Tag Archives: water

Jun24

New Manna Tumbler

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New Manna Tumbler

Howdy!! Once upon a time, I had a Stanley mug that my niece used for strawberry milk during one of our slumber parties. Johnny never washed said mug, it became riddled with mold, he threw it out, and that was the end of my Stanley experience. Since then, I have used many a different random tumblers I have to sip on water throughout the day and began using a Halloween mug exclusively. Whether at home or out and about, I had my mug in hand… Until I dropped it and it broke lol. I had been using the broken mug despite its cap no longer screwing on and it has been pretty annoying. Thankfully, I had a surprise TJMaxx shopping trip this past week and was able to replace my broken tumbler with this pretty little number:

On Tuesday, my mom and I decided to go on an impromptu TJs adventure during my break to spend some gift cards. Unfortunately, my sweet mom struck out but, as per ushe, I ended up with a haul. Lol, no surprise there! As we made our way throughout the store, we ended up in the home goods department and I thought that now would be a perfect time to snag a new tumbler. There were so many options to choose from and they even had Stanley mugs there. Of course, they were significantly more expensive than the other tumblers on the shelf and I wanted something on the cheaper end as my shopping cart was bursting at the seams!

A couple of tumblers caught my eye, but my new pastel pink and blue mug by Manna was the winner. It was huge, on clearance for twelve bucks, looked similar to a Stanley, and was just so cute! I love the colors and those little flowers at the bottom added a unique and adorable pop. As darling as the appearance of this mug is, the size was also a deciding factor. In the case of travel mugs, bigger is always better and I feel like I was refilling my old one constantly. This mug will also keep my water ice cold and that is exactly what I need. The temperatures here have skyrocketed into the nineties and your girl is dying lol. -_- This will definitely help keep me cool and hydrated this summer!

My fallen Stanley and broken Halloween mug have finally been replaced and it couldn’t have happened a moment too soon. Stay tuned for more from my haul and a surprise gift for the bunnies!

Do you have a favorite tumbler? What is your favorite thing to drink throughout the day? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May6

Boo To You!!

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Boo To You!!

Howdy!! Once upon a time, I received a Stanley mug as a gift and it was glorious. It was a beautiful shade of sea foam green and no one could tell me NOTHING while I toted my gigantic mug of ice water around. Then, my niece came over for a slumber party a few weeks later. I didn’t have any sipper cups for her drinks or straws so I improvised and offered her my Stanley mug. She delighted over the fact that she could drink her chocolate milk “like a big person” and it was just the cutest! I put my mug in the sink for Johnny to wash and then he… didn’t lol. For some reason, he bypassed the mug and by the time he opened it up to wash, it was filled with mold and he proceeded to throw it out so no more Stanley for me. SMH.

Since then, I wasn’t bringing any type of tumbler mug with me as I went about my day and opted for bottled water instead. Then, my niece came over for a slumber party recently and the same song and dance of no straws or sipper cups played. I browsed my options in the cabinets and stumbled upon this mug that I had all but forgotten and we were in business!

I purchased this mug from our local discount store, Marc’s, during the Halloween season. It was a steal for three dollars and I considered it my replacement Stanley – until I brought it home, couldn’t open it, and chalked it up as a three buck loss. Oddly enough, the top opened up so easily when I used it for my niece and I have been using it ever since! Not only do the spooky ghosts make me smile but I cannot recall the last time I have drank so much water regularly. It’s so nice to have the mug with me so I can sip away whenever I need to wet my whistle and I couldn’t even tell you the amount of times I refill it per day. It’s a lot!

Drinking more water in and of itself is a positive and I have definitely noticed the benefits as I increased my normal intake. I feel like I fall asleep so much easier at night and that has decreased my morning dose of caffeine significantly, which is something I have wanted to change. Don’t get me wrong, I still have my coffee and Diet Coke but I am no longer slamming them back to back lol. From a beauty standpoint, my skin looks fresher and clearer and it’s like getting a free skin care treatment every time I fill my mug back up. Why didn’t I start doing this sooner?! I guess I just needed the right mug. 😀

This is your friendly Lil Red Reminder to stay hydrated. Get yourself a fun mug and you will be amazed at how quickly drinking more water becomes part of your daily routine!

What is your favorite mug to use? How much water do you drink per day? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Aug23

Battling Water Damage: How To Keep Your Home Dry

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Battling Water Damage: How To Keep Your Home Dry

Let’s address something that may go undetected in your home until it’s too late: water damage. It is much easier to prevent water damage than to do Water Damage Restoration, but it can be done. Let’s look at some tips to keep your abode dry and safe for all of its inhabitants:

Gutters are rain guards:

Imagine gutters as raincoats for your home; they protect it from getting wet in a downpour and should always remain clear of debris to ensure water runs freely. Make a habit of regularly clearing away leaves and twigs from them – either using a gutter scoop or garden trowel to do it; for best results, use both. For damaged or leaky gutters use gutter sealant. Cleaning gutters or hiring someone to do so can be a hassle. However, the process of water mitigation is far more difficult and time consuming. Gutters are a safeguard for your home so clean and care for them accordingly.

Secure it ASAP:

Seal all potential gaps where water could leak in around windows and doors by applying caulk around them; cracked caulk acts like an open drawbridge, so to maintain optimal performance, refresh it frequently with fresh beads of caulk when necessary; just one bead could help defend against water’s relentless attack!

Sealing gaps is a great form of defense for your home, but it’s not the solution for everything. For more extensive water damage, restoration professionals like Protegrity Restoration or a similar company in your area will need to be called in. Make sure they are well reviewed so the job will get done properly.

Be shower savvy:

Your bathroom might seem peaceful, but it can also be an easy source of leaks and flooding. Your shower curtain serves as the first line of defense against this potential disaster; be sure it remains functional at all times; moldy or torn curtains act like breached castle walls that allow water to invade – change them regularly to ensure water doesn’t seep into your healthy home!

Improve your lawn, safeguard your castle:

Your lawn is more than a pretty face – it serves an invaluable purpose in safeguarding your home’s foundation! Water should flow away from the foundation so make sure your yard slopes away from it; water is meant to work for us rather than against us! If your backyard resembles a quagmire full of puddles, consider grading to channel away water via drainage channels to help prevent water damage to your home.

Sump pumps are your home’s bodyguard:

Sump pumps are your basement’s go-to protection when water enters through any openings in its perimeter walls or drainpipe. Make sure it’s operational, with clean drain pipes; consider it like having its superhero ready when trouble arises! Regardless of if you have a sump pump or not, basements can be highly susceptible to water damage and can prove disastrous for your home. Should you notice any tell tale signs of water damage, Visit Water Damage Restoration Boston (or a similar company in your local area) to assess the scene and provide a solution. Tackling a problem when it first arises will save you a lot of time and money in the long run.

DIY magic: concealment in action:

Are your walls suffering from water damage and looking like abstract art? No worries; just grab some paint to cover up these mistakes. A fresh coat of paint could act like cosmetic surgery to erase any signs of water damage in your home and restore its aesthetic value. This is an easy DIY fix and is the best case scenario when it comes to water damage. However, some aspects of repair will not be so simple and requires the assistance of a professional team. If there is an issue beyond your skill set, enter a search for “Water damage restoration service in San Antonio, TX” (or your local area) to get the job done right and better protect your home.

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Bidvine/ Pexels

Take care of your wood:

Your wooden structures in the home require care TLC. Apply water-resistant finishes on decks, fences, and wooden siding in order to ward off moisture seepage.

Be encouraged; water damage doesn’t need to be the end all be all. With these simple strategies, water damage should no longer threaten to devastate your home!

Featured Image By: 100 files/Pexels

Mar31

Four Tips For A Healthier Family

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Four Tips For A Healthier Family

Our health is the most important thing we have. How can you guarantee your family’s health and make your children aware of its significance? Let’s take a look at some of the ways to focus your energy:

Show Them How Important Nutrition Is:

Making water the go-to beverage in your household should be a top priority. While it’s tempting to give in to a child’s desire for juice or pop, it’s better to offer them water first. Try stressing the significance of staying hydrated and modeling good water-drinking habits for children. Also, consider what you now feed your loved ones. When you prepare meals for your family, give thought to serving a variety of nutritious foods. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, nutritious grains, nuts, and seeds. Indulge in takeaway or dining at restaurants occasionally, but don’t make it a regular habit. If your family enjoys dining out frequently, it’s important to instill solid decision-making skills in your children. Instead of letting young children get everything they want, provide them with a limited selection of options from which to choose.

Be An Active Family:

You should spend time together exploring the outdoors, learning about each other’s interests, and visiting new locations. Get your kids moving and teach them the value of fitness. Make plans for the weekend, even if it’s only to go to the park and play some soccer. Children are more likely to follow their parent’s example and lead an active lifestyle if they see it modeled at home. Take them on outdoor hikes and keep an eye out for animals and animal footprints if they have an interest in wildlife. Talking to youngsters and seeing what they’re interested in trying is a great way to get them excited about outdoor activities.

Go To Regular Check-Ups:

As an adult, you are aware of the importance of routine visits to the doctor, dentist, and eye doctor. It’s important to start sharing what you learn about health with your kids when you see the doctor, whether it’s for a problem or a routine exam. Children often express anxiety about medical visits due to their lack of knowledge and experience. If they see you visiting these places when they aren’t there, they may feel more comfortable and confident in going to such experts. Including the kids as soon as possible is the greatest option.

Even if you’re anxious, taking a proactive stance and reassuring them that they have nothing to worry about might help them develop a heightened awareness and, perhaps, a reduced level of fear. Show your kids where you’re going to appointments instead of just saying you have them. This is especially helpful for younger children who are venturing into the unknown for the first time. One poor encounter is all it takes to put them off coming again so make sure that you involve them in anything you may be having done such as same day teeth treatments.

Be A Good Example:

No one is flawless, therefore there’s no pressure to be. Nonetheless, parents can better influence their children’s behavior by leading through example rather than lecturing them. Be mindful of your words and actions. Many unhealthy parents raise unhealthy children, which in turn increases the prevalence of unhealthy lifestyles. It has the potential to become a vicious cycle. It’s important to set an example for others by talking about your efforts to eat well, exercise regularly, spend time with your family, and maintain a positive mental and physical state. Provide unambiguous, truthful responses wherever possible.

Focus your energy on these four steps for a healthier family and lifestyle!

Featured Image By: Jason Briscoe on Unsplash

Mar21

Reduce Chicken Skin With These Tips

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Reduce Chicken Skin With These Tips

Chicken skin, or keratosis pilaris, can cause redness and bumps on the skin. It is a common condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is generally caused by an overproduction of keratin, the protein responsible for forming our skin’s texture and protection. Fortunately, several treatments are available to help reduce the appearance of chicken skin and keep it from returning:

Use gentle cleansers and moisturizers:

To control chicken skin, it’s essential to use gentle cleansers and moisturizers when dealing with it. Strong soaps can irritate the sensitive bumps on the surface of the skin. Cleansers with lactic acid can help reduce redness, improve hydration, and create a smoother texture. Once your face or body has been cleansed, a moisturizer should be used to keep the affected area soft and prevent itching. When choosing a product, look for something that contains hydrating ingredients like glycerin or shea butter, as they can lock in moisture without clogging pores.

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Exfoliate regularly:

Exfoliating regularly is the best way to keep your skin looking smooth and healthy. Be sure to use a gentle exfoliant suited for sensitive skin. Exfoliation helps shed away dead cells on the surface of the skin, revealing brighter, healthier skin and allowing moisturizers to be absorbed more easily. Start slow, taking time with each section of the affected area by softly massaging it with an exfoliator in circular motions with lukewarm water. Regular exfoliation helps prevent chicken skin from occurring while also providing some relief from existing lesions in less severe cases.

Apply topical retinoid creams:

Correctly applying topical retinoid creams when dealing with chicken skin is one of the most effective treatments for this condition. Dermatologists may recommend topical retinoid creams containing an active ingredient called tretinoin. Not only does this help exfoliate dead skin cells and unclog pores, but it also helps to reduce inflammation caused by keratosis pilaris. When applying topical retinoid creams, it is essential to follow your dermatologist’s instructions carefully to avoid potential side effects like skin irritation or dryness. Additionally, applying sunscreen when exposed to direct sunlight is recommended to prevent further damage.

Get help from an expert:

An expert dermatologist can be invaluable when treating Keratosis Pilaris (commonly referred to as Chicken Skin). Dermatologists can assist in managing this condition by prescribing topical creams or lotions. Also, they may suggest over-the-counter products and give personalized advice on skincare routines to keep skin moist as dryness can exacerbate keratosis pilaris symptoms. Dermatologists may also provide in-office treatments such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or laser therapy to lessen the appearance of bumps. While medication can help manage symptoms effectively, there’s no permanent solution for keratosis pilaris; ongoing care may be necessary.

Avoid harsh products:

To correctly manage chicken skin and avoid flare-ups, it is essential to steer clear of harsh soaps, perfumes, and irritating fabrics like wool. Harsh soaps can strip away vital oils that protect the skin and keep its natural pH balance intact. Fragrances are particularly troublesome because they often contain ingredients that cause redness and itching. Additionally, fabrics such as wool can be highly irritating when they come in contact with the skin. Sticking with softer or more cotton materials is best to ensure optimal comfort levels. Taking these small steps can significantly reduce symptoms of chicken skin and provide increased relief from uncomfortable conditions associated with this condition.

Use aloe vera gel:

Aloe vera is a popular remedy for treating various skin irritations, including chicken skin. It has anti-inflammatory and otherwise cooling properties which are deeply soothing for dry, sensitive skin. The gel derived from the aloe vera plant should be applied directly to affected areas of the skin and gently massaged in. This will work to reduce both redness and irritation that can often accompany chicken skin.

Using aloe vera regularly is an essential step towards effective and lasting management of this condition because it works as an antioxidant, protecting against oxidative stress, which can cause further damage to already sensitive skin. Allowing aloe vera gel to rest on the surface of the skin at least once per day can lead to reduced itchiness, improved texture, and fewer outbreaks over time.

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Drink plenty of water daily:

Proper hydration of the skin is essential to restoring its natural balance when dealing with chicken skin. While moisturizing creams and treatments can help improve dry, itchy, and bumpy patches associated with chicken skin, drinking plenty of water daily is integral for internal and external healthy skin. When your body receives a consistent supply of water it helps detoxify the skin, delivers oxygen to all cells allowing them to regenerate efficiently, and regulates the body’s temperature – all of which are key for healing chicken skin. Be sure to drink at least eight glasses of water every day to avoid further dehydration of the skin.

These are just a few ways that you can manage and treat chicken skin. With the right combination of treatments, it is possible to control this condition and prevent flare-ups!

Jan10

Protect Your Home From Water Damage With These Tips

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Protect Your Home From Water Damage With These Tips

Water damage is one of the most common forms of property damage and it can be incredibly costly to repair. In many cases, water damage can be prevented by taking a few simple precautions. This post will discuss some tips that will help you protect your home from this usually avoidable damage:

Inspect your plumbing regularly:

Inspecting your plumbing regularly is one of the best ways to protect your home from water damage. This means checking that all faucets, shower heads, toilets, and other fixtures are in good working order. If you notice any leaks, replace the broken parts as soon as possible. You should also take a look underneath sinks and around plumbing fixtures for any signs of corrosion or blockage.

In addition to regular inspections from a Plumber in Grand Prairie, TX or your local area, make sure that you are aware of potential signs of trouble with your plumbing system. For example, if a toilet is running continuously or a faucet is constantly dripping, this could be an indication of a larger issue. Pay attention to higher than normal water bills—it could mean that there is a leak in your pipes somewhere.

Check your water heater:

Another important step in protecting your home from water damage is to check on the condition of your water heater. Make sure that you inspect all parts of the unit, including its temperature and pressure relief valve, anode rod, and any seals or gaskets.

Invest in preventive maintenance:

In addition to regular inspections and checks, investing in preventive maintenance can help protect your home from water damage. This may include having professionals come to inspect and clean out drains, pipes, toilets and other fixtures. Additionally, you should consider installing sump pumps or battery-operated back-up pumps in areas where there is a high risk of flooding.

Know the signs of water damage:

It is important to be aware of the signs of water damage in order to quickly identify and address any issues. Look for discolored or warped walls, floors, and ceilings as well as any abnormal odors or musty smells in your home. If you notice mold growth on surfaces around your house, this could indicate that there is an underlying issue with your plumbing system. If you see these telltale signs, you’ll want to search for “water damage chicago” or your local area to rectify things before they get worse.

Keep your roof in optimal condition:

Finally, one of the best ways to prevent water damage is to keep your roof in optimal condition. Inspect your roof regularly for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracked or missing shingles and other signs of aging. If you can’t do an inspection on your own, it is wise to call in a roofing expert to do a routine check. To find a professional for the task, simply enter a search for “Roofing contractor in Denton, TX” (or your local area) to get the process started. Using a local contractor can ensure faster response times and familiarity with regional weather conditions. Make sure that your gutters are clear of debris so that they can properly channel away rainwater from your home’s foundation and siding. If you notice any signs of damage on your roof, it’s important to call a roof repair company as soon as possible to come and have a look.

By taking these steps to protect your home from water damage, you can help avoid costly repairs down the line. Although some of these tips may require a bit more effort than others, they are all essential components when it comes to safeguarding your property against unwanted damage.

Featured Image By: Pexels

Jul5

3 Sports To Try Out This Summer

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3 Sports To Try Out This Summer

While the weather is nice, what better reason do you need to get active and try out a new sport. Not only will getting active help your mental health, but you’ll also get fitter and feel better. Depending on your goals, you could lose weight, build strength, or meet new people and make new friends.

When it comes to choosing a sport to try out, there are a plethora of options out there. If you enjoy being in the water, you could take up kayaking? Cycling is great if you want to work out on your own or American Football if you would like a team sport. Let’s discuss these further:

American Football – Team Sport:

Have you ever tried American Football? Instead of watching the pros play and coach like Joe Tumpkin, why not give it a go yourself? Football will get you outside, allow you to meet new people, and it’s great for your fitness. Your stamina will increase as well as your physical strength. There are many clubs out there that you can join, no matter your experience or ability. Most will offer trial sessions so that you can get a feel for the sport before committing to it more permanently.

Kayaking:

If you like being in the water, Kayaking could be for you. Kayaking will help build muscle strength and improve your stamina – Your back muscles will definitely get a workout. There are a whole variety of kayaks that you can choose from and different terrains that you can try out. Some kayaking clubs are based on the sea, while others are in rivers and lakes. You can also get single person kayaks or double kayaks if you want to bring a friend and take part together.

Cycling – Solo:

Not only is cycling good for your fitness but it is also very practical. Once you start to get the hang of cycling, you could cycle to work instead of getting the bus or driving – saving you money at the same time! You can cycle on your own if you prefer working out solo or there are cycling clubs that you can join. It is recommended that you do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week and by cycling, you can easily achieve this.

The above are three examples of different types of sports you can take part in this summer, based on a team, solo, or being on the water. With a bit of research, you’ll find that there are so many more sports to take part in if you don’t want to try these options!

Featured Image By: Ray Piedra

May7

Lil Red’s Moving Pro Tips Pt. 2

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Lil Red’s Moving Pro Tips Pt. 2

Hello! Johnny and I had our big move last Saturday and it went as smoothly as it could have gone. However, there are definitely some things that I wish were done differently looking back. A few weeks ago, we looked at some pre moving pro tips and today, we are going to focus on the actual move itself. Let’s get to it:

Eat, Drink, & Be Merry:

One of both mine and Johnny’s biggest downfalls of the day was that we didn’t eat enough prior to getting our keys. While Johnny had a snack, I had nothing and I SO wish that I would have made a big breakfast for us. Rather, we chose to sleep in and that was a mistake. Having a good meal before the move seems like a no brainer but it’s honestly an easy thing to bypass when so many other things are happening that day. Do make sure to eat your fill before the move so you can avoid getting lightheaded, which is what happened to me!

And, of course, drink water, water, and more water. If your dishes are already packed up, it will help to have a travel mug handy that you can keep refilling. Even if your move is on a fairly chilly day like mine and Johnny’s, you’ll find yourself sweating very quickly and that fluid needs replenished. Our rule of thumb was to take a water break at least twice an hour to keep ourselves firing on pretty much all cylinders lol.

Move Boxes Accordingly:

Johnny and I moved in one day and our morning was cut short because we could only pick up our keys at ten. Had this been different, I would have been much more proactive about moving the boxes into the room they needed to be in as soon as they left the car. I tried to do this as much as possible but with our time crunch, it was easier to just put boxes into a spare room.

If this is the case for you, that’s totally fine… Just make sure you label the boxes! This is also something that Johnny and I didn’t do and it hasn’t cost us too much grief but it’s enough to be annoying. I packed up almost everything in the apartment so I have a fairly good idea of where things are. The stuff that Johnny packed, however, is a different story!

Ask For Help:

Moving is a big job and outside help is a necessity, whether that be in the form of hiring movers or assembling friends and family. Johnny and I hired Two Men And A Truck for our furniture and we would have been nowhere without them. Hiring movers can be expensive, which is why Johnny and I cut costs by moving everything else by ourselves. We were wishing all day that we had them move all of our boxes too, though!

My mom was also kind enough to come over and help with cleaning tasks so that Johnny and I could focus on getting boxes to the new apartment. This was a HUGE help because all I had to do was sweep up once we cleared out our old place. Then, one of our friends came by later in the evening to help set up some of our furniture and get our mattress on the bed. All of this additional help was much welcomed and so very appreciated especially considering how exhausted Johnny and I were.

If you have the budget to hire movers, then it can save a lot of stress and time too. Especially at the end when you’re tired and those boxes need to be taken to the right rooms! Besides professional movers, a self storage unit can also make things a little easier when moving house, especially if you’re concerned that you won’t have enough space in your new property or don’t want (and need) to exchange one cluttered space for another.

Set A Time Frame:

One thing that Johnny and I did really well when it came to our move was setting a time frame that we wanted to be done by. We both agreed that if we were done by around six, then that would be ideal. The day was a mad dash but we did finish everything by the time we wanted and that was a huge relief. You don’t have to have a set in stone schedule but a general idea of when the task should be done will help you keep your pace up throughout the day.

Despite some hiccups during moving day, I don’t think it could have gone any better with all things considering. I am so happy to be in our new place! 😀

What are some of your moving pro tips? Did anyone help you when you moved? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May5

Don’t Forget These Essentials For Your First Day At Work

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Don’t Forget These Essentials For Your First Day At Work

Is there anything more exciting yet nerve racking than starting a new job? It is important to start as you mean to go on, so having a good first day is crucial for your confidence and the impression you create on others. The last thing you want to do is get to your job and realize that you have forgotten something important. With that in mind, read on to discover the essentials you need for your new job.

Office stationery:

It is highly likely that your office will have its own supplies, but there is no harm in coming prepared. It means you won’t have to ask anyone to point you in the direction of a stapler or some pens. It is a good idea to buy a container so that you can keep all of your stationery organized on your desk. There is no need to go all out and spend too much when starting your new job, but a few basic essentials will come in handy.

Business backpack:

Of course, you are going to need a stylish bag to keep all of your belongings in. A smart business backpack is a good choice. You will have more than enough space for all of your essentials, and different compartments so that you can keep things organized.

Water bottle:

Keeping hydrated throughout the day is so important. If you are lacking hydration, your brain won’t be able to focus properly, and this will result in a sub-par performance on your first day. By having a filled water bottle on your desk, you will instinctively drink without even thinking about it.

Deodorant:

Your first day is bound to be a bit stressful and nerve racking. When feeling stressed, the body responds by sweating. The last thing you want to do is feel uncomfortable and sticky all day long. Take some deodorant in your bag with you.

Hand sanitizer:

We have all had to have at least one Covid test over the past couple of years. Keeping safe and healthy is important, so it makes sense to put some antibacterial hand gel in your bag too.

Lunch:

It is always a good idea to take lunch with you on your first day. You don’t know how your breaks are going to be split up during the day, and you may not have anywhere to buy lunch nearby. Of course, if you do, and your co-workers invite you for lunch, do take them up on it so you can get to know everyone.

Come prepared with these essentials on your first day of work for one less thing to stress about!

Featured Image By: Freestockphotos

Feb23

Tips For Making The Best Coffee At Home

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Tips For Making The Best Coffee At Home

A lot of people hit the coffee shop for a freshly brewed cup during the day. But what about those times when you’re at home and need a caffeine burst? Brewing your own cup of joe can save you money and time, but with so many methods and flavors out there, how do you know which way is best? We have outlined ten tips that will help you make better tasting coffee from the comfort of your very own kitchen:

Grind Your Beans Just Before You Brew Them:

Freshly ground coffee is the best way to ensure that you’re getting the freshest flavor possible. Coffee starts to lose its flavorful oils as soon as it is ground, so using ground up coffee will give you a subpar taste. If you can’t grind your own beans, try searching for a grocery store, cafe, or supplier that specializes in Coffee Supplies. These websites can be an invaluable tool for stepping up your coffee game as you’ll be able to obtain the appropriate products to begin grinding coffee on your own.

Use Filtered Water:

If your water tastes bad, so will your coffee! Make sure to use clean cold water without any hidden odors of chlorine for the best results. If you don’t like the taste of tap water (or don’t have access to safe drinking water), bring filtered or bottled spring water to a slight boil and cool it for a couple of minutes before pouring it over your coffee grounds.

Avoid Grounding Beans In A Machine With Metal D Blades:

Ground up metal is not going to taste very good! Invest in a blade free or a burr grinder, which will ground all of your beans easily and consistently.

Clean Your Machine Often:

Coffee oils build up in household coffee makers quickly, creating an intense flavor that can be nearly impossible to clean out completely after every use. Make sure to keep the machine clean by running through several cycles without any coffee in it at all. A good rule of thumb is to clean it once a week or after ten uses, whichever comes first.

Avoid Over Filling the Basket:

Coffee machines are measured by how many cups they hold but, if you’re filling the basket with too many beans, you’re going to end up with watered down coffee that lacks flavor. Generally, one rounded tablespoon for every four ounces of water in your machine will produce an optimal cup of coffee.

Grind Your Beans To The Right Consistency:

It may be tempting to grind your beans to an incredibly fine powder so that more oils get trapped. However, this can create a gummed up mess in your grinder and lead to an over extracted cup of coffee. A slightly course grind will lead to a smoother cup of coffee with less grit.

Temperature Matters:

Water temperature is crucial in coffee brewing because it takes away any unpleasant, bitter flavors before the flavor has a chance to develop. In order for your water to be at an optimal temperature, bring it to a boil and let it cool for 30 seconds before pouring over the ground beans.

Get a Coffee Server:

Making coffee can be time consuming, but if you invest in a coffee server to keep your pot warm all day long, you’ll never have to waste the whole pot again. Instead, just pour yourself a cup whenever you want one! Buy the Hario Pour-Over Coffee Server Set to get started.

Skip the Sweeteners:

Coffee is a great way to clear up your skin, detoxify your body, and provide your brain with an energy boost so don’t ruin all of those benefits by adding in creamers or sugars that will increase your calorie intake and reduce the health benefits. Instead, try using natural substitutes like honey or maple syrup to add flavor without all of the empty calories.

If you’re looking to take your morning cup of joe up a notch, try these tricks for making the perfect pot every time. Cheers!