Why 6 Berth Touring Caravans Are A Good Idea

Caravan holidays are going through a resurgence. After all, there are many benefits of going on a caravan holiday especially at the moment, where it's more difficult to go abroad. Caravan holidays are easy to plan, cost-effective in the long run and flexible. Let's have a look at the benefits of caravan holidays and especially the 6 berth touring caravans. This is an advertorial in conjunction with Bailey of Bristol Caravans and Motorhomes but all words and opinions are my own.

The benefits of a caravan holiday

Pegasus caravan
As a child, you may have gone on a caravan holiday and have many memories of caravan holidays with your family. Caravan holidays have changed since those days though, you can still have fun with your family but in a more upgraded environment.

Today there is no need to use the campsite's toilet block for a shower as toilets and showers are usually standard in caravans these days. Most also have cooking facilities and a fridge too so you can be completely self-sufficient. In these pandemic times, it's always good to have your own shower facilities and be able to cook food for yourself if needed. The new models of caravans are definitely more high end and luxurious than in the past.

Caravan holidays are also flexible, you can go at short notice, as there is no need to book a hotel in advance just a pitch for your caravan. Some places allow you just to turn up if there is space too without booking. It's great for impulse weekends away. Although you do have the expense of a caravan initially, pitch fees are so much cheaper than a hotel too.

Caravan holidays are great if you have a dog. Many dog lovers love caravan holidays as they can take their pet with them, and they don't have the cost and worry of putting their dog in a kennel.

Why I personally would like a Bailey 6 berth caravan

inside caravan

As well as the benefits of a caravan holiday I mentioned above I have some personal reasons why I would like a caravan.

Firstly I have always wanted a caravan. When I was a child we went on many camping holidays and I used to look in envy at the caravans at my local stockist. Caravanning looked... exotic! Having your home with you when you travel still seems exciting today. Being able to park by a beach or a beauty spot and sit in comfort with a cup of tea, admiring the view is my idea of heaven.

Secondly, holidays abroad are really difficult at the moment. With countries' travel status changing on a regular basis and the fuss of having to get PCR tests and possibly isolate, a caravan holiday in the UK seems like a great idea, without all the fuss.

Thirdly, the flexibility of a caravan holiday is a great thing. When borders opening up again, it will be especially good for us. We can take the caravan abroad on a ferry or the Eurotunnel, and no flying is involved. As someone who is an anxious flyer then that is obviously a great thing.

Lastly, a 6 berth touring caravan from Bailey of Bristol would be a great spacious choice even more so if you are a couple. We can also take my mum or my grown-up son with us if we need to as well. 

The caravan I would choose

caravan

Bailey Caravans have a website with 360 virtual tours which were really useful when choosing the perfect caravan. In fact, all the current caravans and motorhomes have virtual tours so you can see the inside of each one. Check out the caravan virtual showroom and the motorhome virtual showroom. My favourite caravan was the Pegasus Grand SE caravan range which is spacious, high-end and luxurious looking. The Alliance silver edition motorhome with their Alu-Tech technologically advanced strong body shell is also another favourite.

The Pegasus Grand SE has 6 different models with roomy layouts. I like the Turin model. It has a generous front lounge with a parallel seating area that can be converted into a double bed or two singles. Perfect for my son. It also has another seating area that can be converted into a double bed. Great if my mum was with us. At the back of the caravan, there is a fixed double bed that is screened from the rest of the caravan with a curtain, which would be perfect for my husband and I. What really makes it for me though is a corner washroom with a large shower cubicle. No having to run to the shower block in the cold. It also has a dual fuel hob and microwave which is so handy if restaurants are busy in tourist areas.

Where I would go and what would I do

Oban
The UK is such a beautiful and green country so initially, I would like to explore Scotland more, driving around Loch Lomond or the Scottish Highlands. We visited this area recently and would love to go back to the area around Oban and possibly take a trip to the Isle of Mull. Accommodation can be expensive so having a caravan will mean we would save money.

In the autumn a trip to Cornwall would be a must when the beaches become quieter. I would visit the pretty little seaside towns like St Ives and explore the Cornish coast, checking out the chip shops along the way. I mean you have to have fish and chips when visiting the seaside don't you?! 

So let me know, would you get a caravan or motorhome? Do you like the Bailey of Bristol caravans and motorhomes?

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What Are The Common Causes of Dementia?

It is currently estimated that more than 850,000 individuals in the United Kingdom have been diagnosed with dementia. Further research has shown that one in six individuals over the age of 80 exhibit symptoms of this illness. Not only is dementia debilitating from the point of view of the patient, but it can wreak havoc upon families.

old lady

Although there are no known cures for dementia as of yet, scientists are beginning to understand some of the causes of this condition. This will inevitably provide more targeted treatment options in the future. So, let's take a quick look at why some individuals will develop dementia during the later stages of life.

The Role of Brain Cells

From a very basic perspective, brain cells that become damaged represent the leading cause of dementia. The brain is a very specialised machine and specific areas control certain functions throughout the body. This is why diagnosing which cells have become damaged is often accomplished by observing the symptoms of the dementia patient in question. For instance, it is thought that Alzheimer's disease is caused by an accumulation of protein in between the cells. This makes it more difficult for them to communicate with one another. Still, please note that research is still ongoing in terms of cellular damage.

Existing Conditions

It is also thought that

certain diseases
can increase the chances of an individual developing dementia. These are classified as follows:

  • Huntington's disease
  • Certain types of traumatic brain injuries
  • Parkinson's disease
  • Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease

This is why it is important to obtain a dementia screening if you or someone you know has already been diagnosed with one of the conditions highlighted above.

Risk Factors To Highlight

old lady on bench

There are certain risk factors that have been shown to increase the chances of developing dementia. Some of these cannot be changed while others can indeed be modified. Here are a handful of metrics that are out of our control:

  • Genetics
  • Age
  • Down syndrome

The good news is that other scenarios can be proactively managed including:

Embracing a healthy diet
Obtaining plenty of exercise
Addressing cardiovascular issues such as high blood pressure
Quitting smoking
Obtaining treatment for anxiety and depression
Limiting the chances of head trauma (such as wearing a helmet when playing contact sports)

So, it is clear that all of us have the ability to lessen the possibility (to an extent) of being diagnosed with dementia in the future.

Obtaining Professional Help at the Right Time

The good news is that experts are now able to manage many of the symptoms associated with dementia. Would you like to learn more about specialist dementia care in Devon? If so, one of the professionals at Eastleigh Care Homes is always standing by. Please contact them to schedule an in-depth consultation at your convenience.


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The Importance Of Gut Health And How BC30™ Could Help

This is an advertorial in conjunction with BC30™ through Kitchen PLAY, but all words and opinions are my own.

Looking after my health is important to me, and more so as I start my 50s. I do certain things now to look after myself that I didn't do when I was younger - eat a range of fruit and vegetables, use suncream even on overcast days, and take care of my gut health. Let's have a look at the importance of gut health and how you can support a healthy system. 

Why I look after my gut health

Mel

In my 30s I was having some gut issues. This came after a period of high stress including my father having a heart attack, a change of job and divorce. You know one of those periods in life where you are just about holding it together. We all have them but this was an intensely stressful time in life. Before I knew it I was getting bloating and cramping in my stomach and changes in bowel movements. If I ate something creamy, or with onions or peas I would have a really bad reaction. It made me look at my diet and how to improve my gut health.

I found that certain things helped kept my gut well and avoid the cramping and bloating feeling.  These include daily exercise, drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcohol and avoiding certain foods like garlic, onions, peas and beans. I also found in my personal experience that a daily intake of cultures helped my gut health.  It helped me feel better and helped digest those 'troublesome' foods I mentioned before. Let's have a look at the science behind this further.

Why friendly bacteria is good for you

stomach

Cultures that may also be known as ‘good’ or ‘friendly’ bacteria have been shown in a number of studies to help support and help aid digestion
One of the most unique is BC30, a science-backed culture ingredient used to fortify foods and beverages with the benefits of good bacteria. However because not all friendly bacteria are equal, it's important to look at the science behind the claims. Different friendly bacteria or cultures are good for different things. When you consume foods or beverages containing BC30 cultures, you’re adding more good bacteria to help support healthy digestion and immune health.

What are BC30™ Cultures?

BC30

BC30 is a friendly bacteria (culture) that will help to safely support your digestive health and immune system by regulating the bacterial population. This special culture is an ingredient added to a range of functional foods and beverages from granola and porridge to a combination of seeds and grains that can be added to your food. 

It's a spore-forming culture. What this means is that it has a protective shell allowing it to survive extremes of temperature such as boiling and microwaving and also survive the acid in your stomach. Not all cultures can do this! 

To identify functional foods containing the BC30 cultures lookout for the BC30™ (formerly known as GanedenBC30mark on the pack or 'Bacillus coagulans GBI-30, 6086”. You then know you will be getting a top-quality culture in your food. 

My personal experience of BC30 cultures

grains and BC30

I found products containing BC30 cultures in my local health food shop and a well-known supermarket so it wasn't too difficult to get hold of, which is always good! Look out for the BC30 mark on the product.

Incorporating this culture into my diet was easier than I thought. I think it's important to take it on a regular basis as cultures work better like this so I try to have functional foods containing this product for breakfast most days. By doing this it is easier to make it part of your routine.

BC30 milkshake

I particularly enjoyed making a simple soya milk and banana milkshake with a Flaxseed with Bio Cultures and Vitamin D blend added which contained the BC30 ingredient. All you need for this is one large banana, chop it up and place in a blender with soya milk to cover, and 2 dessertspoons of the flaxseed mix which contains BC30. Then blend for 30 seconds until the flaxseed mix is finely ground. The milkshake contains fibre, protein, potassium, omega 3, vitamin D, and calcium. It's a great milkshake when you don't want anything heavy for breakfast. The flaxseed mix can be added to salads and soups too. The flaxseed mix from is available from Holland and Barratt. 

Another product I enjoyed was granola with the BC30 culture added and some soya milk. The granola was a tasty mix of toasted oats, desiccated coconut, cashews, hazelnuts, and walnuts with a little black treacle and joined by gut-friendly cultures. This vegan mix provides high fibre, protein, and omega 3 so it's a great start to your day with the BC30 ingredient providing digestive support. The granola is available from Sainsbury's.

Over the course of two weeks, I felt that adding the cultures to my diet was beneficial to me. My anecdotal evidence is that I felt that my stomach was less bloated and uncomfortable. Over longer periods it could benefit a healthy digestive system, however, the best way to find out is to try it for yourself.  Let me know if you take cultures in your diet, and if they have helped you. Would you try BC30 functional foods or beverages?

Reasons To Go On Safari In Tanzania

Wondering where to go on a bucket list holiday in the future? Why not consider a Tanzanian safari? If you think this is a holiday you would be interested in finding out more about, then let's have a look at my reasons to go on a safari to Tanzania and why it will make special memories for you. This is an advertorial. 

Where is Tanzania?

Tanzania is a country in East Africa that is known for its wide-open spaces and is a popular safari destination. It has Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa as well as national parks, including seven UNESCO world heritage sites including three UNESCO national parks with an abundance of wildlife. These are Serengeti National Park, Selous Game Reserve and Kilimanjaro National Park.

How to get there

At the moment there are no flights direct to Tanzania due to the pandemic. Keep up to date with the FCO advice. In the future when it's safe to fly there flights may resume and you should also be able to go by changing flights. All British passport holders need a tourist or business visa to enter Tanzania. Read more on the website Evisa.Express

It is perfect for nature lovers

lion

The diversity of animals in Tanzania is amazing and going on a safari you will see animals including some of the big 5 - lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo and elephant. The most popular place to see these wonderful creatures are at the Serengeti National Park but you could also see them at the Ngorongoro Crater, and the vast Selous Game Reserve. Tanzania also has more than 1000 bird species as well as a large concentration of hippos, wild dogs and crocodiles at Selous game reserve.

It's a holiday that is unique and different

It's not a holiday lying on the beach or by the pool although some of the high-end hotels do have them, a safari in Tanzania is unique and different. You will be spending time in jeeps on a game drive, trying to track down the wildlife. It can be exciting when you catch a glimpse of the Big 5 and thrilling although brutal if you see an animal being hunted by another. 

If you are an animal lover it's the best

elephant

I've already covered the number of amazing animals in nature you can see but did you know Tanzania is home to the annual great migration from Serengeti National Park to Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, where over 2.5 million wildebeest and zebra migrate? This is some spectacle for sure. Getting close to nature on a safari can be a fantastic experience for an animal lover, you get to see animals you will never see in the UK, Europe and the USA, and such a better and more authentic experience than seeing these animals in a zoo. 

They offer a touch of luxury

A safari experience can offer wonderful luxury at places like the Four Seasons Serengeti where you can experience a luxurious tented experience. There are also lots of luxury resorts like the Hideaway of Nungwi and Ras Kutani. A stay on a top-end safari site can be all-inclusive to include all your food, drinks and a tour guide, so it's a good choice for a luxury holiday and one where you don't have to organise anything once you are there. Some tour guides can offer a personal service geared to you, if there are certain animals you want to see be sure they know.

You can learn a lot about wildlife

If you are planning a holiday for next year an exotic safari to Tanzania is an exciting option especially for nature lovers. The guides that come with an organised safari tour are very knowledgeable about the land, the animals and where they roam. Finding animals in the vast plains is a definite skill. Using their knowledge they will connect with other guides and spot animals so they can travel to them at a safe distance for you to see. They will impart their knowledge to you, so you will learn about them and their habitat. Also, local biologists can join your game drive in Serengeti while they collect and record data that is submitted to leading research and conservation organisations.

It's a once in a lifetime experience

Being so close to these magnificent animals is a once in a lifetime experience. A safari is certainly a holiday that is different from most people's vacations and one you can make wonderful memories on. 


Let me know, would you go on a holiday on safari to Tanzania in the future?

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Win Tescos Vouchers Worth £270

Times are not easy at the moment, many of us are counting the pennies, changes of job or unemployment from the pandemic mean we may not be as wealthy as we once were. Some people are really struggling, and there is a new term starting too with new uniform to buy the kids. 

know a little of some of the hardships many of my readers are going through. My freelance work is less than it was, my husband's work had dried up and with my adult son is still living at home with the cost of food has gone through the roof I've had to look at my budget as well.  However, I am really appreciative of my readers and want to give back to you for supporting me on my blog since 2012.  So I have a lovely competition you can enter.

win
The competition I have running today is for an awesome prize of £270 worth of Tesco Vouchers. This is split into 3 prizes of £200, £60, £10. You even have a chance of winning all 3 prizes if you enter all of the options on the Rafflecopter. Just think about what you could buy with that.

Who brings this awesome prize to you? A handful of bloggers got together and added some money to the pot to make the prize as big as this. So If you would like to support them, please pop over to their blogs and read a couple of posts. Each blogger has their own story to tell and you can always find something exciting to read from the different blogs.

Being Tillys Mummy// Miss Tilly And Me// Life Lessons With Vicky// The Little House By The Sea// Tillys Travelling Telegram// We Made This Life// My Life Your Way// We Made This Vegan// The Diary Of A Jewellery Lover// Diary Of The Evans Crittens// Life In A Breakdown// Simply Saving// Uk Lifestyle Hub// Mirage// Adventures Of A Yorkshire Mum// My Three And Me // A Guide To Gifts// Life Of A Fishermans Wife// Melanies Fab Finds// Stressed Mum// Makeup Muddle// Stylish London Living// Happy Time Blog// Rachel Bustin// Socially Rach// Adventures Begin At Home// Not Got A Clue// Blog Bay-Bee// Camping Solid// Gemma Etc// Mums Guide To Life// Joanna Victoria// Rice Cakes And Raisins// Beauty Queen UK// Might Mama Bear// M M Book Blog// Spilling Life Tea// Miss L J Beauty// MTB LM// Yeah Lifestyle// Fashion Mommy// Rhian Westbury// Petals And Planes// My Tunbridge Wells// Travel Bugs// Step Into Parenting// My Dreamality// Binancially Inclined// Be Happy Be You// Extreme Frugal Living// Love Marriage Kids// At Home With Kayla// Girls Gospel// Miss Makeup Magpie// Simple Reveries

In order to be in with a chance to win, please enter through the Rafflecopter app below. First, be sure to write a comment on the blog you came through. What we need is for you to tell us What would you spend the winning voucher on? Would you save it for a big purchase, use it for Christmas food or something else?

win vouchers

Also let me know in the Rafflecopter app, the name you commented with and the blog you commented on. There are also more ways to enter the competition. You do not have to enter using all of the options but the more you enter, the more chances you will have of winning. You have to be in it to win it! All three prizes total £270!


Terms And Conditions

vouchers


UK Entries only.
  • Blog comments must be over 8 words long otherwise it usually goes to the spam file.
  • This is a collaborated competition and is not associated with Tesco or any other company.
  • You must be over 18 to enter this competition.
  • You don’t need to enter all of the other requirements but if you do say you have completed them, please ensure that you have. Otherwise, your entry is void.
  • You have 28 days to claim your prize or another winner will be chosen. 
  • After you have claimed your prize, you will receive the voucher within 28 days
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Huawei G2 Watch Review

If you are looking for a watch that is a multi-functional gadget then there are many out there on the market. If you are looking for sleek looks and wellness integration that doesn't break the bank then you should consider the Huawei GT 2. Let's have a look at the features of this watch and why I feel it is a good buy.


Who are Huawei?

Huawei is a leading provider of ICT and smart devices and are based in China. The consumer products they sell include laptops and phones to wearing tech including watches and headphones.

Huawei watch GT 2 model design

The Huawei watch GT 2 model is a watch for the modern age. It has a sleek and minimalistic design which is ideal for stylish consumers everywhere. This is the sort of watch that can be worn with a smart suit or equally with a dress for a night out, or with casual clothes or a workout outfit. The glass in the smartwatch has a 3d design and the high-quality glass carved by gemstones make it water-resistant.

Huawei watch GT 2 model features

The Huawei watch GT 2 model is a great watch for monitoring your workouts. It has 15 different sport modes and 85 workout modes that can be customisable. It encompasses an AI heart rate algorithm to monitor your heart rate while you are wearing it, including resting and sleeping and not just working out. It can also be used to monitor your heart rate in the water when swimming. It integrates well with the Huawei health app to monitor all your workouts.

It has long life battery power to last you a long time. I like the automatic workout detection so you don't have to set the watch, it comes on automatically when it thinks you are working out. It also has interchangeable straps when you get bored of the one strap design.

My favourite overall is the Huawei watch GT 2 42mm face, with a champagne gold face and a refined gold strap. You can also get the watch strap in a range of colours from black to misty blue and frosty white to sandy brown. I like the 42mm face as it's not too small so it makes it easy to see the face but it still feels feminine.

Why you should buy the Huawei watch GT 2

With its stylish design and fitness capabilities, this watch is a great buy. My version with the refined gold strap retails at £139 but with different straps, the retail price is just over £100, much less than many of its competitors. This is why I feel it's a great buy. The Huawei watch GT 2 42mm face really is a great health and life companion. 

Let me know, what do you think of the Huawei watch GT 2 with a 42mm face? Do you use a smartwatch?

3 Types Of Smart Tech To Help Your Fitness

If you are looking to get fit or keep your fitness level there is a huge amount of smart tech out there now. It may seem overwhelming. However, don't worry, as on the blog today I will take you through some of the latest technology devices like the Huawei band pro 4 and Peleton, and apps that can help your fitness, whether you are a complete beginner or a more advanced athlete. Let's have a lot at smart tech to help your fitness in 2021.

Fitness apps

jogger

There is a wide range of fitness apps like this gym software to help you get fit and maintain your fitness level.

One of my favourite apps that have been around for a while is My Fitness Pal. You can choose a goal such as weight loss, maintenance or weight gain and the app tracks your diet and exercise. The food database is extensive with over 11 million items and you can add a recipe to it too. You can see how by taking exercise, you can eat more if you are on a diet.

Other fitness apps include Runkeeper where you can set running goals and review your stats, Glo which is a Yoga app suitable for beginners, and the Couch To 5K app which is perfect if you are starting exercise and are building up to running or walking 5K.

Wearable technology

It's amazing how technology can be integrated into wearing gadgets and there is a wide range of wearable tech solutions these days.

Smartwatches like the Huawei band pro 4 have some incredible features that weren't widely around a decade ago in wearable tech like oxygen saturation, and smart heart rate tracking,  and allow you to sync to your computer or an app. Many smartwatches allow you to receive calls or texts as well. The Huawei band pro 4 is realistically priced at £49.99 and you just raise your wrist to check notifications and calls.

Other wearable technology includes smart clothing such as Sensoria Fitness Socks that records how your foot lands which is useful for runners, smart jewellery such as the Oura smart ring that obtains health tracking data, and Nadi X yoga pants that vibrate when your yoga pose is not correct

Smart gym equipment

There is a range of smart gym equipment to meet all budgets out there, from the high-end luxury equipment costing thousands of pounds to lower budget options.

One of the most well known is the Peleton bike. This high-end gym bike offers more than eight daily live classes along with thousands more on-demand from 40 dollars a month. If you buy an exercise bike with smart technology like this for your home, you can exercise any time of the day or night. It also has a large online community of Facebook for extra support.

Other gym equipment that uses smart technology include Technogym My Run treadmill which adapts to your running style to protect your joints, Mirror which is a reflective screen with on-demand workouts that you pay a monthly fee for and Smartrope which is a skipping rope that displays your workout data.

So these are three types of smart tech that can help your fitness. Do you use any of these? What's your favourite smart technology that helps your fitness?

*Collaborative post

What Do I Need For A New Horse?

Owning a horse is a big undertaking. If you have never owned a horse before it may seem like there is so much information out there to read. Here is a simple guide to what you need for a new horse. This list isn't exhaustive but is a basic guide for new owners.

Read any information you can find

horse and rider

Firstly owning a horse is a big commitment, so read any information you can find out there from reputable sources. A subscription to a magazine about horses is a good idea like Your Horse, or Horse and Rider, and read blog posts about owning horses. Horse care books like The Complete Horse Care Manual are also a good buy. Horses are also expensive so check that you have the money as well as the time commitment to look after a horse. You also need to ensure your horse is registered at a veterinary practice for routine health care such as vaccinations and dental care. This also costs money.

What shelter and space will my horse need?

Horses need to graze and enjoy being in fields during the day but they need shelter too. You need to see what you can afford and then what livery fits your needs. This is where a horse is looked after, mucked out and may be exercised for you. Many people won't have a field and stables to keep a horse themselves but if you are serious about keeping a horse look for fields to rent and how to build a stable if you don't want to go down the livery route. 

Stable equipment

If you are building a stable then you need stable equipment. Equipment needed includes feed buckets, hay nets, pitchforks, brooms, a wheelbarrow and manure forks. You can buy some of these second hand if you are on a tight budget. Just ensure that there have been no chemicals stored in any second-hand buckets.

Horse trailer

For transporting a horse you need a horse trailer. These can be thousands of pounds new. Again you can buy second-hand horse trailers that are in good condition - look at adverts in the back of horse magazines or sites such as Gumtree or Preloved. Just be sure that it is solid, and has no rust or damage. 

Grooming

horse and groomer

Horse grooming is essential to look after your horse and its wellbeing. You need to groom a horse at least once a week to ensure the condition of the horse. When you groom a horse you can pick up any health conditions too. Things you need to buy include a hoof pick, curry comb, body brush and mane comb. Shampoo and conditioner made especially for horses are also recommended. 

Horse Tack

Horse tack is the equipment you need to ride a horse. This includes a saddle and saddle blanket, stirrups, a bridle, a martingale, and reins. There are a few terms you may not be familiar within these terms, for example, a martingale is a strap from the reins to the girth of a horse preventing it from carrying its head too high and a bridle is a headgear used to control the horse.  

Saddle Pad

When it comes to choosing a saddle pad for your horse, it's important to prioritize their comfort. Consider your horse's size and shape to make sure you purchase a saddle pad that fits correctly and doesn't cause pain during riding.

For first-time riders or horses, using a general-purpose saddle or a LeMieux non slip gel saddle pad is better. These options provide additional support, making them safer for both you and your horse.

Feed

Horses are herbivores and need grass, hay and haylage as well as plenty of water. You should be able to source hay suppliers online. If your horse is working hard then you can give supplements but it's a good idea to check with a professional such as a vet or horse nutritionist what the best supplement for its needs are.

Clothing

Essential clothing to ride a horse includes riding boots with heels to use in the stirrups, a riding hat that is a must-have in case you fall off, and leggings or breeches. If you are new to riding a body protector can provide some essential protection if you are thrown off your horse too. Of course, you can spend more on your clothing but these are some of the essentials you need. 

This is a simple guide to what you need for a new horse. Let me know if I have missed anything out.

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10 Things You Should Do To Sell Your House Quickly

Being ready to sell a house doesn’t mean that you can do it right away. Fortunately, the market today is advantageous for homeowners. The demand for nice properties is much higher than in the past ten years. However, there are still some things that you need to consider when selling your house, especially if you want to do it fast.

In this article, you will find ten tips on what you should do if you want to sell your house quickly, including finding the right real estate agent, upgrading your property, getting professional pictures, and many more, so read on!

Update Your Home

keys
If you want to sell your house quickly, the first thing that you need to do is make some upgrades. Nonetheless, it does not mean that you have to plan a massive renovation. Instead, there are several small things that you can do that can make a whole world of difference.

You can consider a few things: updating the paint and carpet, installing new appliances, or making your home smarter. For instance, you can install a Craftsman HP Belt Drive Garage Door Opener or buy a smart thermostat to boost your home’s value. The important thing is to make everything look nice without spending too much money.

Find a Good Real Estate Agent

The tips you can find in this article are useless if you do not have an excellent real estate agent working on your behalf. If you let a professional market and advertise your property, it can only benefit you.

Nevertheless, you must choose a real estate agent who is experienced and knows the housing market inside out. After you do it, your agent will help you price your home correctly and find the right buyer for it.

Get Professional Pictures of Your House

One of the most important things you need to do when selling your house is taking professional pictures. When potential buyers see lovely photos of some home, they can imagine themselves living there, increasing the chances that they will buy the property.

To take great pictures, you should hire a professional photographer. Besides, you can also hire a home stager who will help you prepare your home for the photos by moving or removing furniture and other items that are not needed. You could also consider furniture rental for staging your home. This can give a high-quality look and feel to your home at minimal cost.

Make Sure There Are No Repairs Needed

roof repairs

Another thing that should be on your priority list is to check if there are any repairs needed before you put your house on the market. After all, even a minor issue can be a significant turn-off for many potential buyers.

If there are problems with your roof, windows, or doors, your real estate agent should know about it and let the buyer know before they place an offer on it. This way, you will be able to negotiate on the repairs and keep the reputation of a reliable seller.
 
However, if you do not want to, or cannot afford to, complete these repairs, you can always bypass the traditional real estate agent-led sale process and instead opt to sell your home with to company that offers "cash for my houses Atlanta" (or a similar company in your local area). As companies like this will often purchase homes in any condition, selling to them can be a great option for anyone who is faced with a never-ending list of repairs, or who needs a quick sale before they move across state or country.
 

Hire A Cleaning Service

If you do not have time to clean your property for sale, you might want to think about hiring a cleaning service. With end of tenancy cleaning, you can keep the place clean and good-looking without much hassle. This way, you can keep the place clean and good-looking without much hassle.

Remember, the last thing that you want is having people come into the house only to see that it is dirty. It can ruin the chances of getting a good price for your property and harm your reputation as well.

Remove Personal Items

Another thing that you need to do is remove all the personal stuff from your house. Try to treat the home just like a model. You do not want it to look cluttered, so transfer all the unnecessary items, including family photos, plants, magazines, and other decorations, to your new place.

Declutter Your Closets

Removing items from your closets is crucial if you want to sell your house quickly. Most buyers like having space for their clothes and belongings right from the get-go. Eliminating clutter allows you to do just that.

Keep in mind that you do not have to get rid of everything. Instead, you can donate old clothes or shoes that you do not need anymore. Alternatively, you can sell clothes online or at consignment stores.

Properly Stage Your Home

dining table

Do not be afraid to make some changes to the interior of your home! Instead, think about staging your home so buyers can immediately notice the benefits of living there.

One of the best ways you can go about this is hiring a professional stager because they know what buyers want. Besides, they know how to position furniture and decorations, so everything looks tidy and well-organized.

Price Your Home Right

Another thing many homeowners struggle with when selling their property is pricing it correctly, especially if the market is hot. We suggest you start by talking to a real estate agent about the market in your area and how much similar homes are selling for. Additionally, if there are some other listings in your area, take a look at them so you can see where your house fits in.

Don’t Be Afraid To Negotiate

Finally, do not be afraid to negotiate with potential buyers because it can help you get more money for your house. For example, you may ask them if they would be willing to pay more if you fix specific issues or remove some furniture. It is a method worth trying because if they accept your offer, you will sell your house more quickly than without negotiating the price with potential buyers.

The Bottom Line

When you want to sell your house quickly, there are many things that you can do. Nonetheless, starting with the tips we mentioned will help you make the first few steps on the road to successfully selling your home.

Remember to find an exceptional real estate agent, as they can help you advertise your property and share insights about the housing market in your area. Moreover, consider hiring a cleaning service, staging your home, and making a few minor improvements. This way, you can boost the value of your home, making the process of finding buyers for it much shorter. Good luck!


A Step By Step Guide To Caring For Your New Dentures

There are many benefits to having dentures fitted at any age. At the same time, many people associate dentures with the elderly; many people of all ages wear dentures and have done so for years. 

It is only natural to be wary of having your teeth removed and replaced with dentures, and it can cause a lot of worries and give you cause for concern. When your dentist starts the process of having custom dentures made for you, you must ensure a good fit and work closely with your dentist to allow them to get the mould correct for your mouth to avoid any damage or complications.

Benefits of having dentures can include;

However, having dentures fitted comes with a responsibility. Dentures can cost anywhere from £500 to £1500 in the UK, and this is a lot of money to pay out again if you damage or lose them.

The Denture Fitting Process

dentist

The process of having dentures requires taking an impression of your mouth where you will be wearing the dentures. This impression is used to create a mould from which your dentures will be created. The impression allows the technician to identify your mouth's correct space and shape for a better fit.


Next, the relationship with your upper and lower jaw will be registered to get a clear picture of your "bite".

You can try on your new denture in wax before your final dentures are made. At this point, your dentist can tweak and alter any things that aren't quite right or that you aren't quite satisfied with, ensuring that you have the best smile possible and that everything is exactly how you want it.

Your final appointment will be when you get your finished dentures, and you will be assessed for the correct fit and feel to ensure you are happy. At this point, you can ask any questions or get any last-minute adjustments, so you are happy before you leave.

From here, you can wear your new dentures as much or as little as you like. Remember, it may take a little time before you get used to your new dentures, so have patience and relax.

What do you need to do to prevent damage to your dentures?

Clean Hands Before Touching Dentures

The dental and denture clinic in Redcliffe, Australia "Enhanced Dental Studios" say that you should only handle your dentures with clean hands to avoid the possibility of introducing irritants or bacteria to your dentures and, by extension, your mouth.


Clean After Eating

Once you have eaten, remove your dentures and rinse them with water to remove any food or debris that has become trapped in them. Place them carefully on a towel or in a case to avoid accidentally dropping them on the floor or damaging them.

Handle Carefully

Try not to place or remove dentures when in a rush and always take care when handling them to reduce the risk of damaging them when positioning and cleaning them. If you notice any damage, you can get a mobile denture repair to have them fixed easily without too much disruption to your day.

Clean Your Mouth After Removing Dentures

When you have removed your dentures, you may find bits of food that have become trapped between your teeth or under your fitting. Always clean your youth with a soft toothbrush, including your remaining teeth if you have any. Use gauze to clean the roof of your mouth and cheeks, and tongue too. Use this time to remove any denture adhesive if applicable.

Brush Dentures Daily

Your dentures are your teeth for all intents and purposes and should be treated as such. Remove and clean your dentures daily. Soak your dentures, and then using a soft-bristled toothbrush or a denture specific toothbrush and a nonabrasive denture cleaner, remove any food or plaque build up along with any other deposits you may notice. Pay close attention to the grooves that fit against your mouth.

Soak Dentures Overnight

To enable your dentures to keep their shape, they need to stay moist. So when they aren't in your mouth, they need to be kept in water or a mild denture-soaking solution. Your dentist can advise you on the appropriate products to preserve the condition of your dentures, and you should always follow the manufacturer's instructions for storing and cleaning your dentures.

Rinse Dentures Before Wearing

Get into the habit of rinsing them thoroughly before wearing them every day. This is especially important if you soak your dentures in a solution. It is worth knowing that denture solutions can contain chemicals that can make you ill and experience any pain, burning or vomiting. You think it is due to your denture solution, consult your doctor for medical advice.

Regular Check-Ups

Your dentist will recommend you engage with regular checkups to assess the fit of your dentures, the condition and how you are coping with wearing them. At this point, you will be able to get them professionally cleaned and adjusted if required to reduce discomfort or slippage.

What To Avoid When Wearing Dentures

If you are experiencing any issues with your dentures, you should consult your dentist. It is also important that you avoid the use of any harsh chemicals around your dentures too. this includes;
  • No abrasive materials - avoid using stiff-bristled brushes, strong cleansers and harsh toothpaste.
  • Whitening toothpaste - whitening toothpaste often contains peroxide.
  • Bleach - any dental products containing bleach or household cleaners containing bleach can weaken dentures and alter their colour. Do not soak metal dentures in solutions that contain chlorine, as it can corrode the metal.
  • Hot water - hot water can damage and warp your dentures, ruining the fit.
  • When you have had dentures fitted, you should treat them with patience and care
  • to allow you to prolong the life of your dentures and avoid hefty repair bills. In any event, if your dentures are causing you pain or discomfort or the fitting has altered over time, always consult your dentist to allow them to check for any issues.

Once you're ready to replace your missing teeth, you can check out this dentist who does dentures, crowns, and quality dental implants in Chattanooga.


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How To Create The Perfect Garden Room Guest Annexe

There are several reasons why homeowners invest in a garden room, with one of the most common reasons being to provide their guests with their own space when they visit. A guest annexe is a perfect way of allowing your guests to have a level of independence when visiting your home, so you and your guests can have their own space. There are many ways you can design a guest annexe to meet your guests' needs, but for the best annexe, there are some core features that must be included to give the best experience…

home
There are three main rooms you will need in your guest annexe: a bedroom, bathroom and living area or kitchen space. These will allow your guests to live independently from your home in comfort and, hopefully, style! It may seem like you would need a large garden room to host all three of these spaces, but you would be mistaken. You can fit a bedroom, ensuite and small living space in even the smallest garden room. However, if you have the space to use, it is always best to give yourself as much room as possible for your guest garden room. Depending on how independent you want your space to be, you can choose whether to have a fully functional kitchen in your guest annexe or rather a small kitchenette and living room space. The choice is yours, with Hawksbeck Garden Rooms providing a completely bespoke service. 


bedroom


For your guest bedroom, it is difficult to strike a balance between fresh and airy, and warm and cosy. The best way to create both these styles is by choosing your lighting options carefully. Make sure there is a window in the bedroom, to ensure some natural ventilation of the room so it does not become stuffy and uncomfortable. 

Supplement this with bright downlights that light up the room during the daytime, and illuminate the lighter colours used in the room décor. When your guests want to get cosier in the evenings you can use warm lamps or wall lights, with a dimmer switch on the main downlights or spotlights to give them full control over the ambience. This will allow your guests to make the space feel like their own, with the control being firmly in their hands. When decorating your room, use lighter colours for the bedspread and walls, but ground these colours with darker coloured warm blankets and cushions. By doing this, you will balance both a cosy style with a fresh, inviting look!


bathroom

There are several ways you can design your bathroom to accommodate your guests, with a full luxurious bathroom or a smaller ensuite shower room. Depending on whether you want your garden room to be a retreat for your guests or a quick overnight accommodation, you can choose how luxurious you want it to be. With free-standing bathtubs, his and hers sinks and waterfall showers, you can create a retreat for your guests, and even rent your space out for romantic getaways! Hawksbeck Garden Rooms has designed many garden room annexes that have been used for hosting friends and family and hosting Airbnb guests.

Whichever way you decide to decorate your garden room, you can create the perfect guest annexe for friends, family, and strangers. Giving your guests their own space away from your family home can help them to feel more comfortable and give you and your family the privacy you need.


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Helpful Tips For Enjoying A Safe Summer With Your Family

With summer in full swing, many of us have started to resume life as normal and we are now starting to travel and enjoy days out with our families.

Although life has somewhat returned to a form of normality, the pandemic is still present and there are some steps that we should be taking to help us enjoy a safer summer with our families.

Protect Yourselves Against Hot Weather

woman on beach

Here, in the UK, we don’t experience the hottest of climates. However, we have experienced a heatwave or two this year with the possibility of more to come. It is vital that you protect yourself and your family against hot climates. Sun cream is a must and if you are travelling out for the day then it is advised that you take plenty of water to stay hydrated and a parasol of some sort so you can enjoy shade if you need it. This useful article gives you some top tips on how you can stay safe in the sun to help make your family summer a safe one to remember.

Travel Safely

If you are travelling out of the country for a holiday abroad, then it is vital that you take a Covid test before your departure. Without it, you may be denied the chance to board your flight. Luckily, both you and your family can book a private covid test in London on the same day. My Healthcare Clinic provides you with accurate results at a fast rate so you can take away the stress of going away knowing you can travel safely.

It is recommended that you choose your holiday destination wisely and do your research. Some countries are deemed safer than others, so it is important that you regularly check the news. It is also a sensible idea to pack hand sanitisers and face coverings in case you need them.

Reduce Risk of Injury


It is always advised that you keep an eye on your surroundings when out and about this summer. Local parks can pose a risk of injury. It is always helpful to check over any park facilities before you let your children play on them to reduce the risk of injury. Accidents can happen but by being vigilant you can stay aware of your surroundings and help to reduce the risk of this happening.

Avoid Bug Bites

As the weather heats up, bugs come out in full force. It is advised that you use insect repellent if you are going to an area that is prone to bugs. Bug bites can cause irritation to the skin and can be quite unpleasant, so it is useful to always pack an insect repellent in your bag in case you need it. You can get baby and child safe insect repellant which is especially useful if you are camping with babies and toddlers.  

This useful article gives you some great advice on how to treat and prevent insect bites when you are out and about with your family. You may find some of these tips very useful and they can certainly help you enjoy a safer summer.

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Kudd.ly Cooling Blanket Review

The warm weather is much appreciated in the UK at the moment. We are not known for having consistent sunny days and rain is always just around the corner so a hot spell of weather is wonderful. However, if you are like me you may have difficulty sleeping when the weather doesn't cool down at night. That is where a cooling blanket can help.  So I was grateful when kudd.ly sent me one of their new cooling blankets to review. This is a post in conjunction with kudd.ly but all opinions are my own. 

What is a cooling blanket?

cooling blanket

A cooling blanket is a weighted blanket designed to keep you cool. Weighted blankets have been around for a while now but cooling blankets are relatively new to the market. Weighted blankets are said to have many benefits, such as helping you to fall asleep easier, easing muscle tension and helping to soothe anxiety. 

My son has been using a weighted blanket for a while now and really likes using one. He finds it is so much easier to sleep when he is using one, in fact, sometimes I find it's hard to wake him up! So I was looking forward to trying out the new kudd.ly cooling blanket.

The kudd.ly cooling blanket

Kuddly

The kudd.ly cooling blanket is available in two colours, glacier grey and cooling mist. The one that was sent to me was the cooling mist, which is a very light mint green. 

The blanket is made of glass micro sand beads that move to your body's shape. It is made of temperature regulating material, using HydroCool™ technology, which the company states keep you cool at night. The size of the blanket is suitable for a single bed, as a throw on a double bed or as a blanket to keep you snug when you are on the sofa. 

cooling blanket

It weighs 5kg so it's not too heavy but you do feel the weight, keeping you snug and secure. 

My Experience

kuddly blanket

I must admit, I've never used a weighted blanket before so I wasn't sure if it would work for me. I tried it today for the first time as I had a bad night's sleep last night and was up until 3am. I used it for a daytime nap, I mean why not, and as I work from home I am taking full advantage of naps these days for productivity? I did feel the weight of the blanket initially, and I thought it would never work but I was asleep in less than 5 minutes. I woke up after 40 minutes feeling very rested! It was very warm outside being in the mid '20s but I didn't feel overheated at all. The material was soft and tactile as well which was nice. With a normal blanket, I would have definitely felt too hot. It just seemed to regulate my temperature and with the added benefit of the blanket being weighted, it didn't fall off at night.

I definitely plan to use the blanket now on hot days.  If you want to buy a kudd.ly cooling blanket you can buy direct from the kudd.ly website. The blanket is also machine washable so it's easy to keep clean.

Let me know, have you tried a weighted blanket? Would you give the kudd.ly™ cooling blanket a go?

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