All posts by Chris Turn

Think All CBD Companies And Products Are The Same?  Guess Again!

Think All CBD Companies And Products Are The Same?  Guess Again!

By Chris Turn on

Since alternative natural products have become more mainstream in recent years, there has been a corresponding rise in CBD production. With that comes a variety of hurdles, including a host of negative misconceptions about these products themselves. This leads to a lot of people feeling concerned about the idea of using CBD products, despite all of the positive effects CBD is not only known for but has also proven over time. The team at VIVE CBD is working tirelessly to revolutionize the CBD industry, by fully educating their customers to ensure there are no misconceptions about their products or the way they are made.

VIVE CBD is just like every other start-up, in that it started as an idea shared between three best friends. Using the expertise that each brought to the table, they were able to build their company from the ground up. Today, they have a thriving business – and brand, which is helping people around the world.

When asked about why she chose to join VIVE CBD, Chief Operating Officer Lina Somerset said that “the goal is not just to be another CBD company, the goal is to better serve those who take CBD.” This company is certainly dedicated to ensuring the customer has the best experience possible. CBD products are an easy and effective addition to your daily routine. VIVE’s certified organic hemp-based wellness supplements are made specifically with the goal of helping to reduce the effects of everything from physical pain to stress and anxiety. 

CBD, while medically proven to help with a wide variety of physical and emotional challenges, does not come in a universal product or dosage.  Therefore, in order to shed light on the multitude of potential positive outcomes from their products, VIVE places a larger emphasis than most on their end consumer’s knowledge base. According to Somerset, to date, their products have exceeded their expectations. This is due in large part to the results from their third-party full panel testing that are accessible to the public on their website.  They intentionally make their results transparent because they want to help make a more educated CBD consumer. The insights gathered from this process, as well as feedback from their customers has helped VIVE create best-of-breed products that work.  

While there are many types of CBD products available today, VIVE products undergo a more thorough manufacturing process.   CBD is infused into products rather than sprayed on them.  Somerset explains that this is, so the customer gets the best result possible.  Flavors are all natural, and their products are made, packaged and shipped from Michigan.

When you have more knowledge, it’s easy to understand the difference between CBD products.  If you’re looking for a product line made by a company that cares, look no further.  After looking at many CBD brands, this author can confirm that VIVE CBD not only tastes the best, (with no added sugars or dyes), but also made a difference for me personally.

Types Of Exercise That Can Get You Into Great Shape

Types Of Exercise That Can Get You Into Great Shape

By Chris Turn on

2022 can be the year that you finally keep your promise to get into decent shape. Your body composition will only go as far as the exercise takes you as you will have to eat in a healthy manner as well. Muscles are made in the gym while abs are made in the kitchen. Finding a form of exercise that you actually enjoy is something that could take a bit of trying. Other people love certain types of exercise and just need to get back into their old routine. The following are types of exercise that can get you into great shape. 

Yoga 

Yoga therapy can be great for the mind and body simultaneously. Yoga has been practiced for so long that there is an obvious spiritual element. Anytime that you can clear your mind and concentrate on your breathing you will find you are relieving stress. So many people have a tough time turning off their minds and yoga can allow you to do just that. Yoga is low-impact and can help people that have pain that is caused by a lack of flexibility. 

Swimming

Swimming is a form of exercise that is easy on the joints which is very important. You do not want to try to do certain activities as it can come back to haunt you as you get older. You don’t want to have back knees or a bad back from running daily on concrete. Even water aerobics is done by elderly people as it helps get their heart rate up without a chance of serious injury. Interval training could be the best thing for you as you can maintain a heart rate. Holding your breath and breathing in a certain pattern can also drive up your heart rate and provide a great anaerobic workout. 

Spin Classes

Spin classes have gained popularity around the US in the last 15 years. The motivation that the right spin instructor can provide allows their students in the class to push themselves to new levels. Biking can be something that is far more fun for certain people that want to explore a certain area. You can even take spin classes at home with a Peloton or virtual trainer. Finding the right instructor can allow you to look forward to exercising daily. 

Daily Hikes On An Incline

Daily hikes are something that will be a great usage of your time. Hiking on an incline can be a challenge, especially when going a long distance. You will need the right equipment as you don’t want to hike in tennis shoes as this is a recipe for an ankle injury. You might even knee a walking stick and keep something for protection if hiking in an area with bears or mountain lions. 

Getting into great shape is something that will take consistent effort and a focus on eating a healthy diet. Make sure you enjoy the form of exercise you dedicate yourself to as this can make all of the difference.

How to Dispose of a Fire Extinguisher

How to Dispose of a Fire Extinguisher

By Chris Turn on

Some materials can be disposed of easily. Others, however, require more specific waste management procedures to ensure they’re disposed of safely. This can include materials that are toxic (or that contained toxic materials), pressurized, or can otherwise harm the environment.

When a fire extinguisher is empty, it needs to be disposed of properly. When doing this, make sure you dispose of the fire extinguisher in the proper way by following these steps:

1. Disconnect The Hose From The Fire Extinguisher

After you have emptied your fire extinguisher, there should be a hose attached to the top of the cylinder that holds pressure for use. This hose is connected to another hose on the side that helps keep pressure inside the container when engaged. Be sure to disconnect both hoses from their respective connectors after removing any caps or locks securing them into place, and set them aside for disposal. You can dispose of these hoses with regular waste management procedures since they are non-hazardous materials (unless there is still pressurized gas in the extinguisher, in which case you should dispose of them as hazardous waste).

2. Remove The Discharge Nozzle

The discharge nozzle is the small, pointed end of the fire extinguisher that was used to expel the pressurized gas and extinguish flames. Carefully remove it from the top of the container by unscrewing it counter-clockwise. There is usually a seal around the nozzle that will come off with it, so be careful not to lose it. The discharge nozzle can be discarded normally.

3. Release Any Remaining Pressure In The Cylinder

Before disposing of your fire extinguisher, release any remaining pressure inside the cylinder. Do this by firmly pressing and holding the push-button on the top valve for two minutes. This will relieve all pressure inside of the cylinder, allowing it to be disposed of easily without any additional steps.

4. Dispose Of The Fire Extinguisher

Once your fire extinguisher has been drained of all pressure, you are ready to dispose of it. There are hazardous waste disposal procedures in place if there is still pressurized gas left in the container, so do not dispose of it with regular garbage pickup. If there was no residual pressure or anything hazardous inside, dispose of it through regular waste management procedures according to local laws and regulations.

Keeping your community safe is everyone’s responsibility, and properly disposing of a fire extinguisher is one way to do your part. Be sure to follow the steps above when your extinguisher is emptied so that you dispose of it in the safest way possible. For more information on waste management and how to dispose of hazardous materials, contact your local waste management department or visit their website.

The Divorce Process and What You Need to Watch Out For

The Divorce Process and What You Need to Watch Out For

By Chris Turn on

The divorce process is going to be stressful regardless of the situation. The stress comes from the unknown as you might not know what you are going to do or where you will live. Getting an attorney is of paramount importance as you do not want to lose everything in the divorce due to representing yourself. The divorce process can be tricky especially when you have a vindictive soon-to-be ex. Protecting yourself at all costs is important as some exes want revenge or to ruin the life of their former lover. The following are things that you should watch out for when going through the divorce process. 

Do What Is Right For Kids If You Have Them 

The best scenario that can occur when divorcing with kids is an amicable custody agreement. Child custody in North Carolina will differ from California due to state laws. Agreeing on a custody arrangement that allows both parents to work and adequately take care of the children is essential. While you might want to see your ex multiple times per week, you might find that you are far better off parenting separately than when you were living together. 

Embezzling Shared Funds 

Unfortunately, scorned lovers might use financial influence to exert one last act of power over the person divorcing them. Take your money out of this account slowly so you have a nest egg. The last thing you want is to not have a downpayment for a new place to stay because your ex wanted to be spiteful. Shared accounts make it difficult to say that your spouse used all of this money or put it elsewhere for revenge. The right attorney will be able to make sure that all funds and assets are noted so nothing can be hidden. 

Being Recorded Doing or Saying Something in Poor Taste

There are single-party consent states so you can be recorded without your knowledge or approval. A person out to get the most out of the divorce could try to antagonize you or get you to say something over the phone. If you are not living together, you can simply ignore them and let the attorneys do the talking. Avoid making up last-minute especially if you have thoroughly thought about your decision. No great marriages end in divorce which is something you need to remind yourself through this process. Being confident in your decision can make it easier to move on with your life later. 

Infidelity can nullify certain prenuptial agreements which you need to consider. Your spouse could try to set you up in a way so you receive nothing in the divorce. Most prenuptial agreements have a clause about fidelity or being married for a certain amount of time. Others have demands like that of children in order to receive any form of financial support.

The divorce process can get a bit ugly but this is not always the case. Take the time to protect yourself during this time legally with an experienced divorce attorney.

Run Smoother Tax Audits with Outsourcing

Run Smoother Tax Audits with Outsourcing

By Chris Turn on

With the coming deadline for tax season, you need to consider how you are going to go about fulfilling your business’ tax requirements. A lot of companies find it much easier to run a tax audit with third-party assistance. 

A tax audit is essential to make sure that all of your reporting obligations are adhered to and your business is running tax-efficiently. But, why does it make sense to outsource this part of business instead of handling in-house IT? Let’s take a look at some of the different reasons why it is recommended to outsource tax audits, and how the right IT help can prepare you.

Why Outsourcing Helps

One of the main reasons why it makes sense to outsource this part of your business is because you can benefit from an expert service. If you do not have any experience in finances, you may not be able to guarantee that you are dealing with your tax audit in the most effective and beneficial manner. 

This is why it makes sense to use the services of experienced tax accountants who know exactly what is needed, and have run many different tax audits before. You can make the most of their expertise to ensure that you are not missing out on any tax breaks available to you.

Another reason to consider outsourcing your tax audits, is that it can save your business money; many people do not consider outsourcing because they fear it is going to be more expensive, but this is often not the case. (Don’t forget to file your insurance as well to get 

The reason tax outsourcing is typically cheaper is that you are better guaranteed to receive all of the tax breaks available to you, so you are not missing out by paying more tax than you should be! Not only this but handling tax audits in-house can be more expensive, especially if you are going to need to invest in training your employees. 

Outsourcing Provides Peace of Mind

Not only is outsourcing helpful for your tax break, but it really helps bolster your IT. When you outsource your IT, you welcome a competent team of IT professionals who can help you with data storage to ensure you have all your tax files organized, on hand, and safely stored for future reference.

By outsourcing tax audits, you free up the time you would have spent to delegate towards your own business. You can focus on your core activities, which will ultimately boost your bottom line, and instead, you can let the accounting experts handle your tax returns for you. This works the same for your IT, as you can have confidence that any problem you might come across in taxes won’t be caused by IT, since you have the best care you can have.

If you work with an IT consultant, they can help you know what issues might be slowing down your productivity and what you can do to improve in order to run your business efficiently as technically possible.

The Importance of Workplace Security

The Importance of Workplace Security

By Chris Turn on

All businesses are going to have assets that they can’t afford to lose. However, if the asset is valuable to the business, you can assume it will have value to those who might steal it, as well. Digital equipment, machinery, and even data can all be stolen.

Workplace security is the means by which we combat that very real threat of theft and unauthorized access. Today, workplace security works in a few different ways. Here are some of the ways you can neutralize potential and existing threats to the business.

Preventing unauthorized access

Not every individual who visits the workplace may need to have access to the assets that you have. For things like the inventory in the stockroom and highly valuable equipment, access should be controlled physically, such as with the use of ID-based restrictions. 

For digital assets, such as valuable and sensitive data, you should ensure that you use systems with two-step authentication and passwords, as well as access control to make sure that every user has to verify their identity and that each individual user account has access to only the data that’s relevant to them.

Surveillance and alerts

Anticipation of security threats in the workplace is crucial. For physical assets, this can mean using things like wireless surveillance systems, alongside security alarm systems so that you are alerted to the unauthorized presence in the property as soon as possible. 

For digital systems, this might mean working with a managed cybersecurity team who can monitor logs from a range of digital access points that can raise the alarm as soon as there is any suspicious activity. From there, they can lock down certain parts of the system, stopping the spread of any threats until it is resolved.

Creating a strong security policy

The security systems in place are only going to be as effective as the team that is operating them. As such, frequent training on workplace security threats and the creation and maintenance of a comprehensive security policy is key. 

Your team needs to know what steps to follow in the event of a potential breach. Rather than leaving it entirely up to their discretion, security and crisis management policies can help direct them to productively dealing with them as soon as they can.

Determining and preparing for threats

In order to make sure that you are putting strong security policies in place, you should start with an evaluation of the security needs of the workplace. A risk assessment will help you figure out what you need to protect and how it is currently unprotected. From there, you can work with the right physical security and cybersecurity management teams to find the best options to correct those threats.

With the help of strong security policies, the right equipment, and the help of a cybersecurity management team, you can make sure that your business is protected from the threat that criminals pose. Take the time to identify the assets that you value, the security threats that exist around them, and what you can do to close those gaps.

How to Make Your Dorm Your Own

How to Make Your Dorm Your Own

By Chris Turn on

College is an exciting time for many people, and one of the best parts is getting to decorate your room to your liking. Read below to learn how to make your dorm room your own. 

1. Get inspired Online 

Pinterest is an incredible place to start. Not only can you save and pin other photos but you can refer through to websites that sell these items. You should also consider setting up boards that inspire you for your dorm. 

2. Figure out your “theme” or inspiration 

Once you have a theme in mind, shopping becomes much easier. If you prefer a botanical theme, you may want to look at where and how you can obtain some plants.

If you want a neoclassical theme, you may want to look at certain marble stickers for your sideboards, or cream emulsion for the walls to add light.

3. Save up for decor 

If you have a specific style in mind, you will need to adequately budget for your new dorm. In this case, you should consider having a set budget that can’t be compromised and look to save up in advance so you don’t have to tap into your current savings.

This way you can look at what will work best and where you can afford to add a little extra. 

If you are considering buying a new bed for example, that certainly requires a good amount of cash to ensure that it is suitable for your back and will be a long-lasting item that you can take with you.

If you want new wallpaper, you can cut back on costs depending on when and where you look for your item.


4. Look for Sales

Plenty of vintage and second hand stores have incredible finds that are not only unique but can cater to most budgets. Research exactly what you need. Shop around and be sure to compare prices as you would anywhere else. 

Sales don’t always just appear in second hand stores, but also online. Many companies run offers and the possibility to use vouchers, so signing up to mailing lists could be helpful for you. 

5. Make it easy to clean

You can look to keep the space free from junk and clutter by reaching out to a self storage company who can take things off your hands, and allow you to have the free space you need in a smaller dorm.

When you look at decluttering, you can utilize the space for what is really needed without having to compromise. 


With a little savviness and planning, you can create a space that not only inspires but is also functional and aesthetically pleasing. You can look for inspiration for interior designs on a budget as well as shopping around sensibly and implementing a strategy that allows you to keep your dorm tidy and organized. 

Upgrade These Appliances Before 2021

Upgrade These Appliances Before 2021

By Chris Turn on

There has been extraordinary advancement in technologies in the last few years, and 2020 has been no different. These innovations have improved the lives of many. However, the pandemic has called for individuals to be socially distant and stay home. This resulted in a rise in unexpected issues with home appliances. 

Suddenly your dryer needs to run twice as often to get your clothes dry, and your dishwasher is in use two or three times a day instead of once daily. All this coupled with already high energy bills makes the situation pretty dire financially. 

So have you noticed any signs of your appliance malfunctioning or about to break down? Before you replace them, carry out good research to ensure your new appliance is a genuine and sufficient upgrade of your old appliance. Here is a list of appliances you should upgrade before 2021.

Fridge

There are numerous factors you should consider when upgrading your fridge. Besides your budget, other features like shape, style, and unique features will come to mind when purchasing a new fridge. However, just as the insides are essential, so is the interior. 

Consider features such as the number of shelves in the refrigerator, doors, freezer drawer, and fridge containers. Crisper humidity control, meat keeper, easy-to-use manual controls are among the overall features you should keep in mind when upgrading your fridge. If you prefer a more tech-savvy fridge, then consider the auto assist functioning and smart fridges. 

Water Heater

Although a water heater breakdown is inevitable, it can be entirely unexpected. Imagine coming home after a long stressful day, looking forward to a nice calming warm bath, only to be welcomed when a broken water heater! 

Well, it’s time you avoid that by getting a new heater before 2021.  Buying a new heater can be a little overwhelming.You find yourself surrounded by so many options. 

Water heaters come in various styles; electric or gas, demand or storage, stand-alone, or you can have it integrated with your home heating system. For the latter, you can call your local water heater company or for a recommendation on which type of heater will be most suited to your home settings. 

Air Conditioner/ Heater

What’s better than having an air conditioner in the middle of a heatwave? The summer heat can make your home uncomfortable if you don’t have the right air cooling system. Upgrading the cooling or heating system in your home with a mini-split air conditioning system is a good buy, especially due to unexpected weather conditions. 

You don’t need to damage any part of your room interior with the mini-split, making space for or installing them. The best part is, you are equipped with an air conditioner, fan, and a heater, all in a single unit switchable with one button control and smart solutions such as controlling your air conditioner with your phone. 

Toilet

You don’t have to sacrifice style and functionality because you have a small bathroom. A small bathroom will require more thought and creativity, unlike one with a larger space. An efficient toilet should be easy to assembly, less prone to cracks, and have an excellent flushing system. 

This will save you from losing money from wasting several gallons of water on flashing. The bowl shape, height, and noise level should be high on your consideration list before settling on a choice.  

Showerhead

Showers are an essential part of any bathroom. The most common showerhead types are the swiveling nozzle, connected with a pipe, or the complex showerhead, which comes with a movable showerhead. Although showers help in water conservation, the type of showerhead plays a significant role. 

You can upgrade your showerhead with an AquaDance High-pressure 3-way head, the Sparkpod high-pressure rain, or the Wassa 3-inch anti-leak premium show head. A regular bath typically requires 150 liters of water, unlike a shower, which requires just 80 liters of water. 

Home Security Systems

Your home is never complete without a sound home security system. According to statistics, over 4,500 homes are broken into each day in the US. This isn’t reassuring, especially when your home is supposed to be your sanctuary to relax with your family and loved ones. 

Protecting your property shouldn’t be a one-off exercise. As technology advances, criminals do too, so it is essential to upgrade your security system regularly. There are new home security systems with smart innovations to monitor and control your cameras, lights, and alarm system with your phone. You can also install motion-sensitive lighting or upgrade your door locks with a keyless entry.  

Before buying a new appliance, you must check for its energy efficiency, product reliability, and reviews. Also, look out for the product warranty to guarantee your investment should the appliance break down in its early months.  

7 Easy Ways to Declutter

7 Easy Ways to Declutter

By Chris Turn on

Decluttering is all the rage right now, with TV shows on Netflix such as ‘Tidying Up With Marie Kondo’ and  ‘Get Organized With The Home Edit’ people cannot get enough. But did you know that there is more to decluttering than just making room in your house? Decluttering actually has many other benefits too. 

For example, it is said to reduce stress and anxiety, help you sleep better and you’ll find that you become more creative and productive, not to mention your house will look beautiful with more space. Decluttering your home will also free up space in your mind too. 

However, decluttering doesn’t mean that you have to throw all your things away. If you follow these seven tips then you can have the best of both worlds and keep your stuff as well as enjoying the benefits of decluttering. 

1. Take It an Object, Room, or Drawer at a Time

Decluttering your home can feel like an overwhelming task, but not if you take your time. Don’t think of it as emptying the whole house, start small by decluttering a drawer and then once you have done that, choose another drawer. Take it step by step, drawer by drawer and room by room until eventually, you’ll have a clutter-free home. 

2. Use Self-Storage

Decluttering and minimalism have helped people in lots of ways; it makes people happier, saves you time, gives you more freedom in your home and in your mind and it helps you to appreciate the things that matter most. But as mentioned it doesn’t mean you need to lose everything. 

If you want a minimalist home, you can still have it by simply putting your things in a local self-storage unit. This way, your things are safe, secure, and there for you when you need them.  However, you don’t need to throw everything away in order to declutter. Use a local storage unit to store your things and declutter your home.

3. Take Pictures of Things You Might Miss

If you’re not sure whether to part with something just yet, then again you can put it in self-storage to see if you miss it and this will help you to determine how often you use it. Also try taking photos of the things you might miss and then if you do, you can always look at them if you’re feeling down. 

4. Keep the Things that Bring You Joy

It’s a really good exercise to go through your things and to see what you use and what you don’t and what you really love and what you’re not so bothered about. Going through your things helps you to find things you love that you might have forgotten about and will give you a new appreciation for things. Surrounding yourself with the things you love will also make you feel happier. 

5. Make It into a Party

Decluttering your home doesn’t have to be a chore, in fact, it can be really fun. Get a few friends round, pour a few drinks, put some music on and have a party. Go through your things and ask everyone to help you put things into piles: things you definitely want to keep, things you’re not sure about; things that definitely need to go and things you can sell or donate. 

All your friends need to do is hold things up and take your first answer. Also, it means that if you don’t want something and they do, it automatically goes to a good home. 

6. Donate

Decluttering can not only benefit you, but it can also benefit those in need if you donate your items. There are plenty of different charities you could donate to, so do your research and decide on what you think is a worthy cause and where you can help the most. 

7. Sell Your Old Items

Finally, decluttering your home can make you some money if you choose to sell the things you don’t want anymore. You’ll be surprised at the things that sell, as they say, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. 

So if you have something you’re not sure if anyone will buy, check online first and you’ll probably find that others are selling similar items and there’s someone out there who wants it. 

Just remember you can enjoy the best of both worlds and have a minimalist home without losing your things. You can also use self-storage as a place for those things you’re not sure if you’re ready to part with yet and it will help you to declutter and to love and appreciate your things again. 

How to Keep Your Home Safe Over the Holidays

How to Keep Your Home Safe Over the Holidays

By Chris Turn on

For many people, the best part of the holiday season is spending quality time with friends and family. If you live in another state or city, that might involve packing up, locking up your house, and heading out of town for a few days or weeks.

However, before you leave home, it is important to make sure your property is protected while you are away, particularly if you’re taking an extended vacation.

Let’s look at some of the things you need to do to ensure that your safe haven stays exactly that: safe.

Lock Up

It sounds obvious, doesn’t it? This most basic step is so obvious that many people overlook it. Ensure that you lock every door and window in your house and double-check them before you go. If you don’t have one already, you may want to consider fitting deadbolts to your doors for an extra layer of protection. 

Set Your Lights on a Timer

If you have Christmas lights, put them on an automatic timer while you are out of town. You can set the timer so that your lights come on at a specific time every night, making it seem like you are at home to anyone who may be watching your house. Smart technology makes this step much easier today, allowing you to give the illusion of being home while not using too much electricity.

With all that being said, you should take a close look at any stretches of Christmas lights before putting them on a timer. Frayed cables are a possible fire risk, so if you find signs of significant wear in your decorations, it is time to throw them away and buy in some new ones.

Think about putting a few indoor lights on timers as well to help make your home look full of life even though you are not there. (Just ask Kevin from Home Alone—it can do the trick to keep burglars away!)

Set Your Water Heater to Vacation Mode

Many people would automatically turn their water off if they left their house unattended for an extended period, as this seems the most logical thing to do, right? WRONG! If there is a sudden drop in temperatures and the pipes freeze up, not having any water running through them can cause them to burst from frozen standing water inside them.

This is going to generate significant amounts of damage and hassle for you to come home to (especially once the pipes thaw and you have water damage to deal with). Although a reliable plumbing company could provide water heater repairs in Altadena, it’s best to avoid that route altogether.

Instead, switch your water heater to vacation mode. This will decrease the water’s temperature running through the pipes, saving you money but keeping the water’s temperature at a steady 55–60 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent the pipes from freezing.

If you choose to lower your home’s heating, you should also leave it at at least a temperature of 55 degrees.

Put Your Mail on Hold

Piles of newspapers and correspondence on the doorstep or hanging out of the mailbox are surefire signs that no one is at home and a big flag for burglars during the holidays. You should be able to put your mail on hold by calling your local post office and requesting that they hold your mail until the specified date of your return.

If you’re friendly with your neighbors, alternatively, you could simply ask a neighbor to watch out for mail or packages as they come and keep them safe until you arrive. A good neighbor could also keep an eye on your house for other suspicious activities.

The last thing anyone wants after a relaxing location is to come home to find your home has been damaged or robbed. These steps will help you to decrease a few of those risks.