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Make Your Own Pumpkin Spice Delights with These Recipes

Make Your Own Pumpkin Spice Delights with These Recipes

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Starbucks isn’t the only one dabbling in all things pumpkin. If you’re one of those people who enjoys the sweet but tangy taste of pumpkins with a little bit of spice, then these recipes will surely satisfy your autumn cravings. Pumpkin is one of the unique flavors in the beverage and cocktail world. While it’s not the most versatile, there are numerous pumpkin delight recipe flavored mixed drinks that you can do in minutes.

Here are some of the popular pumpkin recipe drinks that you can make with these recipes!

Pumpkin Spice Latte

When fall arrives, you rush to your local coffee place and order a pumpkin spice latte. But wouldn’t it be nice to create your Pumpkin Spice Latte at home? This recipe will surely give you autumn vibes even when you’re at home. It’s easy, and it takes under 10 minutes to make.

Polished Princess

If you want to taste pumpkin-flavored drinks, but scared about the strength of its flavor, then the lovely Polished Princess is perfect for you. This drink is an excellent way to ease into this kind of beverages. It will give you the right amount of pumpkin pie flavor without getting overwhelmed by it.

For autumn, this drink is fantastic and a simple vodka martini. It could be paired with a vanilla vodka with fresh cranberries and a pinch of pumpkin spice. With the help of the egg white, it has a terrific texture that anyone can enjoy.

Apple Pumpkin Beer Cocktails

Apple Pumpkin Beer is like a pumpkin pie had a baby with an apple pie and it’s glorious. This recipe is perfect for people who aren’t ready to be exclusive with a pumpkin cocktail. You can easily prep this recipe by combining more bourbon, apple cider, and of course, pumpkin beer.

Pumpkin Spice Martini

Make your own ginger vodka while you still have leftover pumpkin puree from yesterday’s party. You’ll enjoy this pumpkin spice cocktail recipe. With lime and honey water, the play of spicy ginger against the puree is quite interesting as they bring it together admiringly. Consider adding a sprinkle of pumpkin spice for a simple seasonal garnish for any of these drink recipes.

The Great Pumpkin

This drink is by far the best recipe that compliments the pumpkin flavor and makes it delicate, not overly done like others. The Great Pumpkin is an exceptional cocktail with a unique ingredient. You’ll be able to pull off this drink by creating a pumpkin-infused Scotch whiskey that is a natural infusion to do at home.

Although it will take about two days to make, it is indeed worth the effort. It is paired with maple syrup, lemon juice, and ginger liqueur with a dash of cinnamon. One sip and you’ll instantly fall in love.

Take a look at these recipes and satisfy your autumn cravings with these cocktail drinks. This will surely step up your game when it comes to parties and social events. After having a fun and fantastic party at home, you should hire a professional house cleaning service to give you a much-deserved break.  

Tasty, but Healthy, Snacks For Your Kids!

Tasty, but Healthy, Snacks For Your Kids!

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Getting your kids to eat healthy snacks isn’t as easy as giving them those sugary sweets that they always love. As parents, you should be stepping up your game to make your children choose fun healthy snacks for kids such as fruits and vegetables over salty, high-fat snacks. After all, your choice of your kids’ meals can decide the fate of their health.

Don’t restrict their diets to just crackers and cookies. Remember that the perfect snack has a combination of fiber, some protein, and a little bit of fat. With this combo, your children will surely be satisfied and fueled to take on their busy days and also take as homemade healthy snacks for school.

Your search for the tastiest and healthiest snacks ends here. Here are some typical, nutritious food for your kids that they will surely enjoy!

Low-Fat Yogurt

Yogurt alone is not enough; as parents, you should buy your kids low-fat yogurt, which is an excellent source of calcium. Not only that but introducing it as a nutritious snack is a piece of cake!

Turn a low-fat yogurt in a multi-fruit yogurt parfait by showering it into a variety of berries, or whip up a homemade fruity yogurt. You can also use Greek yogurt, which has a lot more protein than the regular ones.

Whole Grain Pancakes

Pancakes are indeed everyone’s morning best friend. But to make them tastier, softer, and healthier, try using whole grain flour. Add more flavor and serve it with toasted nuts, chopped fruits, and a drizzle of maple or honey syrup.

It will be a definite hit, not only with the kids but also with adults too. Try preparing this in the morning, and your family will spread good and healthy vibes throughout the day!

Hummus

Hummus is a fantastic dip for children and is made from pureed chickpeas. One bite and a yummy nutty flavor explode. It’s thick enough not to be super messy and contains vitamin B6, folate, and iron.

The great idea is to serve hummus with vegetables or salt-free crackers. Check out these recipes for hummus with veggies to prepare for your kiddos!

Nuts and Raisins

Have you ever wondered why chocolate brands usually have flavors with nuts and raisins–the ultimate combo? Companies know that people, especially your kids, could use the protein, fiber, minerals, and vitamins.

Don’t you worry if your child is a picky eater, you can always improvise on a yummy baked snack they won’t be able to refuse? He or she won’t even know there are nuts and raisins in them.

Eggs

Of course, we couldn’t leave out eggs, could we? Nutritionists say that one egg can provide a 4-year-old child with about a third of protein requirements for the entire day. Stock a bunch of hard-boiled eggs in your fridge, or cook scrambled eggs for your kids in the morning for breakfast. They can eat them with whole wheat bread or rice!

Smoothies

Let’s move on to the most effective snack yet–smoothies! Not only will your kids get crazy over these deliciously sippable cold treats, but you can put in any nutritious ingredients in them without your child suspecting a thing!

Simply add all the fruits that your children don’t want to eat. Blend them with low-fat milk or yogurt, and you’re ready to go! Take a look at these recipes for more smoothie ideas.

Keeping your kids eating healthy snacks isn’t as hard as it seems. Use this guide to help you out and avoid a stressful tug-of-war with your kids. And don’t forget, aside from healthy eating, you should always maintain a clean home too! You can always have a professional cleaning service to do the job for you.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Tips for Your Home by Natural Cleaning Services Whittier CA

DIY 101: Eco-Friendly Cleaning Tips for Your Home

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Natural and green cleaning products are a new way to make your house spotless while maintaining it safe, non-toxic. In your pantry, there are some items like baking soda and vinegar are excellent cleaners and cheap.

Here are some safe ingredients that you can use for your homemade green cleaning solutions.

Baking Soda

One of the trusted cleaning agents, baking soda cleans, deodorizes, and scours. This works best on proteins, grease, and animal messes. Because it’s slightly abrasive, it can be used for scrubbing—and, of course, it’s a natural deodorizer.

Soap

Unscented soap in liquid form—along with powders, and bars—is biodegradable, eco-friendly, and will clean just about anything. Castile soap is one example of an outstanding, all-around cleaning ingredient. Don’t forget to avoid using soaps that may contain petroleum distillates.

White Vinegar

Use white vinegar to cut grease; remove mildew, odors, and some stains; and to prevent or remove wax build-up. This mild acid works on alkaline substances, dissolving scale, inhibiting mold, and cutting soap scum. It’s terrific for stains such as coffee, rust, and tea.

Washing Soda

Washing soda, or SAL Soda, is a mineral that is made out of sodium carbonate decahydrate. It cleans grease, removes stains and cleans walls, tiles, sinks, and tubs. You must use with care since washing soda can irritate mucous membranes and do not use on aluminum.

Vegetable or Olive Oil

Olive oil is more than being a healthy cooking oil. It’s also a cleaning tool that can nourish surfaces and loosen stains, grease, and grime. Use in homemade wood polishes.

Alcohol

Alcohol is an excellent disinfectant. However, some safety concerns with isopropyl alcohol (also known as rubbing alcohol) make other forms of alcohol the more careful choice. Vodka is a strong odor remover, and different types of ethanol (grain alcohol) can be used for cleaners and disinfectants.

Citrus Solvent

Citrus solvent cleans paint brushes, oil and grease, and some stains. But beware, a citrus solution may cause skin, lung or eye irritations for people with multiple chemical sensitivities.

Oxygen Bleach

Oxygen-based bleach (usually made from sodium carbonate and peroxide) delicately removes stains, whitens fabric, and has some applications in household stain removal. Many familiar brands of oxygen bleaches have some added (and less benign) chemicals, so it’s best to look up the brand before working with it.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen Peroxide is a common disinfectant used to treat wounds, but you can also use it to disinfect your kitchen or bathroom. It has a mild bleaching effect that makes it an excellent stain remover for grout and fabrics. Although it may cause any skin or respiratory irritation, so handle with care and be cautious.

To get you started, here are a few recipes, techniques and benefits of green cleaning!

Glass

In a spray bottle, combine 1/4 cup of vinegar with one quart of water. Spray the solution on the glass and use an old newspaper or lint-free cloth to wipe clean.

Countertops and bathroom tiles

To create the mixture, mix two parts of vinegar, one part of baking soda and four parts of water. Then, apply with a sponge to scour and wipe away any filth on your countertops or tiles.

Floors

With a gallon of hot water, pour four cups of white distilled vinegar in a bucket. If you want to add some scent, you can add a few drops of lemon oil or pure peppermint. The smell of vinegar will disappear after damp mopping the floors and leave the scent of the oil behind.

Wood furniture

Combine one part of lemon juice and one part of olive and oil. Apply a small amount to a cloth and rub onto the furniture with long and even strokes.

Toilet bowl cleaner

Sprinkle baking soda on your toilet brush and scrub away. You can also disinfect your toilet by cleaning with borax instead, then wipe the exterior of the bowl with straight vinegar.

To make sure that your home is shining and spotless, hire a professional house cleaning service. You can always ask them if they use green cleaning service and eco-friendly cleaning products. Let’s help save the earth by using environment-friendly products.

Children's Online Safety–How Can You Do It

Children’s Online Safety – How Can You Do It?

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Let’s face a harsh truth–even if the internet can help with your child’s education and entertainment, it can be a nasty place. One click of your kid’s search for ‘bunnies’ can turn up other things that aren’t lovely animals.

Between malware, explicit content, predators, and other harmful factors, parents find themselves in an endless cycle of doom and gloom as they keep their children safe from threats online.

It is indeed a tricky situation without a perfect solution, and it can be difficult to know where to start. You can opt for antivirus software, parental blocks, child-friendly browsers, and the plan to entirely ban the internet altogether.

The first thing you need to keep internet safety for children is for you to be educated about the possible threats they can be exposed to and the measures you can apply to neutralize them.  

Here are the most common internet safety facts, hazards that your children might encounter on the internet and what to do about them.

 

Password Hacking and Sharing

At a young age, children can trust easily, so it’s not much of a surprise that they sometimes share their private passwords with friends. Unfortunately, this can lead to your kid’s account being hacked. The hacker may pose as your child and post distressing or embarrassing content on social media or send threatening private emails that people may think came from your kid.

Continuously update your antivirus protection.

It’s an essential thing that your child doesn’t share his or her passwords, but it’s also as critical to install antivirus software and update it. It is one of the best ways to secure all your gadgets and devices against hackers and cyber threats.

Use strong, unique passwords.

It can be a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters with numbers and characters. Frequently remind your young one not to share their passwords with anyone but you. Also, don’t forget to make sure that their usernames aren’t easy to guess.

Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying is a common online threat, and it is indeed no joke. The Cyberbullying Research Center says that there is more than 27% of children bullied online. In grave instances, this kind of act can lead the victim to commit suicide.

Report the harassment.

Often remind your child to be open to you about any offensive or hurtful messages they receive, and make them feel that they’re not alone. Keep a record of the harassment and if necessary, report the problem to your local law enforcement agency.

Block the bullies.

If your kid is being harassed through email, social media, or instant messaging, strengthen the account’s privacy setting and block the cyberbully immediately. You can go to stopbullying.gov to learn more about the prevention of cyberbullying.  

Online Predators

You may have heard of cases where teens receive unwanted solicitation through the internet. Predators usually use social media to learn everything about their victims like the home address, likes and dislikes, school, and event location.

Monitor your child’s online activities.

Keeping track of your kid’s online activities, periodically checking their social media accounts, and talking to them about anything that bothers them is a great way to protect them. You can use apps to track their web history, messages, phone calls, and GPS location.

Openly talk about the issue.

Make your child feel comfortable talking about the issue, and use age-appropriate language when explaining the threats of online predators. Help them secure their social media accounts and tell them to inform you immediately if something like this happens to them.

Identity Theft

More often than parents realize, kids are the most usual victims of identity theft. They are primary targets because they tend to post a lot of personal information online. Plus, they also have clean credit records.

Keep personal data private.

Never allow your kid to post things like their full name, birthday, or complete address publicly. Tell them not to give out information without asking you first and refrain them from taking online quizzes or surveys that require personal data because criminals can use these to steal identities.

Often check credit reports.

Be aware of the signs of identity theft and often check your kid’s credit report at least once a year. This can alert you to possible fraud and give you enough time to correct their credit before they need to use it. In case your child becomes a victim, you can file a complaint with the IC3.

Your children are your most prized possession, and you would do everything to protect them in the real and virtual world. Take these tips to help you do the task! Monitoring their online activities can take much of your time, so leave other chores like cleaning your house to the professionals and save your time keeping your kid safe!

Friendliest Houseplants for Your Cats and Dogs

Friendliest Houseplants for Your Cats and Dogs

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Trying to make both your pets and houseplants to co-exist harmoniously in your home can be quite a challenge. As well-behaved as your pet may seem to be, there can be times when it will just take a bite out of your greens. And no, it’s not just the case of your plant ruined, but what if by chance it was poisonous? That’s why choosing the right kind of plants is a smart measure to take.

To prevent this from happening, here are some houseplants that are safe for your pets.

Spider Plant

Spider plants hold the record for the easiest kind to care for, they grow well in low-light conditions and help sanitize the air in your home. They come in varieties and thrive in a wide range of conditions. They need a reasonable amount of water and need to dry out in between watering. If you have troubles keeping plants alive, then this one’s not only for your pets but you too.

Bamboo Palm

Bamboos are non-toxic plants and therefore are safe for your pets to chew on, not that you want them to though. It’s also easy to grow indoors and is another air-cleaning plant. You can keep them in indirect or bright sunlight, and when watering, make sure that you use room-temperature filtered water only when the soil feels dry. They can grow up to 12 feet high with a width of 5 feet.

Echeveria

If you’re a huge fan of succulents or plants that don’t need much water, the Echeveria is an excellent, pet-friendly choice for you! This type of plant is drought-tolerant and can tolerate extreme temperatures, including frost. With proper tender love and care, making sure they get plenty of light and keeping their soil moist, you and your pets can enjoy its beauty in sight. It’s a versatile plant great for decorating, too!

Boston Fern

If there’s one thing that you can learn from Garfield the Cat, it’s that ferns are non-toxic and cat friendly indoor plants and for dogs. Boston Ferns are the easiest type of ferns to care for. They are great in high humidity with indirect light, so you may consider hanging them in the bathroom, ensuring that they get the humidity at dimness they need. Aside from that, they can serve as a fantastic aesthetic and can add charm to your bathroom.

Ponytail Palm

Another succulent pet-friendly houseplant is the ponytail palm. It looks like a palm with long, thin leaves, and a thick trunk–another exciting choice for home decoration. Although it does best in bright light, ponytail palms can also thrive in any lighting conditions. Even if you keep it indoors half the year, it can still survive–provided you have exposed it to sunlight during the other half. It’s a wonderful option if a small indoor tree is what you’re looking for because it grows up to 3 feet tall.

Pets and plants usually don’t get along, but some houseplants can be downright dangerous for your furry friends. So if you want something that can live with your pets, check out these non-toxic plants safe for your cats and dogs! All these given to you by Oasis Natural Cleaning, who can match you with the best cleaning pros who can help you clean any mess your pets and plants might make.

Easy Ways To Get a Better Night’s Sleep

Easy Ways To Get a Better Night’s Sleep

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Modern life is hectic and getting a great night’s sleep is essential for your health and well-being.

Do you have problems sleeping at all?

If so, there are 5 really simple ways on how to get a better night sleep from preparation during to the day to make your bedroom into a sanctuary conducive to optimal sleep.

1) Get More Natural Light in The Day

You can give your chances of sleeping better a real boost long before you make it into the bedroom. Your body is regulated by a natural time-keeping system known as the circadian rhythm.

By getting ample natural sunlight during the day, you keep this system ideally balanced, which in turn promotes how to better sleep. If you live somewhere that sunlight is sorely lacking, consider investing in a bright light appliance to get the next best thing.

2) Avoid Daytime Naps if Possible

Even if you’re tired from cleaning the kitchen or dusting the stairway, try at all costs to avoid sleeping during the day. This disrupts your circadian rhythm and, if you nap for too long, you can end up feeling sluggish rather than rested.

If you absolutely must take a siesta, limit it to 20 minutes, and you should wake rejuvenated without any negative impact on your sleep that night.

3) Keep Things Dark At Night

And just as you should brighten your day, you should darken your night. Make sure you keep everything in the bedroom nice and dim.

Not only is this more romantic – think candlelight rather than searing light bulbs – but you’ll also be better placed to ease toward dreamland. Your brain needs to be reminded that it’s time to go to sleep, and bright screens or lighting in your bedroom will prevent that.

4) Cut Back on The Coffee

Once you’re finished up cleaning the coffee maker, it can be tempting to reward yourself with a nice latte.

Check the clock, though.

We all know caffeine is a stimulant, so make a tweak here. Rather than simply sidestepping coffee late at night, try implementing an earlier cut-off point around mid-afternoon. Coffee stays in your bloodstream for 6 or 7 hours, so it’s well worth pulling the rug on those early evening cappuccinos.

Switch to a non-caffeinated drink instead, and you’ll notice a miraculous difference when it comes time to drop off, and your system is not filled with coffee.

5) Keep Sleep Times Consistent

While you might find hitting the gym or doing laundry every day dull, having a routine is important for your sleep cycle, as you get your brain used to a strict rhythm. 

Although it’s tempting to lounge in bed at the weekends and to stay up later partying, as a general rule try to keep the times you go to bed and wake up relatively consistent. 

The body thrives on routines and sticking to a rigid sleep schedule will ensure you have more chance of hitting that elusive 8-hour target.

Cleaning Service

Perhaps you’re just starting to overcome insomnia, and you’re finally managing to get an improved sleep. 

But you’re still tired. Too tired for housework, perhaps.

If so, hiring a house cleaning service is a smart way to make things easy on yourself without sacrificing a natural home.

Catch Amazing Fourth of July Fireworks Shows in these SoCal Spots

Catch Amazing Fourth of July Fireworks Shows in these SoCal Spots

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Fourth of July is right around the corner, and you need to start planning your itinerary for firework viewing in Southern California. Independence Day isn’t complete without those colorful, loud, decorative explosions in the night sky.

If you’re wondering where is the best place to spend 4th of July in California with your family and friends during the occasion, then you have to wonder no more. We’ve rounded up all the fantastic spots from all over the region where you can head to immediately.

Here are the Southern California places to celebrate the Fourth of July

Hollywood Bowl

Celebrate another year of Independence in one of L.A.’s most iconic amphitheaters. Head over to the Hollywood Bowl that hosts the event with a concert and dazzling fireworks. When they start playing The Star Spangled Banner, it’s difficult for any patriotic American to resist getting emotional when the rocket launches at the perfect moment.

Pasadena Rose Bowl

If you want to witness one of the most epic fireworks display ever, then go to the Pasadena Rose Bowl. It has been going an for more than eight decades, and a lot of locals and tourists alike continue to visit the place. AmericaFest is a booming celebration of all things white, blue, and red. You’ll enjoy it!

Long Beach

Are you ready to celebrate Independence Day on both land and sea? If so, then Long Beach is your go-to option. Be amazed by a spectacular fireworks display aboard the Queen Mary where you can also take part in various activities and patriotic-themed events. There’s also a concert where the whole family will enjoy.

Fairplex

If you want a bit of action and ‘kaboom‘ on your Independence Day bash, then what can you say about monster trucks, motocross, and fireworks combined? In Pomona, you can interact with the riders and get their autographs, take a picture with an actual Monster Truck and buy all sorts of memorabilia. Then later at night, have fun watching an explosion of colors in the night sky–red, white, and boom!

Disneyland

Well, it’s true that every day seems like the Fourth of July in Disneyland because it shoots off fireworks every night. But still, imagine the fun that you can have by spending the day at the amusement park and end the evening with a magical night with a sky filled with colorful fireworks.

Marina del Rey

There’s nothing more exciting than watching a firework show over the ocean. Annually in Marina del Rey, locals and tourists gather over to witness the display. You can view from the shore at either the Fisherman’s Village or at the Burton Chace Park. Another choice is from the water where you can get an ultimate close-up view from a yacht. Make your reservations as early as possible, so you don’t miss out!

Hollywood Forever Cemetery

As the sun goes down, the volume goes up! Get settled into Hollywood Forever Cemetery for a Fourth of July celebration. Enjoy a movie screening while having a picnic on the grass for a fantastic fireworks show after. There’s also a DJ and a photo booth to take things to the next level. What are you waiting for? Get tickets now!

Big Bay Boom!

The Big Bay Boom Fireworks display is the largest show in San Diego County. It is impeccably choreographed for 17 minutes that are discharged strategically around the Harbor Island, Bay off Shelter Island, Embarcadero North and South, Seaport Village, and Coronado Ferry Landing.

Independence Day commemorates freedom so set yourself free from all responsibilities like managing the household and have fun watching a fireworks show. Mark all these best 4th of July fireworks in southern California and make your reservations.

You need not worry about cleaning your home because a trusted professional cleaning service can help you out with that. Just go and be free! Enjoy!

Best California Beaches to Go with Your Family This Summer

Best California Beaches to Go with Your Family This Summer

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Summer is a time for having adventures, visiting new places, or spending time together with family. Several of the most famous of the sand-swept shores are right here in Southern California. If you want a beach that is kid-friendly, read on to learn more about California beaches for families!

Here are best beaches in California for families this summer!

 

Laguna Beach

North of Main Beach lies several miles of wilderness preserved at Crystal Cove State Park. The beaches there are combed with tide pools, which are popular with children, and extraordinary beauty. Dolphins and sea lions can be seen playing in the coves because the water is nearly translucent.

At Ruby’s Shake Shack you can have an ice cream shake while overlooking the historic district of Crystal Cove and discover the reason why this is a favorite beach of Orange County locals.

Westward Beach, Malibu

This lovely stretch of sand is private and charming. The giant cliffs provide a stunning backdrop for your family’s beach day. Hike up the Point Dume path, and you may catch a glimpse of body surfing dolphins or climbers rappelling the rocky cliff.

Tip for young swimmers: This north-facing beach’s surf breaks shallow and close to shore so make sure to keep an extra eye on beginners at the water’s edge. Take note that the lifeguard tower is only manned in peak summer season.

Aliso Creek Beach

With a playground right on the sand and fire pits to boo, Aliso Creek Beach is ideal for Orange County locals. Shore break can be shallow, which means that the water gets deep quick and the waves have a strong pull so be cautious when letting small kids play in the waves.

The primary reason why skimboarders love this beach is its shorebreak, and watching them is a great, and fun experience.

Malibu Lagoon State Beach

A bird sanctuary. Surfers to watch. Rocky outliers and sandy swimming spots. This beach is excellent for young kids, or even adults, who need to explore new and different environments constantly.

It’s walking distance from the Malibu pier, where you can grab lunch at Malibu Farm or rent poles and go fishing for your dinner.

It’s also a perfect place to bring visitors or grandparents who love to tour the Adamson House, a Spanish Colonial Revival home that has the best surviving examples of decorative ceramic tile produced by Malibu Potteries.

Zuma Beach

The vast stretch of sand, crystal waters and the chance to spot celebrities attract Angelinos and tourists to Zuma Beach. The lifeguard towers and snack bars make it an ideal summer beach for families to enjoy.  Kids will love swimming, watching surfers, and flying kites.

La Jolla Cove

Located in San Diego, California’s second largest city, here you can enjoy year-round of sunshine and 70 miles of dazzling coastline. La Jolla Cove is nestled between sandstone cliffs, this tiny jewel of a beach gives way to a full, gorgeous blue-green bay. Snorkelers and scuba divers can explore waters swarming with marine life, including orange Garibaldi fish, with the help of La Jolla Underwater Park Ecological Reserve.

Before the summer ends, make it your top priority to spend quality time with your family as you explore various beaches along the Southern California coast. While you’re out having the time of your life, you can always count on a trusted house cleaning service. They will keep your home clean, and when you arrive, it will feel more like home.

Having Problems Sleeping at Night - Not Anymore With These Tips

Having Problems Sleeping at Night? Not Anymore With These Tips!

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After a long tiring day of work, a good night’s sleep is what you’ll look forward to the most. But what if the Sandman forgot to visit your home and you have trouble getting a shut eye? What will you do?

Sleeping disorder is a matter that you should take seriously. In case you didn’t know, research shows that poor sleep at night has detrimental effects on your brain function, exercise performance and hormones. Not only that, but it can also cause weight gain and an increased risk of disease for both adults and children.

Therefore, having enough and good sleep can help you exercise better, perform tasks more efficiently, and control your diet. That’s why if you experience trouble sleeping, you should take note of some things.

 

Here are some useful tips for home remedies for sleep:

 

Set a sleeping schedule and stick with it–no matter what.

Going to and getting out of bed at the same time every day can help set your body’s internal clock and improve the quality of your sleep. Pick a time when you usually feel tired, so you can easily commit and observe this habit.

 

Stop taking caffeine after 2 PM.

Yes, that means no coffee, no tea, and no soda. Although caffeine provides some benefits– it stimulates your mind and enhances your focus—it will stay in your system for about 8 hours. Therefore, having caffeine inside you after 2 PM will make it harder for you to sleep at night.

 

Exercise at the right time.

Exercising can optimize the quality and length of sleep, but note that it shouldn’t be done within 4 hours before you sleep. At least 30 minutes of cardio exercise keeps your body temperature elevated for 4 hours. When your body is about to cool down, it alerts your brain to release melatonin, which will make you feel drowsy and ready for bed.

 

Check your medications.

If you are taking medications, either for chronic conditions or otherwise, it’s better to review them, in case it might have sleep-related side effects. Beta-blockers, for example, are prescribed for people with high blood pressure and typically cause them insomnia. List down all drugs and supplements you take and consult your doctor on how they affect your sleeping cycle.

 

Nibble on some cheese crackers and finish off with milk.

Contrary to popular belief, it can be perfectly alright to eat something before you go to sleep. Sometimes, it even helps you get better sleep. For your nighttime nosh, go for snacks that combine both carbohydrates and protein that contains tryptophan. An excellent choice will be cheese crackers and a glass of milk! You’ll be amazed how easy you’ll drowse off to sleep!

 

Regulate your light exposure.

In the morning, get exposed to as much sunlight as you can and let natural light into your home or workspace as possible. Then when night time comes, avoid bright screens at about one to two hours before your bedtime. The blue light being emitted by your gadgets is disruptive. Also, keep your room dark when you sleep!

And there you have it! Follow these tips whenever you find yourself in the middle of the ‘I-can’t-go-to-sleep’ situation. Say goodbye to your worries and hello dreamland! All these brought to you by Oasis Natural Cleaning!

Don't Worry, Be Happy in L.A. Traffic With These Stress-Free Tips

Don’t Worry, Be Happy in L.A. Traffic With These Stress-Free Tips!

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One minute, you’re driving in the streets of Los Angeles while singing to the tune of Cruisin’ with your favorite burrito or person when suddenly… you’re not cruising anymore. Traffic jams can take you out unguarded and ruin your mood, not to mention your entire day.

In L.A., traffic congestion has already been part of one’s everyday life, right? From the endless photos, social media rants, movie car chases, and true-to-life suspect pursuits broadcasted through a helicopter on the 5 p.m. news, driving in Los Angeles traffic is nearly inevitable.

As they say, if you can’t beat them, join them! Avoid getting stressed out and giving in to road rage by knowing the best time to drive in L.A. traffic. How do you say?

Here are some useful tips to get you through your congested commute!


Choose the right playlist.

Desperate times call for drastic measures–and we mean music. Listening to tunes can help you fight building stress back. But it’s not enough to play any music available. You need to pick the right kind.

There was a survey conducted that concluded that those drivers who listen to hip-hop, rock or heavy metal were more likely to get involved in traffic accidents. Not only that, but it can also increase your stress feels even more.  

Therefore you should listen to tracks that are softer and more soothing like light retro music, and gentle, slow-paced, instrumental songs. You can search for and download playlists on Spotify or iTunes that will fit your taste. So go ahead and sing your stress away!

 

Have food and drinks near you.

PAUSE for a minute there! Before anything else, it’s important to point out that even though not illegal, eating and drinking while driving can have legal consequences. If it is proved that your actions pose a danger to other people, you could be fined.

So given that thought, make sure that your travel is a happier experience by keeping some snacks near you. This comes in handy when you find yourself trapped in a traffic jam. By having something to chew on while you wait for it to decongest, you’ll feel a whole lot better. We mean, it’s food! Who wouldn’t feel better after eating?

 

Relax your mind and breathe–a lot.

It’s a typical reaction to get a bit pissed off when you get caught in traffic, especially if you’re late for work or an essential appointment. Despite that, it’s still better to take deep breaths, clear your mind and relax.

Also, take note that meditation helps to reduce stress. But of course, you can’t completely zone out while you’re in the middle of the road. Just pay extra attention to anything around you, and be aware of your breathing. Don’t forget that if the cars start moving, refocus back to driving.

 

Use an air freshener.

Studies are showing that lavender can help ease anxiety and reduce blood pressure, therefore can calm you down when you get congested in traffic. So what are you waiting for? Plug in an air freshener now to lighten up both your mood and the smell of the car!

 

Stay chill.

Remember that it’s useless to rant out or blame the cops, traffic signals, public transport vehicles, roads under construction and narrow paths when you’re stuck in heavy traffic. It will only take out a lot of energy from you.

Instead, try to act like a calm mom in the midst of bickering children. You can’t change things, get rid of the congestion or fly away through fighting and accusing others. So stay chill and ignore the stressful world out there.

 

Now, the next time you get caught up in heavy traffic, don’t take the stress out on yourself. Use these tips to be happy, and calm! And if you also want to avoid the hassle of coming home to a dirty home, call in the professionals to take care of the job!

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