Tips To Help You Plan For A Loved One’s Funeral

Planning a funeral can be a long process, but if you don’t have a lot of time to spare because a loved one has passed away and you have the added pressure of time constraints, the funeral planning can be even more stressful and unnerving. That’s why many elderly individuals choose to plan their funerals in advance in order to help their children by having everything in place when they pass away.

Whether or not you choose to plan a funeral in advance, however, the same basic requirements need to be fulfilled. Continue reading to learn some tips that will help you successfully plan a funeral in a short amount of time while ensuring that all of the details will be met.

Determine How the Body Will Be Laid to Rest

The first thing that needs to be done is a determination needs to be made regarding what will be done with the body and how it will be laid to rest. Did the deceased wish for his or her body to be embalmed and buried traditionally or naturally? Or did he or she want the body to be cremated and the ashes placed in an urn within a memorial at the cemetery? Was there a request made that the ashes be scattered in a specific location?

Whenever it comes time to plan a funeral for a loved one, you have to try to recall what your loved one would have preferred. Did he or she leave specific instructions? Or did the person hint at what his or her preference for burial was at some point before the unexpected death? No matter what, try to do what the deceased would have wanted, as it is the best way to honor that person’s life.

Choose a Funeral Home

Choosing a funeral home is an important step to take if you wish to have a private viewing of the body or you want a memorial service to be scheduled to honor the deceased. Again, planning in advance can save a lot of time and frustration, but in the event that a funeral home was not booked in advance, ask for referrals from friends and family who are there to help you cope and help you make the proper funeral arrangements for your loved one. They will be able to direct you to the right funeral home based upon their experiences, and this will save you the trouble of having to research local funeral homes while you grieve and attempt to get through this difficult time.

Submit an Obituary to the Local Newspaper

Sometimes your funeral home will submit an obituary to the newspaper or at least help you write one. This is a wonderful way to honor the legacy left behind by your loved one, as well as to inform distant friends and family of the passing.

While planning a funeral, try to stay strong. You will get through this difficult time, especially with the help of your friends and family and the professionals who will ensure the funeral goes smoothly.

Ignoring The Signs – Why Failure To Adhere To Traffic Control Measures Is A Major Cause Of Car Accidents

While many people sort of think of car accidents, or minor ones at least, as a fact of life, and something most people will have to deal with at some point in their lives as drivers, it is still the case that the majority of bumps, collisions, and even more serious accidents could be avoided. Most car accidents are caused by somebody, whether it is the driver of one of the cars involved, a pedestrian, a cyclist or motorcyclist, or even the people who should have been maintaining the roads. This is why car accident related litigation is so common these days – where there is someone at fault, someone is normally going to sue them.

Where driver error comes into play in a car accident, one common cause is the failure to properly adhere to traffic control measures in place on the roads. Here we look at what this means and why it is so dangerous.

What Kind of Traffic Control Measures do People Ignore?

Traffic control devices and measures can mean anything from traffic lights and pedestrian crossings to road markings, signs and temporary things like warning lights on the freeway and traffic cones where road works are taking place. Anything designed to instruct the driver to take a certain course of action, whether it be to stop, wait, change lanes, or take an alternative route, is effectively a traffic control measure.

Why Do People Ignore Them?

There are a number of reasons why signs, markings, lights and traffic control and safety equipment gets ignored by drivers. If it is something temporary, it could be that a driver who knows the route well is driving on auto pilot and doesn’t notice the new sign or warning there. This is often the case when road works are being carried out or when temporary deviations and other measures have been put in place to cope with adverse weather or the fallout from an earlier road incident. In other cases, drivers may judge that it is safe to ignore the red light or run the pedestrian crossing because they don’t see any hazards, and think they can make it. In some cases, it is simply that the driver is reckless, perhaps because they are in a hurry.

Why Is It So Important to Adhere to These Controls?

Even if it looks safe to do something, things can change in an instant on the roads and therefore if the signs are telling you not to go, you shouldn’t. While it may sometimes seem over careful, the traffic control measures are there for a reason and when it comes to something with the potential to do as much damage as a car, as well as cost you a lot of money in the ensuing lawsuit, it is always best to err on the side of caution. As many drivers will attest, something as simple as running a red light or failing to stop at a level crossing because you think there is plenty of time, can have devastating and sometimes even fatal results, so it is always best to ‘do as you’re told’ on the road.

All Of Your Friends Getting Engaged And You’re Still Single? Tips For Coping With Being The Last Single Girl In A Group!

There comes a time in most groups of friends where it seems like everyone has big things going on in theirlove lives, like getting engaged, married and having babies. While this is normal because statistically most people tend to do this at around the same age and most people are friends with people in their own age group, it can be quite disconcerting for those in a social group who are at different points in their personal lives. It can actually be quite depressing if you haven’t found the right person yet and would really like to, when you see all of your closest friend picking out wedding dresses, but there are always some positives to think about.

Freedom, and Possibility!

Certainly your life may to you seem dull compared to friends who are comparing notes about their upcoming bridal showers, weddings and honeymoons, but remember that after the wedding is over that is the high point of their life basically behind them! While they will, in a year’s time, probably have a life that involves watching TV with a takeaway once a week and choosing new kitchen appliances, you could be in the midst of an amazing new romance, be doing wonderful things with your career, or traveling the world. It may seem like you’re the unlucky one now, but all this means is that you have the best days of your life still ahead of you. You may find that already, as happy as your friends are to have found the people they want to be with forever, there are aspects of your life they envy – the grass is always greener after all!

You Can Keep Them Grounded

Planning a wedding may look fun, but people do have a tendency to let it stress them out. As someone who is probably not full of enthusiasm and interest about the minutiae of your various friends’ big days, you can explain to them that invitation stationery is quite a boring topic to bang on about for a whole lunch, and that they needn’t get so hung up on it all. They may feel stressed and anxious, but you are there to remind them they are just walking down an aisle in a nice dress, not performing brain surgery, and that it is best if they occasionally talk about something else! This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be a supportive friend and take an interest (even if you actually wish you could never hear another word about weddings again), but stick to the big things like admiring the beautiful diamond engagement rings, checking out the dress and giving your thoughts on the venue, and keep them grounded if they start obsessing about napkin rings.

Being the single girl in a group of friends who all seem to be involved in exciting, thrilling life changes can be sad, but think about the good things in your life and try and keep your friendships in a territory where their lives and weddings aren’t the constant focal point, and you can survive it – remember, it’s only a brief phase anyway!

Stacy Ann Ferguson Is Now Officially Fergie Duhamel!

She’s been married to Josh Duhamel for almost five years, and finally Stacy “Fergie” Ferguson has taken his last name.

The “My Humps” singer officially changed her name from Stacy Ann Ferguson to Fergie Duhamel, and it became final when a judge signed the documents this morning (August 16).

Lady Gaga Debuts Lyric Video for "Applause" Watch Here!

Mirroring the covershot on her upcoming album, Lady Gaga sported some colorful face paint on the streets of Hollywood on Wednesday (August 14).

Though the official video for her latest, "Applause," is to premiere on “Good Morning America” on Monday, the Gaga let loose they lyric video for the single.

Lady Gaga on VMA Wardrobe: No Meat or Veggies, Just Textiles

Once again showing off her colorful makeover, Lady Gaga stepped out for promotional work in Los Angeles, CA on Tuesday (August 13).

The “Applause” singer donned a black getup with colorful makeup while visiting press to dish about her latest single and upcoming album ARTPOP.

Eva Longoria: Lunch Lady in Brentwood

Making the most of a beautiful afternoon, Eva Longoria stepped out for some lunch in Brentwood, California on Thursday (August 8).

Casually chic in a white top with blue jeans and silver sandals, the “Desperate Housewives” dame seemed annoyed with the shutterbugs as she scurried past.

Kendall and Kylie Jenner Preview Fall Collection in NYC

Hoping to nab back-to-school shoppers, Kendall and Kylie Jenner attended their self-titled Fall Collection Preview at PacSun in New York City on Tuesday (August 6).

The youngest Kardashian clan member sported a white sleeveless top with "KALI FOR NIA" on it with dark skinnies and black boots while her 17-year-old sister donned a semi-sheer white sleeveless top and black leather pants.

Jennifer Aniston: Glamour's Gorgeous Cover Girl for September 2013

With her new flick We're The Millers" set to hit theaters August 7th, Jennifer Anistonpitched in on promotions by covering the September 2013 issue of Glamourmagazine.

During her Q&A session with co-star Jason Sudeikis, the "Horrible Bosses" beauty opened up about sticking up for his fiance Olivia Wilde in 2012 and offered advice to those who want to make improvements in their lives.

Britney Spears & Katy Perry: “Smurfs 2” Starlets

Stepping out for a fun-filled shindig, Britney Spears and Katy Perry showed up at the Hollywood premiere of “The Smurfs 2” on Sunday (July 28).

The “Oops I Did It Again” songstress looked to be in great spirits as she hammed it up in a blue and black Herve Leger dress and black pumps with her sons Sean Preston and Jayden James.

Meanwhile, Katy brought her grandmother Ann Hudson along for the ride and stunned the shutterbugs in a blue lace top over a knee-length matching leather skirt, skinny belt, and satin heels.

Slated to hit theaters on July 31st, “The Smurfs 2” is already getting great reviews. Per the synopsis, “The Smurfs team up with their human friends to rescue Smurfette, who has been kidnapped by Gargamel since she knows a secret spell that can turn the evil sorcerer's newest creation - creatures called the Naughties - into real Smurfs.”

Lady Gaga Goes Makeup-Free to Promote ARTPOP

She’s chomping at the bit for her fans to experience her new ARTPOP album/multimedia project, and Lady Gaga shared an unvarnished photo of herself along with a personal message.

Taking to her Little Monsters social platform, the “Born This Way” singer posed for a makeup-free image and accompanying caption.

Farrah Abraham on Trayvon Martin: I Think I’ve Met Her

Giving her haters another reason to bash, Farrah Abraham proved her lack of knowledge for major current events during a recent interview.

The “Teen Mom” star stopped by “Matty P’s Radio Happy Hour” for a chat and during the discussion was asked what she thought about Trayvon Martin.

Helping Your Child Have The Best Experience Learning To Ski Or Snowboard

Skiing can be so much fun, and it is a sport children can begin to learn at an extremely young age – almost as soon as they can walk confidently! However, for some kids, it can be a little bit daunting and scary to put on skis and try and execute their turns and other moves properly. Snowboarding, while it certainly has the ‘cool’ factor that kids love, can also be a daunting proposition. If you are really keen for your kids to enjoy their first attempt at one of these great winter sports, to prepare them for plenty of fun winter vacations to come, then here are some tips:

Teach Them About Safety Without Frightening Them

Winter sports come with various risks, as we are all aware, however while to us these may not seem like a big deal as long as we know how to be careful, to a kid they can sound terrifying. If a child is told about the risks of frostbite, hypothermia, sunburn, collisions, bare patches in the snow, rocks, and falling all at once, and simply told to ‘be careful’ because of them, this may translate to ‘what we are about to do is fraught with danger and you basically just have to hope for the best’. Instead, teach them safety aspects as they come up, for example talking to them about the weather and its associated dangers as you shop for clothes, helping them learn that there are measures they have to take to keep themselves safe. The new environment of a ski resort can be a very intimidating place, so help them learn what to expect well in advance without building it up as something scary.

Introduce Fun Elements and Treats

While rewarding your kids with candy or the promise of some nice hot chocolate when you get back to the lodge may seem silly for something fun that they should be enjoying anyway, the whole day will seem a lot less threatening if everything about it is a special treat and they are rewarded for doing well. It can also be a great way to incentivize them to keep practicing as the day wears on and fatigue sets in, or to distract them if they are cold or bored waiting for their turn to do something.

Don’t Pressure Them – Let Them Think It Is OK To Be Nervous

You may love skiing or snowboarding and it may be really important to you that your child enjoys it too so you can take all of those great family winter sport vacations you have dreamed about since they were born, but don’t let on that there is any pressure for them to enjoy the sport or be good at it. This will only make a nervous child feel worse, and they may not even tell you that they are scared if they are worried you’ll be disappointed. As soon as their confidence begins to build after a few goes on the slopes, chances are their fears will all be gone and they’ll be having a great time, but before they get to that point, let them know you are there and the most important thing is for them to have fun.

Make Sure Their Gear Fits Well

Even if you picked up a cheap used snowboard or set of skis or have borrowed some from a friend rather than renting them at the resort for your child’s first time, get someone there to check the fit of everything they are using if you’re not an expert – your child won’t know enough about how things are supposed to feel at this point to be able to tell you themselves if the sizing is all wrong for them
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Rihanna: Camera-Shy in London

Bringing an end to another fun-filled evening, Rihanna showed up at her luxury hotel in London, England on Tuesday night (July 16).

And while she usually doesn’t mind the paparazzi, the “Umbrella” babe shielded her face from shutterbugs with a grey blanket as she scurried inside.

AnnaLynne McCord: Bikini Babe in LA

Stepping out for some fun in the sun, AnnaLynne McCord showed up on the beach in Los Angeles on Monday afternoon (July 15).

The former “90210” starlet stunned fellow beachgoers thanks to her skimpy yellow bikini and rock hard body as she rode her bicycle along the coastline.

Enjoy Your Summer Safely – Know The Safety Hazards In Your Garden

If you’ve been waiting all year for the weather to pick up so you can start making the most of your own outdoor space, then chances are you’re excited to get out there and enjoy the sunshine. However, before you begin planning a whole range of summer sports activities, barbecues, parties and sunbathing sessions; it’s best to take some time to assess what has changed in your yard, patio, deck, pool and other outdoor areas. This is especially true over the off season and make sure you take care of any safety hazards.

Here are some things to check or attend to before you and your kids start spending all your time out in the yard this summer!

Check Out Your Trees

Check that there are no dangerous branches hanging off of your trees that could injure somebody. Chances are your trees will have grown a fair bit since you were last spending a lot of time outdoors; so look out for low hanging branches and also weak branches your kids may try to climb on. You can often prune your trees yourself if you want to get rid of problem branches, however if you need to or you’re not sure if your trees are safe or not, get a professional tree surgeon to look at them.

Look Out For Nests!

We’ve all heard horror stories about people who accidentally disturbed a wasp or hornet nest; these can be a real problem in the summer if they have managed to form a nest in your area. If you see a lot of wasps or hornets around in your garden area then there is probably a nest nearby; you are going to want to find it and have it destroyed so you can safely enjoy your summer. Even a single sting from one of these flying nuisancescan ruin your day, but being attacked by a swarm because you’ve disrupted a nest can be fatal. Many people also have dangerous allergies to the stings, so you’ll want to make sure your garden is clear before you have people over or let kids play there.

It’s also a good idea to invest in some insect repellent candles or other devices to help keep the area free of mosquitoes.

The Pool Area

As part of getting your pool ready for regular use again, check not only the pool itself but also the surrounding area. Look out for cracks in the patio or other tripping hazards, and make sure that any fencing or gates you have to keep your pool secure and keep young children and pets out are in good condition. Now is the time to get your fences both in the pool area professionally maintained, if you need any repairs or specialist paint work like iron fence painting done.

With a few quick checks and some smart maintenance work at the start of the season, you can avoid potential summer injuries and health problems created by the things in your garden. Make sure that even after doing these checks, you are also well stocked with first aid products like Band Aids and treatment for insect bites and sunburn, and you can have a stress free summer!

Today’s feature writer, Daniel Morgan, is a part of the team at As Good As New, one of the leading deck and fence service providers in California. In his spare time, Daniel writes blogs on how to maintain your decks and fences to improve the aesthetic appeal of your home.
 

Ke$ha Rocks Out at Yahoo! Wireless Festival

Giving her fans a killer kickoff to the weekend, Ke$ha showed up at the Yahoo! Wireless Festival in Statford, England today (July 12).

Sporting a colorful getup and a Gibson Explorer guitar, the “Your Love is My Drug” songstress played through a hit-laden set list at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park during Day 1 of the festivities.

Selena Gomez Launches her Adidas NEO Fashion Line in Berlin

Currently enjoying her return to music, Selena Gomez is keeping busy with another venture, launching her own fashion line for Adidas NEO.

Unveiling the collection at the brand's flagship store in Berlin, the "Come and Get It" singer described a leather jacket as "edgy" and a crop top as "feminine."

Jennifer Aniston’s Flirty New Smartwater Ad: Check It Out!

She’s long been a spokesperson for the Smartwater company, and Jennifer Aniston looks simply amazing in a newly-unveiled advertisement.

The “We’re the Millers” starlet is pictured having just woken up in bed, though her perfect hair and clear blue eyes make it pretty tough to suspend disbelief.

Victoria Beckham: Wonderful at Wimbledon

Taking in one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events, Victoria Beckhamchecked out the Men’s Final at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London on Sunday (July 7).

Lovely in a sleeveless black dress with lace at the bottom, the fashion designer took her place in the Royal Box at the All England Club for the action.

Ms. Beckham was on hand to support tennis star Andy Murray, who took on Novak Djokovic for the title at the annual tournament.

Celebrities of all kinds have flocked to the club over the last several days to see the tennis stars compete. Among those spotted are Pippa Middleton, Wayne and Coleen Rooney, and Bradley Cooper.

Rihanna: Beach Babe in Poland

Getting in some sun before her next performance, Rihanna and her friends hit the beach in Sopot, Poland on Sunday (July 7).

Showing off her slim figure in a pale blue bikini, the “We Found Love” singer seemed unfazed by the onlookers as she went about her sunning.

Selena Gomez Teases "Stars Dance"; Check it Out Here!

Whetting fans appetites for her next big song, a snippet of Selena Gomez latest tune “Stars Dance” hit the web today (June 5).

The track comes off of the 20-year-old’s upcoming album of the same name, which has already produced the hit “Come & Get It.”

Beyonce Goes Red, White, and Blue for Fourth of July Photos

Sharing her Fourth of July with her fans, Beyonce posted a series of pictures to her Tumblr account on Friday (July 5) showing how she and her family celebrated.

Two of the photos show the “Run the World” beauty posing against a classic Rolls Royce in denim shorts with the American flag on them.

Rihanna, Milla & Kristen: Chanel Fashion Show Fun

Making the most of the Paris Fashion Week Haute Couture Fall/Winter 2013-14 festivities, some of Hollywood’s hottest stars were in the house for the Chanel runway presentation today (July 2).

“Zoolander” babe Milla Jovovich showed up at the Grand Palais looking stellar as did “On the Road” dame Kristen Stewart, who has been on a traveling spree since last month.

And of course, Rihanna turned heads in her long cardigan sweater getup (and not much else), showing off her massive under-chest tattoo.

Following the shindig, Ri-Ri tweeted, "Went straight to the Chanel Couture show early this morning with NO SLEEP!!! It was so worth it!!!"

Lady Gaga Gets Waxy In Paris

She’s a huge fan of the City of Lights, so it’s only appropriate that Lady Gaga'snew wax figure was unveiled in Paris, France on Tuesday (July 2).

The “Born This Way” babe’s likeness was unveiled at the Museum Grevin by hairdresser Charlie Le Mindu and wax sculptor Jean-Baptiste Seckler, both of whom contributed to the project.

Rihanna Shows Off Her Twerking Skills

She’s never been shy about her sexuality, and Rihanna is giving Miley Cyrus a run for her money in the ‘twerking’ department.

The “Umbrella” babe is featured in a new cell phone video, shaking her moneymaker while A$AP Rocky’s “F**kin’ Problems” featuring Drake plays in the background.

4 Ways To Avoid Bed Bugs While Shopping

Today, a lot of people have been plagued by the resurgence of bed bugs. Unlike what most people think, bed bugs do not only dwell in unsanitary and unclean areas. They can also be found even in the cleanest and most sanitary locations, such as hospitals, famous hotels, office buildings, and so on. Recently, there have also been reports that these bugs were also found in famous retail stores. In fact, three major clothes stores in New York City have been temporarily closed because they were infested with these pesky critters. This is quite alarming, especially for many shoppers.

It has been said that the most common way to transfer bed bugs is through the purchase of used furniture and clothing. Today, you are capable of introducing these creepy crawlies into your home by buying new clothes. This is a dilemma since obviously, there will come a time when you need to buy new clothes, but you don’t want to accidentally bring home these bugs. What’s the best way to avoid these creepy crawlies and stop them from coming home with you?

Tips To Avoid Bringing Home Bed Bugs
Inspect The Clothes For Signs Of Bed Bugs: The first thing you need to understand is that these creepy crawlies cannot travel from one individual to another, unlike lice; however, they can hitch a ride on clothing. For this reason, it is best to inspect the clothes you wish to try on or buy. The most likely areas that these bugs like to hide in are the cuffs and pockets. You must inspect those carefully. Other items you must inspect are bags, purses, and wallets.
When you try on clothes, you must look for stains that look like dried blood. Blood spots or fecal spots are signs of recent feeding.
Even if you choose clothes from a pile, bed bugs might still find their way onto it. You must look carefully inside the seams, and check for any signs of sticky white eggs, living bed bugs, and shed skin.
Once you discover signs of infestation, you can notify the store manager. It is their responsibility to address the problem to protect their customers from bringing home these nasty little creatures.
Check The Fitting Rooms: Bed bugs can also be found in fitting rooms. It is advisable to avoid putting your purse or bag on the floor since it will provide these bugs easy access to your items. It is preferable to hang it on the hook along with the items instead of laying them across seats in dressing rooms. Additionally, before fitting your clothes, you must also check the mirrors and crevices where these bugs might hide in.
Avoid Buying Used Clothing: You never know what you are going to get when you purchase used items from a yard sale or thrift store. For instance, someone might donate bedbug-infested clothes, and then you purchase it. As a result, you unknowingly introduce bed bugs into your home. You might have saved a few bucks through your purchase but after some time, you will have to pay a huge amount for the services of a bed bug exterminator. If you cannot stop from buying secondhand clothing, the least you can do is immediately send the items to your washer and hot wash them. Extreme heat can kill any critters that hitched a ride home.
Take Precautionary Methods: Even when you purchase new clothes from famous retail stores, once you get home, you must immediately send the items to the laundromat. You must wash and launder the items using hot water, then dry it at 110 degrees for at least 20 minutes. As mentioned above, heat is a very effective method to kill these unwanted critters. If you are unable to wash your clothes, you can place it in a sealed, airtight bag. In addition, you must shake the items outside before you take them into your house.

How to combine jewellery?

We have all heard that diamonds are a girl’s best friend. But, considering the fact that for most of us they’re inaccessible, every woman will be happy to decorate her neck, arms and ears with shiny and shimmery affordable jewellery. Should we comply with certain rules that will switch us from a bad taste in fashion into good? What matches what? What not to wear? Does the age affect the choice of jewellery? Discover answers to all these questions by reading this article.
Everything looks great on young women and when it comes to jewellery almost everything is allowed. The combination of metal and colourful plastics, neon, tons of bracelets, series of earrings, piercing … Even if you want to “decorate” yourself like a Christmas tree you’ll look like a rebel before looking “tacky” and then when you’re older you’ll probably be surprised with your “brave” combinations of the past, but by then you’ll be more “fashion-conscious” and give priority to the fashion rules.

Good combinations
Necklaces – long necklace with an interesting pendant can beautifully accentuate cleavage and complement Boho or vintage combination, but also pick up the one seemingly ordinary outfit. Cocktail and formal dresses are an entirely different story in which priority should be given to brighter evening jewellery like beautiful diamond rings and pearls. However, that is not always the case. If you decide to wear a dress that is closed in front with opened back rather choose interesting earrings or bracelet as a finishing touch.

Rings – no matter how much you like wearing rings rather opt for one amazingly beautiful ring. If it is a large ring, one is more than enough, and always wear the ring on the hand where you do not have a bracelet or a watch on.

Earrings – long and pendulous earrings can elongate a round face. On a longish face smaller earrings closer to the ear lobe will suit. Remain discreet during the day, and for a night out wear shiny earrings like diamond earrings or one with zircons in them.

Bracelets – if you are out of your twenties, two to three beautiful bracelets in a series will be quite sufficient. Do not forget that, although the current trends impose something contrary to this, a true lady on the same hand never wears a bracelet and a watch. If you cannot decide if you want to wear both, then at least separate them.

Regardless of which piece of jewellery you give an advantage to in a particular occasion, observe the seasons for which they are intended and do not mix different metals. If you are already wearing gold jewellery, leave the silver ones in the box, and respect the business dress-code, wear nothing tinkling and glittering that distracts others. Also, if you decide to put on earrings do not put a bracelet or a necklace around the neck and vice versa. Because, a one good piece of jewellery  can make any plain combination pop, so too much jewellery can ruin the outfit and make it tasteless. And that’s not a lady’s goal, right?

10 Ways To Enjoy St Patricks Day In Style

St. Patrick’s Day is an annual celebration traditionally held on 17th March. Individuals of all nationalities and faiths gather for Paddy’s Day parades and parties dressed all in green. The day commemorates the life of St. Patrick and the date is significant because most historians believe it was the date of the saint’s death.

In Ireland, St. Patrick’s Day is a national holiday. This is the only country where the day is recognized officially even though the United States and other countries hold celebrations. Christians and non-Christians alike commemorate the day with parties, parades and celebrations with friends. The parties in North America are actually much more raucous than the ones in Ireland.

Irish natives usually mark the day with reverent moments and religious services commemorating Saint Patrick’s life and his many contributions to the church. Individuals typically don Irish and Celtic crosses to demonstrate their faith and Irish background.

Regardless of whether individuals are secular, religious, Irish or some other nationality this is a fun celebration for all who participate. Individuals all over the world celebrate this day with parties, music, food and drink. These ten tips will help you enjoy any Saint Paddy’s Day celebration:

1. Wear something green
Green is the colour of the day and is a symbol of good luck. Most people are extremely creative with their party attire. You can liven up any outfit with a jaunty hat, colourful glasses and novelty green wigs.

Terrible Two- What Is It and How to Go Through It

Children are blessings and I guess everybody agrees. As a matter of fact, during pregnancy both parents expect with an abated breath the arrival of happiness and indeed there is happiness in the first few months of a child’s life. However, when the child hits two years; all hell breaks loose and such parents may have second thoughts. This is the so called “terrible two” phase of a child’s development.

So What Is Terrible Two Phase?

In my search to find the meaning of terrible two; I came across the following definition. It refers to a stage in a toddler’s life when anger or temper tantrums takes toll on the child. It is characterized by the child’s “NO” response to everything you suggest as well as refusing to do what they are asked to do.

I have three children and when each hit just about two years these very problems began and I know right then that “terrible two” phase had caught up with me. I also realized that it was at the same time that my toddlers developed verbal abilities. Some toddlers experience this phase earlier at about 18 months but some as late as 34 months. For my children, it was somewhere in between these extremes.

This stage is tremendously stressful for most parents as well as caretakers and without knowing how to respond, things can move from bad to worse. I came to the realization that such a child will exhibit some reactions that are at best understandable and at times unexplained. The child develops crankiness, anger tantrums, excessive crying and restlessness.

This is also the time that the child is predisposed to accidents due to hazards such as broken toys, glass and other harmful objects. This may result from the child throwing toys he or she is given onto the walls even when they are meant to console him or her during the terrible moments.

An example of such moments I had with my toddler was when I was online shopping for him the most beautiful boys pants I’ve seen in a long time. I wanted to get him wear them for his birthday party. When I tried to dress him with this shirt, the kid could not take it. I simply could not understand what is going on so I insisted. My boy responded with uncontrollable tantrums and all my efforts to control him hit a dead end.

What Makes Toddlers React The Way They Do?

This is the question in many people’s minds although not many would dare ask it. In a bid to answer this question, I found many reasons that can make toddlers to behave the way they do. This has helped me to understand them better and also to go through the terrible two phase without much stress.
Here are some of the reasons I came across:

These children are opinionated: As young as they are, kids have opinions although they do not have self-consciousness to be rational. This is the reason why such children have absolutely no problem causing chaos in a public place such as a restaurant. They believe that their opinion is what matters and so insist on.

Two year old’s cannot reason: In as much as these children are opinionated they have not yet developed the ability to reason. Once their minds are set on something, they have not ability to critically consider the merits or demerits of their behavior and so end up reacting the way they do.

They are attention seekers: Just like most parents out there, I felt more bonded with my children at this early age. This boding tends to wane off as the child gets older; especially when another child is expected. The two year old’s will recognize this change and so tend to seek as much attention as possible.

Their moods take toll on them: Two year old’s, unlike older children or adults, can talk either coherently or incoherently but they would rather react emotionally to their needs. I realized that my kid’s moments would be triggered by hunger pants, tiredness, sleepiness or the like.

It is milestone in a child’s development: “Terrible Two” phase can be considered a developmental milestone in a child’s life. According to my research, it is an important aspect in the developments of a child’s core belief system that would determine his personality in the future. If well handled it can help shape the behavior of such a child in adulthood.

Armed with this understanding, I gradually learned how to care for my children in this trying moment. I would advise that any parent find ways to outwit their juniors. If hunger is the problem then I recommend arming yourself with some healthy snacks whenever you are with your child. A two year old may actually have favorable toy, cloth or the like; have some idea.