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board members

How Portal Software Improves Communication Between Board Members

Managing the board of a corporation or not-for-profit, no matter how large or small always comes with a number of challenges. Board members, who may be based in several different cities, need to be able to communicate easily and openly with each other, but they also need to be mindful of security issues. Because board members tend to be quite busy people, finding time for preliminary discussions is as important as it is difficult. As anyone with board management experience knows, the key to running an efficient board meeting lies in the planning and preparation that takes place in the days and weeks leading up to the meeting itself. Ideally, board members should always have all of the factual information they need before the meeting starts and be ready to discuss higher-level questions, which is why making sure there is a secure forum for board members to discuss the information and clarify any questions they might have beforehand is vital for ensuring that meeting time is used as efficiently as possible. One of the most common complaints about board meetings is that valuable time gets wasted making sure everyone is up-to-date on the issues being discussed that could have been spent debating motions and planning for the organization’s future. At the same time, some of the most popular electronic communications tools, such as Jook SMS and Gmail, are notoriously susceptible to hacking. This makes them a risky way to hold discussions ahead of a board meeting and often leads board managers into a double-bind: the tools that their members are most comfortable with and most likely to use in preliminary discussions also pose serious threats to the organization’s security. So how can boards strike a balance between facilitating good conversation while also maintaining security? One of the most popular solutions to both of these problems is board portal software. Companies like Vancouver’s Aprio have developed software that allows board members to share and discuss information through a secure electronic portal that they can access from their mobile device or desktop computer. Portal software not only makes it easy for the board manager to deliver all of the necessary documentation to board members before the meeting begins, it also provides the members with an intuitive, easy-to-navigate way of accessing the documents from anywhere in the world. The portal software also streamlines governance by making everything that board members need available in a single place. Instead of having to scroll through email threads to find the right documents, and potentially getting into inefficient discussions about which version of the document is most up-to-date, with portal software members literally have all the information they need at their fingertips. Board portal software can play a major role in helping boards communicate more effectively, and by giving board members a chance to do more of their work in advance they can drastically improve the efficiency of board meetings. With better communication comes better decision-making, and it is no surprise that some of the most innovative businesses in North America have turned to board portal software to create stronger, more networked leadership and improve board governance. Read also: 6 Things You Should Know Before Starting A Business

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Pregnancy Foods

The Top 10 Best Foods to Eat in Early Pregnancy

Good news ladies, pregnant women need to eat an extra 350 to 500 calories each day. Finally, a valid excuse to eat more! With that statistic in mind, we thought it would be a good idea to reveal to you the best foods to eat in early pregnancy. That way, you'll be able to use this surplus of calories to both you and your babies advantage. So, without further ado, let's dive in! 1. Beans and Lentils : If you're looking to nurture your 14 weeks pregnant belly, we recommend eating plenty of beans and lentils. These foods are a fabulous source and protein, and pregnant women need an extra 10 grams of protein each day. Therefore, beans and lentils make an excellent addition to your diet because they contain as much as 15 grams of protein per cup! If you're unsure how to use them, we suggest adding cooked lentils and beans to your salads and rice dishes. These are sure to be a tasty addition! 2. Broccoli : Now, broccoli isn't always everyone's favorite food. However, it's worth bearing with because it's packed full of nutrients such as calcium and folate. In addition to this, it's high in fiber and vitamin C which is essential for helping your body absorb iron. Therefore, the best time to eat broccoli is when you accompany it with iron-rich food like lean red meat or wholegrain pasta. Plus, broccoli is rich in antioxidants, which promote healthy digestion and strengthen your immune system (which is obviously even more critical when you're pregnant). Also, if you're struggling with constipation (which is exceptionally common among pregnant women), broccoli is a must because of its high fiber content. Really and truly, broccoli is the perfect pregnancy food! 3. Bananas : Bananas are a brilliant snack for pregnant women. Not only does the potassium help combat fatigue, but they're also kind on the stomach if you're suffering from morning sickness. 4. Lean Meat : Just like protein levels, pregnant women also need to increase their iron intake. The volume of their blood increases, which causes them to need double the amount of iron. Therefore we suggest eating plenty of lean meat as this provides a form of iron that's quickly absorbed by the body. Good examples of these include: Beef Pork Chicken In addition to iron, these meats typically contain choline and vitamin B, both of which pregnant women need more of. 5. Oatmeal : There's no better to start your day than by eating a bowl of nutritious cereal. The complex carbohydrates in oatmeal will leave you feeling fuller for longer, and this breakfast will help lower your cholesterol levels--win-win! Top Tip: Don't buy processed oatmeals that are full of sugars and additives. Instead, cook yourself the plain variety and add a dollop of jelly. Yummy! 6. Leafy Greens : When you cook the following greens: Spinach Kale Turnip greens You release higher levels of iron and folate. In addition to this, they're also a fabulous source of calcium, vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin A, and potassium. We suggest sprinkling a few of these leafy greens in your pasta dishes, adding them to soups, or substituting iceberg lettuce for them in your salads. 7. Whole-Grain Bread : The simple swap from white to whole grain can make a massive difference when you're pregnant. By doing this, you ensure you get your daily intake of fiber. Ideally, you want to ensure that each slice contains at least two grams of fiber before you commit to purchasing the loaf. Plus, wholemeal bread also provides you with both iron and zinc, which are both essential nutrients for pregnant women! 8. Oranges : Oranges are an excellent fruit to eat while you're pregnant. They're full of the following goodies: Vitamin C Folate Fiber Water Now the water might not sound like a massive deal, but these fruits are almost 90% liquid, which is excellent for keeping you hydrated and combatting fatigue. 9. Nuts and Nut Butters : Healthy fats are critical for your baby's brain development, so we suggest eating one ounce of nuts a day and two tablespoons of nut butter. Plus, these snacks will help keep you full! Top Tip: if you suffer from any kind of allergy, we suggest steering clear of highly allergenic foods such as nuts while you're pregnant. Some scientists believe that exposing the baby to foods like this during pregnancy could increase their risk of developing a more severe allergy during childhood. 10. Sweet Potatoes : Sweet potatoes are full of a nutrient called beta-carotene. When we digest it, we transform it into vitamin A. This is fabulous for mothers to be because Vitamin A helps the fetus' cells grow and differentiate from one another. Top Tip: pregnant women are usually advised to stay away from high levels of animal-based vitamin A because these can sometimes be dangerous when eaten to excess. This is another reason why foods that contain beta-carotene are essential to include in your pregnancy diet. Best Foods to Eat in Early Pregnancy: Final Thoughts It's important for women to swot up on the best foods to eat in early pregnancy because your dietary requirements change a little. However, by sticking to diets high in protein, iron, and fiber, you shouldn't go too far wrong! If you enjoyed this article, we're confident you'll love the other features published on our family and parenting blog. Over there we discuss everything from pregnancy care tips to family leave. Enjoy! Alternatively, if you have any questions about this subject, please feel free to drop us a line. We love to hear from our readers! Just fill out the simple contact form, and we'll get back to you as soon as we can. Speak soon! Read Also : Choosing The Best Mattress That Will Make Mothers Comfortable During Pregnancy Golden Pregnancy Care Tips For All Expectant Women 9 Tips For Staying Fit And Healthy During Pregnancy

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Car maintenance

5 Signs Your Car Needs a Tune Up

Owning a car is like being the parent of a small child when it comes to maintenance. There may be something going on, but the child is not able to tell us. Like babies, cars don't speak English. We know toddlers can upchuck some pretty uncommon-looking stuff. Then, words are no longer necessary. And, your vehicle can cough up troubles from its insides, too. Warning lights, sputtering, and sticky shifting may tell us there's a problem. And, there are other signs such as uneven tire wear. This may mean suspension problems, according to Mick's Automotive experts. Cars and SUV's need more maintenance than ever. This is thanks to modern electronics and computers. So, a basic tune-up evolves with each new model. But, the signs your car needs a tune-up does not require a software engineer. We learn with time what our kids, and our cars, need. Learning to recognize symptoms that you need a mechanic is easier than most people think. Here's when it's time to get a tune-up for your car: It Doesn't Want to Start : On icy mornings, both you and your car can be slow to get going. But, if your car is doing the same on warm mornings or after warming up on a cold day, there is a problem. It may need a few adjustments. Slow starts could signal a fuel line issue or a simple battery replacement. Of course, on the other end of the spectrum may be a new starter. But, none of these problems will go away. At some point, it won't start at all. And, you will likely kick yourself (as you are stranded) if a simple tune-up is an answer. It Stalls Out at Stops : Stalls are not only annoying but can be dangerous. Pooping out in the middle of an intersection is never good. You're a sitting duck. You'll be lucky if anyone will stop to push you to safety. Merging into moving traffic, then stalling, can leave you vulnerable, too. Loss of power is a sign your car is not getting adequate fuel or oxygen. Or both. One of the most obvious signs of needing a tune-up on your car is when it stops too often. Powerlessness could signal it needs a new air filter, fuel line cleaning, or spark plugs. If your car loses power for too long, you'll pay a hefty price. Not just for repairs, but your fuel efficiency is tanking, also. In this case, a thorough tune-up starts paying you back right away. There's a High-Pitched Squeal From Under the Hood : Both annoying and embarrassing, the piercing noise may have a few causes. When you get a tune-up, the mechanic will check belts, hoses, and fluids. If your last checks were a while back, your car is going to continue to screech at you until you bring it in. The culprit may be low steering fluid or a belt that is past its end date. If the noise is present as you drive, it may be a tire needing balancing. All these are easy fixes. A more complicated problem may be the CV joint objecting as it wears out. Either way, there's no louder sign of when to get a tune-up for your car. Gas Mileage Has Gone Way Down : Frequent fill-ups may not be the clearest sign your car needs help. But, if your mileage has gone way below average, there is something wrong. If you have a teenager at home, check for late-night joy rides. If not, then have a mechanic do a routine tune-up and check for more severe problems. Keep in mind that a stuck brake pad may be the issue. Or, low tire pressure. If the abnormal mileage is a sudden occurrence, it is likely something simple. It Hesitates When Passing Other Cars : No acceleration when you need it can be yet another dangerous problem. If you attempt to pass and your car can't, other drivers get angry, too. You will get more than a hard stare in some cases. And, there may be a few different reasons. If it is an issue of power, then your car is telling you something is missing. It is likely a lack of fuel, oxygen, or electrical energy. With regular tune-ups, this should not happen. The other issue may well be the transmission. If you find your car does not have a smooth shift or hesitates before going into high gear, something's wrong. As your car's engine needs a regular check, so do transmissions. There are components like fluid, screens, and filters. Any of these may need attention. The longer you wait, the more parts (and cash) you may need. Read the Owner's Manual for Signs Your Car Needs a Tune-Up : If you don't have your owner's manual, get one. This book is the best guide for telling what parts need upgrades and when. Newer models do not need a tune-up until they reach 100,000 miles. Older models need one more often. And, for significant work to keep a transmission at its best, the manual offers a timeline. We all know people whose car has a couple of hundred thousand miles on it, and it runs like a top. Chances are their maintenance records, and owner's manual is as clean as their engine. Looking For More Information? We have great stuff on everything from signs your car needs a tune-up to health and fitness. Check out our blog for more information that makes your life easier. Have an idea or input on a blog? Contact us here. We love hearing from our readers! Read Also : Why The Vauxhall Insignia Should Be Your Next Car Choosing The Right Anti-Theft Devices For Your Car In Houston TX 5 Benefits Of Car Title Loans And One Important Warning

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baby sleeps

Things to do before bed for a perfect night’s sleep

Good sleep is usually described as how a baby sleeps. A baby is likely to enjoy quality sleep because they have no worries or anything that could hinder that perfect sleep. However, as you grow up, sleep quality tends to deteriorate because of different factors associated with adulthood. It is very important to have enough and good sleep as it has a significant effect on your body in terms of health and general activeness. You need to adopt the habit of sleeping early and having uninterrupted sleep time for about 7-9 hours every night. What should you do before bed to have a good night's sleep? Tidy your room. Study shows that people with clean and decluttered rooms tend to sleep better than those whose rooms are untidy and unkempt. Make your bed, fold your clothes and keep your room in order. Finish up your daily chores. Once the day is over, you should have finished everything you had planned for that day. Wash that blue cantilever umbrella you had planned to by the end of the day. By doing so, your mind will be able to relax when you get into bed. Eat dinner early. Most people will have their meals so late in the night that they end up sleeping late. It is better to eat early so that you can give the food time to digest. Doing that will actually help you sleep better. Make your bed comfortable. This includes changing your bedsheets into clean ones and getting the right sized pillow and mattress. You should also get s blanket that will shield you from the cold at night and is soft to your body as well. Take a warm bath. This helps to cool off your body and prepare it for sleep. Bathing with warm water will get your body temperature going down when you step into the cool bedroom from the shower. That helps induce sleep. Set the room temperature. You do not want a room that is too hot to sleep in or too cold that you cannot sleep. Regulate the temperature to what you feel is comfortable for you. Organize your thoughts. Going to bed with a lot of unorganized thoughts will keep you up for hours. Make sure you write down anything disturbing you and try to find a solution before you can sleep for better sleep quality. Switch off electronics. Things like phones, laptops, and TV should be switched off 2 hours to sleeping time. The blue light produced by these gadgets is not so good for your eyes when you want to sleep. Eat cherries. As I said, you should not eat right before bed. However, you can snack on some cherries as they are natural sources of melatonin which is a sleep-inducing hormone. Block any light from outside. You could switch off your electronics but there is still light coming from the outside. Total darkness is the recipe for sleep. Use dark and heavy curtains to block any light coming from the outside. Read a book. This is a good way to spend the last minutes before bed. Make sure the book does not require a lot of intellectual engagement and neither is it too exciting to take away your sleep. Listen to soothing music. There are people who cannot sleep in total silence. If you're one of these people, get some soothing music and play it in low tones right before you sleep. Spray some lavender scent into your room. Lavender is associated with having a calming and sedentary effect on you. It will help you sleep much faster and better. Conclusion : Don't deny yourself the opportunity to sleep better by ignoring some of these things that are necessary for a good night's sleep. In fact, these things are very easy to do and they can have a tremendously positive effect on your sleep life. Observe each one of them and make it a routine before you go to bed. Within a month or so, your body will have adapted to the change and you won't have to keep a reminder anymore. You'll be doing these things naturally. Invest in good sleep and your body will thank you for it. Make sure that everything is done to your preference for an easy time. Read Also : 5 Ways To Make A Big Statement In Small Bedroom 3 Tips On How To Plan The Best Cheap And Fabulous DIY Bedroom Makeover 5 Innovative Ideas To Lend Your Bedroom With More Space

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Visit Cab

Some of the Top Attractions in Pune You Should Visit by Cab

Pune is one of the most thriving metropolis and second-largest city in Maharashtra. It is presently an academic and business hub for the modern generation. Situated on a hilly geographical terrain of the Sahyadri hills, Pune has a pleasant climate and a cosmopolitan culture that make it an attractive tourist destination. The road trip along the Mumbai Pune expressway is very thrilling as you cross magnificent forts and enchanting waterfalls. Pune has been the cultural capital of Maharashtra with an emphasis on theatre, art, music, and education. The presence of museums, parks gardens, multiplexes, malls and pubs along with forts, palaces and museums portray the multiethnic personality of the city. One may make an online cab booking in Pune and take the guidance of local guides to get around the famous tourist attractions of the city. Main Attractions in Pune : Several interesting places in Pune can be visited by travelers. One can make an online taxi booking in Pune to visit the landmark Shanivar Vada that was built by Peshwa Baji Rao. This palace has fortified gateways, majestic walls, and ramparts of wooden pillars. A light and sound show is held in the evening in the Marathi language. The Aga Khan Palace is an impressive building that must be visited by history buffs. Photos and paintings of Mahatma Gandhi are exhibited in this Mahatma National Memorial. Prominent nationalist leaders were imprisoned here during the British rule. The Osho Ashram in Koregaon Park is a peaceful haven for meditation. Massages, workshops, theatres, and events are held for its visitors who can interact with international members of the ashram. The Singhabad Fort situated atop the Bhuleswar hill which is a trekkers delight. Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum has a good collection of 17th-century miniatures, pottery items and other antiques from Mughal and Maratha times that might interest history lovers. You get a classic glimpse of the Hindu culture during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival celebrated with great pomp and show at the Daduseth Halwai Ganpati temple. The Chaturshringi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Chatursinghi that is quite popular among the locals. The Parvati Hill is visited for its temple bearing a private shrine of the Peshwa rulers. Don’t forget the Parvati Museum that has an ancient manuscript collection. History lovers will take great enthusiasm in the 8th-century rock-cut cave temple of Pataleshwar dedicated to Lord Shiva. One can marvel at the Anglo Rajasthani architectural style of the memorial of Mahadji Shinde at Shinde Chhatri. Photography of the sunset can be best captured at the Saras Bag where one can spend lazy evenings. Migratory birds are found aplenty at the Bund Garden, and a boat ride in the Katraj Lake of Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Garden can be very relaxing. An online taxi booking in Pune for a self-drive car gives one the freedom to go shopping for baked goods on MG Road, click pictures of Pune from the Shivaji Bridge, and enjoy an authentic Maharashtrian breakfast at the famous joints. Exploring the city By Cab : Various self-drive cab services are available along with online taxi booking in Pune that makes sightseeing an unforgettable experience for travelers who want to explore the city from close quarters. A self- drive cab service scores over conventional taxis as it offers privacy, safety, freedom and much more at very competitive prices. Read Also : Moving To Another Country Alone: How It Can Change Your Life

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games for teen girls

7 inexpensive games for teen girls

Teen girls love to play games that are fun and creative. You can visit Dimble Games to play a variety of exciting online games. Check out these seven inexpensive games for teen girls. 1. Fashion Model 2018- Rising Star Girl : This game is for all the fashionistas out there who have a great sense of style. This is a cool dress up game including glamour, celebrities, and supermodels. Fashion Model 2018- Rising Star Girl can be played by girls of any age, but it is especially popular among teenage girls. The game has six dolls of different races, each beautiful you have 8 backgrounds and many hairstyles, dresses, jeweler, shoes to choose from. You can create a unique and stylish outfit for each doll. Take a screenshot of your doll through the camera button and show your styling to your friends and family. 2. Princess Salon: Frozen Party : This is a Frozen-themed game where you are Aria, a girl who travels to the middle ages by a mysterious force. While exploring, Aria sees a castle where she can meet anyone. As soon as she meets the princess, the princess invites Aria to a party. But first, you must give Aria a makeover, so she looks party-ready. You can even decorate your own snowman and make it look unique. 3. Strawberry Shortcake BerryRush : Strawberry and her friends want to bake delicious cakes, and you are going to help them do that. Get all the delicious fruits you can find in the world of Berry Bitty City. You can decorate your cake and take a screenshot of it to show your friends. This is a perfect game for teenage girls who love to bake. You can also dress your character with tons of cute outfits. 4. Live Portrait Makers: Girls  Create your own fashionable, animated girl. You get 55 facial features and 26 outfits from which you can choose. This is a creative and addicting game and has amazing effects. You can create the type of look you want. 5. How To Draw Food EZ : This game teaches you how to draw 30 cute food characters. Grab a pencil and paper, and choose the character you want to draw and follow the step by step drawing instructions. Girls who love to draw would enjoy this game as the characters are super cute and adorable. 6. Alto’s Adventure : Girls who love adventure games, this is for you. It has physics-based gameplay that is easy to learn. Join Alto and his friends and embark on an endless snowboarding odyssey. As you journey through the beautiful hills and ancient woodlands, you have to grind the rooftops and leap over terrifying chasms. 7. Penguin Diner : Penny the Penguin is lost in an unknown land and wants to go home. Help Penny earn enough money so she can go back. You get to play through exciting diners and get cool upgrades in the shop. The game also has an interesting comic-style storyline. All these games can be played for free by downloading them through the app store. However, these games do have in-app purchases, if you wish to make any. Read Also : Top Torrent Sites For Games Download Racing Games And Accidents; Is There A Link? Playing Lottery Games Online From Home On Your Computer Or Mobile Phone

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Opiates

A Loved One Addicted to Opiates? Here Are Common Signs

If you've been paying attention to the news, you already know that the opioid crisis in the United States has reached critical mass. In some areas, opioid overdoses increased by 70 percent in just over a year's time. The opioid epidemic now touches the lives of millions of everyday Americans. As a result, the chances that you know someone with opioid addiction have increased astronomically. For anyone concerned that their loved one might have a problem, it's important to recognize the early warning signs of opiate use. That's what this article is for. Below, you'll learn a few basic things to look for when trying to determine if a loved one has an opiate problem. With any luck, you won't need this information, but preparedness and awareness are always important. Physical Signs of Opiate Use : When dealing with opioid abuse, there are two major categories symptoms can fall into: physical and behavioral. Let's tackle the former first. One major and obvious physical warning sign to look for is needle marks. Often, an addict will start to use drugs intravenously, which means they're injecting it. This will usually leave clear signs of use at the injection point, which is very often the major artery in the arm. Beyond the clear physical appearance of abuse, addicts will often suffer from other physical ailments. One prominent side effect is "nodding," which means that the user falls asleep suddenly and at inappropriate times. If your loved one frequently drifts off mid-conversation, this can be a sign there is a more serious problem under the surface. Other than the two unmistakable signs above, physical signs of opioid use are hard to spot. Other symptoms like constricted pupils and flushed skin can be attributed to many other things, so it's best not to worry about them alone. However, if they're paired with needle marks and nodding, there is cause for concern. Behavioral Signs of Opiate Use : The behavioral side effects of opioid abuse can be tough to spot because they closely resemble side effects caused by other common ailments like depression, stress, and anxiety. But since they're so often paired with physical signs, you'll most likely be able to tell the difference. Withdrawing from social activities is a big early warning sign. If your loved one suddenly retreats from social groups or things they once enjoyed doing, it can be a sign of a much bigger problem. Isolation is one of the earliest and most clear indicators that something is up. Mood swings and drastic behavior are also something to look for. If someone is acting highly out of character, breaking the law, and engaging in unusually high-risk behavior, something is probably wrong. All in all, behavioral shifts can be hard to hone in on, but drastic changes are almost certainly a sign of something worse. Even if it isn't an opioid addiction, it's always worth checking in with a loved one if their behavior changes unexpectedly. There are treatment centers like SMC Recovery that specialize in opiate addiction rehabilitation. Reaching out to a facility such as this can provide you with the resources and expertise you need to determine if your loved one requires medical follow-up. What's Next? Now that you're familiar with some basic signs of opiate use, you can stay vigilant when it comes to keeping loved ones safe. Addiction is a notoriously difficult problem, but there's always hope. People recover every day. If you or a loved one has an opiate problem, don't give up. With the help of professionals, friends, and family, no obstacle is too tall to scale. Stay strong, and with a little help, recovery is well within reach. Follow our blog for more health-related news and updates. Read Also : 5 Reasons Why It’s Not Too Late To Get Help Effects Of Sleep Deprivation On Your Skin & Good Sleeping Habits

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Ear Health

Important Habits to Protect Your Ear Health and Hearing

Hearing loss isn't always something that can be prevented. Sometimes loss of hearing is just something that happens as you get older. But in an increasingly loud and busy world, hearing loss might be caused early or worsened by the environment around you. And once you're hearing is gone, it can be gone for good. Can you imagine life without being able to hear? It's a scary thought for many and should be. And yet, very few of us take the proper precautions in protecting our ears and our hearing. That changes now. If you're committed to the concept of ear health and protecting your hearing, read on. We'll discuss several ways to help ensure that your hearing stays strong and true for many years to come. The Case For Earplugs : You likely rolled your eyes back in your youth when your parents advised you to wear earplugs to that rock and roll concert. But they were on to something. Approximately 15% of Americans lose hearing as a result of too-loud work or leisure environments. If you work or spend lots of time in an environment where the sound level forces you to shout to be able to communicate, it's likely that the sound levels there are dangerously high. This loudness could be due to a concert or club, or even more often, due to some form of loud and consistent machinery. If you know that you spend many hours around this kind of noise level, you should absolutely invest in a good pair of earplugs. Earplugs are easy to obtain, generally affordable, and can even be made individualized for your ears upon request. They can dampen the level of sound coming in from your environment by a significant margin, helping to curb the possible loss of hearing. Keep The Volume Low : According to the World Health Organization, over a billion people each year are at risk of hearing loss due to the unsafe use of audio devices. Earbuds, like the popular headphones designed by Apple, are especially dangerous for ear health as they fit directly into the eardrum. If you're a music lover, you probably spend a lot of time listening to music on headphones. If you care about the health of your ears, though, you should make an effort to keep the volume at a lower level. Doctors recommend a philosophy they've dubbed the 60/60 rule. The rule is a recommendation that you listen to music through headphones at 60% volume for less than 60 minutes a day for the benefit of your hearing. Even when not listening to headphones, you should aim to keep music played at a normal level to ensure long-lasting ear health. Avoid Cotton Swabs : One of the most common items in any household bathroom cabinet is a jar of cotton swabs. These little tools have been used by people to clean out ear wax for years and years, but it's only more recently that their nefarious reputation has begun to reach the public. It actually turns out that a little wax in the ears is both healthy and normal. Ears are self-cleaning organs and the wax in your ears actually serves to prevent dust and other particles from entering your eardrum. If you do have excess wax, it is not advisable that you use a cotton swab. You can very easily damage your eardrum by using a cotton swab. Instead, considering using a damp towel to gently clean around the canal. There are also various ear wax solutions that are available in stores. These are applied to the ears overnight and can help to dissolve and soften ear wax so that it can flow out of the inner ear on its own. Keep Your Ears Dry : Another frequent cause of ear damage is extra moisture. Excess moisture can allow bacteria to enter the ear canal and cause serious problems, such as a swimmer's ear or other infections. Following swims at the pool or beach, showers or baths, or any other water-related activity, you should be sure to gently towel-dry your ears. If you can feel the moisture in your ear following swimming or bathing, tilt your head to the side and tug lightly on your eardrum to help water drain out. There are also specially designed swimmer's earplugs available on the market, which can help prevent water from entering your eardrum during a swim. They work great for any age, kids or adults, and can be individually fitted for your ear by a licensed physician. Consider Getting Regular Check-Ups : Especially as you get older, you should ask your physician to incorporate hearing screenings into your regular checkups. Hearing loss doesn't happen in a flash of light, it is a very gradual process. It's recommended, then, that you have yearly consultations with a hearing healthcare professional, who can recognize the signs of hearing loss while it is still in the early stages. Taking action against hearing loss is important, as is discussing it with your doctor. Loss of hearing has been linked to other health concerns such as depression, dementia, and heart disease. Establishing a relationship with your doctor in regards to ear health early on can contribute to better overall health later on. If you do find yourself losing hearing, you should ensure to invest in a proper hearing aid. With all the advances in rechargeable hearing aids over the past few years, they now serve people with hearing impairment much better.  A well-designed hearing aid can help improve the quality of life for someone who has lost hearing and can stave off the other health issues previously mentioned. If you're interested in the best hearing aids on the market, you can learn more here. Read Also : 5 Dental Hygiene Tips For A Healthier Smile Essential Health Benefits Of Coconut Oil Must-Have Appliances For A Healthier Life

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Bikini Trimmer

Useful Tips to Help You Buy the Best Bikini Trimmer

Managing body hairs in sensitive areas can be tricky. Let’s say you want to sport that figure when you head out to the beach. You want to look polished, but some hairs can spoil it for you. As such, you need to go through the best guides that arm you with bikini trimmer buying tips. There is a hill of information about this topic online, and it can be difficult to separate the real stuff from the shallow tips. The good thing about bikini trimmer guides is that they will lead you to a variety of trimmers that fit your needs. It’s important that you factor in your preferences, budget, and lifestyle. Apparently, you need to sift through trimmer reviews and go for one with excellent feedback from other users. The perfect bikini trimmers will come with ergonomic handles that will offer control such that you can maneuver those curves and folds them down there. Buying a bikini trimmer goes past the machine itself. You need to consider the cost of blade replacements, or batteries if it’s a cordless trimmer. You need precision cutting and you should opt for the trimmer whose features enable you to shave with accuracy. What Qualities to Look For? Design: The modern bikini trimmer comes with a range of designs. Away from the fabulous trimmer looks, there is a need to check whether the design specifics match with your needs. Assess whether a given trimmer feels good in your hands and bag. The grip should be excellent. Nobody wants to use a shaver that keeps slipping when you need to be precise. You can opt for straight or curved designs as long as the ergonomics are okay. Bikini trimmer designs and portability go hand in hand. For the ever-mobile woman, the cordless design will suffice. Check whether it can fit your conventional carry pocket. You don’t have to choose the bulky types. Proper research will lead you to a design that is versatile, slim in shape, and with great shaving power. If you don’t want to shave outdoors, the corded, mains power trimmer will suffice. Some bikini trimmers are built with the idea that they can be transformed into an all in one hair clipper device. If you want your trimmer to help you with your eyebrows, check whether there are options to fit in blades that can hack your eyebrows. If not, you can choose a single-use trimmer that is customized to handle more than just bikini shaving. Easy to Maintain and Clean: When you buy a bikini shaver, you want to be sure that it’s easy to maintain the gadget. If you have thick hair, you want the gadget to operate smoothly without issues caused by hair clogging up in some parts. The less the add-on features or ports the better. Remember to choose a trimmer that you can fix on your own. There are low-quality clippers that will keep breaking and require professional attention and money to revive them. Blade Quality: For excellent shaving, check whether the trimmer you buy comes with high-quality stainless steel blades. Who wants to buy trimmers with blades that rust? It can end up posing risks to your sensitive skin. It’s prudent that you consider the trimmer with self-sharpening blades. You don’t have to worry about surgical precision even when your tufts seem troublesome. Waterproof-Wet and Dry Shave: There are individuals who want to shave right after a dip in the pool. If you want to get it done after a shower, you need to have a trimmer that can handle a wet shave. It’s advisable if it’s a double wet and dry shave trimmer. Warranties: Do you want a trimmer that will last and meet the claims that the manufacturer makes? Going for the bikini trimmer that comes with a warranty sounds like a logical idea. In essence, the manufacturer is telling you that they believe in their brand. Don’t fall for cheap trimmers even if the prices are enticing. They will end up costing you more in the long run. Choosing the perfect bikini trimmer is a matter of personal preference and adequate product research. Don’t dive into the purchasing process, when you have no idea about the trimmer that best meets your bikini shaving needs. Read Also: 5 Tips to Give your Hairstyle a Perfect Look What To Know About Laser Hair Removal Utica NY

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Web Host

Top 9 Factors To keep in mind before Choosing A Web Host

Making decisions while choosing your web host can be a tricky one. You may have multiple options with you and most of them claiming to have 99% uptime, knowledgeable support, and unlimited resources. This can cause confusion and there is no way to make an informed decision. After creating a professional website it is equally important to choose the right web hosting company. There may be positive as well as negative feedback about the service provider. To make yourself at ease, you should know that there are few factors by which you can decide on the web host. Even if you are using a VPS service, check if the Windows VPS has the features you need. Let us look at some of these factors. 1. Area of focus and specialties : This is an important aspect while choosing the web host. You need to make sure that the web host caters to your requirements. Some of the web host companies offer good shared plans but these plans do not suit the growing business needs. For some businesses with a small exposure, you may not need the solutions provided. This is where the company`s specialty comes in to play. Before you buy to make sure that you understand your needs and how it will be fulfilled. The reviews and recommendations can also help to understand the strength and weakness of the service provider. 2. Price : This is something that everyone looks at while choosing the web host. This should not be the deciding factor. Going for the cheapest option is not necessarily the best thing always. If you want to make money from your site, make sure that you pay for the right services. Make sure that you think about the factors which can play a role and then take a closer look at the features that each service provider has to offer. Once you have all the features in place then compare the prices of different web host companies. 3. Tech Limitations : Your website can be used for many things. You can use it for a blog, rich content, as an e-commerce site, or host videos. The cheapest hosting package will not cut the deal. The cheap hosting plan will not have the necessary RAM, disk space, and processing power. Some companies may have Technical limitations or limited after-sale support, hence it is important to understand these factors, before buying the plan. 4. Tech Support : This is an important feature which needs to be there when you buy web hosting services. Some people may also consider it as an important point. If your website is affected and goes down, it is important that you should be able to reach out to the company for support. Also, the team should be able to help resolve the issue and get the site back online quickly. You should also be aware of the reputation of the support and how you can contact them when needed. The companies which are not good with Tech support, you should stay away from them. 5. Hardware : You should be aware of the hardware the company has and the kind of machine they use. It is important because it will be the deciding factor when it comes to uptime and the performance of your site and server. 6. Add-Ons : You should be aware of the add-ons a company has to offer. These add-ons will make them more attractive while buying the services. Some of the add-ons can be energy-saving practice, data centers, data back up, and free domain privacy. If these add-ons are something that you may need or have been looking for then it will help you make the decision. 7. Reputation and Customer review : You will have to do some background checks and look into the details of the reviews posted by the earlier customers. Also, you can read the reviews on Twitter or Google.  You can see what the current and earlier customers have to say about the service provider. This is the best add-on of social media and you can even know about the company by asking more questions. You can get responses from the people and the company employees as well. 8. Scalability : This is something that you will have to keep in mind. It is important because if in future your business grows, does the hosting provider have adequate plans to support the growth. If the hosting company is good for now, it is not necessary that it will work in the future. You should look at the options if the company has VPS or Dedicated Server solutions to support the growth. Get some opinions about the scalability of the company, before you move ahead with the purchase. 9. User Interface : Having a User interface is a bonus. Even if you do not understand technology much, a user interface will help you with a lot of things. It gives you the option to install WordPress, set up emails, and accounts. These things can be done without reaching out to the service provider. Conclusion : The importance of hosting your website with the correct company is critical. Take your time and review different companies. Use all the resources and understand all the aspects, before you purchase the plan. Read Also : Things You Should Know About Web Host Providers What Makes A Web Hosting Good? Cloud Hosting: Top Five Reasons To Take Your Business To The Cloud

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Animal Shelter

8 High-Need Animal Shelter Donations

Every year, there are more than 6 million animals all across the country that end up in animal shelters. Most of these shelters are staffed by volunteers who rely on the donations of others to keep the shelters up and running. Without these animal shelter donations, the volunteers wouldn't be able to do their jobs and care for the animals that come through their front doors. Do you want to donate items that could potentially make a huge difference and allow shelters to give animals the TLC they need? If so, animal shelters have a long list of items they need on a regular basis. Here are 8 animal shelter donations you should consider dropping off at the shelter in your area. 1. Pet Food : This might be one of the more obvious animal shelter donations. But it's still worth mentioning because shelters simply can't have enough extra food hanging around. There are new dogs and cats coming into the average shelter every day. And from the moment they arrive, they have to be fed regularly so that they get the right nutrition. If you have extra dog food lying around in your home and it hasn't expired yet, you should consider calling your local animal shelter to see if they have a need for it. Just make sure the food hasn't been opened. Shelters won't be able to use opened bags or cans of food. 2. Dog Beds : In addition to providing dogs and cats with food upon their arrival, they also need to provide them with a place to sleep. Many dogs and cats that are turned into animal shelters haven't gotten a good night's rest in quite some time. Therefore, you should consider making animal shelter donations that include dog beds and beds for cats. They will really come in handy when dogs and cats are set up at animal shelters for days, weeks, or months at a time. 3. Litter : Kitty litter is one of the other items that animal shelters are always on the lookout for. From the moment cats step foot inside of a shelter, they need to have access to clean litter to handle their business. If possible, you should make sure your animal shelter donations include clumping litter that will be easy for shelter volunteers to clean up. You should also consider adding a litter box to the mix if your shelter needs one. It's a good idea to get in touch with a shelter ahead of time to see if they have a specific litter they prefer to use. Animal shelters will be ecstatic if you're able to provide them with fresh litter for their feline friends. 4. Blankets and Towels : Blankets and towels are a necessity whenever you're caring for animals at a shelter. They can be used for cleaning up messes or setting up a quiet space for the animals to rest. Either way, shelter volunteers will definitely find good uses for your blankets and towels. They don't have to be new, either! In fact, you're better off donating older blankets and towels to animal shelters that you don't need anymore. These items often don't have much value when you donate them elsewhere. But at an animal shelter, they'll come in handy in a variety of different ways. 5. Zip-Lock Bags : One of the keys to running a successful animal shelter is keeping everything organized. From food to treats to toys, you want to keep items where they belong. Zip-lock bags will help your local shelter do just that. So if you have a bunch of Zip-lock bags sitting in your house right now, you should donate them to a shelter. Shelter volunteers will be able to keep everything straight when they have places to put the things they use on a regular basis. 6. Pill Pockets : The Humane Society and other organizations insist on shelter animals receiving the best medical care possible at shelters. Often times, this means that dogs and cats have to take medications during their shelter stays. The problem, of course, is that many of them won't willingly take these medications. Pill pockets make it possible for shelter volunteers to give dogs and cats their medications without a problem. One box of pill pockets can last for a long time and make it easier than ever for animals to get the medications they need. 7. Kongs : As you can probably imagine, dogs that are placed in animal shelters can get very bored over time. They can, as a result, get themselves into trouble by chewing on things they shouldn't. Kongs are a great solution to this problem. Shelter volunteers can place treats into Kongs and provide dogs with hours and hours of fun. Shelters are always looking for large Kongs since they usually have a lot of larger dogs in their care. When you donate even just one Kong, you'll provide a dog with the entertainment it needs in a shelter. 8. Cleaning Supplies : Keeping an animal shelter clean is of the utmost importance. Shelters usually fly through cleaning supplies on a daily basis. You can make things easier on them by donating: Disinfectant wipes Bleach Powdered laundry detergent Dish soap Paper towels And more If you're not sure about which cleaning supplies would be best for your local animal shelter, give them a call and ask. They would probably be more than happy to let you know which supplies they use most often. You can help keep your local shelter a lot cleaner by setting them up with the supplies they need. Make Your Animal Shelter Donations Today : When you make animal shelter donations, you'll be helping both the animals in the shelters as well as the volunteers who give up their time to work in them. You'll feel great about yourself and know that you did what you could to help the animals even if you couldn't adopt them. Animal shelters rely on people like you to allow them to assist as many animals as possible. Check out our blog for other lifestyle tips that will help you become a better person.

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Electric Mattress

What You Need to Know About Electric Mattress Pad

There isn’t much about heating mattress pads on the Internet. At least, not the ones that provide proper guidance and explanations about the electric mattress pad. But here, we’d like to show you everything you need to know and how to make your choice between a heating mattress pad and blanket. Let’s start with a brief introduction to most electric mattress pads. Just a brief reminder that this guide may not apply to all kinds of electric mattress pads and it may differ from one to another. Introduction : In order to stay comfortable and warm throughout winter nights, electric mattress pads can be of great importance. They create a warm haven for you before you sleep. Can you remember the shivers you experience from climbing on a freezing bed? That’s the kind of thing an electric mattress pad eliminates. A single electric mattress pad uses 60-90 watts per side. That’s equal to 120-180 watts for both sides and cost around 2-3 cents if put on for the whole night. The cost can differ between states and country. Typically, people prefer to buy electric blankets when they are faced with the choice. A blanket keeps you warm while insulating the heat in your body. We’ll delve a bit more into this topic later in this article. Is It Safe? The first question that many people are concerned about when it comes to electrical mattresses, pads or blankets is whether they are safe. Having electrical current running under you for the next 8 hours when you’re unconscious can sound scary. Moreover, there has been a circulating rumor that electrical blankets and pads can cause cancer. Let’s dismiss the myth and understand the real problem of heating mattress pads. The Myth about Cancer : The rumor that electrical mattress pads can cause cancer isn’t new. A lot of people decided to stop using them altogether because they fear that this rumor is true. Some people even believe them to be very true and zealously preach it. Here’s the fact: multiple studies have been done to investigate if this is true or not. So far, we know that electrical blankets and mattresses emit small electromagnetic waves and the real question lies in whether this small current can cause that big of a problem. Studies were done on electric blankets, which are more commonly used. Two studies featured by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), particularly on elder and younger women, showed that there is no positive correlation between breast cancer and the use of an electric blanket. Another different NCBI study creates a conclusion that there is no evidence to support that the use of electric blankets can exacerbate endometrial cancer. Fire Hazard : A lot of people ask if an electric mattress pad can become the cause of a fire at home. There are usually 3 factors that will lead to a fire. The first would be an external flame. If you set it on fire, it will be on fire. The second would be an overheating system. If the weather is warm enough, don’t turn on the AC and then make that into a reason to use your mattress pad. In the case that during the night, your AC fails to perform and your pad starts heating up, it may cause a fire. The third would be a faulty product or exposed wire. In this case, the damaged wires are exposed to the mattress pad without the insulation. It will cause a fire if not turned off right away. Heat Stroke : There have been a couple of heatstroke cases with electric blankets. While this may not be as dangerous or intense with mattress pads, it’s worth remembering to control the temperature of your mattress pad. Rather than turning the dial to the max just to get it warm quick, set it in a lower mode earlier to warm up the bedding. Pregnant Women, Be Careful : So far, a study on pregnant women that sleep with electric blanket and mattress does not show an increased rate of spontaneous abortion. However, it does suggest an increased rate of pregnancy loss during the early stage of pregnancy or conception. It's Effect on Your Mattress : There’s no correct answer to this. The use of a heating pad can or cannot affect your mattress. Each manufacturer has different suggestions for its users to ensure they enjoy the maximum benefits. However, there are several things to consider. Memory foam without gel naturally traps heat once you’re on the bed. It’s one of their unique qualities resulting from its highly dense structure. If you do not like cold brick feel when you get on the bed, raising up the thermostat before entering the bedroom and dialing it down when you sleep will work great. There are manufacturers that will tell you their memory foam mattress won’t last long with a heating pad and to do this instead. The bigger population believes that there is some sort of negative effect when you use an electric mattress pad on your memory foam. All the money that you invested will go down the drain if you put an extra layer on top of it. There are even smaller groups that believe the extra heat will not do good to your mattress. No known problem is seen with using a heating mattress pad on a latex foam mattress, so go ahead and use it. All the Different Features : Different manufacturers have different mattress pad designs. They depend on your preferences and also flexibility as well as cost. Comfort : The comfort we’re talking about is whether you can feel the cords on your back or not. Some electric pads are very thick and you can feel the lines of the cords running through your back. It can be uncomfortable and distracting when you’re about to sleep. If you’re asking whether it’ll prevent you from experiencing the comfort of your original mattress, don’t worry. Most of the time, it doesn’t affect that much and you won’t be able to feel the difference if you choose a high-quality mattress pad. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a heating pad that is also meant to replace the top of your mattress, you want to look for the ones with more padding. Several brands offer their electrical mattress pad with 9 ounces of padding to ensure comfort and you won’t feel any discomfort. Cords and Wires : We have to be extra safe when we’re talking about putting a pad under us that’s running on electricity throughout the night. Several electric mattress pads make it important to ensure that the power outlet is properly attached by designing a locking mechanism. It keeps the plug fit and locked and helps you sleep better with fewer worries about it. Before buying, check out the reviews to see if there are any complaints on faulty wires or fire incidents. Such things can happen when you buy the product through delivery mode, which may mean that the damage could happen during transport. Before using, ensure that all the cords and wires are still in perfect condition. There shouldn’t be any tear marks or exposed wires. Test the mattress pad before sleeping to ensure that there is no smoke or unusual things with your pad. Remove it immediately if you notice anything wrong. Flexibility : Different manufacturers, such as LatexBear, offer different types of heating options on their mattress. Some come with dials that offer various range of modes, temperature, and other features. Others may come with more limited options but still focuses on heating up the mattress for you. Read Also : The Best Memory Foam Mattresses For Staying Cool This Summer Five Easy Steps When Cleaning Your Mattress How To Choose Mattress For Overweight Person

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