Guest Post: Gift Baskets For Pet Lovers

 

Gift Baskets For Pet Lovers

Whether you are shopping for a pet owner or professional, you can never go wrong with a pet gift basket. The gift baskets allow you to show your recipient how much you care about them or appreciate their hard work. If you are shopping for pet gift baskets, here are several ideas that fit any occasion.

Pet Lover Care Package

The Pet Lover Care Package is a great idea for every pet owner and their beloved pet. It comes with a pack of chocolate chip cookies for your recipient. The gift also includes two gourmet biscuits for their dog, and their cat is sure to enjoy a fun mouse toy. Everything comes arranged inside an adorable pet themed box.

Great Pawsome Friends Gift

The Great Pawsome Friends Gift comes in three sizes to ensure it is big enough for everyone on the veterinarian, pet shelter or pet rescue staff. It includes cookies, butter toffee pretzels, tea and coffee. The gift basket also includes items for dogs and cats, from the cheddar cheese dog biscuits to the crinkle ball cat toy. Your recipients can find the items inside three paw print containers.

Dog Daze Dog Gift Basket

If you are looking for a gift basket designed just for pets, start with the Dog Daze Dog Gift Basket. The basket includes a gourmet dog biscuit and puppy cake mix. It also comes with peanut butter, beef liver, salmon and pineapple and pork dog treats. All the items are neatly arranged inside a yellow and white polka dot container.

Cat Fish Cat Gift Basket

Surprise your recipient with the Cat Fish Cat Gift Basket for their kitty. It comes with cheese cat treats, tuna cat treats and Fancy Feast Appetizers to keep them happy. The Zoom Stuffers Fat Cat Catnip Toy is sure to keep their kitty busy for hours. Everything comes arranged inside a green and white container with a matching green bow.

You can find amazing pet gift baskets for pet owners, professionals and their four-legged friends on Bisket Baskets.









Image Source: Pixabay


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Guest Post: Placing a Monetary Value on the Life of Your Animals

Placing a Monetary Value on the Life of Your Animals

If you are like most farmers and ranchers, you would say that the lives of your farm and ranch animals are priceless and that no value could be placed on them. In reality, a price can be placed on them, which is why you can buy farm and ranch insurance that will compensate you if one or several of them are lost to circumstances you could not control.

With that in mind, you need to think of a roundabout dollar figure before you shop for cattle, sheep, and horse insurance. The insurer can then create a policy that will be as close to that dollar amount for which you think your animals are worth if they are taken from you.


Creating a Realistic Policy

You may think your trusty ranch horses are worth a million dollars apiece because of how much sentimental value you place on them. However, it is unlikely you could get a policy written for this much unless the horses are show horses or used for stud services in the horse racing industry.

Instead, it is more likely you can have them insured for several thousands of dollars apiece, which in reality will be enough to compensate you for the loss of an animal you use for ranching or farming purposes. While you appreciate the animal as a companion, you also know the price for which you insure it can reasonably be enough to buy you another horse to replace it.

With that, you can shop for policies that will be reasonably created and priced on the website. The agent with the company can determine a legitimate value of the animals you want to insure. You can then pay the first month’s premium and get the policy issued the same day if you prefer.

The policy can be useful in all types of circumstances including fires, tornadoes, floods, and theft. You never know when disaster will strike your property or your farm or ranch animals, which is why you may want this protection in place as soon as possible.







Image Source: Pixabay

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Guest Post: Safety Tips for Dog Walkers

Safety Tips for Dog Walkers

• Refresh on the basics. It’s important to follow basic safety tips when going out for a walk with your dog. Always wearing reflective or bright colored gear, avoid going for walks during early morning and late evening hours and staying in well-lit areas that are near houses or stores in case you need to yell for help can all help assist in keeping you safe.

• Keep your guard up. It’s easy to fall into a comfortable groove if you take your dog for a walk on the same route every day, but assailants can choose any day to attack. It’s important to never get too comfortable, stay aware of your surroundings and trust your intuition if something feels off.

• Exude the right body language. Confident body language signals that you’re a tough target can deter an attack before it begins. Hold a posture with your back straight and chin up. Keep a balanced stance and walk with a sense of destination. Make eye contact to show that you’re aware of who/what is around you. And, keep your hands out of clothing pockets.

• Use assertive verbal skills. This reinforces confident body language and strength, and draws attention from bystanders. It can be accomplished by using short, clear, declarative statements. Volume can range from speaking firmly and clearly to yelling, depending on the situation.

• Physical training is ideal. Practicing how to fend off an attacker will help you feel empowered, strong and confident and the more often you can train, the better. Training will not only give you the physical skills necessary to defend attacks but also increase the effectiveness of your body language and verbal skills.

About Krav Maga Worldwide Founded in 1997 to promote Krav Maga throughout the United States and around the world, Krav Maga Worldwide trains and certifies instructors and licenses over 150 authorized Krav Maga Worldwide training centers in the United States, Canada, Japan, Mexico, South America, and Europe, as well as over 800 law enforcement agencies and military units. Krav Maga offers the highest caliber of instruction to thousands of people, supporting the company’s core commitment to improving and saving lives. Krav Maga Worldwide continues to develop, promote and implement self-defense and fitness programs. For additional information, visit: www.kravmaga.com.


Image Source: Pixabay
 
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Guest Post: 3 Juicing Recipes To Shake Off Pounds And Boost Your Energy

3 Juicing Recipes To Shake Off Pounds And Boost Your Energy

Getting motivated to lose weight isn’t a problem for some people.  

Staying motivated is often another story. When a diet doesn’t produce results right away, studies show people usually don’t stick with it. Setting the bar too high, too soon can lead to frustration and a fast exit of a regimen that might have in the long run reached the person’s goals.

“The best way to stick to a diet is to start with reasonable goals,” says Cherie Calbom, author of The Juice Lady’s Sipping Skinny (www.juiceladycherie.com) and a leading authority on juicing for health and detoxification. “And the best diets are those that don’t just lead to success in losing weight but also gain you health with the nutrients they provide.

“Good diets are as much about committing to change your internal landscape as they are about changing your outward appearance.”

Juicing, Calbom says, should replace one or two meals a day, not all of them. And one way to ensure someone sticks with a juicing diet, she adds, is to research a variety of recipes “to avoid getting stuck in a recipe rut, as people do when bouncing from diet to diet.”

With that in mind, Calbom offers three juicing recipes to add variety to the diet:  

Apple Cider Vinegar Fat Blaster
1 qt. purified water
2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar (raw)
2 tbsp. lemon juice
1 tsp. ground ginger
1 tsp. cinnamon
Dash of cayenne pepper
Several drops of stevia to taste

Mix all ingredients together. Drink a glass 20 minutes before a meal.  

Cinnamon Swirl
2 cups full-fat coconut milk
1 cup chopped apple
½ cup packed baby spinach
1 tsp. Ground cinnamon, or ½ tsp. Liquid cinnamon
Several drops of stevia
4-6 ice cubes
Add protein powder

Put all the ingredients in a blender and process until creamy.  

Rockin’ Green Smoothie
1 cup unsweetened almond or coconut milk
1 cup frozen berries (blueberries, blackberries, raspberries)
1 cup baby spinach
1 cup chopped kale or chard
½ tsp. pure vanilla extract
4-6 ice cubes

Combine all ingredients in a blender and process until smooth and creamy.  

About Cherie Calbom, M.S. Cherie Calbom, author of The Juice Lady’s Sipping Skinny , holds a Master of Science degree in whole foods nutrition from Bastyr University. She is author of 35 books, including The Juice Lady’s Anti-Inflammation Diet, The Juice Lady’s Big Book of Juices and Green Smoothies, The Juice Lady’s Turbo Diet, The Juice Lady’s Living Foods Revolution, The Complete Cancer Cleanse, and Juicing for Life with over 2 million books sold in the US and published in 23 countries. She has worked as a celebrity nutritionist with George Foreman and Richard Simmons, and has appeared on numerous radio and TV shows and in scores of magazine articles. She appeared on QVC for over 13 years with the George Foreman grill. Known as “The Juice Lady” for her work with juicing and health, her juice therapy and cleansing programs have been popular for more than a decade.


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Guest Post: 5 Options for People With Mental Illness Overcoming Substance Addiction

   

5 Options for People With Mental Illness Overcoming Substance Addiction

Overcoming addiction can be a difficult challenge, especially when coupled with mental illness. Mood disorders such as bipolar disorder or depression are associated with an increased risk of addiction and a large portion of individuals with mood disorders might already have problems with substance use.

There are many types of addiction treatment out there that can be tailored to specific life situations and circumstances. Here are the best treatment programs for people working to overcome addiction and what to consider if one has a co-occurring mental health disorder.

1. Inpatient rehab

Research has shown that patients who receive a clear diagnosis of their mental illness while in rehabilitation are able to be treated more effectively. Inpatient programs offer a good option because they often have extensive resources available that help to create a structured and supportive program that makes addiction recovery a clearer path.

Inpatient rehab can be a little daunting, so if you have a loved one struggling with addiction, help them recognize the benefits of doing inpatient rehab and how it will improve their treatment.

2. Holistic programs

Holistic addiction recovery programs work to integrate whole body or whole person approaches to addiction treatment. Some of them will include unconventional supplementary treatment options including yoga or art therapy. According to the Huffington Post, many holistic addiction recovery treatment techniques overlap with tradition approaches, while others work to integrate techniques from Eastern and Western medicine or philosophy.

3. Gender-specific programs

Studies have shown that the financial opportunities or general life responsibilities that differ between genders can contribute to different addiction-related behaviors and recovery outcomes. Programs that acknowledge and work with a particular individual’s approach to gender differences offer a promising approach. They can address some of the fundamental issues of identity and personhood that might contribute to addiction.

Gender-specific programs can be effective for some people. Some people feel the most comfortable being with others of the same sex and that comfort alone can help them progress in their treatment.

4. Programs for professionals and executives

Many business professionals and entrepreneurs seem to have a propensity for addiction. Finding a program that can help you work through your illness while continuing to make career progress might be something that is extremely important to you.

It’s also important to understand laws that protect you if you enter an addiction recovery program. For instance, the Family and Medical Leave Act protects individuals who are entering addiction recovery programs from losing their jobs. This can help with recovery, as individuals who have some structure in their life are able to recover more effectively.

5. Religious programs

According to the Washington Times, studies have shown that religious belief and participation are associated with a reduced rate of drug abuse and dependence. Most 12-step programs have some aspect of spiritual recovery as part of their program because it has a time-tested effectiveness. Getting at the spiritual root of addiction allows a person going through recovery to find solutions that fundamentally change their worldview and the way that they construct meaning.

Physicians can develop more detailed treatment strategies that are capable of disentangling the comorbidity of mental health problems and addiction. They can do this by examining how symptoms of mental illness or addiction present themselves or carefully consider how symptoms presented themselves in the course of drug use.

There are many different treatment options for overcoming substance abuse, and there’s no one right way to help one recover. If you or a loved one are looking into treatment, be patient as you figure out which treatment is right for you. It can take time, but it doesn’t mean you are a failure if a treatment didn’t work out for you. Just keep looking.

 Photo credit: Unsplash




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Guest Post: Tips for Pets with Fireworks Anxiety

 

Tips for Pets with Fireworks Anxiety 

 

AUSTIN—While pets may enjoy a few table scraps from Fourth of July picnics, backyard parties and barbecues, some show signs of anxiety during the holiday’s main event. Pets who experience fireworks anxiety not only suffer from the mental effects of anxiety but also are at risk of running away, destructive behavior and even injuring themselves. To help pets cope with anxiety and ensure the celebratory night goes smoothly for everyone, the Texas Veterinary Medical Association (TVMA) is sharing a variety of treatment options with pet owners.

One treatment approach, which often resolves the symptoms quickly, is veterinary-recommended medication. Commercially available pheromone products often are effective as well. Adaptil, a synthetic analogue of a calming pheromone for dogs, can help calm dogs in a variety of situations, and it comes in various forms including diffusers, collars and sprays.

Pressure wraps like the Thundershirt or Anxiety Wrap and supplements, such as l-theanine, may help some pets. L-theanine has shown to be beneficial for pets with sensitivities to noises like thunderstorms. Veterinarians can determine whether supplements are appropriate for your pet.

It’s also important to provide safe spots for pets during fireworks and ensure they have free access to these areas. Some pets seek spaces like closets or quiet, small rooms. An interior, first-floor room or closet may be more insulated to the sounds and light flashes of fireworks. Some owners find a white noise machine beneficial to block subtle to moderate sounds, and others report that playing classical music calms their pets. These and other treatment approaches apply to cats as well, who can also suffer from firework anxiety.

Finally, modifying a pet’s behavior through training can change the way it responds to the sound of fireworks. While behavior modification programs for firework anxiety are not always easy to implement on one’s own, many qualified trainers and behavior consultants can help tailor a protocol specifically for each pet. For information on behavioral consultants, visit these websites: www.dacvb.org, www.avsabonline.org, www.ccpdt.org and www.corecaab.org.

“Planning ahead can greatly reduce your pet’s anxiety during fireworks,” said TVMA member Amanda Florsheim, DVM, CBCC-KA, who owns Veterinary Behavior Solutions in Dallas. “Our goals in treating firework anxiety are not only to reduce anxiety but also to provide an appropriate environment during fireworks and to modify your pet’s behavior through training.”  

About the Texas Veterinary Medical Association

Founded in 1903, the Texas Veterinary Medical Association is a professional association composed of more than 3,700 veterinarians committed to protecting public health, promoting high educational, ethical and moral standards within the veterinary profession and educating the public about animal health and its relationship to human health. For more information, call 512/452-4224 or visit www.tvma.org.



Image Source: Pixabay  

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Guest Post: How Christianity Can Help You Overcome Addiction

The following is a guest post from Sharon Torres.

How Christianity Can Help You Overcome Addiction

There’s no doubt addiction has a stronghold on many lives in America these days. From the youth to middle-aged to senior citizens, plenty of people are struggling with addictions to alcohol, drugs, food, gambling, and more. It’s quite disheartening to say the least, but still, there’s always hope when you begin looking in the right direction.

Willpower isn’t normally enough to break the grip of addiction in one’s life. Most people cannot “will” themselves out of addiction, as there are real changes that occur in the brain chemistry of an addict. The drug(s) alter the way the neurochemicals act in the brain, and this can easily change the way you think.

For example, let’s say you’re addicted to alcohol. You may want to quit drinking, but your brain is telling a different story. You know alcohol is causing you problems, but your brain has been hijacked. It’s been rewired in a way that makes it think it NEEDS alcohol to survive, making it challenging for you to up and quit using willpower.

How Christianity Can Help You Beat Addiction

While there are various paths to recovery from addiction, Christianity is certainly a path that has freed many people from their drug of choice. By Christianity, I mean the path of following the ways of Jesus Christ, leaning on Him (and thus, God) for freedom from addiction.

Here are 4 keys to getting free from any addiction following the path of Christianity:

Admit That You’re In Over Your Head

The first step of the 12 Step groups talks about admitting one is powerless over their drug of choice. This admission is necessary. Admit to yourself and God that you’re not able to quit your drug of choice on your own. Admit that you need God’s help and consider telling those closest to you, such as your spouse or best friend.

Let go and Let God

Once you’ve admitted your addiction to God, asking for help, let go and let God begin working. It’s not always easy to give up your power or control, but God needs you to do this, so He can begin orchestrating the changes you desire in your life. If you’re struggling to let go, ask God to help you. Make prayer a daily habit, talking to God from your heart. There’s no right or wrong way to approach God, so just take the time to communicate with Him as often as you can. He wants a relationship with you.

Reach Out To Others For Help

Community is important, as the connections you can make with others can help you begin to heal and keep you from going back to your addiction. Some people find support groups helpful in their recovery efforts, such as the 12 Step groups Alcoholics Anonymous. There are 12 Step groups available for many addictions, including drugs, porn, sex, gambling, and more. Many people find support through attending a local church too. If you’re not attending a church, perhaps you can visit several churches in your area to see what resonates with you. Some churches have a support group called Celebrate Recovery, which helps people manage or overcome various addictions. Be sure to check if there is a group in your community.

Seek Christian Drug Rehab Centers

If you desire to attend a drug rehab center, check around for a Christian rehab. There you’ll be able to undergo drug treatment that is built upon a Christian foundation. You’ll also meet others who may have the same type of religious beliefs you have, and quite possibly make a friend or two.

Christianity and Addiction

If addiction has gotten a stronghold in your life, reach out for help today. Go to God in prayer, but also consider reaching out for face-to-face help via a treatment center, counselor, pastor, or support group. You don’t have to face overcoming addiction alone and there are certainly recovery paths that will help you get free.

God cares for you and is more than willing to direct you to your unique recovery path from any addiction. God’s plan for you is good. Allow Him to breathe new life into you as you begin walking your road to recovery.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 NIV

Sharon is a freelance writer who relishes a life of recovery.
https://sharontorreswriter.blogspot.com/

Image sources: Pixabay - Addiction, Freedom





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Guest Post: Questions to ask before you commit your money

Questions to ask before you commit your money   “I’ve spent 25 years investigating over 450 financial products and vehicles,” Pamela says. “I can tell you that, though these products were sparkly and seductive on paper, 99.9% of them didn’t stand up to scrutiny.” To protect your family’s financial future, you need to get answers to at least a few basic questions before you (and your money) jump in:

1. What is this product’s true track record over the long run? “Get performance figures verified by a third party, not claims in sales literature from sales literature.”
2. What guarantees does this product or vehicle offer? “If the answer is ‘None,’ run for the hills – unless you’re a thrill-seeker who’s prepared to lose his or her shirt.”
3. What fees are involved? “Even seemingly nominal fees can eat up much of your account value. According to the Department of Labor, fees of only 1% will devour 28% of your nest egg over 35 years, assuming a 7% annual return. But most people are paying more than 1% in fees in their 401(k)s, IRAs, and so on. The key is not to underestimate the long-term impact of fees, and to make sure you are aware of all fees you’re being charged.”
4. Who is recommending this to you? “Does your advisor have some vested interest in getting you involved in certain financial products? (And if so, did she disclose it up front?) Even if you’re dealing with someone who is financially savvy, do they really know your particular needs and situation well enough to be advising you?”

“To protect yourself and your family, I urge you to do your own due diligence before jumping on the bandwagon of any financial vehicle or product,” Pamela says. She also recommends asking these overarching questions when considering any financial product or advice:

• Will this advice or vehicle give me peace of mind and let me sleep at night?
• Will it help me get where I want to go without taking unnecessary risk?
• Will it allow me to be in charge of my money?

Pamela shares a time-tested saving strategy that allows people to answer yes to those three all-important questions. This method, known as Bank On Yourself, provides guaranteed growth, pays taxes in advance, and gives people access to their savings without restrictions or penalties whenever they need it. Most importantly, it allows people to know exactly how much money they will have upon retirement and every step of the way. About the Author: Pamela Yellen is founder of Bank On Yourself, a financial investigator and the author of two New York Times best-selling books, including her latest, The Bank On Yourself Revolution: Fire Your Banker, Bypass Wall Street, and Take Control of Your Own Financial Future. Pamela investigated more than 450 financial strategies seeking an alternative to the risk and volatility of stocks and other investments, which led her to a time-tested, predictable method of growing wealth now used by more than 500,000 Americans. For more information, visit www.BankOnYourself.com.






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Guest Post: There Are 4 Types Of Expenses, But Only 1 You Need To Cut

There Are 4 Types Of Expenses, But Only 1 You Need To Cut

Managing expenses is nearly a full-time – though unpaid – job for many people. From the monthly mortgage, car payment, insurance, groceries and utility bills to family activities, there’s a long list that requires prioritizing and discipline.

The situation can leave people feeling like they will never get ahead as their expenses seem to eat most of the financial pie chart.

But it’s a fallacy to think all expenses are evil, says a successful entrepreneur and angel investor. In fact, he says, nearly all of them are necessary, and if managed correctly, they can even help you win financial freedom.



“It’s critical to understand the difference between debt and liability,” says Nik Halik, also an adventurer, speaker and co-author of 5 Day Weekend: Freedom To Make Your Life And Work Rich With Purpose. “The goal isn’t to simply pay off all loans, but to maximize the efficiency and production of cash flow.

 “We’re taught to believe that expenses are bad and to cut them as much as possible, but that perspective is simplistic and misguided. In reality, there are four types of expenses, and only one of them needs to be cut.”

• Lifestyle (consumptive) expenses. These include dining out, vacations, concerts – fun expenses that help you build memories. “If you never spend any money, you won’t be fulfilled,” Halik says. “To pay for these expenses, never borrow and always use cash. Lifestyle expenses should be managed wisely.”

• Protective expenses. These are the expenses that protect your property, your life and your health. “This is the financial area that often gets overlooked – especially by the middle class,” Halik says. “Affluent people don’t compromise with their protection.” One example of a protective expense is your liquid savings, which Halik says should be enough to cover a minimum of six months’ expenses. Other protective expenses include life insurance, medical insurance and auto insurance.

• Productive expenses. Essentially these expenses symbolize the adage, “Spend money to make money.” Productive expenses, Halik says, “allow you to build assets, expand your cash flow, and grow your business. This could include purchasing rental property or hiring a great employee. These are expenses that are going to enhance your life now and in the future.”

• Destructive expenses. Halik saves the worst expense category for last. These are the only expenses, he says, that should be eliminated. “They include consumer debt, vices, overdraft fees, the gym membership you don’t use – anything that subtracts value from your life instead of adding it,” he says.

“When you understand the difference between true debt and mere liabilities, you begin to see that in many instances the way to become wealthier is to increase, not decrease, your liabilities,” Halik says. “A liability can come with an asset that can make you more money than it costs. Your goal isn’t simply to get out of debt, but to achieve financial independence.”  

About Nik Halik
Nik Halik is an entrepreneur, world-wide adventurer, angel investor, speaker and the co-author, with Garrett B. Gunderson, of 5 Day Weekend: Freedom To Make Your Life And Work Rich With Purpose. Nik has dived to the wreck of the Titanic, climbed some of the world’s highest peaks, and is a certified Russian cosmonaut. He has traveled to 149 countries and recently visited North Korea.

For more information, please visit 5 Day Weekend.

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Guest Post: Do's & Don't of Online Safety: Are You Unintentionally Putting Your Child at Risk?

Do’s & Don’ts of Online Safety: Are You Unintentionally Putting Your Child At Risk?

We all want our kids to stay safe online but with new technology emerging daily, it can be a bit difficult to know when you may unintentionally be putting your child in harm’s way. The dangers of online predators are growing; according to the FBI, “online predators are everywhere online” (Kempf, 2012).

I’m going to let you in on a secret.  Here are some of the most common mistakes parents make online that put their kids at risk — and tips for how to avoid them.

Take a moment to learn from these mistakes, and discover some new tips about how you can proactively play a role in your kid’s internet safety.

Mistake #1: Posting Pictures of Your Child Online

This is one of the top mistakes parents make (and can be even more harmful if made in combination with other mistakes on the list). “Posting photos of your kids creates a digital footprint—a kind of electronic paper trail—that forms their identities in a world they haven’t chosen to enter” (Common Sense Media, n.d.). Even if your child is older and has already established an online identity, it could still pose a threat.

Mistake #2: Disclosing Identifying Information

Posting information about your child and yourself online can leave you vulnerable to identity theft. Ensure that you are careful what personal information you choose to disclose; “A thief could piece together what might appear to be random bits of disparate information and use it to impersonate your child” (Hardy, n.d.). Even using your child’s real name could create vulnerability, so it may be wise to think about choosing a nickname for your child to use online.

Mistake #3: Not Adjusting Privacy Settings

Many social media sites offer privacy settings for the primary reason of keeping their users safe. Check out your accounts to ensure that only people you know and trust can see the information you post to the web. Some platforms, such as Facebook, even allow you to create specific groups within your privacy settings. This expands your options on who can see what your posting.

Mistake #4: Leaving Location Settings On

Did you know that on some social media sites such as Instagram may be sharing your location with strangers as well when you share a post? “If you leave your location settings on, there’s a location tag and you can hit it and the majority of people add their photos at home so you can pretty much guess where they live” (Carty, 2015). Before making any more posts on social media, you may want to make sure you turn off your location first, which can usually be found under the account settings option of any platform you’re using.

Mistake #5: Expressing Feelings of Vulnerability Online

Experts agree online behaviors that give, “an appearance of vulnerability-sadness, loneliness or anger-could invite unwanted contact from strangers” (Hardy, n.d.). You may want to refrain from revealing too much personal information about your child and family’s emotional state online. Avoid the risk of your child being contacted by online predators by using personal family information.

Mistake #6: Choosing a Simple Password

To avoid hackers, try to keep your passwords as complex as possible by avoiding including personal information and complete words. “One of the most basic hacker tactics is known as a ‘dictionary attack,’ where an automated program will attempt the words of the dictionary” (Hardy, n.d.). Get creative with your password by combining multiple words as well as adding numbers and special characters. Keeping your passwords secure will keep your kids safe and keep strangers away from your account, which may contain photos and other personal information about your child that you have only chosen to share with a limited number of people.

With the right privacy settings and knowledge of online safety, it is possible to share photos and experiences of your children with family and friends. If you’re ever unsure about whether an online action may be unsafe, always err on the side of caution and don’t follow through.

Click here for original article.

Other important resources:

A Comprehensive Cyber-bullying Guide for Parents

Cyberbullying: The Full Guide For Parents, Children & Schools

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Guest Post: Eric Lefkofsky: Enhancing Cancer Care Through Data Approach

The following is a guest post.

Eric Lefkofsky: Enhancing Cancer Care Through Data Approach

Since 2015, Eric Lefkofsky has been battling on the most effective approach on Cancer treatment. The CEO and co-founder of Tempus Labs leads the health tech company staff to tackle the complex disease using data approach. Cancer is a complex disease because it camouflages and poses as part of the body components thus protecting its cells from the body’s defense mechanism. Ordinarily, foreign elements in the body are detected and expelled by the defense system. However, the cancerous processes camouflage to be part of the normal body functions that gradually destroy the body cells.

The principal objective behind establishment of Tempus Labs is to improve care of cancer patients and loved ones. The diagnosis approach involves gathering, cleaning, and organizing data of different cancer patients for the purpose of optimizing care. Tempus Labs obtains information from top academic institutions as well as specific cancer treatment centers. Optimizing cancer therapy and treatment is the primary goal of Tempus Labs led by its CEO, Lefkofsky.

One of the challenges in cancer treatment is access to patient data by the physicians. For a long time, there has been a rift between storage and access of patient data. Access to such data is critical to therapy development because physicians can establish patterns and similar behavior of the cancerous processes thus prescribe suitable treatment. This is one of Tempus Labs’ fundamentals. The tech company strives to collect and centralize data through a machine learning platform. The platform integrates molecular data and clinical records. This enhances the cancer treatment approach considering therapy is more personalized.

According to Lefkofsky, molecular data is the primary basis of all manner of treatment in the field of medicine. Although it is as an integral approach in therapy, Eric Lefkofsky registers his dissatisfaction on the one-sided approach. Molecular data entails a patient’s RNA and DNA. Tempus uses analysis and sequencing method to obtain data from genes. Additionally, the molecular data is matched with clinical data to determine the best mode of therapy for a specific patient. The primary goal of Lefkofsky at Tempus is to initiate personalized medicine that has been an area of medical research for more than a decade. Gene sequencing and data analysis helps the Tempus staff to be precise in developing and prescribing medicine for cancer patients. According to Lefkofsky, the platform is not only for Tempus Labs but also available to neurologists and Oncologists.

Apart from Tempus, Eric Lefkofsky is also the co-founder of Echo Global Logistics, Light bank, InnerWorkings, and Uptake Technologies. Evidently, Lefkofsky has not only ventured in the health tech industry but also in transportation and logistics. Currently, he is a professor at the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business. He also served as a tutor at Northwestern University as well as at DePaul University.

Besides his investments and contribution towards Cancer care, Lefkofsky also engages in charitable activities. He is the founder of Lefkofsky Family Foundation, which he runs with his wife. The foundation drives initiatives in improving medicine, education, culture as well as the fundamental human rights. Lefkofsky and his wife are also key contributors and members of The Giving Pledge. In addition to this, Lefkofsky sits on the board of management of the Lurie’s Children’s Hospital of Chicago. He is also part of The Museum of Science and the Art Institute of Chicago trustee boards.

Image Source: Pixabay

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Guest Post: Overcoming Obstacles: Tips For Single Fathers On Maintaining Mental Health

Overcoming Obstacles: Tips For Single Fathers On Maintaining Mental Health

Photo via Pixabay by PublicDomainPictures

Being a single parent can take a toll on anyone, no matter how much they love their children. It’s extremely difficult--even under the best circumstances--to take on the role of both parents at once and make sure your child is well taken care of physically, emotionally, and mentally. When you add in the stress of making sure you yourself are taken care of, it can be overwhelming. Yet it’s important to make sure you practice self-care, especially when it comes to your mental health; this will not only prevent burnout, it will help you be the best parent you can possibly be.

The issue most single parents have is a lack of time. There never seems to be enough of it when it comes to relaxing, having alone time, or getting in some exercise, all of which are important for your mental health. Fortunately, there are some simple ways to make time in your life for everything that needs your attention. Below are some of the best tips on how to do just that, as well as how to make sure your mind and body are in good shape.

Get support

One of the easiest ways you can take care of yourself is by garnering support, either from friends and family or from a support group aimed at single parents. Having someone to talk to when things get stressful--or when you need advice--can be extremely helpful, and it will keep you from feeling alone or isolated as well.

You might also think about finding a therapist or counselor who can help if you’re feeling symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mood disorder. These are common afflictions for single parents and there is nothing to be ashamed of in asking for help. The way we eat, drink, love, and cope with stress, depression, anxiety, and sadness all play a big role in the state our mental health is in. Sometimes, it’s necessary to take a step back and ask yourself if you’re doing the right thing for you, and not the easiest thing. Read on here for tips on how to find support in your area.

Learn to cope in healthy ways

Another issue for single parents is learning to cope with stress in a healthy way. For many people, this isn’t an easy task, and for some, stress and anxiety lead to substance abuse or a dependence on alcohol. It’s important--for your child’s wellbeing as well as your own--to find healthy ways to handle those stressful situations. This might include finding a hobby you enjoy doing (or one you can do with your child, such as creating art or woodworking) or finding a new workout routine that allows you to release those pent-up feelings; for more great ideas on how to cope with stress and anxiety, head to Drugrehab.org.

Set a schedule that works

It can be difficult to work out a schedule that will allow you to take care of all your responsibilities, but it may help to talk to your employer and find out if the company can be flexible when it comes to the hours you work, especially if your child is young and needs to be picked up from school or has other commitments.

Stay social

It’s important to stay social as a single parent. Keeping those adult relationships can help you stay happy and give you an opportunity to wind down and have fun after a long week. If your schedule won’t allow you much time to yourself, consider asking a friend who also has children to meet up for a play date at the park; this way, the kids can go have fun and you can sit and have an adult conversation. New to the area and don’t know anyone? Head to the local bookstore for kids’ storytime and strike up a conversation with one of the other parents.

Remember that it’s also important to stay physically healthy, not only so you’ll feel better and have more energy, but so you can be the best father you can be for years to come. Find a routine that works and stick with it, such as walking around the neighborhood after dinner or going for a swim. Daily exercise--along with eating well and keeping stress at bay--can help you keep your mental health in tip-top shape.

Guest post by Daniel Sherwin of DadSolo.com




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Guest Post: Tried and True Tips for Beating Holiday Weight Gain

 

Tried and True Tips for Beating Holiday Weight Gain

FAIRFAX, Virginia – (November 15, 2017) – According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, over 60% of adult women in the country are considered overweight. While this is something to be concerned with all year long, it’s especially troublesome during the holiday season. Throughout the holidays at this time of the year, people are more prone to pack on a few extra pounds. The problem is that while the season is short, that weight gain can last a lifetime. Adding a few extra pounds every holiday season can lead to a big problem that puts people at risk for poor health.

“Most people are surrounded by lots of good, but unhealthy food choices during the holidays,” explains Coach Sarah Walls, personal trainer and owner of SAPT Strength & Performance Training, Inc., who is also the strength and conditioning coach for the WNBA’s Washington Mystics. “It’s so easy to overeat and consume more calories than you even realize. This is especially true at holiday parties and special dinners.”

According to the Calorie Control Council, the average American consumes over 4,500 calories and around 229 grams of fat during a typical holiday gathering. This includes the snacking, holiday meal, and desserts they may consume that day. The calories and fat can quickly add up, and with people grazing all day, they may not be aware of just how much it’s added up to.

Those who want to avoid holiday weight gain can, if they know a few tried and true tips that will help them successfully get through the meals. Here are a few effective tips that will help beat holiday weight gain:

• Manage your indulgences. Try small tastes of what you want to try, rather than having an entire serving. Keep good mental notes on what you've eaten and when. Sometimes it's easy to forget you had a big breakfast, went out to a holiday party at lunchtime, and are now at a friend's holiday party surrounded by eggnog and treats. If you remember those things, you may be more likely to naturally minimize the feeling of wanting to dive headfirst into the punch bowl.

• Pick and choose events. Just because you are invited to events does not mean you must go to them all. Be selective if you get invited to many, choosing the ones you really want to attend. Not only will this probably save on the over indulgences, but it will also allow you to slow down and not feel rushed all winter.

• Remember summer. It will be summer again, and sooner than you think. It is nice getting to wear warm, comfortable clothes, but don't let that lull you into thinking you'll be wearing them year-round.

• Eat ahead of time. If you have something small to eat before attending a party, you will be less likely to overeat once you are there. Make what you eat ahead of time healthy, such as some salad or raw veggies with hummus.

• Watch your choices. Holiday parties and dinners are filled with many options, but that doesn’t mean you can’t try to opt for the healthier choices. Look for lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and try to avoid drinking too much alcohol, which is loaded with empty calories.

• Plan ahead. If you know you will be going to a party or holiday dinner, try to eat healthy at your other meals throughout the day. This way you don’t sabotage your diet all day long. Also, avoid standing anywhere near the food in order to mingle with people. Doing that will put you in a position to unknowingly graze and pick up hundreds of extra calories.

“Even if you are diligent in maintaining your exercise program, you have to watch your food intake during the holidays,” added Coach Walls. “You can’t out exercise a bad diet. The food you eat and the amount of calories you consume play a huge role. You can get through the holidays without gaining that extra 5-10 pounds, but it’s going to take some effort.”

While it’s important to eat healthy all year long, it becomes especially so during the holiday season when there are so many temptations. Opting for healthy foods will help keep you feeling good, having high energy during what is often a stressful season, and will help you avoid weight gain. Healthy foods to include in your diet are those that are high in fiber and are nutrient dense, including fruits, vegetables, lean sources of protein, and whole grains. At holiday parties, look for the fruit and veggie tray and salads, and fill half of your plate with them, leaving only a little room for other options.

Sarah Walls has over 15 years experience in coaching and personal training. Owner of SAPT Strength & Performance Training, Inc, founded in 2007, she offers coaching to develop athletes, adult programs, team training, and has an online coaching program. She is also the strength and conditioning coach for the WNBA’s Washington Mystics, and has over eight years of experience working as an NCAA D1 strength and conditioning coach and personal trainer. To learn more, visit the site: www.saptstrength.com.

SAPT Strength & Performance Training, Inc.

Located in Fairfax, Virginia, SAPT Strength & Performance Training, Inc. is a high performance training club that specializes in helping to develop athletes of all ages. They offer athletic training programs for youth, college students, and amateurs. The company was founded in 2007 by Sarah Walls, a professional strength and conditioning coach and personal trainer with NCAA D1 experience, who is the strength and conditioning coach for the WNBA Washington Mystics team. To learn more, visit the site: www.saptstrength.com.

Sources:

Calorie Control Council. Stuff the bird, not yourself. https://caloriecontrol.org/stuff-the-bird-not-yourself-how-to-deal-with-the-3000-calorie-thanksgiving-meal/

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Overweight, obesity, and weight loss. https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/overweight-obesity-and-weight-loss

Additional Resources: 

If you would like to gain weight and build muscle, check out 

this resource: Gain Weight and Build Muscle By Eating the Right Foods

Image source: Pixabay.

Click image to see this book and more on Amazon.com! 

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