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Thoughts on How to Retire with Grace and Dignity

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Have you ever wondered if you’ll be able to retire gracefully when the time comes?

Miriam Goodman, a San Francisco-based writer and public relations consultant, states “As a writer ‘of a certain age,’ I was curious about my peers’ attitudes toward retirement, so about seven years ago I began interviewing them.”

After speaking with “several hundred” men and women over age 60, what Goodman found the most astounding was, “the level of denial and postponement in thinking about the togetherness issue.”

“…few had considered the psychological jolt that usually accompanies the end of a career.”

A 61-year-old woman; she is happily married to a successful businessman and has two daughters. It sounds like the perfect situation for a happy retirement, doesn’t it?

“I feel isolated and worthless. Although I’m fit and active, I feel I’ve been thrust into death’s waiting room far too early. A retired friend of mine joked grimly that it’s like finding yourself in an airport departure lounge waiting for your final journey. You know the plane will leave. You just don’t know when.”

 Reread; both parts again, if you must. It’s hard to believe.

This same lady had planned a big birthday party to celebrate her 60th birthday – she ended up canceling at the last minute. The reason? When the moment came, she felt more like crying rather than celebrating. It wasn’t what she expected.

Redefining your plans to retire

We emphasize the financial aspects of retirement so much that far too few of us consider the emotional implications of such a drastic life change. This isn’t to say financial planning isn’t important, it is. Using tools like a retirement calculator canada can certainly help plan your finances effectively. However, true retirement readiness involves preparing for a fulfilling lifestyle, maintaining social connections, and pursuing meaningful activities.

But the retirement cure-all? It most certainly is not. One can reasonably argue it isn’t even the most important consideration.

Going a step further, one of the more disturbing myths about retirement is that it’s all about having enough money. Not only is it disturbing and misleading, but it’s also the source of grief for so many.

It’s not their fault. We’re inundated with terms like “Roth,” “401-k,” “interest-yielding,” “employer-matching,” “403-b,” “IRAs.”

In a society that’s infatuated with security and money, it’s no surprise that these same influences stay with us into our later years.

So, what are the critical things to consider for a long and happy relationship?

retirement

To begin thinking about and developing plans around, lifestyle issues when you retire.

Retirement is not the end of a happy and productive life – it’s the reward for what you and your partner have earned so far.

Now, you can use the rest of your time to do whatever you both want. Heck, work if you both want to.

Here is a set of questions to ask yourself and your partner before transitioning into retirement. Each issue is broken down into one of four categories: finances (gotta get it out of the way), handling change, health, and relationship implications.

And, of course, these things must be communicated – and agreed upon or negotiated with your partner.

21 Low Carb Keto Recipes That Are Perfect For Weight Loss

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Are you looking to start trying out some low carb keto recipes? If yes, then ensure to try keto recipes that are delicious and low in starch.
keto

Here are the top low carb Keto recipes:

1. Bacon Breakfast Bombs

The ingredients for this meal include pepper and salt, two tablespoons mayonnaise, a quarter cup of cubed butter, two big eggs, and four thickly-cut bacon slices.
The bacon is to be cooked in a big skillet with average to high heat until it is crispy. Chop the bacon after it cools and put it aside to reserve the bacon grease. Boil water with a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Include the eggs and continue to boil for ten minutes and transfer to a cold water bath.
Peel the eggs, chop them, and stir with butter, pepper, salt, and mayonnaise. Mix with the reserved bacon grease and make six portions of the mixture to roll into balls, and roll again in the crushed bacon. Serve twice.

2. Easy Cloud Buns

The meal’s ingredients include three ounces of chopped cream cheese, an eight teaspoon of tartar cream, and three large separated eggs.
Heat the oven in advance to 300 degrees Fahrenheit and use parchment to line a baking sheet. Beat the egg whites to become foamy and mix with tartar cream. Then beat the egg yolks and mix with cream cheese before folding in the previous mixture. Bake in the oven for half an hour and make ten servings.

3. Cabbage with Sausage Skillet

Ingredients include pepper and salt, a quarter cup of mayonnaise, a quarter cup of sour cream, two tablespoons of butter, and a half head of sliced green cabbage, and six big Italian sausage links.
Use a skillet to cook the sausages over medium heat until they are brown and slice them. Cook the cabbage with butter for three to four minutes until it wilts. Add the sliced sausage to the cabbage before stirring in the mayonnaise and sour cream. Season with pepper and salt and simmer for ten minutes. Serve four times.

4. Chicken Zoodle Alfredo

Ingredients include two hundred grams of zucchini, a quarter cup of grated parmesan cheese, a quarter cup of heavy cream, two tablespoons of butter, pepper and salt, one tablespoon of olive oil, and six ounces of chicken breasts.
Cook the chicken breasts in oil and season with pepper and salt. Then make strips of chicken by slicing the breasts. Stir heated butter in the parmesan cheese and the heavy cream, and cook to thickness. After spiralizing the zucchini put it into the sauce together with the chicken. Cook for two minutes and serve twice.

5. Pepper Jack Sausage Egg Muffins

Ingredients include a half a cup of shredded pepper jack cheese, two tablespoons of heavy cream, three large and whisked eggs, pepper and salt, a quarter teaspoon of garlic powder, a half cup of diced yellow onion, and ten ounces of ground breakfast sausage.
Mix the ground sausage, salt and pepper, diced onion, and garlic powder in a bowl.
Put the mixture evenly into three ramekins and press it to the sides and the bottom, leaving space in the middle. Whisk the heavy cream and eggs with pepper and salt.
Put the mixture in the ramekins while topping with shredded cheese. Bake for half an hour until the cheese is brown and the eggs cooked, and serve thrice.

6. Mozzarella Veggie Loaded Quiche

Ingredients include one teaspoon of chopped chives, one tablespoon of heavy cream, four halved cherry tomatoes, a quarter cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, a quarter cup of diced zucchini, a quarter cup of spinach, two slices of thickly-cut bacon, two big eggs, one tablespoon of grated parmesan cheese, six tablespoons of almond flour.
Mix the parmesan cheese and almond flour with an egg and salt to make a tender dough. Spread the dough in a pan and bake. Then cook the bacon and until it is brown before crumbling and spreading it on the baked dough.
Then add the tomatoes, cheese, zucchini, and spinach. Whisk the other egg together with pepper and salt, heavy cream, and chives and pour on top. Bake for half an hour until the egg is cooked and serve.

7. Savory Ham and Cheese Waffles

Ingredients include a quarter cup of shredded cheddar cheese, one ounce of diced ham, a half teaspoon of salt, a third cup of melted butter, one teaspoon of baking powder, two scoops of egg white protein powder, and four large eggs.
Beat two egg yolks with salt, butter, protein powder, and baking powder in a bowl, and fold in the grated cheddar cheese and chopped ham. Whisk the egg whites with salt and fold them into the egg yolk mixture in double batches. Then cook in a waffle maker until they become golden brown.
Fry the remaining eggs with salt and butter in a skillet. Serve the waffles with the fried eggs as the toppings.

8. Vanilla Protein Smoothie

Ingredients include a quarter cup of whipped cream, a half teaspoon of vanilla extract, one tablespoon of powdered erythritol, one tablespoon of coconut oil, four ice cubes, a quarter cup of vanilla almond milk, a half cup of heavy cream, and one scoop of egg vanilla egg white.
Mix all the ingredients in a blender, apart from whipped cream. Pour the smoothie in a glass and add whipped cream as the topping.

9. Lamb Chops with Rosemary and Garlic

Ingredients include one tablespoon of olive oil, a quarter pound of fresh trimmed asparagus, pepper and salt, one tablespoon of butter, six ounces of lamb chops, one clove minced garlic, one tablespoon of freshly chopped rosemary, and one tablespoon of melted coconut oil.
Mix the garlic, rosemary, and coconut oil in a bowl and add the lamb chops. Leave the lamb to marinate overnight in the fridge. Cook the lamb in butter and season with pepper and salt before turning to cook the other side. Mix the asparagus with salt and pepper, olive oil and broil. Serve with the lamb chops.

10. Cheesy Sausage with Mushroom Skillet

Cook sausages with oil until they are brown. Then cook onion and mushroom in a skillet until they are also brown. Slice the sausages and put into the skillet. Also add pepper and salt, thyme, and oregano. Add water and marinara sauce before cooking in the oven for ten minutes. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and cook for five more minutes till it melts. Serve twice. It is one of the most delicious keto recipes.

11. Rosemary Roasted Chicken with Veggies

Season chicken thighs with pepper and salt and put in the oven’s baking sheet. Put parsnip, carrots, and zucchini around the chicken and sprinkle garlic on top. Then mix balsamic vinegar, rosemary, and olive oil before drizzling over the chicken. Bake for half an hour and broil for five minutes to make the skins crispy. Serve twice. It is one of the best chicken keto recipes.

12. Avocado Lime Salmon

Blend cauliflower into tiny pieces and cook for eight minutes until soft. Mix red onion, lime juice, and avocado in a blender until smooth. Season your salmon with pepper and salt and cook with oil. Cook for five minutes each side. Serve the salmon with the cooked cauliflower and avocado cream. It is one of the sweetest low carb keto recipes.

13. Easy Beef Curry

Put ginger, garlic, and onion in a blender and mix into a paste. Cook the mixture in a saucepan for three minutes. Add coconut milk and simmer for ten minutes. Put your chopped beef as well as salt and curry powder and simmer for ten minutes. Simmer for twenty minutes more without a lid and add seasoning and freshly chopped cilantro. It is one of the healthiest low carb Keto recipes.

14. Spiced Pumpkin Soup

Put butter in a saucepan and heat before adding ginger, garlic, and onions to cook for four minutes. Add nutmeg, cinnamon, pepper, and salt and cook for one minute. Boil with chicken broth and pumpkin puree. Then cook your bacon until crispy. Serve the bacon with the pumpkin soup. It is one of the ideal low carb Keto recipes.

15. Sesame Pork Lettuce Wraps

Cook celery and saute, peppers, and onions with oil for five minutes. Add your pork and cook it till it’s brown. Put garlic powder and onion powder and mix with sesame oil and soy sauce. Season with pepper and salt and remove. Place lettuce leaves on a plate and put even servings of the pork into them. Drizzle them with sesame seeds and serve. It is one of the tastiest low carb Keto recipes.

16. Sweet Blueberry Coconut Porridge

Warm coconut milk with almond milk in a pan. Add salt, nutmeg, coconut flour, cinnamon, and flaxseed and cook till there is bubbling. Then stir in vanilla extract and sweetener and cook to thickness. Serve in a bowl and add shaved coconut and blueberries as toppings. It is one of the most effective low carb Keto recipes.

17. Lemon Poppy Ricotta Pancakes

Mix the liquid stevia, eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and ricotta in a blender. Mix it up with salt, baking powder, protein powder, almond flour, and poppy seeds. Make the mixture into pancakes with butter in a pan. Mix zest, lemon juice, powdered erythritol, and heavy cream and drizzle on the served pancakes.

18. Baked Eggs in Avocado

Crack two eggs into two halves of peeled and sliced avocado. Season with pepper and salt and bake for ten minutes and drizzle with cheese. Bake for three more minutes until the cheese melts. It is one of the best low carb Keto recipes.

19. Broccoli Mash with Spicy Shrimp

This is one of the healthiest low carb Keto recipes. This ideal mix of broccoli and shrimp will offer plenty of protein, minerals, and vitamins.
low carb Keto recipes

Broccoli is versatile and offers an array of health benefits.

20. Easy Eggless Salmon Patties

Salmon patties are perfect for a meal though they at times taste extra eggy. This meal has done away with eggs to remove the taste.

21. Instant Pot Pulled Pork

Cook pork slices in a pot together with some salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Serve with coriander and lemon slice.

Final Thoughts on Low Carb Keto Recipes

These keto recipes are not only tasty, but they are also low in starch. They are the best low carb Keto recipes.


How to Make a Self-Watering Bucket to Grow Peppers and Tomatoes

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Do you like peppers and tomatoes? Or any other kind of vegetable? Are you willing to put forth a bit of effort to have your very own mini farmers’ market? If so you’re in luck! Here we’re going to tell you how to create your very own self-watering bucket – or if you wish, buckets – that will enable you to grow both vegetables.

We’ll first cover some basics of the technology before providing you with step-by-step instructions for creating the bucket.

Let’s do this!

The sub-irrigated planter (SIP) system

The sub-irrigated planter (SIP) system is a means of watering flowers or plants from beneath the soil line (hence the “sub” in “sub-irrigated.”) As you will see, SIP water filters upwards using capillary action (essentially defying gravity!) and saturates the plant from the bottom up.

Among those who utilize SIPs are commercial landscapers, horticulturists, and gardeners. There are several benefits to a SIP. First, the watering process is automated, which reduces labor cost or effort. Second, no electric power is required; this reduces both overhead costs and environmental footprint. You can keep these buckets wherever a water source is present. Third, space is freed up by eliminating the need for expensive equipment like hoses, pumps, and timers.

In other words, the SIP system is a beautiful example of a self-sustaining, make-it-at-home project that can save money, feed the family, and give you something fun to build! For craftsmen and craftswomen who have yet to foray into the world of gardening, this project may just entice you enough to get your green thumb on!

tomatoes

First, a few things to keep in mind before getting the project underway:

#1 – The mix must be soilless.

The growing medium mentioned by the builder is Pro-Mix BX with Mycorrhizae, consisting of “Canadian Sphagnum peat moss, Perlite, Vermiculite, dolomitic limestone, wetting agent, and Mycorrhizae.” Peat products that include coconut coir or some other soilless mix may also work. Per the instructions, “the addition of perlite and dolomite lime is recommended.”

#2 – The grow bags must be porous.

Do you use recyclable grocery bags? These serve as the perfect “grow bag.” A grow bag holds the growing mix and, eventually, the tomato and potato plants. Manufactured from polypropylene, these bags are durable, large, and porous. Polypropylene grow bags last a long time and will not rot or fall apart. Critically, these bags will drain excess water and supply the roots with plenty of oxygen. Porous grow bags also cause the plant roots that grow through the fabric to dry out and die, thereby serving as a natural root pruner. According to the original builder, this “air pruning” mechanism enables the growth of “fine feeder roots,” which “leads to better nutrient and water absorption and promotes accelerated plant growth.”

#3 – Get a kitchen colander.

A plastic kitchen colander (strainer) is needed as it will support the bottom of the grow bag and create a shallow water reservoir. The dimensions of most strainers make them perfect for this use. The colander needn’t fit perfectly – it can be trimmed with a sturdy pair of gardening shears (more on this later.)

#4 – A 5-gallon bucket is best.

While you could use a smaller or larger bucket, doing so will make the forthcoming instructions harder to follow. The 5-gallon size allows plenty of room for both the grow bag and water reservoir. For extra points, look for the initials “HDPE” on the bottom of the bucket, indicating that the plastic is safe for growing vegetables.

Necessary Materials

Here’s a list of what you’ll need (see below for tools):

– A five-gallon plastic bucket

– ½” rubber grommet

– 10” plastic colander

– Recyclable fabric shopping bag

Tools

– Electric drill

– ¾” step drill bit

– Heavy shears to trim the colander (if necessary)

Construction Steps

  1. Drill 3/4” holes alongside the bucket at 6” by 6” intervals starting from the bottom. Remember to drill enough holes to allow for generous airflow which, along with the polypropylene bags, provide aeration to the root system. (There should be a total of 6-8 columns of holes; each column with 3-4 holes from top to bottom, depending on the bucket’s dimensions.)
  2. Besides the rows and columns of holes for aeration, there will be just one other hole – and that’s for the water reservoir mechanism. For this, you’ll want to affix the grommet and drill with the step drill bit somewhere along the very bottom. (Per the original instructions, there is no one designated point.)
  3. Insert a ½” hose fitting to the grommet. The seal should be of watertight quality.

(Note: Depending on how you connect your buckets, your fitting may differ. Half-inch fittings are standard and are available from suppliers of hydroponic accessories.)

  1. Place the plastic colander into the bucket; trim to fit if necessary.
  2. Place the recyclable bag inside of the bucket. Allow the handles to fall alongside the bucket or – if preferred – trim them off.
  3. Plug the fill hole and add water to the bottom of your bucket and begin adding your growing mix.
  4. Fill the bucket in layers, soaking each layer thoroughly to trigger the wicking property of your soilless mix. Again, do not use a dry mixture as it will not work.
  5. Add a layer of slow-release organic fertilizer to the bottom layer of the growth mix.
  6. Add an additional layer of compost near the top.
  7. Continue adding layers of grow mix and wetting them down thoroughly with water.
  8. Cover the bucket by affixing a plastic sheet. This is added to minimize water loss via evaporation.
  9. Cut slits in the plastic for planting.

grow

Final Thoughts

If you’d like to grow more tomatoes or peppers than is possible with a single bucket, you can do so. Just remember that each bucket must have enough space between them to allow sufficient air flow. Per the original builder, “Overcrowding impedes ventilation and promotes the spread of fungal disease and blocks light transmission within the plants.”

Additionally, you will need other supplies to create this closed-loop system including a water barrel reservoir, brass house faucet with fitting, hose fitting, and float valve regulator. Please refer to the original instructions for design schematics.

7 Things You Need To Keep In Mind Before Committing To A Long Distance Relationship

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Surviving a long distance relationship is difficult – ask any military spouse.

“After being separated for a period of time, I was in a very dark place. Miserable without him, it was easy for me to see that civilian life without him was FAR WORSE than any military life with him.” ~ Lauren Tamm, “The Real Reason Being a Military Wife is So Hard.”

Military spouses, probably more so than anyone, understand the difficulties and sacrifices that accompany lengthy separation from their partners.

However, there’s a reason the quote “Absence makes the heart grow fonder” exists. Because it’s absolutely true. “Give them a chance to miss you” is another good one.

There’s some scientific rationale behind such sentiments.

Per a study published in the Journal of Communication, people in long-distance relationships were more likely to share meaningful thoughts and feelings with their partner than those who in “normal” relationships.

Because couples that have been – or are going through – a long-distance relationship understand the preciousness of intimacy.

But such extraordinary benefits don’t come without risk.

In this article, we will discuss some things to remember before committing to a long-distance relationship.

7 Things To Remember in A Long Distance Relationship

Here are some tips to help make the most of a long distance relationship.

1. Ground your expectations

You should feel happy – or at least satisfied – with the person you are. Seeking qualities in someone else in hopes of acquiring fulfillment is mistaken.

Yes, you should feel happy with your partner, but it’s essential to remember –especially when you’re in a long-term relationship – that happiness is something derived internally.

2. Respect your partner’s social life

A little bit of jealousy can be a good thing. It can be a sweet way of showing your love. But just like alcohol and chocolate, jealousy in excess isn’t healthy.

There’s a significant difference, however, between jealousy and overprotection. We’re all adults here. So we should know better than disrespecting our other’s personal space.

3. Forget your ego

Forget about spoiling the moment with useless thoughts, especially when leading up to a period of separation.

A genuine effort should be taken to quash your ego. Attempting to do so displays your willingness to step up. Perhaps the most rewarding benefit of omitting your ego is that your words and actions are expressive and represent your real emotions.

4. Clean the slate

Whatever needs to be handled before your loved one’s departure, handle it.

Anything and everything.

Whether this is something intangible like bottled up emotions or thoughts, or some bill that’s been ignored, get on it. The last thing either of you wants is for some unspoken problem to place an undue burden on an already stressful situation.

5. Don’t make lame excuses

Lame excuses have led to the disintegration of many relationships.

It goes without saying that excuses don’t belong in this arena. An excuse, at its core, is a lie. An excuse is not an explanation – it is a deliberate act of deception.

Excuse-making has no place in your relationship, particularly in your partner’s absence. He or she doesn’t want to hear that you “forgot” to call because of this or that.

6. Trust each other

Cliché time(!): trust is the backbone of any relationship.

When we’re away from our partner, it’s all the more important to reassure ourselves of their trustworthiness. It goes without saying that any uncertainty in this regard necessitates a swift resolution.

Unfortunately, neither of you have the luxury of sitting down together and resolving things. Try to schedule regular video chats, if at all possible.

7. Compliment one another

We all love when our partner bestows upon us a genuine compliment! There’s nothing more heartening than telling your partner why you are in love with them – and what makes them special in your eyes.

long distance relationship

Final Thoughts on Long Distance Romance

Frequently singing your loved one’s praises is a beautiful thing. If you’re not in a compliment-giving mood (it happens!), here’s an easy solution:

Close your eyes, take a deep breath and remember their smile. Remember their warm embrace and passionate kiss.

Believe this former service member who’s been lonely on plenty of occasions: it works.

Then, of course, remember you’ll be back in their arms soon enough!

(C)Power of Positivity, LLC. All rights reserved

Struggling with Debt? 10 Actionable Tips to Manage Your Money

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Are you struggling with debt? If yes, then listing your debts, laddering them, saving, learning how to earn money online, and other strategies can make you debt-free. Here are ten things I did to pay off my debt in just one year:

1. Listing Debts by Interest Rate

When paying bills gets tough, you might be tempted to stash them away. However, the essential key to clearing your debt is identifying your position. Get all your bills and debts and make a list of the smallest to the largest ones. Then organize the list from the debts with the most interest to the ones with the least interest. Because the debt with the most interest is incurring more cost, you want to start clearing it first. Once you have your complete list of debts with their interest rates, you will be aware of what you must tackle to end struggling with debt.

2. Ladder Your Debts

After listing your debts from the one with the highest rate of interest to the one with the lowest rate of interest, start with the one with the highest rate of interest. Pay off the most you can and once you are through, pay a similar amount to the next debt with the most interest and so on. This will save you a lot of money, and after debts begin disappearing from the list, you will achieve more momentum.

3. Get an Emergency Saving Fund

Since emergencies can occur, you must prepare for them. However, saving up for an emergency should not delay your plan to clear your debts. Prior to clearing your debts, create a small emergency fund of $1000 or more for unexpected costs like medical bills, car repair, or more. This can be cash you can use when something random comes up. In case there is an emergency and you use the money, top it up before resuming debt payment. However, remember to keep paying your minimum debt payments as you top up your fund to ensure you don’t face costly penalties.

Credit cards typically have high rates of interest. Therefore, if you use your credit card to cater for an emergency, you will end up in more debt. The more the debt you get into, the more the months it will take you to clear it, and the more the debt you will pay due to higher interest rates. Additionally, you will ruin your credit score.

Keep in mind that an emergency fund includes money that needs to be easily and quickly accessible once there is an emergency. You need to keep it in a safe place like a savings account. The money won’t grow much, but accessing it will be easy and it will always be there if you need it. And, you won’t need to tap into your credit cards in an emergency and end up struggling with debt even more!

4. Make Minimum Monthly Payments

You must always ensure you meet minimum monthly payments of your debt to avoid incurring late fees and higher interest rates. The ideal way to be on par with monthly card payments is to use the closing date of the card as opposed to the due date of the payment. The closing date completes your monthly bill, and any payment after this date is part of the following month’s statement. The closing date of your card is on the statement.

The report of the card’s balance at the closing date is usually sent to the credit bureau. Hence, if you clear the balance prior to that date, your balance will be zero on your statement. This will assist you in avoiding late fees and higher interest rates in addition to improving your credit score.

5. Make a Budget and Eradicate Any Extraneous Things

Coming up with a budget is an excellent idea of staying on top of your expenses when you are struggling with debt. As much as budgeting might make you feel broke, it is a way of directing the destination of your money.

An ideal starting point is to acquire your previous month’s expenses from a credit card or bank statements. Use an Excel spreadsheet or a paper budget to organize your expenses. Also, use an app such as Mint to budget your costs. You will need to come up with categories for every expense to create a limit to that expense and indicate your income. Ensure that your income always exceeds your budget. In case it happens, consider cutting some items from the budget.

If it becomes hard to use a computer or paper to budget, you could go for the envelope method. This is a traditional money management method that some people still use to control their spending. In this method, you make payments in cash for every expense you can, using envelopes to hold the money and maintain the budget.

6. Downsizing Temporarily

Paying off debt does not happen forever. It is kind of delayed gratification that will enable you to enjoy a life free of debt. Look at the expenses of your previous month and look for things that are not essentials. It could be eating out, entertainment, monthly subscription services, and so on. Do away with these expenses temporarily and then use the savings to clear out more debt.

7. Increase Your Income

After organizing your debts and creating a budget, the next step is to increase your income. You can do this by looking for a higher paying job. You can also apply for more senior positions at our current company. Additionally, you can acquire a second job so that you can make more money. You can also look into how to earn money online.
Getting a promotion or another job might take a while or prove difficult. But do you know how to earn money online by utilizing a skill you have? If you are an application programmer or a web designer, there are many clients online looking for someone with your particular set of skills. Registering on sites like Fiver and creating an appealing profile can aid you in landing clients who are willing to pay for your talent and you can earn money online.

You don’t need to be a web designer or an app developer to earn money online. There are jobs for hundreds of skills. 20% of the US population is working in the freelance economy with people working remotely. You can be a graphic designer, project manager, writer, or personal assistant, and there are many more ways of how to earn money online. If you don’t have any skills, you can learn the skill of your interest online in under two weeks and earn money online.

8. Transferring Balances

If you are incurring high-interest rates, transfer your balances to save and clear your debt. Make sure your minimum payments are met, and your balance is cleared prior to the expiry of the introductory interest rate. Otherwise, you will result in late fees and higher interest rates. And, you will continue struggling with debt

In case you have a challenge meeting your balances as well as the minimum payments, contact the Consumer Credit Counselling Service. They offer credit counseling for free together with debt management service at the cost of 3 to 5 percent per month without exceeding $50, depending on the state.

9. Rewarding Oneself for Small Victories

The debt payment process needs not to be a chore, and you can make it fun while you do it. Make a game out of it and offer yourself a reward whenever you hit a milestone towards ending your struggle with debt.

Each time you clear a debt, celebrate with something you like to do. These can include going to the movies, going out for coffee, buying some ice-cream, or anything that can be managed within your budget. This will motivate you to keep paying off your debt.

10. Selling Unnecessary Items to Earn Money Online

Look around your home searching for anything that is using unnecessary space because you don’t need it. It could be some massive furniture eating up your space that you can sell off to clear your debt with the money and reduce your financial obligations. You could hold a garage sale or earn money online by selling things on Facebook, eBay, Craigslist, and other sites.

eBay

eBay is the top site for selling things to earn money online. This popular online marketplace has been the best in enabling the sale of used items since the 1990s. You start by creating an account, listing your things to be sold, and uploading pictures of the items. The site offers you access to more than 160 million people. However, eBay will cost you $0.3 to list an item and 10 percent of the sale of each item.

Bonanza

Bonanza is another item you can list your used merchandise for sale. Its structure resembles eBay but with a lower list cost. You will incur a charge of 3.5 percent of the value of items below $500. If over $500, it will cost you $17.5 plus 1.5% of the sale. You can also link your items on this site to Google shopping.

Etsy

You can also earn money online by selling items through Etsy. This site specializes in the sale of handcraft merchandise and used things that are twenty years old or more. These goods are referred to as vintage, and if you have such items, you can sell them off on this site for quick money. You incur a cost of $0.2 to list and 3.5% of the sale as well as $0.25 and 3% for processing of the payment. The site has 22.6 million shoppers that can be potential clients for your vintage or handmade items. If you were wondering about how to earn money online, this is it.

struggling with debt

Follow These Tips and Stop Struggling with Debt

Paying off your debts can be a stressful process, but if you organize your debts, budget, and earn money online, you will be able to be free of debt in no time. Knowing how to earn money online can be instrumental since you will get quick cash that can clear your debt impromptu. Earn money online and remain debt-free.

15 Heartwarming Photos that Show What Friendship Really Looks Like

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“Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another, ‘What! You too? I thought I was the only one.” – C.S. Lewis

Good friends are hard to find, but once you come across them, your life is forever changed. Sometimes, the best and deepest relationships happen unexpectedly, when we’re just going about our daily lives. On the other hand, there are times we might meet someone awesome in a Facebook group or make a beautiful connection with someone on our weekly grocery trip. And, perhaps we’ve managed to keep the same friend group throughout the years and share many precious memories with them.

No matter what, friendship is important for our well-being. According to one analysis that studied data on 3.4 million people across 70 studies, researchers found that not having social connections had the same health risks as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day. Loneliness is deadly. This means that having even one close friend can make a huge difference in a person’s life.

So, now that you know the importance of friendships, we’ll show you some photos of friends that are sure to make you thankful for your own. Just a warning – these photos will melt your heart!

Here are 15 photos of friendship that will warm your heart:

1. This boy has carried his disabled friend to school for three years. What a beautiful friendship!

This Is Real Friendship

2. Friendship sometimes means watching a game with your buddy through the computer. Who says you can’t hang out even if you’re in different places?

True friendship
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3. You can’t always bring your friends with you. And so, sometimes a cardboard copy will have to do.

Cardboard Kevin’s Birthday weekend Begins

4. These guys look like the best of buddies!

This is a true picture of friendship
by inaww

5. Who knew a raccoon and a dog could become such good friends? Aren’t they adorable?!

We’ve been raising a baby raccoon and its become our dogs best friend.
by inaww

6. Because it wouldn’t be friendship without helping your girl get an awesome picture of her eating pizza.

7. Elephants and dogs are some of the sweetest creatures on the planet. And, isn’t seeing them together just heartwarming?

Unusual Animal Friendship Elephant And Dog
byu/waterblue95 ingifs

8. Some of the most unusual things bring people together. In this case, it was rice.

Rice now brings people together
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9. Best friends till the end! Plus, it looks like the guy on the right really loves that cap!

The one group you always stick with
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10. A lion, tiger, and bear…oh my, the cuteness!

Inseparable brotherhood bear, a lion and a tiger.

friendship

11. If this isn’t the most adorable photo of friendship we’ve ever seen!

True Homies

12. Looks like this bearded dragon has a sweet tooth!

13. Friendship between animals has a way of really pulling at your heartstrings.

TIL Cheetahs are very anxious and are often given support doggo’s to help relax them.. 

14. Cats and dogs sometimes hate each other. But, it looks like these two really get along!

The cat is the hat

15. We’ll just leave you with this too-cute-for-words photo. Awww!

My cat met a baby deer today.
byu/uncleskeleton inaww

Do you have any cute photos of you and your best friends? If so, please feel free to share them with us in the comments! Let’s keep the friendship going and keep the good vibes flowing!

(C)Power of Positivity, LLC. All rights reserved

12 People Explain How They Beat Depression (Without Prescriptions)

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Depression afflicts millions of people worldwide. It can occur for many different reasons: nutritional deficiencies, genetics, environment, lack of adequate hydration or exercise, and other factors. Of course, for some people, medication is necessary to beat depression and we are not saying to get off your medicines or avoid going to a doctor if you really need help.

However, emerging evidence shows that lifestyle changes can greatly improve symptoms of depression. 

12 People Explain How they Beat Depression (Without Prescriptions)

Learn how these brave individuals beat the blues.

1. Keep fighting and turn to a higher power for help with your depression.

 

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2. Only look within yourself for answers to overcome depression.

 

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3. Don’t forget the importance of supplements and proper nutrition to balance your moods.

 

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4. Write down what you’re feeling and question your thoughts.

 

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“I have taught myself how to figure out if what I’m feeling is real or another trick my brain is making me feel. It’s not easy dealing with something you don’t quite understand. But we can choose not to let it control us. Sometimes it helps to write things down.”

5. Join together in your community and spread awareness about mental health.

 

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6. Let go of the past, because it cannot be changed. Instead, focus on making the future better.

 

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7. Always be yourself, not the person the world expects you to be.

 

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8. Take it one day at a time and don’t let the bad days turn into bad weeks or months.

 

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9. Do things before you’re ready. If you don’t feel motivated, dig deep to find your purpose and take small steps each day.

 

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beat depression

10. Look after your mental and physical health. You can’t pour from an empty cup.

 

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11. Be mindful of water intake, blood sugar levels, time with friends, sleep, and exercise.

 

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12. Do some yoga!

 

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(C)Power of Positivity, LLC. All rights reserved

9 People Who Healed Their Anxiety With Nature

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We don’t get near enough nature time in the civilized world we live in. Sure, modern society offers plenty of benefits, such as running water and electricity, but removing ourselves from our natural environment has brought on some devastating effects as well. For example, mental illnesses are increasing rapidly, our soil is being depleted of vital nutrients, and we aren’t getting enough sunshine. It’s no wonder why so many people are craving more time in the great outdoors! (See vanlife on Instagram)

Plus, being in nature has proven health benefits. One study found that “earthing” or getting the body back in touch with nature, can improve sleep. Another study found that walking barefoot in nature can induce a positive immune response by lowering white blood cell count and increasing red blood cells. Finally, getting to the point of the article, spending time outside can help improve mental health and reduce stress. 

With that said, we want to show you a few people who healed their anxiety by spending time in the great outdoors.

10 People Who Healed Their Anxiety with Nature

1. ” The oxygen is so pure, it has instant relaxing effects and can give a much-needed break from life stress and depression.”

 

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2. This psychologist knows the importance of nature for healing anxiety.

 

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3. We think this guy has it down pretty well! There’s nothing like meditating in a beautiful spot in nature.

 

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4. As an empath, Carolyn knows that nature is very important for her well-being.

 

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“If you feel your spirit or your head running high above in a frenzy, find a tree, place a hand on it and bring yourself back to earth.”

5. There’s nothing like getting back to nature to heal your anxiety.

 

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“Going out in nature feels like a sanctuary for the soul. Bare feet is even better but even surrounded by wild flowers & trees is enough to hear the little voice of Gaia & my deeper inner self.”

anxiety

6. Yosemite National Park is a beautiful place to heal anxiety with nature!

 

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7. Nature and yoga is the best medicine.

 

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8. When was the last time you took a walk in nature?

 

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“Mother Nature is there for us to heal, to help us come home to our bodies, to connect deeply with Her and with our heart.”

9. “Our bodies are built to live among nature. And that’s where our old friends the trees can help.”

 

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Do you find healing for anxiety with nature? Let us know in the comments!

Scientists Explain What Happens To Your Hormones When You Eat These 4 Seeds

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From painful periods to PCOS, hormone imbalances are more prevalent than ever. This is due to a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, physical stress, emotional trauma, and environmental toxins. We live in a fast-paced world that encourages sleep deprivation, mindless and unhealthy eating, and utilization of chemical-laden personal care products.

BIRTH CONTROL IS NOT THE ANSWER

Women everywhere are on a quest for balance to either restore their period or make that time of the month less miserable. Unfortunately, this often results in weary and vulnerable patients accepting a birth control prescription from their doctor with no questions asked. One of the most dangerous myths in America is that exogenous hormones help regulate cycles. As it turns out, the exact opposite is true. Hormonal birth control masks the root cause of dysbiosis, not to mention wreaks havoc on a woman’s body long after she stops taking it.

So if birth control isn’t the solution, what is? Unsurprisingly, nature has the answer: seeds!

Flax, pumpkin, sesame, and sunflower seeds all have nutritive properties that help support optimal hormone function in women. Seed cycling is an ancient practice that involves rotating between consumption of the different types throughout the menstrual cycle. Research has shown remarkable effects on reduction of PMS symptoms and regulation of cycles.

WHAT IS SEED CYCLING?

Seed cycling is a practice in which women rotate consumption of four different seeds throughout their menstrual cycle. Supporters of this protocol claim it helps naturally balance progesterone and estrogen: the two main female reproductive hormones. (1.)

In a healthy cycle, estrogen is highest during the first half; progesterone during phase two. When this intricate hormonal dance becomes imbalanced, women may experience menstrual irregularities. This is because estrogen and progesterone have very different functions in the body and certain levels must be maintained for optimal function. They fluctuate over the course of a woman’s cycle depending on what stage she is in.

STAGES OF THE MENSTRUAL CYCLE

One of the most beautiful things about womanhood is the fact that we are cyclical creatures. Much like the moon, a woman’s cycle lasts roughly 28 days from start to finish. This explains in part why seed cycling is so effective – our nutritive needs fluctuate depending on what phase our bodies are currently in. Menstrual cycles have four phases, each one flowing beautifully into the next if hormonal balance is in place. Here is a detailed explanation of each phase discussing what to expect, approximately how long it lasts, and what it entails.

  • Day one of the menstrual cycle is the first day of heavy bleeding (excluding any preceding spotting.) A healthy cycle lasts anywhere from three to seven days, producing no more than 80 milliliters of fluid in total.

  • Follicular phase.

    • Once menstruation has ceased, the follicular phase starts. During this time period, a woman’s body has begun to gear up for ovulation. This results in elevation of estrogen and LH (or luteinizing hormone) levels. Most women feel their best during this phase and have plenty of energy for physical activity. The follicular phase typically lasts between seven and 21 days. (2.)

  • Ovulation.

    • When estrogen and LH hit their peak, the ovaries release an egg (otherwise known as ovulation.) This egg makes its way down the fallopian tubes, allowing for fertilization to occur if it makes contact with sperm, and into the uterus. Fertility is at its highest during this phase.
    • Signs that you are ovulating include vaginal discharge that resembles egg whites and an increase in body temperature. Also, the cervix will be positioned higher than it usually is. These signs are important to look out for if you are getting off birth control or trying to get your period back. Recognizing ovulation is crucial to understanding your cycle.

  • Luteal phase.

    • Once ovulation is over, the luteal phase begins. During this time, LH and estrogen levels drop and progesterone rises as the body prepares for implantation (a precursor to pregnancy.) This increase in progesterone is often the culprit behind many PMS symptoms, such as fatigue, cravings, breakouts, and oily skin. Many women also experience constipation, anticipation of which can be alleviated with dietary modifications. The luteal phase should last right around 14 days.

Menstruation begins after the luteal phase, and the entire cycle repeats itself all over again every month until menopause. A healthy cycle lasts anywhere from 21 to 35 days in total.

WHY NOT BIRTH CONTROL FOR HORMONE BALANCE?

When women come to their doctors complaining about symptoms associated with menstruation, they are immediately given a prescription for the pill. While it may induce a monthly bleed and reduce unwanted symptoms, it doesn’t address the underlying issue.

Root causes of missing, irregular, or painful periods include:

  • Being overly stressed out can affect the hypothalamus, which is responsible for regulating the female reproductive system
  • Low body weight. Weighing less than 10% of what is considered normal for your height is a physical stressor on the body. This can trigger a hormonal cascade that prevents ovulation from occurring. Women who participate in intense exercise, regardless of their weight, can also experience amenorrhea (loss of the menstrual cycle.)
  • Much like being underweight, obesity also stresses the body out. Achieving a BMI in the normal range, which is under 25%, can restore reproductive health.
  • PCOS. Polycystic ovary syndrome is a complex metabolic disorder that causes the body to overproduce androgens, more commonly known as male hormones. Cysts form on the ovaries as a result, which can impair or stop ovulation altogether. Insulin resistance, typically associated with diabetes, is also implicated in PCOS. Treating this is key to getting the hormonal system back in sync. (3.)
  • Chronic illnesses such as diabetes and celiac. As previously stated, disruptions in blood sugar regulation can affect the menstrual cycle. Celiac disease, or the state of being allergic to gluten, causes inflammation in the small intestine. This can impair nutrient absorption and cause late or missing cycles.
  • Perimenopause. Menopause typically occurs between ages 45 and 55. The period just before menstruation stops is known as perimenopause, which means a woman’s egg supply is approaching zero. Missed periods are common (and normal) during this time.
  • Thyroid issues. The thyroid is the body’s master regulatory gland, so hormone levels can be affected when it’s over or underactive. Luckily, thyroid dysfunction can be easily regulated with medication.

HOW TO SEED CYCLE

Days 1-14:

  • 1-2 tbsp of raw, organic, freshly-ground flax seeds daily
  • 1-2 tbsp of raw, organic, freshly-ground pumpkin seeds daily

Both flax and pumpkin seeds contain high concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids. These essential nutrients are known to increase uterine blood flow and promote healthy cell membranes. Additionally, flax seeds have polyphenols called lignans, which bind to excess estrogen which is unopposed by progesterone during the follicular phase. Pumpkin seeds, on the other hand, are rich in zinc. This trace mineral supports healthy progesterone production when the second phase of your cycle rolls around. (3.)

Days 15-28

  • 1-2 tbsp of raw, organic, freshly-ground sesame seeds daily (or tahini)
  • 1-2 tbsp of raw, organic, freshly-ground sunflower seeds daily (or sunflower seed butter)

Sesame seeds also contain lignans, which block excess estrogen during a time when progesterone is supposed to be higher. Sunflower seeds contain selenium, a trace mineral that aids in the detox of excess hormones by the liver. This is an essential step because an overloaded liver can cause estrogen or progesterone to recirculate in the body.

IS SEED CYCLING EFFECTIVE?

While a direct link between the practice of seed cycling and hormone balance has yet to be established, it is still very much rooted in science. Plenty of evidence highlights the aforementioned nutritive aspects of the four seeds that help women maintain optimal estrogen and progesterone levels.

Additionally, studies have shown that flax seeds help length the luteal phase. This can improve fertility and reduce common premenstrual symptoms such as breast tenderness and abdominal pain.

All four seeds contain Vitamin E and both Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids. These are essential for hormone production and optimal function of follicles. Omega-3s, in particular, have been shown to have a direct impact on progesterone secretion.

hormones

FINAL THOUGHTS ON WHAT HAPPENS TO YOUR HORMONES WHEN YOU EAT THESE 4 SEEDS

Many women struggle with imbalanced hormones, whether from stress, underlying disease, or one of many other factors. Doctors will often prescribe birth control as a solution; however, it only manages symptoms at best. Without addressing the root cause, restoring homeostasis in the body is impossible.

Working with a functional practitioner to determine your specific underlying condition is the gold standard. However, there are middle-ground solutions if that isn’t feasible. Seed cycling, or rotating consumption of four different seeds throughout your cycle, is one of them. Flax, pumpkin, sesame, and sunflower seeds all have unique nutritive properties that penetrate deep below the surface and help balance a woman’s hormones.

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