We are Dog People

Doberman

Look at the gorgeous face! The face of a true protector.  He's also a total lap dog that weighs in at 85 lbs.   While We Were Away Recently we took a family trip to the beach for some end-of-summer R&R.  We left our two dogs, which may have excelled from training like that on https://www.canine-by-design.com/programs/aggression-training/, at home and in the care of a trusted pet sitter and family friend.  We knew they were in excellent care while we were away. Families who are going on a trip may consider leaving their pets in a dog boarding or pet boarding facility as well. Pet hotels are more like a resort for your pets than traditional boarding kennels such as doggy daycare. Soulmutts offer a variety of amenities and services to ensure your pet is comfortable and happy while … [Read more...]

The Health Benefits of an Anti-Inflammatory Diet

fresh berries

Cancer won’t be cured today, and the spread of COVID promises to continue, but in a world where illness can make us seem powerless, there is a medical issue you can cure today, with a few easy, natural steps. Inflammation is our body’s way of healing and defending itself, and we have all experienced it at one time or another. "People think inflammation needs to be stomped out at all times,” says Dr. Robert H. Shmerling, a medical editor from Harvard Health Publishing and an associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School “But it plays an essential role in healing and injury repair to keep your body safe and healthy. Some inflammation is good. Too much is often bad. The goal is to recognize when inflammation is simply doing its job, and when it can potentially cause problems." … [Read more...]

Understanding Sleep Apnea: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It can have a significant impact on your health and well-being, making it essential to understand its causes, symptoms, and available treatments. Causes Sleep apnea occurs when the muscles at the back of your throat relax excessively, leading to the obstruction of your airway. This obstruction can be caused by various factors, including excess weight, neck circumference, smoking, and alcohol or sedative use. Additionally, family history and genetics may play a role in its development. Symptoms The most common type of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), characterized by symptoms such as loud snoring, choking or gasping during sleep, and excessive daytime sleepiness. Central sleep apnea … [Read more...]

What I Love for Spring

It's that time of year again. Spring is here! It is a time for renewal and all that comes with what I love about spring. I'm feeling very grand millennial in my home style and it is certainly trickling down into what I want to wear.  Straw bags, even a vintage one from my grandmother, preppy prints, and colors. Gold hoops, white sneakers, vintage denim, animal prints, pastels, and some vibrant greens, yellows, and pinks will dominate my wardrobe over the next few months. What are you loving for spring 2021?  Are you ready to ditch the sweats and leggings wardrobe and send your cozy sweaters to the back of the closet?  I know that I am! I cannot wait for flowing sundresses paired with slides of all types. That goes along really well with my recent shopping over at Shopbop. They … [Read more...]

Plant-based Food and Beverage Trends for 2021

The green movement has gained steam in recent years, with more and more people turning to eco-friendly lifestyles, buildings, and diets. However, there is a bit of a difference between an environmentally friendly diet and a plant-based diet. Both options are green diets, but they focus on various aspects. An eco-friendly diet will offer more food groups and options for meals than a more strict plant-based diet. Plant-based diets are not bad or significantly more complex than environmentally friendly diets, but there are some extra steps and potential pitfalls to watch out for. As the trend continues to grow, it is worth taking the time to ensure you are jumping on the trend as safely as possible. Changing your diet is still a significant change for your body, so ensure any new diet is … [Read more...]

The Global Surge: Exploring the Rise of Cosmetic Surgeries

In recent years, there has been a notable surge in the popularity of cosmetic surgeries worldwide. From subtle enhancements to transformative procedures such as breast lift or ThermiVa vaginal rejuvenation in El Segundo, CA, individuals are increasingly turning to surgical interventions to achieve their desired aesthetic goals. Let's delve into the global landscape of cosmetic surgeries and explore the statistics that underscore this evolving trend. The Global Phenomenon Cosmetic surgery has transcended cultural and geographical boundaries, becoming a global phenomenon. The desire to enhance physical appearance and achieve a more youthful look seems to be a universal aspiration, fueling the proliferation of cosmetic procedures across continents. Statistics Speak Volumes According to … [Read more...]

Tips for Eco-Friendly Home Improvements

Improving, updating, and or renovating your home is always an exciting idea, but not everyone considers how home improvements will affect the environment. Home improvements are not inherently bad for the climate, but there are choices you can make that will lower your household's carbon footprint. You can both make your renovation process eco-friendly and use renovations to make your house more eco-friendly in the future. Starting home improvements can be a slippery slope as you see more and more things to update, but the foundation of eco-friendly living is not using things unnecessarily. While excessive upgrades are both expensive and not the greenest idea, that doesn't mean you are limited in ways to make your home better. Home renovations are not small tasks and can take months … [Read more...]

Favorite Jewelry for Spring Including Diamond Rings

Disclaimer: Please know this partnership is between the Responsival agency and TMC. Affiliate links are used and compensation is received through those links.  Opinions are 100% my own.   @_entreprenerd via unsplash.com The last few days have been really beautiful here in Virginia.  The snow has melted, the sun has come out, and the temperatures are rising.  When I step outside there is a feeling of freshness and dare I say it?  There is a feeling of hope and that good things are just around the corner. Daisy ring for spring. I feel like getting outside more and getting dressed again.   In the last few weeks, I have stepped away from leggings, slippers, and oversized tops.  I am wearing real pants again, putting on lipstick before I start my workday, and adding accessories … [Read more...]

Green Driving & Saving Money

Photo courtesy of unsplash.com @volkancakmaz It's been a year since I went to Fully Charged in Austin, TX.  In that time I've thought a lot about reducing my carbon footprint, saving money, and green driving.  The pandemic has certainly helped me to drive less too.  The folks at Zutobi helped out with these tips. They even included ways to help save and manage money. However, if you really want to manage your money in an efficient way you shouldn't rely on tips from the internet, consider hiring an accounting expert for professional help. What Is Green Driving? Green Driving, also known as Energy-efficient driving, Eco Driving, and Smart Driving is a combination of efficient driving techniques that you can use to reduce your carbon footprint. Green driving practices saves you money … [Read more...]

Smart Ways to Motivate Yourself to Work Out

mother daughter stretching

Most people know they should work out but lack the motivation to actually work out. We all know we should exercise regularly, eat healthily, get enough sleep, and do many other healthy living tasks, but there is a big difference between knowing what to do and doing it. At the start of every new year, many people force themselves to start working out and stick with the plan for a few weeks before motivation lapses again. So long as the desire to get in shape is there, motivation can be improved, and there are plenty of new ways to stimulate your interest in working out again. A combination of psychological tricks and modern technology can bring back your motivation to work out, so you no longer dread that time of day. It is the start of a new year, so use these tips and tricks to get back … [Read more...]