Family Ever After Blog

Family Ever After Blog

Archives for May 2020

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4 Fun Activities to Do During Quarantine

Being stuck in the house for long periods of time can make one extremely bored and lethargic. Most people have been feeling this way during lockdown because they’re still adjusting to their new routines.

Nevertheless, you don’t have to be bored at home. There are so many fantastic activities that you can do that are fun and unique. Today we’ll be going through four entertaining activities you can do during your lockdown.

1. Virtual Site Seeing Around the World

Have you ever wanted to travel around the world to visit museums, famous amusement parks and landmarks? Now you can visit any place you want in the comfort of your own home using virtual platforms.

It’s time to embrace a new way to see the world with virtual tours. Thanks to the internet you’ll have the opportunity to see Easter Island and trips around Europe’s most famous castles. You can explore opera houses and even live stream the northern lights.

Simply search for any virtual tours online to start your journey.

2. Play Online Games

Playing online games is a popular way for people to unwind. The advantage of online gaming is that there is a genre for everyone. If you’re into role-playing games you may want to check out Skyrim or Guild Wars.

There are also online games that offer you rewards. Try your hand at making money on legit online casinos Canada, Australia and the USA have to offer.

If you simply want a relaxing game there are virtual cross-stitching apps that you can download that are highly therapeutic to play too.

3. Learn How to Bake and Make Cocktails

Being stuck in quarantine is the perfect time to learn how to make your favourite foods and beverages. More people are channelling their inner chef by making the most elaborate cakes and cocktails.

Learn these new skills through YouTube or cooking sites. Take a look at My Cupcake Addiction on YouTube for some tips and tricks on how to make the most delectable baked goods. Or watch videos from the Tipsy Bartender to learn how to make unique cocktails.

4. Do the Bob Ross Challenge

Bob Ross was a famous painter in the 80s and he had his own TV show to teach people how to paint. His entire series can be watched on YouTube. Ross said that anyone could paint using his techniques. So now it’s inspired the Bob Ross challenge.

All you have to do for the challenge is pick one of his tutorials and try to paint the picture the way he shows you how in the video.

Many YouTubers who can’t paint successfully completed their challenges and all of their pictures look almost identical to Bob’s paintings. This proves that Bob’s theory was correct that anyone can paint if they follow his techniques.

Final Thoughts

Don’t allow lockdown to get you down. Use our four activities to keep yourself entertained during quarantine, social distancing and other challenging times in life you’re stuck at home. Enjoy all this free time you have to play and have fun.

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Are Solo Yacht Charters Worth it?

Though the idea of going on a vacation solo hiring a charter yacht all by yourself seems thrilling, it is good to understand the idea first. Whilst you might be the most enthusiastic outdoors person in the world, you need to be realistic about what it requires before you venture out into the sea – at times having a crew or a professional skipper means a good help.

That also means being honest to yourself about your sailing abilities, this is not great for beginners. You can go on a yacht charter holiday in the most relaxed manner if you are good with the knowledge and the experience, but sometimes it’s worth paying that extra bit of money to get a professional skipper on board too.

A Good Tradeoff between Solo and Crewed

Usually, it is enough to have just one person to help steer and manage the beam and sails at the same time. If at least one member of the bareboat charter yacht has a skipper’s license or proof of sufficient experience, it is enough for the sailing holiday. However, some countries might need more than that to legally allow you off the shore. For example, Greece is a country that requires at least a second member to have a skipper’s license.

  • To go into unchartered waters is always a big deal, but a week-long exploration in the waters can be tiresome as well.
  • Having a helping hand is a great thing so you can rest assured your sailing trip is fine and dandy.
  • Small trips are usually not a big thing, but cruise or week-long yacht holidays must have at least a second person on board.

Sit Back and Relax

If you are on a vacation the last thing you’d need is to worry about whether, engine, water pumps, treatment, sails, steering the yacht and more. If you have a skippered or crewed charter yacht vacation, you can simply sit and relax. This is an absolute for family vacations or couples. You could learn some sailing from experts and then venture out with your partner if that is more preferred? Go for a more relaxed holiday whenever in doubt or not fully prepared, and this is always a great decision

  • Sailing in some waters is easy. The Mediterranean is one with constant good weather and waves but cruising in colder and stormy conditions can be risky.
  • Take into account your routes, tidal changes, nearest stops, and more when you’re going solo or with a partner.

Choice of Charter Destinations is Critical

When seasoned and professional skippers are on board they can spontaneously make decisions and make modifications on travel routes based on the current situation. You have to bear in mind the charter season, the distances between the mooring and anchoring spots such that the holiday and the sailing are fun and not tiresome.

  • Managing supplies is always dependent on the route, duration, and weather.
  • Taking help of critical supplies also involves having professionals on board.

Finally, take into account your preferred charter regions before venturing out into the sea. For example, if you’re going on a sailing holiday in the Balearic Islands in July, it is likely to rain, so having the proper charter yacht is also critical.

 

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How to Play Online Slots Successfully

Incredible varieties of themes, genres, bonus features, paylines, jackpots and so on, make it nigh on impossible these days to not find an online slot game you love to play. There is quite literally for game for everyone and anyone. (To explore these games, check out the impressive range over at Gold Rush Slots.)

More experienced slots players are often comfortable with their own game preferences and have their own style of gameplay. Some opt for choosing a slot game and continuing to play until a significant prize comes their way; believing that eventually their final win will compensate any accumulated losses. Other players change games following every win, small or large, with the belief that this method is the most rewarding.

In fact, neither strategies can be considered highly effective. The best way to win while playing casino slots online is to utilise your own experience, remain focused and make your own informed predictions. Here are some useful hints and tips to get you started.

Choose Your Game Carefully

The most important thing to remember that you’re playing online slots for fun. Ensure the experience is enjoyable by selecting a game you really like. If you enjoy it, you’ll stick with it and are more likely to be engaged and play the game well. If you like swash buckling adventures try pirate slots, if you prefer myth and legends the why not try wizard slots, the choice is endless. Be guided by your own personal tastes and preferences when it comes to themes, features, colours, etc.

Set a Budget – and Stick to It

There a couple of things to do before you start playing. First up, set your budget. This is your finance limit, and one that you’ll stick to. This is to ensure that the recreational activity of online gambling remains fun; the moment you start spending what you cannot afford, the hobby has gone beyond light entertainment and fun.

Do Your Research

Secondly, before gameplay, study the game. It’s better to start off well-equipped; knowing how the game works, how to trigger the bonus features, etc., places you in good stead for grabbing that win. You should always familiarise yourself with the Return to Player value and the number of paylines too, so you can weigh up your chances of a win.

Keep Focused

The previous tips, if followed, will also help you to remain calm and focused while playing, as you’re more likely to be enjoying your experience. However, when you lose, it can be too easy to become frustrated, anxious, stressed or even angry. Accept that losses will always occur. Focus on this; you can’t win if you don’t ever lose. If you’re trying to keep calm and focused but the negative emotions are getting the better of you, perhaps it’s time for a break or a different game.

Final Thoughts

Strategies based on magic or superstition unfortunately do not work when it comes to online slots. To play at your very best, follow the tips listed above, use your head, stay focused and within your budget, and most importantly, have fun. After all, that’s what it’s all about.

 

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The 6 Most Common Expenses for First-Time Homebuyers

Buying a home for the first time? You may be in for a surprise as you start getting deeper into the process. Buying a home involves working with many different institutions and specialists for the first time, and by the end of it all, you may even end up paying slightly more than the home value. What’s the best way to stay ahead of these expenses?

Here are some of the most common expenses first-time home buyers should be aware of.

Closing Costs

Closing costs can catch many first-time homebuyers off guard. Outside of your mortgage loan, closing costs include all of the upfront costs for home purchase including inspection fees, HOA dues, home insurance, warranties, and recording fees. Often times, you may pay some percentage of your closing costs at the beginning of the process with “earnest money” to confirm your commitment to starting the homebuying process.

These costs are generally around 2% to 5% of the home’s value. Consider negotiating with the seller to pay part of it.

Home Maintenance

Ongoing home maintenance costs are another expense many first-time homebuyers may find surprising. Unlike in rented spaces where the landlord takes care of repairs and renovations, when building your own home, you are the one responsible for all maintenance.

The average yearly cost of home maintenance is around 1% to 2% of the home’s purchase price. The first year tends to be more costly than the preceding years.

Some of the most common home maintenance costs include gutter cleaning, pressure washing, carpet cleaning, and lawn services. The total costs of these services vary location by location and with the age of the home.

Homeowners Insurance

Proof of homeowner’s insurance is often required when purchasing a home. Even though the plan premiums can be quite costly, it’s a critical part of protecting your investment.

There are several ways to save money on homeowner’s insurance. For example, you can try to bundle your new home insurance policy with your auto insurance carrier to reduce your monthly premiums. Get competitive quotes from multiple insurance companies. You can also seek out discounts as a result of your lifestyle or home upgrades: working from home, adding a security system, etc.

If you’re buying a home in a place prone to earthquakes, hurricanes, or other natural disasters, you might want to purchase additional coverage that may cost a little more at first, but will save you thousands of dollars in the event of a disaster.

Utilities

Even first-time homeowners aren’t strangers to utility costs, as even renters pay utilities. The big difference is that the landlord might cover some expenses for the rental as it remains their property. With a home, you are responsible for covering all utilities, including water, gas, internet, phone, and electricity.

Utility costs vary by location and municipal laws. Research the neighborhood you’d like to move to so you can generate estimates for the water bill, garbage, etc. You can even reach out to residents around the area to estimate how much your monthly utilities might cost.

Property Taxes

Every state charges property tax to homeowners, and the value of the property tax varies per state. It will also depend on the type of house and municipality. Talk to your agent when assessing the home before the purchase to ensure that you are comfortable with the rates. If you feel like your property taxes are too high for the value of the home, you can appeal your property tax bill at your local tax office.

The Bottom Line on Homeowner’s Expenses

Even though first-time homeowner expenses can pile up quickly, staying informed and ready helps manage them. Calculate all the possible costs, and then find the ideal financing to achieve your dream of homeownership.

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Utilizing the technology very well with the help of video interview software

With the help of advent in technology, the whole hiring process has become highly streamlined. The video-based interviews have now become very much popular in the whole business world and have enabled the best screening of the candidates. Using the video interview software, the organizations can achieve a large number of benefits.

Some of the most common benefits have been mentioned as follows:

1. They help in relieving the scheduling burden: There is a requirement of scheduling a proper interview when one to one face-to-face interviews are to be done. All the struggles are eliminated with the help of video-based interview software. They have relieved the stress from the organizations and made the whole process very much convenient. The problem of schedule not matching has been very well solved with the help of these software. They can also provide the benefits of a face-to-face interview and will help to screen the candidates in no time.

 

2. They have improved the tracking of performances: With the help of implementation of video-based interview software, the whole hiring process has become very much easy. This will help to choose and select the strongest candidates for the organizations who can add great value to them. The process of selecting the candidate has become very much successful with the help of the software and the efficiency, as well as productivity is highly increased. The goal achievement process has also become very easy with the help of the software.

 

3. They have added a high level of consistency to the whole process: When the managers ask the same questions to every candidate, the overall processes can go off the track. Therefore, the video interview software are highly important because they shuffle the questions and provide a new question to everybody which is very challenging from the candidate’s point of view. They have been very much successful in providing consistency across the whole process. There are predetermined questions for every candidate and the responses are recorded. This is easier for the managers to compare and then select the people and make decisions at the time of selecting the people for organization.

 

4. They help in creating a convenient overall experience: A lot of individuals appear for interviews only so that they can have an experience, but they are least interested in the actual job. With the help of implementation of video software, the whole process can be done very easily. A lot of efforts can be saved as the aspirant employees do not need to travel to the offices of the organization to appear for an interview. All these things can be done within 15 to 20 minutes. This provides high-level of convenience to the candidate as they can perform on the video by sitting at their phone places only.

 

5. This software help in making the best decisions: The organizations have to incur a lot of expenditure when they call people to appear for an interview. They can include paying for their meals and hotel expenses. Businesses that use this video-based interview technology have eliminated all these costs and saved a lot of money. One can invite anybody at any time to appear in a video interview. All the expenses will be saved, and this will help to provide a more in-depth conversation with the individual so that best decisions can be made.

 

6. One can also just see the command of candidate over the technology: In this way, it will be very much clear that a particular candidate has a good command over the technology or not. The video-based interview software helps to check this skill very easily and in an unfamiliar manner. In case there is any issue with audio systems, then one can check the skills of the candidate if he or she can solve them or not. This would help in providing a good idea about the existing skills of the candidate and then deciding whether to hire him or not.

 

7. It will help in reducing the formalities: Whenever an individual appears for an interview, then usually, there are a lot of formalities like starting with some basic things and doing a lot of chitchat. All these formalities will be eliminated in the video conferencing and hiring managers will directly come to the point. This will help in saving a lot of time of the candidate as well as the hiring manager. This will also help in removing the element of delay from the whole process and managers can utilize their time saved to other important activities. This will also help in making better decisions in the most efficient manner.

 

8. It will also help in observing the body language of the candidate: This is the biggest disadvantage of the telephone-based interview that one cannot judge the body language of the candidate. But all thanks to technology, this thing has been possible with the help of video interview software. The facial expressions and overall experience can be visible with the help of the software and one can judge that if particular people are fit for the organization or not. This will also help the hiring manager to have a proper idea about the personality of the candidate so that the best decisions can be taken.

 

9. It will help you invest time into best people: With the help of implementation of video interview software, the time-consuming element will be eliminated. There will be no wastage of time because of talking with everybody and one will be talking to the person who is valuable for the organization. This will help the candidates to reach the final stages very easily and in no time.

 

The video-based interview software helps to utilize the technology in the best possible manner so that the best hiring can be done. All the candidates who are afraid to take challenges will be eliminated from this and the best ones will remain who will add great value to the organization. The software helps to provide a large number of advantages to the job seekers as well as to the job providers.

 

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The Rise of CBD For Pets

CBD has become the talk of many petowners in recent years. Some people know it as cannabidiol, and it is indeed related to the cannabis plant. The main thing you need to know is that many people use it to relieve some symptoms caused by diseases, like scoliosis and inflammation of the joints.

That is the main reason why people use cannabidiol oil, but there’s much to learn about it.

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Talking About Cannabidiol and Its Uprising

Cannabidiol is mostly produced with the hemp plant, which is related to the cannabis plant in a certain way. They both contain similar compounds, yet cannabis is well known for containing higher levels of THC, which is the reason why people use it for recreation since it usually gets people high.

Although cannabis can also be used for medical reasons, some people might not want the idea of getting themselves and their pets high, so cannabidiol is recommended. You see, cannabidiol merchandise tends to have a strict regulation: they cannot contain 0,4% THC or more.

This makes it pretty safe for both people and animals. Animals can’t stand THC the same way humans do, so this is very important to keep them safe while consuming said products.

Thanks to the acceptance and the fame CBD has obtained through the years by people claiming it to be a miraculous alternative to traditional medicine and drugs, the industry is expected to grow quite a lot during the coming years. If you are interested in its early years and uprising, I recommend you to check the article mentioned in this segment. https://www.medgadget.com/2019/11/cbd-market-growth-statistics-cost-structure-analysis-sales-projection-future-insights-and-global-cbd-industry-analysis-by-2026.html

Still, Some Questions Remain Unclear

Something you need to know about it, though, is that research focused on CBD, its benefits, side-effects, and efficiency is still far from complete. Even more when it comes to animals and pets.

Research has been done proving that it can help people with epileptic seizures, and some facilities have started to use it to help people deal with pain during the recuperation of several diseases like cancer and kidney complications. It doesn’t help them recover faster, but it helps them relieve their pain.

There’s Lot of Proof Online Though

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The main reason why most people, including pet owners, are willing to trust CBD related products is because of its sudden uprising at online stores. If you look for reviews and testimonials, you’ll find several people claiming that it has helped them with their problems, including pain, anxiety, insomnia, and inflammation.

For pet owners, CBD can help their pets with a wide range of symptoms. Senior dogs, for example, are prompt to suffering from inflammation and joint pain. This can affect their mobility, which can be slowly recovered thanks to cannabidiol.

Is It As Safe As People Portrayed It?

There was a study conducted in people suffering from epileptic seizures. This study revealed that, out of 214 patients, they reduced seizures by up to 32%, and only 12% of the subjects suffered from side-effects.

In comparison to the side-effects caused by long-term use of drugs aiming to provide similar benefits, the after effects of consuming cannabidiol oil during this research were pretty harmless. Some of them suffered from diarrhea and vomiting, while others just had dry mouth, anxiety, and a lack of appetite.

These side-effects were easily controlled by reducing the dose, though, so knowing which dosage is the right one will help you avoid them.

Now, when it comes to pets, research is long from being clear about its effects. People online claim that the side-effects are pretty similar that those produced in humans, though, which gives you a clear idea of how great it is in comparison to drugs.

Is It Legal?

Most places in the US allow the use of medical CBD. It is the same for pets. You can even find different variations of products such as dog and cat treats. If you are interested, you should view this website to know more. It contains a lot of useful information that might help you understand it better. You can also ask any questions regarding its legality if you have them.

Is There Any Difference Between CBD Oil for Humans and Animals?

There’s little to no difference, to be honest. The benefits are pretty much the same, but it is recommended that you use products aimed for animals when talking about your pets, just in case.

Little Advise

As a personal recommendation, if you are first-timer, you should try using treats and food instead of oils. Ointments for inflammation and joint problems are great, too.

You see, most side-effects caused by CBD products are caused by a miscalculation in the dosage. There’s a lot to consider when it comes to the dose, like size, weight, breed, and diet. Since dog treats are way more manageable, deciding for the right dose can be much easier.

Starting with a small dosage and going from there as a guiding line will help you out when deciding how much you should give to your pet. Larger breed of dogs should consume more, while small breed of dogs and cats should start with really small doses.

Keeping your pet hydrated and well fed will help you reduce the risks of it suffering from after effects, and being attentive about the behavior of your pet will help you notice any weird or unusual hint that might lead you to think that something is wrong. You should be really attentive during the first week since it is the trial period. After that, you’ll probably have managed to get the right dose, so no problems should arrive.

 

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Can You Get a Better Divorce Settlement If Your Spouse Is Cheating?

No one wants to deal with a cheating spouse. Their actions are ruinous and difficult to come back from, even for the most forgiving people. If you’re finished with their lies and infidelity and are ready for divorce, there are a few things you should consider. For example, you may be able to get a better divorce settlement if your spouse has been cheating. Not everyone can, but there are a few special circumstances where the court will rule in your favor. Nothing is ideal about this situation, but coming out on top after what your spouse has put you through will certainly feel like a win. Here’s what you need to know to get more money.

Prove it!

You might not even have the proof yet that your spouse is cheating. In that case, your speculation won’t hold up in a court of law. You need hard evidence that your suspicions are warranted. One of the best ways to catch a cheater is by using Go Look Up. If you ever get an alone moment with your spouse’s phone—which may be difficult if they’re actually being untrue—you can use this online information search engine to see if his contacts are listed under their true name. You might be surprised that “Bob” is actually “Jill,” and you may finally know the name of the person they’re cheating with. From there, you can go through texts, and you might find something very incriminating.

Check your coffers.

It’s difficult to get more money if your spouse cheated, even if you have the sympathy of the judge. However; make sure you take a rummage around your savings accounts to see if everything adds up. By carefully going through everything you’ve spent and the times when you’ve pulled from your accounts, you may notice some missing money. If your spouse has been spending extravagantly on his mistress—or her lover—you may be able to get some of that money back, resulting in a better settlement. Once you’re free from the money burdens your spouse brought upon you, make sure you’re picking a brand-new savings account with a high-interest rate. That way, any money you get in the settlement grows quickly, as the memory of your cheating spouse diminishes.

FamilyLife@FamilyLifeToday

Co-parenting is a complicated dynamic after divorce. But in the midst of a pandemic that drags on endlessly, blended family couples have to cope with mounting stress and uncertainty on how to manage the back-and-forth routine with kids. http://ow.ly/padH50zoKRb 

Blended Family Stress During the Pandemic | FamilyLife®

My heart grieves as friends describe new struggles and blended family stress during the pandemic. It feels like too much to manage some days, doesn’t it?

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What about the kids?

One of the other ways you may be able to get a better settlement is if you can prove that your partner has been a negligent parent. If you can make it obvious that your spouse no longer gives his or her children what they require, you may be able to get more custody. Having more custody will give you the ability to ask for a greater monetary number for child support. Make sure if it comes to this, that you’re acting out of what’s best for the children and not out of spite for your partner. Divorce is difficult for everyone, but especially for children. Try your best to use the money supplied by child support on your children.

Call it early, like a celeb.

If you’re already married and your partner is cheating, this might not apply to you. Although, if you’ve yet to tie the knot, and are worried about your money, consider getting a prenup that includes an Infidelity Clause. Right now, this is quite popular with celebrities. An Infidelity Clause allows you to name an amount of money that is owed to you if your spouse is caught cheating before you ever even walk down the aisle. It might seem cold to put legal qualifiers on a marriage, but if you catch your spouse being unfaithful, you’ll be grateful you gave yourself an exit strategy.