Tag Archives: just so you know

Dec15

Pet Care: Dos And Don’ts

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Pet Care: Dos And Don’ts

We love pets! Therefore, we always want to give them the healthiest, fullest lives while they’re with us. Unfortunately, in trying to give your pet the best, you may inadvertently harm them in the process. A National Pet Owners survey revealed that 85 million families in the US own pets and the majority of owners are concerned about their pet’s wellbeing. It’s essential to know the right way to care for your lovable animals. Here are three do’s and don’ts when taking care of pets:

Know what to feed them:

How often do you take time to read your pet’s dietary plan as well as what its food contains? These are the first steps in showing responsibility towards your pet. Many pet foods claim to be healthy but are not. In 2019, a lawsuit was filed against Kansas-based Hill’s Pet Nutrition over allegations of unhealthy foods that resulted in many dogs’ deaths. Did you know goldfish cannot take in food containing yeast as this is hazardous to their health? Click here to find out on what to feed your goldfish to be on the safe side. Additionally, always consult your veterinarian on ingredients you are unsure of. More so, avoid overfeeding your pets as this may cause them to exceed their daily calorie limits.

Regular visits to the vet:

It is critical to start your visits to the vet quite early with your pups and kittens. Your dogs and cats must be licensed and vaccinated against rabies when they are fourteen weeks old. At precisely one-year-old, they should also get a booster shot, depending on your state. For example, whereas California law strictly requires a dog to receive boosters annually, New York State law demands repeat shots every one to four years. However, some pet owners ignore booster shots for their pets and that puts families, strangers, and other animals in the home at risk. In extreme cases, others are not vaccinating their pets at all – known as anti-vax animal owners.

Your regular appointments with your vet are so important for your pets to have a long and happy life. Vets can help detect problems before they become significant and will be able to recommend the best course of treatment. This could include prescribing dog arthritis treatment, advising for physical therapy, or simply encouraging a change in diet. You are responsible for all aspects of care for your pet and an appointment with your vet is the best place to start.

Rub them the right way:

After a long and stressful day, you look forward to getting home to show some affection to your furry buddy. You finally get to rub your pet but immediately get nicked or scratched. Do you know what you did wrong? You rubbed them wrongly! Experienced pet owners recommend rubbing your furry friends in the direction of fur growth and not against it. When this is not done, your pet may interpret this as an attack. You should avoid going directly to the top of their head as you show affection. Instead, approach from the side of the pet’s head while maintaining gentle strokes until you reach the upper part. While dogs love to be stroked in the neck and shoulder areas, cats prefer soft scratching under the chin. You should also look out for signs of a wagging tail and purrs. These indicate that you’re doing it right.

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Pixabay Image

Be sure to explore more tips on pet care. It requires a considerable amount of time, effort, and of course, money to care for your pets. It is all worth it, though, when you know your furry friend is healthy, happy, and safe.

Featured Image By: Pixabay

Dec15

Have You Lost Weight?

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Have You Lost Weight?

Trigger Warning – This post discusses eating disorders!

Hi everyone! Have you ever received a compliment that made you a little upset? As a recovering bulimic, I admit that I still worry about my weight a lot even though I haven’t purged in several years. So, when I was asked twice in one work day if I lost weight it definitely had me feeling some type of way – even though I don’t really do anything to work out except for a couple of short walks once or twice a week.

I genuinely hate being asked if I lost weight because the thoughts that instantly form in my mind go along the lines of “was I overweight before?” and “challenge accepted, I’ll lose more”. It is extremely triggering for me and, although I have much better coping skills now, I still have to deal with those thoughts and I’d be a liar if I said I wasn’t still thinking about it.

A lot of people think that asking someone if they have lost weight could be a compliment but I know firsthand that it is anything but. I encourage all of you to really think before you ask someone that and would advise to only ask it if you know for a fact that the person is actively trying to lose weight for a healthier lifestyle. You have no idea if the person you’re asking has or had an eating disorder, an illness, or tons of stress that has attributed to their recent weight loss. What you think is a compliment could actually be harmful and has the power to hurt feelings and exasperate issues that people are currently struggling or used to struggle with.

If you genuinely want to compliment someone in regards to their weight, I would recommend just telling them that they look good. “Hey, you look nice today” has a lot less of a negative connotation than straight up asking if they lost weight. Some people might roll their eyes when they read this post as they are sick of having to “monitor” what they say. But, as writers, we all know that words have power and effect everyone differently.

I know all of the statements in this post to be true for me personally and I just wanted to open everyone’s eyes to a comment that they might not even think about before they make it. Choose your words carefully and don’t use them to cause anyone any additional stress – with the state of the world right now, I promise that we all have a lot more important things to deal with than racing thoughts about if you lost a couple of pounds. Just something to think about!

What is a “compliment” that you hate receiving? What is a compliment that you like to give to people? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Featured Image By: Pixabay

Dec11

The Importance Of Learning About Your Pets

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The Importance Of Learning About Your Pets

The pets you have at home are truly a gift. They make you happy, provide entertainment, and are always up for a good cuddle when you need it most. Of course, love isn’t all you need to be able to provide for your pet. Along with this, you also need to do some learning. Every animal is different, with dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, and a range of other pet options available, and this means that you need to know your stuff before you take them home. This post will be exploring some of the key areas that you will need to brush up on:

Nutrition & Basic Health:

Nutrition is crucial when you are looking after an animal. They won’t be able to eat the same foods as you do, and you may have to be quite strict to avoid weight gain or other health problems. Alongside their nutrition, it also makes sense to learn about their basic health needs. Your vet should be able to help with both of these areas, but it can also serve to take some time to do your own research around the web. Everyone has a different idea of how to handle this part of a pet’s life, and you can apply what you learn to your own pet accordingly.

Behavior:

It can be hard to pinpoint what is wrong with a pet when they are acting in a way that you’re not used to. For example, bearded dragons can seem like they have few emotions on the surface, but signs like their beard turning black can be an indicator that they are scared of something. Sites like Homepethelp go into incredible detail to describe issues like this, giving you the chance to figure out exactly what is causing your pet to act strangely. Once you have the cause of something like this, it will be much easier to keep your pet happy.

Exercise & Play:

Some pets don’t need much attention, but others will need you to spend hours each day with them. It is very important to make sure that you know what your pet needs, with animals like cats and dogs often getting depressed when they don’t get enough quality time with their owners. Other animals can be used to make this easier, with loads of groups on sites like Facebook being dedicated to helping pet owners to find play dates. Along with this, you could also think about getting some automated toys for when you simply don’t have time to play.

With all of this in mind, you should be feeling ready to take on the challenge of learning about your pets. This can be a great way to make their lives better, while also giving them the support they need to develop properly.

Featured Image By: Unsplash

Nov30

Wanted: Holiday Season Guest Bloggers

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Wanted: Holiday Season Guest Bloggers

Hi everyone! I don’t know what COVID is like in your neck of the woods but it is bad, bad, bad in Ohio. Johnny and I are even more hunkered down than ever and, if that’s the case for you, then why not fill a free afternoon with guest blogging for lifewithlilred?!

From your Christmas cookie decoration station to gift guides, delicious recipes, favorite holiday memories, etc. if it has something to do with the holiday season, then I want it on my page! If you are interested in being a featured blogger for the day on lifewithlilred, please email me your post ideas at: sarah.mush6794@gmail.com so that we can chit chat and get you scheduled. 🙂

Once you guest blog on my page you will always be welcome back with open arms so join the Lil Red fam today! Stay safe and happy holidays! ❤

Nov26

How To Enjoy A Calm Winter

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How To Enjoy A Calm Winter

Winter is well and truly on its way. In fact, it’s pretty much here. And with what’s going on in the world right now, you may find that you really don’t want to be spending too much time on anything that’s strenuous or that takes your energy away. And if that’s the case, you will be reaping as many of the benefits that a winter hibernation can offer you. At this time of the year, we don’t always want to spend too much outside or on hard activities. Instead, we want to be able to slow down and make sure that we can get through to spring feeling fantastic. To help you to do that, you may find that the ideas below will inspire you:

To get started:

Before shifting into hibernation mode, is everything on your winter checklist tended to? Garden furniture put away? Winter tires installed? Has an inspection of your heating system been completed? As the temperatures drop it is so important to get your HVAC or boiler system inspected to ensure it is in working order for the season. A company like https://heatsafeheatingltd.co.uk/ (or something similar in your local area) can inspect your boilers and repair any issues to keep your home warm and cozy all winter long. All that will be left to do is relax!

Switch off more:

To start with, one of the best things that you can do here is to make sure that you’re letting yourself switch off as much as possible. If you’re always on the go or your mind is always racing, your time won’t be calm. So try to switch off from work or the online world for a little bit if you can.

Distance yourself:

From here, you might want to try and think about keeping your distance from negativity. This may seem like a strange thing to add in as a winter practice, however, it can be really beneficial for your mind. If you know that you have a lot of toxic people in your life as you’re choosing to enjoy a few calming months, it’s good to try and keep them at arm’s length. That way, you know that your tranquillity won’t be threatened.

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Unsplash Image

Make room for calming practices:

The next thing that you might want to do is make sure that you are welcoming more calming practices into your life. You may find that you are able to feel a lot calmer throughout the colder months when you actively look to make this happen. Maybe you want to read instead of watch TV? Turn to something like Bloom Farms CBD instead of alcohol? Or quiet games nights with family rather than something rowdier? It all helps.

Treat yourself better:

Even if you think you already do this, you may not be treating yourself as well as you’d think. Are you resting? Are you looking after your body? Are you prioritizing your needs? If not, then you’re going to want to make sure that you change this. You’ll find it helps you to be a lot calmer and feel much better about yourself.

Enjoy the downtime:

Finally, you may find that it’s actually really nice for you to just enjoy more of the downtime. Winter isn’t always as fun, busy, and outgoing as summer – and it needn’t be. With winter comes the cold and dark and it’s not always the time of year that you want to be active. So just let yourself enjoy the calm and the slower pace. Do less. Relax. Be slow. Lap up all of the things you can do in hibernation before a glorious springtime comes back once again.

Ready, set, relax with the tips above and have a calm and safe winter!

Featured Image By: Unsplash

Nov26

What Should You Expect From A Leading Estate Agent?

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What Should You Expect From A Leading Estate Agent?

Would you build a house without using a reputable construction firm? It’s unlikely. So, why should your approach be any different when buying or selling a property? There are many people who overlook the services of an estate agency in an attempt to save themselves some cash. However, this could cost a lot more in the long run. Signing a contract without expert consultation could turn out to be a disaster.

Moreover, with an experienced estate agent on your side, you have more chance of striking the perfect deal for you. Knowledgeable estate agents can help in all aspects of sales and rentals, allowing their clients to benefit from their expertise when it comes to everything from negotiation, adding value to a property, and finding the right tenants. Property law can be complex, and it is ever-changing, which is why it is always advisable to have an expert in the field on your side. This eliminates the need to carry out extensive research and gives you the peace of mind that everything is being handled effectively and efficiently.

If you are in need of an excellent estate agent, simply enter a search for “Estate agents in Romsey” (or your local area). When you have made a selection after researching and seeking reviews and recommendations, the following pieces of advice should be expected in the service they are providing:

What to expect when selling your property:

With an abundance of experience, an esteemed position in the industry, and a constant appetite to stay up to date with the latest trends, you will have the help you need from an expert estate agency. A dedicated team will ensure that the process of selling your home is as straightforward and stress-free as possible. They will conduct a thorough valuation of your property, and when you are ready to proceed they will market it via both offline and online channels. Click here to see a good example. They will take professional photographs to show your property in the best light and combine them with an attractive description. They’ll conduct professional viewings whenever anyone is interested.

Buying a property with a leading agent:

If you’re looking to buy, then your agent will provide you with all the information on properties in your preferred area that fit within your price range, making sure the process of finding your dream home runs as smoothly as possible. Once you’ve found your dream home, there should be an evident commitment to providing an enjoyable purchasing experience. From liaising with solicitors and mortgage providers to answering any questions you may have about the progress of your purchase, your consultant will be on hand to provide information and advice on all parts of the property buying process.

Remember that you will want an agent that specializes in the specific type of property you are interested in. There are realtors for everything from bungalows to beach houses and this is just in your home state or country. If you are thinking of purchasing property overseas, companies like Simon Conn can assist in making what seems like a daunting task much easier.

Property rentals with agents:

Do you have a portfolio of properties you’d like to rent out? Perhaps you’re thinking of moving home and would like to make an income on your current place? No matter what applies, a leading agent should offer you an exceptional service for landlords. If you’re interested in renting a property out, a dedicated team will find the perfect tenant for you. They’ll market your property via numerous channels, using professional photographs and compelling content. Once they find someone interested in your property, they will conduct the necessary checks, including credit checks and references, while they will also put together tenancy agreements and all other required documents.

Don’t skimp on the importance of working with an estate agent when it comes to selling or purchasing property!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Nov24

A Guide To Social Media Etiquette

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A Guide To Social Media Etiquette

Over one billion people use social media daily, mostly for entertainment or business. For this reason, most people consider social media to be part of their daily life. Some users generate a lot of income and survive entirely on the money made from social media platforms. However, not everyone uses social media correctly as intended by the developers.

Over the years, employers have increasingly found it necessary to see if their candidate conducts themselves professionally on these platforms. With that said, here are the most common social media dos and don’ts:

Do – Spread positive ideas:

Social media never forgets. Have you ever seen posts that you deleted ages ago from the search results? It is difficult to wipe out everything about you on the internet. Therefore, whenever you feel like sharing your negative opinion, think twice. The consequences that come after may not be worth it.

Do – Have a visually appealing profile:

You need to complete your profile as required and update it frequently. Along with that, choose a theme for every one of your posts. You should also have a unique pattern that demonstrates your personality. Your personality and appearance can help you stand out among the millions of users. You can edit your photos, but don’t overdo it. You should also consider retouching jewelry to enhance the sparkle and help you demonstrate your sense of style.

Do – Post relevant content regularly:

Social networks are known to favoring active users’ accounts. Such accounts get more exposure than others. Their posts go viral and get more engagement in terms of comments, likes, and shares. While this may be tempting, resist the urge to post too much content. For some reason, some users might hate reading tens of posts from a single user in a day. It shows that you have nothing else to do even when you do.

Don’t – Spam:

Various social networks like Facebook have algorithms set up to flag spamming accounts. With all the privileges of an active account, you may not like yours to have any restrictions. Imagine being an influencer and missing out on huge deals just because you did not abide by simple rules!

Don’t – Repeatedly share posts:

Sharing a post multiple times can come off as a bit excessive. Solely focus on new content before sharing something already published again.

Don’t – Ignore your followers:

While it is humanly impossible to respond to every question and comment, try your best to respond to a few every time you log on. You may never know what you miss out on unless you spare some time and interact with your followers. Even worse off is setting up an auto-responding bot that lacks the special touch of your own personality!

Like every other activity in life, social media requires self-discipline for the best results. Most importantly, share content that you will look back and be proud of in the future.

Nov19

Lil Red COVID-19 PSA

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Lil Red COVID-19 PSA

Howdy!! Unfortunately, COVID-19 is still causing a lot of grief for everyone. Fortunately, there are many steps that you can take to better protect yourselves and your loved ones. Like some of the following:

Mask Up:

Whether you’re rocking a surgical mask or a homemade cloth one, it is so important to wear a mask if you are out in public. Yes, some people find them uncomfortable. But, you know what’s more uncomfortable? People getting sick and dying. Wearing a mask is a sign of respect to those around you, for yourself, and for your loved ones. It is the absolute least we can all do.

Social Distance:

If you are out in public, be sure to follow proper social distancing protocols by standing at least six feet apart from those around you. Many stores have handy markers on the ground to help keep everyone the appropriate space apart. Be aware of them, use them, and don’t be that person who is up in everyone’s space despite the PANDEMIC going on. Also, while in public, make sure you are using Purell or your preferred brand of hand sanitizer often.

Just Stay In:

As someone who works with very high risk people, I have been hunkered down since March to better protect myself and my clients. Would it be nice to continue to go here, there, and everywhere as if things were normal right now? Yes. But things aren’t normal right now and most outings like restaurants, bars, or large get togethers are completely unnecessary.

Order take out, have a wine night at home, or Zoom everybody in for a hang sesh in the evening. It has been so difficult for me to give things up that I love like ice skating weekly, seeing my friends, and in store shopping trips. However, I value everyone’s health and safety far more than all of my favorite activities combined.

If You’re Bored…

And, if you’re super bored, you are always welcome here on lifewithlilred as a guest blogger! Fill up some ample free time by emailing me at: sarah.mush6794@gmail.com and we can arrange for you to be my featured blogger of the day. The best part? lifewithlilred is about creating a family in the blogosphere and all of my previous guest bloggers will always have a home on my page when they want to have their work featured again. Stay in for an afternoon and become part of my ever growing blogging family! ❤

How do you stay safe in COVID times? What is something that you miss doing the most? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Nov9

Ill Fitting Face Mask? Try This Quick Tip!

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Ill Fitting Face Mask? Try This Quick Tip!

Hello! It is so important to wear a face mask right now to help with the spread of COVID-19. It is also so important that your face mask fits well and that there are no gaps anywhere that leave parts of your face exposed. I love my cloth masks, myself, because I find that they fit much better than the surgical masks, which are very loose on me.

My mom is a very petite lady and has the cutest little face. But that means that some cloth masks can be really big on her. This past week, she told me her secret for improving the fit of her masks and it is so simple and smart that I just had to share it with all of you:

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If the top half of your cloth mask slides past your nose and can open up to expose the inside, then all you need is a bag of coffee grounds for the solution. Actually, all you need is the silver safety seal on a bag of coffee grounds to help keep it fresh.

Once your seal has been acquired, all you need to do is slide it up to the top crease of your mask through the opening. This will then act as a clamp so that you can tighten the top half, much like the tops of the blue surgical masks.

This quick fix has improved my mom’s mask game tenfold and all it takes is a bag of coffee. So, grab your favorite blend, keep caffeinated, use this tip, and pass it along to anyone who might find it helpful! 🙂

What are some of your fixes for an ill fitting mask? Where do you find the cutest face masks? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Nov5

Literally Falling For Fall Update

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Literally Falling For Fall Update

Hello! If you have been following lifewithlilred for a while, then you have been with me through all kinds of ouches like when Johnny and I got in a car accident and I was hospitalized and an oral surgery gone dreadfully wrong. My most recent “whoopsy daisy” of taking a tumble on the wet, leaf strewn wooden walkway to my apartment was nowhere near as severe but, gotDAMN did it hurt and I’ve got a hell of a bruise to prove it. Check it out:

Now, this is not a post to get sympathy for this deep purple monstrosity. Rather, it is a reminder to be careful!! Coincidentally, my Johnny took a spill mere hours before me when he was taking out the trash that day and we have since been taking our time making the walk to our apartment on the wet, rainy fall days that Ohio has been plagued with.

Johnny has actually been so sweet because, most days, he gets home from work before me and he’ll text me to remind me that it’s really slick so I don’t take another spill. Falls, tumbles, accidents, oopsies, boo boos, or whatever you call it can be so painful and even fatal for some so this is just your Lil Red reminder to take your time while walking (And driving!) during this slippery weather so you don’t end up with a major bruise on your side too!

What is the fall weather like in your neck of the woods? What are some of your safety tips for bad weather? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah