, suede, and wool to create visual interest. For example, pairing a leather jacket with a faux fur collar and suede boots can elevate your winter ensemble to a new level of sophistication.

Let It Be.

I think our confidence today comes from three places: our past, our present and our future. 

I realized that instead of letting our past go, we need to simply let it be. 

NOT LET IT GO, BUT LET IT BE. 

I thought about this, I thought about this deeply. 

What would our lives and minds be like if we just let it be instead of let it go.

I don't know how to let go that a "friend" ( which I say loosely) tried to destroy everything about me, I don't know how to let go of a very broken relationship with a "best" friend. I don't know how to let go the fact of an abusive employer.  I do know how to let it be and give it to God. One sounds easier then the other, doesn't it? 

To me, letting go something's seem hard, it feels like clenched hands and whitened knuckles negotiating with my past. Letting it be sounds like a release, acknowledgment of what it is but still choosing to sit it down and walk away.  We're still able to see it, we know it's there, but we are choosing to let it be and put the unforgiveness, bitterness and anger at the feet of Jesus. 

What would it be like if we just sat down the box containing our stories of tragedy, hurt and bitterness?

What if we simply put it down and kept walking.  We know they are there, we know that we can go back to them, but for now we choose to let them be.

Forgiveness- of yourself and others--- is the only way to tell a new story. To tell a story of victory and triumph and not one defined by hard or even evil moments that may have occured decades ago. Carrying unforgiveness forces us to live life as victims. When awful things happen to us, we have the choice to stay in the hole dug by the above mentioned hurts or crawl out and brush off the dirt. We can decide to let it be, put the pain at the feet of Jesus over and over. 

The enemy loves when we get stuck carry the weight of unforgiveness, it makes him happy to see how the big heavy box prevent us from living our lives to the fullest capabilities. He hates to see us set free. The weight of our unforgiveness only harms ourselves. I don't know about you but I am tired of carrying that poison around, so put down that box and walk into freedom. 

what I thought marriage would be vs what it is

Today is the day we first met 27 years ago :)

This coming May, we will be married 22 years. 

To be honest marriage is nothing like I imagined but yet it's w.o.n.d.e.r.f.u.l and so much better.

I thought marriage would be: 

-Roses delivered weekly.  Instead I get them at surprise moments which is so much more romantic. 

-Kisses, hugs, make out sessions 24/7

-Lingerie and sex every day and night like the newlywed stage 

-No arguing 

- spending all your free time together

The fairytale wedding is over and the realities of married life are sinking in. Are you missing the "happily ever after"?

Instead Marriage is 

- a text in the day to check in 

- walking to the Operating room door, saying a prayer over me and the drs

- learning to braid my hair while I was recovering from lung surgery 

- driving me to and from apts, interviews, random shopping trips 

- random teading to make me giggle 

- acting silly together 

- road trips, holding hands even at 22 years in.

- waking me every morning so I don't over sleep 

- arguing ( heated discussions)  but always making up 

- praying together 

- cleaning the floors for me every week before small group.

- grocery shopping because I didn't want to go after a long day at work

- vacations together and having a wonderful time.

- booking hotel rooms when my dr tells me I need to disconnect from the world. 

- putting up with grumpy me 

- first person I kiss in the morning 

- last kiss at night 

- my best friend 

- my advice giver 

I feel like the most blessed person in the world to be married to my love ♥️

3 Tips for Keeping Allergies Under Control

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Around 100 million people in the U.S. suffer from one or more allergies that impact their lives. From seasonal allergies that cause massive discomfort during the warmer seasons to life-threatening allergies that can kill you, there are various degrees of severity and, quite literally, hundreds of things you can be allergic to.

In children, the most common allergy is to milk; in adults, it is shellfish, followed by nut allergies. No two people will experience their allergy symptoms exactly the same as you can have varying levels or reactions depending on how your body reacts and, if you are allergic to airborne allergies or particles, or if it is in contact with your body or digestion only.

This post looks at some of the best ways to help you reduce the risk of allergic reactions.

Avoidance

Most people with allergies know to avoid triggers and anything that can trigger an allergic reaction. This means avoiding places that sell foods you are allergic to prevent cross-contamination, staying away from green spaces if you have hay fever, not wearing latex or touching items with latex in for latex allergies avoiding household products, and so on. It's easier said than done, but it is also one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of coming into contact with anything that makes you ill.

Awareness

The more people who are aware of your allergy, the better. This means telling family, friends, contacts, work colleagues, and staff at venues of your allergy so they can help you avoid a reaction and ensure no one is bringing anything near you that you are allergic to. While this isn't necessary for all allergies, for those with life-threatening allergies such as shellfish or nuts, especially if airborne particles trigger your allergy, you need to tell people so they know what might happen should you be put in this situation.

Medication

For seasonal allergies, you can purchase OTC medication to help you control your symptoms and reduce discomfort. There isn't always a suitable treatment plan for other allergies past avoiding the trigger, but you can click here to learn more about medical treatment for allergies. But you can ensure you have an Epi-pen to use in case of exposure and you need emergency treatment. Always ensure it is in good working order, and you replace the device once it has been used so you always have some form of protection with you. Know how to use it and ensure others know you have one so if the worst does happen, they can administer it for you to help you recover faster.

Living with allergies isn't easy, and as such, you need to take the responsibility of making others aware of your allergy and ensure you remain at a safe distance from your triggers wherever possible. This can help you to avoid any symptoms and hospitalizations from coming into contact with them. Never be afraid to share details of your allergy with others, as this can save your life. No one can remove your allergens from your presence if they are unaware they need to do so. 

Things Nobody Tells You About Being married.

If we offered couples an instruction manual to help contextualize and normalize the challenges that arise in any intimate partnership, I can only imagine how different our divorce rate would be.

When we don’t understand what’s normal, it’s easy to assume there’s something wrong with us, our partner, or our relationship. From there, it’s often a downward spiral to breakup or divorce.

Here are 10 things nobody tells you about marriage, a mini-manual that can help you understand what’s normal (and even necessary!) for a marriage to thrive.

1. Marriage doesn't complete you.

Contrary to Jerry Maguire and the implicit messages embedded in statements like "finding the One" or "your other half," a healthy marriage consists of two whole people who partner to create a third body of their marriage. In other words, one plus one doesn't make one or even two; it makes three. You are responsible for your own aliveness and wholeness, and your partner is responsible for his or hers.

2. You won't always like your partner.

His jokes will drive you crazy. Her laugh sounds like fingernails on a chalkboard. That’s simply the way it is when you spend that much time with one human being. We allow for this when it comes to friendships and family, but with partners, we absorb a fantasy that we’re supposed to like everything about each other all the time.

3. Being in love is a stage of relationship that doesn't last forever.

The romantic model says: “You meet, fall in love, and live happily ever after.” We skip over an essential stage: falling out of love. As one of my clients shared: “I had to fall out of love before I learned what real love is all about.” This is something rarely talked about in the mainstream.

And if you didn't have an infatuation stage, it doesn't mean your relationship is doomed! Some people have it and others don't, and there is absolutely no correlation between having an infatuation stage and the success of a marriage.

4. Love can grow with time and effort.

We also grow up believing that you’re either in love or out of love; there’s nothing in between. And we believe that love is quantifiable and a fixed amount, meaning that you can measure it — “Do you love your partner enough?” — and that what you have in the beginning is all you’ll ever have.

The truth is that real love grows over time. Love begins as an empty garden that requires attention and care, and when it’s thoroughly watered and the weeds are pulled, the flowers will blossom over a lifetime.

5. You don't have to feel love to give it.

In our culture that says that love is only a feeling, it's easy to feel confused when the loving feelings fade. Then we balk against advice that says, “Fake it til you make it.” But sometimes, you have to act as-if in a long-term relationship, meaning that even if you don’t feel like giving your partner a good morning kiss, you do it anyway.

6.  Sex is a sacred act of giving and receiving.

It's sad and often detrimental that we're offered zero guidance about one of the most complicated aspects of being human: our sexuality. We learn from pop culture, peers, and now, increasingly, from pornography, that sex is something you use to gain approval, validation or security. Healthy sex is none of those things. Loving sex is an expression of love, an act of connection where you practice the arts and skill of giving and receiving.

7. Marriage is a crucible designed to help you grow.

Marriage isn't "happily ever after." It isn't the end of the road, the resting spot for eternal happiness. Marriage is one of the most challenging and rewarding paths we can commit to as human beings.

As such, it will activate every element of unshed grief, unattended fear, unfinished transition and it will bring to light the fear and false beliefs you've absorbed from your first blueprint and the culture about love. Knowing that the going is supposed to get rough can give you fortitude when you want to walk out the door.

8. Your first blueprint for intimate partnership informs how you approach your marriage.

If you witnessed a healthy marriage growing up, you're much more likely to naturally implement the principles and actions required for marriage success.

On the other hand, if you witnessed a marriage characterized by criticism, nagging, distance, arguing, or abuse, you’ll have to fight your template at every turn.

It’s not easy work, but just because it’s work doesn’t mean you’re with the wrong person. If you’re with a loving partner, the work is a sign that you’re pushing up against your dysfunctional or limited blueprint and it’s an invitation to create a new legacy of healthy partnership.

9. Life with young children is stressful.

That's it: it's stressful, overwhelming, rich, and beautiful — and it will put a strain on even the best of marriages. I often think it's a small miracle that any couple survives parenting intact, as there's such a demand on time and filling needs other than your own that the marriage is sure to suffer.

Knowing this can help you weather these challenging years, while remembering how important it is to find time to nurture both yourself and the marriage, no matter how small.

Four Pillars to help you thrive as a mompreneur

Most moms out there strive to be something more than “just a mom.” We often want to feel that we also have the power to build our own little lives and livelihoods while still loving and embracing every minute of being a full-time mom! Merging the nurturing world of motherhood with the exciting realm of entrepreneurship is a challenging yet super-rewarding process. Taking on this journey may feel like a stress overload, but believe this: Your nurturing spirit and multitasking ability have already set you several steps ahead of the crowd. So, as you stand proud at this exciting junction, let’s take a look at some things you have to keep in mind. 

Via Pexels

You Need To Discover Your Niche

Most successful ventures are rooted in passion. Without passion, you might be successful in terms of finances, but you will probably lack the super-important reward of purpose. So, it’s important to remember that it’s not just about identifying a gap in the market, which is essential, but finding what genuinely resonates with you is the key. Whether it’s creating artisanal jewelry, offering unique home décor, or diving into the world of affiliate programs such as becoming a payday loan affiliate, you have to make sure your chosen niche aligns with your authentic self. Heartfelt dedication is often what sets apart thriving businesses from those that falter. When you love what you do, challenges become milestones, and setbacks become lessons.

Networking Is So Worth It

Every entrepreneur out there will tell you that your network has tremendous worth. Collaboration often trumps competition. Ever heard the saying, “There’s power in numbers”? Well, it’s true. By networking with fellow mompreneurs, you open doors to shared knowledge, resources, potential partnerships, and, importantly, markets. These relationships offer insights that books or courses couldn’t offer you. Through shared experiences and mutual support, your network can become your most treasured asset on your path to success.

Juggling Time Is The Key To Success

As a mother, you’ve probably mastered the art of multitasking. So, more than others. Knowing when to switch roles and set boundaries is an art and science. So try to incorporate your everyday wisdom into your business. Create dedicated time blocks for tasks, ensure undisturbed moments with your little ones, and remember the golden rule: It’s okay to seek help. Delegate tasks, consider automation tools, and always prioritize family, even if that means bringing in some external help from a grandparent so that you can focus on your business without the guilt of neglecting the kids. You will have good days and bad days; sometimes, things will be urgent, and it is important to remember why you’re in this game. 

Continuous Learning & Growth Will Allow You To Thrive

The business world has been, currently is, and will forever be changing; so staying up-to-date with the latest happenings, technologies, and skills is crucial for sustainable success. So don’t forget to dedicate time to personal and professional growth, as this will help your business to thrive. Attend webinars, read related blogs, or even enroll in short courses. This commitment will ensure your business remains competitive and fuels your confidence and expertise as a mompreneur!

So, while these pillars provide a framework, it’s really important to remember that your journey will be truly unique because there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to entrepreneurship. It will be filled with moments of delight, self-doubt, and numerous learning experiences. So, embrace them all, trust your intuition, and, most of all, believe in your potential and your cause.

God, Family and Football

If you are a football coach, or football family, this one should be played for the team.   Hard work is what it takes, but hard work, trust and believe when you are waiting for answers. 

God. Family. Football., is a coming-of-age docuseries following former pro football player, legendary high school football 

coach, and pastor Denny Duron, as he comes out of a 30-year retirement from head coaching to lead the football program he founded at Evangel Christian Academy back to national prominence. 

A sneak peek for you here trailer

In the series #GodFamilyFootballFV the perennial high school football powerhouse—14 state championships in the 

last 20 years—coming off their worst season in school history, redemption is everyone’s goal. 

Pastor Denny Duron has returned to the head coaching position to lead this talented group of kids, with dreams of playing in college and the NFL, into prominence on the field, while molding them into future leaders off of it. 

As the team faces struggle and triumph on and off the field, they are united by 

coach Duron’s formula for success: “God first, family second, and football third. NFL quarterback Russell Wilson is an executive producer in #GodFamilyFootballMIN

• Stream the brand-new series on 9/1 on Amazon #FreeveePartner – for free. 

Disclosure: 

Many thanks to Amazon Freevee for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Keeping chaos to a minimum when renovating your home

You can't really get through a home renovation without a little chaos. There's no avoiding the fact that it's going to disrupt your life, whether it's for a few days, weeks, or even months. What you can do is take steps to try and keep the chaos to a minimum. If your renovation is well organized, and you prepare for it smartly, you can contain all of the disruption as much as possible. To make this happen, you have to think carefully about how to protect your home and ensure the work will go smoothly. Here are some steps to help you pull it off.

Remove Items Where Necessary

Renovations are likely to involve a lot of dust and general messiness. You don't want any of your furniture or other possessions to be damaged, so it's important to consider how you're going to protect them. Sometimes it's necessary to remove items, not just to protect them but also to allow space for the work to be completed. Looking for storage near me is a smart way to get somewhere to put some of your stuff. If you can't just shuffle it around within your home, it makes sense to find somewhere else you can store it.

Image from Pexels - CC0 License

Protect Anything That Remains

You probably won't want to completely empty your home, so you also have to make plans for anything that you don't remove. For larger items of furniture, it's pretty simple to cover everything up with dust sheets. This should keep the majority of dust and debris away so your furniture is protected. Smaller items might need to be boxed up and moved somewhere out of the way. That could just mean moving them to another room or storing them in your attic, basement, or wherever else you might have space.

Choose the Right Contractors

If you want to ensure your renovation goes as smoothly as possible, you definitely need to hire the right contractors. Of course, you need to hire people who will get you the results you want. But their process when they're working matters too. You need them to be considerate of their surroundings and careful about cleaning up after themselves. They should be able to work with you to develop a schedule that works. When you're looking for contractors, make sure you pay attention to their reviews and what their past customers have to say about their processes.

Stay Out of the Way

Once you've found contractors you can trust, you need to let them get on with the work. It can be tempting to micromanage or watch them working, but doing this could mean they work slower. They could even end up making mistakes if you're breathing down their necks. So try to stay out of their way while they're working if you want them to stay on schedule and get the job done right.

Renovations don't have to be complete chaos. They might be disruptive, but you can take steps to ensure they go smoothly.

heartfelt ways to celebrate your husband on his birthday

Most wives know that finding the perfect way to celebrate their husband’s birthday can be both a joy and a headache. Some are really gifted, and find it easy to do something special, while others tend to struggle with it. With every year that passes, the desire to make it more special than the last one grows. After all, this is the man who’s been by your side through thick and thin. It’s his special day, and you want to celebrate it in a way that captures the essence of your shared journey. Today, we’re highlighting some ideas to help you with this journey. 

Via Pexels

Take A Walk Down Memory Lane

If it is within reach, organize a surprise trip to visit places that have been significant in your journey together. Think of the spot where you first met, had your first date, or where he proposed. Revisiting those memories and taking a moment to reflect on how far you’ve come can be very special. 

A Playlist Of Memories

Music has a unique way of capturing memories and taking you back in time. Create a playlist of songs from different stages of your relationship, starting from high school. Play it during dinner, a quiet evening together, or while driving on a trip, and reminisce about the moments they remind you of. The value here is that the music unlocks the memories, which you can experience again together by talking about those memories. 

Commission A Personalized Art Piece

If you have an iconic photograph of a special moment between you and your husband, you could try to find a local artist and ask them to recreate that iconic image in a painting or a sketch. It’s not just about the finished product, but the thought behind it. 

A Day Off

This is an option not all men will want to take, but let’s face it, adulting is hard! Give him a complete day off. If you can handle his responsibilities for the day and let him enjoy whatever he wishes to - be it a day out with friends, catching up on his favorite series, or just lazing around.

Plan A Surprise Activity

Pick something he’s never done before but has shown interest in. Maybe it’s bungee jumping, an escape room, or a track day with a sports car. It’s the thrill of the unknown that makes it exciting for most men. The key is to keep your ear on the ground throughout the year to find out what those interests are. 

Get Him The Gift He Wants

Men can often surprise you with the lamest gift requests. From things like new socks to that new chainsaw from Redback Tools. Those requests often seem silly to us, but the reality is that those gifts do mean a lot to them, and that’s what matters. So pay attention to their requests. If you feel that the gift they want is too small or insignificant, then bundle it together with other things you can think of, but make sure you get them what they want.

A birthday isn’t just about the gifts or the party; it’s about celebrating the person and the memories you’ve built together. By personalizing his day, you’re telling him how much he means to you. So, while these are just a few suggestions, always remember it’s the thought and love behind the gesture that truly counts.

Naked

After using different brands of creatine, I switched to Naked partially due to the fact that it was rated by Healthline as their top creatine but also because you get a lot for the price. some of their others. It comes with a measuring spoon and mixes well with no flavor.  

Now more than ever, health-minded people are interested in more than just calories and macronutrients—they’re interested in ingredient quality, too.

Sports supplements often feature notoriously long ingredient labels, full of unfamiliar ingredients that can sound more industrial than nutritional.

These ingredients aren’t necessarily harmful, but there’s a huge and growing demand for sports supplements with simple, traceable ingredients.

That’s where Naked Nutrition comes in. This brand’s original Naked Whey isa protein powdermade with just one ingredient: whey protein from grass-fed cows.

Key Features

• Made with minimal ingredients, like grass-fed whey and organic coconut sugar
• Informed Choice certified for sport
• Free of artificial ingredients
• Provides 25 grams of protein per serving

Naked Whey Protein Ingredients

Naked Whey is made with simple, high-quality ingredients that are as minimally processed as possible for a protein powder. All the flavors are gluten-free, GMO-free, soy-free and free of artificial flavors, sweeteners and colors. The whey in every flavor is also sourced from grass-fed cows that aren’t given supplemental growth hormones.

The powder is cold-processed, which according to Naked Nutrition is a gentler form of processing that preserves the quality of the ingredients.

Also, Naked Whey grass-fed whey protein powder is Informed Choice certified for sport—meaning it is free of all banned substances identified by the World Anti-Doping Agency. This certification ensures that it can be used without issue by competitive athletes, and what you see on the label is what you get.

Here’s the ingredient list for each flavor:
Original: whey protein concentrate
Chocolate: whey protein concentrate, organic coconut sugar, organic cacao powder
Vanilla: whey protein concentrate, organic coconut sugar, organic natural flavor
Strawberry: whey protein concentrate, organic coconut sugar, organic dried strawberries 

Every teacher needs to start their day with a protein drink

Satisfy your chocolate cravings and increase daily protein intake on a busy schedule. Chocolate Coconut Almond Naked Shake starts with our best-selling pea protein, adds MCT oil, and natural plant-based flavors. The result is a crave-worthy shake that delivers 20g of protein and only 3g of sugar. Naked Shake only contains the premium ingredients you need to maintain optimal energy levels and manage a healthy weight.

At Naked Nutrition, we are committed to shortening the steps between our farms and you.

Why you're child might be having trouble at school.

You may know that your child is bright and full of potential, but the realities of school can sometimes have a pretty disheartening way of really pushing them to the grindstone. Just because your child is not currently doing well at school does not mean that they’re not capable. But rather, there are a lot of factors that could be getting in the way of the potential they could reach.

Photo - CC0 License

A poor routine

Managing a family can be tough, there’s no doubt about it. However, if your child doesn’t get the time they need to work, sleep, and get ready in the morning, they could be getting into school unprepared and low in energy. Creating a real family routine and being a little more organized in how they spend their time can help them be a lot more prepared and energized for the day of learning.

Neglecting the studies

Children don’t need to spend hours studying every single day, but it is true that if a little too much time is spent away from certain topics and subjects, then your child will forget them. As such, you should make sure that you’re aware of the topics that your kids are understanding, and to try and layer some additional learning for them to be able to keep on top of it. You can make it fun, too, for instance, with educational family trips.

A mismatch of learning styles

Sometimes, it’s all about learning what methods and modes of learning might best suit your child compared to others. For instance, some children tend to be more kinetic learners, others more audial, and others more kinetic. If you can get a good idea of what kind of learning style fits your child, then you can help adapt their curriculum so they might better engage with it at home.

Undiagnosed learning difficulties

Learning needs change from child to child and can develop or be noticed at any age. As well as issues like ADHD, you should also consider options like dyslexia if your child has trouble reading, or even hyperlexia if they have excellent reading abilities, but seem to lag elsewhere. Getting a diagnosis and learning more about the condition can open up the road to therapeutic plans, as well as tools and tips you and your child’s teachers can use to reduce the barrier that such difficulties present.

A poor learning environment

You don’t have a lot of control over the kind of learning environment your child is provided in school (unless you plan to move schools), but you can make sure that they’re not riddled with distractions at home. Creating a study space at home, and making sure that distractions like the TV, video games, or your other kids are kept out can make it a lot easier for them to focus on homework and studying when they get home.

If your child is having trouble at school, before you point any fingers, take the time to investigate the examples mentioned above, first and foremost. It could be that finding and exploring the cause could prove a major help.

A Complete Back to School Guide

A guest has taken over my blog today ( my favourite guest).. she wrote a back to school guide and I liked it so I thought it would be beneficial.   

A Complete Back to School Guide 

From a 3rd year university student...

Here’s a little background information on me. I’m a 3rd year university student double majoring in Music and French. I have figured out what works for me, it may not work for everyone.

Supplies

There are really not many things that you need to survive and thrive in university, at least as far as school supplies are concerned. The biggest necessity is a laptop. We are living in the digital age and everything that you do in university is online. Some other essentials include:

• Notebooks 

• Folders/binders

• Pens/pencils

• Highlighters

• Planner/calendar

• Graph paper

I prefer to take notes on paper, I find that I retain the information better. However, others prefer taking notes digitally using a laptop or tablet. I like to keep any handouts given to me in folders, a binder with dividers would work just as well. In university, there are bound to be readings and textbooks, highlighters and pens are great to write in margins. If you are taking any math or stats classes, graph paper is super important. My favourite option is graph notebooks, keeps everything bound together nicely. After a laptop, the most important school supply is a planner or calendar. There will be plenty of assignments and due dates that are important to keep track of.

To keep organized, I colour code each class. Each notebook and folder are matching, and I like to write all due dates and assignments in the same colour as well. For this semester my colours are red, blue, orange, green, and purple. 

Before Starting School

I have several things that I like to do in the weeks leading up to school starting. The biggest thing is that I like to do a deep clean of my room. If you are moving into a dorm, this will be the equivalent of that step. If you are living at home, like me, or in an apartment, having a clean and organized living space is a fresh way to start your school year.  Shopping for your supplies and getting them prepared for back to school is a good way to get into the school mindset. 

First Week

Your first week of school can be incredibly scary. There are a few things that will help to ease the transition. 

1. Read all of the syllabi and write the due dates down in your planner. 

2. Get to know the school and your classes right away.

3. If possible, get to know your profs/teachers. Not everyone can do this, especially in larger schools. But it is good to try.

4. Set a routine right away. Consistency is great and getting in good study and lifestyle habits is important to start right away.

Important Tips and Tricks

• The most important thing is your physical and mental health. Everyone wants good grades, but your health is the most important thing. Prioritize at least an hour a week to do something for yourself.

• Make sure to socialize with your classmates. Plan a study date or a time to get together with others in your program.

• Don’t be afraid to ask for an extension on assignments. Life happens, professors are usually pretty accommodating with giving extensions.

• Get your assignments started early. It’s easy to say that you will do this, however actually doing it is much more difficult. The hardest part of any task is starting it, just do it.

• Utilize your schools’ resources. The study spaces, the tutoring services, anything may offer is there to help.

Happy back to school season, go out there and do your best!

The Hill

NEVER GIVE UP HOPE! Whatever your dream is, you have to pursue it and make it a reality, it will take hard work but you can do it if you try.  Even with a disability, it can happen.  People will try to knock you down, but you have to keep going, keep dreaming and pursuing that dream. 

Growing up impoverished in small-town Texas, young Rickey Hill shows an extraordinary ability for hitting a baseball, despite being burdened by leg braces from a degenerative spinal disease. His stern, pastor father (DENNIS QUAID) discourages Rickey from playing baseball to protect him from injury, and to have him follow in his footsteps and become a preacher. 

As a young man, Rickey (COLIN FORD) becomes a baseball phenomenon. His desire to participate in a try-out for a legendary major league scout divides the family and threatens Rickey’s dream of playing professional baseball. Based on a true story. 

The Hill is 

• Directed by: Jeff Celentano

• Produced by: Warren Ostergard, Jeff Celentano

• Starring: Dennis Quaid, Colin Ford, Joelle Carter, Randy Houser, Bonnie Bedelia, 

Scott Glen

Buy tickets today to see #TheHillMIN only in theaters starting August 25th!

 Links

Website/Ticketing Page: LINK

Trailer: LINK

Disclosure:

Many thanks to Briarcliff Entertainment, LLC for providing a sample of the product for this review as well as a special thank you to #MomentumInfluencerNetwork . Opinions are 100% my own.

ordinary Angels

This is an incredible movie. Coming soon.

https://youtu.be/R1vn8kPgCYA

Based on a remarkable true story, ORDINARY ANGELS centers on Sharon (Hilary Swank), a fierce but struggling hairdresser in small-town Kentucky who discovers a renewed sense of purpose when she meets Ed (Alan Ritchson), a widower working hard to make ends meet for his two daughters. With his youngest daughter waiting for a liver transplant, Sharon sets her mind to helping the family and will move mountains to do it. What unfolds is the inspiring tale of faith, everyday miracles, and ordinary angels.

How to transform a garden you have left to grow wild

It’s a habit that many people have when they’re not green-thumbed or enjoy using their garden on a regular basis. Chances are, if you’re not someone who likes to garden or you’re not out in the garden as often as you could be, you’ve left it to grow a little wild.

While there’s nothing wrong with that, especially when it comes to encouraging wildlife, it ends up being a space on the property that’s underutilized. As a household, getting outside is beneficial to your health and well-being. It’s a great mood booster to get outside but when your garden looks unkept and uninviting, you’re less like to want to go out there.

With that being said, here are a few tips that might help when it comes to transforming your garden and changing it from a jungle to a relaxing oasis.

Image Source

Invest in the right tools

First and foremost, make sure you’re investing in the right tools. This is important because if you’ve not got the right tools, then you’re likely going to struggle to make any significant difference to the wild environment you’ve got in your backyard.

It’s the simple and most basic tools that most people will need in their toolkits. From their lawnmower to tackle overgrown lawns, to trowels and shovels to pull up all the old plants and weeds.

Making sure you have the very basic tools for the job and a place to store those tools so they remain in tip-top condition is essential. With that being said, consider what tools you have, if any, and what tools you might be missing and need more of. To take this project seriously, you need the tools that will make it easier for you and your household to tackle it successfully.

Start by getting rid of all of the dead plants

To get yourself off to a productive start, focus on what is currently the main eyesore in your garden. Chances are, these are all the weeds and dead plants that aren’t salvageable in any way.

Weeds and dead plants do nothing for the space and they can also hinder the growth of your healthy plants and flowers. Not only that but weeds and dead plants can start to smell, which is not what you want when it comes to your garden. You want to be able to step outside into the fresh air and smell all of the beautiful plants and flowers that are flourishing in the space.

Again, this is where you need your gardening tools. This will help get rid of all the dead plants and weeds that have burrowed into the ground and might not be easy to just dig up. Once you’ve gotten rid of all the dead plants, you’ll have a much better idea of how the space looks.

Remove any clutter in the space to start from scratch

Talking of visualizing the space more clearly, make sure you’ve removed any clutter in the space so that you can start from scratch.

Depending on your household, you might have old toys from kids during their younger years that have remained in the garden and have been covered up by the wildness. Broken furniture or damaged features in the garden need to be removed and this might require you to hire a skip to get rid of it all.

If you hardly go out into the garden, then a lot of this stuff is likely undiscovered, and therefore you’ve probably got a lot more to get rid of than you thought. Removing the clutter will ensure your space is set up for the transformation it needs.

Bring in the professionals for the bigger jobs

There are going to be some jobs that come with this gardening project that might be a little out of your skillset. It might also be the case that you don’t have the equipment or knowledge to operate said equipment to carry out the necessary tasks needed.

Whether it’s completely landscaping and digging up the ground, adding decking, or removing big trees. It’s important that you’ve got some gardening experts on speed dial for when you might need them.

A good reason to use professionals is when you need tree trimmers. Trimming trees isn’t easy, especially when they’re grown so high that you can’t reach them with your own ladders. Not only that but you don’t want to chop down a branch that compromises the tree, or impacts any wildlife that might currently be nesting in there.

For bigger projects, don’t attempt to do it yourself, especially if it’s a risk of injury or safety. Hopefully, there are plenty of gardening experts and companies who will be more than willing to help.

Incorporate some new flowers for color

To help add some bursts of color to the space, consider new flowers in the space. There is an abundance of flower types to choose from, which means it’s worth checking out and doing some research on flowers from all areas around the world.

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Thanks to the internet, we’ve got a lot of options at our fingertips and the more variation you bring into your garden, the more wildlife you’re likely to attract as a result.

However, it’s good to be selective about what types of flowers you pick based on the colors they’ll create. You may be someone who wants to have a certain color palette in the space, whereas others aren’t fussed about having the entirety of the color wheel in their backyard.

Be sure to place the flowers strategically and ensure they’re in the right environment for maximized growth capability.

Add shrubs for structure in the space

Structuring the space is important, whether you’ve got a fairly compact backyard or it goes on for yards. It’s something that can add a bit more comfort and intimacy within the space, regardless of how big it might be.

Shrubs are great to introduce in the space when there’s little to no structure. If your garden does feel like one big open space, then it’s definitely worth it to add some shrubs to give it that definition. While some might use stronger materials like brickwork to create said structures, that might not be something you’re after.

It’s often good for households that have families and pets running about, to have more soft cushioning such as shrubs to fall into!

Incorporate different textures to keep it interesting

The texture is important when it comes to your home because it’s good to have something different to capture your gaze. Whether your garden is going to be mainly enjoyed by your household or you consider yourself to be a sociable butterfly with guests coming over every other day, the texture is good to incorporate.

It’s not just adding a bit of lawn to the space and calling it a day. You want to think about what other materials you could add to the space that will make it interesting. Whether that’s wood chippings like bark, to beautiful, decorative stones of all shapes and sizes.

Think about how you can create sections in the space that will help transform your garden into something more than just every other generic garden space.

Feed the birds and encourage new wildlife

It’s important to make your garden a space that can be enjoyed by all and that includes your local wildlife. Your garden will grow and thrive when you encourage new wildlife into the space. With that being said, consider feeding the birds with bird feed and birdhouses that will allow them to come back and nest with their young.

Incorporate other features and purposely place flowers or plants that will attract different types of wildlife of all shapes and sizes.

Add a few water features

Water features are a great option to add to the space, especially when it comes to adding to the wildlife but also the ambiance of your backyard.

Image Source

There’s nothing more relax-inducing, than a water feature or two. From bird baths to small fountains, it can all add to the soundscape of your garden, thrown in with bird song and crickets chirping.

Think about adding a pond too if you have the room for it. This is great for attracting even more wildlife and for a place to relax around if you’ve got some outdoor seating available.

Don’t forget about the lighting

It’s important not to forget about the lighting in your space. Consider what type of lighting you might be after or missing when it comes to maximizing your enjoyment of the space outside. 

Even though it might be dark during the cooler months of the year, adding some fairy lights and a firepit might be just what you need to encourage your family outside for an evening of stargazing. Lighting makes a big difference and so it’s worth experimenting with the space and placing lights strategically to make it just as visible as it would be in the day.

Hopefully, with these tips, you’ll be able to transform your garden from a wild space into something that can be enjoyed every day.

Tackling The Dreaded Procrastination At Home

Most people have found themselves nestled comfortably, eyes glued to that intriguing series, and then a nagging thought about an unfinished task pops in? We’ve all been there. Today we’re taking some time to look over some tips for getting things done at home. Let’s embark on this journey to sprinkle a dash of motivation into our homes.

Via Pexels

#1. Understanding Procrastination & Carving Out Your Space

Recognize that procrastinating is a battle of wills - yours against the temptation to delay. The home environment, with its comforts, often blurs the line between relaxation and laziness. To combat this, dedicate a specific space for accomplishing tasks. Whether it’s a desk with your favorite stationery or a cozy reading nook, make it inviting and functional. Every time you enter this zone, it’ll be a mental cue to get down to business.

#2. Sorting Your Priorities

Procrastination sometimes stems from overwhelm, especially when we have a lengthy to-do list. How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time! The same philosophy applies to tasks. Start by categorizing them based on urgency and importance. This method, often referred to as the Eisenhower Box, helps to visualize and prioritize. Tasks that are both urgent and important get your immediate attention. Those that are important but not urgent can be scheduled for later. And tasks that are neither? Well, consider if they’re worth your time at all. As you become proficient in sorting and prioritizing, you’ll find a rhythm that can make even the most daunting list approachable.

#3. The Art Of Self-Made Deadlines

Self-discipline and deadlines go hand-in-hand. While the idea of ‘self-made’ might sound casual, it’s anything but that. These are commitments you make to yourself. So, when setting a deadline, be realistic about the time you need. Align it with your energy levels during the day, if you’re a morning person, schedule demanding tasks for AM hours. Use tools, digital or analog, to help you stick to these deadlines. For instance, setting alarms or reminders can create a sense of urgency, nudging you to complete tasks within the self-set timeframe. Also, it’s a good idea to factor in some buffer time for unforeseen delays, ensuring you don’t get easily derailed.

#4. The Reward System

Rewards are a psychological pat on the back, and they come in all shapes and sizes. Personalize your reward system to what truly motivates you. For some, it could be a short walk outside to rejuvenate, and for others, it might be a piece of chocolate or an episode of a beloved show. But here’s the thing: ensure your rewards are proportionate to the task. Finished a small task? A 10-minute break. Completed a massive project? Perhaps an evening out or a special treat. Creating a tiered reward system can keep you motivated for both the small tasks and the bigger, more demanding ones.

#5. Put It In Writing 

The act of writing involves cognitive processing which can anchor a task in your mind, making it less likely to forget or dismiss. Beyond just listing tasks, detail the specifics. Instead of writing “Clean the house,” break it down: “Vacuum the living room, sanitize the kitchen counters, mop the bathroom floor.” This level of granularity can make tasks more actionable. Additionally, seeing a broken-down list can make them feel less daunting. The physical act of ticking or crossing off a task can release small doses of dopamine, our feel-good neurotransmitter, which naturally pushes us to achieve more.

Via Pexels

#6. Equip Yourself Right

The proverb “A bad workman blames his tools” holds a grain of truth. While skills and determination are pivotal, the right tools can significantly boost efficiency. If you’re avoiding trimming your lawn because your mower’s always jamming, it’s counter-productive. Invest in reliable equipment; the upfront cost often pays off in the long run through time saved and better results. Before making purchases, research reviews, visit specialized stores like a lawn mower store, and chat with professionals. They can provide insights on the best tools tailored to your needs, ensuring that your toolkit, be it for gardening, DIY projects, or home maintenance, is both efficient and reliable.

#7. Family: Your Secret Weapon

Harnessing the collective energy of your household can be a game-changer. Think about it: four hands are better than two, right? But it’s not just about delegation or distributing chores. It’s about building a home culture that values teamwork and shared responsibility. Make chores a fun, family activity. Play some music, create a small competition, or establish a weekly “clean-up hour” where everyone pitches in. For kids, it’s also an opportunity to instill a sense of responsibility.

#8. Share Your Goals

Accountability is a powerful motivator. When we tell someone about our plans or goals, a subtle psychological commitment forms. This feeling intensifies when the person we’ve shared with checks in on our progress. Therefore, talk about your aspirations, be it decluttering your attic, starting a new workout routine, or even taking on a DIY project. It could be to a close friend, a family member, or even a social media circle.

#9. Don’t Hesitate To Seek Help

Being self-reliant is commendable, but we all have our strengths and weaknesses. If you’re facing a task that’s out of your depth, it’s okay to ask for help. This could be in the form of hiring a professional, or simply recruiting a friend with more experience in the task at hand. For instance, if you’re struggling with organizing your closet, maybe a friend known for their meticulous organization skills can offer some pointers. Not only will the task become more manageable, but this shared experience can also be a fun way to bond.

#10. Manage Those Digital Temptations

We live in an age where a beep from our devices can pull our attention away in an instant. While technology is a boon, it can be a significant source of distraction when trying to accomplish tasks at home. Set boundaries. Dedicate periods where your phone is on ‘Do Not Disturb’ mode to promote concentrated work sessions. If you’re working on a computer, consider browser extensions that limit time on distracting websites. Remember, it’s not about cutting out digital devices entirely but using them in a way that serves, rather than disrupts, your productivity.

#11. Remember, You’re Only Human

On days when motivation seems sparse, remind yourself that it’s okay. Embrace the ebb and flow of productivity. Being kind to yourself, understanding that some days are naturally more productive than others, can prevent feelings of guilt and burnout.

There we have it. Remember that homes are meant for both comfort and accomplishment. With a dash of determination and these tried-and-tested strategies, procrastination doesn’t stand a chance. Here’s to a proactive and fulfilled life at home!

6 Consequences Of Poor Oral Hygiene

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Poor oral care causes unpleasant consequences ranging from health to personal appearance. As such, it’s essential to adopt daily habits, such as brushing your teeth twice daily and eating a nutrient-rich diet, to ensure good dental health. Good oral hygiene has several benefits, including boosting your confidence and lowering the risk of health issues such as severe toothache. Unfortunately, 3.5 billion people worldwide have oral diseases, indicating the need for more to be done. These points highlight common consequences of poor oral hygiene and how to prevent or treat them.

1. Severe tooth decay

Any sign of tooth decay indicates the presence of harmful bacteria in your oral cavity. However, the appearance of your decay may significantly differ from the next person due to the various decay stages. According to dental research, the first stage is demineralization, closely followed by enamel breakdown, dentin decay, pulp damage, and abscess. These five stages determine the severity of your tooth decay and how it must be treated or resolved. The most important thing to note is that any tooth decay stage must be immediately attended to. You increase the risk of excruciating toothache when you fail to see the dentist. Even worse, severe decay often necessitates avoidable extractions, causing you to lose permanent teeth when you could have saved them with prompt dental care. Undoubtedly, poor oral hygiene sets the stage for progressive tooth decay and negatively impacts your overall well-being. 

For this reason, do not ignore cavities even when they aren’t causing pain yet. Some cavities are hidden and can only be seen with a dental mirror. Therefore, booking regular appointments with the dentist is best. This way, early signs of decay can be stopped and treated before things get out of hand.

2. Gingivitis 

Do you bleed whenever you brush your teeth or floss? That can be a sign of early-stage gingivitis. This oral disease derives its name from the gingiva - the gum around your teeth’s base. Therefore, in layman’s terms, gingivitis is an inflammation of this part of the gum. It is often characterized by swollen, red gums, which may independently resolve if you adopt proper oral hygiene. Plaque and tartar put undue pressure on the gingiva, causing irritation and inflammation. Gingivitis is often overlooked because it does not present pain in the early stages. However, you will feel pain when the disease progresses into a more severe condition called Periodontitis, which will be discussed in detail in the next point. 

Proper oral care can prevent gingivitis and any progression of the disease. Additionally, setting regular dental appointments may help detect this oral condition in the early stages. One important tip to be guided by is being observant when brushing or flossing your teeth. If you use white or other colored toothpaste, look for blood streaks in the lathered paste. Except for red-colored toothpaste, any other shade will indicate blood presence.

Additionally, look for signs of gumline bleeding after flossing or streaks on the used dental floss. Consult the local dentist if you see blood often when you clean your mouth. Health experts also recommend increasing your Vitamin C intake if your gum often bleeds by eating more fruits like kiwis and oranges and vegetables like peppers and kale.

3. Periodontitis

As mentioned earlier, untreated gingivitis can lead to advanced Periodontitis. With the former, inflammation is restricted to the gum lines only. However, Periodontitis is characterized by gum and bone separation from the teeth, causing bacteria-infested pocket formations at the base of affected teeth. It can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Moreover, severe Periodontitis requires extensive treatment, which explains why you mustn’t ignore gingivitis in the first place. Untreated Periodontitis can predispose you to some systemic problems. According to research, your risk of cardiovascular disease and respiratory infections is higher when this condition is untreated. Therefore, avoid waiting until the last minute before taking dental health decisions, as it might cost you more money. Fortunately, you can live an improved quality of life by being proactive rather than reactive to health situations.

4. Discolored teeth that negatively impact your smile

Tannin is an organic compound with some antioxidant properties. They can also be used as a dye for fabric. So, what has tannin got to do with your smile? Drinking coffee, tea, and wine very often could stain your teeth. These drinks contain high doses of tannin that put your pearly whites at risk. Many online articles connect stained teeth to excessive coffee, tea, and wine consumption. Therefore, it may be time to take certain measures if you fall into this category. 

Another reason for stained teeth is nicotine which is found in tobacco products. Research Gate data shows that 28% of smokers notice mild teeth discoloration in the first year of daily nicotine exposure. Professional cleaning can be one of many solutions to resolve discolored dentition. Reducing excessive coffee, tea, and wine consumption is also good. Smokers are also advised to decrease or stop the habit with professional rehabilitation. However, a cosmetic dentist would be needed in severe cases of stained teeth, so keep this in mind.

5. Halitosis or bad breath

Bad breath can be extremely embarrassing for all parties and can be prevented with good oral hygiene. According to science, poor oral hygiene creates the perfect breeding ground for compound-releasing bacteria. You often perceive this unpleasant-smelling compound as bad breath or halitosis. However, it’s worth noting that the slightly bad breath you experience when you wake up in the morning may not necessarily be the same as halitosis. Saliva production decreases when you sleep at night, causing a temporal dry mouth. Therefore, the lack of oral lubrication leads to that early morning breath which should disappear after brushing with fluoride toothpaste. However, persistent foul-smelling breath indicates the presence of an underlying oral condition. Some medical conditions like chronic acid reflux and diabetes can cause halitosis; however, poor oral hygiene tops the list of causes.

Mint gum can only mask the odor for as long as you chew, but when you’re done, the bad breath returns. The solution is to adopt good oral hygiene habits and commit to them. It would help to also book a dental appointment to rule out any other hidden problems.

6. Lower self-esteem

People are naturally drawn to confidence and a good appearance. One way to achieve that appeal is through your smile. Many people with visible dental issues are guarded about their smiles, which can cause confidence and self-esteem issues. For instance, if you have missing or discolored teeth or deal with halitosis, you will likely avoid social interactions to prevent others from seeing your teeth. This situation could eventually significantly impact your self-esteem. However, prioritizing your oral health will help give you a more confident and vibrant smile and boost your self-esteem during interactions. Thanks to technology and scientific advancement, helpful solutions like dental implants, dentures, veneers, crowns, and cosmetic fillings exist and are available to explore, depending on your dentist’s recommendation. A cosmetic dentist will determine which treatment option is ideal for your case. You can enjoy smiling again when the missing tooth is replaced, or the discolored set is cleaned.

There are many negative effects of poor oral hygiene that transcend appearance issues. Therefore, avoid ignoring or overlooking urgent dental care even when you don’t feel any pain. It’s best to be more intentional about your oral health, even if it means taking little consistent steps each day. This way, you can reduce the likelihood of experiencing the abovementioned consequences.