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A True Dad Is Not The One Who Pays The Bills, But The One Who Understands That Family Comes First

A true dad is the one who understands that family comes first.

Any man can become a father. Any man can create life. However, it takes someone special to nurture, shape, and love that life.

A true dad is not the one who makes enough money to buy his wife and kids expensive gifts or take them on a 10-day vacation twice a year.

A true father is not the one who earns enough money to send his kids to study in elite schools or pay the bills.

A true dad is the one who understands that family comes first.

A true father is the one who is always there for his family. The one who doesn’t abandon his family the second things get tough. The one who doesn’t leave his family to deal with their problems alone. The one who doesn’t give up on his family and claim that he did the best he could and that there wasn’t anything more that he could’ve done to keep his family together.

A true father is the one who is willing to invest time and effort in his family even when he feels tired and even when he feels like he’s not in his comfort zone.

A true, devoted dad is the one who is willing to make compromises and sacrifice his own needs, wishes, and even happiness for the sake of his family. The one who teaches his kids about unconditional love and support.

A true, good dad is the one who is an example of how women should be properly treated. (1)

The one who treats women with respect, kindness, generosity, and dignity.

A true, loving father is the one who teaches his children about the importance of the virtues of kindness, patience, honesty, and loyalty.

The one who’d never be caught lying or manipulating his family or someone else. The one who teaches his children how to build relationships that are based on trust and respect.

A true, loving father is the one who teaches his children the meaning of proper, decent behavior.

The one who’d never be caught calling his kids or wife “useless,” “incompetent,” “weak,” or “stupid.” The one who’d never allow himself to lose his temper in a way that could make his family feel threatened.

A true, devoted father is the one who places his family as the most important thing in his life.

The one who knows that there is no such problem, argument, or temptation that is more important than his family. The one who knows that there’s no greater and stronger love than the love one can feel for their family.

A true, devoted father is the one who serves as a role model and an inspiration to his family.

The one who encourages his children to work on themselves and grow both personally and professionally. The one who teaches his children how to become the best version of themselves.

A true father is the one who shows his family what pure happiness and joy feel like.

The one who feels the most content when he knows his children are happy.

A true, loving father is the one who knows what his children’s favorite singers, sports, and hobbies are. The one who knows what his children’s likes, dislikes, dreams, and wishes are.

A true, caring father is the one who never allows his own problems to take away his children’s happiness.

The one who, no matter how much dissatisfied with his own life is, never allows this to make his children feel the same way.

A true father is the one for whom his children can proudly say: “He is my role model, my best friend, my mentor, and my coach. He’s my father.”

Indeed, having this kind of father is a real blessing.

 

Flinging Cheese At Babies’ Faces Is The Latest Challenge Taking The Internet By Storm

A bizarre social media challenge is taking the internet by storm: flinging slices of American cheese at babies’ faces and then posting their reactions on social media so that everyone can see them.

While some people have played this prank on their siblings, dads, moms, grandparents, and dogs, unfortunately, the general “victim” is babies.

If you search for videos showing this bizarre prank on the internet, you’ll see that the unsuspecting babies have different reactions. Some try to eat the cheese, some smile through it, and others look utterly confused.

Although this challenge is not a form of child abuse, Sandy Santana, Children’s Rights executive director, cautioned parents about this prank. She said:

“This phenomenon is not child abuse and is generally not meant to harm the child. But parents should, first and foremost, treat their children with care. Throwing cheese at helpless babies can, in some cases, shock them and lead to unnecessary discomfort. Is that really worth a few social media likes?”

Famous model and a mother of two, Chrissy Teigen, also didn’t approve of this challenge. In a Twitter post, she said: “I love a prank as much as anybody, but I cannot get myself to throw cheese at my adorable, unsuspecting baby who has all the hope and trust in the world in me.”

However, one mom from New York, Lauren Jorgenson, found this challenge pretty interesting and gladly participated in it. “You gotta learn how to live a little. He isn’t upset. It’s not like I threw a bag of flour at his face. We all have our different ways of parenting, mine’s just a little cheesy!” – this woman said of her child.

Scroll down to check the video.

Poor, Abandoned Dog Carries A Bowl Everywhere He Goes Hoping That Someone Would Feed Him

There are a lot of people who think that strays are usually being fed by random, kind strangers, but that is not always the case.

Just imagine how you would feel if you were left all alone on the streets. On top of everything, just imagine how you would feel if no one understood a word you said.

That’s what is like for stray animals. These creatures are forced to live in extreme temperatures, to wander the streets all by themselves, to starve for days and to now know whether someone will help them or hurt them. They cannot communicate their basic needs to the world, and they are usually ignored by everyone.  

This video below will break your heart, but I honestly hope that it will also open your eyes and inspire you to get this message across.

 

Personally, it left me with tears in my eyes. Just seeing him running around with that bowl in his mouth waiting for some kind and caring human being to give him food reminded me how cruel and unjust this world is. There is no reason for any living being to suffer this way. No one deserves such treatment. No one deserves to struggle in life.

So, tell me. Why are we that indifferent? Most importantly, how can we be that indifferent when there are thousands and thousands of poor, starving living creatures on the streets?

I am truly heartbroken.

Luckily, the only people that bring my hopes back are those few, rare individuals who truly care about these helpless beings and actually work hard on solving this issue. World Animal Awareness Society is one of those groups that are working on spreading this message across. And they are succeeding in their goals.

But now it is your turn to do the same. We all have a responsibility to help these poor creatures. Every action you take makes a difference in their small world. So, know that whether you decide to adopt them, share this article, buy food and feed them, donate money for them, you are helping them.

What Happens When you Get your First DUI? Everything to Know

If you have ever wondered what happens when you get your first dui, click here to learn more about what you should do and what to expect.

Ever wondered what happens when you get your first DUI? Do you lose your driving license? Do you go to jail? Do you appear in court and pay a fine?

Getting arrested for drunken driving can be scary. But driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is scarier and dangerous. You risk your life, as well as the lives of your passengers and other people on the road.

Here is a list of some of the things that will happen when you get your first DUI:

You’ll Be Arrested and Booked

The first thing that will happen when police officers suspect you of driving under the influence is an arrest. They’ll place you into a police vehicle and take you to the closest police station for booking. The officers will take your fingerprints and mug shot for record keeping.

In some states, you’ll be released immediately if someone like your DWI lawyer pays your bail and drives you home.

You’ll Be Required to Appear in Court

During the arrest, officers will give you a ticket that indicates the day and time you’ll be required to appear in court. When you attend your court hearing, don’t try to deny the charges if indeed you were driving under the influence. If you do, the court will play a video of you taking the field sobriety test – which is captured by the arresting officer’s dashboard camera.

If you failed the test, it would be a shame to be disgraced in front of the whole courtroom.

You’ll Lose Your Driving License

After conviction, you’ll lose your driving privileges for a specified period. This happens in all states. In some states, the arresting officer will suspend your license immediately if you refuse to take a breathalyzer, blood, or field sobriety test.

You’ll Be Required to Pay a Fine

If the court finds you guilty of driving under the influence, your sentence will include a fine. All states have specific penalty limits for DUI charges.

However, if your drunken driving included property damage or your driving endangered the life of another party, such as a child in the passenger seat, the fines will be higher. Most states also require you to cater for the court fees associated with handling your case.

You May Go to Jail

In recent years, many states are opting to have jail terms as mandatory punishment, even for first-time DUI offenders. The jail terms only last for a day or two. But if you’re a repeat offender, expect to spend more than two days in lockup.

Your Car Insurance Rates Will Rise

When your insurance provider learns of your DUI arrest and conviction, they’ll increase your insurance premiums. The increment may be a few hundred dollars, or in some cases several thousands of dollars. It will also become increasingly difficult for you to get another insurance company offering you affordable rates. This is why it’s very important to use an online service to compare car insurance companies to find the lowest rate with full coverage.

You’ll Have to Enroll for an Alcohol and Drug Education Program

What happens when you get your first DUI is that you’re required to enroll for an alcohol and drug education program. Only after completing this program will your license be issued back. As part of this program, you’ll be evaluated to determine if you have an alcohol or drug abuse problem.

That’s What Happens When You Get Your First DUI

Never drink and drive! It’s as simple as that. What happens when you get your first DUI is more than what’s listed above. Costly damages may occur, someone could be maimed for life, or life could be lost!

Don’t forget to bookmark our site and keep checking back for the latest posts!

 

How to Get Out of Debt Fast Even On a Low Income

Low income no problem you can still pay off your debt fast. Keep reading for how to get out of debt fast even on a low income.

The average American is $38,000 in debt. This can come from a variety of places, including student loans, healthcare bills, and car loans, but a huge chunk of this—25%, to be exact—is in the form of credit card debt.

When you have a low income, it’s all too easy to get buried in debt. After a while, you may question if you’ll ever be able to pay it all off.

The good news is that getting out of debt is possible (especially with a debt consolidation loan), and you don’t need to get a serious pay raise to do so.

Do you want to know more? Keep reading to learn how you can lower and even eliminate your debt while on a low income.

Make or Update Your Budget

The first step in paying off your debt is getting a handle on your personal finances. If you don’t already have a solid budget in place, now is the time to create one. If you do have a budget, consider updating it to fit your current needs.

Creating a budget is easier than it sounds. Simply start by writing down your take-home income. This is the money you have left after taxes, insurance, and 401k contributions have been made.

Then, create a list of all your expenses, including rent or mortgage, your cell phone bill, loan payments, gas, groceries, eating out, and entertainment. When you subtract your monthly expenses from your take-home income, you should come up with a positive number, meaning you have money left over to put into savings or towards paying off your debts.

If you’re barely breaking even or spending more than you’re earning, you’ll need to make some serious changes to your budget. Which brings us to our next point…

Cut Back Wherever Possible

Even if you have extra money leftover at the end of the month, it’s always a good idea to cut back on expenses while trying to get out of debt.

The first places to look at are non-essentials, like eating out and entertainment. Even cutting out that weekly night at the bar and opting to drink at your friend’s house instead can save you a couple of hundred bucks at the end of the month.

Another big money saver is to cancel cable TV and opt for a TV streaming service like Netflix or Hulu.

It’s also a good idea to look at your necessities. Could you downgrade to a smaller apartment or trim costs on your cell phone bill? Can you switch to store brand foods instead of brand-name at the grocery store?

The more places you cut back, the more you can put towards debt payments. Even small savings here and there can add up into something big over time.

Get a Side Gig

When dealing with debt, it’s only natural to wish you made more money. But why not turn that wish into reality?

If getting a new and higher-paid job is out of the question, consider getting a side gig. Part-time serving and bartending jobs often leave you with a nice sum of money at the end of the night, but any job would help.

If you can’t pick up a second job, consider freelancing or doing odd jobs. If you’re good with your hands, you can offer to clean out gutters or repair things in your neighbor’s home for a small fee. Those with talent in writing, photography, or graphic design can find freelance opportunities online.

Focus on One Debt at a Time

The easiest way to pay off debt is to make more than the minimum payment every month. Of course, it can be hard to do this with every debt.

The best thing to do is identify what debt you want to pay off first. Ideally, this would be the debt with the highest interest rate. However, if you have any small debts that are almost paid off, you may feel better finishing these off first.

Once you’ve decided which debt you’ll tackle, make more than the minimum payment every month while still making the minimum amount on all other debts. After this debt has been paid off, pick another debt to focus on and repeat this process.

Consider Consolidating Your Debt

If you’re having trouble balancing all your different debts, consider consolidating them into one large loan. This will make it easier to manage, and you may even be able to get a lower interest rate.

Of course, you don’t have to consolidate all your loans. Let’s say you searched Bonsai Finance and discovered you could get a loan with a 7% interest rate. All your loans that have interest rates higher than that can be consolidated, but you can keep your loans with better interest rates separate to save the most money.

Talk to Your Creditors

Another option to manage your interest rates is to simply call your creditor and ask for a lower rate. It may seem like a long shot, but this actually happens fairly often. Plus, the worst thing that could happen is they say no, and your rates remain where they are.

Don’t stop at creditors, either. Oftentimes car insurance, cable, and internet bills can all be negotiated for a lower rate, saving you tons of money.

Paying Off Debt with a Low Income

Don’t settle for a life of debt. Instead, follow the above tips to help you pay off your loans. From updating your budget to asking creditors for a lower interest rate, there are tons of ways those with a low income can tackle debt.

Is your financial situation causing you a lot of stress? Then check out our anxiety and health blog pages for tips to help you relax.

 

15 Popular Houseplants to Add Some Green to Your Space

Looking to add a bit of green in your home? Why not try one of these 15 popular houseplants!

Are you looking for something new to spice up your personal space? Getting a houseplant would be a great investment for your home. Houseplants bring color, life and even help to purify the air within your home.

Trendy indoor plants are making a comeback in home decor. Everyone loves a room filled with fabulous green plants. 

There are many different kinds of houseplants to choose from. Some that require low light and minimal work while others may need to be kept a close eye on. Sometimes the best way to kill a plant is by watering it too much so be careful.

Keep reading to find the 15 most popular houseplants and hopefully find one to add to your home.

  1. Pothos Plant

This is a very trendy indoor houseplant because of its leaves. It is a very low maintenance plant and often called “devil’s ivy” because it is very hard to kill. You will want to hang this plant high so the vines are able to grow long.

This is a great plant for rooms with bright and indirect sunlight but it can also tolerate low light conditions. You will want to wait for your pothos plant to dry out before watering. 

  1. Bunny Ear Cactus

A bunny ear cactus plant is different from the normal cactus you may be thinking of. This plant will bring a fun and unique element to your space. It has flat branches that look fuzzy but are definitely still prickly like a cactus.

You will find the bunny ear cactus very easy to take care of. This plant does need a lot of sunlight. Make sure you let all of the excess water drain out of this plant and remove any water left in the saucer after watering. 

  1. Red Prayer Plant

This is another unique plant because its leaves have hints of red and pink shades. These colors really pop out against the dark green leaves and will be a staple in your home.

It also grows very fast and can adapt to nearly all light conditions.

You should water this plant when the topsoil gets dry and it’s recommended to mist your red prayer plant every once in a while. During the day the plant’s leaves lay flat but at night they fold up like they’re praying which is where they get their name.  

  1. Fiddle Leaf Fig

This plant can grow up to 50 feet tall but only in its natural tropical rain forest environment. If you want your fiddle leaf fig to grow nice and tall you may need to change pot sizes as it grows.

Also known as the ficus lyrata, this plant does best in bright but indirect light. You will know when to water your fiddle leaf fig when its leaves become soft and the topsoil is dry. You can get more Ficus Lyrata Info and even buy one for your own home. 

  1. Calathea Orbifolia

This is a plant with huge leaves and thick white streaks running through it. You may find yourself caring for your Calathea Orbifolia a bit differently than some of the other houseplants you find. You will need to stay calm and make slow adjustments for your plant to thrive.

This plant requires low but reliable light, moist soil and good drainage. The Calathea Orbifolia is a plant for someone with a lot of time and passion on their hands. 

  1. Crocodile Fern

This fern is becoming more and more popular. It’s big glossy leaves and texture make it appear to look just like alligator skin.

This is another plant that requires extra care and will need to be looked after a few times a week.

The crocodile fern needs a lot of water but does not do well if its soil is constantly wet and soggy. A bathroom or kitchen would be the best place for this plant because they need humidity. 

  1. Areca Palm

The areca palm, also known as the golden cane palm, is a very tall plant and could be the focal point of any room.

They do well in direct sunlight but also can use a little bit of shade once in a while. You will need to make sure this plant has a good drainage system because it does not do well if there is water stuck around its roots in the soil.

Palms will also help purify the air in your home which makes them a great choice for a houseplant.

  1. Elephant Ears Plant

If you’re looking for a big plant to fill space in your home, then the elephant ears plant is the one for you. This tropical plant has 2-3 foot leaves that can be purplish-black, green or even a white and green mix.

You will want to display it in direct sunlight but it will also require a bit of shade so it doesn’t burn. You may want to invest in a humidifier for this plant because it does require high humidity to really thrive. You will also want to keep the temperature in your home between 65-75 F.

The elephant ears plant requires a lot of extra attention and is good for plant owners who are able to adapt. 

  1. Snake Plant

A snake plant would be a great centerpiece for a low-end table because they grow very tall although some can also be a bit short. This is another unique plant that will add character to any room especially a bedroom.

Besides its uniqueness, this is an extremely popular houseplant because it is very easy to care for. Make sure the soil of your snake plant is completely dry before giving it any more water.

This plant is very versatile when it comes to light. They can do well in low light which makes them good for a bedside table but can also adapt if they are put in high light. They will not do well in direct sunlight though and may even burn. 

  1. Ivy

Ivy’s leaves are very bright and distinct and could look good in any part of your home. They also go well in pretty much any planter. You could hang ivy or plant it in a large concrete bowl.

This plant also likes to be kept on the drier side and you should only water ivy when the topsoil is completely dry. Ivy prefers shaded areas that are like woodland environments but they are able to tolerate a bit of sunlight. 

  1. Anthurium

The anthurium will be a good conversation starter when guests come over to your house. It’s waxy red flowers almost make it look fake.

This plant is very easy to care for and will add a pop of color to all of your other beautiful house plants. The anthurium likes a well-lit place to stay but does not do well in direct sunlight.

You may want to put your anthurium in the bathroom because they do well with high humidity and warmth. You can get away with watering this plant once every one to two weeks but to really make it feel like the tropical plant it is you can spray it with water every once in a while too. 

  1. Chinese Water Bamboo

This is another easy plant to care for but also one of the top trendy house plants. If you tend to over water plants then this is a great one for you because they only require water to grow.

The Chinese water bamboo will do alright in low light levels but will not grow as much. If you place this plant in bright light it will do much better but avoid direct sunlight so it doesn’t burn.

You will want to keep this plant in lots of water and you also may need to change the water once in a while too. 

  1. Tillandsia

Tillandsia is apart of the succulent family, which are by far the easiest plants to take care of. They also tend to be very small houseplants so you can put them pretty much anywhere in your home.

You can occasionally mist this plant but they generally get all the water they need form the humidity in the air. The tillandsia doesn’t require soil as they do not have a root system and can be put in very unique planters to display them.

This plant is often referred to as an air plant because it gets it’s water from the air and doesn’t need any soil.

  1. String of Pearls

This is a different plant from your typical houseplant because of it’s small green bubbles hanging from its thin stem. String of pearls is definitely a quirky plant and will draw attention from all of your guests.

This plant also belongs in the succulent family making it fairly easy to care for. You will want to put this plant in bright light such as a sunny windowsill. You can soak the soil thoroughly when watering this plant but make sure it is able to completely dry out before watering it again. 

  1. Chinese Money Plant

The Chinese money plant has a very distinctive look because its leaves almost look like flat round coins.

This plant grows fairly quickly. You will want to let this plant’s soil dry out in between watering. If the leaves start to droop this is a sign your Chinese money plant needs more water.

This plant happily thrives in bright spaces but does not need direct sunlight. 

Even More Popular Houseplants

This is only a short list of trendy popular houseplants but there are many more. 

Whether you’re in the market for something easy to handle or you want something to care for and spend extra time with, then there is a houseplant for you. 

If you or a friend are looking for fun and trendy houseplants then please share this guide with them and find the perfect houseplant for your home.

I Can See Clearly Now! How to Choose the Best Windows for Your Home

Are you planning a home renovation and need guidance when it comes to buying the best windows possible? Click here for a handy guide that should help.

Windows dominate the appearance of the house because of its structure, form, and placement. When decorating your home, the first place to start is with the windows. Most people underestimate the power of good windows on the general aesthetics of the home.

Whether you are thinking of replacing or buying new windows, you need to get the best for your home.

Take time to make the decision, and consult your contractor or an interior designer on the best windows to choose. If you do not, you risk losing a lot of time and money. There is also a chance that the windows may be a healthy and safety hazard.

Choosing the Best Windows

Windows are a big investment for any home. You, therefore, need to consider quality, budget, style, ROI and energy efficiency when buying. Here are some of the most critical things to look at when buying to ensure you get the best windows.

Security

Think about it, a home without windows is a doomsday bunker. This does not mean you necessarily need bulletproof windows. Whether you have a security system or not, good windows and doors offer your home security.

It is also true that windows are a home’s weak point. Therefore, you need to factor in security in your choice. Some of the things to consider are the strength of the glass, the quality of security screens, and the locks.

You also need to think about the distance of your windows from the ground. Most owners go shopping for windows based on their aesthetic goals and personal styles. Unfortunately, these objectives often leave you vulnerable to attacks.

One of the biggest issues is the visibilities that you grant burglars- whether the crime has been meticulously planned or are just crimes of opportunity.

The easiest way to get access to an individual’s home is by looking through the windows. If you live in areas that are particularly risky, choose windows that are not visible.

While still looking at the security aspect of the windows, you must consider the locks or lack of. When buying, think of the type of lock that will be placed on installment. If the type of window does not support a locking mechanism, you probably need to think twice.

Window locks are a necessity regardless of how high the window is from the ground.

The Type of Material

There are several types of materials to choose from when selecting the best windows. The choice is easier when you consider your location and application.

As a rule of thumb, windows that have greater insulating properties are more expensive. When considering materials, you must consider the material for the window frame and the type of glass you want.

Single Pane Glass

This is one of the old fashioned styles. However, it still works perfectly for locations with mild climates and outbuildings. It can also be aligned with the exterior designs you are going with.

Double Pane Glass

This is the most commonly used today. They have a seals air space that is between layers of glass. This helps reduce heat loss. They are available in different variations of insulation abilities including the low-E glass.

Low-E glass has an invisible coat of metal on the surface and has inert gas that is added therein for better insulation.

These are great because they reduce the cost of heat during the cold months. Remember that cost does not affect performance.

Triple Pane

If you are living in cold climate areas, this is the type you should consider. They are sealed with a mix of gases like krypton and argon, which provide added layers of insulation.
Statistics have shown that they can save up to 3% of the heating bill when compared with double pane windows.

However, they are also 15% more expensive so they may not be for homeowners who do not plan to stay in their homes for a long time.

The better the insulation on windows, the less you have to worry about condensation issues. The interior of the window maintains a temperature that is as close as possible to the room’s temperature. This prevents foggy windows when the cold weather outside meets the warm air inside the home.

Frames

When making the decision on windows, frames are an important consideration. They determine the sturdiness of the window aesthetic appeal and the fit of the window.

The frames are also of different types:

Vinyl

This is the least expensive choice and is easier to maintain. However, they do expand when exposed to heat and this reduces their ability to seal. If your area receives very hot sunlight, avoid it because it warps. The pain will need replacement every few months.

Wood

Wood is much more expensive than vinyl and needs to be repainted frequently to avoid sun damage and rotting. Most are made with stain-quality wood. It, therefore, looks better with age.

Aluminum

This is strong, affordable and requires little to no maintenance. It is also a big conductor of heat and cold. You, therefore, have to make energy considerations when making this choice.

Energy Efficiency Is Paramount

Heat loss and heat gain through windows are responsible for 25-30% of the heating and cooling energy uses in a home. It is therefore critical that you buy windows that are great for the climate in your area. The windows and frames should work together to save your energy bills.

You definitely need windows that will help you save money and keep your home at the right temperatures. The thinnest point of windows is often at the point where the exterior and interior meet.

You, therefore, need to make sure that you get the best quality to save time and protect your home. When it comes to heat loss and energy efficiency, there is a lot of lingoes. The terms you will hear repeatedly are R-value and U-value.

R-value measure how well the window resists heat flow. The higher the R-value, the more heat efficient it is. U-value, on the other hand, tells you just how well the window will keep heat from escaping the home.

The lower this number is, the more efficient the window is. Keep these numbers in mind when you are determining the products that are best for your home.

The Color of the Windows

The color of the windows will vary from one home to another. Choosing the exterior color is a huge factor when considering the curb appeal of the home. While there are numerous options available.

Always make sure that the color complements the rest of the house and enhances its overall look. The color in the interior is something that should seamlessly blend into the overall look of the home. You can also choose neutral colors like white that will go well with any type of décor.

Window Styles

The next step is to choose the type and style of windows that will complement your home. This will determine the aesthetic appeal of your home and the way it ties altogether. There are four basic types:

Single or Double Hung Windows

These are the most common windows that are found in most homes. They have two separate sashes that close and open by sliding up and down.

The sash is the actual pane of the inner frame of the glass. With a single hung window, it opens from the bottom by sliding up. Double hung windows, on the other hand, can either be opened from the top or below.

For areas like the basement and kitchens that need constant air flow, double hung windows are the best especially when you lower the bottom sash. There are also great for areas where there are small children since they eliminate the risk of children climbing out of the window.

Casement Windows

These types of windows have one large sash. The sash is vertically hinged and that swings out to open. Often, a lever is used to open it.

Awning Windows

These are hinged at the top and open by tilting them from the bottom. As their name suggests, they create an awning appearance when they open. They are most popularly used in the coastal areas and in bathrooms.

Sliders

These types of windows open by sliding from one side to the other. They are perfect for homes with limited space to place windows that open from outside. They fit perfectly on the walls since they do not take up much space.

Impact Resistance

The last thing you want is to install windows that are a danger to your family. You need to look for impact-resistant windows. This does not mean that it will not break when whacked by a baseball bat or a stone.

However, it will not shutter and spread the glass all over the place. The best part is that it will hold up even under extreme weather. The occasional stray baseball will not leave you with a dangerous mess to deal with.

Warranty

Carefully read the manufacturers’ paperwork on what the warranties cover concerning the glass. Good window companies will cover you for most issues including fogging between the windows. The better the services of the company, the longer, and better the warranty will be.

Like With All the Items You Will Purchase In Your Home, You Must Make Decisions That Will Get You the Best Windows

Do not settle for the first one. Take your time when looking for the best windows. Find time to look through the different options available before you make your choice. Also, keep in mind the ROI. Some costly windows will have a higher impact on the sale value of your home than cheaper alternatives.

Read more on our blog for more life hacks, tips, and tricks.

10 Great Websites to Buy Designer Clothing Online

Thanks to the internet, designer clothing is available to anyone anywhere! Check out these great websites to buy designer clothing online

About 96 percent of people in the United States shop online.

Online shopping has become popular since we can buy designer clothing online directly through our phones. It’s no longer necessary to visit stores to get the items we want.

We all fancy the finer products in life. However, we don’t want to spend much on designer clothes, bags, shoes, and accessories. Thus, we prefer shopping in stores that provide discounted items.

Below are 10 great websites to buy designer clothing online.

  1. The Outnet

This online retail site sells designer clothes at a discounted price. Various designer apparel such as jewelry, handbags, and shoes are sold here.

Up-to-date collections are available on the retail site. The site also offers free shipping services.

  1. RueLala

RueLala is among the best places to buy designer clothing online. It offers a variety of ways to shop. You can opt to shop for specific products from their ever-changing items. You can also shop from their flash sales, which are available to fashion designers.

To receive alerts on the available flash sales, you need to sign up through email. For your first 30 days, RueLala offers you free shipping.

  1. SSENSE

SSENSE is an e-commerce retailer that sells streetwear, luxury clothes, and shoes. It sells products such as Balenciaga, trench coats, hoodies, and t-shirts.

  1. Saks Off 5th Ave

The outlet store sells both luxury designer products and everyday affordable clothes. Also, it’s quite easy to navigate the website.

  1. 6PM

The website provides a whole section with designer accessories, bags, shoes, and clothes. Here, you shop by brand and sort the products easily by price. The kind of lines and brands offered by 6PM are hard to find on other sites that offer designer products.

Although they don’t offer curated collections, their styles come in a wide variety.

  1. Bag Borrow or Steal

The online retailer sells both second-hand and new accessories and bags. You can also rent or borrow their bags for a short time. They offer new designs of bags for borrowing.

Besides, you can choose to either buy or rent some amazing vintage bags offered by the store. To add icing on the cake, they offer free shipping services.

  1. Century 21

Sometimes you may think ‘where can I buy designer clothing at an affordable price?’ Century 21 provides designer products at a discounted price of up to 80 percent or more. The retailer also offers non-designer items.

They offer all kinds of clothes from high-end to the every-day wearable ones.

  1. Gilt

Here, they offer both casual and designer sales at affordable sales. Aside from the usual products such as shoes, accessories, and bags, Gilt also offers sections for home accessories.

The store caters for those looking for good products but at low prices.

  1. Overstock

Overstock is well known for their affordable home goods section. They also have amazing offers on designer accessories, bags, and shoes.

  1. Luxury Garage Sale

The online retail site offers a subscription retail box for designer outfits. You fill out a form about your desired clothing then a box is created for you. You pay and keep for what you need and send back the rest in a prepaid box. 

Buy Designer Clothing Online In the Best Websites

If you’re looking to buy affordable designer and non-designer clothes online, then you should visit the above websites. They not only provide the best products but also have free shipping services.

Luxury is expensive. However, the above retail stores will help you buy designer clothing online.

 

Luxury Fashion for Kids Is on the Rise

Adults aren’t the only ones interested in designer fashion. Top brands are targeting a whole new “little” market with luxury fashion for kids.

Children’s clothing has become a $1.4 billion market, according to Euromonitor. 

But why? How did childrenswear shift from mud-stained hand-me-downs to streetwear and high-dollar accessories? 

The answer: millennials. In fact, 40 percent of them are parents. But what’s driving their sudden interest in fashion for kids? 

Well, many things. 

The Evolution of Fashion for Kids

The 2010s have ushered in a new era of fashion for kids, with name brands like Givenchy, Balenciaga, and Marc Jacobs introducing their own products specifically for the demographic. Some retailers like Nickis have even started compiling their own databases of collections for them.

Here are a few reasons why.

Selfie Culture

With Instagram’s explosion in popularity also came the rise of selfie culture. Users would flaunt their daily looks in mirror pics tagged #OOTD to show all of their followers how put-together and “in style” they were.

While Instagram filters and hashtagged selfies might be becoming a thing of the past, their influence continues to thrive in today’s internet culture. Targeted social media ads have become more profitable than newspaper or magazine ads, according to Hootsuite. 

And now, that influence is extending beyond the limits of age. As more parents are waiting until later in life to have children — and having fewer children, too — they’re also amassing more disposable income than generations before them. 

The result? Children under nine, dressed to the nines. Kids are becoming miniatures of their parents’ own self-expression. After all, what’s more on-brand than matching Gucci handbags with your tot? 

‘Influencers’

While social media continues to factor into the rising popularity of kids couture clothing, there has to be a driving force behind it: influencers. 

You see them all over your feed and discovery pages — celebrities with millions of followers flaunting their envious lifestyles through selfies, videos, and story highlights. They promote cars, makeup, clothing brands, health products, and even events because they know that imitation is the highest form of flattery. 

Take Kylie Jenner for example. She used the power of social media to build a successful cosmetic empire. And now that she’s a mother, she’s capitalizing off that, too. 

Her daughter, Stormi, is often featured on her Instagram in designer threads from head to toe, whether for photoshoots or days out on the town with mommy.

And she’s not the only one. One could argue that Jenner is following in the footsteps of Kim Kardashian-West, who regularly features her children, North and Saint, in similar attire. The West family has even launched their own clothing line for kids.

Essentially, social media has become a powerful tool for keeping up with the hottest trends. But the users of social media are the ones who curate those trends and make them, well, trends in the first place. 

Children Grow… Fast

Men’s and women’s clothing lines remain relatively static in the sense that their consumers tend to shop the same sizes once they’ve reached their growth spurt. 

But children are a whole other market of undiscovered potential, creativity, and profitability.

It seems that every month, your child outgrows that treasured pair of pants or that reliable winter coat. So why not use that to your advantage as a designer?

The need for new childrenswear is almost constant, lending itself to opportunities for exploration and risk-taking that just can’t be done with more traditional lines. If a children’s design flops, not all is lost. Soon it’ll be outgrown anyway, and then it’ll be time for the parents to accommodate the child’s next stage of life. 

Like Mother Like Daughter

Just as “everyday people” use social media to learn what’s hot, children learn how to dress from their parents. While some might see luxury children’s clothes as a way for parents to exercise their own freedom of expression, they’re forgetting a critical part of the equation: the children themselves. 

Luxury fashion has opened up a whole other avenue for children to explore. Maybe your son just isn’t into dinosaurs and dump trucks, or your daughter isn’t drawn to bows or the color pink.

Designer fashions let children speak for themselves in ways they never could before. Sure, they might not know the worth of what they’re wearing, but is that really the point? What more could you ask for than letting your child point at an outfit with sparkling eyes and say, “That one”? 

Not for Everyone

If you’re looking to join the ranks of some of the most successful childrenswear designers in the world, you have to stay up-to-date on relevant legislation pertaining to child safety. The industry comes with its own set of risks that might not apply to industries for men’s or women’s wear. 

Is the fabric safe for kids? Breathable? Are there any small accessories that might present a choking hazard? Are the shoes slip-resistant for even the most accident-prone child? These are just some of the things you’ll have to consider that you might not have had to in another industry. 

Overall, fashion for kids has allowed both parents and their offspring to bond over a common interest in ways they never have before. It’s promoted impressive economic growth, creativity, and competition among brands worldwide. 

Most importantly, it has allowed children the same freedom of expression afforded to their parents. No longer are they limited to the stereotypes and gender norms of generations before them. Now, they are in control of their own closets, starting from a much younger age.

Wondering about the stories behind other recent fads? Visit our contact page to see your questions answered on our blog.

 

5 Warning Signs of Pest Infestation at Home

Do you hear noises in the walls? See pest droppings? These things and more? Here are five warning signs that you’ve got a pest infestation!

Do you have a pest infestation in your home?

These pesky creatures are not only annoying but also a health risk. According to EPA, indoor pests such as cockroaches are responsible for respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergies.

In addition to risking your health, pests also cause massive property damage. Termites damage property worth $5 million every year. Thus, the sooner you identify the infestation, the faster you can control it before it wreaks havoc in your home.

With this in mind, here are five telltale signs you have a pest infestation in your home.

Unusual Noises in Your Home

Pests such as rodents are certainly everything but not silent. During the night, when your home is quiet, they will run around making noises as they look for food. This is the best time to spot them.

Listen out for unusual noises in areas such as the garage, kitchen, crawl spaces, attic, and storage spaces during the night. If you have rodents, you’ll certainly hear them make a pitter-patter sound of their small feet as they dominate your home.

Unpleasant Odors

One telltale sign of a pest infestation is the presence of unexplainable odors in your home. Pests, especially rats, leave behind musky odors of urine and droppings. If you catch a whiff of an unexplained smell in your kitchen, garage, or pantry, it’s time to investigate.

Pest urine leaves behind an ammonia-like smell that’s almost choking. If you notice this, take immediate action before the pesky creatures contaminate your food and cause health risks.

Droppings and Carcasses

Have you recently seen dark, cylindrical droppings that resemble ground coffee or black pepper? Or have you noticed shiny, black droppings in your cabinets and storage units? Have you seen abandoned wings or carcasses of dead cockroaches in your home?

If so, you have a pest infestation. As with other animals, pests leave behind droppings in the places they frequent. What’s more, those with wings also tend to shed them in your home.

If you notice droppings and carcasses, you have a pest infestation in your home.

Pest Nestings

Pests such as rodents will build nests in the dark and unused parts of your home such as the crawl spaces, attic, and in old, unused furniture. Be on the lookout for such nestings as they are an indication you have unwanted guests.

Most pests won’t be in their nests when you come looking. However, you can use subtle treatments to eliminate them when they do come “home.” One of such options is the in-wall pest control system.

Tubes filled with pesticide are installed in the walls in your home. They slowly release chemicals and exterminate pests.

Only a small amount of the chemical is released in your home. Thus, you don’t have to worry about heavy pesticide use and its effect on the health of the home’s occupants.

Damaged Fixtures and Wiring

The final but most destructive sign is damaged fixtures and wiring. Rodents and termites are notorious creatures that can cause massive property damage in your home.

Rodents chew on electrical wiring and can expose your home to electrical risks such as fires and electrocution. Termites eat at wooden furniture and cause irreversible damage.

If you suspect an infestation, inspect your furniture and wiring for physical damage and contact a pest control expert immediately.

Do You Have a Pest Infestation?

Pest extermination can be costly, but even more expensive is the process of restoring your home and valuables after a pest infestation. Take charge today and contact the experts for professional pest control services.