Mattress Buying Secrets – Things Nobody Will Tell You

According to many people, the most comfortable place in the world is their bed. A cozy and soft textured mattress is just right for a lazy Sunday or a night after a tiring day. However, buying a mattress is not an easy job.

You cannot just go out and choose the best color as per your requirements to get the best mattress. You have to consider many things as mattresses are long term investment. You have to check if the selected one is durable and last for a long period.

Mattress Buying Secrets

Cheap rates

It is very important to know the season for buying the mattress. You have to communicate with the family and friends or research online to know the time when is the best time to buy the mattress at cheaper rates.

You will notice that the rates at mattresses season are very less in comparison to the rest of the year. So, do some research and buy the best for you to save lots of money.

Material is the key

Many people think that if you are paying more, then you must have the best sleep on the bed. However, it is not true. Yes! The main point lies here is to choose the materials that you will be comfortable to sleep on.

You can take the foam or water based. It entirely depends on the materials that you are happy with. So, forget about the brand and cost, just look at the material.

Bargain

Yes! Never act so classy, if you are buying a mattress for you. With proper negotiation, you can save quite an amount or at least get excellent offers. You can play with the creativity or communicate well to get the best rates to save your money. Never forget to check online websites offering deals and discounts.

Features

There are many other factors as well that you must consider while getting the perfect mattress. They are as follows:
Movement partition – You would prefer not to be exasperated by your accomplice moving around, or getting into or out of the bed.
Temperature – You need the surface of the bed to be same as your skin temperature. This is called thermoneutrality.
Edges bolster – You would prefer not to feel like you’re moving off the bed if you rest close to the edge.

Take trial

You must buy a mattress after touching and experiencing the texture of the mattress. Lay down on the mattress for few minutes to inspect the mattress. You can take as much time to see the softness, texture and other features of the mattress.

Read reviews

If you are buying online, you can’t check the mattress physically, so it is advised to read the customer’s and expert’s review for the mattress before purchasing it.

So, these 6 tips are very easy and beneficial to get the best mattress for you. So, this is very important to get all the info you need before shopping for a bed

from Feedster http://www.feedster.com/blog/zyanamorris/mattress-buying-secrets-things-nobody-will-tell-you/

Make Your Home a Perfect Place for Relaxation

What distinguishes a busy, uncomfortable home from a relaxing, welcoming abode? The truth is that the architecture of one’s home, and the interior design flourishes with which you choose to accent it, can make an enormous difference in how you feel when you finally unlock the front door and put your day behind you. In this article, we consider the effects of furniture, lighting,music and flow on your physical and mental spaces.

Furniture

From the plush surrounds of an overstuffed couch to the slender, back-supporting spine of an elegant mid-century modern chair, furniture not only occupies our space but also defines how we relate to it. Think about how you perceive a room with certain types of furniture, as, for example, an austere dining table and chair set. This room would make you want to behave politely and display good posture, whereas a room peppered with bean bags and oversize hanging lamps would encourage you to lie down and sprawl. The trick to choosing great, relaxing furniture is as much about visualizing how you would react to it as understanding what kind of effect you are trying to achieve. Placing automated Dreamwave massage chairs in a room will encourage you and your guests to stretch out and calmly reflect on your life, whereas importing a series of Eames chairs and a bookcase would encourage a more studied, intellectual vibe. Blending all of these pieces of furniture together would create a room of both mental and physical relaxation, a kind of sanctuary free from the rigors of daily life. Whatever furniture you are considering, always ask yourself this question: What do I find relaxing?

Create Ambiance with Lighting

First, keep in mind that sunlight is your friend. Do your best to take advantage of any and all natural lighting, choosing window treatments which allow you to let in plenty of sunlight.
Although most of us have very little control over the pre-existing structure of our homes, we can add a slew of accessories that enhance and filter the available light in a relaxing way. Consider the use of blinds and light-colored curtains: depending on how these are deployed, you can create a room that is bathed in sunlight or elegantly shaded from the noon-time sun. First, keep in mind that sunlight is your friend. Do your best to take advantage of any and all natural lighting, choosing window treatments which allow you to let in plenty of sunlight.
The material of the blinds can have an enormous effect on how the room “feels.” A set of dark wooden slatted blinds, for example, will absorb a great deal of light and create very precise, geometric beams during certain times of the day. At night, these wooden blinds will visibly function as an element of class and sophistication, making them perfect accessories for rooms used primarily for entertaining. Light colored curtains, on the other hand, are great ways to maintain your privacy while keeping a room light and airy. Curtains like these are exquisite additions to rooms where concentration and mental repose is desired. If you want to keep your living room light but conducive to relaxing, adding some of these curtains will help you feel as if you are in a clean, safe, and pleasant environment.

Music

According to Larissa Hall Carlson, an ayurvedic consultant at the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health “Peaceful rhythms can settle your nervous system, encouraging relaxation after a crazy day”.

All you need to create your sound system at your home spa is one laptop, wifi speakers and collection of relaxing music. Dr. David Lewis, the UK’s leading stress specialist, came to similar conclusions with his research, and even assembled a list of the top 10 most relaxing tunes.

Match your home’s sound track to your mood – or the state you want to be in.

Flow

Perhaps the most intangible of qualities, “flow” isn’t exactly egress, and it isn’t exactly feng shui either. Rather, flow is a very personal but quantifiable measurement that is particular to the placement of furniture, lighting accessories, and the physical walls of your home. To make this easier to visualize, imagine a living room that is chock full of couches. This wouldn’t be a comfortable room, despite the presence of multiple relaxing cushions, because it has no flow: it is blocked up with too many items. Likewise, an enormous, empty room with one lone chair isn’t relaxing for the opposite reason: there is too much space, and no organic pathway for navigating through the space. Creating a relaxing room is as much about the specific items of furniture and lighting accessories you choose as it is about understanding how to arrange them. Ultimately, to find the best flow, give yourself permission to rearrange the space periodically until you find a grouping that makes you feel at ease.

Remember that your home needs to be relaxing for you. The tips above are all general truths, but if you don’t incorporate your own personal tastes and styles your home will still just feel like a house. The style that one person finds most relaxing may seem a bit cold and bare to others, and that same person may find that a rustic country-style home feels too old-fashioned and cluttered for them to truly love it. Every person is different, so make sure to adapt things for your tastes and desires to make your house into the perfect haven for you.

from Feedster http://www.feedster.com/blog/twitter-epicninjadaboss/make-your-home-a-perfect-place-for-relaxation/

5 Fun Things to Do With Your Feet Off the Ground

There’s something to be said for staying well-grounded, but every now and then we all get the desire to do something a little more adventurous and “out there.” Specifically, we feel the need to pick our feet up off the ground and try something new.

The Benefits of Being Adventurous

When someone is described as “adventurous,” there are often negative connotations and stigmas attached. People tend to assume that adventurous people are disorganized, hyper, and compulsive. And while this can be true, there’s also plenty of evidence that shows adventurous people are physically and emotionally healthier than their peers.

Specifically, research has shown that a combination of specific traits makes a person more likely to be happy, successful, and satisfied with life. “These include novelty-seeking, persistence and self-transcendence,” says Jen Mueller of SparkPeople. “People who are persistent tend to have a ‘never give up’ attitude.  Even if things don’t turn out the way they planned, there’s always next time.”

Lindsay Holmes, Deputy Health Living Editor for The Huffington Post, has studied an enormous amount of research on this topic and is also quick to point out the benefits of embracing adventure.

“Research shows that people who partake in a variety of experiences are more likely to retain positive feelings than people who have fewer experiences, Time reported. Additionally, even the littlest experiences can have an impact on our joy — moments like a spontaneous laugh with a loved one or an encounter with a friendly dog,” Holmes writes.

See, the great thing about being adventurous is that the benefits vary by individual. One person may find a new perspective on life after trying something new, while another individual may enhance their physical stamina and feel the urge to live a healthier lifestyle. The benefits are numerous and you’d be wise to discover how a little adventure could impact the trajectory of your life.

Five Opportunities to Get Off the Ground

There’s something to be said for having your feet firmly planted on the ground. But the problem is, we feel safe and comfortable with our feet on the ground. If you really want to stretch yourself and try something new, then you need to take that safety net out from under your feet and get off the ground.

Here are a few opportunities that will allow you to do just that:

• Helicopter Tours

The majority of people have been on an airplane before, but very few people ever get the opportunity to ride in a helicopter. That’s why you should jump at the opportunity, should it ever arise.

In many cities and destinations around the world – including the Grand Canyon – you can take helicopter tours. These high-flying adventures give you a completely different perspective and allow you to see the world in a different way. And since helicopters are smaller and navigate at steeper angles, your stomach will enjoy the occasional roller coaster-worthy drop.

• Parasailing

If you’re looking to experience the world’s coastlines like a bird, then parasailing may be the activity for you.

As Expedia says, “Even the most mild-mannered landlubber can soar to the heavens effortlessly and float hundreds of feet above the water, enjoying the kind of views and serenity that was once the domain of seagulls and eagles.” That’s a more eloquent way of saying parasailing is a ton of fun.

The great thing about parasailing is that it’s totally safe and always scenic. Most rides last 15 or 20 minutes and you’re safely brought back down to the ground. There are thousands of parasailing outfitters all around the world, with some of the best experiences happening in exotic locations.

• Ropes Courses

Have you ever tried a high ropes course? Perfect for the entire family, high ropes courses provide safe, yet exciting opportunities to get your heart pumping.

With rock climbing walls, balance beams, swings, tight ropes, nets and more, ropes courses feature a variety of challenging elements that will test your heart and determination. Survive a difficult course and you’ll leave feeling much more confident in yourself. There are thousands of courses around the world and you should be able to find one or two in your own backyard.

• Outdoor Rock Climbing

Most people have tried indoor rock climbing before. And while there’s nothing wrong with rock climbing at your child’s ninth birthday party, you can’t let your experiences with commercial indoor climbing prevent you from trying a little outdoor climbing. They are two totally different sports – with the latter being exponentially more invigorating and rewarding.

With outdoor rock climbing, you get to see incredible sites, navigate challenging courses and occasionally encounter risky decisions that require you to think fast. As a result, this sport provides just enough adrenaline (with a rope to catch you, should you fall).

• Horseback Riding

If heights aren’t your thing, but you still want to get your feet off the ground and enjoy an adventurous and exciting activity, then horseback riding could be just what the doctor ordered.

If you’ve never been horseback riding on an actual trail before, then you don’t know what you’re missing. Horses are regal and powerful creatures that possess physical stamina unlike many other animals. But when you put a bridle on the horse and use a variety of commands with your mouth, feet, and hands, it’s possible to control even the slightest movements. This sense of power and control can totally change your outlook on life.

Where Will You Go?

Where will your adventurous spirit take you? Sometimes, the most fun and heart-pounding activities take place off the ground with your feet in the air. From helicopter rides to rock climbing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Gather a group of friends, plan an excursion, and push yourself to the limits. We bet you’ll learn something about yourself that you never knew before.

from Feedster http://www.feedster.com/blog/larryalton/5-fun-things-to-do-with-your-feet-off-the-ground/

6 Jobs That You May Not Have Known Existed

Deep down inside of us, there’s a yearning to do something meaningful that not only helps other people but also makes us feel happy and alive. And while you may spend hours of your time pecking away at a keyboard in a cubicle, daydreaming of becoming an influential celebrity or world leader, chances are you aren’t the next Miley Cyrus or Barrack Obama. But what if there was another job out there that could make you happy?

Six Jobs You Don’t Hear Much About

It’s easy to believe that you have to accept a traditional job as a businessperson, banker, teacher, police officer, etc. While there’s nothing wrong with these careers – in fact, there’s much to be lauded – not all of us are cut out for mainstream professions. Instead, you may want something a bit more unique. Well, we can bet you didn’t know these jobs existed.

1. Blimp Pilot

We’ve all seen those massive blimps flying high above sports stadiums and other events, but have you ever wondered who’s in control? A blimp pilot, of course! And while there isn’t a ton of demand for blimp pilots, it’s a very real occupation.

“To be a blimp pilot you first need a private pilot’s license which involves up to 70 flying hours,” blimp pilot Mark Finney points out. “You then need to get a commercial pilot’s license, either fixed wing or helicopter. For this you need to be 18, have passed a stringent medical, be able to speak English and then do a training course which involves up to 200 flying hours.” You then need between 100 and 120 hours of blimp-specific training.

2. Professional Snuggler

Are you a fan of snuggling, spooning, and holding people close? You may be able to make a few bucks off of your passion for human touch. In a handful of cities around the world – including Madison, Wisconsin of all places – there are professional snugglers who provide “intimate touch therapy” to help reduce clients’ stress levels. Their goal is to prove that non-sexual touch can be an excellent source of stress relief.

According to the manager of the Snuggle House in Madison, “Even just a hug for a couple of seconds can release the oxytocin in your body, in your brain, which has powerful effects to reduce stress.”

3. Traveling Fine Art Auctioneer

A lot of people are looking for a job that allows them to travel the world while doing something enjoyable. If that resonates with you, then you may want to look into becoming a traveling fine art auctioneer.

Park West Gallery, one of the largest art dealers in the world, offers positions aboard its cruise ships. What’s it like to live and work onboard a cruise ship auctioning off fine art? “Visit exotic ports of call, enjoy cruise ship amenities, and develop an expertise in art. Make new friends and establish lifelong connections all over the world,” Park West Gallery explains.

4. Gumologist

Like gum? Can you walk and chew gum at the same time? Okay, you don’t have to be able to do the latter, but gum enthusiasts may be excited to learn that there’s such a thing as a “gumologist.”

“Everyone wants my job,” says Sue McNamara, a gum taster at Cadbury Schweppes Science and Technology Center. “I have lawyer friends who tell me they want my job, and I’m definitely the most popular mom in the neighborhood.”

See, gum may seem like a frivolous item you throw in your basket while waiting in the supermarket checkout line, but there’s actually a lot that goes into developing a tasty stick of chewing gum. The average piece of gum has as many as 70 different ingredients and a handful of unique flavors. Gumologists must be able to succinctly convey their findings so that the manufacturers can tweak accordingly.

5. Personal Shopper

Do you love shopping? Could you spend hours each day sifting through clothing racks or walking down supermarket aisles? Well, you may have a future as a personal shopper.

“To be a personal shopper, you have to be able to shop until you drop and then get up and keep shopping,” Fox Business explains. “There is no formal schooling required to be a personal shopper, although a background as a retail sales associate may be helpful. Energy, enthusiasm and patience will serve a personal shopper well.”

Becoming a personal shopper is all about connections. You aren’t necessarily going to see a bunch of listings online. These jobs tend to be offered and accepted via word of mouth. Let it be known that you love shopping, and who knows, maybe you can make it a profession?

6. Professional Gamer

If video games are your thing, the future may be bright. While spending hours a day playing video games was considered taboo or lazy years ago, recent developments and the popularization of e-sports leagues means there’s actually a market for your skills and interests.

It’s not exactly the most glamorous job – and it requires a lot of time and repetition – but with massive competitions at events like Major League Gaming and Intel Extreme Masters, some professionals are making millions of dollars per year.

Find a Job That Makes You Happy

At the end of the day, you need to find a job that makes you happy. If the nine-to-five grind and a stable 401(k) don’t sound like your cup of tea, then try to find something a bit more unique – like one of these six professions.

from Feedster http://www.feedster.com/blog/larryalton/6-jobs-that-you-may-not-have-known-existed/

3 Ways to Make More Money While Retiring Abroad

Many people are opting to retire outside of the United States where the cost of living is lower and the health care is more affordable. While it might be cheaper to retire in Ecuador or Thailand, there are still costs that your savings or pension might not cover. Here are three ways to make money while retired without putting in many hours.

Rent Your House Long Term

If you own your house and feel reluctant to sell it just yet, consider turning it into a rental property and making money from it. You can either rent it fully furnished or clear out most of your furniture and let the new tenants move in. This is a great option for retirees who have relocated to Central America, where the cost of living is lower and they can live comfortably off the rent generated in the United States alone.

As far as landlord responsibilities, you will want to appoint a property management company that will hire contractors for repairs and answer any questions that your tenants have. They will even provide background and credit checks before approving a new tenant so you know your house is safe. Plan to give at least 10 percent of the rent to the management company for their services.

You’ll also need to consider how you will get paid in your host country. Tenants can easily transfer money to Mexico, or wherever you happen to be enjoying your retirement. This makes it easy for you to access your income in the local currency.

Let Your New Home Become a Vacation Home

Image via Flickr by Jeda Villa Bali

Just because you’re retired doesn’t mean you want to stay in one place! Many people retire to parts of the world they want to explore —like South America and Asia — and then spend weeks at a time visiting nearby countries that were out of reach when they were living in the United States.

If you’re planning to continue traveling, consider listing your new home on Airbnb. This is a great way to cover the cost of plane tickets to other countries so you can travel without blowing your savings. You should also consider renting or buying a house with an attached guest house or more rooms than you need so you can rent it to travelers all year round. This gives you an opportunity to connect with nomads on the road and form bonds with other travelers.

Pick Up Freelance Work and Control Your Hours

Many retirees don’t mind working; they just want the flexibility to control when they work and how often. There are many opportunities to take on digital freelance work.

Even if you don’t want to work digitally, there are freelance opportunities in the country of your retirement. English tutors are in demand around the world, and retirees can work with students in the neighborhood to improve their grammar and pronunciation for a small fee. For only a few hours a week, you could earn enough to cover your grocery and transportation bills.

Retirement is supposed to be your golden years and your time to relax. Don’t spend it working long hours and worrying about money. Enjoy your time abroad and explore these unique sources of income.

from Feedster http://www.feedster.com/blog/sambradford/3-ways-to-make-more-money-while-retiring-abroad/

Tips for Students Who Want to Study in Sweden

Sweden is a wonderful country, and it is famous for many things. It was a place where some of the most vicious warmongering people were located, also known as Vikings, and a bit ironically it is a country that hasn’t been involved in any kind of war for the past 200 years.

It gave us Absolute Vodka, it gave us Ikea, it gave us H&M along with some people who are really famous in the entertainment industry, like the Skarsgard father and brothers, and in the 70’s the band ABBA. So, we can all learn a thing or two from Sweden or better yet go there and become college students.

If you wish to spend your college years in Sweden, then you have chosen a perfect country to spend this chapter of your life. Here are some tips that can help you out and point you in the right direction, in order to fulfill your goals.

See what they offer and choose a program

Sweden has a lot to offer in terms of bachelor’s programs, master’s programs and PhD programs, so you need to choose which one you want and/or can apply for. A wise thing to do is to visit Universityadmissions.se and see the programs they have in both English and Swedish, and when it comes to the bachelor’s and master’s, they have nearly a thousand options.

So, find out what each program is all about and whether it corresponds to your aspirations, and see if you can enroll. The programs will start during autumn 2017, but the available programs are to be listed in December 2016, so there will be plenty of time to choose.  

Prepare your documents and apply for visa

On the website mentioned in the previous section you can also find guidelines on how to apply for a particular program and which tests you need to take. So, you need to go through these instructions thoroughly, since you might be required to take test and prove your English proficiency.

Also you will have to apply for visa and you might need to send a motivational letter to the university, depending on the program you are applying for. It would be good to have the letter or any kind of application papers translated. You can find an agency that can translate from or to the Swedish language, and have them prepare your papers.

Find a place to stay

Clearly, in order to study in Sweden you need to have a place to stay. Since, it is going to last for a long time, it is inconvenient to stay at a hotel, hostel or to rent a whole place. You need to see what your options are as a student and find the most optimal solution.

Perhaps you can find a family that is willing to take you in over the course of your studies, for a reasonable financial compensation, since this is the most budget-friendly option. Alternatively, you can find people to rent an apartment with, and once the expenses are divided, the whole thing won’t drain your budget.

Apply for a scholarship

If you are planning to apply for master studies and if you are from a developing country, then there are good chances of receiving a scholarship. Of course, even if you don’t fit into this category, you can always try, since nothing bad can come of it, considering you can only save money if things go in your favor. The application period for scholarships starts in December and ends on January 16th, so there is plenty of time for you to apply.   

Find someone to show you the ropes

Lastly, you need to find someone who can show you around, because what’s the point of going abroad and experiencing another culture without at least having one friend by your side? Since, we all use social networks, it’s quite easy to find and reach out to someone who can be helpful.

All you need to do is find a Facebook page of the university or faculty you are applying for, and find one of the page members. You can also find someone from your country who is applying the same way as you, and you can travel together.

I wish you the best of luck during your studies, and I am sure you will have a memorable time in Sweden.

from Feedster http://www.feedster.com/blog/ivandseo/tips-for-students-who-want-to-study-in-sweden/

What to Know When Switching Your College Major

Congratulations, you have made the tough decision to switch your college major! But while you may be excited, you should also be aware that with this big decision comes big change. Here are a few things to think about now that you have decided to make the switch…

You have some catching up to do
If your school is relatively small, you may have the “first day of school” feelings all over again now that you have switched majors. Think about it: you are entering classes that some students may have been taking together for a couple of years now. While it can be slightly intimidating to be the “new kid,” think about it as an opportunity to meet new people. Strike up conversations with those around you to get some study partners lined up for the class. Let them know you’re new to the major and excited to learn more about it; they may even have some insight to share. And of course, always remember to introduce yourself to your professors as well!

Your academic advisor is a powerful source of support
Your academic advisor may just become your new best friend. Remember that an academic advisor can be your go-to person for advice on your new major and classes, as he or she should be well versed in what’s required of you and what opportunities to look out for. Be a familiar face and build a rapport with your trusted advisor. Feel free to drop in to ask any questions you may have at any point in time — you won’t be sorry!

Challenges may arise…
The reasons you decided to switch college majors are truly unique to you. But at the end of the day, switching majors can definitely be tough. You may have to make many adjustments in order to try and have a smooth transition. From the type of studying you need to do to how you take notes in class, you are looking at an entirely new ball game. A new major means new classes, new professors, and some willingness to get into the groove of things again. So, what does this mean? It means work: hard work at best. You are going to have to fully immerse yourself in your new major in order to be successful. Be calm and try your absolute best. You will get back into the swing of things if you just stick with it. Always keep in the back of your mind the reasons you had for originally switching to this major and it will help to keep you on track.

…But it can be fun
Hopefully, one of the main reasons you switched majors is because you truly enjoy this new field of study. This is an exciting time and a new major can be an invigorating experience full of opportunity. Make sure you absorb all of the information and experiences possible during this transition. Take advantage of opportunities to further immerse yourself in your major. For example, become involved in a business fraternity if you are now a business student, join the geology club if you are now pursuing geology, or even pursue an internship in your new field of study to get some hands-on experience. You may be surprised at the amount of opportunity available to you.

You may develop a new way of thinking
A new major means exposure to new topics, problems, theories, and questions. This new major will force you to start expanding your mind and learning about new subjects. This is what school is all about; welcome it with open arms. Be prepared to think differently and take whatever is thrown your way with grace.
Jenny Modlisz is a contributing writer for Varsity Tutors, a live learning platform that connects students with personalized instruction to accelerate academic achievement.

from Feedster http://www.feedster.com/blog/varsitytutors/what-to-know-when-switching-your-college-major/

Spokesmodels like Ashley Graham Know that Plus Sizes are In

Plus size model Ashley Graham talks about changing a woman’s mindset with body positivity. She mentions how in her past, she struggled to simply look at her reflection – feeling all kinds of negativity until one day, she came to an epiphany. She decided to make a conscious effort to view herself in a more positive light, succumbing less often to crippling societal pressures and standards of beauty. While admitting that it wasn’t a stress-free task, she also didn’t expect to change the modeling industry when she began her career. It became clear that Graham’s message was something many women both wanted and needed to hear. Graham’s dramatic moment happened in February of 2016, as she posed as the first size 16 to ever be displayed on a Sports Illustrated cover. In this October’s Self Magazine, “plus-size” model Ashley Graham is featured on yet another cover – because every day women are interested in seeing body types that reflect their own. Ashley is an advocate for the latest trends in plus size swimwear for women and even has her own line of plus size swimwear that she proudly endorses.

Do you ever come across those articles in magazines at the start of the New Year about getting in shape, about preparing that summer body for the hottest new suits? But when you browse through that magazine, it seems the only women featured are under a size 2? It’s no wonder that feelings of disappointment, sadness and rage start flooding your entire body, but don’t feel discouraged just yet. If you’re larger than a size 2, you have options too, and your most reliable source is the internet. Now, where to start searching? Finding where to go when you don’t know where to go can be daunting. Fear not, websites such as swimsuitsforall.com specialize in plus size swimwear and through their handy size guide starting at size 8 and going all the way up to 34, you’re bound to find the right fit for your body. What’s more is that for limited time only, you could save 30% or more site wide! Of course it is always a plus shopping for suits online because there is the guarantee that you can buy all year long.

Before deciding on your next bathing suit, the best way to get yourself prepared is by determining your body shape. Don’t arbitrarily hide your figure with just any one-piece or plain white t-shirt – flatter your curves and display your body proudly! Because everyone is shaped differently, what works for one woman won’t necessarily compliment your body. For an apple-shaped body, focus on the legs and have slightly more coverage in the bust area – the way to go is a one-piece. For pear-shaped bodies, give your bust and upper body area some love – the way to go is a tankini, skirtini, or one-piece; these choices accentuates the top but hide the lower body. If you have a large bust, comfort and support should be the primary focus – halter tops with thick straps and underwire are a great choice; the A-line effect from halter tops gives off a slimming effect.

from Feedster http://www.feedster.com/blog/michaelsanduso/spokesmodels-like-ashley-graham-know-that-plus-sizes-are-in/

Top 10 Reasons to Take Karate Lessons

Martial arts are a great thing to do, but a lot of people have trouble understanding why they should take them. Karate is among the most popular, but here are our top ten reasons why you should definitely consider karate for yourself or someone else.

10. Learn Discipline

Martial arts take discipline and karate is no different. You’ll learn the meaning of dedication and working hard, which will translate to other things.

9. Stay In Shape

Staying in shape by walking on the treadmill or lifting weights can get monotonous and boring. With karate, it’s a fun, outside of the box way to get in shape.

8. Learn to Defend Yourself

Karate is a brilliant striking art and is highly effective and defeating foes with hand-to-hand combat. By learning it, you’ll be able to defend yourself from a lot of precarious scenarios. Without a doubt, make karate a part of your self-defense regiment.

7. Preserve Tradition

Karate is a Japanese fighting art that is thousands of years old. By training in it, you’re going to learn an art that has existed for many generations. This will ensure that you’re preserving old traditions and giving it to your future generations to also learn as well.

6. Meet Others

There are lots of great people that do karate. By learning it, you’ll be able to meet and train the art with these individuals as well. Training with others is one of the best ways to become better at the art itself as well.

5. Have Fun

Training a martial art is a lot of fun. Unlike other martial arts, you get to punch and kick, which makes it very exciting to learn how to do. Without a doubt, you’ll be quickly addicted to the fun and enjoyment that comes with karate.

4. Train Others

If you become good enough, you can teach others karate, and this means that you’ll be passing the skill onto others.

3. De-Stress and Relax

Martial arts are great for reducing stress and calming down. This might be one of the best reasons to train karate, period.

2. Wear a Cool Uniform

Lots of people will confirm that the karate Gi uniform is just really cool and fun to wear. By training, you’ll be able to have the privilege of wearing it!

1. Earn a Black Belt

If you train hard and remain dedicated to it, you could eventually get a black belt in karate, which is an amazing achievement.

from Feedster http://www.feedster.com/blog/mike-rhesus/top-10-reasons-to-take-karate-lessons/

What is supply chain management?

If you work in logistics, you understand how important it is to keep track of everything in your workspace. If one or two little things are completely out of place, the entire operation from top to bottom is at risk of failing. Because of this, you need to ensure that you not only keep a firm handle on the operation itself, but you also need to understand the concept of supple chain management. This is not only a generalized term that many people have opinions as far as what works best, but there are also tangible things you should keep in mind.

Having the Right Personnel

First and foremost, it’s absolutely vital that you get the best personnel on the job if you’re an investment company interested in supply chain management with financing support and risk participation. Way too many people take the time to ignore monitoring products being shipped as well as products being imported. If you work at a warehouse, for example, you need to make sure that you’re on top of your game. Any little slippage can completely throw things off course, and that is a major problem if you’re serious about making an impact in this environment. Without question, this is perhaps the most important thing to worry about.

Engaging People Rapidly

When you run the supply chain itself, it’s critical that you engage with very important people from time to time. It’s very common that a lot of novice operators are going to totally ignore what goes on when managing the supply chain. A lot of people take the time to monitor items being shipped, but at the same time, they ensure that whenever an item is shipped that it’s marked as shipped. This has a lot to do with staying on top of your inventory, which might be among the most important things in supply chain management, period.

Latest and Greatest Tracking Technology

When monitoring when objects come in and out of the warehouse, you need to ensure that your tracking technology is top notch. Not only do you need to ensure that you have GPS sensors indicating when things ship and leave, but you also need to make sure that you yourself are accounting for items that are picked, packed, and ultimately shipped to their destinations. Regardless of your rank on the company, if you’re involved in logistics, there is absolutely nothing more important than supply chain management. Once you realize that, you’ll never have to worry about mistakes ever again.

from Feedster http://www.feedster.com/blog/mike-rhesus/what-is-supply-chain-management/

Handcrafted Wood Furniture Completes Your Office

Every room has specific needs for the furniture used in it and the office is no exception. The pieces you choose need to be functional, but beauty and versatility are also important elements. It shouldn’t be a dreary, utilitarian environment — it should fill you with pride and inspiration. Whether it’s your study, home office, or your workplace, this is where you’re at your best, and your furniture should reflect that. Hand made wood desks and bookcases can provide the functionality you need and the beauty you crave.

When it comes to furnishing your office, you can’t go wrong with materials like oak, cherry, maple, or pine. Your desk is a powerful focal point, not only the first thing your visitors will notice but a place you’re going to be spending a great deal of time. Match it with your bookcase or cabinets and make a signature statement – a coherent collection creates an atmosphere that’s impossible to ignore. These two pieces, in particular, are simply too important to leave to the big box manufacturers, because before you know it, everyone else will have the same collection. You can add a touch of the personal and a completely unique, elegant look by turning to custom furniture makers like Toronto’s Woodcraft. They offer dozens of gorgeous office collections (in addition to beds, dining tables, etc.), and they frequently cooperate with customers on completely personalized and unique projects. Just because you’re working doesn’t mean you can’t surround yourself with furnishings that reflect your individual style.

The strength and durability of wood make it a great material that can last for decades, even centuries, handed down from one generation to another. Furniture built with quality materials and an expert finish is sturdy as well as resistant to dents and scratches; therefore, it can withstand your workload day after day. If you’re looking for more than just office furniture, but something that will stay with you for the rest of your life and in your family even longer, get something that’s truly worth holding onto, like hand made furniture at Woodcraft.

The point of ordering “custom made” furniture is that you get to decide what kind of piece you get; it means taking a model and deciding whether you want it made out of oak, pine, cherry, or maple, and how it will be stained. Since hues vary greatly from extremely pale to very deep, rich tones, the options are only limited by your imagination. Different materials have different qualities such as hardness, natural colour, and natural knots such as those one would find in wormy maple. These characteristics ensure that every piece is tailored to its specific use and desired look.

When you’re out shopping for a new collection for your office, be sure to purchase from a reputable company that is well established and dedicated to creating elegant furniture with only the highest quality materials. Companies like Toronto’s Woodcraft value their customers by offering top-of-the-line extras like white glove delivery across North America.

Your office can be as personal, attractive, and uniquely styled as any room in your home, whether it’s your home study or your workplace. Your work space should have a character that reflects you; your mood, your position, and the environments in which you like to work. There is even evidence that when you have more control over your work space, you are possibly more productive. Don’t wait any longer, now’s the time to update your office.

from Feedster http://www.feedster.com/blog/michaelsanduso/handcrafted-wood-furniture-completes-your-office/

Are You Ready For Influencer Marketing?

The landscape of digital marketing keeps evolving and leaves those who refuse to adapt behind. Influencer marketing has been a buzzword in the marketing niche that has incredible implications for the future of marketing. The way it works is rather than marketing directly to the consumer you hire an influencer in an industry to do the marketing for you. This has made it more profitable than ever to have a website with quite a lot of traffic or to be considered a thought leader in a specific area. Content marketing and social media marketing go hand in hand with influencer marketing as an influencer can reach their followers or readers on their blog or social media accounts.

Do You Know Your Audience?

There are some companies that are still trying to figure out who their main demographic of customers is going to be. These companies should hold off on influencer marketing as paying an influencer that doesn’t reach the target demographic can be seen as a waste of money. After a few successful quarters of content and social media marketing, it will be a bit more clear on who you are going to want to target. Once you have identified the demographic that you want to reach then it is time to find an influencer that will help the company convert.

Establish What You Want To Do

There are plenty of goals that influencer marketing can allow a company to accomplish. Setting clear goals is important as vague goals will not let the company strategize in an efficient way. If the goal is to convert more sales on the website, then set a quantitative goal. If the goal is brand recognition then analyzing social media followers as well as mentions can be a way to measure this. For example, if you want people to try a new product that is ideal for mothers then reaching out to a popular mommy blogger asking for a review would be a great place to start.

Find a Platform That Works For You

With the emergence of the influencer and the success of influencer marketing, many companies have stepped up to provide services and platforms that assist businesses and social media influencers in finding each other and developing productive relationships that allow them to grow their respective brands. The influencer marketing platform that a company chooses is a huge decision as it could make or break a campaign, and similarly important is how the platform is used. Built-in analytics can help you track the effectiveness and ROI associated with an influencer or a campaign, just as the platform itself allows for better management and communication in real-time. Better still, as the technique continues to evolve, many influencer platforms have evolved to specialize in particular industries, with advantageous results for their campaigns.

Is Your Content Creation Up to Par?

The piece of content that you give to an influencer has to be high quality. Even those with the most clout in certain industries cannot attract readers with a stale piece of content. The shares that will be generated via social media from an incredible piece of content can drive traffic for months or even years to come. The content medium that is chosen should be in line with what the potential customers would like. In the web design field, an infographic could be the best option while an interactive piece of content might be perfect for those industries that some people would consider dull. Those companies that think that the same old spun piece of content in the hands of an influencer will convert will be sorely disappointed. Regardless of who publishes the content or talks about it, the content itself will have to sell your brand as well as its story.

from Feedster http://www.feedster.com/blog/admin/are-you-ready-for-influencer-marketing/

Mattress Hygiene For Peaceful Sleep Anytime

Mattress is covered with a clean bed sheet, which is changed frequently. However, this is not just enough because you will be surprised to find the amount of dust buildup and mites harboring inside, when you start cleaning the mattress. Mattress needs to be cleaned because of the following reason.

• It helps to maintain healthy air quality in the bedroom
• Common allergic problems like eczema and respiratory issues due to mites and dirt gets avoided
• Build up of stains and odors can be taken care off
• Proper hygiene spells stress free sleep

Steps to keep mattress clean

Keeping mattress dry – spilling, cleaning solutions, and body perspiration all add dampness to the mattresses. Thus, the risk of breeding mold and others increases. Therefore, after cleaning, dry it well is important.

Wash mattress cover – Mattress cover needs to be cleaned regularly just like the bed sheets. If your mattress has no cover to protect it, then buy one of good quality.

Vacuum – Mattress needs to be vacuumed regularly, every month on both sides. Vacuum helps to remove the accumulated dirt, dust, hair, mites and dead skin cells. This can all irritate allergies causing poor sleep. Use clean hand attachments in your vacuum cleaner to reach into each and every nook and corner of the mattress.

Flip the mattress – Rotate the mattress twice in a year, so that you don’t sleep on the same side. In this way, the mattress remains even on both ends, and thus allows removing the trapped dust.

Air the mattress – Mattress needs to be aired, after two to three months. This prevents the formation of mould. When it is sunny, place the mattress outside, this even helps to get rid of lingering odor from the mattress.

Buy mattress protector – It is a worthy investment because mattress protector saves it from stains, spills and even keeps dirt and dust from reaching inside the mattress.

Deodorize the mattress

In summer, you tend to perspire more, so your king or queen memory foam mattress can get smelly. Mattress cannot be washed, so the best solution is to deodorize and freshen it. Soda-bi-carbonate is the best material that soaks the moisture and eliminates stubborn odors from sweat, dirt, and grimes.

How to deodorize?

• Take 1 cup of soda-bi-carbonate
• Sift it onto the mattress evenly
• Allow it to rest there for half an hour
• Use a hand attachment and vacuum it

For bad smelling mattress, add some drops of essential oil to the soda-bi-carbonate, prior sifting it on the mattress.

If it is a dry day then prop the mattress outside for a few hours or allow it to stand in the bedroom, but with open doors and windows.

How to eliminate mattress stains?

Tannin or greasy stains can be caused due to occasional dropping of beverage, food, sweat, urine, vomit, blood, and other body fluids.

Clean greasy stains quickly

It is best to get stains cleaned, when they are fresh. Grab a cotton damp cloth. Blot the stain gently. With dry cloth dab it gently and pick up the moisture. Never use rotating motion because this can push the stain deeper and around, so pat the stain lightly.

Next step is the use kitchen ingredients like –

• Salt
• Soda-bi-carbonate
• Water

How to use:

• Mix 2 tablespoon salt and drip some water droplets to form a paste
• Apply this paste smoothly onto the stained spot using a dry cloth
• Leave it for 20 minutes to dry, before brushing off
• Use cool and damp cloth to get rid of excess paste
• Allow to dry thoroughly, using a hair dryer on low setting or switch on the fan

You can even buy stain remover sprays from online stores but make sure to follow the instructions carefully or you can damage the mattress more.

Doctors strongly advocate patients suffering from allergic reaction to scrub their mattresses frequently. It’s common for people suffering from allergic reaction to face their worst attacks at night while sleeping on dust mites ridden mattresses. Therefore, by reducing contact to those allergens, people can reduce the number of allergy attacks, which sometimes might even trigger major health issues.

 

from Feedster http://www.feedster.com/blog/zyanamorris/mattress-hygiene-for-peaceful-sleep-anytime/

Three Ways to Increase the Lifespan of Your Roof

Everyone that lives in the Toronto area understands how drastically the weather can change from season to season. This is why our homes are built specifically to withstand the harsh winters that Canada has, as well as the incredibly hot summers. Your contractor and architects should have carefully crafted a home that will last you decades or even centuries, and one of the most important areas of the home that they will have considered is the roof. When it comes to keeping residents safe and comfortable, the roof should be a top priority.

It is important to keep the roof of the home looking and functioning great; however, it can be something that many people overlook while they live in their home. According to roofcalc.org, the average medium-quality flat roof replacement costs just under $9000. While this is affordable compared to other roofing styles, it is still an expenditure that many people want to avoid. Here are 3 ways to increase the overall lifespan of your roof.

1. Clean it – This one seems extremely obvious; however, you would be surprised at how many people keep putting off the simple act of cleaning their roof until it is too late. The moisture, leaves, and debris that can build up on your roof can have a noticeable effect on it. Regular cleaning should greatly expand the lifespan of your roof.

2. Insulation – Most people just associate insulation with protecting the inside of their home. It can actually go a long way towards improving your roof as well. This is because a well-insulated roof will keep heat from staying in the attic and under the roof for too long, which can have a disastrous effect on the lifespan of your roof. If you are unsure of the type of insulation you have in your attic, consult a qualified roofer such as Professional Roofers, which is located in the GTA. Proper insulation is something that will benefit the rest of your home as well, so check your insulation today! Professional Roofers offer free consultations and estimates, so you really have nothing to lose.

While we’re on the topic of heat damaging your roof, you should also be certain that your attic, or the crawlspace under your roof, is properly ventilated. Good insulation is ineffective without good ventilation – a proper ventilation system will prevent hot air from being trapped under your roof and damaging the shingles or tiles on it.

3. Regular Inspections – You should have a professional roofing company inspect your home on a regular basis. It may be a good idea to have them come and inspect it after any big storm rolls through your neighborhood. Many roofing warranties require the homeowner to get the roof inspected on a semi-regular basis. It is important to have your roof inspected at least once every year or two.

These are three great methods that you can use to extend the lifespan of your roof. They may seem obvious to some, but many residents of the Toronto area neglect to do these simple things on a regular basis. The roof is one of the most important aspects of a home, but it is also one of the most susceptible areas of your home to damage when it comes to weather and natural disasters.

from Feedster http://www.feedster.com/blog/michaelsanduso/three-ways-to-increase-the-lifespan-of-your-roof/

5 Practical Off-Road Driving Tips That Elevate the Whole Experience

Off-road driving is a passionate hobby that many people enjoy. However, to make the whole experience flawless, it is necessary to think of a variety of problems that might occur while you are off the beaten path. These practical tips will prepare you well for the off-road adventure you are planning.

Analyzing the terrain

Terrain analysis is one of the first things you should start doing. Once you are off road, things tend to change as you cover a lot of ground. You are going to face hills, dirt, mud, dust, sand or water. All these things require preparation in your vehicle’s equipment and the way you drive. This is why scanning the terrain that you are going to cover is necessary.

Depending on the type of terrain, pick regular time intervals when you are going to stop and get out of the vehicle to take a look at the terrain that awaits you. Not performing this might lead you into a situation where you are going to get stuck and lose time.

For example, when you run into water, always make sure to get out of the car and measure the depth with a long stick or a wooden branch you find around your location. Or, if you run across mud, prepare to speed up before it to gain momentum. Regularly perform terrain analysis and you are going to stay safe on the road at all times.

Prepare the right gear

Once you are before an obstacle, make sure that you pick the right gear for tackling it. It is not only going to make it easy for you to go on through the dirt road, it is going to help you never get stuck. Different types of situations require different gear usage as well as different driving styles.

A general tip that works great is to immediately switch to all wheel or 4×4 wheel drive. Once you are in a tricky situation, changing differentials is not going to do much good, but if you enter the situation prepared with an already locked differential on all wheels, you are going to pass over an obstacle with ease.

Include supporting gear in your inventory

No matter how great of a driver you are, getting stuck in a tricky situation is something that all off-road drivers face from time to time. This is why it is necessary to always keep the right supporting equipment with you at all times.

For example, make sure to include the rough floor mat for emergency situations when you simply need more traction. A much better option that is going to get you out of being stuck, no matter if alone or with someone, is a towing strap. The perfect width for the strap is 2 inches and all you have to do is to tie it around the vehicle’s frame or a two hook.

If you are always traveling with someone that is all you need, but if you are more of a lone wolf, having your own electric winch is going to be enough to get you out of a variety of conditions.

Lower your tire pressure

Driving on hard surfaces such as asphalt requires higher tire pressure for better fuel economy and improve your tire life. However, when it comes to off-roading, it is much better to have lower pressure in your tires. Remember not to deflate your tires too much, as they might go flat while you are in the middle of nowhere.

The main reason why you should deflate your tires a little bit is traction. The lower the pressure, the higher the tire contact with the ground surface is going to be, resulting in higher traction, which is necessary for better off-road performance. When it comes to picking the right pressure, different terrains require different pressure values. Make sure to take a deflator and a compressor with you; it will allow you to manage tire pressure easily.

Ensure better clearance

Clearance is one of the most important things in off-road driving. However, this requires custom suspension parts as the stock ones are not always the most preferable choice. The better the suspension system you are relying on, the more you are going to be able to cover. Additionally, picking a custom made suspension is going to leave more options for you, making it easier for you to cover a variety of challenging terrains, not to mention that it is going to offer a much more pleasant drive.

These are some of the most important tips that you are going to need when it comes to off-road driving. As someone who is new to this, make sure to always be in the company of experienced people and go solo only when you know that you are prepared to face all of the challenges.

from Feedster http://www.feedster.com/blog/ivandseo/5-practical-off-road-driving-tips-that-elevate-the-whole-experience/

Buying Your First Home? 6 Things You Should Definitely Know

Buying your first home is exciting. It’s like punching a ticket that reads, “Welcome to adulthood.” However, there’s nothing simple or easy about the process and it’s highly risky to go into it unprepared or misinformed.

Here Are 6 Things You Need to Know

“Most first-timers think buying will be a perfect scenario where it all happens like it does on HGTV,” realtor Ken Pozek says. “They see three houses. They pick one, and it all works out beautifully. That never happens, unfortunately.”

Buying a home is a rewarding process, but it also tends to be pretty messy. And while you can’t avoid certain issues, you can prepare yourself by understanding the following:

1.   Your Emotions Will Be On High Alert

Few people realize how emotional home ownership is until they find themselves touring properties. The key is to be aware of your heightened emotions and avoid letting them dictate your choices.

“You’ll get vibes from the homes you visit—both positive and negative—and you’ll get a good feeling when you enter a home you can see yourself living in,” Green Residential explains. “This can be helpful, but if you allow your emotions to completely rule your decision making, you could end up passing over a logical choice or jumping into a bad choice too quickly.”

If you’re buying a home with a partner, let them know that your emotions may play a factor and ask them to be a voice of reason. If there’s no one else involved, ask your real estate agent to fulfill this responsibility.

2.   You Need an Agent

Speaking of agents, you need to have one. While you technically don’t have to work with an agent when buying a property, there’s no reason to go about the process alone. In most cases, the seller actually pays their commission, so their services are free of charge. But even if you do have to pay the commission, the time, money, and stress an agent will save you is invaluable.

3.   Get Preapproved

Before any agent will actually begin working with you, they’ll ask that you get pre-approved. This shows that you’re a serious candidate and reduces their risk of working with clients that won’t end up qualifying for a loan.

Getting pre-approved is a relatively simple process, but there are certain things lenders want to see. The four most important categories are credit score, income, current loans, and down payment percentage.

Ideally, your credit score should be above 600 and your credit utilization rate should be on the lower end of the spectrum. As far as income, most banks like to see that the monthly mortgage payment, insurance, and taxes account for no more than one-third of your monthly income.

Having existing loans is not necessarily a bad thing, but lenders will want to be sure you don’t have too much debt. And, finally, down payment percentage comes into play. If you can pay 20 percent or more on the down payment, you stand a much better chance of being approved than if you can only pay 3.5 percent.

If you don’t feel like you’ll qualify on one or more of these factors, still make it a point to speak with a lender. They’ll be happy to run your information and let you know if they have an offer.

4.   Figure Out a Budget

Just because you get preapproved doesn’t necessarily mean you can afford to buy a house. Lenders are simply looking at a paper trail, they can’t be 100 percent sure that you’re in a healthy financial situation.

After getting preapproved, you’ll have an idea of exactly how much house you can buy. Hint: You don’t have to spend the total amount. If you’re approved for a $275,000 loan, there’s nothing wrong with buying a house for $200,000. Figure out a budget that works for you and then calculate how much house you can actually afford.

5.   Consider Buying a Foreclosure

If you can find a quality house that meets all of your criteria and fits in your budget, then great! If not, you may consider taking an alternative route. While a fixer upper is always an option, that requires a lot more elbow grease than you may like. A better option is to look for foreclosures that banks are looking to unload at good prices. You may find a diamond in the rough.

6.   Look Beyond Cosmetic Flaws and Decorations

One mistake that first-time buyers – and even some seasoned homeowners – often make is saying no to a house based on surface level issues. For example, you may see a house with wood paneling in the living room and decide that it looks dated. Or perhaps your wife doesn’t like the landscaping in the backyard. Neither of these are good excuses. Wood paneling can be replaced or painted and landscaping can be fixed with a couple trips to the hardware store.

There are certain issues that you should stay away from – such as foundation and roof problems – but cosmetic flaws and decorations shouldn’t move you in one direction or the other.

Just Have Fun

The home buying process can be intimidating. You’re making the biggest purchase of your life and it’s an investment that could theoretically be in your family for decades to come. And while you need to recognize the importance of the decision you’re about to make, don’t shoulder the entire weight of this burden.

Do your due diligence and enjoy the process. If you surround yourself with the right people and information, you’ll find success.

from Feedster http://www.feedster.com/blog/larryalton/buying-your-first-home-6-things-you-should-definitely-know/

7 Things That Can Make Your Backyard Really Cool and Awesome

If you have a large backyard, and you are not using it for anything, then it’s high time you tapped into that unrealized potential. There is a lot of potential for good investments here, since you can build something that is fun or beautiful, and it will help your property value, in case you ever need to sell the house and move out.

Here we will go over some amazing items or garden accessories you can either purchase or create yourself, in order to do something useful with your back yard. These are 7 things that can make your backyard look really cool.

Pond

Well, ponds might not be fun, but they will surely make your garden look better, and they can give it that paradise vibe that will help you relax. If you want to have a peaceful backyard, with a hammock to chill out, read or take a nap, then you will definitely need a pond in order to complete this picture. Just make sure you clean it and to cover it during the night, if you are keeping any fish in it. There are numerous nocturnal predators, so try to protect your garden accessories.

Fountain

If a pond is too much trouble in terms of maintenance, then simply pick a fountain as an alternative. You can buy a smaller fountain, since it’s cheaper and it will serve as a good replacement for a pond, or you can go with a big flashy one, in case you want to throw epic parties in your backyard, since it will really contribute to the whole atmosphere.

Tree house or Bird House

If you have kids and a large tree in your backyard, then it would be a shame not to make the most out of the whole situation. You can have some quality family time, and a good DIY project that will make everyone happy. You and your kids can build this together and have a place where you will be able to create some fun memories. You can also add a small swing or a tire swing, just as a finishing touch, and you are good to go.

If you do not have a large three or conditions for a tree house, you can have another family project, like building a birdhouse for example. It will look really nice in your backyard and you can get some interesting pet birds as its tenants.  

Pool

Of course, you don’t have to build a real swimming pool, since it would cost a fortune, you can also turn this to DIY project that will come in handy during hot summer days. It’s really easy to do as well; all you need are some hay stacks and tarpaulin. Place hay stacks in a square formation and then pull the tarpaulin over them. Then use a rope to make sure tarpaulin doesn’t slip from the hay stacks and use some additional haystack to provide additional security. All that remains is to fill it with water. Here is an image of the finished product. As you can see it’s quite easy to pull off, so you should definitely give it a go.   

Trampoline

Another super fun accessory is a trampoline. The best thing about it is that you don’t have to build it, you can simply cash it out, and get a perfectly good and safe trampoline for your backyard. This will be awesome for kids, since they can play and learn some new skills, like backflips. Of course, it is important that you do not allow two or more children to jump at the same time, since it could be dangerous, so make sure you take turns.

Mini Football pitch

If you are into sports and want to get your kids enthusiastic about football, then you can create a mini football pitch. All you need to do is build a rectangular wooden fence around a certain portion of your backyard, and buy some small goals. All you need to do is inform the neighborhood about your latest accessory and you can have football tournaments. Since, the pitch is limited by the wooden fence, there are no outs or corner shots, so all you need is some white paint to mark the center of the pitch.   

Beer Pong Table

Finally, you can create another party accessory for grown-ups, or to be more accurate, young adults. Basically you buy a ping pong table, or craft one yourself. Get some ping pong balls, plastic cups, and alcohol. If you know the rules for beer pong, you know the rest.

I hope you like these ideas there is a bit of something for everyone. Surely one of these items will inspire you to do something creative with your backyard, so get to work.

from Feedster http://www.feedster.com/blog/vladzivanovic/7-things-that-can-make-your-backyard-really-cool-and-awesome/

7 Business Resources Your Boss Wants To Know About

When the body was first created, all the parts wanted to be the boss. The brain said, “I should be the boss because I control all the body parts.” The feet said, “We should be the boss because only we can lead you to your goals.” The hands said, “We should be the boss because we do all the work.” We all know how this joke ends. But jokes apart, not all bosses are bad and many are receptive to new ideas and suggestions, sure it is not as easy as it sounds but if you have a genuine request or a suggestion, you have a shot at convincing your boss using the following strategy.

1. Define The Problem

When asked to invest in tools or any resources, many companies are skeptical and there is a good reason behind it. Around half a decade back, many companies invested in expensive software solutions such as ERP (Hint: SAP) and wasted hundreds of millions in training, implementation, missed opportunities, and of course the original investment. That is why you have to understand and outline the issues you’re facing and back your suggestion with as many statistics, research, and studies as possible. That said, don’t spoil your case by embellishing facts and exaggerating issues.

2. Present A Solution

There’s a greater chance of your suggestion being welcomed if you have a problem-solution approach. If you are not providing a solution, your case is at a risk of coming across as an outburst or rant. For instance, if your work is suffering because of lack of collaboration, then present the solution in the form a project management tool. Show how it can improve communication and collaboration within your company, support your argument with statistics and charts from reputable sources. See how this McKinsey report shows how much time is wasted in writing emails, searching for information, and internal collaboration. But it also shows how collaboration tools can lead to improvement in productivity.

3. Weigh Pros and Cons of Each Tool

Make your boss’ life easier by discussing the merits and demerits of your solution. Also discuss how each tool weighs against the other. Mind you, not all solutions are equally suited to your company’s requirement. For instance, if you need an enterprise-level project management tool that provides sophisticated resources for planning, management, and collaboration, WorkZone could be a good solution. But if you have a smaller team, you need to find a tool like Asana, a simple task management alternative for a team of 4 or 5. So choose your tools carefully after weighing the pros and cons.

4. Find A Specialized Alternative

If your power doesn’t stretch beyond your particular department or team, you would be better off with a specialized tool. If you are looking to collaborate over a particular task, say for example, social media planning, you can refer a tool like Sendible that takes care of planning, publishing, analytics, and collaboration between management, team members and clients, but everything is related to social media, so only social media department would be affected by this change. This is the high tech era and we have specialized tools for email marketing, social media, project planning, HR, and every conceivable function within a company. If your boss is afraid of implementation and changes across the company, which is quite reasonable, you can suggest a specialized alternative that concerns only one department, function, or branch.

5. Show How Solutions Are Aligned to Goals

Once you have nailed the perfect solution, it is time to show how the solution will help advance company goals. You need to persuade your boss or manager that your suggestion is not only aligned with company strategy but also prove that it can help them reach their goals faster. One way to do it would be to gather data and show how the solution could get the company x% closer to the goal. This is a lengthy process and involves numbers, so make sure you are really good at analytics (more about this in the next point). Another simpler way would be to show proof of concept. Most SaaS and software solutions provider offer a free 30-days trial, so you can run a proof of concept on a small project, present the benefits and outline how beneficial the solution would be if implemented for a larger project or on a large scale.

6. Do A Cost-Benefit Analysis

Let’s be honest, we all know everyone is here to make money. Instead of pointing out fluffy benefits like better employee morale or innovation, show ‘em the money! Here’s a sample cost-benefit analysis report for an automated invoicing system. As you can see costs include direct and indirect costs, while include all direct and indirect revenues including intangible benefits (e.g. increased productivity, increased customer goodwill). Make sure you think of all the costs and benefits before you present your case to the boss.

7. Get Team Members Onboard

If you know data and proofs just won’t cut it but you still want your voice to be heard – get more people onboard. Sometimes it is harder to convince employees than to convince the boss. If you can convince other team members, supervisors, or managers, they can help take your case forward. Also team play means you get more ideas and motivation to support your proposal. Just make sure you don’t fall prey to office politics.

Wrapping it up

There could be many reasons your boss may not be ready to invest in tool / tools. The responsibility lies on you to understand the real, underlying fears why he or she is not ready and them work around those fears, rational or otherwise. You need to impress upon your boss that we live in times where technology changes faster than the blink of an eye and as Henri Bergson once said, “a man’s superiority lies in his power to build and improvise on himself and his things.”

from Feedster http://www.feedster.com/blog/twitter-avinair52/7-business-resources-your-boss-wants-to-know-about/

X Business Resources Your Boss Wants To Know About

When the body was first created, all the parts wanted to be the boss. The brain said, “I should be the boss because I control all the body parts.” The feet said, “We should be the boss because only we can lead you to your goals.” The hands said, “We should be the boss because we do all the work.” We all know how this joke ends. But jokes apart, not all bosses are bad and many are receptive to new ideas and suggestions, sure it is not as easy as it sounds but if you have a genuine request or a suggestion, you have a shot at convincing your boss using the following strategy.

1. Define The Problem

When asked to invest in tools or any resources, many companies are skeptical and there is a good reason behind it. Around half a decade back, many companies invested in expensive software solutions such as ERP (Hint: SAP) and wasted hundreds of millions in training, implementation, missed opportunities, and of course the original investment. That is why you have to understand and outline the issues you’re facing and back your suggestion with as many statistics, research, and studies as possible. That said, don’t spoil your case by embellishing facts and exaggerating issues.

2. Present A Solution

There’s a greater chance of your suggestion being welcomed if you have a problem-solution approach. If you are not providing a solution, your case is at a risk of coming across as an outburst or rant. For instance, if your work is suffering because of lack of collaboration, then present the solution in the form a project management tool. Show how it can improve communication and collaboration within your company, support your argument with statistics and charts from reputable sources. See how this McKinsey report shows how much time is wasted in writing emails, searching for information, and internal collaboration. But it also shows how collaboration tools can lead to improvement in productivity.

3. Weigh Pros and Cons of Each Tool

Make your boss’ life easier by discussing the merits and demerits of your solution. Also discuss how each tool weighs against the other. Mind you, not all solutions are equally suited to your company’s requirement. For instance, if you need an enterprise-level project management tool that provides sophisticated resources for planning, management, and collaboration, WorkZone could be a good solution. But if you have a smaller team, you need to find a tool like Asana, a simple task management alternative for a team of 4 or 5. So choose your tools carefully after weighing the pros and cons.

4. Find A Specialized Alternative

If your power doesn’t stretch beyond your particular department or team, you would be better off with a specialized tool. If you are looking to collaborate over a particular task, say for example, social media planning, you can refer a tool like Sendible that takes care of planning, publishing, analytics, and collaboration between management, team members and clients, but everything is related to social media, so only social media department would be affected by this change. This is the high tech era and we have specialized tools for email marketing, social media, project planning, HR, and every conceivable function within a company. If your boss is afraid of implementation and changes across the company, which is quite reasonable, you can suggest a specialized alternative that concerns only one department, function, or branch.

5. Show How Solutions Are Aligned to Goals

Once you have nailed the perfect solution, it is time to show how the solution will help advance company goals. You need to persuade your boss or manager that your suggestion is not only aligned with company strategy but also prove that it can help them reach their goals faster. One way to do it would be to gather data and show how the solution could get the company x% closer to the goal. This is a lengthy process and involves numbers, so make sure you are really good at analytics (more about this in the next point). Another simpler way would be to show proof of concept. Most SaaS and software solutions provider offer a free 30-days trial, so you can run a proof of concept on a small project, present the benefits and outline how beneficial the solution would be if implemented for a larger project or on a large scale.

6. Do A Cost-Benefit Analysis

Let’s be honest, we all know everyone is here to make money. Instead of pointing out fluffy benefits like better employee morale or innovation, show ‘em the money! Here’s a sample cost-benefit analysis report for an automated invoicing system. As you can see costs include direct and indirect costs, while include all direct and indirect revenues including intangible benefits (e.g. increased productivity, increased customer goodwill). Make sure you think of all the costs and benefits before you present your case to the boss.

7. Get Team Members Onboard

If you know data and proofs just won’t cut it but you still want your voice to be heard – get more people onboard. Sometimes it is harder to convince employees than to convince the boss. If you can convince other team members, supervisors, or managers, they can help take your case forward. Also team play means you get more ideas and motivation to support your proposal. Just make sure you don’t fall prey to office politics.

Wrapping it up

There could be many reasons your boss may not be ready to invest in tool / tools. The responsibility lies on you to understand the real, underlying fears why he or she is not ready and them work around those fears, rational or otherwise. You need to impress upon your boss that we live in times where technology changes faster than the blink of an eye and as Henri Bergson once said, “a man’s superiority lies in his power to build and improvise on himself and his things.”

from Feedster http://www.feedster.com/blog/twitter-avinair52/x-business-resources-your-boss-wants-to-know-about/