Published on: 15 May 2021
Last Updated on: 02 January 2025
Holidays and other special days provide an excellent opportunity to show the ones we love how much we care. Sometimes this means taking our family member or sweetheart out for a special meal or buying them a gift that we know they’ll find thoughtful.
That being said, there are some holidays, like Mother’s Day, that come with the perfect gift traditions baked right in. Mother’s Day usually means buying your mom a gorgeous bouquet of flowers.
You’d think that having a great gift tradition associated with Mother’s Day would make things easier, but that’s not always true. After all, if you’ve been getting a bouquet for your mom every Mother’s Day, you might want to get a unique gift or a more special floral arrangement every once in a while.
Well, did you know that you can actually consult with your florist about the type of blooms you’d like in your Mother’s Day bouquet? It’s true. If you’re thinking of speaking to a local florist about taking your Mother’s Day gift-giving to the next level, here are a few questions that are good to ask.
Which blooms send a personal message?
You might not know this, but flower arrangements have a rich history of symbolism, especially in the Victorian era, and it’s worth looking into as you figure out the details of your bouquet.
For example, orchids represent beauty and love, while tulips represent passion. Daylilies are emblematic of motherhood, while daisies symbolize innocence and hope and pink roses show devotion. One way to take your bouquet to the next level is to look into the history of sending a personal message by using specific blooms and incorporate those you want into the floral arrangement.
Ask your florist if they have experience working with the Victorian method of using beautiful flowers to send messages. Incorporating this lost art into your Mother’s Day flower arrangement makes for an even more thoughtful gift than just buying a dozen roses.
Does it matter if I choose a vase or not?
Most florists will offer the option of adding a vase to your Mother’s Day gift, even if you’re working with a flower delivery service.
However, different vase types cost different amounts. It’s worth considering whether your mom would want a vase and if it’s worth the money.
If your local florist offers a vase to add to your flower delivery, make sure that you ask if there’s an additional fee. If you do end up opting for a vase, make sure it’s in a style that your mom would like. After all, that vase will stick around long after Mother’s Day has passed.
Are the blooms you use locally sourced?
This is an important question if you’re concerned about climate change (which you should be). Did you know that many of the floral arrangements we send today are actually shipped and flown from far-flung places around the world?
Even the most popular flowers that you see being sold at local supermarkets and mini-markets are often sourced from far away locations and grown in wasteful facilities. Not to mention the major energy waste that comes with shipping carnations and daisies across the ocean.
Buying local blooms for your Mother’s Day floral arrangement both supports the local economy and helps to stop climate change, so you should definitely ask your florist about the source of those pink tulips you may be eyeing.
Making your mom smile is the best feeling in the world, and a floral gift may be the best way to go about it. If you’re thinking about a unique gift that’s a little different this year, consider asking your florist these questions. Either way, your mom is sure to appreciate the thought you put into her Mother’s Day flowers, which is the point, after all.
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Emergency survival tools are all the things that can help people get by in a time of need. When you are trying to be prepared, you must take some time to understand what each tool is for. You want to know how to use it so that you can be as prepared as possible. That way if you should need it, you will have it readily available. This article will give you some ideas on what you can carry to have with you in times of need.
Here are what emergency survival tools should you have with you:
Fire Starter Kit
The first emergency survival tool is probably the simplest. A fire starter is a small tool that can easily be carried around and used in a pinch. They can be used in several ways and can be very useful in times of emergency. They can be put into batteries or you can use the solar ones, which come in handy during the summer. If you do have a solar battery, this is a great idea. This will allow you to use them year-round and they will cost you very little money.
A fire starter is something that many people, especially men, have around the house. There are many types of starters, but the ones that you will find in most stores are not of the best quality. I would suggest looking for a better starter to make sure you do not have any problems with your fire and that you will be safe from any potential fires. A good fire starter will help you out in many ways, starting fires is not one of them. Hopefully, this article will help you and give you some ideas on what you should look for in a fire starter or check out Survivaltechie.com for more tips.
Flashlight
Another tool that is great for emergencies is a flashlight. In most cases, most flashlights are small and foldable and can be easily carried around. A flashlight can be a lifesaver during a night out or in a time of trouble. You can also buy one of the more expensive flashlights that will have many more features than the cheap ones. Flashlights come in a variety of different shapes and sizes and they come in all different colors and styles. Many of the newer flashlights have infrared technology that will allow them to be used in many ways when needed. They can be small, but they can also be extremely bright.
When you are having a hard time trying to find the time to put aside to buy that survival light for your vehicle then consider making your own by purchasing a pre-made survival light kit. Having the ability to store all the parts you need and having a backup for emergencies is nice but if you find yourself in a jam for the sake of a flashlight you will be sorry. Keep reading for some helpful tips on making your own kit.
Multi-tool Knife
The multi-tool survival knife is the best way to use if you like to work with tools. Most people who like working with tools cannot survive without one, because they know that it is more useful than any other. The tool is made of chrome-plated steel and is very strong. You can use this knife to do things like cutting wood, cutting wire and nails, carving and many other things. It has different features like serrated edges and serrated points. The knife can be used in several ways. It can be used to clean up your pets, cut firewood, use as a tool for gardening, prepare foods and open boxes.
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Factors To Consider While Preparing For A Move
Are you looking to throw an amazing party this holiday season, with even better cocktails?
This time of year may be full of fun and cheer, but it can also be full of the same old drinks.
Spicing up your holiday party or office party can be as easy as including some more festive drinks to the menu.
It can also help put people in the holiday mood with warm spices, and festive looks, leaving them raving about the unique drinks options.
Read on to learn some wonderful winter party drinks that you can use to mix up your festivities in the best way.
The Best Party Drinks for the Holiday Season:
It can be tempting to take the easy way out and only choose the typical holiday drink lineup.
However, once you see these decadent options, you won't want anything else at your party.
Here are seven prime recipes for cocktails at holiday parties that are sure to win over some grinches.
1. Ginger and Berry Champagne:
A classy drink for a classy party, this fruity yet spicy beverage is the perfect party drink idea.
Ingredients
1.5 oz. berry-infused cognac
1 oz. alcoholic raspberry ginger beer
1 oz. champagne
3 dashes of Black and Blue Bitters
2-4 fresh berries for garnish
Instructions
Add all of these ingredients into a champagne flute and gently stir. Then, follow with a few fresh berries to garnish.
For the berry-infused cognac, simply add one pint of fresh berries to jar with two cups of cognac. Allow this to infuse for at least one week before enjoying.
2. Chocolate Peppermint Mimosas:
Any chocoholics out there? The winter season is the perfect excuse for chocolate-peppermint heaven - in the form of a drink, of course.
Ingredients
1/4 c. semisweet chocolate chips
9 candy canes
6 oz. peppermint schnapps
1 bottle champagne
Instructions
Begin this party drink recipe by melting the semisweet chocolate chips in a double boiler, or in the microwave.
Then, crush three of the candy cases, while leaving the remaining six whole. Pour both the melted chocolate and crushed candy canes onto separate plates.
Dip each champagne flute into the melted chocolate and then the crushed candy cane. Add in 1 ounce of peppermint schnapps to each glass, followed by champagne. Garnish with a whole candy cane in each flute.
3. The Winter Old-Fashioned:
Ingredients
2 oz bourbon
.5 oz spiced simple syrup
2 dashes orange bitters
2 dashes aromatic bitters
Cinnamon stick
Instructions
Start off by spicing the simple syrup in a small saucepan. Simmer the syrup in a 1:1 ratio with cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, clove, and cardamom.
Stir all the ingredients together with ice, then strain. Garnish with a fresh orange peel and a whole cinnamon stick.
4. The Ultimate Mistletoe Margaritas:
This red and festive margarita is an ideal frosty beverage for those nights that you're craving something icy, sweet, and seasonal.
Ingredients
1/2 c. whole cranberries
1/4 c. granulated sugar
2 tbsp. salt
3/4 c. lime juice
1 wedge lime, for rim
2 c. cranberry juice
12 oz. tequila
8 oz. triple sec
6 c. ice
Mint, for garnish
Instructions
Begin by mixing the fresh, whole cranberries with one-fourth of a cup of lime juice in a medium-sized bowl. Then, drain the lime juice and add in two tablespoons of granulated sugar.
With the remaining sugar and salt, mix them on a small plate. Wet the margarita glass with the lime wedge and dip generously into the plate of salt and sugar.
Blend the remaining ingredients of tequila, cranberry juice, triple sec, lime juice, and ice on high-speed until smooth.
Pour the mixture into the glass, garnish with a sprig of mint and cranberries, and enjoy this pink festive drink with good company at a small party venue.
5. Spiked Hot Cocoa with Rumchata:
This spiked hot chocolate is best enjoyed next to a toasty fire and a friend. A cocktail that's guaranteed to make you feel warm and comforted.
Ingredients
2 c. milk
1/4 c. granulated sugar
2 tbsp. cocoa powder
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
6 oz. chopped bittersweet chocolate
1/2 c. Rumchata
1/3 c. warm caramel
Whipped cream
Cinnamon sugar
Cinnamon stick
Instructions
In a small saucepan, begin simmering the milk. Slowly whisk in the sugar, vanilla, and cocoa powder until no lumps remain.
Stir in the bittersweet chocolate until fully melted, then add the Rumchata and remove from heat.
In a small dish, pour the warm caramel. Line each cup with the caramel by dipping it onto the dish.
Carefully pour the alcoholic hot chocolate into the glasses or mugs, and top with whipped cream, cinnamon sugar, and a whole cinnamon stick for a spicy and sweet warm cocktail.
6. Classic Mulled Wine:
Mulled wine is holiday time classic that is far from boring. Traditionally brewed at many of the Christmas Markets of Europe, this is a treat you won't soon forget!
Instructions
2 oranges, peeled & juiced
3/4 cup sugar
3 white cloves
1 cinnamon stick
1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg
2-star anise
2 bottles of Malbec
Instructions
Begin by simmering half of a bottle of the Malbec on the stovetop all of the spices, sugar and orange juice.
Once the sugar has fully dissolved, strain the mixture and then in a large saucepan, combine it with the remainder of the wine. Be very careful not to boil the mixture as this can make it lose alcohol.
Serve in heat-proof cups and garnish each with a fresh orange peel and a cinnamon stick.
7. Cinnamon Whiskey Sour with Cranberry:
This simple combination is sure to wow a crowd, with its pretty pink hue and classy taste only a whiskey sour can bring.
Ingredients
2 c. fresh cranberries
2 c. filtered water
2 c. granulated sugar
2 whole cinnamon sticks
3/4 c. simple syrup
3/4 c. whiskey
1/2 c. lemon juice
1/4 c. orange juice
1/4 c. lime juice
1 c. ice
Instructions
Begin this recipe in a large saucepan by bringing the cranberries, filtered water, granulated sugar, and cinnamon sticks to a slow boil on medium heat. Then, reduce the heat, and cook until the cranberries are soft.
Remove from heat and carefully strain the mixture with a fine mesh into a large bowl. Allow it to cool for at least ten minutes before moving to the next step.
For the cocktail, simply add the remaining ingredients of simple syrup, whiskey, lemon juice, orange juice, lime juice, and a handful of ice into a cocktail shaker, and mix for about a minute.
Rock the Winter Drinks this Season:
These recipes should help you baffle the guests at every holiday party and beyond, and you'll want to keep on making them each after the holidays are long gone.
Using a few signature recipes each and every year is key to hosting the perfect get together, no matter how big or small.
The most important part of any great cocktail, however, is who you decide to drink it with. So, enjoy all the time with loved ones this year, and every year.
Now that you have the perfect party drinks in your arsenal, check out these six delicious cakes to try this winter.
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Hollywood does a poor job depicting the outcome of an electromagnetic pulse. Although our great nation has yet to face a threat such as an EMP, the danger is real and its results profound.
Though we would like to think an EMP would never be experienced in our lifetime, that just may not be the case. Should it happen, you need to be prepared.
We will look at the potential threat posed against citizens, and what to equip yourself with to survive with proper EMP shielding.
A Real Threat:
Since 1859, EMP's have been an unstoppable force that can reset clocks and humanity. We discovered that our new technology, electricity, stood no match for the geomagnetic storm that came with something like a solar flare.
The first time we experienced such a power, it was no man-made scenario. The Carrington Event was the largest recorded solar flare ever recorded.
Telegraphs sparked, paper caught aflame, and bystanders situated close to electrical lines felt first hand the surge of electricity cutting through the atmosphere.
Through the years, the power displayed in the Carrington event had been harnessed. Nuclear testing gave way to the potential for EMP events to take place on demand.
Early in the cold war, the potential for widespread electrical malfunction was observed by both the US and Russia upon their nuclear testing. From that point, all efforts were put towards defending against an attack with one of these electromagnetic weapons.
Iran, India, Pakistan, Russia, Cuba, North Korea, and China, among other countries acquiring the resources needed, now all possess the knowledge, capability, and will to set an instrument like this into the war zone.
Militarized weaponization of the electromagnetic pulse is a fear of many. It could strike anywhere, any time, and leave the nation in the dark. The motto is: if you aren't at least concerned, you aren't paying attention.
Be Aware, Take Action:
There is little to nothing you can do about a nationwide blackout from an EMP. However, there is much you can do about the products and supplies you need to keep safe in case of such an event.
An EMP destroys all electronics connected to the grid, plugged into the wall, and any device using a microchip. While a low-tech blender not plugged into a wall may stay safe, things like your phone, hard drives, LED flashlights and radios will be toasted.
Luckily, technology has given us EMP shielding for the devices we need most. The Faraday cage is the best defense against an EMP event.
Insulating the object from the harmful gamma rays and ionized atmosphere that sweeps through the environment, the Faraday cage diverts the danger out and around the object.
A conductive outer shell is responsible for redirecting the damaging waves while the insulation keeps your device safe for life post-EMP. These "cages", however, take many forms.
While some are crafted from ammunition cases and cardboard, a more portable, lightweight option has been tested and certified for protection.
Tech Protect EMP Protection Bags offer the ability to store the tools, devices, and support systems you need in case of an electromagnetic pulse.
Sizes from 8" x 8" all the way up to 38" x 18" x 14" allow you to keep individual good protected, as well as critical power generation units that will be sacred in post-EMP life.
What you get with a faraday bag is the most versatile and easy to use tried and tested device for costs that let you be protected sooner rather than later. EMP bags are affordable enough to keep all of your solid-state bug-out gear function for the days ahead.
A New War:
The threat of traditional nuclear war has taken the back seat, as the EMP has been tailored to cause near the same effect without the unquestionable damage to all parts of the earth.
The impact of an EMP would cause mass casualties in each state affected.
As the grid and every system dependant on it for operation is no longer usable, people will rely on what they have to survive.
Those who have the best chance at survival are those who can bear winters, hydrate daily through the following years and summer swelters, forage or ration what food they can manage, and defend against those who want what they have.
Let's break down the root of each of these dependencies we rely on and how the world will look should we not have these utilities.
First, we have our electrical, water, and sewage systems. All of these main utilities will cease to function as they depend on electricity to operate. As people turn their focus on providing sustenance for their own families, maintenance of critical facilities will not be provided.
With a collapsed economy, currency as we know it becomes useless. Food, ammo, tools, and supplies become bartering tender, as the traditional system of working and getting paid to buy products no longer applies.
The result of nonfunctioning utilities and economy is, in the case of an estimated 90% of the US, death. Starvation, dehydration, hypothermia, and murder will be exponentially elevated.
While this may just sound like scare tactics, the fact remains that our society as we know it could not function even close to the way it does and has for the past 50, 100, or even 200 years.
Taking a giant leap back in time would pose challenges the majority of the nation has never had to face, and ones we don't even know first hand how to deal with. Desperate citizens will take desperate measures.
War is complicated, and our modern advancements have only added to the complexity. A nation with resources and much to lose is a vulnerable one when it becomes technologically set back.
Taking a critical look at our nation, it is important to know that the military is very aware and prepared for events such as an EMP. While you can not rely on others to be prepared, you can keep your self and loved one ready and trust in the wise folks who bear arms against additional threats.
Providing EMP Shielding For Tomorrow:
There should be no doubt; EMP preparedness is a wise move for anyone, anywhere. So how do you get your things in line for the day after such a great set back?
First, think about the things you and your family depend on for survival. In such an event, where would you get water? do you have enough food stored up to last, and are you able to hunt more when rations run dry?
These things are crucial. However, help may be provided in national guard deployed locations. A radio saved for this electrical rainy-day can give you guidance to the nearest shelter, and potentially guide you to a safe location should further threats pursue.
Keeping a hand-crank radio, or one with extra batteries, in a Faraday bag can drastically help you. Also, consider your families life-supporting needs. If a loved one relies on any sort of electronic life-supporting devices, it would be smart to have an extra stored away.
Keeping devices safe is important, but like your rations, things eventually die. Recharging your devices will then pose just as much of a challenge as the EMP itself. Preparedness in all areas can be covered though.
A solar-powered generator will allow you to charge batteries, flashlights, power banks, power tools, and plug-in life-saving devices. Portable solar generators can give your family the help it needs. Place one in an EMP protection bag and keep it stored!
Life Goes On:
Like any great disaster, war, or collapse, life eventually reestablishes itself as manageable. Communities come together, and families grow stronger. While an EMP is something no one ever hopes to face, the reality is that it could happen at any time.
EMP shielding will get you through the tough times by giving you back a piece of the world you know in times of major reset. Lives can be saved with just a simple duplicate stored neatly in a military-grade sealed and insulated conductive unit.
Not only does war give way to the need for preparedness, but the world is also ripe with other dangers that threaten our way of life in the form of an EMP, be it man, nature, or malfunction. That's just the world we live in.
You have the knowledge and tools you need to defend against the worst of scenarios, get ready today. And while you're at it, check out our blog for more great articles about health, wellness, lifestyle, DIY, and so much more!
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