If you are not succeeding on Tinder, you probably need to use this new feature.

You may have friends who have had the perfect match on Tinder. Yet even though there are some success stories, the majority are still searching for that ideal partner. That is why Tinder has launched a special feature: Boost. This will make your profile more visible. In other words, you will have a better chance of getting that long-awaited match.

However, to get Boosts, you will have to pay. Many users are willing to do so. With Tinder Boost, you can get up to 10 times more views, which of course dramatically increases your chances of more matches! Yes, Tinder is free, but a “boost” wouldn’t go amiss! This app is the world’s most popular dating app, making it the place to meet new people. So, there is a market. All there is left to do is go to it. Warning: Change your dating mistakes and patterns. It can be really valuable to take a step back and return to dating with fresh eyes.

Tinder Boost

To think about many people will see your profile as their first choice is exciting. But how do you get this feature on Tinder? You can buy the Boost at any time while swiping through profiles on the app. In fact, many users already have this Tinder feature by subscribing to the following packages:

  • Tinder Plus: It has a feature called Passport. This function allows you to communicate with other Tinder users anywhere in the world. In other words, you will have the chance to meet people from all over the world! Of course, you will have a month of Tinder Boost to increase your chances.
  • Tinder Gold: It gives you everything you will find in Tinder Plus. In addition, you will get 5 Super Likes per week! And you can find out who liked you! Unfortunately, there is no way to see who liked you on Tinder without a gold membership. Tinder Plus and free users can’t see this.
  • Tinder Platinum: It has all the aforementioned features, as well as: Message before matching!

However, Tinder Boost is just for 30 mins. After the 30 minutes is over, your visibility goes back to normal. It is therefore important that you know when and where to use it.

Some may think, “why can’t you get these features for free?”, “why do you have to pay?” “Is this a way just to make money out of users?” The answer is, if you are looking for something better, you have to pay for it.

Companies create these special features exclusively for those users who are willing to pay for a better service. Obviously, the more you pay, the more benefits you get. Like a game. Take a look on casinos that offer special bonuses such as those recommended by VSO. You will get a bonus that matches your payment. Of course, as a VIP, you can expect exclusive high roller bonuses. On this site, you will find the best casino bonuses in the UK and get the exclusive experience you are looking for. Note: Certain time limits may apply.

All these special features have one thing in common: enhance customer loyalty. Users, who have promotions or special offers, will be more likely to keep the product than those who have the basics.

Conclusion

The more attractive the prize, the more responses a company will get. More and more users are acquiring the Tinder Boost feature. Why? It increases your visibility! Get the most out of Tinder by purchasing a Boost! Tinder’s marketing strategy won minds (and hearts) by offering a unique match-making experience for millennials and Gen Z.

Some say that Tinder acts as a magnet because of the games and the interactivity involved. As you have seen, the special features it offers are very similar to those you can find in some games. But it is not only that! Indeed, the controls of navigating Tinder – swiping right to like someone and swiping left to pass on their profile – are elements of traditional games! That must be why it is so popular and keeps everyone connected. Hence, the reason for its success.

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Tight pantsuits or skirt suits, crisp collars, and shiny closed-toed stiletto heels may come to mind when thinking of women’s workwear. Classic women’s workwear is lovely, but let’s be honest, it can be uncomfortable at times. Everything changed after 2020, from how we work to how we dress for work. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never worked before or if you’re a seasoned executive at a Fortune 500 business.

Employees in various businesses are wearing for both comfort and flair, thus matching suits are less and less prevalent. To be capable of playing with your workwear, you don’t have to work in a creative industry. Pops of color are everywhere, and mixing and combining designs and fabrics is more popular than ever. Looks that combine old and contemporary working styles, such as a printed dress shirt with a tailored wool blazer, are common.

Comfortable tops

Have you ever received an email that said, “Let’s take this offline?”. It’s most commonly used in emails and online forums when a problem should be discussed in person. When you work from home, though, everything is done online. Shirts are the foundation of every work casual outfit, and they can transform your look from “needs improvement” to “deserves a raise,” and when you pair comfy tops with an effortlessly majestic piece of jewelry like a stunning pearl necklace, you will undoubtedly succeed.

A great work-from-home attire, in addition to a cup of coffee or tea, sets the tone for a productive day. All power to you, if you really want to dress up a little while working from home and without leaving the house. Before you get back to emails, reports, and whatever responsibilities come your way, it’s wonderful to function normally. On Zoom, a white satin shirt with long sleeves will keep you comfy while making you look amazing. No one will notice you’re not wearing slacks or pants on your video chat if you match it with a stylish pair of black leggings.

Cozy, yet classy bottoms

Do you want to appear more professional? Don’t sacrifice elegance for comfort with some relaxed-fit tapered high waist dress pants in traditional black. In these, figuring out how to look decent at a video conference is a distant memory. On hotter days, a looser fit is perfect, especially if you don’t have sufficient ventilation or an excellent air conditioning system at home. The detachable tie waist belt and belt loops will make you feel like you’re wearing your most expensive jeans.

Fresh white styles are what get folks in the spirit for spring and summer. In white stretched tie waist pants that are comfortable enough to lounge around in at home yet dressy enough for working from home, daydream about your next holiday as you work the day away. Swap out your workwear on top for a cropped fake leather puff sleeve blouse if you have fun plans after you clock out and close down your office space for the day, like a virtual happy hour or supper with your sweetheart. Who knew workwear could be that simple from day to night?

Outerwear for the office

Change might be frightening, but it is often for the better. When you become creative with women’s outerwear, you can come up with new ideas and looks for your work from home attire. When it comes to getting dressed for work, most people gravitate toward cardigans and blazers, but there’s a lot more fun to be had outside of those two go-to styles.

When spring and summer arrive, kimonos and dusters are by far the loveliest pieces to wear. They dress up any casual attire and assist in the creation of stunning bathing ensembles. Use a lengthy sleeve belted peplum shirt as a work-friendly coverup to flip outerwear on its head. 

Any basic midi dress or strappy top will look great with a tie-front top with billowy sleeves. Sweating through the spring and summer in a heavy coat isn’t cute, and you can store your bulkier work jackets for when you have to go back to the office and the frigid A/C that runs all year.

Final thoughts

Online work is becoming more common, much like loose or casual office dress codes. Even if a company has a physical office, it’s common to see individuals working on their computers and smartphones at a café, coworking space, or anywhere else outside of a traditional office building. And while you don’t have to go out to get to work anymore, that doesn’t mean you can’t dress up a bit for your online job.

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How to choose a guardian

Life is unpredictable as it is, and no matter how well you plan for it, there’s always a chance for things to go south. As parents, it’s an understandable predicament to prepare for your child’s future – one where you no longer remain in the picture.

After all, having a plan is better than having no plan, especially for a time when you and your partner are no longer around to care for your children. Even though it’s a difficult choice to make or even consider, you need to plan for the worst, so you could have the peace of mind that your child will be well taken care of when you are not around.

The consequences of putting off a will

Failing to arrange a guardian means it falls upon the court to choose one for you, and your child may end up with a family you won’t approve of in the interest of your child.

As the minor gets placed with a new family chosen by the court, the experience can cause disruption in the minor’s growth, even if she is already familiar with the new family.

Prioritize your child’s well-being by naming a guardian ahead of your final hour. The guardian should share your values and should be able to provide your child with a happy and secure childhood. This will ensure a smoother transition process for your child.

The best course of action is to probate a Will while you are still alive and well. Choosing a guardian for your child requires careful consideration. It would be best to select someone you can wholeheartedly trust with your child’s future – someone who can ensure that your child grows up in a loving home.

Seven things to consider when choosing a guardian

Choosing the right guardian for your child will arguably be one of the most challenging and important decisions you will ever make when making a will. Guardianship has definite implications on your child’s future.

You should consider these seven things before deciding on a legal guardian for your child.

  1. Choose someone who is a good parent

Your close friends and family might be willing to babysit for your child every once in a while. But are they ready for the responsibility of looking after your child full time when you are no longer in the picture?

Are they capable of raising a child on their own? Because let’s be honest, looking after a child is no easy feat. You should look for a guardian who treats your child with love and respect when you are not around.

If a potential guardian has kids of their own, then they are aware of the parental struggles of raising a young one and will be able to cater to the child’s needs with love and warmth.

  1. Know that you can change your decision at any time

Selecting a suitable guardian is a tough decision to make. Appointing guardianship, after all, is planning for the worst-case scenario. There is no one as perfect of a caregiver to your child than you.

That said, given the unpredictability of life, a decision has to be made and revisited frequently in light of latest developments and events, so you can be rest assured that you have mad ethe right decision.

  1. Elderly parents are not the ideal choice

People often tend to choose the grandparents of the child as the legal guardians. It might seem like a no-brainer given that they did a great job raising you, right?

While the grandparents may be an acceptable option, you should also factor in how old they will before your child has come of age.

Due to their age, they may not be the ideal choice for guardianship for an adolescent or even a teenager. However, if you follow through with your decision to appoint the grandparents anyway, make sure that you have someone in mind as a backup. The substitute guardian can also help out the grandparents in raising the minor.

  1. 4. Age and finances are essential factors

It’s essential to consider a potential guardian’s age and financial position before appointing them. Financial considerations are crucial, since taking care of a minor is extra financial burden on the guardian’s expenses.

Ask the candidate for guardianship whether or not they’d be willing to take on those extra expenses of raising a young one along with their current expenses.

  1. Religious & Moral Beliefs

Choose a guardian with similar moral and religious beliefs as you to ensure that your child is raised in a way that you would’ve wanted him to be raised. Although finding someone with almost identical beliefs as you can be next impossible, you can settle for someone with some form of moral compass than someone without scruples.

Although godparents aren’t considered guardians by law, you can unquestionably designate your child’s godparents on their birth certificate.

  1. Don’t leave it up to the court

Leaving behind a minor without naming its legal guardian in advance can have severe complications in most states. Minors need a guardian to look after their everyday affairs and take care of their estate (if designated in the will.)

The court will appoint a guardian and conservator for the child if you fail to do so yourself. You shouldn’t be leaving it to the court to decide as the chances of your child ending up with a wrong guardian are greater. When appointing guardian, ask the child’s opinion as to whether or not they are comfortable with the choice of the guardian.

Final thoughts

For the sake of your child’s future, you need to draw up a will if you haven’t already done so. Settling on a suitable guardian for your child will be the most important decision you will make during the process of writing a will. Failing to do so will only result in your child getting a court-appointed guardian, that may or not be to your preferences or in the interest of your child. When choosing a guardian, make sure they are financially stable, have impeccable morals, willing to take up the responsibility, and have an affection toward the child.

 

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Starting an anti-ageing skincare routine can be overwhelming as there are so many different products in the market. From trying to find what products you need and how often you need to use them, this can cause even more of a headache. Let us simplify this process for you!

Read ahead to find out how you can build an anti-aging skincare routine with its three important components (diet, exercise, and products) from start to finish. 

Where do I begin?

Do your research

In this ‘Age of Information,’ there is barely anything we do without doing some research on it first. And your skin is definitely not something you want to take any chances with. So before starting an anti-ageing skincare routine, you should

  • learn the science behind anti-ageing,
  • survey the types of skincare products available, and
  • go through unsponsored reviews of skincare products.

There are countless sources you can consult including medical websites, books by experts, skincare blogs, YouTube channels, and skincare groups on social media. 

However, the internet is loaded with contradictory and biased information on skincare, so it is crucial to be selective about the sources you consult. One excellent source of information on skincare is a dermatologist, also called a “skin doctor”.

Visit a dermatologist

While it’s important to gain background information, Google can’t make you an expert on skincare. It’s a good source of tips for younger looking skin, but you need a dermatologist to safely implement those tips.

Your dermatologist will take into account your concerns, age, medical history, skin type, routine, budget, and other relevant factors to help you create an anti-ageing skincare routine that works for you. 

In addition to a skincare routine, your doctor will also help you choose medical treatments such as facial injectables for specific problems like wrinkles. To learn more about injectables for wrinkles, click here.

What are the fundamentals of an anti-ageing skincare routine?

The three important pillars of an anti-ageing skincare routine are diet, exercise, and skincare products. Let’s discuss each of these in detail now.

Diet 

Food not only acts as a fuel, but it also determines the long-term health of your body, including that of your skin. Eating unhealthy foods — such as those with a lot of sugar, processed carbohydrates, and trans fats — can make your skin look older.

Fruits and vegetables, on the other hand, can make your skin look healthier and younger for longer. According to researchers, nutrition is key in retaining your youthful glow.

Some skin-friendly foods you should incorporate into your diet include:

  • Healthy fats like extra virgin olive oil, avocados, and nuts
  • Fatty fish such as salmon
  • Antioxidant rich foods including green tea, berries, and dark chocolate
  • Leafy greens such as kale and spinach
  • Supplements such as collagen

Exercise

The benefits of exercise for health are widely known, but its effects on skin health aren’t discussed as much as they should be. Exercise makes an essential component of your anti-ageing skincare routine.

It has been shown to keep your skin younger by promoting the release of toxins through sweating and increasing cell growth and replication, which slows down the aging process.

High intensity interval training and endurance workouts are especially good at slowing down the aging process. You may also want to consider adding face yoga and exercises to your routine to keep the skin on your face young and supple.

Skincare products

In addition to lifestyle changes, skincare products also make a fundamental part of an effective anti-ageing skincare routine. Because the skin is a sensitive organ, your skincare routine should be created in consultation with a dermatologist, taking your specific concerns into consideration. 

According to Dr. Ashley Magovern, dermatologist and founder of Manhattan Dermatology in New York, your skincare routine should have three basic steps: cleansing, treating, and moisturizing. 

Cleansing and moisturizing are self-explanatory, but you might be confused about what “treating” involves. Treating your skin means using products with active ingredients like retinol and vitamin C that can help give you the desired results. 

Your daily anti-ageing skincare routine should contain the following products:

Cleanser

Wash your face with a gentle cleanser, which cleans your skin without stripping it off its natural oils. You should cleanse both in the morning and at night, to take away all the makeup, grime, and dirt that has accumulated. 

Facial Mask

Facial masks are essential for maintaining healthy skin. Begin by cleansing your face to rid it of impurities. Applying the mask evenly allows it to work its magic, deeply cleansing pores, eliminating excess oil, and delivering essential nutrients. This process leads to improved hydration, enhanced elasticity, and a radiant complexion. Regular use of facial masks addresses specific skin concerns, making them a crucial component of any rejuvenating skincare routine. 

The mineral-rich content provides a refreshing sensation, leaving your skin noticeably revitalized. Make the Firm + Balance Mineral Mask a staple in your skincare regimen for a radiant and healthy glow.

Toner

A toner is not essential, but it is a great product to incorporate into both your morning and evening skincare routines to refresh your skin and maintain its pH balance. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, consider a toner with anti-acne ingredients like salicylic acid. 

If you have dry or sensitive skin, you would be better off with a hydrating toner.

Serum

Serums target your specific skincare concerns. One example is retinoids. They are derived from vitamin A and trigger your body to make more collagen, which maintains your skin’s elasticity and firmness. Retinoids are introduced gradually into your anti-ageing skincare routine as their potency can cause irritation. 

Remember to consult a dermatologist to help you chart out how to incorporate retinoids into your skincare routine.

Alternatively, you may opt for a vitamin C serum, which helps reverse a lot of the damage your skin gets from pollution and the sun.

Moisturizer

Moisturizers should be incorporated into both your morning and night routines as it not only keeps your skin hydrated but also strengthens its barrier. It is normally applied after active ingredients such as serums.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen should be worn religiously, even if you’re staying indoors. UV rays from the sun (which can penetrate through windows) can cause lasting skin damage and promote fine lines and wrinkles. 

A broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen should be the last step in your anti-ageing morning skincare routine to combat solar damage. Here are some more anti-ageing practices to adopt. 

 

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You will encounter many milestones throughout your life, few as significant as retirement. Regardless of your aspirations for retirement, it’s crucial to explore your options for your post-working years. This article aims to inform you of what you need to do if you’re considering early retirement. It is critical to plan for your long-term future; when considering your pension, seek expert advice from a specialist such as Portafina.

One of the most significant benefits of early retirement is having more time to do the things you want and enjoy. However, you’ll need the money to do this. Therefore, you must have a plan for when you stop working and no longer receive a salary. 

Without a financial plan, you’ll unlikely have sufficient income to sustain the lifestyle you want. When planning, it’s crucial to be realistic, as this will help you from making any life-changing decisions you later regret. While making your plan, you’ll better understand when early retirement is a realistic option and how you can accelerate it.

Can you afford early retirement?

This question is the most crucial one to ask, as you cannot retire early if it is unaffordable. A recent study by Which? magazine delved into three lifestyle options for retirement, ranging from essentials to luxury. The report looked at the average spending requirements of each lifestyle and came up with a required income.

The report concluded that a single person would need a retirement income of £19,000 to live comfortably. However, this figure increased to £26,000 for a two-person household. Which? also included information about the amount needed in your pension pot and the contributions you’ll need to make to achieve that.

Assessing your retirement income.

Your retirement income could be made up of one or all of the following:

The State Pension.

Although the state pension is an excellent supplement to your retirement income, you will not receive it until at least 66. Therefore, if you want to retire early, you cannot rely on this money. Instead, you will need to put something else in place for your initial retirement years, such as a personal pension.

Personal and workplace pensions.

Personal and workplace pensions are the most common form of retirement income. Recent regulations regarding pension freedoms mean that many people can now access their pension funds from age 55. However, you should be aware that taking too much money too soon could leave you short of income when you fully retire.

Savings and assets

You may have other savings and assets that will allow you to retire early. These could include ISAs, rental properties, or other investments. You might have to cash in your investment or savings to bridge the gap between early retirement and receiving your State Pension.

How to boost your retirement funds.

When planning for early retirement, you may find the numbers don’t work. The good news is, there are things you can do to boost your retirement funds:

Assess your pensions.

The first thing you should do is to see how your funds stand and how they stack up compared to how much income you want to have when you retire. A full retirement age calculator can be a big help here to give you an accurate age at which you can start drawing social security benefits and how much you’ll need to top up with your own funds. Pension schemes will differ in performance, administration, and management charges. If you are part of a scheme performing poorly and has a high level of charges, your funds could be diminishing. Consulting an independent financial advisor helps you assess your pension options and switch to a more beneficial scheme. 

Make top-up payments.

Topping up your pension contributions now and again can significantly impact the money you have for retirement. Pensions are an excellent long-term savings vehicle as they are tax-efficient. Therefore, consider putting any leftover cash into your pension savings rather than squandering it.

Even though your top-up payments may be minimal, they will still benefit from compound interest growth. What this means is the money you earn on interest in one year will benefit from the following years of interest. Over the lifetime of your pension, these small top-up payments can grow considerably. The sooner you make top-up payments, the more time they will have to grow.

Join a workplace pension scheme.

If you are employed, you would likely have been auto-enrolled into a workplace pension scheme. If you’re not part of one, you should consider joining as soon as possible. Workplace pension schemes take a small proportion of your salary, about 4%, and put it in your pension fund. On top of this, your employer also contributes to your retirement fund.

Postpone your retirement.

An obvious way to generate more money for your retirement is to put your retirement off. Although postponing your retirement is contrary to early retirement, it will enable you to prioritise having sufficient income when you stop working. Also, the longer you work, the longer you will receive your employer’s contributions to your retirement.

Postponing your retirement not only has a financial benefit, but it can be good for both your physical and mental well-being. If continuing to work full-time past your planned retirement age is challenging to accept, why not consider reducing your hours or getting a part-time job instead?

Early retirement is all in the planning.

With a bit of financial planning, early retirement is achievable. It all starts with you deciding upon the lifestyle you want to have when you start working, calculating what that will cost, and taking action to achieve the income you require for it

 

1 https://www.which.co.uk/money/pensions-and-retirement/starting-to-plan-your-retirement/how-much-will-you-need-to-retire-atu0z9k0lw3p

 

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bucket and spade family holiday

Time spent together exploring new places and having fun is what memories are made of. But if you’re worried that a family vacation will break the bank, don’t be!

Debt experts Carrington Dean share below their top tips for a family vacation that doesn’t break the bank. Having helped hundreds of families beat debt through Trust Deeds, Carrington Dean have the experience to help if you are struggling. Not sure where to begin? Start by checking your Trust Deed eligibility HERE.

Here are their 12 money-saving tips for a family vacation below:

  1. Plan ahead to get the best deals on flights and accommodations.

If you’re looking to take a vacation on a budget, it’s important to plan ahead. One of the best ways to save money is to book your flights and accommodations well in advance. This gives you time to shop around for the best deals and avoid paying last-minute prices.

  1. Choose a destination that is budget-friendly.

There are a number of budget-friendly destinations around the world that are perfect for families. Some great options include Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. These countries offer a wide range of activities and attractions, as well as affordable accommodation and food options.

  1. Consider a package deal.

Another great way to save money on your family vacation is to look into package deals. Many travel companies offer discounts when you book your flight, hotel, and rental car together. This can be a great way to reduce the overall cost of your trip.

  1. Stick to a budget.

Once you’ve determined how much you’re willing to spend on your family vacation, it’s important to stick to that budget. This means being mindful of your spending and avoiding any unnecessary purchases. If you can stick to your budget, you’ll be able to enjoy your trip without breaking the bank.

  1. Find free or discounted activities.

There are a number of ways to find free or discounted activities when you’re on vacation. Many museums and attractions offer discounts for families, and there are often coupons available for local activities. You can also find a number of free or low-cost activities by doing a bit of research in advance.

  1. Eat like a local.

One of the best ways to save money on food while on vacation is to eat like a local. This means avoiding tourist traps and instead opting for budget-friendly restaurants and street food. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also get to experience the true flavor of your destination.

  1. Use public transportation.

If you’re looking to save money on transportation while on vacation, consider using public transportation. This is often much cheaper than renting a car, and it can be a great way to see your destination. Be sure to do some research in advance to find out which option is best for your trip.

  1. Stay in a budget hotel.

There are a number of budget-friendly hotel options available, so be sure to do your research before booking. There are a number of websites that offer comparisons of different hotels, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.

  1. Avoid tourist traps.

One of the best ways to save money on your family vacation is to avoid tourist traps. These are often overpriced and not worth the money. Instead, focus on finding budget-friendly activities and attractions that will give you a true taste of your destination.

  1. Travel during the off-season.

If you’re flexible with your travel dates, consider traveling during the off-season. This is often when prices are at their lowest, so you’ll be able to save a lot of money. Just be sure to do your research in advance to find out when the off-season is for your chosen destination.

  1. Use coupons and discounts.

Be sure to take advantage of any coupons or discounts that are available. Many attractions offer discount tickets for families, and you can often find coupons for local restaurants and activities. By using these coupons, you’ll be able to save a significant amount of money on your trip.

  1. Shop around for the best deals.

When you’re planning your family vacation, it’s important to shop around for the best deals. This means comparing prices for flights, hotels, and rental cars. You can also sign up for newsletters from travel companies to receive exclusive deals and offers. By taking the time to shop around, you’ll be able to save a lot of money on your trip.

With these 12 amazing tips, you’ll be sure to have a budget-friendly family vacation that doesn’t break the bank. So start planning your trip today and enjoy all the amazing benefits that come with it!

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Holding a birthday party for your child and some of his or her friends can present some challenges. One of the kids may have food allergies or be on a strict diet. Others may have parents that don’t want them hyped up on a lot of sugar.

Keep everyone happy with these ideas for birthday treats both kids and parents will love.

1. Parfait “Sundae” Bar

Have the kids make their own healthy “sundaes” by setting up a parfait bar. Use Greek yogurt and fresh or frozen berries, granola, nuts, and raisins, and let the kids layer the ingredients in their cups as they like. You can also have some coconut yogurt on hand for those kids that are dairy-free or vegan.

2. Fun Fresh Fruit

Few parents would balk at their children eating fresh fruit, but kids can sometimes turn their noses up at plain cut-up apples or oranges. You can make fruit more fun by cutting it up into pieces and allowing the kids to make pictures with it. Give them paper plates and cut-up pieces of apples, bananas, oranges, kiwis, berries, and whatever else you have.

Put out some nut butter and hummus for kids to use as “glue,” perhaps some cut-up celery, cucumbers, and lettuce for green decorative items, and raisins and nuts for eyes and noses. Kids will make pictures they can munch on the way!

You can also dress up your party with pre-made fresh fruit arrangements. Choose platters, bouquets, or baskets, and let them dress up your tables in a healthy way.

3. Make-Your-Own Snack Mix

You can make these ahead of time or get the kids involved if you like. Personalize the mix for the birthday boy or girl by choosing their favorite ingredients. Good options include cereal, nuts, seeds, dried fruit, air-popped popcorn, raisins, and granola. Place in paper cups, plastic bags, or even flat-bottomed cones.

4. Choose-Your-Own Mini Pizza

These are a hit at any birthday party. Skip the cake and bring on the pizza. Make things easier by getting some ready-made mini-pizza dough before the party starts. Then let the kids choose their toppings from your homemade toppings bar. Fill it with favorites like cheese, ham, pepperoni, pineapples, cherry tomatoes, chicken pieces, green peppers, and olives.

You may want to spread the tomato sauce yourself for younger kids or let older ones make their own. Finally, pop the mini pizzas into the oven for 15-20 minutes.

5. Festive Taco Bar

A taco bar can be just as fun as a parfait or pizza bar. Prepare all the fillings the day before, then set them out and let the kids go for it. Fillings may include beef, chicken, and some vegetarian options if needed, along with cheese, tomatoes, lettuce, and black olives.

6. Watermelon Cut-Outs

Watermelon has the coveted position of being healthy and loved by most kids. You can make it even more fun by hauling out the cookie cutters and letting kids cut out their favorite watermelon shapes. If you have cutters shaped like hearts or letters, kids may have fun spelling their names. Add some color by using honeydew and cantaloupe too.

7. Dippable Veggie Platters

Think kids won’t eat their veggies? Try luring them in with some tasty dip. Start by cutting the veggies into small, fun shapes. (Good options include carrots, celery, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes.) Make them into faces on a plate if you like. Then pull out the dip. Good options include yogurt, nut butter, hummus, melted cheese, cream cheese, and avocado.

8. Party Popcorn  

As long as you air-pop it, popcorn is a healthy treat. And you can do a lot with it. Let the kids string it on a thread and use it as a decoration, or play a game to see how many times pairs of kids can catch tossed pieces in their mouths. Add some flavor to the popcorn with some grated Parmesan or garlic powder, or toss it with some almonds, coconut, and a few chocolate chips.

9. Chips and Dip

Most kids like tortilla chips, particularly if they have a choice in what dip to use. You can put out small bowls of salsa, guacamole, melted cheese, hummus, or garlic dip, or make your own homemade dip. Use small cups to give kids individual servings of dip.

10. Fruit Slushies

Forget the food and go for special drinks with real fruit slushies. They’re easy to make and almost always a hit with kids. Combine real fruit and ice in a blender and you have a refreshing, balanced snack for the kids. Make it creamy with a little yogurt or a dash of vanilla ice cream.

It can be difficult to find party treats that are kid-appropriate yet not too loaded with sugar and other ingredients their parents probably don’t want them to load up on. Keep the kids satisfied with these delicious party treats that their parents won’t mind. 

 

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As a young parent, you’re probably always looking for ways to teach your kids important life skills. One of the most important is how to save money. Teaching your kids early on how to save will help them in the long run.

Young people, having not been taught the importance of saving, often find themselves trapped in a difficult financial situation later in life. This can lead to filing for consumer proposals and other solutions to help beat the debt they are in. You can find out more here.

Start teaching your kids to be mindful of money and how to save to minimise any financial issues later in life.,

Check out the top tips below:

1. Lead by example

This can be done in a variety of ways, but one of the best strategies is to lead by example. If you are frugal and focused on saving rather than spending, your kids will likely follow suit. This means being intentional about how you use your own money, shopping around for deals when possible, and finding ways to reduce your monthly expenses. In addition, it’s important to talk with your kids openly about money and finances – sharing what you learn along the way and discussing any challenges that come up.

2. Start early

It’s never too early to start teaching your kids about money. As soon as they are old enough to understand, start talking with them about money and what it means. This can be done in a simple way, such as explaining that money is something we use to buy things we need or want. You can also introduce the concept of earning money through allowances or chores.

3. Encourage them to save

One of the best ways to encourage your kids to save is to match their savings. For example, if they are able to put away $5 from their allowance each week, you can match that with an additional $5. This will help them see the benefits of saving and will encourage them to keep up the good habit.

4. Help them set savings goals

It’s important for kids to have a reason for saving money, so help them set specific goals. This could be something short-term, like saving for a new toy, or something longer-term, like saving for college. Once they have a goal in mind, help them come up with a plan for how to reach it. This could involve setting aside a certain amount of money each week or month.

5. Teach them about needs vs. wants

One of the most important lessons you can teach your kids about money is the difference between needs and wants. Needs are things we must have in order to survive, like food and shelter. Wants are things that we would like to have, but they are not essential. This is a tough concept for kids (and adults!) to grasp, but it’s an important one. When they understand the difference, they can start making better decisions about how to spend their money.

6. Give them opportunities to practice

One of the best ways to teach your kids about money is to give them opportunities to practice. This could involve setting up a pretend store where they can play “customer” and “salesperson,” or giving them a small amount of money to spend at a real store. This will help them understand the concept of money and how to make decisions about spending.

7. Encourage them to be charitable

Teaching your kids about the importance of giving back is a great way to instill the value of money. When they see that their money can be used to help others, they will start to understand its true worth. There are a number of ways to encourage charity, such as donating old toys or clothes, helping out at a food bank, or volunteering at a local shelter.

8. Help them understand credit and debt

Credit and debt are two important concepts that every adult should understand. But they can be confusing, especially for kids. A good way to explain credit is to think of it as a “loan” that you will need to pay back with interest. Debt, on the other hand, is money that you owe and cannot pay back. It’s important to teach your kids about the dangers of going into debt, and how to avoid it.

9. Talk about advertising

Advertising is everywhere, and it can be tough for kids to understand. A good way to explain it is to say that advertisers are trying to “sell” us something. They do this by showing us pictures or videos of people using their product and telling us how happy they are. It’s important to teach your kids that not everything they see in an ad is true, and that they should be careful about what they believe.

10. Keep the lines of communication open

Money can be a sensitive topic, so it’s important to keep the lines of communication open with your kids. This means that you should feel comfortable talking about money with them, and they should feel comfortable coming to you with any questions or concerns. If you can create a open and honest dialogue about money, you will be setting your kids up for success.

In conclusion,  teaching your kids about money is a crucial life skill. But it’s not always easy. By using these tips, you can help your kids learn about the importance of saving, spending, and giving.

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We live in progressive times, from co-working spaces to speed date events specially designed and tailored to the needs of adults living on the spectrum – 2021 had it all.

In 2022, there is a new buzzword that everyone needs to know about and that is – “mommunes”. These co-habiting spaces are designed for single moms raising their little ones together.

As every mom knows, having a newborn can take its toll on those around them. The late-night feeds and changes and the screaming can get a bit much for roommates – and that’s where mommunes come in.

Here are five things you need to know about these co-living spaces:

  1. Shared Knowledge

The trend that is a play on the word “commune” is taking the progressive world by storm, but if you think about it – this is how children were raised long ago. That’s where the saying “it takes a village” comes from.

This kind of communal living arrangement gives single moms the shared knowledge they need to raise their children. When experienced moms share their knowledge and wisdom with new moms, great things happen.

  1. Mom Support

No one on this planet understands a single mom quite as another single mom does. The support and help from others who know what you are going through are immeasurable.

Your friends and family can support you as much as they like, and that is wonderful – but mom friends are a must for getting through the difficult times.

  1. Insurance & Home Warranties

Being a mom means that you will always have your little one to worry about – even when they’re off to college and not so little anymore, so make sure that you don’t have to worry about trivial stuff too.

Get true peace of mind by investing in a home warranty package to suit your needs. Check out a review of what Choice Home Warranty offers and find the one that works best for you and your budget.

  1. Money Saving

Shared knowledge is a massive bonus, but shared costs will seal the deal. When living in a mommune, the most vital thing to do is to embrace bulk buying. Most communal mom spaces will have anywhere from four to twelve children living in them – so value deals are your friend.

Save your money, if possible, for a rainy day. Remember that medical costs can cost a fortune, so save where you can because all children get sick – it’s just a part of growing up. That means that cohabitation can be the best solution for you and your child.

  1. Shared Clothing

Every mom knows that children outgrow clothing at lightning speed. Communal co-habitation spaces mean that all that clothing will not go to waste. Share your clothing with the other moms and they will do the same for you.

As your children get older, their old clothing items can be passed down to the younger children in the mommune. These could be the best thing to happen to single moms, next to the birth of their beautiful babies that is.

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How to groom a poodle

Dogs are known to help humans live longer because of the happiness they bring to their owners. They help reduce stress and even boost your mood. So, if you’re a dog parent, you probably agree with these facts and enjoy all these benefits. However, like all relationships, you need to care for and love them as much as possible. You must ensure their health on top of keeping them look adorable at all times.

If you can’t visit the pet salon due to the pandemic or simply find it more practical to groom your dog, particularly your pet poodle, by yourself, it’s possible to do this task at home. With some basic grooming tools and skills, you can foster a stronger relationship with your dog and even save money from your pet salon expenses. The good news is that any pet parent is capable of performing basic grooming tasks for their pet poodle. 

Here’s an easy guide to grooming your pet poodle:  

 

  • Give Them A Trim 

 

Different grooming styles will look best on your poodle. A simple poodle trim can be performed by starting with their paws first. Start by shaving the feet and trimming any hair between the paw pads. Gently trim away hair from between your dog’s footpads by holding their foot in a comfortable position. 

You can estimate the suitable length for the hair on their feet before finally cutting the body. While clipping your dog’s feet, remember to scoop the clip between toes, taking care not to nick the webbing between the toes. As for your poodle’s face and neck, you can start trimming from the neck up. Set your clipper at 15 to achieve the proper cutting method. Pull your dog’s neck skin taut by holding the head, with their nose pointing upward.

In a straight line, along the outer corners of each eye, trim the inner ear of your poodle and the outer corners of their face. Connect the area of the neck that’s been trimmed beside the ear with the area trimmed on the throat. Keep your touch light around the eyes and be extra careful. Glide the clipper along the face, chin, and nose. Make sure all the hair length is uniform.

dog grooming tips

 

  • Prepare Some Grooming Tools 

 

Families thinking of owning a dog need to learn the critical points of caring for them. They need to understand that grooming is vital, especially when taking care of a poodle.

The first thing you need to prepare for when deciding to groom your poodle at home is to ensure you have all the necessary poodle grooming tools. You shouldn’t bother with fancy poodle grooming clips unless you plan to join contests with them. Instead, opt for an easier-to-maintain and user-friendly dog clip. 

You can use this tool to groom any poodle you own, whether a toy, standard, or miniature one. Aside from the dog clip, you’ll need to have a few brushes and combs, and that’s about it. Grooming your poodle is very easy, and you can actually learn from online videos and blog posts from fellow poodle parents. You can join forums, learn about hair maintenance tools and products, and apply them to your own fur baby. 

 

  • Brush And Bathe Your Poodle 

 

What’s best about poodles is that they don’t shed their hair as much as the other breeds. However, you must regularly bathe them and brush their hair. Poodles especially need a lot of brushing as their hair tends to get matted together quickly as it sheds, so poodles with long hair should be brushed daily. You can generally brush once or twice a week when the dog has shorter hair. The best way to brush their hair is to begin from the neck down to their tail. 

Clip away tangles or thick mats with scissors. Be very careful when cutting tangles. Ensure that the skin is far from the tangle before cutting. When they go for long periods without grooming, poodles are susceptible to matting due to the way their hair sheds. 

As for bathing, you don’t necessarily have to bathe your dog every day. It could be done twice a month, or you can ask your vet for their personal recommendation. However, when your dog has played outdoors and becomes dirty, it’s important to bathe them. Before trimming your dog with clippers, you should also wash them, as an oily or dirty coat can prematurely dull your clippers. 

Conclusion 

You don’t have to stress if you find yourself stuck at home with your dog due to the ongoing pandemic. With the right tools and tips mentioned in this guide, you can do the grooming for your poodle by yourself. If there’s any excessive matting, you can consult a pet salon specialist or your vet to groom your poodle more effectively. Grooming your pet poodle by yourself will allow them to get closer to you, so start grooming your pet at home and apply the pointers above. 

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Tidy – Barry Island is the UK’s most searched for beach hut location but you might want to try somewhere less well-known….

beach hut

The rise and rise of the humble beach hut

Beach huts have always been a quintessential part of the British seaside holiday, but over the last few years, these humble little wooden structures have become an unlikely staycation status symbol.

First made popular by the Victorians, these brightly coloured little huts have lined the country’s coastlines since the mid-1800s, but in the last few years – accelerated by the pandemic forcing people to holiday at home – they have become trendy. So much so, that people are willing to pay astronomical prices to get their hands on one – last summer, a beach hut in Dorset sold for more than £350k.

Love your hut

It is clear that our obsession with beach huts is here to stay, but with a limited number of them along the country’s coastlines – there are believed to be around 20,000 privately owned huts in the UK – waiting lists are getting longer, and prices getting higher as people fight to secure their little piece of seaside real estate, so anyone who is lucky enough to own one will be looking to protect it.

Luckily there are specialist providers out there with policies designed specifically to cover the unique risks associated with beach huts; https://loveyourhut.co.uk/  is a specialist comparison site specifically for beach hut insurance, offering a friendly and efficient service and competitive prices.

Location location location

It is safe to say that the UK has a love affair with beach huts, but the strength of that love varies dramatically across the UK, with some seaside towns struggling to drum up any interest at all, renting out huts for a few pounds a day, while others have waiting lists years long and price tags that would make your eyes water. Sometimes just a few under metres makes all the difference – for example in Walton along the Essex coastline, hut prices start at around £6k, but just around the corner in Frinton, they cost upwards of £20k; here, we explore the highs and lows of the UK’s beach hut scene…

Most searched for – Barry Island

According to research by money.co.uk, the most searched for beach hut location in Britain is Barry Island in South Wales. Made famous by Gavin & Stacy, Barry island boasts 24 vibrantly coloured beach huts, and at £750 for a year, they could be a ‘tidy’ option as Ness might say.

Most popular – West Wittering

West Wittering is one of the premier Blue Flag beaches in the UK, and houses in the seaside town cost more than £700,000 on average, so it is no surprise people are clamouring to get a little taste of luxury beach life by purchasing a hut – some of them are so posh they don’t have numbers, they have names…like Betty.

Most expensive – Mudeford Sandbank 

Mudeford Sandbank made the headlines in September after a beach hut there went on the market for £575,000. The 13ft by 10ft cabin sleeps six, and has a fitted kitchen and is powered by solar panels, but has no toilet, and if and when it sells, will officially become the most expensive hut in the UK – nice if you can afford it.

Hidden gem – Hamworthy

Despite being known to locals as one of the most stunning and tranquil locations in the country, Hamworthy beach in Poole is one of the least searched beach hut locations in the UK, meaning any beach hut hunters that do know about this hidden gem could strike gold.

Best bargain – Walton on the Naze

There are plenty of beach huts for rent across the UK, but they don’t come up to buy very often. But there are currently at least five for sale along the award winning golden sandy beaches of Walton on the Naze in Essex ranging in price from £28,000 to £60,000. And with prices for huts around the corner in Frinton starting at £70,000, a hut in Walton could be a great investment.

Worst – Weston Super Mare

Despite the huge rise in popularity of beach huts, nowhere quite hammers home the location location location message like Weston Super Mare, known by locals as Weston Super Mud due to its less than sandy beaches. In 2015, 24 colourful beach huts arrived on the promenade at Royal Sands, in Weston and were put up for rent online. An initial surge of interest saw the first lease sold for £2,650, but since then, interest has waned. Only nine of the original huts remain but many are empty so, if you like mud, it could be just the place for you.

Keep your investment safe

Whether your hut is worth £3,000 or £300,000, it is vital that you protect it; https://loveyourhut.co.uk/beach-hut-insurance is a specialist beach hut insurance comparison site that compares the market so you don’t have to. With more than 15-years’ experience in the niche beach hut market, https://loveyourhut.co.uk/ offers expert UK based support, and prices you’ll love as much as your hut.

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best skincare routine

I took Belle with me on tour last week for our show in Solihull. We were getting into bed in the hotel and I was just getting comfy when she looked across as me accusingly.

‘Are you not even going to take your make-up off?’ she asked horrified.

‘No,’ I said, ‘should I?’

She gave me a wipe. Apparently the answer was yes.  View Post

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