4 great ideas for customized mugs

4 great ideas for customized mugs

If you’re thinking up gift ideas for that special someone or doing some last-minute holiday shopping, finding something personal and fitting can sometimes be quite difficult. Giving a customized gift item like photobooks, mixtapes, mugs, t-shirts, or pillows is a great idea. A custom mug is especially good when all other ideas don’t work out. Let’s check out some fool-proof customized mug ideas to help you out if you’re on a tight schedule and budget. Quotes The easiest way to customize a simple mug without needing any artistic skills is printing different quotes and designs. These quotes can be generic and based on the occasion; they can also be something of personal significance to you and the recipient. You will come across a wide range of gift shops and retailers who customize such simple mugs for affordable and even discounted prices. This option is an excellent alternative for when you do not want to print up someone’s photo on the side of a mug. Illustrations If you’re gift-hunting for a close friend or family member, giving them a customized mug is a great idea. Custom mugs with photographs have become quite common; instead, you can add graphic illustrations and caricatures that comically depict the recipient. Getting such designs for your loved ones is an easy task, and the reaction is always fun. These custom mugs look extremely pretty and artsy, and are a much better alternative to photo-printed ones. If you get them made in bulk for multiple family members, you may also get attractive discounts on them. Moreover, if you are an artist, you can illustrate your own designs for the mugs. Heat-sensitive prints To add the element of surprise to your gift, customizing a heat-sensitive mug is the perfect idea to do so. These types of mugs are solid black at room temperature and start revealing the underlying print after hot or cold drinks are poured into them.
Explore the majestic Arctic with these 4 luxury cruises

Explore the majestic Arctic with these 4 luxury cruises

Traveling to a destination is one of the best parts of vacationing. While some venture on a road trip or simply take the next flight, others prefer voyaging the seas. With onboard entertainment, luxurious rooms, and breathtaking sea view, traveling to your destination on a cruise can be an exceptional experience. And this experience magnifies when you are traveling to the Arctic. So, here are some of the best luxury cruises to the Arctic. Explore the Polar Region in style Quark Expedition brings to you adventurous yet a luxurious cruise to the Arctic. Their newest polar-class ship – Ultramrine can board two helicopters and 20 quick deploy Zodiacs for a closer interaction with the Arctic fauna. It also has a spacious viewing deck to witness the intriguing midnight sun. The cruise is a round trip from Longyearbyen to the Arctic circle. Adrenalin-filled Arctic Expedition Lindblad Expeditions is offering an unmatched experience to its customers on a six-to-26-day excursion to the Arctic. The thrilling zodiac rides gives you an opportunity to become an adept photographer to catch a glimpse of the polar bears, multitudes of penguins, seals, and whales surfacing the blue waters. You can also mingle with Svalbard’s local community and experience their rich culture. The luxury cruise offers 24-hour beverages, meals on land, and even an onboard fitness center. Unparalleled Scandinavian Excursions Explore Scandinavian regions with Viking Ocean Cruises. The luxury polar cruise to the Arctic takes you to the most picturesque locations around Scandinavia and historic sites in the Baltic Sea and the majestic Fjords along the breathtaking Norwegian coasts. Travel back in time as the cruise also lets you explore the medieval old town of Talllinn. The luxury cruise has a spacious veranda and offers complimentary wine and beer onboard with lunch and dinner. Their Culture Curriculum® offers interactive sessions like TED Talks, Met Under the Stars, Munch Moments, and classical music performances.
6 common mistakes to avoid while buying mattresses

6 common mistakes to avoid while buying mattresses

Buying a mattress can be confusing due to the sheer number of options available. It is a product that you use daily but cannot purchase frequently. So, you have to make the right choice on the first go. Options only increase the odds of an impulse buy and could land you in potential sales traps. To help you, here are some common mattress buying mistakes you should avoid to get the best deal. Skimping on research There are four types of mattresses, namely memory foam, latex, coil springs with padding, and hybrid. Each bedding style offers a unique comfort level for different sleeping positions. Some are also designed to provide supportive orthopedic comfort. You must compare available options to check what type of bedding is suitable for your sleeping needs. Buying the cheapest one While price is a major deciding factor, consider spending a little more to get a decent product. For example, single foam mattresses with minimal design elements are the most affordable ones to buy. But these mattresses lack the quality and necessary lumbar support for a good night’s sleep. Not trying out the product Go for brands that offer a free trial period. This way, you get to take the mattress home and try it out for a couple of nights before buying. Don’t buy furnishings that you have not personally checked and tested for long-term use. Buying the wrong size Mattresses come in standard, double, queen, and king-size options that are available with most brands. And the measurements for these variants are available online, so it pays to double-check if the mattress will fit your existing bed frame. This won’t matter if you plan to overhaul your bedroom. But, always check to see what size works best for the family bedroom. Not discussing it with your partner Discuss firmness levels, sleeping positions, and most importantly, the type of materials with your partner.
4 ways to manage overactive bladder symptoms

4 ways to manage overactive bladder symptoms

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a health condition where one experiences a frequent urge to urinate. They also find it hard to control, leading to involuntary loss of urine. About 33 million people across the country are diagnosed with an overactive bladder, and women are more prone to the condition than men. Read on to learn about the treatment options, meal plans, and lifestyle changes to manage the symptoms of an overactive bladder: Treatment options Besides simple home remedies, several oral treatments help manage the symptoms of an overactive bladder. The most common FDA-approved options include GEMTESA, MYRBETRIQ, and TOVIAZ. These work in different ways to relax the bladder muscles, help the bladder hold more urine, and keep it from squeezing often. If used correctly, they can reduce the frequency and urgency of going to the bathroom. Meal plans A balanced food plan can help cope with the symptoms of an overactive bladder. Patients must avoid sodas, canned juices, flavored yogurt, and ice cream. These have added sweeteners and preservatives that irritate the bladder, squeezing it and making it difficult for the muscles to relax. Instead, one can opt for fresh juices, high-protein home-cooked meals, whole grains, and fiber. Creating a meal plan makes it easy to have the ingredients ready for different recipes. If unsure, one can consult a doctor about the foods to eat and avoid. Lifestyle changes Doctors advise patients to follow an active lifestyle besides using treatments and eating the right foods. A 40-minute workout can be rewarding. One can choose a sport, go for morning or evening walks, or join a fitness club. Specific exercises help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, helping control the urge to urinate for longer. However, strengthening the pelvic muscles can take some time, and patients must seek the advice of an expert to perform the exercises correctly.
3 mistakes to avoid while pumping breast milk

3 mistakes to avoid while pumping breast milk

Breastfeeding is a unique process that new mothers have to learn. No two feeding experiences are alike, so one has to figure out what works for them. This can help one cherish this phase of nurturing a newborn. Additionally, one may have to pump and store breast milk for times when they may not be able to breastfeed. There can be some hiccups along the way, so here are common breast-pumping mistakes to avoid: Using the wrong shield size The breast shield comes in different sizes to suit different women. The standard size is 24mm; however, this may not fit everyone, so one may have to check and re-order a shield in the right size. Pumping with the wrong size shield can lead to pain in the nipples, reduced output, and also nipple damage. So one should find the best shield size for them. Stopping too soon This is a common mistake one can make. When pumping breast milk, one may begin to notice that the milk dribbles out. After a few seconds, the milk can start to spray out from the milk ducts. This is called a letdown reflex, which a lot of mothers describe being a pins and needles sensation. Once this letdown reflex relaxes, the milk will go back to a dribble. This is where most moms will stop pumping as they believe there is no more milk left in the milk ducts. But, if one keeps pumping for a while, they will experience the letdown again. Sticking to this method can also increase the milk supply over time. Skipping breast compressions This is the process of massaging the breasts while pumping. New mothers often skip this step or feel there is no need for it, as the pump is already doing its job. However, breast compressions can help push the milk out of the ducts more easily.
8 warning signs of kidney cancer

8 warning signs of kidney cancer

The kidneys are responsible for filtering and flushing out unhealthy liquid waste from the body. However, kidney cancer—a relatively uncommon but serious disease that might often go undetected until it reaches advanced stages—could disrupt this cleansing process. It could also lead to more severe complications. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of kidney cancer is vital for early diagnosis and treatment. This post explores the most common signs of kidney cancer. Blood in the urine (hematuria) While hematuria may have various causes, including urinary tract infections, kidney stones, or injury, it should never be ignored. Even a small amount of blood in the urine warrants immediate expert attention. Persistent back pain Persistent or chronic back pain, particularly in the area around the kidneys, could be a warning sign of kidney cancer. This pain may be dull and aching, sometimes mistaken for muscle strain. If back pain persists despite rest and usual treatments, one must consult a healthcare provider for evaluation. Fatigue Kidney cancer may lead to constant and debilitating fatigue. This persistent tiredness often interferes with one’s daily activities and might be an early indicator of the disease. A loss of appetite A sudden or persistent loss of appetite is another sign. This, coupled with a sudden reduction in fitness levels, may point toward an underlying health issue that requires attention. Swelling in the abdomen or lower extremities Kidney cancer may sometimes cause swelling in the abdomen or lower extremities. This swelling, known as edema, occurs when excess fluid accumulates in tissues. It could be uncomfortable and is often associated with advanced kidney cancer. Palpable mass Patients may feel a palpable mass or lump near the abdomen. This mass may represent the tumor itself or an enlargement of the affected kidney. Any unexplained lumps or masses should be promptly evaluated by a healthcare professional.
5 mistakes to avoid when buying life insurance

5 mistakes to avoid when buying life insurance

Life insurance enables individuals to cover their family members against financial risks that may arise in the future. So, one must not overlook its purchase. If one can afford it, they could consider picking a policy with a higher coverage. Moreover, there are several errors that one could make when buying a life insurance policy, which could result in limited benefits for their family. Here are five such mistakes to avoid. Focusing only on the premium amount Several buyers pay attention only on the premium amount they are supposed to pay instead of looking into more about the coverage and its terms. Doing so could result in buying a policy that is insufficient for meeting the requirements of the policyholder’s family. So, one must consider factors such as future goals, children’s education fees, and inflation instead of only focusing on the premium. Relying on the employer’s insurance coverage Employers generally offer a basic level of life insurance coverage. So, one must not completely rely on it for protection and should consider getting supplemental life insurance. Moreover, one may be able to secure a reduced premium rate when they opt for the life insurance provider associated with their employer for standard coverage. Choosing the first insurance provider Insurance buyers are usually in a rush to make the purchase and go with the first option they find. While they might get something affordable, it could result in them getting an insufficient insurance coverage. Therefore, one must study multiple policies by different providers and determine factors such as the company’s popularity, experience of the insurance provider, and customer reviews before making the purchase. Delaying buying life insurance Delaying purchases when it comes to life insurance policies is not the best idea because the older one gets, the more expensive will it be to get insured.
4 pillow-assisted sleep positions for better health

4 pillow-assisted sleep positions for better health

When an individual sleeps, their body works to restore and repair itself. However, their sleeping position, especially with pillows, could affect this restoration process by influencing the spine’s natural curvature. To improve sleep quality and prevent discomfort, people with problems like back or neck pain, difficulty staying asleep, and waking up feeling unrested should change how they use pillows. Keep reading to find out five sleeping positions to try with pillows and their impact on health. Side sleepers When one sleeps on their side, they should use a medium-soft pillow. They would do well with a lofted pillow that fits between the neck and mattress and is sturdy enough to keep the head from sagging down. One should avoid pillows that are too firm, crane the neck upward, and may cause neck pain. A side sleeper could also put a thick, firm pillow between their legs, with the knees even or the top knee narrowly staggered to keep the hip from pulling forward and straining one’s lower back. Back sleepers Some people may sleep on their backs, which is ideal to prevent neck and back pain. Such individuals must pick a thin pillow with a lower loft to keep the neck in a neutral position. It may also be helpful to find material with more body, such as a feather or buckwheat pillow. These options help fill the space between the neck and mattress while supporting the neck. Stomach sleeping While stomach sleeping is usually discouraged, it might work for those with respiratory complications and acid reflux. When sleeping on the stomach, the waist may tilt forward, making the position stressful for the lower back. So, for maximum comfort, one should put a pillow under their pelvis, which may help maintain spin alignment. A thicker pillow may force the neck to tilt back too far.
3 mistakes to avoid when buying a laptop

3 mistakes to avoid when buying a laptop

Most people depend highly on their laptops for various reasons, like using them for work, gaming, watching movies, and everything in between. For these reasons, choosing the right laptop is vital, as it must be compatible with what it is used for. For instance, buying a gaming laptop when one purely uses laptops for watching movies or working on Excel is a mistake. There are a few other mistakes, as mentioned below, that one can avoid: 1. Not testing it before buying Trying out a product before buying it is a must, especially if one plans to invest a substantial amount. It is always best to test out a product, in this case, a laptop, to understand how it works and whether it is easy to use. Those who are planning to buy a laptop online because they are getting a good deal should definitely visit a physical store and check out the laptop first before making a purchase online. This way, they make an informed decision and get to save quite a bit by buying online. Most stores always have a display or a trial piece that customers can test. 2. Assuming the product size and weight don’t matter It is very important to know how big or compact a laptop is, as users will have to carry it around. If the device one purchases is too bulky, one will find it difficult to carry it around or fit it into their backpack. On the flip side, a laptop should also not be too small, especially if one wants to use it for gaming, watching movies, or editing content. All of these activities are not enjoyable on a small screen. So, when purchasing a laptop, it is important to consider its bulk, size, and features. One can think of what tasks and activities they purchase to make a better decision.
Top 5 hotel booking websites

Top 5 hotel booking websites

Indeed, booking hotels has become easier than ever. But there’s no denying that the sheer number of booking platforms and offers can overwhelm most travelers. Typically, the best hotel booking sites feature great deals, scores of room options in any given location and allow you to filter your search results based on your preferences. We’ve listed some excellent hotel booking websites that can help you get a great room at an affordable price. Booking.com This is one of the most popular and reliable hotel booking websites. No matter where you are traveling and what time of the year, you can easily find amazing deals on a wide variety of hotels, apartments, and hostels on the platform. Another advantage is that the website is easy to navigate, filters search results accurately, and the search engine displays total upfront cost (pretax), allowing you to determine what fits into your budget quickly. HotelsCombined HotelsCombined is a top-rated metasearch engine or aggregator, meaning it shows you the best results after comparing listings from hundreds of travel sites in seconds, including top online travel agencies like Booking.com, Hotels.com, Expedia, Agoda, and many more. It’s a great platform if you’re looking for something at the lowest possible price. HotelsCombined even refunds you the difference if you find a hotel listed cheaper elsewhere after booking with them. Kayak If you’ve booked a flight ticket before, you’re already familiar with Kayak’s interface. It’s uncluttered, easy to use, and has many filters that can help specifically look for something you want. Being an aggregator, you can easily find a wide range of hotels and other types of accommodation at amazing prices on Kayak. TripAdvisor Here’s another popular metasearch engine that you must check out. TripAdvisor has a reputation for curating some of the best hotel deals from an array of sites, including top ones.
Check out LG’s newest range of cordless vacuum cleaners

Check out LG’s newest range of cordless vacuum cleaners

LG has been a popular brand for quite some time, notably for manufacturing some of the best vacuum cleaners. But with an overwhelmingly wide variety of options to choose from, determining which one fits the bill can be difficult. Herein, we shortlist three of the latest and top-rated cordless vacuum cleaners offered by LG. LG CordZero™ A9 Limited Cordless Stick Vacuum This model is one of LG’s top-selling vacuum cleaners that can easily reach the most remote of nooks and crannies of your house. One unique feature of this vacuum cleaner is that it comes with a portable charging stand. You can select from its multiple power modes, depending on how dirty the surface is. Its five-step filtration system separates and filters dust into an attached bin. The 140AW Smart Inverter Motor™ with a 10-year warranty ensures maximum vacuum power for spotless cleaning irrespective of the type of floor. The twin batteries can be charged within four hours and can comfortably last for an entire cleaning session. This cordless vacuum cleaner by LG is priced at around $700. LG CordZero™ A9 Charge Cordless Stick Vacuum For dry as well as wet cleaning, this latest cordless vacuum cleaner by LG is what you want. The CordZero™ A9 Charge Cordless Stick Vacuum not only offers provides superior dry cleaning across all floor types, but its Power Mop combined with 140AW powerful motor attachment enables you to clean using just normal tap water. The Power Mop attachment comes with two sets of microfiber pads for a more efficient cleanse. Its twin battery system offers 120 minutes of uninterrupted cleaning in a single charge. Additionally, it comes with the Kompressor™ lever that compresses dirt, dust, and pet hair, which doubles bin capacity. This vacuum cleaner is price at around $800. LG CordZero™ ThinQ Robotic Vacuum The LG CordZero™ ThinQ Robotic Vacuum is designed for automated house cleaning.
10 must-have items for a complete wardrobe

10 must-have items for a complete wardrobe

Fashion enthusiasts or not, most people try to look classy, stylish, and appropriate for every occasion and experiment with styling options for different events. With new drops every few months, you get access to a wide array of clothes and accessories, making it tougher to decide things to buy and things to skip. To make the decision easier for you, here are 10 basic items that every closet should have: All-purpose knitwear Whether you prefer a fancy cashmere sweater, or something light and breathable, knitwear is a must-have. To dress it up, pop a knitted cardigan or coverup over your shoulders in the spring. Denim No wardrobe is complete without a pair of denim jeans. Whether high-waisted or low-waisted, skinny or flared, there is something for everyone. White shirt A white button-up shirt is a versatile must-have. Wear it with a blazer for a formal look, or pair it with a knitted skirt for effortless evening wear. Tailored trousers A relaxed but tailored pair of trousers can elevate any basic look. Trousers in neutral shades like camel or beige are a great choice to match with absolutely everything. Sneakers A great pair of sneakers are a staple for your closet. The perfect choice to run errands in, sneakers are practical and comfortable accessories. Striped T-shirt The striped tee (or marinière) has been a symbol of timeless French fashion since the 1850s and can be easily dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Leather jacket Leather jackets (or faux leather jackets) are a great investment as they can make any outfit look effortlessly cool. Classic coat A longline, tailored coat is a chic addition to basic outfits. Get them in an oversized fit to layer over any knits to wear them all year round. Basic T-shirt Basic tees are a no-brainer.