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Fun Drink Ideas for Your Next Party

There are few things in life quite as fun and rewarding as hosting a party or big event. Fun is almost always flowing when we’re together with family and friends, and many people relish the opportunity to be a great host. If you are planning out your next big party, be sure to start thinking about a unique and eye catching drink menu for guests. Let’s face it, most of your party guests are going to head to the bar as soon as they arrive and you’re going to want to be sure to have lots of options.

If you are having trouble deciding what to pick up at the liquor store, don’t sweat it! There are tons of exciting drink ideas and recipes out there for you to experiment with. As long as you put in just enough preparation and thought, your drink menu will be an even bigger hit than the inflatable sport mascots or nacho dip. Let’s take a look at some fun drink ideas for your next big party.

Chocolate Orange Cocktails

What party would be complete without some cocktails on the menu? Sure, some of your guests probably aren’t in a cocktail mood, but those guests can just drink some light beer or, even worse, a non-alcoholic drink!

Now, everyone knows more traditional cocktails, and sometimes even those can get a bit boring. So, why not introduce a little bit of flavor anarchy into the mix? Consider mixing up some delicious and sweet chocolate orange cocktails. These cocktails are great as an after dinner treat, or make great pairing drinks with light appetizers or starters.

To get going, all you will need is some shaved chocolate, vodka, orange juice, orange syrup, and orange zest.

A Flaming Volcano

How about a flaming volcano? While that name is pretty intimidating, we promise none of your party guests will end up like the residents of Pompeii; at worst they may wake up with a hangover!

This type of concoction actually involves live fire, so do be careful if you are considering adding this to your bar menu, and be sure to let anyone who orders a flaming volcano to know what to expect. 

If you are determined to have an eruption of fun at your big gathering pick up some 151 proof rum, vodka, lemon lime soda, falernum, simple syrup, and blue curaçao.

Classic Old Fashioned

Why not incorporate a classic while you’re at it? Listen, fun and new drinks are absolutely a part of wowing party guests, but at the end of the day, the classics are classics for a reason. So, you’ve decided you want some oldie but goodies on your drink menu, but which drink should you choose?

You absolutely can not go wrong with an old fashioned. A tried and true drink that has been on the lips of bar patrons and bartenders for decades. This bourbon cocktail’s roots can be traced back to Louisville, Kentucky and some say you can taste just a little bit of the south in every gulp. If you are running low on bourbon, whiskey can definitely also get the job done in a pinch. 

In order to put this classic crowd pleaser together, you’re going to need to find yourself some super fine sugar, toasted sugar, or a sugar cube works as well. Once you’ve got your sugar squared away, pick up some bitters. There are a few different types of bitters that work, but agnostura is traditionally used.

Then be sure to stock up on bourbon and whiskey, and finally, grab some oranges and cocktail cherries.

How Unsafe Are Bald Tires?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 400 deaths and 78,000 crashes occur each year due to tire failure. To steer clear of becoming a statistic, you must understand some basic tire safety principles and how bald tires cause serious accidents. Avoid waiting too long to get your replacement tires for motorcycles by knowing what to look for when you’re inspecting your tires.

How Long Do Motorcycle Tires Last?

Every rider and machine are unique thanks to different riding styles, frequency and terrains. A person who takes a cruiser bike out on the highway a couple of weekends a month may experience slower tire wear rates than an individual riding a street bike for the daily commute or a motocross racer hitting the dirt during open riding sessions every weekend. Add in the smaller contact footprint and high power-to-weight ratios and you can see why it’s difficult to estimate the average lifespan of a motorcycle tire.

The Risks of Running on Bald Tires

Your tires’ tread performs the critical function of providing traction, especially on slick, hard or soft surfaces. It can also channel water away from each tire. Without it, you have nothing to grip the road and your wheels could spin out of control. This loss of control impacts your ability to safely steer and ride your bike. Bald tires present a higher accident risk in several ways:

  • Excessive heat buildup
  • Hydroplaning
  • Loss of air pressure
  • Slipping
  • Blowouts

Proper tread is also key to keeping your tires cool since its grooves also allow airflow to cool the material. Without it, excessive friction generates more heat and weakens the tire’s surface. The lack of tread and grooves also leads to hydroplaning, since there’s nothing to redirect water away. Bald tires offer less surface area, preventing reliable grip on snow or ice. Finally, bald tires lose air at a much faster rate. Underinflated tires can cause skidding, making it harder to control your bike.

When Should I Replace My Tires?

As a responsible rider, you should regularly monitor the condition of your tires. Tread depth is the best indicator of a tire’s health and performance capacity. Replace your tires when their tread depth reaches 2/32 of an inch.

If you haven’t bought a tire depth gauge from your trusted cheap motorcycle parts supplier, the easiest way to check this is with the “penny test.” Simply insert a penny into one of the tire’s grooves. If the tread’s surface doesn’t meet or cover the top of Abraham Lincoln’s head, you need new tires right away. Don’t forget to check for other signs such as cracking, punctures or pressure loss. Keep in mind that tires over five years old are unsafe to use regardless of the amount of remaining tread.

Safety Comes First on Your Bike

It’s common knowledge among most powersports enthusiasts that riding on bald tires is extremely dangerous. Yet it’s easy to underestimate just how unsafe bald tires are. Now that you’ve armed yourself with good information, check out your powersports parts supplier for dependable replacements.

 

Are Online Schools and Universities Trustworthy

 

The rise of online schools and universities has made education accessible to a lot of people. Even those who are working full-time now have the chance to pursue a different career or step things up. The problem is that some of these schools are unreliable.

Therefore, you might worry that if you pursue an online course, it won’t give you the results you hoped for. Before you turn down the idea of online learning, you need to understand that many people have succeeded in achieving their goals because they pursued an online degree.

Look for online schools with an actual campus

Some universities receive authority from the government to open an online school. Given their accreditation, you can rely on them to provide you with the quality of education you deserve. If the university has been around for years, you won’t have to worry about the certificate or degree that you receive. Employers will probably accept your degree in the same way that they do with people who finished their programs in a conventional school.

Check the ratings and accreditations

Different accrediting bodies check both conventional universities, online schools, and mixed programs. If the online program received accreditation from a reliable accrediting body, you can trust that it will be suitable for you. The ratings they receive from their current students are also crucial in determining if you can trust the school.

Ask the current students

If you’re unsure if the university or school can offer quality education, you can ask around. Talk to current students and ask them if they’re happy with the training they receive. If the feedback is generally positive, you can pursue the plan.

Check the detailed description of the program

Find out which online school can offer the program you want to pursue. For instance, if you wish to receive nursing certification online, you can find quality schools that offer this certificate. Read the detailed description of the programs provided to find out if it suits you. Don’t rely only on the title of a program since the name might vary from one school to another. As you delve into the descriptions, you can decide if a program is worth pursuing.

Give it a shot

As long as you can confirm that the university is legally operating, you can continue with your chosen course. You also need to talk with the program coordinators if you have any questions. You can also discuss with them your status. For instance, you’re working full-time, and you are a mother of three. They will then find a way to match the program to your needs so you can still finish it.

Online programs are flexible. As long as you choose the right school to pursue your degree, it will work for you.

Once the program is over, you can decide how to use it to your advantage. You can apply for a promotion or consider other careers to pursue.

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The Essential Facts You Should Know about UK Pensions as an Expat in the UK

 

As an expat in the United Kingdom, you may already know that you can be eligible for receiving a state pension if you reside and work in the country and you make contributions to National Insurance through your employer. Ideally, you can acquire your pension once you retire or reach the state pension age, which is currently 65 (although this is set to increase in 2020 to 66 years of age). But what else should you know about how the pension system works in the United Kingdom, and what are the most important facts and factors you should keep in mind? The following are the essential facts you should know about UK pensions as an expat in the UK, so you are well-informed.

Will you receive a full pension?

If you would like to receive the full pension, you need to have a contribution period of 35 years, meaning you would need to have made NI contributions for 35 years or more. But even if you have only made contributions for ten years, you can still receive the state pension, although it will not be in full. This is referred to as the pro-rata amount, which is calculated based on the total amount of contributions you’ve made for those 10 years, or more.

If you haven’t continuously resided or worked in the United Kingdom, you will be happy to know that your eligibility for the UK state pension doesn’t have to follow ten consecutive years. For example, if you are living and working in the UK for three years, move abroad for the next two years, and then go back to the UK and work for another seven years, you can still be eligible for the state pension. Bear in mind, though, that if you have gaps in your NI contributions for a few years, then you should purchase voluntary contributions (class 3), so you can fill in the gaps. Once you do this, you should be able to claim a higher amount from your UK state pension.

What more can you expect as an expat?

As an expat or foreign individual residing and working in the country, there are different terms when it comes to your entitlement for a UK pension as well. Fortunately, as an expat, you should be able to claim the pension once you reach your age of retirement, as long as you have contributed for more than ten years. But if you want more options when it comes to pensions for expats (and a more comfortable retirement), you can also opt for private pension schemes or workplace pension schemes if you aren’t part of your company’s automatic enrolment.

What about retirement outside the United Kingdom?

If you would like to retire outside the United Kingdom, some taxes or restrictions may apply. You may have to contend with taxes, for instance, and the rates for tax will depend on the agreements between the country where you are planning to retire or reside and the UK. In certain cases, you may have to pay tax for both countries, for example. In this kind of situation, though, you have some options: you can leave your pension in the United Kingdom and then withdraw your pension from another country, or you can move your pensions to another country; you can also do a combination of each option. It’s important that you seek help and advice as the tax implications can make a significant dent in your pension entitlement.

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Why is Vitamin C Serum So Popular and is it Here to Stay

Vitamin C is one of the more powerful elements when it comes to skincare, with almost endless benefits. From encouraging collagen renewal to revitalize skin’s elasticity to help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, to helping repair sun damage, the list of results goes on and on. Prior to investing in the best Vitamin C Serum, it is important to understand why it is so popular.

Encourages Collagen Production

The regular use of Vitamin C serum helps to boost collagen production, filling in fine lines and wrinkles. This leads to a more youthful looking appearance without the need for potentially risky and expensive cosmetic work.

Maintains Younger Looking Skin

Regardless of your age, it is always a great idea to be pro-active about avoiding fine lines, wrinkles, sagging skin, and other signs of aging. In addition to encouraging collagen production, Vitamin C Serum helps your skin look younger by brightening your complexion and evening out your skin tone.

Protects Skin from Sun Damage

Since Vitamin C is an antioxidant, it naturally helps to repel things that can cause damage to it such as UVB and UVA rays. Take note, however, that Vitamin C Serum should not be considered an alternative to sunscreen, but as an addition to your regular sunscreen application instead.

Improves Moisture and Hydration

For those of you who experience dry skin, Vitamin C Serum is a must. Topical Vitamin C delivers a high concentration of vitamins that the body needs to improve hydration and moisture levels.

Is Vitamin C Serum Here to Stay?

With almost countless benefits, this incredible serum is definitely here to stay. Thanks to it being completely natural, there is no need to worry about how your skin will react because there are no harsh chemicals or uncertain ingredients.

To learn more about why Vitamin C Serum is so popular, check out Timeless Skin Care today!

 

How You Can Effectively Treat Toenail Fungus and Do Away with it Once and for All

 

The toenail is a thickened extension of the skin’s top layer, and it is made of the same kind of protein, which is called keratin. The toenail grows from a particular area underneath the skin, called the matrix, and it is connected to the nail bed and blood vessels underneath as well. Whether you are aware of it or not, our toenails go through a lot of stress, especially when we constantly wear shoes, when we stub our toes, or when we have damp socks and shoes, which can lead to the buildup of fungi and bacteria. This is one reason why we may experience problems with our toenails from time to time, and one of the most common issues is toenail fungus. But what exactly causes toenail fungus, and how can we effectively treat it? If you have been suffering from toenail fungus for some time and would like to do away with it once and for all, here’s what you should know.

What causes it?

There are many factors which can cause toenail fungus, but here’s the thing: the fungus itself may often be the same kind which causes another condition, athlete’s foot. As a matter of fact, individuals who are prone to developing athlete’s foot may also be prone to developing toenail fungus. Toenail fungus can affect everyone, but it more commonly affects men, especially as an individual gets older. Also, some people with diseases like diabetes may also be more susceptible to forming the condition, and it also affects people with lower or weaker immune systems than most. Other causes of toenail fungus include hyperhidrosis (a condition which causes sweaty feet), nail trauma, shoes which provide a dark and moist environment for fungus to thrive, and the sharing of nail equipment or footwear with people who already have the condition.

The symptoms of toenail fungus

Toenail fungus symptoms can vary, but the most common symptom of the condition is nail discolouration, where the nail becomes white, brownish yellow, or yellow. The nail may also thicken as the condition worsens, and there will often be an increase in white particles or debris underneath the nail. The infected portion of the nail may also appear to be loose from the skin or nail bed, and the nail may look like it is crumbling or breaking down.

The treatment

If you visit a specialist for toenail fungus, treatment may include the use of antifungal medication combined with nail debridement, where the nail is trimmed, and debris is removed from the nail. Debridement serves to lessen the nail’s thickness, and it may also allow the medication to penetrate more thoroughly. Debridement is usually performed once a month for better results.

The use of antifungal medication is also common, particularly in the form of topical treatments. There are both prescription and over-the-counter topical treatments, but they sometimes have limited success because the fungus lies deep within the nail and beneath the nail bed, and treatment like this doesn’t usually penetrate directly into the nail bed.

Another form of toenail fungus treatment which has been getting a lot of praise is laser treatment. Unlike other treatment which can take months, and which may be particularly burdensome, laser treatment is usually done in only two or three sessions, depending on the severity of the condition. It is also painless and doesn’t require recovery, with each session lasting only between 12 to 20 minutes.

To read more on topics like this, check out the health category.

The Top Three Little-Known Factors You Should Think about when Specifying a Hydraulic Power Unit

 

Hydraulic power units are a clear necessity in order for a hydraulic or electro-hydraulic system to function, no matter what its purpose is – whether it’s for tyre or rubber machinery or other applications. But hydraulic power units come in many forms and sizes and specifications, and this is why it’s crucial for you to choose the right one. It has to have the ideal combination of great performance, functionality, durability, power, and efficiency, and it also has to have the correct capabilities for whatever you require. But whilst it’s all well and good to consider the obvious factors, such as the power and force, the operating environment, and so on, there are other factors which you may not be aware of as well. Here, then, are the top three little-known factors you should think about when specifying or choosing a hydraulic power unit.

  1. Serviceability

The thing is that even the most durable hydraulic power unit may require servicing at some point. Over time, you may need to have parts or components replaced, and consumables like filters need to be in locations which are easily accessible. Even if a component or part is not as easily replaced as a filter, such as a motor, it will have to be easily accessed, so you need to think about how easy it will be to replace components when the time comes.

But aside from this, if you want your unit’s lifespan and serviceability to increase, it pays to make sure that the hoses, tubing, and piping have the proper radiuses for bending and are additionally well-secured and clamped. You may be surprised how a seemingly small thing like this can shorten the service life of a unit. Pre-engineered or standard hydraulic power units already have the advantage when it comes to this, as they are designed to use good operational practices, but custom designs should also take the proper design method into consideration.

  1. Noise

The manufacturers of hydraulic power units should also consider how noise can affect operations when it comes to the power unit. There are, for instance, limitations regarding noise levels in particular spaces (especially confined ones), so these need to be followed. If a hydraulic power unit doesn’t follow noise specifications, you may well be required to provide workers with protective devices, especially those who work in close proximity to the unit. A pre-engineered hydraulic power unit may be a good choice in this, since manufacturers may typically incorporate these specifications in regards to noise. But when it comes to noise, poor installation may also be a factor, so you should make sure the unit is installed correctly.

  1. Energy efficiency

Another little-known factor you should consider when specifying or choosing a hydraulic power unit is energy efficiency. Whilst you can always make use of e-motors for more energy efficiency, you should also think about the selection of components, as this can also influence efficiency and consumption. This is especially crucial for applications using simultaneous operations or functions or varying degrees of flow requirements or pressure, where variable displacement pumps and frequency converters may bring the most value for money.

Image attributed to Hydraproducts.co.uk

To read more on topics like this, check out the technology category.

Overlooked Tips for Driving Online Engagement

Getting online is an indispensable part of modern business, but even the best of us can miss opportunities every now and then. Covering as many bases as possible not only increases your visibility, but it can also help drive engagement and interaction, which can be a key determinant for long-term relationships.

So what opportunities here are often overlooked, and to which should you consider paying extra attention?

Prime among online business today is to understand that not all social media is created equal. While having a Facebook account is almost a necessity, this is often the only step which many small to medium-sized businesses take, especially if the owners or managers are not up-to-date with current trends.

Instead, you need to keep in mind that while this can serve as a strong base, further specialisation is the key for raising the bar to the next level. As with any advertising efforts, the path depends on the business you operate, so let’s use examples to make things clearer.

If your business is one which relies on quick updates then twitter.com could easily become a cornerstone of your operation. A clothing store with big surprise sales could let their Twitter audience know when these occurred, and the instant and targeted nature of how Twitter operates would synergise perfectly.

This could even be used for spot sales, where the first ten users to bring in their phones with a specific Twitter post shown could enter a draw for free goods, or big discounts.

If the visual component for your business is of the utmost importance, then social media like Instagram.com should not be overlooked as a pillar of visibility. A landscaping or interior decorating business could utilise this for before and after shots of their most successful operation, listing these in their profile as tagged images.

This is not only great for customers either, as there are many potential viewers out there who simply appreciate great design, and these people can act as signal boosters.

When it comes to broader visibility, it is important to keep in mind that it’s not just you advertising for your business, as there can be a whole host of related websites which aggregate goods and services which can help. These could be an enormous help in terms of reaching a wider audience, and so you be sure to reach out to these reviewers whenever possible.

This might seem a little confusing, so to explain we’ll look at the online casino example. While these large businesses operate all over the internet, they also generate a lot of competition, meaning it can be difficult for customers to find exactly what they want. Because of this, websites like canadacasino.net review the different websites, displaying general positives, bonuses, and specialisations, among other important information.

Reaching out to similar websites for your industry can act as free publicity, so don’t overlook this possible avenue.

The final tip to keep in mind is that nobody knows everything about the best possible route of online engagement and that through paying attention you yourself might stumble across something new or underutilised. The internet as an advertising resource still has considerable growth potential, and by staying diligent you might discover a new path, or one not yet fully explored.

To read more on topics like this, check out the business category.

Ways to Make the Best Out of Your Small Residential Space

 

A small space to spend your whole life should be explored to make it a more desirable place to live in. You need to use your creativity to make the best out of the given space you have. Maximising all parts of your residence is the key to make it look more attractive and functional.

Make your facade look inviting

Usually, people tend to judge the beauty and totality of a house by just looking at its outside appearance. What others say about how fair or good-looking your facade is a point to consider in making some changes. All you need is the proper placing of colours, designs, and structures to start with. Look for examples online or just in your neighbourhood of how small houses look big when some innovation and optimisation is applied.

Make an interior that is functional and remarkable

One way to satisfy yourself and other people with your home is through the beauty of the facade and what can be seen inside. You can have a fully functional house even with limited space. What it means is to establish a division as to where you will put your living area, dining area, kitchen, bathroom and bedroom. Make every area distinct from the other and add the perfect furniture to add flavour to its ambience. Try to put some decorations or displays that will reflect your personality. And lastly, select the paint colour that will complement all the features of the interior.

Share your driveway with a mini garden

Maximise your space to the fullest by sharing your driveway with a mini garden. The water used in washing your car can be used for watering your plants too. You can plant flowers for aesthetics or vegetables if you want it to be more productive. Just put a divider or garden railings to protect your plants and make your garden recognisable.

Install a proper lighting system

Another aspect to consider that will enhance the beauty of your house and at the same time give an effect that your house interior looks larger is by installing proper lighting for every part of your dwelling. There are bulbs available in stores to choose from that vary in sizes, light effects, and energy-saver features.

Have a regular maintenance check of your house

A “good” house should not only look good but should also function well for the needs of its dwellers. Regular maintenance is necessary to prevent any damage to your property and ensure the safety of your family. What to check regularly are the electricity and water connections and replacement of small and functional house materials, to name a few. You may also consider getting pest control services to get rid of domestic pests.

No matter how small or big your house is, try to make it a home where you can sit down, relax and share more memories with your loved ones.

 

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Everything You Need to Create the Perfect Working Environment

If you have your own company with a work office or environment that you and your employees work from, then it is essential that you utilize the space so that you are all as productive as possible. We are much more likely to work harder and be more productive in an environment that we feel comfortable with, therefore, you should spend some time considering what makes the perfect working environment.

The more traditional and old-fashioned work office decors are very much a thing of the past, and now it is more than acceptable to be bold and creative when it comes to designing the perfect working environment. Create a workspace that has a good vibe and is enjoyable to be in can drastically improve the morale of your staff and subsequently increase productivity. Sounds good, doesn’t it? To give you a helping hand, we have created this checklist that offers everything you need to create the perfect working space so that you and your employees can thrive at work!

Integration of Brand Colors

It is important that your working environment is created around the company and the work you are trying to achieve. To reiterate this to your staff, you should consider using the colors that feature in your brand identity and logo as the main colors when creating the workspace. This means that you are all reminded of your purpose at work and the overall company aims that each task you complete is working towards.

Separate Different Spaces with Rugs

If your office space isn’t that big then you may want to use rugs as a way of indicating the different uses of each individual space. For example, a rug is a great way to create an outline in an office space, without using a physical barrier. So, if you are worried about a desk space and meeting area looking too close together, you can use a rug to divide the two areas up.

Adding a rug to your office space is also a great way of making your work environment feel more welcoming and inviting. While it is important that as much work as possible gets done when your employees at work, it is also crucial that the work environment is a warm and safe place that people enjoy spending time in.

Works of Art

Sometimes in work offices, especially those that have a more minimalist vibe, blank walls can look too empty, which makes the space look bland and boring. Therefore, a good way to fill up the empty walls is to hang popular pieces of art. By hanging work up in your office, you can make the environment feel more interesting and brighter, which is not only impressive to any visitors that attend meetings in your offices but also are vibrant offerings for your employees on a daily basis.

Add Refreshments

By offering your colleagues refreshments, you are not showing them your concern for their well-being, but you are also making sure that they are staying hydrated. Drinking enough water is essential for our general health and wellbeing, and research has also found a link between dehydration and a decrease in productivity.

Therefore, you should consider investing in a commercial water cooler that is available from Bevi. They allow you to offer your employees customized beverages through office sparkling water machines and a flavored water dispenser. Bevi’s hassle-free and plastic-saving service allows you to keep your workforce hydrated for less than the cost of an end of the month work party! They also allow you to have refreshments on hand and impress potential clients when they attend your office for a meeting.

Let Employees Personalize Their Own Space

While you may want to keep your office space simple and minimalistic, it is important that you let your employees personalize their own workspaces. It is where they will spend most of their time! By allowing your staff to have their own favorite mug and pictures of their loved ones on their desk, they will feel more relaxed and at home, which can help boost productivity. Remember, happy employees are productive employees!

Make it Comfortable

One of the main things you need to consider when kitting out and creating the perfecting working environment is how comfortable the workspace is. You need to ensure that desk chairs have the correct amount of back support and are comfortable to sit in. If they aren’t, then you may find staff using every excuse possible to be out of their chair.

The view that a workspace has to be rigid and restrictive is an old-fashioned perspective, so if you want your company to be as productive as possible, you should consider these added extras that will help you to create the perfect environment and boost overall productivity.

To read more on topics like this, check out the business category.