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  • Best All New Wireless Headphones for 2021

    Best All New Wireless Headphones for 2021

    Whether you’re looking for a good pair of headphones for working out or just something to wear while drowning out sounds during your commute, not having to fuss with wires is a huge plus. No one wants to worry about the tangle of wires in their pocket or bag, or their cord snagging on something and damaging their headphones. Thankfully, there are some stellar Bluetooth headphones on the market. Here are some of our top picks.

    Jabra Elite 75t

    If you like having wireless earbuds for sports activity, we can highly recommend the Jabra Elite 75t. These new earbuds fit snugly in most ears, and they have a great sound quality for their small size. The drivers are solid, offering punchy bass, good mid-levels, and decent overall sound: while these won’t be beating any dedicated audiophile headphones, they’re good for their price point and size.

    A notable draw to the Jabra Elite 75t is their microphones. They work incredibly well as a headset for taking phone calls, doing a great job of filtering out background noise. If you like wearing earbuds while jogging, cycling or other types of activity, this is a great draw. Taking a call while getting in your workout is a great two-in-one feature for busy professionals.

    Sony WF-1000XM3

    Sony has finally taken its wildly successful WF series headphones and put them into a smaller package. The WF-1000XM3 takes the quality of their full-size headphones and puts them into a smaller earbud form factor.

    Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless

    If you’re looking for the intersection of portability and sound quality, you’re looking for the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless earbuds. These wireless earbuds offer incredible sound quality and accurate reproduction of recordings. They’re incredibly light: you might even forget they’re in your ears. When you need a good set of earbuds for taking with you on trips or to work and back, these are a great go-to.

    While they’re not the best for sports or activity, the Sennheiser earbuds are great for daily activities like walking or commuting. For the person who wants portable wireless earbuds that can be tucked into a pocket but still wants the best sound quality, these physics-defying little earbuds are the best option.

    AirPods Pro

    If you’re already in the Apple ecosystem, these are a no-brainer. Their intuitive gesture controls allow you to change the song, adjust the volume and answer calls quickly and without having to pull your phone out.

    The 2020 update brings even more useful tricks to the AirPods Pro. With Apple’s propriety H1 chip they feature snappier Siri integration. You can send messages, start playlists and ask for internet searches all while jogging, cleaning or whatever you’re doing while wearing the AirPods. If you love high-tech integration and cool fashion statements, the AirPods are a great pick for you.

    Beats Solo Pro

    Apple has finally stepped up the quality of their Beats headphones. The Beats Solo Pro is a set of over-ear, active noise canceling, headphones. They used the same noise-canceling technology featured on their more premium, over-ear, Studio3 Wireless. The H1 wireless chip makes sure they are easy to connect to your phone and feature full Siri support. They’re a bit more expensive than the average headphones, but their great technology integration and stellar sound quality on phone calls makes them great for people on the move.

    PowerBeats Pro

    If you love the idea of the AirPods but want a more fitness-oriented set of wireless earbuds, the Beats Powerbeats Pro are for you. The same technology that went into the second generation AirPods is on display in the PowerBeats Pro, just in a more fitness-oriented shape. The over-ear design on display here helps the earphones stay on your ears while your exercise, making them great for any active person.


  • The Secret Hack To Getting Your Taxes Done During Coronavirus!!

    The Secret Hack To Getting Your Taxes Done During Coronavirus!!

    It’s that time of year again. Tax time, the time when you know you need to get out and get your taxes prepared. Maybe you’re notorious for putting it off, since it can be pricey.

    However, there are a number of ways to get your taxes prepared for FREE during COVID-19! In fact, you can even get your taxes prepared online for completely free today! Here are some of the best sites to use for free tax preparation during this pandemic.

    Free Tax Preparation During COVID-19

    FreeTaxUSA

    FreeTaxUSA is a user-friendly and well-made site for tax preparation. The site is very straightforward, easily walking you through filing your taxes step-by-step. If you’re worried about your taxes being too complex to fill out online, don’t. This site offers you a very thorough helping hand in getting everything filed easily.

    While the federal return is totally free through this site, filing a state return through this site costs money. On average it costs about $12, so make sure you factor that in when you’re considering your tax filing. Keep in mind that it’s most likely that any tax prep site you use will require a small fee for filing a state return.

    H&R Block

    Many people are much more familiar with H&R Block due to their physical tax preparation locations. However, H&R Block also offers a free tax filing service through their website. While preparing online might not sound like the normal H&R Block, it’s actually a rather streamlined and easy-to-use site.

    Not all types of returns can be prepared on the site for free, however. As with most sites, state returns will still require a fee to be sent in from their site. Additionally, more complex tax returns could include a fee for filing.

    The upside to H&R Block is that if your taxes prove too complex to fill out online, you can go to one of their physical locations. Then, a tax-preparer can get you set up in-person! Keep in mind, however, that using in-person tax preparation won’t be free.

    TurboTax

    As their numerous commercials have proclaimed, TurboTax allows you to file your federal return for free. As you might expect, this doesn’t apply to state returns, which include a small fee. Much like FreeTaxUSA, TurboTax offers a great user interface for inputting all of your tax information.

    You won’t have to worry about forgetting something or getting lost. If you miss a box or need to input more info, the useful client will remind you. You can rest assured with TurboTax that your return will be accurate before you submit it!


  • How to Use a Credit Card to Repair Your Credit

    How to Use a Credit Card to Repair Your Credit

    If your credit score is less than ideal, you might be wondering what the best way to repair it is. While there are a number of ways to address your credit, one of the most surefire ways to pull it back into a favorable position is to use a credit card. This might sound counterintuitive if your credit score is already bad due to credit card debt, but hear us out.

    There are a few rules of thumb you need to follow with any credit card, but they go double for when you’re using them to repair your credit. Today we’re going over some of the basics to help you fix your credit standing. If you follow these tips you should see your score going up gradually, and in a few years you’ll have great credit!

    Remember, most of all, to be patient. Your credit score isn’t going to become excellent overnight, and requires you to work diligently at paying back your debts and paying bills on time to stay high.

    Paying Off Outstanding Debts

    Let’s begin with the most pressing issues. If you have a lot of outstanding debts that are dragging down your credit score, it’s time to hose them down. Let’s say you’ve got debts on three credit cards that are bearing down on you. Find the one with the highest interest rate and put any extra money you make towards paying it off. Make minimum payments on your other debts while you do this.

    By using this “target priority” technique, you can begin to chip away at the worst of your debt. This does two things for you. Firstly, it gets all that extra interest the debt would have accumulated out of the way. Secondly, it means your credit score will start to get repaired as your payments stay regular and your debt-to-income ratio evens out.

    Using a Small-Limit Card

    On the flip side, if you have no credit history or a bad credit history and don’t owe much in debt right now, you’ll want to use a credit card. For instance, let’s say you’re fresh out of college or school, you have a consistent job and you’re looking to get a car loan but have no credit history. Don’t sweat it! Just apply for a small-limit credit card with no annual fees and a low interest rate. Something really small, even with a limit of $100 or $200, works well here.

    Just use this card for small purchases, like buying groceries or getting food at a restaurant. Be careful to only spend what you can afford to pay back before the end of the month so that you don’t float any balance and accrue interest owed on it. After a few months of consistently using, and paying back, this small credit card, you’ll see your credit history start to build up.

    Good Spending Habits

    As another example, if you’re repairing your credit history after a rough patch, you can use a similar approach. However, with a bad credit history, as opposed to no credit history, it may seem difficult to find a credit card that seems like a decent deal. In such cases, even if you find a card with a high interest rate, consider using it just for making small purchases.

    Even if a card has a high interest rate and a low limit, using it consistently and simply paying it back before the end of the month can be a great way to show credit agencies you’re more responsible than you once were. By paying the bill off monthly, you’re able to both keep the interest from building up while also improving your credit score.


  • The Ultimate Software Essentials For Every New Business

    The Ultimate Software Essentials For Every New Business

    Starting a new business can be tough. As a startup business owner, it’s crucial to discover the software solutions tools that can save you time and make your job easier. We’ve outlined the most essential new business software solutions of 2019.

    HR Software

    Whether you’re a Fortune 500 company or a start-up looking to make your first hire, modern-day HR solutions have never been more vital to businesses. Due to the ever-growing complexities of running a business in the last decade HR software has practically reinvented itself.

    While it can be tempting to outsource all aspects of your business with HR Software, it may not always be necessary. You should especially take this into consideration when pricing comes into play. Not all HR Software companies offer a complete package at one price. For example, Bamboo HR ups their prices for companies that run payroll with them by $4 per employee and $25 per month.

    Essential Accounting Software

    Keeping a close eye on your books is especially important when you first open your business. Having the right software solution in place can make this difficult task more straight forward and organized.

    The streamlined, seamless and easy-to-use Freshbooks software is one of the top picks for accounting software. Whether you’re running a large business or a small one, Freshbooks as an accounting suite is a strong choice. You can easily set up recurring invoices to pay out to various contractors, record your expenses easily and import to other software in a flash. The dashboard makes it easy to find what you’re looking for, while the easy-to-navigate menus and options make it impossible to get lost. Accounting can be quite difficult, but Freshbooks takes a lot of the difficulty out of the equation! Pricing for this software starts at $15 per month.

    Capeable Cloud Security and Storage

    There are a ton of great options when it comes to cloud storage! Many of them are free, but some offer some interesting paid features. If you have a lot of storage needs, whether it be for business or personal use, consider these great options for cloud storage!

    Microsoft’s answer to cloud storage is a great platform. Windows users have access to it as just another computer directory! It’s simple to access and offers 5GB of storage free to anyone. Just like Google Drive works closely with Google Office Suite, OneDrive works with Microsoft Office. If you commonly use Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and the like, OneDrive is a great option for you.

    If you decide to sign up for an Office 365 subscription Microsoft will reward you with an extra terabyte of storage on your OneDrive account. OneDrive for Business grants access to both storage and Microsoft Office. It’s just under $9 per person per month, which is actually a pretty good rate! If you already use a lot of Microsoft’s Office Suite, OneDrive is for you!

    Inventory Management Software

    Is your new startup going to require a large amount of inventory? If so, a comprehensive inventory management solution may be an essential piece of software for your business. Whatever solution you choose, it’s important that it’s capable of expanding with your business.
    Boxstorm, part of the Fishbowl inventory management system, allows you to track the cost of each item from the time it’s purchased to the time it’s sold. It allows you to have a real-time value of your existing assets. Ensuring your product gets from point A to point B is a core function of any business.
    Boxstorm can interface with multiple shipping solutions. It allows you the freedom to choose the solution that fits you best. They accommodate a wide variety of e-commerce solutions like WooCommerce, Shopify, Magento and Salesforce.


  • Top 5 DNA Tests for Ancestry

    Top 5 DNA Tests for Ancestry

    For centuries, genealogists have relied on oral and written records to trace their family trees. But around the year 2000, the age of genealogical DNA testing was launched. This provided genealogists and family historians with an opportunity to use well-established scientific methods to prove relationships and ancestry.

    Ready to take an ancestry DNA test to better understand your family’s past, but aren’t sure which one to choose? You’re not alone. Several excellent DNA tests for genealogy are now available for a reasonable cost, but picking the right one for you can be very confusing. Which DNA test is best?

    23 and Me

    Called 23andMe as a nod to each person’s unique set of 23 chromosomes, 23andMe is the only kit in this lineup to offer health screenings aside from autosomal testing.  Fill the tube with your spit, send it back for testing, and get your results in 6-8 weeks. Results are kept indefinitely, so you can log on at any time to see or update your family tree.

    23andMe’s health tests can give valuable information about genetic illnesses, health risks, carrier status on health conditions, or traits that may run in your family — providing you with an important heads up about any checkups you may want to schedule.

    23andMe is possibly the easiest to find, sold at retailers like Target as well as Amazon and 23andMe.com. Though the starting price on these sites is $29.99, the lab fee will add up to either $69 or $169 — $10 cheaper than the base price on 23andMe’s official website, depending on if you choose just the ancestry test or add the health screening to that.

    MyHeritage

    If you’re balling on a budget and are only looking for the autosomal testing, MyHeritage could be the DNA test for you. First timers may also find this kit the most appealing as it is the most user-friendly. Swab the inside of your cheek with the provided tool, send it back for testing, and have your results in 3-4 weeks. Results are kept for 25 years.

    MyHeritage is said to be the fastest and cheapest test, usually sending results back to participants in 3-4 weeks and not requiring a monthly-paid subscription to access results. MyHeritage also pulls from 42 graphic regions, the third highest number behind AncestryDNA and Living DNA. DNA can be linked online to create a family tree, and there is an option to upload raw data — so if you’ve gotten some sort of genealogy tests done before or have outside genetics information that you’d like to use, it can easily be included in results.

    Ancestry.com

    AncestryDNA makes it easy to explore your ethnic origins but can’t differentiate between maternal and paternal lineages. This test is great for tracing your ethnic roots and finding living relatives.  Though all of the DNA services provide broadly similar results for ethnic origins, AncestryDNA presented this data in a clearer manner and placed the information in a useful historical context.

    For people seeking distant cousins or even biological parents, the company’s claimed DNA database of 10 million customers—twice the size of its closest competitor’s—increases the odds of successful matches. Unlike the other services we tested, however, AncestryDNA cannot track your maternal and paternal heritage independently or trace your ancient migration path out of Africa. Ancestry.com also is one of the most affordable DNA tests out there, usually $99 but currently offering a holiday special for only $59!

    Family Tree

    Family Tree is a data trove for genealogists with a bigger budget. It has options for highly detailed analysis of maternal and paternal lineages. But the cost for the genealogist-oriented add-ons can add up quickly. Family Tree DNA offers a more comprehensive suite of testing options than any service we evaluated, with additional tools that should satisfy genealogy buffs looking to explore their connections to early human migration or find relatives from one particular side of their family tree.

    As you would at a good sushi restaurant, however, you’ll want to watch your bill. Family Tree DNA’s à la carte approach can quickly add up; you can easily spend more than than three times the testing cost of our main pick.

    Living DNA

    Living DNA is a UK-based genomics firm that offers autosomal DNA data, as well as a breakdown of matrilineal and patrilineal lines. DNA data is gathered through a mouth swab. We liked how shipping for the test kit is free.

    If you’re looking for a DNA service that can match you to other possible relatives throughout the world, Living DNA is not the service for you. While Living DNA is beginning to build up a family match database, there’s nothing there now to work with.

    On the other hand, Living DNA’s test is quite comprehensive if you’re researching your background without regard to finding long-lost cousins. The company tests 638,000 autosomal SNPs, 22,500 Y chromosome SNPs and 17,800 X chromosome SNPs, along with 4,700 mitochondrial SNPs.

    Of particular interest to those looking backwards throughout their history, Living DNA tracks DNA to 80 geographic regions, and, for those of you with a UK family history, can even can provide an map of where your ancestors lived on the islands.


  • Review: Choose the Right Flea Medication for Your Dog

    Review: Choose the Right Flea Medication for Your Dog

    Without a doubt, fleas are one of the most stubborn pests known to bring disease and distress to your pets. Fleas are known to cause conditions such as anemia, Bartonella, tapeworms, and Flea Allergy Dermatitis to your pet. A flea infestation is not only bad for the pets but also causes immense discomfort for people in your home. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that your pet is well protected, and flea medicine is a perfect solution for protection against the pest all year round. Numerous medications have been invented over time in an attempt to keep away the fleas, but the pest has somehow developed adaptive traits against the medication. Despite the numerous side effects pest medication may have on your pet, the growing need to use them underscores them.

    We have reviewed below some of the best flea medication to consider using on your pet alongside their pros and cons.

    Features to consider while purchasing flea medication
    1. Topical or oral treatment
    Flea medicine is divided into two types; oral and topical.
    Oral medication is administered in the form of a tablet that goes into your pet’s bloodstreams. Once a flea bites your pet, they ingest the medication and die. Oral treatment is quite effective in controlling an infestation but unfortunately lasts for a short period of about 2 hours.
    On the other hand, topical flea treatment is administered in liquid form and is sprayed on the skin of your pet. Like oral, topical treatment protects your pet from fleas for a period of up to one month.

    2. Period of protection
    Go through the manufacturer’s manual to check how often to administer and the flea medicine protection period.

    3. Protection against other parasites
    Flea medicine that kills other parasites such as mosquitoes, lice, ticks, and internal parasites like tapeworms and roundworms is a perfect option for achieving an all-around pest control solution.

    4. Water-proof
    If you choose to use the topical flea medication, it is wise to pick a water-proof product to ensure effectiveness for a long time.

    5. Effectiveness and safety
    Conduct some research to establish the best and most effective product before making a purchase. You can do so by researching the active ingredients in the product on Google or look up for reviews in the product.

    Best flea medications in the market

    1. Bayer K9 Advantix II flea treatment for dogs
    The K9 Advantix is a topical treatment that has proven its effectiveness and excellence in eliminating fleas in your dog. The topical treatment begins working within just a few minutes of application and has a 30 days duration of protection.
    Besides just attacking fleas, the product has ingredients that also kill lice, mosquitoes, and flies, offering you that extra advantage of overall pest control in your home. The product is easily applicable and has a water-proof feature to ensure protection for longer.

    Pros
    • It is a fast-acting product
    • The product offers you a broad spectrum of protection against pests within 12 hours
    • The ingredients are safe
    • It is a convenient once-a-month topical application medicine

    Cons
    • The product may be harsh for sensitive dogs
    • The water-proofing may be insufficient, especially after a wash or swim.

    2. Frontline-Plus flea & tick dog treatment
    a safe, fast, and reliable topical pest treatment. Frontline-plus flea and tick treatment works right away after application on dogs of all ages and is applied topically in the dog’s skin, offering protection against fleas for as long as 30 days.
    Thee drug destroys flea eggs and hatches larvae on the dog’s skin, ensuring it is protected from re-infestation for as long as it stays on.
    The brand is a vet trusted one that has been in existence for over 20 years, which is a good indication of the good quality of their products.

    Pros
    • The ingredients that make up the product are safe
    • Eliminate even the eggs and larvae, ensuring full-on protection
    • Very easy to apply as it comes with a unique applicator.
    • It is a fast-acting product
    • Quality is assured
    • Suitable for puppies over eight weeks

    Cons
    • The formula may give a robust chemical odor after application
    • The pricing may lean a bit on the expensive side

    3. PetArmor Plus Flea And Tick Squeeze-On Treatment For Dogs
    Looking for a more affordable solution for pest control, PetAmor is the product for you.
    The medication comes in different dosages for different dog-sizes together with a unique applicator. The petAmor takes up to 12 hours to start working after application and carries on the effect for the next 30 days.
    The active ingredients in this product’s formulae, Fipronil and (S)-Methoprene, work together to offer relief from fleas and act on eggs and larvae hatching on the pet’s skin.
    The product is water-proof and helps control flea and tick diseases like Lyme disease, which is a plus even for the whole family.

    Pros
    • It is an affordable option
    • Water-proof product
    • Kills fleas in all their stages, including the eggs and larvae
    • Has a safe combination of ingredients
    • Works perfectly on extra-large dogs
    • Acts on tick species

    Cons
    • It is slow acting as it begins work 12 hours after application
    • The special applicator may be relatively hard to use

    4. Capstar Flea Tablets For Dogs
    The Capstar flea treatment is administered in tablet form for your dog to swallow. The drug is approved for use in puppies over four weeks, weighing two pounds, adult and pregnant dogs as well.
    The drug action kicks in within 30 minutes of ingestion, kills all adult fleas within a few hours, and is out of the pet’s system after 24 hours. However, the Capstar flea tablet does not work on the eggs and larvae, and you will require a different mediation for that.

    Pros
    • It is an affordable product
    • Fast-acting, beginning action 30 minutes after administration
    • Puppy and pregnant dogs friendly
    • Odorless

    Cons
    • Only works on the adult fleas and not any other pests
    • Its effect lasts only 24 hours, and you have to administer a dose daily until all fleas disappear

    5. Vet’s Best Dog Flea And Tick Home Spray
    Vet’s Best Dog flea and tick home spray is an all-natural spray solution that helps you deal with fleas, larvae, and eggs that your dog might have brought into your home without dealing with any chemicals.
    The formula compromises of all-natural and plant-based ingredients that are kind on your home surfaces and dog but brutal on the fleas, which makes it perfect for use at home
    The product eliminates not only fleas but also repels ticks and mosquitoes in your home. It is perfect for both adult dogs’ puppies aged over 12 weeks but should be applied carefully, avoiding the eyes and nose area as it may irritate.

    Pros
    • It is an all-natural product
    • Does not cause stain on your home surfaces
    • It kills both adult fleas and eggs
    • Affordable

    Cons
    • Cannot be used on pregnant or nursing dogs
    • Not suitable for puppies under 12 weeks

    6. Virbac Knockout E.S. Area Treatment Spray
    This is an effective and affordable flea treatment solution for your home that comes in an aerial spray.
    The product is used on your home surfaces such as carpet and rugs to eliminate fleas your pet could have brought home alongside the treatment administered on your dog. This helps avoid a re-infestation cycle that can be a nuisance and keep away the fleas for up to seven months.
    The ingredients in the product act fast on the adult fleas breeding around your home and prevent any breeding eggs from reaching the adult stage and reinfesting your pest.

    Pros
    • It is long-lasting, keeping fleas away for up to 7 months
    • The product is odorless
    • The aerosol spray makes it easy to apply
    • It does not leave any sticky mess after use

    Cons
    • The product cannot be applied directly to pets
    • It is expensive

    7. NexGard Chewable Tablets For Dogs
    The Nextgard chewable tablet is a very dog-friendly product administered in the form of delicious beef-flavored tablets. It is perfect for dogs and puppies over eight weeks, weighing more than four pounds.
    The product starts killing flies in four hours of consumption and, unlike other oral medication, continues to be active for a whole 30 days.
    It kills adult fleas and interrupts the lifecycle of hatching eggs preventing the re-infestation. Besides fleas, NexGard is also effective in killing several species of ticks that may bite your dogs.

    Pros
    • It is a fast-acting product
    • Has a long-lasting effect of up to 30 days
    • Suitable for puppies over eight weeks
    • It is effective against ticks as well

    • Easy to administer to your dog thanks to the beef flavor and appealing scent

    Cons
    • Pricing could be a little high.

    8. Onguard flea and tick treatment for dogs
    It is a topical type of medication that is used on adult dogs, nursing and pregnant but not for puppies under eight weeks.
    The product acts on adult fleas as well as the eggs preventing the chances of re-infestation on your dog. Its effect is instant upon application, and it remains active for the next 30 days. The product is water-proof and remains effective even after a bath or a day in the rain.

    Pros
    • Offers a water-proof formulation
    • Long-lasting with the medication staying active for 30 days
    • Perfect for dogs weighing between 44-88 pounds
    • Kills both the fleas and eggs
    • Highly effective on lice and lice
    Cons
    • Cannot be used on any other animals apart from dogs
    • Not suitable for puppies under eight weeks

    9. Advantus Dog Soft Chew Flea Treatment
    The Advantus dog soft chews are an oral medication that starts working within an hour of ingestion. The product is mild enough to be administered to your dog daily, with a scent and flavor that dogs enjoy making it easy to administer.
    The medication is available without a prescription from a vet, hence safe if your dog does not have any underlying health issues. It is also efficient on puppies as young as ten weeks old.

    Pros
    • It is mild for daily administration on puppies
    • Fast-acting
    • Easy to administer thanks to the appealing smell and scent
    • The ingredients are both human and animal friendly
    • Available without a prescription

    Cons
    • Expensive

    10. Sentry FiproGuard flea and tick squeeze on for dogs
    This is a topical medication that is effective In eliminating canine flea infestation. It is suitable for puppies over 8-weeks and dogs weighing between 45 and 88 pounds.
    It contains powerful active ingredients that kill ticks, chewing lice, and adult fleas. The product eliminates all egg and larvae for up to 12 weeks after application, breaking the lifecycle and preventing re-infestation for that period.

    Pros
    • Suitable for puppies over 8-weeks
    • Easily applicable with the squeeze on packing.
    • Long lasting with 12 weeks activity

    Pest resistance
    Some pest species have, over time, become resistant to some pesticides rendering them ineffective. Resistance comes about with pests inheriting a trait that causes increased tolerance to specific pesticides causing them to survive a compound in it that was meant to be lethal.
    These resistant genes come around over a long time of pesticide use, causing the surviving pest species to go through the process of recombination or mutation naturally.

    Where to purchase?
    Purchasing your pet medication does not only have to be through your veterinary officer. It can be as easy as making the order on your couch and waiting for a delivery.
    We have sites that now allow you to upload a copy of your prescription for purchase while others go the extra mile of calling your vet directly once you place an order.

    Below are some of the most popular sites to consider:
    • Chewy has an incredible online pet pharmacy and a wide range of pet food
    • 1-800-PetMeds
    • Walmart Pet Rx
    • Petco
    • PetCareRx
    Finally, researching online and seeking help from experts is highly recommended. Remember, if you are not sure about anything, you do not have to take the risk. Reading instructor’s manual and following them is the only way to do things right.


  • Top Apps for Encouraging Mental Health

    Top Apps for Encouraging Mental Health

    Mental health is a serious issue. Medical studies report that mood disorders like anxiety and depression are the third-highest cause for hospitalization among adults 18-44. A few steps anyone can take towards bettering their mental state include regular exercise and a healthy diet. However, there are other steps available too. As always, if you are able, seek professional help for mental disorders that are negatively impacting your quality of life. None of these apps should be considered a substitute for a doctor. That said, these apps all make great companions to help you promote healthy mental health habits!

     

    Pacifica 

    Photo Credit: Routine Coach 

    Stress and anxiety are the main focus of Pacifica. Connecting users with a community of supportive people experiencing similar things, Pacifica is a great platform. The app also offers audio lessons to help with relaxation and mindfulness. Meditation and relaxation are also part of the app’s repertoire. Pacifica is described as an app that “helps break cycles of unhealthy thoughts.”  


  • Review: Top 5 Pet Food Delivery Services-

    Review: Top 5 Pet Food Delivery Services-

    In times like these, it is always a good idea to limit how much time you spend going into large stores filled with strangers. This includes the tedious chore of shopping for pet food for your furry family.

    Fear not friends, in 2020 we now have multiple options to get your favorite four legged friend their food without leaving the comfort of your couch! In many cases, the costs are comparable or even lower than you would find at your local pet store. Services ranging from pre-made natural meals to your favorite packaged brands exist.  Our team has reviewed five pet food delivery services below.

    1. The Farmers Dog

    • Free shipping nationwide
    • Nutrition exceeding industry standards
    • Made fresh in USDA kitchens
    • Human-grade meat and veggies
    • Vet-Designed personalized plans
    • Skip or cancel anytime

     

    2. Chewy

    • Low Prices
    • Delivers prescription food with vet approval
    • 24/7 support
    • 30% off for new subscribers
    • Autoshipping

    3. Nom Nom

    • Personalized single-serve meals for dogs and cats
    • Recipes designed by veterinarians
    • Free delivery on all orders
    • Offers treats and more
    • Convenient packaging

    4. Ollie

    • Unique recipes based on pet profile
    • Arrives cold or frozen with recyclable trays
    • Portion recommendations based on pet’s age and type
    • Human grade meat, superfoods, and produce

    5. PetFlow

    • 15% off first order
    • Autoshipping available
    • All brands of dry food/canned food and other products available
    • Free shipping on orders $49+
    • Prescription diets available

     

    Happy hunting! Treat your pets like family 🙂


  • Investing in Stocks: A Beginners Guide

    Investing in Stocks: A Beginners Guide

    The stock market can be a scary place and an even more intimidating process if you’ve never invested your money before. But investing online is one of the best pieces of financial advice you can ever receive. For one, it’s an excellent way to grow your wealth for a specific period then reap the fruits in the future, probably after retirement.

    The best way to start investing in stocks is to put money in a trusted online investment account and use it to buy shares of stock. However, stocks are not like your typical savings accounts, certificates of deposit, or money market funds. They always have a very volatile principal value. They can rise and fall in very short periods. Therefore, if you still don’t have sufficient knowledge in investing, you can easily lose most, if not all, of your investment capital.

    As a result, it’s crucial that you learn the basics of how to invest and the most effective strategies to use. That’s what we aim to help you achieve in this excerpt:

    What Kind of Investor Are You?

    Before committing your money, it’s vital that you know what kind of investments you want to venture into. Most investment accounts will also want to know which types of investments are best suited to you. Therefore, ensure that you have an investment goal already planned out and set how much risk you’ll be willing to take on in your investments.

    Some investors are always more open to taking an active hand in the managerial part of their investments, while others prefer to set up their investments and forget them entirely until they mature. Both options allow you to invest in stocks, bonds, index funds, mutual funds, and exchange-traded funds (ETFs).

    If you are the type of investor who prefers to be more hands-on and involved with your investments, this article should be particularly beneficial to you. But if you prefer to have someone else with expertise in the stock market manage the process for you, it’s best to look for a reputable Robo-advisor’s services at a minimal fee.

    It’s vital that you know which type of investor you are to determine which investment types to focus on. Once you’ve found your preference, you should be ready to research stocks to trade.

    Research Stocks to Trade

    Once you’ve found a brokerage firm, you can buy stocks. But the question now arises on which stocks are best to buy. For beginners in the stock investment business, the best place to start investing in might not be stocks. Instead, start off with ETFs.
    ETFs allow you to buy different bundles of stocks at once. This can help build more confidence, especially if you don’t know which individual companies to pick over the others.

    ETFs built to replicate the bigger indices like Nasdaq, Dow, and S&P 500 are the best investment options to use to give your portfolio the boost it needs and broader exposure to the U.S. stock market. Most seasoned traders also advise that you diversify your holdings with other assets instead of just stocks. Diversifying your investments is one of the most effective ways of hedging the risks that arise from stock market downturns (but more on that later).

    Where to Start Investing in Stocks

    A thrifty, self-motivated investor who knows exactly what he/she wants might be served best using online brokerages, especially ones that provide commission-free trading. However, there are also stock options for new traders who feel more comfortable having the system or a broker pick the stocks for them. Such investors are better off using automated investing services, most of which are reasonably priced and provide a user-friendly platform to invest.

    Human brokers and other financial advisors offer some of the highest investment service levels, which mainly revolves around investment advice. But this is also the most expensive option to consider.

    Stock picking can be extraordinarily difficult, especially if you decide to go about it yourself. For the most part, there isn’t any way of knowing which direction the stock market will go. It’s on that note that even the seasoned stock investors, Warren Buffett included, discourage newbie investors from placing all their investments in individual stocks.

    Best New Apps to Use for Online Investments

    Stock investing apps have gained quite a reputation since the invention of the smartphone and the internet. Investment firms are now scrambling to develop mobile-friendlier apps that cater to the digital investor’s interests. The results have yielded some of the best stock trading apps the industry has to offer.

    These apps have easy-to-use features that make them perfect for quick and painless stock investments, even for first-timers. And the only requirements you need is a smartphone and an internet connection.

    As the resilience of Artificial Intelligence and intuitive software becomes more apparent in the stock trading industry, it’s also imperative that traders find the best apps with the latest tools for trading. These apps should have the latest tools and provide real-time research data and assess trading risks.

    Some of the best online apps for the job include:

    1. Robinhood
    Robinhood is one of the most renowned online stock brokerage apps that provide online traders with a completely free way to invest. The app doesn’t charge any commissions on stock, it has no minimums, and has one of the best and easy-to-use application interfaces.

    However, because Robinhood offers free investing, it doesn’t have as many perks as the other online investment apps. For instance, you won’t find features like trading tools, investing education, research, and several other investing options. But what it lacks in some areas, it makes up for in others, like providing high-tech, intuitively-designed, top-rated investing options on the market today.

    The app also allows investors to trade cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. But if you want to take your investing a notch higher, you can buy its premium version, Robinhood Gold, for $5 every month. The premium version gives users access to some of the apps premium features like allowing users to trade on margin, access market data, and make bigger instant deposits.

    2. Acorns
    Acorns is the next best straightforward money-making online investment app you can find today. It’s also definitely one of the best online apps for beginners. Acorns helps users learn some of the must-have investment skills to improve your chances of winning big. This is the online application that will make investing fun and turn it into a daily habit.

    To start investing with Acorns, you will need to link the application to your credit or debit card. Acorns will then round up all your purchases and move the change into your investment portfolio. This makes it one of the best apps to use, especially if you’re looking for a more hands-off investing type of approach but still want to make it your new habit.

    3. Public.Com
    Formerly known as Matador, Public also tops the list of the best stock investing apps you can find. It mixes social media with commission-free investing in creating a simple but unique platform that’s ideal for beginners.

    Public’s iOS and Android apps also help users to connect with other investors. Its developers came up with an ingenious idea to connect users with about 5,000 different securities. Another sweet deal with using the app is that you get a free stock of up to $50 if you refer a friend who signs up and starts trading.

    Public.com’s online trading app lowers the bar for beginners into the world of investing with no minimum balances needed and fractional shares available. After you’ve downloaded the app and opened an account, connect it to your bank account, and you should be set to start investing and trading.

    On the downside, more advanced investors who want to invest in cryptocurrencies or international stocks may miss out when using Public.com. But overall, this is an amazing online trading app for beginners who want to learn most, if not all, of the basics of online investments in a fun and intuitive way.

    4. Betterment
    Betterment is one of the world’s best Robo-advising platforms you can find today. The online investment guru manages and re-balances investors’ portfolios, making them stronger and more financially rewarding. Betterment is also one of the most user-friendly and easy-to-use online investment applications that can help users manage their taxable investments.

    To start investing with Betterment, you will need to answer a few questions about your financial goals, age, income, and risk tolerance. This information helps the application to evaluate you as an investor and the best investment experience with your goals. Additionally, Betterment has built-in financial guidance that’ helpful for anyone who’s still new to investing.

    It’s an excellent mobile application for both beginners and seasoned investors since it provides so much guidance to help all investors in different capacities.

    5. Webull
    Active traders who are looking for a mobile-first way to trade are better off trying Webull. This mobile app allows investors to trade ETFs, stock shares, and options to use. Webull also provides one of the simplest, bare-bone interfaces for smartphone apps. You won’t see several educational contents on the platform, but it’s still a leader when it comes to graphic analyses.

    Webull is an excellent choice, especially for investors who have some idea of what they’re doing. It also offers commission and fee-free trades for stocks, ETFs, shares, and options, making it one of the most desired options with a $0 minimum balance.

    Manage Your Stock Portfolio

    While worrying over daily fluctuations won’t do your portfolio much health, there’ll be times when you will need to check in on your investments.

    It’s always advisable that you revisit your portfolio several times a year to check if it’s still in line with your investment goals. Some few things to consider include:
    • If you are approaching retirement, it may be best to transfer some of your stock investments to more conservative fixed-income investments.
    • Pay attention to geographical diversification. It’s advisable to invest in international stocks as well to safeguard your portfolio. If possible, invest in stocks from different countries.
    • If your portfolio is heavily weighted in one industry or sector, consider buying stocks in a different industry to build more diversification.

    Limit Risks Through Diversification
    Diversification is the most popular way of managing risk exposure in the investment industry. Prudent investors always invest in stocks from different companies in different sectors, sometimes in different countries. They do this with the expectation that if a single bad event affects one stock, it doesn’t affect the rest. Diversification allows investors to recover from losses incurred from some stocks, thereby allowing investors to stay afloat.

    The first rule of trading is never to risk putting all your eggs in one basket. Also, never risk investing anything you’re not prepared to lose. This strategy is based more on the impact of margin trading. It means that you could potentially lose everything in a single trade if you’re not careful.

    Long-Term Investors Vs Short-Term Investors
    Knowing when to use short-term or long-term investments is a crucial part of growing wealth to help you reach your goals. Therefore, it’s essential that you learn all the strengths and weaknesses of short-term and long-term investments and which option is a better fit for your financial future. Here’s a quick brief on long-term investments and short-term investments.

    When to Consider Long-Term Investments
    Although some people put a lot of effort into short-term investments, getting to your goal of financial freedom isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon. The earlier you start, the more you’ll be able to accumulate. The earlier you start, the more you can accumulate. And long-term investments help you to achieve this goal.

    Long-term investments are mostly assets like stocks and real estate. They are the investments that you plan on keeping for a while. This allows them to grow and allow your portfolio to grow as well since you know you won’t access them for a significant period.

    Times when it makes sense to consider long-term investments include:
    • When your retirement is 20+ years away
    • You want protection from inflation
    • You need a plan for 7 to 10 years in the future

    When to Consider Short-Term Investments
    In contrast, short-term investments are the investments you intend to use to meet your financial goals within shorter time frames. Often, they include assets like cash, bonds, and annuities. Some few scenarios where trying short-term investments make sense include:
    • You will need the money soon
    • You want a regular source of income

    The Bottom Line
    The information provided in this excerpt should help you start investing and working like a professional. One important note to keep in mind when investing is to never invest in anything that you don’t understand. Above all else, remember that it’s your money on the line. So, don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as you have to.

    The investment steps mentioned above should help you to stay empowered and confident, even as you start creating your retirement plan today.


  • Top Ten Home Security Cameras

    Top Ten Home Security Cameras

    If you’re interested in home security, odds are that you would like to install a home security camera. However, there are tons of options out there for which one you should pick. Dealing with security companies and pushy salesmen is awful, to boot. So, what are you supposed to do? Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of the top ten home security cameras. If you’re hoping to secure your home, here’s a great place to start!

    Top Ten Home Security Cameras

    10. Netgear Arlo Go

    Photo Credit: Arlo

    This wireless camera works with Alexa and shoots in 720p. It offers both cloud storage and on-site storage, which is a cool plus. It can send you live feed straight to your phone if you pay for the cell service. However, it is pretty expensive: this camera will cost you around $430. That’s a pretty hefty price tag for a device that only shoots in 720p.

    9. Reolink Argus 2

    Photo Credit: Amazon

    This camera is a straightforward if dependable entry. It’s wireless and powered by its own internal battery. It doesn’t have a terribly loud siren, which is somewhat disappointing. It also can’t integrate with smart home devices, which is unfortunate. However, it’s weather-resistant and works great as an outdoor camera. This one will run you $130, which is a great price.

    8. Ring Spotlight Cam Battery

    Photo Credit: Amazon

    Triggered recording and a bright spotlight are two big upsides to this camera. It shoots sharp footage and has a very loud siren, which is great. However, you have to have a subscription to Ring’s service in order to view the recorded video. If you already have Ring devices at your house this one is a no-brainer. It’s also wireless and works with Alexa, making it a true smart-home device. It’s also pretty affordable, running $200.

    7. Nest Cam IQ Outdoor

    Photo Credit: Slashgear

    Nest’s first entry on this list is excellent, shooting 4K footage 24/7. It’s totally weatherproofed, which makes it ideal for outdoor use. It even has close-up tracking and HDR, making it great for those who need to really see what’s happening around their house. It will set you back, though: it runs $350.

    6. Tend Secure Lynx Indoor

    Photo Credit: Cnet

    This camera makes the list for just how darn affordable it is. It only runs around $60, yet it still shoots in 1080p. That’s a great value, but it’s somewhat offset by the lack of smart home integration. That said, it offers free cloud storage and even has facial recognition! It only works indoors, though, so keep that in mind.

    5. Nest Cam IQ

    Photo Credit: Nest

    Another entry from Nest, the indoor version of IQ is also a solid option. It costs a bit less, coming in at $300, but it offers many similarly excellent features. The Nest Cam IQ has two-way audio, letting you talk to people you can see from the camera. It has a ton of great smart home integration and shoots in 1080p. If you’re looking for a solid, if pricey, indoor camera, this is a fine option.

    4. Wyze Cam V2

    Photo Credit: TechHive

    If you though the Tend Secure Lynx Indoor was affordable, check out the Wyze Cam. This camera will run you a bank-shattering $20. Yeah, twenty, as in the same price as seeing a movie and getting some popcorn with it. For twenty bucks you get a camera that shoots in 1080p and offers local and cloud storage. It’s not the most high-tech thing in the world, but it will secure your home. If you’re looking for a simple, straightforward and affordable camera, go with this one. It’s a great deal!

    3. Netgear Arlo Pro 2

    Photo Credit: Storage Reviews

    This expensive but hefty camera is likely the best overall on this list, but it’s far too expensive to recommend to everyone. It will set you back $430, which is a lot, but you get a ton of features. The system shoots 1080p video, is completely waterproof and is wireless. This camera works great both outdoors and indoors and offers cloud storage for free. It even pre-buffers your videos when you go to watch playback! If only it was more affordable.

    2. iSmartAlarm iCamera Keep Pro

    Photo Credit: iSmartAlarm

    While this camera retails for $200, it offers a number of premium features. Mechanical tilt and pan let you feel like a master of security. You also get free cloud and local storage for all the footage you capture! As you would expect, it shoots 1080p and it even offers time-lapse shooting. The only downside to this camera is that it only works indoors!

    1. D-Link Full HD Wi-Fi Camera DCS-8300LH

    Photo Credit: Amazon

    A fully-integrated home security camera that offers 1080p shooting and Alexa support? Yes, please! Free cloud and local storage along with great voice commands make this one of the best home cameras. It even costs less than most of the competition: it’ll only set you back $90. While the other cameras on this list are great, the D-Link Full HD Wi-Fi Camera is the best overall interior home security camera. The only real downside here is some minor distortion from the style of body, but that’s not enough to make this anything less than the best bang for your buck.