5 Tips to traveling to the Lake District

When setting off for your next adventure in the Lake District there are several things to keep in mind besides having the best time of your life. There are places to visit, sites to see, and nature to enjoy. In an effort to help you get the most out of your holiday, we have identified some tips in which you will want to take note of while on your trip.

  1. Pack accordingly. There are so many amazing things to do in the Lake District, that you want to make sure that you are prepared with the proper attire. With the wide variety of outdoor activities to partake in such as but not limited to hiking, fishing, cycling, and boating, you will surely want to pack comfortable clothing that is lightweight and breathable. Also be sure to pack proper shoes. It would not serve you well to pack your favorite Converse All-star shoes to go hiking. You may want something a bit more suitable by brands such as Columbia or the North Face.
  2. Wear sunscreen. While the weather will vary in temperature and the clouds may come and go, it is still important to be prepared with sunscreen. The gorgeous landscape can take your breath away and also provide great access to your skin. If you are not a fan of wearing sunscreen, opt for a long sleeved shirt, long pants, and a wide-brimmed hat. This will keep you from getting scorched by the warm sun which could cut your vacation short if you were to get sun poisoning.
  3. Drink water. While on vacation, regardless of where you are traveling to, it is important to stay hydrated so that you can enjoy your time to the fullest. If you are dehydrated, your body may not be able to keep up and may require frequent rest stops or worse, a hospital visit. Eat and drink to nourish your body so that you can be as active and adventurous as you want to be.
  4. Try something new. One of the best things about going on holiday is that you are most likely going to a place where you can experience and try new things. Don’t be afraid to be adventurous and attempt something that you have never done before. Perhaps you are new to boating or you have never heard the stories of Beatrix Potter. Whether you stop by the Beatrix Potter Museum for a spot of tea and biscuits, or you go on a boating excursion, trying something new will provide a long-lasting memory from your travels.
  5. Take photographs. The Lake District provides some of the most outstanding backdrops for scenic photographs. Whether you photograph the gorgeous Tarn Hows or Beatrix Potter’s farmhouse, be sure to take many so that you can remember the lovely trip you had. It is also a good idea to get a few photographs of you and those you traveled with.

The Lake District is gorgeous and has something for everyone. When you are traveling, be sure to remember our friendly tips and have a great time!

How to Choose a Perfect Trip Destination

Many people face the exciting challenge of settling for a good place to visit. While other factors may sometimes dictate the destination, many people are stuck with the decision on where exactly to go. Picking the right and the most appropriate place is the beginning of a successful journey.

Here are some factors to consider when settling for a destination.

Budget: You can only work with what you have. Enough planning and thorough research always works to provide the best experience. While at it, check offers in your preferred destinations if you are working on a tight budget. If possible, schedule your trip against the masses.

Security: Tourists tend to be terrorists’ frequent targets. Given that terror threats are real, make sure to pay close attention to travel bans and advisories.

Thieves also target visitors. An attack could leave a tourist quite horrified. Many people, if not all, who undergo a robbery ordeal suffer trauma among other things. Hence, avoiding polarized areas or politically unstable regions is wise. Keep to the sectors that are secure.

Weather: A shift from one extreme weather condition to another instantly may take a toll on your body making a supposedly enjoyable holiday a misery. Before getting to make the travel arrangements, it is essential to take note of the weather. This information should also be a pointer to what the suitcase will contain. The climatic conditions will determine the types of clothes to be carried.

Reason for visit: Different reasons prompt excursions and travels for different people. A doctor going on duty may not need a very defined itinerary. On the other hand, a vibrant group headed for a dancing experience will need to consider some things.

According to Cindy and Steve Clough from https://www.justforkix.com/girls/cat, a dance troupe has to think of all the details, from a seamless transport arrangement to well-chosen dancing costumes and gear, for the maximum thrill. Of course, the luggage will reflect the purpose of the visit.

Time difference: Regions differ in time zone. You will need to familiarize yourself with the time zone in which your destination lies. The last thing you would wish to experience is missing your flight, train or whatever means of transport in a strange place. In case you are on safari, ensure you work with the timings of the wild.

Travel documents and other requirements: Some of the questions to ask are, are their travel documents required to get into the country of choice? Are the travel documents such as passport, Identification cards, and others valid? Some countries facilitate visas on arrival while others require one to process in advance. As it varies from one country to another and their relationships, every traveler should do their due diligence.

Understand the state relations and all requirements in advance. There are also some vaccines recommended or required when entering some regions. I am sure checking into ER does not feature in your travel plan.

Language and Culture: While some destinations are great sites, their locations are extremely remote. Indigenous populace might not be able to express themselves in foreign languages due to lack of exposure and foreigners. If the place is a rich historical site, then a visitor might end up not getting sufficient background information. One would be advised to consider engaging a translator in such cases.

Going by the example of a group of teenage and youthful dancers, be conscious of the local cultural practices. Western countries are extremely accommodating in regard to dressing.

However, in the Middle East or some parts of Africa, some dresses may be deemed offensive.

Customer Review: Always find time to check what others said about the proposed destination before settling on the particular spot you would wish to visit. Other people’s experiences and recommendations can save you headaches by helping you identify the most preferred destinations. Once you settle for the right destination, the other details will easily fall in place.

3 healthcare epidemics that are on the rise in Ohio

Ohio, like much of the America, is struggling to combat a number of particular issues within the healthcare arena. Here are 3 healthcare epidemics that are currently on the rise in Ohio.

  1. Prescription medication abuse

Over the last few years, the number of people struggling with addiction to prescription drugs such as antidepressants or painkillers has skyrocketed and Ohio is no exception. Drugs such as vicodin, or oxycontin have been prescribed in record numbers leading to a spike in the number of people developing addictions to these drugs. These drugs often act as gateways to hard drugs and this has been one of the causes of Ohio’s serious opioid problem. But steps are now being taken to combat this issue.

On the 30th March 2017, Ohio Gov. John Kasich announced plans to limit prescriptions of narcotic painkillers to 7 days, down from 30 or even 90 days under the old law. This law will apply to doctors, dentists, or prescribing nurses. It is hoped that this step will help curb the epidemic of prescription drug abuse in Ohio.

  1. Diabetes

According to the Center for Disease Control (‘CDC’), Ohio is ranked 5th in state rankings for levels of diabetes in 2016. Last year, in the Greater Cincinnati area alone there were almost 300,000 people diagnosed with diabetes and in Ohio alone there are currently 850,000 people living with diabetes. This figure is set to rise year on year. With causal factors linked to obesity and lifestyle, diabetes is costing the Ohio people billions of dollars a year in missed work and health care fees. There are however, a number of charities currently working on education and lifestyle programs aimed at tackling the causes of this epidemic.

  1. Heroin

Perhaps the most serious issue facing police, law makers, and healthcare workers in Ohio is the use of heroin. Figures released in November 2016 showed that Ohio led the United States in opioid overdoses. In 2014 there were 2016 fatalities due to heroin overdoses. In 2015, this figure had risen to 3050, the highest in the USA. And sadly, this epidemic shows no signs of slowing down, with figures for 2017, already showing around a 20% increase in the number of deaths since last year. As the number of deaths from prescription medications have leveled out thanks to a concerted effort by the state, they have been met by an increase in the number of people using hard drugs such as heroin or fentanyl. The problem has gotten so bad that in March 2017, the New York Times reported that the number of deaths from drug use in Ohio was so high that cold storage trailers were being brought in to be used as morgues.

But thankfully there are organizations out there that are looking to help try and reduce these shocking statistics. Organizations such as Ohio Drug and Alcohol Rehab Centers are there to offer help to recovering addicts. With centers located throughout Ohio, they can offer sanctuary from the torment of addiction and provide help and support to those affected by addiction. You can find out more on their website here.

The top 5 things to do in Oahu

Summer is upon us and planning your annual family holiday is probably taking great stock in your mind. Planning a big trip can take lots of time, energy, and attention to detail. When putting your vacation agenda together, you have to take into consideration the interests of everyone who will be on the trip as well as costs associated with the activity. If you are planning to travel to Hawaii this summer, Live Your Aloha can help make the preparation process smooth and stress-free. This article will also help you plan as it will identify 5 fun things to do in Oahu!

  1. History! Oahu is home to several historical landmarks that date back to the day that will forever live in infamy, December 7, 1945. Taking your family to visit the Pearl Harbor Memorial, USS Arizona Memorial, or the Battleship Missouri Memorial will be both educational and unforgettable. While there are many fun things to do on the island, taking time to visit the memorials and learn about Pearl Harbor is a once in a lifetime opportunity. While some visit the memorials on their own, it is best to go with a tour guide. When booking a tour, you will not have to worry about fighting the crowds for tickets or worrying about where to park. The tour guide will take care of all the logistics. All you have to do is show up.
  2. Nature and Parks. Grab your sunscreen and set out to explore the gorgeous land that is Oahu island. There are many parks to visit. Many include opportunities to hike or relax on the beach. Whatever you choose to do, be sure to use sunscreen generously and stay hydrated.
  3. Sailing. There are many ways to enjoy the ocean in Oahu. Take your family on a sailing excursion or an evening dinner cruise. Perhaps you may have an interest in snorkeling or fishing. The opportunities to experience the ocean and marine life are abundant in Oahu. If you are not much into experiencing the ocean by boat, consider taking a helicopter ride to experience the island from above. See picturesque views that are remarkable and will leave you mystified by the beauty.
  4. Food and drink. The island offers a great deal of bars, restaurants, flea markets, and swap meets. Whether you are interested in purchasing fresh produce while on your vacation or bartering with the locals at a flea market, there is something for everyone in Oahu. After a morning at the market or swap meet, stop by a local bar and grill for a bite to eat and a cold, refreshing beer.
  5. Valley of the Temples. If you are interested in religious monuments or simply want a place to worship or meditate, there are many places to do so in Oahu. The Valley of the Temples is located in the mountains, surrounded by well maintained lush vegetation and small gold fish ponds. Local cats are known to wander around the property so do not be alarmed if you make a new furry friend.

There is something for everyone in Oahu. Pack your bags and have a magnificent time!

What Surfaces Can I Tile

Tiling on different surfaces – how is it done?

If you need to replace tiles in your home, you may be thinking about doing the work yourself. Tiling is not an easy job, but you can do it if you have patience and follow the instructions. There can be lots of different surfaces in a home, and you need to apply different techniques, depending on the surface.

The aim of this article is to look at some of the processes you need to complete, to successfully install tiles in your home. We are going to examine the process for installing tiles on concrete, wood and vinyl.

Installing tiles on concrete

The most important thing to remember, when installing ceramic tiles on concrete, is that you need to fix any cracks that are present, before you start the installation. This applies to all smaller cracks which are up to about one eighth of an inch. If you spot any larger cracks in the concrete you really need to remove the section of concrete and lay a new one.

You also need to check that there are no chemicals present on the concrete. If there are any chemicals on the surface, they can adversely affect the bonding process, when you lay the tiles. If you are unsure whether there are any chemicals in place you should drip some water on the concrete and check to see if beading occurs. If it does, it’s likely that chemicals have been used to coat the concrete.

Installing tiles on wood

If you are looking to install ceramic tiles on wood, you have to be careful as the wood needs to be strong enough to support the tiles. For instance, tongue and groove, hardwood and chip board are all unsuitable surfaces on which to install ceramic tiles.

If you have a wood surface that is suitable for tiling over, you need to sand it down first so that the tiles can be installed effectively.

Installing tiles over current tiles

It’s possible to install new ceramic tiles over tiles that are already in place. You need to ensure that the tiles are in a suitable condition to be tiled over. Cracked and broken tiles do not provide a suitable surface. Before installing the new tiles, you need to sand down the current tiles. Then you need to vacuum and wash down the surface, before leaving it to dry. Once the surface is dry, you need to use thin set to lay the new tiles.

Installing tiles on vinyl

It’s not easy to install ceramic tiles on vinyl. If you can avoid doing so, you should. If you are not able to remove the vinyl you should lay a backer board, to act as a new surface. This is the surface that you should fix the tiles to, using thin set.

These are the basics of installing tiles on different surfaces. Check out building materials services, to find the equipment and materials you need. Then, set aside a significant period of time, to make sure you do not have to rush to complete your tiling project.

Shopping With Groupon Online

Disclosure- This post was sponsored by Groupon. All opinions are my own. For more information, see “I Disclose”.

Shopping with Groupon is easy and can save you money. Groupon has already saved a lot of people tons of money- if you haven’t tried it, you should give it a go. Groupon has gained even more popularity as more and more establishments use the service and pass on some incredible savings to their customers. The way a Groupon works is that Groupon has offers which the customer pays for. These deals usually double the value of their money at the particular establishment, thus getting new customers in the establishment. If not double, it saves you money regardless, that’s just the average savings.  An example would be a cool new Japanese restaurant opens up and offers a $20 credit toward dinner. This saves you, who wants to get Japanese food anyway, or perhaps just like trying new places,significant savings and gets the restaurant new business. It also gives it exposure- maybe you (and thus others) had not heard of this place before, and now want to try it. When you try it, and like it, you become a regular customer. It’s a win-win.

There are tons of different types of stores with many coupons available from each. Some examples are Home Depot, Hertz(car rentals), Ebay, Lord and Taylor, Old Navy, AT&T, and Norton Antivirus- just a taste of the almost 9,000 stores with almost 80,000 coupons. There are a ton of options, you will certainly find coupons and savings that will be useful to you.

It is always nice to have a new “deals” site in your arsenal when online shopping, and Groupon should definitely be added to your favorites. You never know when that savings code to chip a little bit more off that final price could be found with just a few clicks.

How to Have a Stress-free Family Vacation in Orlando

Family vacation times can get hectic, even with the world’s best organizer at the helm. And with so much to see and do in Orlando, Florida, you might be wondering how you will manage with kids in tow and a long list of must-see places. The good news is that — since Orlando is a popular destination for families — many thousands have faced this dilemma. Here are some of the best tips and tricks from seasoned travelers on how to plan well and have a good time during your upcoming Orlando trip.
1. Use a vacation package.

Want to cut down on the hassle of booking a hotel and then making sure you have tickets for Walt Disney World? Westgate Orlando vacation packages offer this kind of convenience. Allowing you to save both on time, as their hotel is close to Disney world, as well as on money. Packages range from $59 to $199, including Disney tickets and a luxurious studio suite. Having your tickets in hand when arriving at Disney World will allow you to head for the gates right away without dealing with lines. And for those who want to see other attractions, Westgate Resorts has a package for SeaWorld as well as Universal Studios. Save yourself ticket hassle by booking package deals for these parks, too.
2. Plan for an extra night.

Can you and your crew experience the magic of Walt Disney World in one day? Yes, but only if you have arrived the night before. Flying to Orlando at the crack of dawn and hustling from the airport to the park is a recipe for tired and stressed out kids and parents. Get there the night before so you can fully relax and enjoy your day at Disney or whatever other amusement park you have booked.

3. Be reasonable.

With so much to do, it is easy to overbook your days. Vacation is supposed to be enjoyable. But if you feel like you are spending your time rushing from one attraction to the next, chances are high you are not finding this relaxing. It is okay to have a long list of nice to-do things. But also be realistic in what you can fit into each day without it exhausting you and overstimulating the kiddos. When you find yourself or your kids at the breaking point, pull back. Even if it means nixing an evening activity and replacing it with room service at your hotel. Regrouping when needed will allow you all to get a breather and recharge for round 2 or 3.

4. Pack your own drinks and snacks.

Being hungry and thirsty while at an amusement park and having to waste time standing in line for overpriced popcorn is no one’s idea of fun. Often kids will bug you about concession snacks that they will end up not eating. Or end up eating, but the sugar high will make them cranky and you crazy. The night before, hit up a supermarket and pick out carefully considered treats that your kid loves but that also aren’t too high in sugar content. Ditto for drinks. Pull out your pre-packed snacks and skip the lines for food. Spend time where it really counts–the attractions.
5. Include the family on the planning.

Heard of after-vacation blues? A common contributor to post-vacation depression is where someone complains that they were not able to do a ride or go to a location they wanted to go to. This particular complaint can be prevented by a little thoughtful planning. Have your kids come up with 2 must-do rides for each amusement park. This will relieve you of the pressure of feeling like you have to see and do everything. If you have done the things at the top of each child’s list, then you can consider your trip a success.

Must have Breastfeeding Products from Fair Haven Health

Disclosure- We received the below in order to facilitate this review. All opinions are our own and honest.

Breastfeeding can be tough at times, but very rewarding. With these great products from from the Milkies line from Fair Haven Health, providing Breastmilk should be no problem what so ever.

About Milkies (Fairhaven Health):

The mission at Fairhaven Health is to develop products designed to safely and naturally promote fertility, pregnancy wellness, and breastfeeding success. And for years now they’ve been achieving that important goal. From preconception through pregnancy and nursing, Fairhaven Health is there – every step of the way – to provide clinically-proven products to help you along your journey to parenthood. As a trusted leader in the field of reproductive health, their products are cooperatively developed and formulated by a diverse panel of medical experts – including doctors, ObGyns, nutritionists, and naturopaths. Noted fertility expert Amos Grunebaum, MD, plays a pivotal role in formulating their FertilAid, FertileCM, FertiliTea, and Pregnancy  Plus product lines.

About Nursing Blend Breastfeeding Supplement:

Nursing Blend is an all-natural dietary supplement that contains a blend of herbs that have been used for centuries by nursing mothers when a boost in breast milk supply is needed, including fenugreek and fennel seed. And, by providing a unique combination of whole fenugreek seed powder along with a concentrated fenugreek seed extract, Nursing Blend offers an equivalent dose of 2 grams of fenugreek in each daily dose. Nursing Blend also includes herbs that provide calming effects for mom and baby, including chamomile and anise.

The Nursing Blend is the only dietary supplement that combines herbal support for breast milk production with the vitamin and mineral support that nursing moms need to produce quality breast milk. Nursing Blend was scientifically-designed by doctors and nutritionists to specifically meet the nutritional needs of nursing mothers and their babies and to aid in milk production. In addition, Nursing Blend is endorsed by leading lactation specialist and MD, Dr. Kathleen Marinelli.

My Thoughts:

WOW, I absolutely love this amazing vitamin. I made it to the 7 month mark before I started noticing I wasn’t pumping near as much as I was pumping originally. I only had about 3 more months to go with pumping before I was off for the summer and wouldn’t need to pump anymore. I was very impressed with how it helped me maintain my supply as well as gave me the subtle boost that I was needing. I also liked that the vitamins truly made me feel better than the vitamins that I was taking before. I would highly recommend these amazing vitamins to anyone that is looking for a good boost and to maintain the supply that they already have.

About Fenugreek Dietary Supplement:

Fenugreek is an annual herb native to the Mediterranean region of the world. Fenugreek is used throughout the world as a culinary spice and has been used by women for centuries as a “galactagogue” – a natural product to increase production of breast milk. Fenugreek contains diosgenin, a plant-based estrogen, which has been shown to increase milk flow in lactating women to help support breast milk production.

Unlike other available Fenugreek supplements which can require taking up to 8 capsules per day, Fairhaven Health’s Fenugreek contains a unique blend of organic Fenugreek Seed Poweder, along with a concentrated Fenugreek Seed Powder, delivering a dose equivalent to 2000mg of standard fenugreek seed powder in just 2 vegetarian capsules each day.

My Thoughts: 

Since I have been taking the vitamin that already has the Fenugreek in it, I don’t take these on a daily basis, just on days that I notice that I have dipped a bit for various reasons. I am really impressed with this vitamin compared to other Fenugreek that I have taken in the past. This is a great vitamin to use and I know that it will benefit others just as it has benefited myself.

About Nursing Time Tea:

Nursing Time Tea is the all-natural herbal tonic designed to help nursing mothers increase their milk flow and soothe digestive unease of both mother and baby. Nursing can be problemeatic for many women, particularly in the beginning, and the herbal ingredients in Nursing Time Tea have been used for centuries to promote healthy lactation and bring quick relief to both mothers and colicky or “gassy” newborns.

Nursing Time Tea brings together a select array of safe and proven ingredients to aid nursing in three key ways: enhancing the quantity and quality of available milk; alleviating digestive complaints, including gas, indigestion and colic; and providing a rich spectrum of nutritive vitamins and minerals central to robust and healthy nursing.

My Thoughts:

I have really enjoyed this Tea a great deal. Through the cold months and when I was trying to get back to what I was producing I found it incredibly effective at it’s job. It tastes great, and I get to use my favorite tea mug since it is a loose tea.

Purchase:

If you are interested in purchasing one of these amazing products or checking out all the other amazing products from Milkies (Fairhaven Health), head on over to their website and find the perfect product for your stage of production!