May 2, 2019

A Short Travel Guide to Pennsylvania

pennsylvania scenery

Having traveled all around the world, we’ve had a ton of memorable experiences that we’ve shared on this blog. While most of our posts have been about highlighting  beauty, food, and people, every once in a while we like to feature  places that we have been to as well.

Our own United States of America, home to 50 states and several other jurisdictions,  is a repository of many different cultures coming from many different people from all walks of life.

What we particularly enjoy about traveling in the US are the scenic views. Some of them are so breathtaking, you can really feel the grandeur and the majesty of the landscapes. These landscapes can also evoke a sense of romanticism. When you’re with your significant other, you may even want to be spontaneous and get married right then and there!!

This is exactly what the state of Pennsylvania has to offer. During one of our trips, we had the opportunity to visit Pennsylvania and tour some of the most breathtaking spots in the state.

Talamore Country Club

We had the chance to visit Talamore Country Club during our last visit to the US. The country club can serve as a luxurious wedding venue especially during wedding season. We noticed a lot of lovey-dovey couples making inquiries at the reception area, and it’s easy to see why. With sprawling landscapes full of native flora and fauna accentuating the rustic feel of the club’s architecture, it really does evoke that romantic feeling every couple wants to have during their special day.

Cathedral of Learning

Our style of travel is not exactly one that can be described as “Instagrammable” or “backpacker-friendly”. We’re always sort of in the middle, just on the lookout for any new places or experiences and trying new things. So our visit to the University of Pittsburgh was very much right up our alley. And boy, were we really happy we did. We got to see the Cathedral of Learning, which was built in the Gothic style in the 1930s. The study hall was like something out of a medieval fairytale or the Great Hall of Hogwarts. Its imposing presence and high ceilings really made us feel like we had to wisen up.

Codorus State Park

Those of you who are more inclined to going on nature trips will surely appreciate Codorus State Park. When we went there, seemingly unending hues of blue and green really made us feel like we were in a different world. This state park is great for the number of outdoor activities you can do with your loved one if you are both into the outdoors. Hiking trails, horseback riding, and of course, fishing or boating on Lake Marburg are just some of the things in the area you can do. We really had fun riding around Codorus State Park ourselves.

Our trip to  Pennsylvania, was wonderful!

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May 2, 2019

The Ultimate Road Trip: How To Have A Safe And Fun-Filled Adventure on the Road

Road Trip

 

From TV shows to real life, road trips have become more than just a once in a blue moon affair. They have become a part of American culture. For the adventurous and free spirits, spontaneous road trips are sacred. However, there must still be ample preparation for it. Before heading out on the road, you must know the most important considerations and be ready for any contingency.

Whether you are planning your next trip to a not-so-nearby city or you are planning to have an exhilarating long drive just for the sake of it, these tips will surely get your gears turning and your heart jumping and thumping with excitement. Continue reading below to learn more about how to be safe while on a road trip.

1) Check The Condition Of Your Vehicle

Before anything else, you first need to assess the condition of your vehicle. There is nothing more disappointing than a cancelled road trip due to avoidable situations. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and check your brakes before you hit the road.

Also, check on your tires. Is the tread too worn out already? Are they still viable for a long drive? Consider these questions first and take immediate action. Moreover, check your tire pressure so you can avoid a blown out tire, which not only brings hassle and rains on the fun but can also have grave consequences such as when accidents occur.

If you ever get involved in a car accident, make sure to seek medical attention immediately. It is a good thing to know emergency hotlines and keep them on hand. Also, it is advisable to seek out the services of a lawyer than to outrightly and solely depend on the insurance company. Remember, a lawyer looks out for your best interests while insurance companies look out for cheaper compensations. If you ever get involved in a car accident while in New Jersey, you can visit https://www.dsslaw.com/jersey-city/car-accident-lawyer/ to find reliable and excellent legal services.

2) Make Sure The Driver Gets Enough Rest

Next to the car, the driver is the most important figure in this road trip. Make sure he or she gets a good night’s sleep before you all head out for a long road trip. If this is not possible, at least have another passenger who knows how to drive the vehicle (with an appropriate driver’s license, of course) so that they can change places from time to time to avoid drowsy driving.

Also, always check up on the driver and make sure he is comfortable. Make sure he does not feel sleepy and keep him entertained. Nevertheless, do not distract him while he is driving. Tell him not to shy away from taking power naps in between trips if he needs to. Stop the car at intervals and give the driver a chance to nap or drink a nice warm cup of coffee.

3) Always Have A First Aid Kit On Hand

Accidents happen, it is one of the harsh truths in life. While you never know when accidents may happen, it is always a good idea to be prepared. Whether it’s an 4-hour drive or a 16-hour trip, having a first aid kit handy is strongly recommended.

A well-stocked first aid kit should have a couple of bandages, antibiotic ointment packets, antiseptic wipes, non-latex gloves, gauze roll bandage, sterile gauze pads, non-mercury/non-glass oral thermometer, and alcohol. The Red Cross also lists 2 packets of aspirin (81 mg each) as another first kit must-have. Feel free to add basic over-the-counter medicines in there like Imodium (for diarrhea), age appropriate cough drops, cough suppressant or expectorant, and most importantly pain and fever medicine.

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May 2, 2019

How To Make Your Eyes Pop This Summer

We all know the dangers of the sunshine in the summer months, and we all know that wearing protective eye wear is essential to fight against the harsh rays. They are also the way to stop yourself from getting new wrinkles by squinting all the time!

With constant squinting, your eyes can look tired and be a total giveaway that you’re not wearing the right eye protection! However, there are so many ways that you can brighten your eyes and reduce the wrinkles appearing. You want your eyes looking healthy and bright all year, including the summer where you’re likely to take more selfies with your friends by the pool. Let’s take a look at some of the ways that you can ensure your eyes are whiter, brighter and healthier this year.

woman in sunglasses

White Eyeliner

The fastest and easiest way to brighten up your eyes is with white eyeliner. The eyeliner gives the whites of your eyes the illusion they have brightened up – even when they haven’t. There are plenty of eyeliner options on the market, but the MAC Fascinating one is perfect.

Wrinkle Reduction

It may sound like something you would never do, but eyelid surgery is a surefire way of reducing the look of those wrinkles from squinting at the sunshine. You can reduce puffiness and change the way that your eye shape sits – in a good way.

Shape Your Brows

Believe it or not, the shape of your eyebrows can change how bright your eyes look. They will frame your eyes and give you a more sophisticated look at the same time. Tidy brows make for tidy eyes; don’t forget that.

Realize Your Color Potential

Playing with different eye shadow colors can make a difference to the brightness of your eyes. Blue eyes go so well with a rust color, where brown and hazel eyes pop with bronze and gold. Once you work with the colors that will make your eyes stand out, you can really see the difference and feel so confident on the beach.

Moisturize

You may be moisturizing your face every day, but the skin around your eyes is thinner than the rest. You need to ensure that the moisturizer that you use here has a high SPF so that you don’t burn in the sunshine.

Sunglasses

We’ve mentioned this already, but you should remember that sunglasses will stop the skin around your eyes from aging prematurely. Not only that, but you’ll be able to see in the sun without squinting hard and looking too tired!

Avoid Chlorine

You should 100% go swimming this summer, but you should also choose to wear goggles if you’re swimming for exercise. You could react to the chlorine and find your eyes bloodshot and sore when you get out again. Instead, use goggles and ensure that you look after your eyes the best way that you can while you’re away.

Bright eyes for summer? Totally achievable in so many ways. Embrace them and be careful with your sight.

(Image source pixels.com)

 

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May 1, 2019

A Wine Lover Without a Wine Cooler? Come Shop With Us Now.

CleverMade’s Wine Cooler is perfect for all wine lovers. This makes a great gift for Mom or Dad or Me!!

It’s not just for wine but it’s great for beer and soft drinks too. It holds up to 6 beverage cans. It’s a must have for BYOB dinner parties, picnic lunches, concerts in the park and “Glamping” weekends.

This summer your guy might enjoy some time honing  in on his Frisbee accuracy with friends. The CleverMade Cooler is a great “take along”. (Frisbees and beer, always a fun summer combo).

The CleverMade Insulated Wine Cooler has many features like its portable size, detachable shoulder strap, removable cold gel packs, mesh pockets, and more.

CleverMade

SHOP IT HERE ON AMAZON

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May 1, 2019

Common Skin Complaints and What to do About Them

blemished skin

Common Skin Complaints and What to do About Them

Our skin is our largest organ- not to mention it’s the thing people see first when they’re speaking to you. Unlike hair that you can just shove a hat on if it’s acting up, your face is different, which is why our skin is so highly linked to our self esteem. Most of us have some form of skin issue or another, but if yours is effecting your life it’s time to do something about it. Here are some common skin complaints and what to do about them.

Acne

If your acne has been going on for a while and isn’t resolving (or is getting worse) the best thing you can do is visit the doctor instead of trying to treat it at home. Often, acne is a hormonal issue and needs more than just celebrity endorsed skincare and strange home remedies. In fact, these can make it worse. A doctor will be able to either help you directly or refer you to a dermatologist, but either way it’s about getting to the cause of the problem rather than just treating the spots which are a symptom. Acne can be painful, embarrassing and destroy self confidence. Don’t just suffer with it, take action and give your GP a call.

Blackheads

Blackheads appear on your skin due to clogged hair follicles. These bumps are called blackheads because the surface looks dark or black, as the sebum oxidizes with the air causing the dark appearance. They’re often found on the nose and can be unsightly and troublesome as they tend to keep reappearing. There are products that can help, charcoal derived from coconut shells is a great detoxifier and can help to remove these impurities from your pores. Face masks and pore strips are also good at getting rid of blackheads.

Dry skin

Dry skin feels uncomfortable and can flake off meaning it looks unpleasant. Makeup and fake tan won’t sit well over it, and in a bid to make yourself look better you can actually end up looking worse! Start by nourishing your body from the inside out, make sure you’re drinking enough water and eating hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables. Gentle exfoliation will remove the existing dry and dead skin, and allow any moisturizer you put on underneath to work much more effectively. If it’s summertime and you skin is dry, make sure you’re protecting it properly from the sun. Use SPF and a hat to shade your face, and stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day.

Redness

Unless the redness is caused by a medical issue like rosacea or flushing due to temperature changes (common in menopausal women) then redness is likely just to be how your skin is. Some people just have more red undertones than others, but if you hate your rosy cheeks there’s no need to fret. Use a green based concealer which works by colour balancing and neutralizing the red and pink shades. If you find a good foundation with enough coverage, this alone could do the trick.

(Photo credit: pexels.com)

 

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April 29, 2019

MODELHUNT, Errol Isip is the man behind the idea

MODELHUNT.com

The 2019 spring runways were the most diverse ever. The last New York Fashion Week opened with all plus-size models. And Madeline Stuart, the world’s first model with Down Syndrome, has been gracing the runways in New York and Europe since 2015. But does the industry need to be even more inclusive? Does it need to fully celebrate the infinite form of human beauty? We think YES!

MODELHUNT

That’s the vision behind the already much talked about MODELHUNT, the world’s most diverse model search taking place in Los Angeles, CA. in July. So why is everyone already buzzing about the event? It’s designed to break barriers and set new beauty standards while launching new modeling careers and inspiring the acceptance of one’s flaws and uniqueness.

Errol Isip is the man behind the idea. His nearly two decades in the fashion and events production world has taken him around the globe. In 2001, he became one of the Philippines’ youngest talent managers. He later moved to Dubai where he spent 12 years organizing and managing events for the biggest fashion luxury brands like Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Armani, and Stella McCartney, and jewelry brands like Bvlgari, Boucheron, and Pomellato just to a name a few. After moving to Los Angeles, he started his own fashion events firm and is currently the Casting Director and overall Choreographer for Los Angeles Fashion Week.

It wasn’t until recently that the modeling world began to make major strides in diversity. But still, Isip says the industry still has a ways to go in terms of fully embracing diversity.

MODELHUNT is his latest contribution to the movement, as it is a model competition like no other. Instead of just seeking “standard models,” they seek to find models in a wide range of categories representing different ages, genders, heights, sizes, looks and abilities.

Aspiring and professional models can submit their application and photos online at www.modelhunt.net. Following submission, they will be called in for a live screening and the top candidates for each category will be chosen to go through extensive training, mentoring, photo shoots, social media promotions and compete in the finals happening in July. This is where they’ll model in a fashion show in front of top talent agents and launch their new careers!

ModelHunt Categories:

Petite – Men 5’9 below Women 5’7 below 18+ yrs
Mainstream – Men 5’10 above Women 5’8 above 18+ yrs
Edgy – Men and Women with tattoo, piercings 18+ yrs
Mature – Men and Women 50+ yrs
Kids – 5 – 11yrs
Plus Size – Men and Women 18+ yrs
Trans – Men, Women, Non-Binary 18+ yrs
Teens – Boys and Girls 12 – 17yrs
Person with Disability – Men and Women 18+ yrs
Little Person – Men and Women 18+ yrs
Fitness – Men and Women 18+ yrs
Rising Influencer/Content Creator – no age restrictions

For more information visit modelhunt.net

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April 27, 2019

Did you know this about the modern zipper?

The modern zipper was invented by National Inventors Hall of Fame (NIHF) Inductee Gideon Sundback.

The Zipper S. Oliver Jeans

Improving on Whitcomb Judson’s design, Sundback is credited with making the zipper practical and commercially successful.

On National Zipper Day, April 29, celebrate Gideon Sundback’s improvement on something we use every day!

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April 27, 2019

Danessa Myricks Beauty Hosts International Stage at The Makeup Show NYC

Coming to The Makeup Show NYC May 5 & 6, is the FIRST-EVER International Stage sponsored by Danessa Myricks Beauty.

What is the International Stage? 

Participants will be taken through an electric journey of beauty around the globe in color, texture, and application with artists that have been hand selected by Danessa Myricks herself.

The stage will be a LIVE visual exploration that will showcase how makeup and the world of beauty unites us all.  Top artists will be flying in from Australia, Israel, England, Dublin, Mexico, Russia, and Germany.

Which artists are taking the stage? 

the make up show

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April 27, 2019

“10 Natural Ways to Reduce Insomnia.”

“10 Natural Ways to Reduce Insomnia.” Here they are:

It seems that any kind of problem a person may be dealing with can be resolved with patience and devotion. There are many recommendations and solutions to avoid experiencing the problem of insomnia, yet, people tend to find excuses and give reasons why they are unable to improve their lifestyle and resolve their problem with sleeping.

Reports and charts depicting how affected people with the problem of insomnia, are now announcing that every third person in the world is sleep deprived including young teenagers and adolescents.

Well, here we will try one more time to give some good guidance on how to avoid and deal with insomnia in a completely natural way. Moreover, that is all you have to do, just try to live more naturally.

 

wide awake girl

 

Re-establish your Natural biological cycle

Human’s natural biological cycle is 24h long, 7-9 hours of which are reserved for sleeping. Our brain uses our senses to control the feelings and needs throughout the 24h period. However, the very artificial environment we live in today, confuses our brain and disturbs the natural balance, interfering with our healthy sleeping schedule.

First of all, it is advisable to go to bed at least before midnight and to practice going to bed every day in the same time. Get up in the early morning, again every day in the same time. Expose yourself as much as you can on sunlight, or let the daylight fill your office or home. Your body will know it’s daytime and will boost you with energy and when the night comes get away from too much artificial light from screens. Your body needs to know it’s dark outside and stream some melatonin.

Eat natural and healthy food

Eat healthy, fresh food dense with good nutrients for your body. Stay away from stimulants, like drinking too much coffee. The caffeine from the coffee, tea or other drinks gets stored into the body and causes difficulties with sleeping. Avoid processed foods and sugars, they influence heavily the chemical reactions and hormone secretions in your body, disturbing your normal biological cycle.

Do not eat at least 2-3 hours before bedtime.

Provide a healthy sleeping Environment

It is advisable to sleep in a room with  fresh air and moderate temperature. Investing in quality mattress and even more important in a good pillow it will sure enhance your sleeping quality. Good support for your body, spine and head is important for uninterrupted sleep and your overall health. Moreover, you may realize that the problem with insomnia is completely linked with you not feeling comfortable in your sleeping environment.

Sometimes the feeling of coziness instantly promotes great relaxation and peace. Find some pleasing bed sheets, pajamas and of course a weighted blanket.

sleeping environment

Stay away from Screens

The light from the screens sends messages to your brain that is still not time to fall asleep, therefore, suppressing the secretion of the melatonin. Trying to fall asleep in front of the TV or computer will chase away the sleepy feeling and will make you feel tired and lightheaded.

Exercise

Exercise is great for your overall health. It helps you gain strength, build muscle mass, boost your energy and also promotes a sound sleep. Exercise helps in releasing of hormones that promote happiness and satisfaction.

The best exercise when it comes to beating insomnia should be a moderate outdoor training for 30 min a day at least. Moreover, you can add some aerobics or aay preferred sport few times a week. Everybody loves exercising, you just need to find the most appealing sport for you and stick to it. Your brain and body will reward you with a good night sleep.

Spend some quality “Me Time”

Regaining your balance, and finding peace with yourself is crucial for physical and psychological health. It is advisable to practice this in the evening before your sleep time. Finish all of the chores and al the stressing for the day, leave your phone and gadgets in other room and find a peaceful place to just enjoy your existence.

The best way to observe your body, your mind, and your feelings is through mindfulness meditation. Meditation has many health benefits: reduces stress and anxiety, improves concentration and self-esteem and promotes good, sound sleep. For the first-timers it may be hard at the beginning, but getting into meditating can be easier through breathing techniques and guided meditation. You can find many helpful apps and videos, or you can join a weekly class to stay motivated.

Drink Tea

Valerian tea is used to improve the sleeping quality and to ease anxiety. Taking a cup of valerian tea one hour before going to bad might work as a sedative and help you easily fall asleep. It can also be taken as a supplement.

Other herbs that are used for making tea as to help reduce insomnia are: Lemon balm, chamomile, passion flower and St. John’s wort.

Take a warm shower before bed

The heat of the water calms down your nervous system, relaxes the muscles and encourages the sleepy feeling. Moreover, the cleaning of your body also helps the feeling of the ending of the day, it’s showered off of your shoulders and you are ready to recharge.

Aromatherapy

Using some of the soothing essential oils may help you relax and fall asleep. As mentioned before, several drops of lavender, chamomile and ylang-ylang oil on your pillow or in your warm bath will work miracles for your sweet dreams. You can also try aromatic candles.

Massage

A relaxing massage using essential oils is the perfect way to relax and forget all about insomnia. If your partner agrees to help you reduce the insomnia problems, there is no such powerful remedy as the combination of a good massage, the soothing scent of lavender and love.

Images:

“Copyright: Unsplash/author: Alexandra Gorn/ I License: CC0 Public  Domain”

“Copyright: Unsplash/author: Logan Nolin / I License: CC0 Public  Domain”

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April 26, 2019

Here’s How You Could Start Dressing with Confidence

Dressing with Confidence – The clothes that you wear really can say a lot about you, and for this reason, you need to make sure that they reflect your personality. If you don’t then you may find that you just don’t feel confident in anything you wear, and this can have an impact on your self-esteem.

Find your Colours

The first way for you to dress with confidence is to know exactly what looks good, and what doesn’t. The deciding factor is knowing what colours suit your hair colour and even your complexion too. If you are stuck here, then it is always a good idea to look up celebrities who have a similar skin tone to you. Then, look at the clothing that they wear, the colours they embrace and even the style too. This will help you to find something that suits you equally as much.

Your Shape

Knowing what body shape you have is a key factor when you are trying to dress with confidence. You don’t need to be thin in order to dress with confidence, but you do have to make sure that you dress for the shape that you have. It doesn’t matter whether you have an apple body shape or even a pear, because dressing for your shape can make a huge difference.

Your Strengths

When you have found specific clothing items that suit your body shape, you then need to think about your other strengths too. If you have a figure that is curvier then you may feel more commanding in a flowing dress, rather than a pantsuit for example. If you are tall and want to emphasize this then vertical stripes will do that. By choosing a really flattering shape for your body, you can then end up with a well-coordinated outfit that will really compliment your style.

Personal Style

It’s so important that you wear clothing that makes you feel comfortable. It doesn’t matter how good you look because if you don’t feel comfortable then you will never feel confident. The outfit is usually the first thing that people see when they look at you, so making sure that you are happy with what you are wearing is crucial.

 

woman shopping

 

The Occasion

Another way to dress with confidence is to make sure that you consider the occasion you’ll be attending. It’s really not easy to feel confident when you are under-dressed, so make the effort and also make sure that you are dressed in an outfit that is appropriate for where you’ll be going.

Comfort Level

It doesn’t matter whether you are someone who likes to cover up more or even less because it helps to be aware of how much skin you are actually showing. If you feel as though you are not covered up enough, or too much then this can make you feel confident as well, so do keep that in mind when selecting your outfit.

Accessories

Choosing the right accessories can really help you to feel more confident. Sometimes a nice watch or even a necklace can bring out your inner fashion guru and it can also compliment your outfit perfectly as well. If you are stuck when choosing accessories, then it is a good idea for you to choose something that complements an outfit that you have. For example, if you have a low-cut top then a large necklace would be a great choice.  If you are wearing a formal pantsuit then try and opt for something that is a little more delicate. By doing this, you can then really bring out the personality of any outfit that you choose to wear, and you can also really boost your look. Of course, if you find something that you think looks great but you’ve never seen anyone pair that combination together before, then don’t worry. If you think it looks great then you should go for it because fashion is about experimentation and you never know when the next trend is around the corner. As always, remember that it’s never too late for you to start rewriting the rules of women’s clothing!

(Photo from: www.pexels.com)

 

 

 

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