All posts by admin

High-intensity interval training is a fitness phenomenon that more and more people are beginning to get into. Also known as HIIT, this approach to fitness involves intense bursts of activity followed by rest or fixed periods of gentle exercise. High-intensity interval training is efficient, metabolism boosting, fat torching, and seriously intense. It asks us to train harder and push our bodies significantly further than we ever thought possible. It also encourages us to quite literally overcome any obstacle life throws our way.

As an elite obstacle athlete and an elite level Spartan champion, Alex Nicolas is an expert in that arena. He is also the founder of a thriving high-intensity circuit fitness program called EPIC Interval Training, who’s Washington, D.C. location is owned and operated by David Fuller.  This is where individuals have the opportunity to find their own inner champion. Borne out of the Spartan Race series, EPIC Interval Training is here to change the game in modern fitness, incorporating bodyweight exercises with kettlebell conditioning, monkey bars, ropes, and mobility and skill work. Created by elite obstacle athletes, D.C-based EPIC Interval Training aims to complement every aspect of their member’s lives, improving mental and physical toughness both in and outside of the gym.

Work on Progressive Levels

For D.C. owner, David Fuller, the goal is simple, to meet our own potential. “It is important to note that here at EPIC we can make anybody and any body type reach their potential,” he says. “We do that by teaching each station at three levels. That means two completely different body types can be working side-by-side at the same station and each is doing it to their respective max. So that might mean person A is more flexible than person B and therefore has a greater range of motion. Conversely, person B might have superior grip strength to person A and can spend an entire interval in an inverted hang, for example.” Based on a progressive level system, this circuit-style fitness program meets you where you are and gives you opportunities for growth over time. But at EPIC, time works a little differently. Working buzzer to buzzer, everyone starts together, everyone works together, and everyone ends together.

Become Your Own Machine

Another unique aspect of this style of fitness is that you are the machine. No treadmills, no rowers, no mechanical devices will be found here because you have the power within yourself. Beginning on the MMA mat, EPIC will train you to strengthen your feet, ankles, knees, all the way to your fingertips, leading you to the next level of training and the next and the next until you discover how truly powerful you can be.

Switch Up Your Daily Workouts

Another word of advice? Switch up your regular workout regimen. At EPIC, every day of the week is a different class, each with its specific focus. Whether it’s core or cardio, your workout will be ever changing to keep your brain and your body stimulated and to avoid the monotony of the average workout plan. While it is standard that each class is eight stations, the stations and the interval levels differ per the focus of the day. And although each day is different, you’ll have the same classes throughout the month so you can track improvement week after week. On the weekends, athletes can also find special classes that get even more creative. The mobility class is one such experience, combining a yoga flow class with an EPIC interval run class in the great outdoors.

Learn from the Experts

Honoring its roots, EPIC offers Spartan workshops to support those who wish to compete in the race themselves. These classes focus on technique for the specific obstacles and come replete with pro tips from the coaches that have crawled, climbed, run, and jumped their way through the course before.  For those that don’t want to pursue Spartan training, there are other training options at EPIC.

Join a Positive Community

We are always stronger together and with a supportive atmosphere to guide us, we will find ourselves even closer to our goals. It is for this reason why EPIC prioritizes its team above all else. “In hiring coaches I did not look for just group fitness trainers, but coaches. Meaning, the mission of each of my staff is to improve the live’s of the people that come in the door. Each is a certified group exercise trainer, CPR certified etc. but most importantly, they are people persons. They can relate to our clients and make personal connections,” Fuller adds. Because at the end of the day, EPIC is here to create a safe, fun, and effective way to both exercise and find belonging. “In short, we are not in the fitness business. We are in the people business,” Fuller concludes. I want people to know that fitness can be fun. If you enjoy your workout and the people you are working out with, then it’s a win-win-win.”

Whether it’s winning an elite level trophy, or winning a whole new mindset, high-intensity training could be just the push you need to get you where you want to go and become the champion of your own life.

You work hard—and that hard work should be rewarded, right? After all, taking a break and heading off on vacation can boost creativity, motivation, and give us the energy to return to work recharged!

According to this survey, however, 52 percent of people don’t use their vacation days.

One of the top reasons people don’t use their vacation days is the cost. Fortunately, we can help.

With these 10 money-saving methods, you can save up to relax and unwind on your dream vacation. Get reading and start saving today!

1. Goodbye, Starbucks

That venti, half-caf, triple-shot latte you get every morning is eating a hole in your pocket. If you’re serious about saving up for your dream vacation, it’s important you determine areas where you can cut costs, first.

While making your “how to save for a vacation” plan, take a look at your weekly expenses.

Then, determine areas where you can cut back for a while. This can include monthly subscriptions (looking at you, Netflix account) or the box of cookies you add to your grocery list.

While you’re determining where to cut back, keep the end goal in mind.

Imagining yourself on your dream vacation can make these temporary sacrifices seem small in comparison.

2. Set a Budget—& Stick to It!

Once you cut back on frivolous expenses, set a weekly allowance for yourself.

Setting a budget can help you save a little every single day. Over time, the money you save will add up and go straight into your dream vacation account.

Make sure you stick to this budget. According to this report, only one in every three Americans prepares a detailed household budget. That budget can help you stay on track so you can spend money on your dream vacation instead.

3. Use Cash

If you’re having a difficult time keeping to that weekly allowance, set your credit cards aside and use cash instead.

Put your weekly allowance—and nothing more—in your wallet as cash at the start of the week. As the days pass, you’ll be able to see how much you’ve physically spent for the week.

This visual will help you stick to your budget.

That way, you can make your vacation savings plan a reality, day by day.

4. Talk About It

Announce your vacation plans to family and friends. Once everyone knows about your vacation savings plan, you’re setting an expectation.

This will put you under pressure to make your dream vacation a reality.

That way, you’ll do everything possible to save money and make it on your trip—instead of feeling embarrassed if you fail.

5. Set a Separate Account

All that money you’re saving has to go somewhere, right? Instead of placing it in your usual savings account, set it aside.

A separate bank account that’s dedicated to your dream vacation fund will help you see how much you’re saving.

It will also keep you from withdrawing more money than you should before your vacation. If you can’t save enough by the time your set vacation date rolls around, check out this Bonsai Finance article for a little help.

6. Dine In

We all love splurging on takeout every once in a while—even when we know there’s food in the fridge.

Cutting back on these dinners is one of the best ways to save money for your dream vacation. Instead of eating out, plan your meals for the week.

Make a grocery list and stick to it. By planning your meals in advance, you can also make it easier to stick to your weekly budget.

It helps to plan meals you actually want to eat, too.

That way, you’re avoiding unnecessary expenses and getting excited about a week of delicious dinners ahead.

7. Sell Old Stuff

All that old stuff that’s just collecting dust in your garage or attic could also contribute to your dream vacation fund.

Clear out the clutter and sell the stuff you don’t need. One man (or woman’s) junk is another person’s treasure, right? By clearing out this old stuff, you can add a little to your dream vacation savings and get a step closer to your goal.

Check out junk shops, flea markets, antique shops, or host a garage sale to clear out the clutter!

8. Moonlight

A few extra bucks every day can go a long way to helping you achieve your goal.

Try getting a part-time job to help you save. Whether it’s for a few months or a year, those extra paychecks will add up over time. Eventually, they’ll make a big difference in helping you relax and unwind on that trip out of here.

9. Plan It Out

It’s difficult to know how much to save without knowing how much you’ll eventually spend.

While you’re determining how to save for a vacation, try to make a list of your eventual expenses. This can include everything from flights, hotels, rental cars, food, souvenirs, and any other expenses you expect.

Once you plan out your trip, you can plan how much to spend, too!

10. Eye on the Prize

As you’re saving up for your dream vacation, remember why you’re doing all of this in the first place.

Selling old belongings or taking on a second job can seem daunting, but it’s all worth it once you’re in the clouds and headed to your vacation destination.

If it feels like saving is taking a long time, don’t get frustrated. Instead, remain patient and take it day by day. Keep visualizing yourself on that dream vacation to put it all in perspective.

There’s no one best way to save money for vacation expenses. With a little patience and these tips, though, you’re one step closer to the vacation of your dreams.

Sweet Escape: 10 Ways to Save for Your Dream Vacation

With these 10 money-saving methods, you can save for your dream vacation and head off on a sweet escape!

Check out the latest posts on our blog for more entertainment and lifestyle updates.

Gucci is one of the most popular high-end fashion brands in the entire world. 

Even if you don’t consider yourself a fashion guru, you’ve probably heard the name Gucci and could recognize the logo. 

Gucci was founded in Italy in 1921, and while the company started out small, its global revenue was around 8.3 billion euros in 2018. 

But, even though you may have heard of Gucci and bought some of their products before, doesn’t mean you know the best of what Gucci has to offer. 

If you’re in the market for Gucci shoes, it can be particularly tough to figure out which ones are the best for your feet and your style. 

That’s where we come in. 

Check out this guide to learn about the 3 best pairs of Gucci shoes. 

1. Anything Made of Leather 

If you’re going to spend the money on a pair of Gucci shoes, it’s a good idea to make them leather ones. 

This is because Gucci offers quality leather shoes that other companies simply don’t. 

But, what makes Gucci’s leather so great? 

Well, for one thing, the leather is still hand-crafted. That’s right, Gucci first rose to fame because of their commitment to handcrafting all of their materials. 

Gucci products are still handcrafted, and great attention is paid to each detail. 

Also, Gucci only uses top-quality leather on their shoes. This means that even though the shoes are quite expensive, they’ll last you a lifetime if you take proper care of them. 

2. Gucci Pumps 

When most people think of Gucci, they think of the famous leather bags. 

After that, they probably think of the pumps. 

This is because the Gucci pumps, with their style and wide color variety, are just as iconic looking as the bags. 

Plus, every pair of Gucci pumps comes with the iconic logo buckled into the top of the pump near the toes. This way, everyone can see that you are wearing the iconic Gucci brand without you having to say anything. 

3. Gucci Sneakers 

When people think of Gucci, they don’t often think about clothes they’d wear to feel comfortable in. 

However, Gucci does have an impressive line of sneakers that are worth looking into. 

Even though Gucci just got some flak for selling “distressed” sneakers for nearly $1000 that really just look like a pair of dirty sneakers you’d buy at Goodwill, their sneaker line is still quite strong overall. 

Gucci sneakers come in many interesting colors and unique designs. In fact, if you check out their recent line, you can find neon sneakers, sneakers with a cat picture printed on the side, and, of course, sneakers with the iconic Gucci symbol printed in bright colors. 

Are You Ready to Buy Some Gucci Shoes? 

As you can see, there are a lot of great options out there when it comes to Gucci shoes. 

Which Gucci shoes do you think you’re going to buy? Let us know in the comments below. 

And, be sure to check out our site for more fashion tips on Gucci and beyond. 

More than 250,000 Americans die every year due to medical errors. Those who are injured as a result of medical malpractices are four times higher.

When we seek medical help, we expect medical professionals to diagnose us correctly and prescribe the right treatment. Unfortunately, this does not happen in some cases.

While mistakes happen in every industry, they are more problematic in the medical field. Medical practitioners should, therefore, work in the best interests of their patients.

Medical malpractices can happen in different areas of medicine; thus, the warning signs vary according to the area of treatment. To improve your awareness, we have discussed the common malpractice examples to look out for.

1. Misdiagnosis

Misdiagnosis happens when the doctor attributes the patient’s symptoms to the wrong disease. It also occurs when the doctor makes a late diagnosis.

When the patient is given the wrong medication for the disease, the condition may become worse. The patient may develop complications resulting from side effects of the administered medicine.

A misdiagnosis can also happen when the physician takes the wrong imaging and blood tests. It can even happen when additional tests are not done based on the first one, or when the test is contaminated.

Similarly, you can be a medical malpractice victim if your symptoms do not match the diagnosis. Even if you don’t have any medical background, it’s important to research the diagnosis you are getting.

If the symptoms do not match the diagnosis, be sure to consider a second option.

2. Doctor Giving Elusive Answers

It’s your right to get clear answers from your medical practitioner. The doctor should provide you with all information related to the diagnosed condition. They should also inform you of the treatment they will give you and even advice on how to take care of yourself.

Take it as a red sign when your doctor fails to answer your questions or update you on your treatment progress. You should also know there is a problem when they give you short, elusive, and imprecise answers regarding your condition.

Such answers show that a mistake has happened during the treatment, and they are probably trying to hide the truth from you.

3. Condition Fails to Improve

Does your state seem to deteriorate despite taking your medicine regularly? You might be a victim of wrong prescription.

As earlier mentioned, it’s the doctor’s responsibility to keep you informed of all steps that they take. They should also show you the lab test results.

Not all medical treatments are guaranteed to improve with time. However, if a patient undergoes a painful surgery or treatment against what was right, close attention is required.

4. Poor Care

Health care facilities should administer proper care and attention to their patients. Unfortunately, some of them don’t do so, and the result is neglect of the patient.

The common warnings sign for a health facility with poor care services are understaffing or overworked doctor’s who work while tired. They also include stressful, dirty environment, or being treated by a staff that is high on alcohol and other drugs.

You cannot get the right treatment in a poorly managed hospital. The health care workers should work as a team to administer proper care to patients.

Doctors’ fatigue can cause fatal errors and their carelessness can lead to improper treatment. If the hospital environment does not impress, inform your medical malpractice lawyer to avoid risking your life or that of your dear one.

5. Doctor Admits to Making Errors

One of the most obvious signs of medical malpractice is when the doctor admits their fault. They could confess that they gave you the wrong drugs, gave you the wrong lab results, or did the wrong surgery on you.

However, keep in mind that most medical providers cannot admit their mistakes to a patient. A concerning report shows that more than 70% of physicians offer limited apologies in the wake of medical errors. Others don’t apologize at all.

For this reason, it’s essential to know the other signs of medical malpractice to avoid becoming a victim. Also, some states have laws which allow doctors to express their remorse when the patients’ treatment doesn’t go as expected. This doesn’t, however, mean that their apology can’t be used against them in court.

6. Extraordinary Consequences

A doctor must explain both the benefits and risks of undergoing a particular treatment. The explanation should be given to the patient or their close relative before they begin the procedure. This helps the patient to know the expected outcomes.

However, when a patient shows unusual outcome or gets awful experiences after the treatment, a medical malpractice might have been done.

For instance, a simple biopsy surgery of the abdomen is expected to have a quick recovery period. But, when the patient suffers bloating, fever, and severe abdominal pains weeks after the surgery, there could be a problem.

A scan should be done immediately to find out if the surgeon left any foreign tool on the wound, or if they stitched well.

Additionally, a doctor should confirm if the patient is allergic to a specific medication before they administer it to them.

7. A Family Member Dies While In a Stable Condition

Death is inevitable and can happen anywhere, especially in the hospital setup. However, some doctors are negligent and mistreat their clients. The negligence can have fatal implications.

So, when you lose your loved one in the hospital and their condition was improving, some form of mistreatment could have taken place.

Medical negligence happens in many ways: they might have been subjected to the wrong surgery, given an overdose or given an underdose. If the doctors don’t have a clear explanation of what resulted in death, look for an attorney to follow up on the case.

Beyond Malpractice Examples 

If you see any of the above malpractice examples in your situation, you might be a victim of medical negligence and malpractice. You have the right to ask questions, and you deserve straightforward answers from the concerned parties.

Don’t be silent. Look for an experienced medical attorney to help you. You will be entitled to compensation and justice. Check out our blog for more information.

70 million Americans read their horoscopes every single day.

While some read and agree or conform to what their star sign says, some do it for fun, and others do it just to disprove the reading.

Over the centuries, people have used astrology for different purposes. Some have used it to navigate relationships and others to manage their careers.

A separate group has even used it for their sobriety and wealth accumulation journeys.

Horoscopes can be fun to read, but their authenticity is often questioned. How accurate are horoscopes? Find out the truth about horoscopes here.

The Basis of Horoscope Star Signs

Many people are aware of the zodiac signs. There are 12 constellations which are separated by 30 degrees in the sky.

Their position in relation to the moon and sun is believed to dictate numerous factors on earth, as well as dictating an individual’s life events.

These include one’s personality and success in life.

How Accurate are Horoscopes?

Each star sign is allocated a personality. However, the accuracies of these assignments cannot be definitively termed as accurate or inaccurate.

While someone cannot be assigned a personality in this sense, some people see close similarities between their personalities and their assigned star sign personalities.

To develop visions of the future, astrologers analyze planetary motions by examining charts and comparing astrological transits with geometry.

Astrology has a very wide scope. This makes it rather difficult to capture the specifics of each person’s experiences. Attempting to do would require pages upon pages of narration.

For horoscopes published in print media, the word length threshold rarely exceeds 100. This alone limits astrologers from exploring how a sign will relate to the world on any given day.

The limited space also makes the readings feel too generalized. This is actually a common feeling shared by people who dispel the accuracy of astrology.

Aside from the space limitations, each sign experiences similar journeys at varying astrological degrees and in varying ways.

The planets are also mobile, changing transits at different times. The specifics of transits, which can be down to minutes, can strengthen or weaken their effects depending on an individual’s birth chart.

Natal Charts

Natal charts and electional astrology varies from day to day. For this reason, horoscopes are calculated based on each day’s natal chart synastry, coupled with the 12 zodiac signs.

Astrologers get accurate readings by placing a sign on a natal chart wheel, then try to align the transits of the day with another chart.

There is usually a chart of each sign, this is done to have a comparison and see how the signs relate to the transits.

For you to get a more accurate prediction, don’t just stop at reading your sun sign. Instead, read the horoscopes of your rising sun sign, along with the sun sign.

What the Rising Sun Sign Tells You

When you use the horoscope only, this is solely based on your star sign, which is basically the day you were born. This is pretty general information, and it’s shared with billions of others around the world.

Your rising sun sign gives you more insights into how you interact with others as well as your presentation of yourself on a day to day basis.

This is calculated using your exact time of birth, day, month and year. It also includes the state, city, and country you were born in.

This is because your sign is calculated from your birthday, whereas your sun signs are derived from the information of the day you were born.

Ascendant or rising charts represent your most natural, authentic personality.
They represent the axis for your birth chart, as well as how other people view you.

Your Ascendant is in your first house, meaning that it dictates the rest of your chart.

Interestingly, at the time you were born, this is the placement of the zodiac sign that was directly above the horizon.

When you understand what goes into a reading, you realize that it takes several different factors to get an accurate prediction.When done with all the factors in place, astrology becomes cunningly accurate.

What Gives Astrology a Bad Reputation?

Truth be told, anyone that understands astrology lingo can write a horoscope.
This is what gives astrology a bad reputation.

For this reason, some of the newspaper horoscopes you see are written by reporters and journalists with no inclination of astrology whatsoever.

At times, if you are a keen follower, you will notice the exact same horoscope reading appears severally within a year. This should not happen with genuine astrology.

This lack of professionalism is also what stops astrology from being taken seriously, studied, and data compiled to reflect its successes.

Think of it in this sense. A newspaper could be read by millions of people. So say you are a Gemini and you head on to read what the Gemini horoscope reads on any given day.

You and millions of others do the same thing.

What are the chances that millions of people will have the exact same experiences each day of the week for years? Therein lies the limitation of free newspaper horoscope readings.

For this reason, if you take the Zodiac seriously and want an accurate reading, the only place to get it is from an expert.

This way, you get your one personalized, accurate reading. They might also use tarot cards to get more information.

What Does The Future Hold?

So how accurate are horoscopes?

There really is no simple answer to this question. However, getting one done by a professional gives you an individualized, more accurate reading.

Also, the more you read up on the subject and the factors that contribute to a final reading, the better placed you are to grasp astrology, what it entails and how to use it in your day to day life.

Have we piqued your interest? Read up more on our blog, and hopefully, you will look for a professional astrologer to find out what the future holds.

While the divorce rate is lower than it was a few decades ago, it still sits at around 39%.

If you and your spouse can’t make things work, it may be time to think about splitting up.

However, a divorce doesn’t have to be an ugly, bitter, and frustrating process. In fact, with the help of divorce mediation, it can be quite easy.

Here are five of the biggest benefits of divorce mediation.

1. Speed

A divorce can be a long, messy, drawn-out process. In some cases, contested divorces can become a multi-year ordeal.

That leads to a lot of stress on yourself and your family.

Hiring a mediator expedites the process by finding common ground and aiming to complete the divorce as quickly as possible.

2. Affordability

A divorce can put a serious strain on your wallet as well as your heart. The average divorce costs each party $15,000.

By looking into divorce mediation, you can cut out the middle man and get rid of the expensive lawyers.

Mediators cost considerably less than divorce lawyers, especially if your divorce needs to go to court.

3. It’s Easier for Your Children

Divorce is tough for everyone involved. But often, children are the ones who end up hurt the most.

No matter what went down between you and your spouse, you both love your children and want what’s best for them.

In this case, that means separating in a clean, amicable manner so they can move on and start the healing process.

It’s understandable to upset with your spouse. But remember that there are other people involved. People who you love and want to protect.

4. Fairness

Strangely, deciding to divorce is the easiest part of the process. The difficulty comes when both parties must sit down to establish, among other things:

• Who, if anyone, is at fault.
• Who gets what in the divorce.
• Who gets primary custody of the children.
• Whether alimony is required.
• How divorce will affect legal documents such as wills, trusts, etc.

With so much on the line, both parties need to feel as though they’re getting what they deserve.

Mediators are trained to help couples talk through these difficult topics so that both parties walk away from the mediation table happy.

5. Mediation Can Save Your Future Friendship

You and your spouse may not be the best partners. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have healthy mutual respect in the future.

Maintaining a cordial relationship with your spouse makes the divorce proceedings easier. But that’s not the most important consideration, as it can benefit your children, as well.

If you have kids, it’s almost inevitable that you’ll run into your ex at some point. Wouldn’t it be nice if your children didn’t have to dread the thought?

The Benefits of Divorce Mediation

Nobody wants to get a divorce. But if it has to happen, it’s important to make the process as easy, quick, and fair as possible — all of which are benefits of divorce mediation.

Divorce mediation gives both parties the assurance that their thoughts and feelings are under consideration. It’s more civil, it’s better for the kids, and it can even lead to friendship down the road.

For more life advice, be sure to check out our lifestyle blog!

Americans tend to think there’s more crime than there actually is. When surveys ask about the crime rate, Americans almost always say it’s up over the prior year.  

But that ignores the reality that both violent crime and property crime rates have gone down significantly since the 1990s. 

That’s the good news. The bad news is that most crimes are not reported and even fewer are solved. Property crimes have a clearance rate of less than 20 percent nationwide. 

That’s cause for concern. But you can secure your home without taking out a second mortgage. Read on for 10 simple home security tips that work for almost anyone. 

1. Install Smart Locks

We’ve all used traditional locks that require a key. But when you’re looking for home security tips, you should start with locks you can control from your phone. 

Smart locks don’t require your physical presence. If your kids are coming home before you and don’t have a key, you can ask them to text you when they arrive. In another few seconds, you can unlock the door for them.

Even better, you can lock them in once they’re inside. Smart locks are also ideal for those mornings when you rush out the door so fast that you forget to lock it behind you. It’s one of the most simple security solutions out there. 

2. Buy a Video Doorbell

You’re expecting a new vacuum cleaner to arrive on your doorstep. But while Amazon says the package got delivered, you can’t find it. It’s not by your door, and it’s definitely not at your neighbor’s house.

You’ve gotten victimized by porch pirates. A 2017 survey found that 8 percent of Americans reported having a package delivery stolen during the holiday season. 

If this happens, you should first contact the retailer for a refund. Then buy a video doorbell that allows you to catch thieves in the act. You can view the doorbell camera from your phone even if you aren’t home. 

3. Secure the Windows

You may think you’re letting a little air in at night when you crack the window. But a would-be burglar or robber sees an opportunity.

Closing the window is the best thing you can do to keep someone from getting in. Beyond that, make sure the window latches are sturdy. 

Worried about someone throwing a rock through your window to get in? Add window alarms that go off when glass breaks. 

4. Light It Up

Next time you drive by a gas station at night, notice how bright the parking lot is. Bad guys usually prefer to operate in darkness, which means light can repel them. 

Pay special attention to your front and back entrances. If you have to stumble through the darkness to get to your back door, that means it’s too dark.

Adding lights to a pathway can also help you feel safer when you’re walking from your car after a late night out. 

5. Hedge Your Bets

Hedges can add aesthetic value to your home. But for security reasons, you need to keep them properly maintained.

Sure, someone jumping out of the bushes and attacking you may feel like something that only happens in movies. But keep your trees and bushes trimmed back anyway. 

6. Release the Hounds

A dog is a great source of companionship but a dog can also sound the alarm if there’s a potential intruder outside.

Of course, some dogs are more excitable than others. If your small dog barks at clouds, you may wonder how much good he’ll be in a home invasion.

But he’s probably more useful than you think. Just the sound of any dog barking can be enough to send intruders running

7. Check the Mail

Maybe all you’ve been getting lately is junk mail. But you still need to take that junk mail out of your box and place it in a recycling bin. 

An overflowing mailbox does more than irritate your mailman. It can also tell burglars that no one is home. If you are home, you need to get your mail. 

What if you’re not home? In that case, you should make sure someone is snagging your mail for you. It can be a house sitter, pet sitter, or friendly neighbor.

8. Add Signage

Burglars look for homes that seem like an easy mark. Planting home security signs in your yard gives them pause.

A sign that says “Security cameras in use” is good, as is one that warns “Beware of dog.” 

Don’t go overboard on the signage, though. If you cover your yard in signs, burglars may suspect you’re faking it. And you don’t want them to test that theory by trying to get into your house. 

9. Keep Your Keys Close

Your keys can act as a DIY security system, at least if you keep them near you at night.

If you’re like most people, you probably deposit your keys on a surface by the front door as soon as you walk in. But leave them on your nightstand instead.

If you hear someone outside, you’ll want to grab your keys and press the panic button. It’s especially helpful if someone is trying to get into your car. 

This simple security tip is safer than keeping a gun by your bed. You can handle your car keys when you’re half-asleep without any problems. The same isn’t true of a handgun. 

10. Consider Cameras 

One of the most simple security solutions is also one of the most obvious: get a camera. Or better yet, get several cameras.

There’s a reason why cameras get used for everything from construction security to office security. They stop a lot of crimes from ever happening in the first place. 

And if the crime does happen, well, security cameras ensure you’ve got footage to show the police. A camera can’t prevent every single crime, but it can help solve a lot of them. 

Simple Home Security Tips

Simple home security is important for a few reasons. Home security that’s too complicated will make you feel stressed out rather than safe.

Before you buy equipment, survey your home. Look for spots that seem vulnerable to intruders. Secure those first. Then work your way down the rest of the list as needed. 

For more resources on what’s going on in the world today and general life resources, check out some of the other sections of our blog.

Are you playing catch up on the latest cybersecurity trends?

It isn’t surprising. The internet is moving quickly, and it can be hard to keep everything straight.

But you can’t afford to stay in the dark. There is a new hacking attempt every 39 seconds.

While a lot is happening, some topics are more important than others. We will cover those in this post.

Keep reading to learn six security trends that you need to look out for.

1. Personalized Phishing Attacks

With all the personal information people are providing online, it’s easier for attackers to use your information against you.

Security specialists believe that phishing emails will contain more personal information to add trust to their messages.

This personalization will make phishing attacks harder to spot in the future.

2. Growing Use of Two-Factor Authentication

A lot of internet users have been hesitant to adopt two-step authentication. People thought that passwords would be enough.

But with all of the security breaches over the last few years, people are starting to take a second look.

Two-factor authentication is the process of using another authentication step for logging into a system in addition to your password.

This authentication can be in the form of a text message code, email code, hardware verification, or smartphone authenticator app.

3. Data Regulation

It started in Europe with the passage of the GRDP regulations. Expect more rules to be passed globally.

Users have become extremely concerned about their privacy, so governments are beginning to put in place regulations that mandate data privacy.

Companies will face hefty fines and other penalties if they don’t take the proper precautions to protect user data.

4. IoT Attacks

The internet of things has taken off. As more people become reliant on it in their lives, it will become more of a target for hackers.

IoT attacks in 2019 are expected to reach an all-time high. Consumers and businesses will need to be diligent about protecting their devices.

5. AI Cyberattacks

Everyone thought it was great when an AI beat the Go grandmaster. But an increase in AI capabilities can lead to other problems.

This problem comes when malware gets AI capabilities. This change will lead to smarter viruses that are harder to protect yourself from and harder to get rid of.

6. More Security Professionals

As the threat of cyber attacks grows, we have an increasing needs of talent to battle threats. This increase in threats will lead to a significant increase in jobs in the security field.

There are now many cyber security training programs being developed to train people to deal with problems. This trend isn’t likely to stop in 2019 and should continue in the future.

Follow These Cybersecurity Trends to Stay Updated

The security field is advancing faster than it ever has. There’s no way you can get around that with the new threats that are being introduced every day.

Make sure you are up to date on cybersecurity trends, so you don’t fall prey to a cyber threat in the future.

Are you looking for more trends happening this year? Head over to our blog to read our latest posts.

The city of New York is the most populous city in the United States. Within its borders, 8.6 million people have a place to call home. Add to that number the tens of millions of tourists that live in the city, and you’re talking a whole lot of people packed into this town.

That massive population is part of New York’s hustle and bustle charm though. Hustle and bustle isn’t the only thing that this incredible city has on tap, by the way.

Oh no… It has got soooo much more.

If you want to know exactly what this city has to offer in the way of attractions, you’re in the right place! Below, we share with you our list of fun things to do in NYC that you can enjoy whether you’re a local or a tourist.

1. Visit Lady Liberty

The statue of liberty is an unmistakable feature in New York. Look out toward the water and there she is, standing proudly and inspiring hope in millions.

While gawking at lady liberty from the water is all well and good, getting up close and personal with her is much better.

So, grab a ferry and sail on over to the fixture. Take some pictures at its feet or, if you’re feeling adventurous, wander inside of the statue and take the stairs up to its crown.

2. Pay Your Respects at the WTC Memorial

The attacks of 9/11 are this generation of American’s most sobering event. While many years have passed since that horrendous day, the wounds of it still remain for many families, firefighters and spectators that were caught in the crosshairs of the mayhem.

To help heal those wounds and to never forget what transpired, the city of New York has created a wonderful monument located where the World Trade Center used to be.

Learn more about hotels in the general area so you can queue up for access ahead of the masses. Our recommendation is to go at night and silently run your fingers over the many names of the people that lost their lives during the attacks. You’ll never be the same afterward.

3. Eat Great Pizza

If you like pizza, you’re going to love New York. This town is the Italian-style pizza capital of America.

Throw a stone, and you’re likely to hit the window of a place that serves up great pies.

You can buy pizza by the slice or, if you’re looking to get really crazy, purchase a whole pie and start scarfing that bad-boy down. Just be sure that you have a friend with you who can roll you out of the restaurant when you’re done stuffing your face.

4. See the City from Above

New York’s skyline is so intense that you’ll spend a ton of time looking up at the buildings that are towering over you. To get a unique perspective on the city, rather than looking up, try looking down.

You can hop in an elevator in the Empire State Building and ride it to the top. Then, you can head out to the building’s viewing deck and use binoculars to see just about everything.

5. Get Cultured

We’re not big on refined culture here. But heck, we’re brutes.

We’re sure that you, on the other hand, would love spending days wandering through museums and pondering all of the intricacies of the artist’s brain and our country’s history. And that’s great because New York is jam-packed with museums!

Some of the best museums in town include The Museum of Modern Art and the American Museum of Natural History.

To make this “fun things to do in NYC” suggestion even better, on some days, museums waive admission fees!

6. Watch a Show

No fun things to do in NYC list is complete without plugging a Broadway show. If you’ve never seen live theater before, checking out what’s playing on Broadway is an incredible place to start.

Sure, Broadway can get a little pricey. If you know how to buy tickets though, you’ll be able to save a ton of cash.

For example, on certain days, many theaters give out discount tickets to students. Other times, deal sites like Groupon offer great rates on show tickets.

7. Catch a Ballgame

There’s nothing quite like spending a warm night at a ballpark. This goes double if you’re lucky enough to be sitting in Yankees stadium.

The Yankees are one of the oldest teams in the United States. The team is surrounded by a fan base and culture that you just have to experience to believe.

Try to catch a ball game during the week to save a little bit of cash or, if you want to go all out, grab some premium seats during a division game on a Friday or Saturday.

You won’t regret it.

8. Hang out in Central Park

Sometimes, the most fun thing to do in NYC is to do nothing at all. If you’re so inclined to do nothing, there’s no better place to achieve that end then by sitting on your butt in central park.

Central Park is wonderful during the summer and offers ample people-watching opportunities.

What more can you ask for?

Wrapping up Fun Things to Do in NYC That You Won’t Want to Miss

There are a virtually unlimited amount of fun things to do in NYC. While we think that you should prioritize our suggestions, know that they barely scratch the surface of what’s possible.

Best of luck in your NYC travels, and be sure to check out more of our lifestyle content if you need more inspiration!

Do you know that your dog can get jealous when you display affection for another creature? Well, the answer is probably No!

Dogs are unique, and as a dog owner, you’ll always feel that you must understand what makes him/her happy.

This isn’t something that you have to worry about as dogs love the simplest activities (as long as you are around).

Once you engage them, they’ll always return their love with honesty and dedication.

However, if you keep repeating the same activities over and over, they’ll get bored.

Taking your dog for a walk, visiting the vet regularly, teaching him new tricks and playing games are just some of the few things that can keep your dog happy.

Your pet is a part of your family that shouldn’t be ignored. Use these tips to keep your dogs happy now and in the future.

1. Give Them A Bath

While your dogs may not necessarily need to be bathed every week, regular baths will have them feeling clean and fresh.

Also, you’ll not only be more apt to pet them because they feel cleaner and smell better, but you’ll also be getting rid of pesky fleas.

2. Teach New Tricks

Dogs are fast learners, and you’ll be surprised that they can grasp new tricks in a short time. Training is an incredible way to spend time with your dog and create a bond.

Remember that old dogs can learn new tricks, so don’t hesitate to try new things on your senior!

3. Play Games

Dogs love to be engaged in different games. So, indoor games such as hide and seek or tug of war can make your dog happy.

If you are playing hide and seek, for instance, let your dog stay while you find a spot to hide. Once situated, call your dog, and if he finds you, compliment him/her.

4. Socialize With Your Dog

Take your dogs out when visiting your friends or relatives. Or even on longer trips, though for reasons of their absolute comfort you may have to call an expert pet transport service, for which you can click here now.

Just like humans, dogs love to socialize, and in their formative years, meeting new people makes them friendly and kind towards strangers later in life.

5. Respect Their Individuality

Sometimes your dog prefers being alone. So, you’ve got to watch out for signs that he/she needs some time alone.

While you may love to cuddle him/her, restrain yourself and give him/her space. He/she will always come when done he/she is done exploring.

6. Use Food Dispensing Toys For Meals

By using a food dispenser for your dog’s meal, you’ll be giving them a fun problem to solve. It also adds extra mental stimulation to their routine.

This helps to cut down on problem behavior such as excessive chewing or barking.

7. Give Him Compliments

Dogs thrive in compliments and positivity. So, let him/her know every time he/she is doing something that makes you happy. This motivates him/her to do it over and over again.

8. Take Your Dog Swimming

If your dog loves water, you should plan a trip to your local lake or beach for a fun outing.

This isn’t just fun, but it’s an excellent form of exercise, especially for dogs with joint issues such as arthritis. If your dog isn’t used to the deep water, remember to use a doggie life jacket.

9. Limit Their Food

While most owners tend to believe that limiting their dog food intake is counter intuitive, they have to understand that dogs will try to eat an entire bag of kibble before they think they’re full.

By limiting your dog’s food intake, you’ll keep his/her weight in check, and this makes him/her happier. Excessive weight limits his/her playtime and increases body temperature. This makes him/her lazy.

10. Relax With Your Dog

You can choose to relax with your dog at the beach, during a hike, in your yard and your kitchen. Teaching your dog to relax and sit down makes a great bonding time.

Quietly lay down or sit together watching the stars, ceiling, or waves crash. This might not be an exciting activity, but you’ll notice that your dog will open up and relax, feeling comfortable by your side.

11. Give Her A Job

Most full-fledged adult dogs aren’t satisfied unless they’re given something to do. So you may have to put him in charge of carrying treats during hikes.

You can also let him fetch the keys every time he/she is going outside. Don’t make your actions predictable as every small variation makes everything interesting.

12. Talk The Talk

You need to talk to your dog frequently. It doesn’t have to be deep or meaningful, but he/she will benefit when you speak to him/her. This makes him/her familiar with your voice in different situations, which can be relaxing.

13. Visit The Vet Regularly

You should see a vet when your dog is about ten months old to get a physical exam and maybe de-worming.

For a senior dog that is more than ten years yearly check-up is essential. If they experience severe conditions such as chronic inflammation, pain, anxiety, or stress, your veterinary may have to consider the best CBD oil for Dogs as a treatment option.

It is important to understand endocannabinoid system, because it is important to understand and be careful about what you are putting into your body (or your pets) so make sure you do your research so you understand what CBD is and what it can do for you!

14. Make The Tail Wag

Set yourself the challenge to see how many times you can make the tail of your dog wag without touching him/her. Use different sounds, intonation and body language. Your dog can greatly benefit from such an interaction.

15. Rotate Toys

Dogs tend to get bored with toys, but it doesn’t mean that you always have to buy new ones. If your dog gets bored with what’s out now, you can try bringing out an old one that he/she probably forgot. Putting the toys on rotation makes him/her always excited.

16. Keep Sprinkler systems Going

If your dog enjoys a bath, then sprinkler systems can be an ultimate fun sensation.

So that not to scare him/her with a cold, unexpected jet in the face, you have to put the sprinkler on first then let the dog out. This is a fun activity if you are busy and can’t keep him/her engaged.

17. Buy A Kiddie Pool

If you aren’t close to the lake or a beach, you can still give your dog the water experience they need by buying them a kiddie pool.

This might not be ideal for larger breeds, but small dogs will enjoy cooling off and splashing around.

18. Let Them Smell The Roses

Every time you go out on a walk, you should let your dog explore and smell the place.

Dogs love sniffing flowers, plants, and grass to find out what happened since the last time they took a walk. They also get to enjoy the walk as they won’t feel that it’s a rushed exercise. Just be sure to apply a dog balm on their paws after a long walk to soothe their tired dry paws.

19. Leave your Windows Open

You can hardly spend the whole day with your dog because you have other duties to attend.

Your dog too has his/her share of responsibilities mainly to smell, hear and look. So, every time you’re out, keep your windows open so that your dog can be stimulated.

You should have secure screens on your window just in case your pup tries to hop out!

20. Let Them Sleep With You

Not every dog owner can pull this off as it may feel uncomfortable sharing a bed with a dog.

Some people are allergic, while others probably lack the space to accommodate them. However, dogs love sharing their sleeping spot with owners because they feel safe and comfortable all night.

21. Find Company For Your Dog

Most Dogs that live in apartments lack the company of friendly animals. Sometimes your trips to the park are scarce, and you also can’t afford to own two pets.

If this is the case, you should consider finding a friend with a dog come over so that they can have fun together.

According to Rabbit Life, rabbits can be great friends for your dog(as long as they are introduced properly of course)

Learn How To Keep Your Dogs Happy!

Keeping your dogs happy can be overwhelming, but if you give them regular baths, you’ll get rid of pesky fleas that make them uncomfortable.

If you’re close to a lake or beach, take some time off and go swimming. Remember to carry the doggie life jacket just in case you’ll head into deep water.

You have to regulate how your dog eats. If you overfeed, him/her chances are that he/she will gain excess weight which can affect his/her playtime.

You also have to make yearly veterinary appointments if you have an older dog. Routine checkups help to spot and manage different medical conditions before they start.

Dogs love to play with toys, but they’ll get bored with what they’re used to. So, switching what’s out now with older ones keep them motivated.

For those who can’t manage trips to the beach or lake, a kiddie pool is a perfect way for small dogs to enjoy cooling off.

If you are too busy and can’t find time to go to the park, have a friend with a dog to come over so that your pet has company.

Looking forward to being a dog owner? Check out our blog to learn the reasons why you should consider getting a Labrador retriever.