Rebecca Alston, Author at Mamas Like Me

Winning Father’s Day Gifts

While your man is doing a deep dive into his March Madness brackets, you have plenty of free time to start searching for his perfect Father’s Day Gift! I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but the days of gifting dad socks and a tie are long gone. And to be honest, there is no excuse for giving a tired, old gift idea at this point in the game. With so many fun and unique options on the Web today, it’s time for you to win your Father’s Day gift!

Here are some great ideas that we’ve come across that will knock his socks off! See what I did there? When you see the look on his face as he opens the box…well, you’re welcome!

Gift sets are all the rage these days, as they can be customized for that special man in your life. Whether your guy is a hunter, drinker, smoker, or into dress accessories, sites like Groovy Guy Gifts have customizable gift sets for all. And what’s cooler than unwrapping and seeing a classy gift box with your name on it that houses a great surprise?

Everyone knows a cigar guy! You know, the man in your life that would give it all up for some me-time on the porch, listening to the land while puffing away in tranquility. That guy probably has a wide variety of cigars to smoke, but does he have the fun accessories and cigar sets to go along with them? Between cigar cutters, torch lighters, humidors, and cases, there is a wide variety of presents that a smoker would love!

Flask with personalized dad caricature on it

Dad will certainly get a kick out of this unique gift! Imagine the look on his face when he takes a look at this humorous item. There are sites all over the internet that will turn your favorite photo into an amazing caricature of dad. This is far beyond socks and a tie and will be sure to bring a laugh each time he takes a swig out of this flask.

There are so many exciting whiskey gifts out there that dad would love. From all different types of decanters to stylish whiskey glasses, there’s something for everyone. What better present for a guy with a man cave than a classy whiskey set? If he enjoys a nightcap, then he’ll really enjoy these types of items for Father’s Day.

Is your dad a sports guy? One of the most unique gifts out there is the Louisville Chugger! An ideal combination of two great American pastimes, baseball, and beverages, this mug is a top-notch present. The feel of the classic wood in dad’s hand will remind him of his days on the ball fields. As nostalgia kicks in, so will his urge to take a sip and enjoy. Whether it’s the Louisville Chugger or another personalized sports gift, there are so many ideas out there to choose from.

Add to that Man Cave! If you’re ever stuck for a gift idea for dad or any man in your life, just think of ways to enhance his favorite chill spot in the house. Maybe it’s his basement-dwelling or his home office, but every guy has his personal nook. From wall decor to drinkware, there are a wide variety of unique gifts out there to bring his space to the next level.

Maybe you and dad don’t always see eye to eye, so this is the time to bury that hatchet! Parents and children are often in a tricky spot in life and look for ways to mend fences. A humorous gift like a personalized ax is the perfect way to start those conversations. Don’t let another year go to waste and find a way to get closer to dad. You’ll both be glad you did!

Cutting board — Personalized cutting board

The Chef! We all need one in the family. Guys love to grill and once a perfect slab of beef is prepared by dad, he’ll be looking for somewhere to carve it up. Personalized cutting boards are just what the cook ordered this Father’s Day. Dad will love this thoughtful gift and use it on many occasions. Functional gifts make the best gifts!

Cooler bag — A beer was placed next to the cooler bag

Can you grab me a beer? You’ve never heard dad ask that before, right? Well, of course, you have! When it comes to beer gifts the list is literally endless. From a cooler bag to a personalized mug, from a beer sign to a unique bottle opener, you can find just about anything. Beer guys are like any enthusiasts, they have a lot of what they love, but are still on the hunt for the latest and greatest. Get your beer-loving man something to add to his collection this Father’s Day.

Wall sign — A personalized sign is displayed on the wall

Guys love to lay claim to what is theirs. From the early explorers to the modern-day man, they all look to get their name out there. What better way to stake your claim and show off to friends than these personalized signs? Whether it’s a sign by the grill, hanging in a man cave, or representing a home gym, these metal signs cannot be ignored.

And finally, raise your hand if your dad is obsessed with golf! What is it with a guy when he turns 40, as he transforms into a Wanna-Be Tiger Woods? You really can’t go wrong with a personalized golf gift for dad. Golf accessories range far and wide and most dads would be more than happy to be gifted a guy he can show off on the links.

Listen, chances are your dad loves you regardless, and receiving anything from his children will make him smile ear to ear. You may be daddy’s little girl so you can’t lose, right? With that being said, this year instead of sleepwalking through your Father’s Day gift-giving, why don’t you win the day. Get him a gift that will wow and make the day that much more special and memorable. You have it in you. I know you do. Now get shopping!

Interest Rate vs. APR Mortgage: What Are the Differences?

As of March 2022, the average interest rate on a 30-year mortgage was 4.18%. But, of course, the interest rate you get with a mortgage depends on multiple factors, including your credit score and down payment amount.

When you start thinking about getting a loan, you might have a few questions. For example, have you ever wondered about the difference between the interest rate vs. APR mortgage rate?

You’ll hear about both terms when you start working on a mortgage loan, but it’s crucial to know the difference. This guide explains what both terms mean and the differences between them.

The Basics of the Interest Rate on a Mortgage

So, what is the interest rate on a mortgage? That’s often the first question borrowers ask when applying for one. They want to know the rate as it affects their payment amount and total loan amount.

The interest rate on a mortgage is the stated rate the lender tells you when approving your loan. For example, they might tell you that your loan has a 4% interest rate.

This rate affects the interest charges you pay each year. For example, if you get a 5% rate on a $200,000 loan, you’ll pay $10,000 in interest charges for the year.

Now, the interest amount you pay actually varies each year, as lenders base it on your principal loan balance. They also may calculate it monthly instead of annually.

Therefore, each month your lender multiples your monthly interest rate times your principal balance to determine the interest charges for that month.

If you read through an interest rate mortgage guide, you’ll also learn that lenders provide a statement when you initially get the loan. They call this an amortization schedule.

This schedule shows how much interest you’ll pay for the entire loan if you make every payment on its due date. Of course, if you make your payments early or pay extra, it changes this chart.

If you look at an amortization schedule, you’ll notice that you pay the most interest at first. After that, your interest gradually goes down each month because your principal balance decreases.

How APR Mortgage Rates Work

Now that you understand the interest rate and how it works, you can move on to the APR mortgage rate. What is an APR mortgage rate, you might wonder? Is this different from the interest rate?

The APR rate is different from your loan’s interest rate, and there is one main distinction. The interest rate doesn’t include any fees, charges, or additional expenses, while the APR rate does.

Your mortgage APR reveals a more accurate cost you pay for the loan, as it includes other expenses. For example, if you pay points on your loan, the APR includes these costs.

The APR also includes broker fees, loan fees, and any other mortgage costs. So when you add those up and add in the interest charges, you learn your APR.

Therefore, your APR reveals the true cost of the loan. It’s a more comprehensive calculation than the interest rate.

As a result, you should compare the APR on loans when choosing one, as this is a better reflection of the costs you’ll pay.

Factors That Affect the Rate You Pay

You might be wondering why this matters. The truth is it matters for several reasons. The primary reason to learn this is to compare loan options.

You can compare numerous loan types, including 0 deposit home loans, to find the one that offers the best rate and terms for your situation. You can also ask about other loan types as you search for one.

Additionally, you might want to learn about the factors that affect the interest rate and APR you pay for the loan you acquire. Multiple factors affect these things, including the following:

Credit Score

Lenders run credit checks before issuing loans. They also run them before approving loans.

The point is for the lender to see a person’s creditworthiness. An excellent credit score reveals a person who pays their bills in a timely manner. People with high scores work hard to get these scores and keep them.

Your credit score affects the rate you get, and it can also affect your eligibility to qualify for a loan.

Down Payment

Most lenders also base the interest rates on a person’s down payment abilities. Therefore, you might qualify for a lower rate if you offer a larger amount down, as this reduces the lender’s risks.

Mortgage Loan Fees

The lender’s fees for the loan also affect your rate, but these fees only affect the APR. They don’t change the stated interest rate.

Terms

Finally, the loan terms you choose also play a role in the rate you get. For example, you might get a lower rate if you choose a 15-year loan instead of a 30-year loan.

The Effects of Your Rate on Your Loan Payments

Finally, you may want to delve into the effects your rate has on your loan. Of course, the most significant impact of an interest rate is the interest costs for borrowing the money.

A higher rate leads to a higher monthly payment. A higher rate also leads to paying more for the total cost of the loan. On the other hand, a lower rate leads to a lower payment and a lower total loan cost.

The bottom line is that you might want to shop around for the best rate on your loan. When you find the best rate, you’ll save money.

Understanding Interest Rate vs. APR Mortgage Rate Is Helpful When Getting a Loan

Borrowing money comes at a cost, and the interest rate you get affects the amount you must repay. Understanding the interest rate vs. APR mortgage rate is helpful when choosing a loan to buy a home.

In fact, learning about mortgage options and types is also crucial when searching for a loan to get.

If you enjoyed this article, check out some of the others on our website.

Are You in Need of a Roofer? You Can Discover the Greatest Here

Not all roofs are made equal, and the same is true for roofers. There is a lot at stake when it comes to finding a reputable local contractor to repair your roof. How can you know whether the contractor you’re considering is competent? In addition, how can you know whether your new roof was built properly or not?

Your choice of a roofing contractor has a significant influence on the overall success of your job. As a result, finding a top-notch roofing contractor is essential. There is a slew of roofers with websites that you can find merely by putting “roofing companies near me” into Google. Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace, and even your own mailbox are flooded with advertisements for roofers, making it even more difficult to choose the best one for your needs.

Make sure the roofing contractor has a permanent address

The best roofers are those that have a physical location and phone number in the area. It’s critical that you employ a local roofing contractor near you while searching for one to hire. You should only consider hiring a roofing contractor if they have a local office and a local phone number. That way, if there’s ever an issue with your roof, you’ll know just where to look.

Be wary that some out-of-state firms come in after a large storm, undercut local roofing company pricing, receive the money, and move on to the next storm-hit area. Local building rules and appropriate roof installation aren’t important to these enterprises. Quality local roofing companies near you are aware of the state’s installation standards and requirements, as well as how to complete all the necessary documentation to guarantee that your roof is done properly and in accordance with your state’s specifications.

Rely on recommendations from happy customers

Word-of-mouth recommendations are much more valuable than anything you’ll find online. The best way to find a good roofing company near me is to ask your family, friends, and colleagues for referrals, and then do fast research. Check out their internet reviews, but also be sure to speak with them directly to see whether or not they’re a suitable match for your specific requirements.

Make sure the roofing companies have proper credentials

You need to make sure the roofing firm is licensed, bonded, and insured in your state specifically. Make sure they have all three and don’t be shy about requesting evidence. The licensing, bond, and insurance documents that a local roofing contractor has should be more than happy to show you. When it comes to you and your roof, what does this documentation imply to you?

A schematic representation of the license

Licensed, bonded, and insured

Think, “Is the roofing contractor near me qualified properly?” Only by signing up with your state’s licensing authority can a contractor get a license. What license they’ll require will depend on the expense of the work. The cost of installing a new roof necessitates the involvement of a licensed general contractor.

The consumer may rely on the bond firm if their contractor goes out of business or has problems with their work and refuses to correct them. Local contractors that have been bonded by a bonding organization may be certain that they are doing business in a legal and ethical manner. Because the bonding business is certain that the contractor will complete the task to their satisfaction, they are willing to put up the bond. A business car insurance coverage should be in place for all of the company’s vehicles, both owned and leased.

When Dads Care

Giving your child a shot at a great future is a lot easier than you think!

While moms are indispensable, a caring dad is the best thing that can happen to a child. Child experts have traditionally placed a major focus on a mother’s role in the lives of children and tended to ignore a father’s contribution. What a tragedy. Thankfully this is changing as research is making it increasingly clear that caring and involved fathers make a massive contribution to their children’s well-being, self-esteem, emotional intelligence and sexual behaviour, as well as giving them an excellent chance of flourishing in adulthood.

And the good news is that dads can do this in very simple ways as they actively love and care for their children, and by just being who they are – men!

The amazing thing is that it is the simplest of activities that fathers engage in with their children that have some of the most lasting effects on them. At a recent talk I gave to prospective parents, a young father-to-be came up to me afterwards and recounted how his father had never shown him any affection as a child and how he had “gone off the rails” as a teenager. He told me that his father had bought him only one ice cream during the course of his childhood and that this had greatly distressed him in later years.

Another of the simplest things which impact children is a father’s touch. Children have a need to be touched by a father. Early in life, children who experience love and care by being held and spoken to by their fathers develop a very specific and unique relationship with them. A dad’s touch, with his strong hands and somewhat hairy arms, is very different from a mother’s touch, and babies and children who experience this touch have a better chance of growing up to become well adjusted, emotionally healthy adults. A father who openly shows physical affection to his children helps contribute to their intellectual, physical and sexual development.

Boys who are touched by their fathers in a healthy and caring way show a lower tendency to become sexually promiscuous and rebellious in their teens and adulthood, and girls who experience warm, healthy physical affection from their dads are much less likely to become “boy crazy” to satisfy their need to be touched and for male approval. So, when the village idiot comes calling, your teenage daughter is far less likely to crave acceptance from him because she’s been getting enough approval from the most significant man in her life – her dad. Her relationship with her father, therefore, becomes a frame of reference for how she relates to other men all through her life.

Skin hunger – the lack of physical contact – can have a dramatic effect on a child. In its most severe form, it can result in death. Decades ago, infants in orphanages in the Soviet Union were reported to have died simply as a result of not being touched. But the positive side of this coin is that infants and children who are touched appropriately and regularly flourish physically, emotionally and intellectually.

As well as the need to be touched by a father, children have a need to have a father play with them. Sometimes the last thing you want to do when you arrive home after work plays with kids, but taking five minutes to chase and tickle them is worth it in the long run. (Fast fact: Children up to seven years of age have two ambitions in life – to be chased and to be tickled by their father!)

Dads play very different games with their children from the games mothers play. And the games come to fathers quite naturally. No one tells them to play with their children in a certain way – they just do it without really thinking about it.

Family is spending time together on the bed

While mothers engage in gentle, nurturing activities, fathers play games with their children that involve getting them excited, very often including the elements of risk and fear. A typical father-child game would involve a father raising his hands like claws above his head, taking giant steps toward the child and growling, “Here comes the bear! It’s going to eat you up!”

The child invariably turns tail and scampers away squealing with delight. Once cornered, he or she is usually scooped into their father’s arms where they are supposedly eaten by the bear, something which turns out to be ticklish and immensely enjoyable for the child. And every time the child experiences being caught, their faith in their father’s love is strengthened.

Children who are exposed to such games learn a number of valuable lessons. They learn to distinguish between reality and illusion – they know their dad’s not really a bear. They also enjoy the thrill of being scared while knowing that they’re not really going to be hurt, so they learn to deal with a negative emotion (fear of the “bear”) in a supportive and positive environment – something which proves invaluable when they make their own way in the world and have to face real fears that come across their paths.

Another lesson they learn is how to read their father’s face and to respond accordingly. Dads often quickly tire of children’s games (just try keeping up with an enthusiastic toddler and see how long you last), but the positive outcome is that, from as young as six months old, children have been found to be able to read the expressions on their fathers’ faces and can tell when the game is over. These children learn how to bring themselves down from the emotional high they were on as a result of being chased, causing them to grow up with a higher level of emotional self-control and emotional intelligence. Now emotional intelligence is becoming a major currency in the business world. Studies have shown that, of people with the same IQ, education, skills and experience, it’s the person with the highest level of emotional intelligence (EQ) who will get ahead of the pack in the world of work. And fathers play a role in helping to develop their children’s EQ.

Fathers also typically throw their children in the air and catch them or encourage their children to jump from the bed or couch while they stand waiting to catch them, simple games which involve elements of risk and which require the child to learn to trust their fathers. Watch your child the first time you encourage her to jump into your arms. She won’t be too keen but, as she comes to understand that you’re going to catch her, she comes to love it! By contrast, watch a child who has never been exposed to this type of game. They are quite obviously terrified.

Another important way that fathers strengthen the bond between themselves and their children is through the use of secret signs of affection. This can take the form of a squeezed hand or a wink across a room to your child, giving them a sense of well-being and security that they get from experiencing the invisible bond that exists between them and their father.

Children thrive on attention and approval from their fathers. As a child grows up, they will frequently say those immortal words, “Look, daddy!” as they attempt to perform some or other activity. This is an expression of their desire to obtain approval and recognition from their fathers, and all this requires is the necessary attention directed at them (probably for no longer than a few seconds at a time) and an appropriate comment such as, “That’s wonderful, sweetheart!” or “Well done, son!”

Of course, one has to be realistic about this – you wouldn’t give the same attention to your child while driving your car as you would in your back yard, and explaining to your child why there is a good and a bad time to focus on him or her is also a valuable lesson for them. It helps them learn that, contrary to their belief, they are not the centre of the Universe and that sometimes they have to delay gratification in the interests of other people or things.

We live in a very success orientated world. While there’s nothing wrong with that, we fathers, unfortunately, tend to view success as something which we achieve outside the home. When we broaden our view of success to include not only that which we achieve in our work but also that which we achieve in our families, we find fulfilment and meaning we didn’t realise we were missing. After all, what are we really working for if it isn’t to give our families the best possible life?

Don’t make the mistake of losing yourself in your career in the interest of giving your family a certain lifestyle when they would rather have you around instead. A good formula to apply is: spend half the money and twice the time on your children and you will experience ten times the happiness as you see your children fly higher than you thought possible!

Author

Alan Hosking is the author of What nobody tells a new father, the new dad’s guide to pregnancy and parenthood. He has helped first-time and experienced dads become more involved parents for two decades.

The Benefits of Volunteering With the Elderly

If you are a stay-at-home mom, many of your day-to-day activities will revolve around your children and family unit. This can be highly rewarding, yet you may still feel the urge to interact with other people and offer your time and skills to a worthwhile cause.

If you are considering volunteering opportunities that allow you to utilize your experiences from a former career or simply provide you with a sense of fulfillment by serving others, then volunteering for the elderly could be a good match. In this article, we will explore some of the benefits of doing this.

Reduce Loneliness and Isolation

Isolation and loneliness in older adults are major public health issues that affect much of the elderly U.S population placing them at greater risk of serious health conditions such as dementia. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), almost one-quarter of adults aged 65 and older are considered to be socially isolated.

Through volunteering, you can help combat the feelings of depression and loneliness many elderly people feel. By taking the time to sit and have a conversation or escort an elderly person on a walk you can offer much-needed company and support, thereby making a meaningful difference in their life.

Develop Your Skills

In addition to practical matters such as picking up groceries or teaching elderly people computer skills, volunteering with the elderly will require you to develop some soft skills too.

Having conversations in a kind and empathetic manner, as well as listening and understanding things from a different point of view, are some of the softer skills you will learn, which can also help you in other areas of your life. Strengthening your interpersonal and communication skills will also bolster your resume, setting you in good stead to enter the workplace.

Volunteering in this area may also lead you to pursue a career in the area. Consider undertaking one or more aged care courses to help you develop your skills.

Support Families

Often work responsibilities mean that families do not have the time or resources to take care of their aging relatives throughout the day, making them reliant on the services of local volunteers to keep their family members company.

Knowing that someone caring, trustworthy and helpful is spending time with their loved one can offer much peace of mind and relief to families allowing them to tend to other matters.

Make New Friends

Hands — A young person’s hand is holding the hand of the older one.

Volunteering also offers you the opportunity to make meaningful and lasting friendships with the people you meet. Through spending time together you may find you have some common interests such as playing chess or bridge or perhaps you have similar taste in music, books or sport. Volunteering can be a rewarding experience allowing you to share your love for a hobby or pastime with another and can also help you to broaden your mind as you learn more about the life an elderly person has lived.

Having greater life experience often means a wealth of wisdom and knowledge in an area you may enjoy learning about. Hearing about their stories can offer you guidance and insights into your own life helping you to see things from a different perspective.

The three benefits of volunteering for the elderly highlighted in this article show how it can improve the lives of others and help you gain a profound sense of personal satisfaction and fulfillment in your own life.

Best Dressage Saddle Pads for Your Smooth Horse Riding

The intention of pads for your saddle is to protect your horse and your saddle. Technically, a proper saddle fit does not need the use of a saddle pad. While some people want to use a saddle pad, others want to use a saddle cover to preserve the saddle.

If your dressage saddle pad is well fitted to your horse, you may get away with using simply a thin pad. Depending on how poorly the saddle fits the horse, certain horses may need more shock absorption, more wither space, etc.

Different Saddle Pads

All-Purpose Pads: These may be used by hunters, jumpers, and dressage riders. All-purpose pads are typically square, although they are available in various colors and designs. The inserts may be made of foam or gel and maybe quilted.

Half Pads: Manufacturers design these pads to be worn below the saddle’s cushioning. You can use them as a riser pad to fine-tune the saddle’s fit or as extra cushioning to help absorb shock. When it comes to hunter/jumpers, half pads are more popular than when it comes to dressage.

Shaped Pads: Pads shaped to suit the contour of the saddle are known as shaped pads. They are available in either dressage or hunter types. The key difference between the two will be the length of the pad since dressage saddles feature larger saddle flaps. Thus, this results in a bigger pad.

Dressage Saddle Pads

Dressage saddle pads are made particularly for saddles with a larger flap to accommodate this. These pads will always be white in color and square in form for the sake of appearances. Schools pads are a little more adaptable than notebooks. Moreover, you can find them in various colors, textures, and shapes to choose from. It is vital to understand the fit of your dressage saddle pads and the confirmation of your horse to pick the best pad for you and your horse.

Importance of Dressage Saddle pads

Saddle cushions safeguard saddles and horses from harm since the beginning of time. They serve as a barrier against dirt, a cushion for the horse, and a perspiration absorber for the rider.

There are also shearling pads available for purchase in a variety of colors, lengths, and thicknesses to suit your needs. The most crucial characteristics to look for trail riders are horse comfort and moisture-wicking properties in the clothing they choose.

What Factors Should You Consider While Purchasing A Dressage Saddle Pad?

Take into consideration the fits of your saddle, the needs of your horse, and your financial situation. Is your saddle a proper fit for your height and weight? Do you own a horse that has a lot of wilts on it? Do you need a dressage saddle pad for a bit more shock absorption?

As there are several options accessible, you want to be sure that you make the best decision possible.

Is It Essential To Have So Many Dressage Saddle Pads?

Most riders that compete will use a white pad for exhibiting and a second pad for schooling and training. While this will assist in keeping the white place clean, it will also allow for customization of your schooling pad.

Conclusion

Dressage Saddle pads are an essential item of horse equipment. As a result, there are several choices available at various pricing ranges to choose from. When picking the ideal pad for your horse, consider his or her conformation, saddle fit, and intended use. Dressage saddle pads are often available in just one size, so make sure horses pay great attention to the pad specifications when placing your purchase.

Garden Ideas and Trends 2022

The gardening season is in full swing, time to share our garden ideas and the latest garden trends for 2022 with you! Do you already know how to dress your garden for this summer? Here you will find inspiration for garden decorations, garden furniture, and plants. Give your garden a makeover, so that you can enjoy a lovely garden next summer.

The comfortable garden

We have spent more time in our garden in the past year than we have previously. It is therefore not surprising that comfort is one of the newest garden trends. If you spend more time outside, you also want to be able to relax. So go for a nice bean bag this year or set up an entire lounge corner to relax. Dress up your lounge area comfortably with different rugs and pillows.

The bohemian garden

We briefly told you about this garden trend in our spring tips. The bohemian garden is colorful, cozy, and inspired by faraway places. Think of nice garden cushions and rugs with colorful prints and lanterns as decoration. This garden trend is easy to apply by adding accessories, you don’t even have to have a green thumb for it.

Garden furniture that fits the bohemian garden is rattan benches and chairs and furniture made of pallets. Lanterns, lanterns, and string lights are the perfect way to make your garden cozy when it starts to get dark. Complete your bohemian garden with an outdoor rug.

Of course, items such as a fire pit and a hammock should not be missing in this garden trend. Don’t you have trees where you can hang a hammock? That’s no problem! With a hammock stand, you can store your hammock anywhere. In the bohemian garden, everything revolves around relaxation and fun. Fill some pretty terracotta pots or wicker baskets with plants. Tropical plants with beautiful large leaves are a perfect match for the bohemian garden. But brightly colored flowers birthday from Bloompost.co.uk, cacti, and succulents also suit a bohemian garden.

The indoor-outdoor garden

A trend that we also saw last year: the indoor-outdoor garden. Make your garden an extension of your interior. Garden furniture no longer has to look like garden furniture, but rather resembles indoor furniture. Cozy ‘coffee tables’, poufs and stools, and garden furniture with a design look. We see more and more decorative cushions for the garden and a garden rug (carpet for the garden) should not be missing in the indoor-outdoor garden.

The luxury maintenance-free garden

This garden exudes luxury. Relaxing and enjoying it is important in this garden. It should look nice, but be low maintenance. Go for sleek and modern and make a combination of different materials for a luxurious look. Opt for large, sleek tiles and combine this, for example, with wooden decking. Create a few sleek planters and fill them with low-maintenance plants such as hostas, hydrangeas, or ornamental grasses. A few luxurious elements such as a swimming pool, jacuzzi, or outdoor kitchen should not be missing in a luxurious garden. Go for beautiful lounge furniture to complete your luxurious garden!

How to Use Custom-Printed Acrylic Signs to Create Safer Office Environments

Custom acrylic signs with your company’s name and logo can increase awareness of potential hazards or provide warnings in any work area.

Acrylic signs help to create a safer office environment by:

• acting as a hazard warning sign where necessary,

• performing as an informative guide for workers and visitors, and

• getting your message across in the most effective way possible.

5 Main Advantages of Custom-Printed Acrylic Signs

1. Acrylic signs are durable and long-lasting

Because acrylic has such high impact strength, it can be used to display graphics on building exteriors without easily being damaged from weather elements or vandalism. The acrylic panels you design will also last for years when treated with care.

2. Acrylic signs are low-maintenance

Acrylic is resistant to acidic materials, detergents, and chemicals. This means acrylic signage won’t need regular cleaning like some other types of signage boards or displays do. You can simply wipe acrylic signs with a dry cloth when it needs a quick dusting or a more thorough clean.

3. Acrylic signs provide clear messages in any environment

Acrylic panels are crystal clear and make messages easy for your customers to see which deliver the intended results in all signage applications without compromising on quality or impact. This type of sign will make sure you get across information clearly using imagery and wording that’s easily understood by everyone who reads it (if design guidelines are followed).

4. Acrylic signs are cost-effective and versatile

Acrylic can be used in a number of different ways depending on the wording and graphics you decide to use and acrylic signs will not only look good but also present your company well. Clear acrylic panels enclosed by aluminum profiles give acrylic signage a truly professional appearance that’s great for branding while also being durable, economical, and lightweight.

5. Acrylic signs are customizable with designs that stand out

You can create acrylic signage that fits into any environment using colors, shapes, or textures to get attention or logos & text to display information that people need to see without distractions getting in the way. A range of interior acrylic panel types gives you many options when designing acrylic signage for indoor applications.

Acrylic Signs Are Ideal for Any Workplace

You can create acrylic signage with messages that inform, warn or remind people of their responsibilities. Acrylic is ideal for creating acrylic signs in any office setting whether you have message boards to display company rules, senior management notices, and color-coded badging systems to indicate areas of risk or even acrylic merchandising displays for product promotions.

To increase safety in the office, consider acrylic signs by Digital Grafik. Acrylic safety signs can help prevent accidents and injuries related to high-risk office environments, such as falls and fires. Plus, acrylic office signs are often used not only for compliance purposes but also for worker morale and convenience.

One of the acrylic sign’s biggest advantages is its versatility:

Custom acrylic signage is available in a variety of sizes and colors that can be easily customized to display information according to your needs or specifications. That means acrylic signage works great for identifying potential risks throughout the workplace; you can use it to identify exit routes, dangerous work areas, emergency equipment locations, and more.

Acrylic signage is made from tough Plexiglas material so it can withstand wear and tear from daily use. The acrylic material is also non-conductive, which makes it a safer choice for use around any equipment that may pose a risk of electrocution. Plus acrylic signage never rusts or corrodes over time, so it retains its attractive appearance even in the most high-traffic areas.

In fact, acrylic signs work well as both indoor and outdoor office signage as acrylic eye-catching bright colors stand out against building exteriors as well as interior walls. In addition to acrylic’s durability, acrylic signs’ lightweight makes it easier to move indoors and outdoors as needed.

Acrylic office signs are perfect for creating safe work environments because they’re easy to read at a glance with their crystal-clear acrylic properties. Acrylic signs are a top choice for a variety of indoor and outdoor office needs, so contact Digital Grafik today to learn more about acrylic sign prices, acrylic signage design, and how acrylic signs can help keep your business’s office environment safe from accidents caused by high-risk areas in the workplace.

Conclusion:

Acrylic signs are versatile, customizable, and ideal for any office environment as acrylic is safer than glass yet more durable than paper. Acrylic signage from Digital Grafik helps create a safe work environment as acrylic signs can be used to identify exit routes, fire hazards, emergency equipment areas, and more – acrylic safety signs are an effective way to improve safety in the workplace as acrylic signs are easy to read at a glance.

Best Sports Physical Therapists in Jones Creek, LA

Recovering from a sports injury requires proper care and rehabilitation. Physical therapy is an essential component of the process, designed to help you regain strength, functionality, and balance. Working with a skilled therapist as part of a well-designed rehab plan is key. Before selecting a provider for physical therapy in Jones Creek, Louisiana, there are a few things you should consider.

Determining The Right Treatment

Sports medicine is an interdisciplinary approach that provides comprehensive care. It involves a team of experts: primary care physicians, athletic trainers, exercise physiologists, nutritionists, biomechanists, and physical therapists. All this expertise is essential to aid in recovery from athletic injuries.

So, how do these pieces fit together? And what role does sports physical therapy play in an overall treatment plan? Sports med and physical therapy focus on athletes. They consider an athlete’s body and how it moves when they’re playing certain sports. Due to each sport’s unique nature, you can expect different types of injuries. Basketball players, for instance, tend to suffer more torn knee ligaments, ankle sprains, and stress fractures in the feet and lower legs. Football players also suffer knee injuries and ankle sprains, but they’re also at higher risk for concussions, torn hamstrings, and shoulder dislocations.

Each sports injury rehab plan looks a little different. However, these plans are guided by basic principles: diagnosis, controlling inflammation, encouraging healing, improving fitness, and minimizing the risk of reinjury. Most treatment plans include some common components:

Evaluation and assessment
Taping and bracing
Resistance, endurance, and neuromuscular training
Manual and orthopedic physical therapy
Sports-specific training

What To Expect

A schematic representation of sports medicine

When you begin a sports physical therapy program, you’ll first attend a comprehensive evaluation. You’ll be asked for details about your injury and undergo a physical. During this time, the practitioner will check your strength, range of motion, and movement mechanics. Depending on the nature of your injury, additional tests may be needed to gain a complete understanding of your injury.

Data from the evaluation is then used to craft a personalized rehab program. Part of the program includes the reduction of inflammation and pain in the injured area. Soft tissue massage plus techniques for restoring range of motion are often involved. Next, your program should focus on rebuilding strength, stability, and balance. The final phase typically includes sport-specific exercises along with a home exercise program and a return-to-sport plan.

Choosing a Sports Med Provider

Now that you know the critical components of a sports med injury rehab program, your next step is choosing a provider. You may receive recommendations or referrals from a primary care physician, but you may also have the ability to pick a sports physical therapy practice.

When you’re seeking Brittany, Louisiana physical therapy treatment, you’ll want to look for some important characteristics. IAny program should use evidence-based techniques. These include active physical therapy that works on strength, flexibility, and ergonomic retraining to prevent future injuries. Empathy and honesty are also vital qualities — your therapist should be frank about what to expect yet supportive in helping you achieve your goals.

Best Ways to Nurture Your Child’s Love for Cooking

According to a recent survey, many parents have admitted that they often find their little ones keen to assist them while they are in the kitchen.

Children are indeed inquisitive. However, their curiosity and willingness to explore the world drive their physical and mental growth. Thus, if your child is eager to assist you in the kitchen, use it as an opportunity to get them involved and teach them about the dynamics of cooking.

And while there are many recipes to explore, making cookies is probably the best way to keep the kids engaged and spark their interest in cooking. For convenience, you can use the premade dough such as Doughp – it’s made of quality ingredients and it can be consumed raw! To find out more, follow the link for the full Doughp Cookie Dough review.

But you should keep in mind that teaching kids about cooking is not as easy as it may seem. You need to ensure their safety and security in the kitchen so that they don’t get injured and invite trouble.

To avoid that, here we have curated a list of some ways that can help you nurture your child’s love for cooking. Follow along to learn more about them.

Teach them about the safety standards

Before you even let your child in the kitchen, make sure you teach them about the basic safety rules and standards. This will keep them safe while they are exploring and experimenting in the kitchen.

Here are some kitchen safety rules your child must follow no matter what.

Always use kitchen towels while taking something out from the oven or stove.
Use wooden knives until they are old enough to use the sharp ones.
Wear well-fitted clothes made of cotton instead of silk or polyester to prevent any fire accidents.
Always sanitize or wash hands before starting with the recipe.
Do not climb on the kitchen shelves.
Do not use plastic utensils for the oven.

Additionally, make sure that you are supervising your kids in the kitchen to prevent any potential accidents.

Use their playtime to your advantage

Research shows that kids learn best while playing. And you can use that to your advantage to elevate your little one’s interest in cooking. For this, all you need to do is to incorporate a kitchen play set for kids and encourage them to use it while playing.

Playing with toy utensils, fruits, veggies, bakery sets, shopping carts, wooden coffee machines, and wooden cupcakes can encourage role-play activities. Not to mention, your little one would also get to learn kitchen vocabulary, making them more interested in cooking.

Give them control in the kitchen

Kids love to feel responsible. Thus, the best way to teach them about the dynamics of cooking is to give them control in the kitchen. Ask them to flip through cookbooks and pick their favorite recipes. You can also encourage and assist them while they are following through with the recipe.

If your kids are not old enough to handle cooking equipment, you can assign age-appropriate kitchen tasks such as measuring ingredients, passing utensils, and keeping an eye on the kitchen’s timer.

That’s a wrap

Cooking is a basic life skill everyone should learn no matter what. Developing and mastering cooking skills can help your kids in the future when they are all set to live an independent life. So, use the tips mentioned above and nurture your child’s love for cooking.