Gifts are among the best ways of expressing your love and good wishes to friends and family. But, finding the perfect gift can often be a daunting task. There’s an easy solution, though: Get them a personalised gift.

First of all, custom-made gifts are anything but random. They reflect the care you took in gift selection. They come in a wide variety so there’s something for everyone.

If you’re still wondering whether a personalised gift is a good idea, here are some reasons why you should go for it.

  1. Personalised Gifts are Unique

Imagine spending hours choosing the perfect gift for your friend, only to learn that they already own something similar. Getting a personalised item with their name or initials printed on it is a one of a kind gift that won’t lead to such disappointments.

  1. They Reflect Your Thoughtfulness

The size, type, or price of a gift doesn’t matter; the thought behind it does. When you present someone with a personalised gift, it shows that you put a lot of thought into getting the person something they would love. Such gifts are likely to be seen as distinctive because you chose them with the recipient in mind.

  1. They are Suitable For All Occasions

Whether it’s a birthday party, a wedding, or an anniversary celebration, personalised gifts are suitable for all types of events. That’s because there isn’t any limit to the things you can get personalised for you. You can get creative with almost anything you want, from small items like pens and key chains to diaries, photo frames, cushions, and coffee mugs. And the best part, you can also include a meaningful message for the recipient as a special touch.

  1. They Will Be Cherished Forever

Things like flowers, chocolates, or accessories may work well as gift items, but they aren’t likely to have a lasting impression. But it’s different when it comes to a personalised gift specially tailored for someone you love. The fact that you went through the hassle of choosing the perfect photograph or message to imprint on the gift is sure to touch their hearts, and they will treasure the present forever.

  1. They are Perfect for Everyone

Personalised gifts are the best choice, no matter who the recipient is. Be it a friend, a cousin, grandparents or your teacher, personalised gifts are for everyone. After all, who wouldn’t be thrilled to get a gift that features their name or photo on it?

So there you have it — some of the most compelling reasons why you should opt for personalisation in gift giving. It is a wonderful gesture that shows them the deep affection and respect that you have for them. And the best part is that buying the best personalised gifts Australia has to offer isn’t too difficult. There are many reputable online stores that stock an incredible variety of gifts that you can customise for your loved ones and have them delivered anywhere across the country.

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Cockroaches – just thinking about these insects scuttling through your home is enough to make anyone’s skin crawl.

Unfortunately, roaches are one of the most common pests, and they are notoriously difficult to get rid of when you have an infestation. So, if you see one in your home, you need to act fast.

Read on to discover how to get rid of roaches and what you can do to prevent them from taking up residence in the first place.

About Cockroaches

Cockroaches thrive in warm and humid environments, and they seek shelter, water, and food at night.

There are two main types of common cockroaches in the U.S., the American cockroach, and the German cockroach. While both types of cockroaches are active year-round, American cockroaches are usually larger and darker in color.

Getting Rid of Cockroaches Yourself

When you spot cockroaches in your home, you have a few options to get rid of them. The first step is eliminating the food and water attracting them.

Once you’ve removed their food source, you should focus on exterminating the existing roaches and preventing any more from coming in.

Clean the House and Remove Their Food Supply

Because cockroaches are attracted to food and clutter, cleaning and decluttering your home is the best way to keep their populations at bay. Make sure your home isn’t a roach magnet by cleaning up any spills and food crumbs as soon as they happen, and do your dishes immediately and put them away.

Sweep, mop, and vacuum your house often, clean all your cabinets thoroughly (including under the sink), scrub all your appliances, and wash all your garbage cans. Don’t let trash accumulate, and invest in tight-fitting lids.

Because roaches can squeeze into cardboard boxes, keep all your food (cereal, sugar, and grains) in airtight containers. Store your pet food in a sealed container, and don’t neglect to empty and clean your pet’s bowls frequently.

Glue Traps

In areas where you have high cockroach activity, lay out glue traps so you can monitor the severity of the infestation and whether your cleaning efforts are working. The best places for glue traps are in the space between appliances and the floor, behind toilets, and under sinks.

The more roaches you find on the glue strips, the more severe the infestation.

Eliminate Clutter and Block Entry Points

Throw out all the clutter serving as the roaches’ shelter – cardboard boxes, stacks of paper, and accumulated junk.

Then, inspect your home for any possible entry points. Seal up any cracks or gaps in walls, window frames, and doors. While you’re at it, make sure you eliminate any standing water and don’t have any leaky plumbing.

Set Bait Traps

Bait traps for cockroaches are designed to attract roaches and trap them. Chemical cockroach bait stations contain an insecticide that resembles food. Roaches will take the bait, eat it, and return to their nests – taking the deadly insecticide with them.

Boric Acid

A popular home remedy for cockroaches is boric acid. Mix equal amounts of the boric acid with confectioner’s sugar and flour, then knead the mixture into dough. Place marble-sized balls of the mixture in strategic places around your home. The sugar and flour attract the cockroaches, and the boric acid kills them.

Professional Pest Control

If you have a severe infestation or are worried about how harmful commercial pesticides are for your family and pets, call a professional exterminator to deal with the problem for you.

A pest control specialist will conduct a thorough inspection, come up with an effective plan, and provide a long-term and ongoing solution.

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Great! After a lot of contemplation, you have finally decided to learn to ride and booked your motorbike training! The next step includes collecting protective gear. It brings one question – what essential gear should you buy to protect yourself from injuries, accidents, and other road mishaps? 

Road accidents are common, and they do not come with a warning. It is better to prepare and protect yourself with the essential protective gear and ensure you are safe while riding your bike on busy or rough terrains. 

Being kitted out properly with the right protective gear offers you safety from elements, noise, and anything that might strike your way. Wearing essential motorbike gear is not only essential for adults but kids too. If you are introducing your little one to the world of motorbikes, ensure to buy good-quality kids’ motorbike gear for them and then teach them to ride. 

In either case, deciding what to wear while setting out on the road may be crucial. Here is the essential protective gear you must include in your kit. 

Motorbike Helmet 

A motorbike helmet is the essential protective accessory to buy. Many countries have introduced strict laws regarding the helmet, and if you are not found wearing it, you may have to pay a hefty fine. 

Helmets protect your head and brain from injury. While buying this accessory, ensure to pick a product that conforms to the suitable regulatory standard. Buy from a reputable brand, check the material and overall construction of the helmet, and wear it even if you are covering a shorter distance. 

Motorbike Jacket 

Just like protection for your head, you need protection for your body too. As a new rider, there are many choices for protective clothing. You can base your decision around the style and look you want while shopping for a jacket. 

Buy a jacket fitted with armour. It includes shoulder and elbow protectors to safeguard your body parts from injuries. Some jackets also offer a back protector, and buying them will always work in your favour. Check the CE ratings for clothing to ensure they are made in good quality. 

Motorbike Gloves 

Gloves constitute an essential piece of the motorcycle gear kit. Thus, do not turn a blind eye to them while shopping for the gear. Choose the ones that fit you snugly so that changing clutches don’t feel uncomfortable. 

Buying a pair of waterproof gloves is a great idea, especially if you engage in off-road biking on various terrains. Check for knuckle and scaphoid protection while shopping for them. 

Motorbike Boots 

Another must-have protection gear you should not give a second thought to buying is motorbike boots. Many new riders overlook the importance of boots, which increases their chances of catching long-term injuries in their feet and ankles. We urge you not to commit this mistake. 

Buy a pair of boots that not only covers your feet but ankles too. Choose dedicated motorcycle boots that offer much more protection in the event of a crash. When you buy boots, some of the features to look for are armour for the inside and outside of the ankle, reinforced toe, and heel. Buy waterproof boots that have a breathable membrane in their construction. 

Goggles 

While riding in a windy or smoky environment, it is essential to protect your eyes. It is when you will realize the importance of goggles. Basic sunglasses are not designed to withstand high impact. They do not fit snugly against your face either. 

Ensure you buy goggles dedicated to motorbiking to enjoy extreme protection to your eyes. 

Takeaway 

The aforementioned protective gear ensures that you do not shift your focus on your safety and enjoy riding the bike while they take care of protecting you against the odds of the roads. Shop for them now!  

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Advertisement feature in association with Brew Company

I was talking to my brother-in-law this week about the importance of joy, and was telling him about how much joy I can take from the very smallest of things. ‘Honestly,’ I said, ‘I can go to bed excited about having a nice cup of coffee the next morning.’

And it’s true. The ritual of either spending time making myself a cup of good coffee or treating myself to one somewhere out and about is a seemingly small thing that can have a huge impact. Factor in meeting up with a friend or family member to share your coffee with and it takes on even more significance. Suddenly that simple cup of coffee has become an experience, an opportunity to exchange news, to share worries and to feel closer to someone. I’ve definitely felt that over the last couple of years during lockdowns, when so many of my meetups with friends have been spent walking through parks, our hands wrapped around takeaway cups of coffee.

When you think about it, a cup of coffee is pretty special isn’t it? Buying someone a cup of coffee MEANS something.

Which is why I think this Mother’s Day could be the time to switch it up a bit. Forget flowers and chocolates and buy the special mum in your life coffee from The Brew Company instead.

(Don’t worry if your mum isn’t a coffee drinker, they do tea too.)

Coffee from The Brew Company

The idea behind The Brew Company’s Coffeebrewer range is simple – premium quality ground coffee that you brew in the bag, without the need for any kind of fancy coffee machine. The patented brewing system ensures a state-of-the-art coffee infusion that gives a result that’s a bit of a crossover between pour-over coffee and a French press. Basically you get to be your own barista, wherever you are – at work, travelling, or how about camping? I think they’d be brilliant for that. View Post

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A trip to this country is always surprising for everyone. Here you can see the true beauty of the country and become a witness to the human genius who made the ice in the heart of the desert.

Rented cars – make your travel pleasant

Many of our readers are avid fans of travel and new emotions. So when choosing a tour to the UAE as your holiday destination, it’s worth considering the climate. As the sun can give you sunstroke very quickly. So we draw your attention to the service from the best rental companies in Dubai. Traveling in cars of such companies will make your holiday more pleasant and comfortable. In the rental company, managers will help you quickly draw up the paperwork and transfer the car to your use. High-quality services go well with low prices. The rental company will help you choose a car of your choice. And if you have saved enough for the years of the pandemic, you should consider such an option as a vip rent a car. And this type of car is suitable for those who travel in a small company.

Taste the national dishes

Think outside the box when it comes to food. There are many national restaurants in Dubai. Different cuisines are widely represented. If you’re a foodie and want to try something different from fast food and home-cooked meals, you should look out for local restaurants. And even if you have breakfast and lunch or lunch and dinner at the hotel, still find a time when you can forgo the hotel buffet and visit some great gastronomic places in the form of a good restaurant.

Moreover, if you are at the Burj Khalifa, which is the tallest building in the world and a great place in Dubai, be sure to visit the restaurant, which overlooks the amazing musical fountains. The restaurant is located on the top floor of Dubai Mall itself. There you can have a delicious meal, enjoy a great view of the singing fountains, and have a truly unforgettable experience at the Burj Khalifa.

Shopping is always funny

  

You can also sample the cuisine and buy various souvenirs in the shopping centers. It is considered better to buy souvenirs in the form of food from supermarkets. Because they will be of higher quality and fresh there. The malls keep track of the dates and fruit such as dates, for example, will always be a great gift for your colleagues, business associates, and relatives.

Alternatively, if you want to buy quality non-food items in Dubai, rather than copies and knock-offs, it is also best done in the supermarkets. That’s where you can buy various magnets, postcards, and other souvenirs. They’re all pretty cheap and you can pay for everything with dirhams and debit cards.

Active holiday – make your travel unforgettable

Dubai’s outdoor industry is brimming with offers of aerial adventures. You can choose your preferred option for the sky, the length of the flight, the company of ‘birds’ flying with you, and the equipment. By taking a great rented car, you can explore the country’s natural attractions on your own. You can book your dive or parachute jump with a tour company. In other words, there are a huge number of options. All you have to do is choose.

Sunshine and heat

The last tip is a simple but important reminder to all tourists. The climate is represented by hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach 50 ºC during the day and night frosts are not uncommon, despite daytime temperatures of around + 20ºC. It is therefore important to wear a hat if you prefer active holidays. Moreover, always bring water with you. As dehydration in such places is a top 2 problem for all tourists. However, it is always possible to look on the bright side and visit Dubai in winter. Have a good holiday and new emotions!

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The father is the first hero in everyone’s story. Selfless efforts and unconditional affection from him play a major part in raising a family. Father’s Day is celebrated on the third Sunday in June to appreciate all of these accomplishments.

Want to show your father how much you respect him but aren’t sure how to go about it? Alright! You’ve arrived at the ideal location! Greeting your dad on Father’s Day isn’t enough to show him how much you care about him throughout the year. The nicest Father’s Day presents, together with a heartfelt inscription, may be presented this way. This article will provide you some fresh unique ideas for Father’s Day gifts.

The Ideal Combination for a Gift

This Father’s Day, you may give your dad a wonderful gift combination. For Father’s Day, there are a variety of gift combos available on different internet stores. With a cake and some flowers, you may give your dad a coffee cup as a present. You could also purchase him a customized T-shirt with a printed phrase on it as a present. All of these thoughtful presents will mean a lot to him.

Accessories are a great way to show him how much you care.

It is common for fathers to have a fondness for certain items from their adolescent years. You may also be aware of his preferred brands or products. If at all feasible, begin collecting these items from top to bottom, or else buy the specific item and accompany it with a heartfelt love message. When he wears this particular piece, it will serve as a constant reminder of how much you adore him.

Gift Baskets for Men That He’ll Always Remember!

Let’s dispel the myths! Pampering isn’t only for ladies; it’s also for males who put in long hours to care for their loved ones. As a matter of personal taste, you may choose not to include self-care goods in the Father’s Day gift hampers. If you are skilled in the art of massage, you could lend a hand, or you could create a spa-like atmosphere in your own house with a hamper and candles.

Thrill him With Your Selfless Deed

Children learn excellent manners and self-discipline from their fathers first and foremost! Here’s a way to show that you’re a decent person. Yes! The finest thing we can do in our lifetime is to provide a helping hand to someone who is having a difficult time coping with life. As a result, you may contribute money, food, or other necessities to those in need. This would be the nicest Father’s Day present ever given by a son to his father.

Take Him On A Magnificent Trip.

When you were younger, your father was the first person to transport you to school, college, or a lengthy vacation on his motorcycle. If you’re competent at driving, why can’t you take him on a road trip? Rent a car or take a day trip with your family and explore your city on your own. If you don’t mind spending money, you might even buy a long-distance train or plane ticket for your father.

Make Old Memories Come Alive For Him

When individuals become older, they want to relive their past experiences or go back in time! Huh! On Father’s Day, let’s do all we can to get the perfect present for dad and fulfill all of his wishes. For example, learn about your father’s favorite music, movies, or anything else that he enjoyed and make it happen today with what you have. Yes, that’s correct! You need to be prepared to wipe away his tears of joy.

I hope these suggestions have given you some inspiration for a thoughtful Father’s Day present that he will treasure. Find out what your father enjoys doing the most and devise a strategy that will demonstrate your affection for him. Congratulations on your decision to celebrate Father’s Day with a bang!

 

 

 

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Quicker and Easier- Plasterboard Glue Options

If you need to install a partition in your kid’s bedroom or are tackling a new ceiling project in the kitchen you’re probably thinking about covering it with that modern wonder: plasterboard. Plasterboard or “drywall” is a quality, affordable option for basic DIY projects in and around the home. It simply makes hiding the bare bones of a new wall or ceiling much, much easier and is an ideal alternative to expensive and messy lath and plaster walls and when you add an adhesive there are no nails and screws to contend with.

Using the right glue when putting up your wall or ceiling boards is essential. Your plasterboard needs to be strong -especially when you have younger kids and it needs to stay where you put it! Using strong adhesive streamlines the process and makes it faster. Plasterboard is ready to paint in a few days and just one sheet of plasterboard can cover big swathes of ceiling or wall in one go. All you need to put up your plasterboard is a sealing gun and some strong adhesive.

Still not convinced? Check out why plasterboard can sometimes work better than wet plastering in this informative article.

The best plasterboard glues include:

  • No More Nails
  • One For All Supergrab

No More Nails

No More Nails is ideal for heavy duty projects like hanging plasterboard. Using No More Nails means you can dispense with drills, nails and screws. It’s a water-based copolymer that is ideal for indoor use and offers a finish which looks professional and strong. It can be used on plastic, wood, metal ceramics and stone and is ideal for use on plasterboard.

One-For-All Supergrab

One For All Supergrab combines flexible polymer chains to create a very strong bond and is shock-resistant and heat-resistant. It can be used both indoors and outdoors on wood, brick, concrete, ceramic stone and glass and works very well on plasterboard. Here are some more ideas for working with adhesive for plasterboard.

Getting the job done!

How to fix plasterboard to a wall

Measuring

Start by measuring the area you want to cover with plasterboard. Next mark out the correct size for cutting on the plasterboard. Use whole sheets, where possible, to avoid needing to join smaller pieces and too much wastage.

Cutting

Make sure that your panels are about 15mm shorter than the height of your wall to allow for floor expansion behind the skirting. Cut out the size you need.

Preparation

Cut the nozzle tip of the adhesive at a 45-degree angle. The nozzle should have a diameter of about 10mm. Next place the glue cartridge into a caulk gun.

If you are applying the plasterboard to stud wall – squeeze the caulk gun to apply adhesive to the horizontal and vertical studs that you want the panel of plasterboard to cover. Attach the panel to the wall, flush against the ceiling and use a15mm offcut at the base of the panel to wedge it in place while the glue dries.

If applying the plasterboard to concrete or brick, apply the adhesive to the back of the panel, using wavy, vertical lines. Start and finish around 30mm from the top, bottom and sides. Leave a space of 100mm between lines of glue. Put the panel against this section of the wall and raise it flush against the ceiling, again using an offcut at the base of the panel to wedge it in place while it dries.

Need more help? watch this video of exactly how to hang plasterboard using adhesives. Once you have your wall or ceiling finished here are some ideas to help you to transform your bedroom into a beautiful space.

Here are some ideas for adding colourful and bright wallpaper to your kid’s bedrooms.

Get started today!

Plasterboard is a great option to cover a wall or ceiling to create a clean professional finish. Using adhesives to hang plasterboard is easier than using nails and screws or wet plastering a wall and makes the process faster and much less fuss and mess. Follow the basic steps we’ve provided and you should be able to easily complete this project yourself which helps save money too!

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As a parent, you want to make sure that you raise your children to the best of your ability. You want them to be happy and feel confident in the choices that they make. Therefore, if they pick out certain toys to play with, why does it matter if they are designed specifically for boys or girls? What should matter is that your child is enjoying what you have purchased for them. Placing a gender bias on toys can affect their self-esteem and limit their future potential. Here are the reasons why you should avoid placing a gender bias on your kids’ toys.

Shaping a child’s world

The toys we play with as a child will end up shaping how we view the world as adults. A lot of our interests are shaped from what we experience when we are younger. So, if we played with a toy cooker and stove, there is a chance that we would enjoy cooking more as an adult. We may even decide to go into a cooking career as a chef! By limiting the type of toys that children can play with, this may affect how they grow up and what type of people they become. They may grow angry as adults because they have not been allowed to explore certain interests because of their gender. You do not want to limit your children. So, allow them to enjoy whatever toys they choose.

Gender Stereotypes

Most of the time, you will be able to spot the differences between toys created directly for boys and girls. Often this is because they will be blue and pink. This bias will direct girls to distinctly more “girly” objects, whilst boys may be pushed towards sports or scientific objects, like robots or rockets. If you set an expectation of what girls and boys are supposed to do when they are young, you will find that they will retain these values growing up. So, if the values become toxic, it may perpetuate certain stereotypes of masculinity and femininity. For instance, one toxic stereotype is that boys love cars and girls do not. That’s certainly not the case. There are many girls that love the freedom that driving brings. If a child chooses to give a car some feminine trappings, it is through their own choice, not because of a stereotype. So, what’s stopping you from purchasing your kids ride on Lamborghinis? Let them experiment and enjoy themselves with their own interests.

Developing core values

Although many toys are marketed towards a certain gender, it’s important that your child is allowed to play with as many toys as they want. Each toy presents a certain purpose that may help strengthen or develop a core value. For instance, if your son wants to play with a doll, it’s likely that he will strengthen his empathy and caregiving capabilities. If your daughter wants to play with blocks, it’s likely that she will strengthen her hand-eye coordination and engineering skillset. Allow your children to develop their own personalities through play.

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Being a mum is a full-time job. Besides doing the housework, you have to take good care of your kids and spend quality time with them. Yet sometimes, you might feel like you need some sort of fulfilment in the professional area of your life as well. Or maybe you want to have your own money to buy that lovely dress you saw on the Internet! Or you simply don’t want to let your talents be wasted.

Whatever the reason, you can fulfil that dream by working as a virtual assistant. This type of job has a lot of benefits that perfectly match the role of a stay-at-home mum. Besides providing the opportunity of working remotely while also enjoying the time with your kids, it also contributes to self-development.

Sounds wonderful, isn’t it? I mean, who wouldn’t want that sort of harmony in their lives? We know we would. If you think this is what you were looking for, keep reading to find out the advantages of working as a virtual assistant if you are a stay-at-home mum. 

work from home jobs

There is no fixed work schedule

A job that provides flexibility is a dream for many people. But to a stay-at-home mum who has so many duties, it can bring comfort and relief.

When working as a virtual assistant, you get the freedom to decide when you are going to complete the tasks. You don’t have to stick to any schedule- as long as your work is well done, it doesn’t matter what time of the day you do it.

Some people are more productive in the morning, while others do a better job if they work in the evening. You get to plan your day however you want to have time for your family. As long as you meet the client’s deadline and deliver the work in time, your working hours are up to you.

You can achieve work-life balance

Let’s be honest- work-life balance is something everyone is aiming for. Your job matters, but so does your personal time. A 9 to 5 job doesn’t only involve the time spent at the office, but also the commuting hours. You arrive home late after a tiring day at work only to realise that you ran out of food and you have to cook. Not to mention the other housework that you’ve been postponing. Among all these duties, all you need is a moment to breathe and unwind.

A virtual assistant job can bring the balance you need in your life. You get to manage your time better so that you can also care for your kids, watch your favourite Netflix show, and have coffee with your best friend.

Achieving work-life balance means living a fulfilling life. Investing in your professional growth while also making time for your passions will increase your well-being. 

It is an excellent growth opportunity

From data entry and travel booking to social media management, virtual assistants get to perform a wide range of tasks. And if you are the type of person who doesn’t like routine, you might find this job ideal for you. By offering different kinds of services, you get to learn many things, which is a fantastic way of growing professionally. If you don’t want to stick to the services that you’re already skilled at, you can always learn something new through online courses.

As a virtual assistant, you will constantly be evolving! You will gain knowledge on how different systems and programs work, and you will acquire multiple skills. You also get the opportunity to explore various working fields and see what suits you the most. Maybe having fun when creating something in Canva is more enjoyable for you than checking emails. Or maybe writing content comes naturally to you. Whatever is that thing you excel at, you can only find out by trying out different things!

It is a good source of income

Even if things might not be very stable at the beginning, starting a career as a virtual assistant can be a great source of income. It doesn’t matter if you are a single mum who needs to take care of all the finances or if you want to make your own money to help your husband with living expenses- an income is always welcomed.

The amount of money you will make will vary depending on what you offer to your clients. If you are available for services that are not common among other virtual assistants but are highly requested, it will automatically lead to a higher income.

 Plus, you can make money while drinking your coffee in a hotel room and enjoying an incredible view! There really is no limit to what you can do if you are a virtual assistant.

You don’t miss out on interacting with other people

When you are a stay-at-home mum, you don’t really get to interact with people aside from your family members, so it can become quite isolating at times. However, a virtual assistant job requires interaction with your clients. Be it either a phone call, a video call or an email exchange, you get to talk to other people, which can  reduce that feeling of loneliness.  Even though the interaction happens through a screen, it is still significant. Actually, if you are an introvert, you might find online communication even more satisfying!

Working as a VA is meaningful

Working as a virtual assistant can be really satisfying. You help people grow their businesses by simplifying their lives and reducing the stress they might experience. This can bring you a lot of fulfilment and make you feel like your work is valuable.

Besides, it’s more beneficial than other online businesses, such as those from the MLM spectrum. If selling products is not one of your strengths, these jobs can be really stressful and disappointing. But as a virtual assistant, people hire you for your qualifications and because they want your services.

You will be an inspiration to your kids

Children pick up what they see in their environment. They learn from adults- that’s why they must be surrounded by people who are an inspiration.

As they grow up, your kids might be interested in knowing your entrepreneurship story. They might even want to follow this path as well, and then you could share with them what you have learnt throughout the time. Your children will look up to you because they will appreciate you for being a supportive mum who is also successful at work.

Thanks to its many advantages, a virtual assistant job is wonderful for stay-at-home mums who don’t want to give up on their careers. It gives you flexibility, balance and leads to your growth- things that not any job can provide.

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If you’re prepping your newly born infant for their photography session, you must have already booked ahead of time. Generally, “newborn” photography is for babies who are no more than 2 weeks old at the time of the photos. 

However, no one is going to tell you that you can’t do 1 month, 2 month, or whatever month photos of your child. They will surely be just as cute! Let’s go over some tricks of the trade for preparing your baby for their photoshoot.

Fed and Rested

Specifics may be given to you by your newborn photographer and you should absolutely follow those instructions. However, if you don’t receive much insight, it’s not too hard to figure out. First, you want to make sure that your baby is fed 20-30 minutes before the photo shoot.

A hungry baby is a crying baby and a crying baby in a photo is funny here or there, but not for every photo. The best way to make sure that this doesn’t happen is to make sure they don’t have anything to cry about. This will ensure that your baby is happy and going to be giving you all those beautiful poses that babies naturally show off so well.

You also would be wise to make sure that your new baby is rested enough that they aren’t sleepy and cranky during the shoot. It’s okay if they are slightly tired and end up taking a nap during the shoot. Sleeping baby photos are absolutely stunning but you may not want them sleeping in every photo.

If your baby is rested enough that they are not cranky and will be awake for maybe half of the shoot, then you have found the sweet spot. That way you can get some awake and some asleep.

Simple Outfits

Some parents really want to be specific in what their baby is wearing and that is understandable. From a photographer’s perspective, however, the best thing to do is keep it simple and clean. Actually, the best thing to dress your baby in is a solid-colored onesie. I know that seems basic but it will keep the focus of the photo on your little beauty rather than their outfit.

Babies also do well when they are swaddled and photographed. We all know that babies love being warm and wrapped up, this is because it reminds them of the womb and it is comforting. You can find gorgeous wraps and swaddles in many stores that are simple and provide your baby with the comfort they will be craving during this shoot. Many parents also enjoy incorporating headbands or other accessories. 

Additionally, a few diaper shots is a crowd-pleaser. Babes have such soft, new skin and features and that is what parents end up truly missing when they start to grow. You’ll sometimes hear how moms hate when their little ones lose their rolls. 

Don’t Hover

This is a tip for the parents to utilize to prep rather than a tip for your baby. Once you arrive at your appointment and things are grooving, you should really allow the photographer to do what they do best. 

It may be tempting for a new parent to interfere with the photoshoot, but this probably won’t be appreciated much by the photographer. They may ask for your help but wait until that happens. It’s okay to worry, and nothing is going to stop you completely, but trust that they know what they are doing.

Newborn photographers are trained to work with infants and small children. They know how to move your baby and pose them in ways that will be most appealing for the photo and safe for your little one. If you’re able to stick to most of these tips, then you can just sit back and enjoy the experience.

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Looking for plastic free Easter eggs this year? Or maybe you want a vegan Easter egg? I’ve picked out five of my favourites so you can enjoy your Easter treats guilt free.

best plastic free easter eggs

Happy nearly Easter!

I’m not in anyway religious, but I’m happy to jump on the bandwagon of any religious festival that requires the eating of chocolate eggs. Judge me if you will but there we are.

One thing that has always annoyed me though about Easter and Easter eggs in particular is all the waste that goes with them – all those chocolate eggs in huge plastic shells, just waiting for the wrappers to be torn off so that the plastic can get chucked in a lake and eaten by a pregnant dolphin, or whatever it is that happens to it. It’s definitely something like that. But then of course the fishing industry does more damage to fish than plastic, so perhaps veganism is really the answer. Not that Easter eggs normally have fish in them, but still, the principle is sound.

One really easy change you can make this Easter is simply to look out for plastic free or vegan Easter eggs, or ideally both! I’ve picked out five of my favourite options for you, plus if this has got you feeling the vegan Easter vibe why not have a go at making my vegan hot cross bun recipe?

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No-one goes into a marriage thinking it’s going to end in divorce, but unfortunately it does happen, and sometimes financial complication arise. So, what can you do to save money post-divorce? Read on to find out…

Whether you’re getting a divorce due to unreasonable behaviour, adultery, desertion, or you’re using an annulment solicitor to void a marriage that should not have happened, going through a breakup means overcoming many challenges. It can, amongst everything else, lead to complicated financial issues. Not only can the solicitor cost money, but going forward into life as a singleton can leave you in a financial spot of bother.

It’s a stressful time, and adding money to the mix is even more stressful for some. But, it is important to ensure that you, your family, and your finances are protected after a divorce and that you can divorce cheap and quick. This will help you to get on the right track for rebuilding your life post-divorce, as you will now need to support your household on one budget.

Read on to find out our eight top tips that might help you to save money post-divorce…

How to save money divorce

1.   Review your insurances

More specifically, it’s important to make sure that your life cover is sufficient. This is especially important if you have children who are financially dependent on you.

Make sure to seek financial advice so that any policies are set up correctly to eliminate any Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT) liability that could be due in the event of a claim.

2.   Create an emergency fund

It’s important to start creating a backup fund now, so you have a safety net. Easier said than done, we know, but you’ll thank yourself later!

This could be used to fix a broken boiler, car repairs, or if an unexpected incident happens in your life. Three to six months of living expenses is a recommended amount to strive for. After this, you can start to think of short- and long-term savings goals, if your budget allows.

Consider reviewing your budget to know where you can cut down your expenses in order to save for emergencies. For example, start looking at subscriptions you can cancel and other luxuries that will help to increase your disposable income and allow you to save.

3.   Switch utility providers

Another way to save money is to look around to different energy, gas, and water providers. Although, this wouldn’t be recommended by many experts in the current climate, it’s something to bear in mind for the future.

How to save money divorce

4.   Organise your finances

One of the main expenses during a divorce that will drain the money you receive, is the time of your lawyer.

If your finances are organised, you and your ex-partner understand who wants what, and you know your rights in terms of pensions, this can make the divorce process much smoother and quicker, saving you time and money. To do this, some of the things you need to know are:

  • Whether your ex-spouse has insurances in place to cover maintenance payments.
  • Check to see if there are Pension Adjustment Orders (PAO) as part of the divorce settlement.
  • Ensure to recognise how important a pension is.
  • Get your bank statements, credit card statements, tax returns, mortgage payments, car loans, investments, retirement accounts and copies of titles and deeds organised.
  • Ensure you have a paper and electronic copies of important documents where possible.
  • Make a habit of emailing, not calling, your lawyers because time is money.
  • But if you do need to call your lawyer, ensure that you have a clear and concise list of questions you want to get answered.
  • Avoid paying for appraisals on houses and cars where you can.
  • Change beneficiaries on your pension fund and other savings.

If this sounds all too much, be sure to seek the help of a financial adviser to help you out. They can guide you through the process of financial planning to manage your finances more effectively. But aside from working with a financial advisor, you can also consider using reliable personal finance applications and software to help organize your finances. With these innovative solutions, you can create a budget, keep track of spending, pay bills on time, and save money.

5.   Consider a roommate

Although it might seem daunting, getting a roommate could be one of the answers to saving money post-divorce. If you are keeping your current property, you might have a spare room that can now be rented out.

The right roommate will help to take over some of the burden of the cost of rent, but they can also share the cost of groceries if you decide. In some circumstances, and once you’re sure they are trustworthy, you may also be able to rely on them for occasional supervision of your children.

6.   Downsize your home

As a couple, you would’ve been able to afford a bigger home than what you can do now you are a single household. Your expectations on your home need to be realistic, as you will struggle to save money if you want to buy a house of a similar size. So, consider downsizing to help ease the mortgage repayments. It means moving from a bigger home into a dwelling with less square footage or fewer bedrooms to save money post-divorce. 

However, despite the financial benefits, downsizing your home can be a tough process. That’s why if you’re planning to sell your old home and buy a new one, it’s best to work with a real estate professional who can help you. They know exactly how to sell in a sellers’ market and move to the buyers’ market to save most money.

How to save money divorce

7.   Don’t forget child benefit/tax credits

If you are based in the UK, you might be entitled to child benefit or tax credits. This might not make a huge financial difference to you, but it could help to cover the essentials your child needs and will take a little bit of stress off your plate.

If you want to know more about these child benefits or tax credits, you may speak to a trustworthy legal or tax professional for guidance. They may also help explain the process so you can properly file a claim and receive the benefits for your child. 

Remember, there are many solicitors in London or wherever you may be located, who will not only make your divorce as seamless as possible but will also protect your child’s best interests throughout the divorce proceeding. So don’t hesitate to talk to them to know how you can financially protect your little one from the financial impact of divorce.

8.   Change your habits

Changing your habits could be one of the ways to save money after a divorce. It might be difficult to give up the things you are used to, but until you have worked out your budget it would be useful to give it a try.

Habits to change could include eating out less, spending time with friends and family at home, or changing the supermarket you shop in. All of this might seem small, but it will add up.

How to save money divorce

Feeling More Confident About Your Finances Post-Divorce?

Here, we’ve summed up eight tips that might help you to save money throughout the divorce process. Not everything will be suitable to you and your situation, but there is lots of advice out there that can help you to save money before, during and after a divorce or annulment.

Are you going through a divorce or annulment and have some top tips for saving money? Let us know in the comments below.

Photos by Pixabay from Pexels, Pixabay from Pexels,  Scott Webb from Pexels, Michael Burrows from Pexels.

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