Grant

How deeply do you value your old photos? If you’re like most people, they probably have a special place in your heart.

Pictures are more than images. They are a personal record of precious memories and a tribute to the history of your loved ones. And they shouldn’t be left sitting in a box.

Would you like to know what to do with old photos to show how special they are? Here are five creative things to do with old photos.

1. Digitize Your Old Photos

So many people have mourned the loss of precious pictures of people and memories they held dear. Pictures can get lost, and older pictures can deteriorate over time. This is why it’s a great idea to have professional scan pictures into a digital format for restoration.

Envision Video Services can take old pictures in any format and convert them into digital files. They will restore an old photo to its former glory, and they can even offer you colorized old photos originally in black and white. You’ll have restored images and have them available in digital form, so they won’t be lost as easily.

Click to learn more about this service.

2. Hang Restored Pictures in the House

After having the photo restored, you should consider having another print made to hang on the wall. Is there a better way to decorate your home than with precious memories?

Use nice wooden frames that complement your home and the photo well. You could even make a creative choice by making a picture collage surrounded by a string of lights to add a special vibe to your room.

3. Create a Scrapbook

Sometimes the traditional route is the best. Get a blank book and paste your restored prints into the book in an order and style that makes you happy. This makes a great gift for a family member, or it can be an excellent keepsake of your memories.

4. Create Postcards

How would you like to surprise a friend or family member with a postcard made from a shared memory? You can have several photos of past trips or events printed at a low cost and gift them to someone as a reminder of fun times you’ve had together. Pictures are all about people, and this is an excellent way to let someone know you care.

5. Buy a Digital Frame

Do you have several memories but too little wall space? Consider buying a digital frame.

These frames allow you to create digital slideshows that you can have on display in your home. This will allow you to relive every memory you hold dear daily.

What to Do With Old Photos

These suggestions for what to do with old photos are a great way to preserve all of your precious memories. Moreover, you now have creative ways to keep your pictures accessible and safe rather than falling apart in the attic.

For more articles like this, visit our life tips section.

According to American Community Survey (ACS) data, over 40 million Americans relocated each year for the past five years. That calculates to around 13% of Americans moving each year.

With this high number of moves happening each year in the country, it’s a small miracle that most of them go on without a hitch. Even with so many slick moves, there are scams and bad practices. It is in your best interests to be aware of every step of the process.

Finding the best moving company should be at the top of everyone’s moving to-do list (unless you’ve opted to do everything by yourself).

Read on to learn the tips for finding the best moving company for your budget.

Get Recommendations

Your friends and family are a great source of information when you want to get an affordable moving company. Ensure anyone you get recommendations from moved recently to get up-to-date information. Ask them how the company’s customer service was.

Get to know how the movers handled their items. Was anything damaged during the move? If there were damages, did the company offer any compensation?

Another important thing to know is whether the movers arrived on time.

Do Research

After talking to friends and family, you should have a list of companies you can look into. Research moving companies online to see how customers have reviewed their services. Google My Business, Yelp, and Facebook are good places to start checking customer reviews.

Only consider companies with mostly positive reviews and a rating of at least four stars. After checking reviews, visit the companies’ social media pages.

Observe how they interact with customers. Do they respond to clients’ questions on their pages? Also, check how a company responds to customers’ complaints.

Sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB) have more information on customers’ complaints. The BBB rates companies based on their performance and trustworthiness. So, you can trust a company that has a high BBB rating.

After that, check each company’s website. See what information each company has included on its website. Check their service offerings, the areas they serve, and their answers to frequently asked questions.

Consider Local Movers

Before venturing to companies outside your area, first, consider local movers. It is easier to get information on a local company’s services as someone you know has likely ever used their services.

Additionally, a local company has its office nearby. Thus, you can visit to make an inquiry.

Check Companies’ Credentials

A trustworthy moving company should have registered with the Department of Transport (DOT). Companies usually indicate their DOT number on their websites. If you do not find the DOT number on a company’s website, ask them to give you the number.

Use the DOT number to check for other credentials such as insurance and federal registration. You may also use the DOT number to search for complaints against a moving company. Your local moving company may not have a DOT number.

Check if a company has American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) certification. The AMSA does thorough background checks on moving companies before giving them certification.

All certified companies must comply with the American Trucking Association (ATA’s) code of ethics. Additionally, all companies must demonstrate professionalism and honest business conduct.

Since AMSA certification is for international movers, your local moving company may not be certified. Still, do not overwrite a company because it does not have the certification.

Know the Company’s Service Offerings

You do not just want your movers to take your items from point A to B. It is an added advantage if a moving company offers other support services. Ask a company about their service packages to see which one works best for you.

It is best to hire movers who provide packing services. Packing services are useful because professional movers know how to handle fragile goods. Additionally, they have the right packing materials for all items you want packed.

Some moving companies also provide furniture assembly services and car transportation. If you have fragile items, high-value art, and antiques, ask how the movers can help you keep them safe. You will also need special services for items like large aquariums, pianos, and bathtubs.

Get a Detailed Quote

Ask each house moving company to provide you with a cost estimate of their services. Get estimates from several companies. That way, you can compute your average moving costs. DO not hire a company with an estimate that is way above or below the average.

An appraiser from the moving company should view the items in your house to give an accurate estimate. The estimate you get from the movers should break down the total costs into individual items.

For a local move, companies typically charge a per-hour rate. For long-distance relocation, house moving companies base their rates on weight and distance.

Expect extra charges if you are moving out of or into a story building. You may also have to pay extra if your street is too narrow to accommodate the moving truck. In this case, the moving company has to get a smaller car to move the items from your house and onto the truck.

Understand Your Contract

The contract you get from a mover determines the terms of payment. Do not sign a contract if you do not understand its terms. Below are terms of payment to look out for in a contract:

Binding Estimate

Under a binding moving estimate, a moving company gives you a fixed price to pay based on the estimated weight of your items. If you sign a contract with a binding estimate, you agree to pay the quoted price.

The mover cannot change the price indicated on a binding estimate. Therefore, if your items weigh more than the estimated weight, you pay a lesser amount. But, if your items weigh less, you still have to pay the higher estimate.

Non-binding Estimate

Here, you still get an estimate based on the approximate weight of your belongings. However, this price is not binding. So, you may pay a higher or lesser amount depending on the actual weight of your belongings.

Non-binding to Exceed Estimate

Under a non-binding to exceed estimate, the estimated price you get from the moving company is the highest amount you have to pay them. If the items weigh less than the estimated weight, you pay a smaller amount. If they weigh more, you pay the indicated amount in the contract.

Besides charges, the contract should indicate the mover’s liability for damaged items and the pick-up and delivery dates.

Take your time to read the contract and consult on anything you do not understand. Be wary of any mover who pressures you to sign the contract quickly.

Hire the Best Moving Company

You can have a stress-free relocation experience without spending lots of cash. Follow the above tips to hire the best moving company in your area.

Remember, the best company will work with your budget. Also, ensure the company you choose can work with your timeline and has a favorable payment plan.

To read more on topics like this, check out the Life Tips category

Over the past two years, millions of people have re-discovered some of their former hobbies and pastimes. The global pandemic forced us all to stay home for a while, and reconsider how we spend our days.

For many, it meant a chance to get back to their childhood, and indulge in sports and activities they once enjoyed, such as rollerskating!

Are you interested in slipping on some skates and indulging in a heavy dose of nostalgia? If so, it’s important to start with the right gear. Today, we’re sharing the best roller skates for beginners, so you can look and feel the part!

Moxi Skates: Beach Bunny Roller Skates 

The Moxi Roller Skate Shop is a well-known brand, heralded for both its affordable price point and premium quality. If you’re new on skates, then we suggest starting with their Beach Bunny pair.

The best part about these skates is that they’re ultra-durable. You might not think much about stitching and top-tier vinyl when you make your purchase, but you’ll need a rugged pair to keep up with the inevitable falls and dings you’re bound to encounter as a first-time skater!

Another plus? These skates roll beautifully, especially when you skate across a wooden floor. If you’re unaccustomed to this sport, we definitely recommend starting in a rink versus a sidewalk, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to put this feature to the test!

Once you get the hang of the basics, you’ll be glad to know that your Beach Bunny skates can grow with you. While they’re one of the best roller skate brands for beginners, they’re also perfect for all types of skating.

Sure-Grip: Boardwalk Skates

Interested in learning to skate outdoors? If so, then we recommend starting with the Boardwalk Skates from Sure-Grip. These go-to quad-skates roll great on asphalt, but they’ll also help you traverse a rink floor with ease.

Beginners will appreciate that these skates feature a comfortable and supportive high-top boot. This assists with ankle stability and can help you feel more secure as you glide. The soft, grippy wheels are another bonus, keeping you upright and helping you maintain your balance.

This feature will come in handy as you learn how to move in your new pair. Before long, you’ll know how do to all of the basic moves, such as stopping in your skates. For more on how to perform that maneuver, check out this post: https://www.rollerskatedad.com/how-to-stop-on-roller-skates/.

Impala Hybrid Roller Skates

Do you plan to switch back and forth between asphalt skating and rink skating? If so, you need a pair that’s capable of keeping pace. A The Impala Hybrid Roller Skates can easily accommodate both types of surfaces.

Plus, they just look cool! You can find these particular skates in a range of different colors, designs, and patterns that range from lime green leopard print to solid sky blue.

Are you an eco-conscious shopper? If so, you’ll also be glad to know that PETA has designated these skates as one of its approved vegan products.

For best results, don’t take these skates straight from the rink to the streets. Try to stick to smooth terrain where possible, such as smooth asphalt basketball courts. This way, you can help your hybrid wheels last as long as possible.

XUDREZ PU Roller Skates

These inexpensive skates are great for absolute beginners. At under $50, they’re a minimal investment, which is what you want if you’re unsure whether you’ll actually enjoy skating or not!

However, don’t let the low price tag fool you. These skates are surprisingly high-quality and up to the task. They also make it easy to inject a little pizazz into your new favorite sport.

Upgrade to the light-up wheels, and you’ll be the coolest person on the rink when they dim the lights for the slow song round. One word of caution: The tongue on these skates isn’t very well padded like some other pairs, so just be sure to lace them up tightly to support your ankles.

C7 Quad Skates

If jazzy patterns are your jam, then you’ll be better off sticking with the Impala skates. However, what the C7 Quad Skates lack in personality, they more than make up for in function.

These vintage-inspired skates are built from vegan leather and feature comfortable, thick padding all the way around.

They ride smoothly, but this doesn’t mean the wheels are necessarily hybrid. While they’re technically designed to be used both indoors and outdoors, we suggest sticking to level surfaces that aren’t too bumpy. The small wheels can’t handle much jarring, but it’s easy to upgrade them to bigger ones if you stick with the sport.

Chaya Melrose Deluxe Skates

If you’re looking for a sleek, streamlined pair of skates, then the Chaya Melrose Deluxe Skates more than fit the bill. The exterior of each skate is smooth and uniform, and the colors extend all the way down to the toe.

Tough enough for outdoor use, keep in mind that the hardness of the wheels can vary depending on the specific skate color you select. Just keep all-purpose cleaner handy, because you’re bound to see scuff marks on the wheels’ white surface!

Find the Best Roller Skates For You

Kudos to you for embarking on a new adventure! If you’re ready to try skating, you deserve to find the best roller skates on the market! The ones we’ve listed here are all solid buys, but this list is far from exhaustive.

Take your time and try a few different pairs to see which ones you like the best! If possible, try to go to an in-person skate shop and try them on before you buy.

In the meantime, we’re here to keep you informed on everything from business tech to home tips. Check out our guides to learn more!

To read more on topics like this, check out the Life Tips category

Americans are increasingly scared of climate change, according to recent statistics! Now more than ever waste management is a priority.

Whether it’s your home or office if you have been struggling to control waste in your environment then you are probably looking for a solution.

You want to make sure that find a solution that is environmentally friendly and affordable. However, you may be wondering how you can select the best waste management company for your needs.

If you’re not sure exactly how to proceed, take a look at these tips, so you can find the best waste management options.

Recycling Ability

If you want to be good to the environment, then any waste removal company that you choose should have a good waste recycling reputation. With the focus being on the environment you want to make sure that minimum waste ends up in landfills.

This will help to reduce the number of toxins present in the environment. If you’re concerned about the damage your waste will do to the environment, then make sure you select a recycling company that has strong recycling credentials. Protecting the environment is a big part of smart waste management.

Reliable Service

One of the things you need to think about whether you are disposing of residential waste or industrial waste is the reliability of the company that you are choosing.

You want to make sure that the waste management company is in tune with your needs. Consider the style and type of waste removal that the company does before getting into any kind of agreement with them.

Consider Affordability

You should make sure that the waste management company that you choose is able to offer you an affordable pricing package. Shop around to find out what the going rates are for the type of waste removal that you are interested in.

Comparing and contrasting prices will help you to select the right company. Bear in mind that the cheapest service is not always the best.

You will want to make sure that you are getting a good deal but also great quality service as well.

Go With Experience

Another thing you should bear in mind when selecting a waste management company is their experience. You can find out more about this by asking them directly.

You can also check out the company’s reviews online. This will give you insight into their experience as well as the quality of customer service that they offer.

Find the Best Waste Management Company

Hiring the best waste management company can be challenging. You want to make sure that you are selecting a company that adheres to the highest standards.

If you are concerned about the environment you will need to make sure that you select a company that has strong recycling capabilities.

You should also consider, the affordability of the service, their reputation, and the level of experience they have. When you bear all of this in mind, you will make the right selection.

If you would like more informative tips, please visit the life tips section of the website.

 

Did you know that according to a large-scale research project by Kew, there are more than 360,000 flowering plant species in the world? Out of them, 36,000 are species of roses.

If you are a flower lover and bring varied species of flowers into your home every week, you might be wondering how to keep cut flowers fresh longer. Well, in this article below, we will give you tips on that so your fresh cut flowers last longer. So keep reading!

Trim Your Stems Every Few Days

This is a mistake that most folks make which is easily avoided. As soon as you bring your fresh-cut flowers home, trim the stems at an angle.

This will ensure that your flowers have good water intake, as the flower stems won’t be sitting flat on the bottom of the vase. Also, retrim your bouquets every few days, so you can keep them fresh longer.

Remove Any Leaves Below the Water Line

No matter what wrapping solutions your florist used, you will need to prune all the leaves that are below the waterline. This will reduce bacteria formation and keep your cut flowers looking healthier. Also, keep an eye out on your bouquet and remove any dead or loose leaves and petals.

Change the Water and Flower Food Every 3 Days

It is possible to water your cut flowers unwisely. Of course, you will want to put your bouquet into a vase filled with water and flower food right away. But also, you will want to change the water every 3 days, so your flowers have fresh flower food and water to sustain themselves.

Ensure that you mix in the flower food properly and don’t make the water too concentrated or diluted. The water should be at room temperature and if you notice that your vase is getting moldy or dingy, then empty it and wash it properly, before putting your flowers in there again.

Avoid Direct Sunlight and Fruits

Did you know that ripening fruits release a gas called ethylene that can cause your cut flowers to droop faster? This can reduce your flower arrangement’s longevity.

So keep your cut flowers away from fruits. And also from direct sunlight, vents, open windows, or anything else that generates heat, as this can dehydrate your flowers and cause them to wilt rapidly.

Speak to your florist about some tips they can share with you on how to keep cut flowers last, as they are the experts here.

How to Keep Cut Flowers Fresh – Follow Our Tips

Your job doesn’t end once you purchase a bouquet and put them out on your living room table. You will need to do a couple of additional things, as listed above, to ensure you keep your fresh-cut flowers looking fresh longer.

Now that you know how to keep cut flowers fresh, your guests will get surprised to see how healthy your blooms look. You are welcome to keep your secret or share it with them.

If you wish to read more lifestyle posts, check out the rest of our website.

Exhausted after a long day at work? Feeling like you need a vacation? Don’t worry, there are plenty of ways to relax and unwind without leaving town.

If you’re looking for some ways to relax after a long day at work, check out these ten ideas.

1. Get some exercise

Exercise is a great way to relieve stress and tension. It can also help you sleep better at night. Try to get in at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day. Aside from the obvious physical benefits, exercise can also help to improve your mood and mental state.

2. Take a relaxing bath

A warm bath is a great way to relax both your body and mind. Add some soothing aromatherapy or add a few drops of lavender oil to your bathtub to help you relax even more. This is also a great way to get some quality “me” time if you have trouble unwinding after work.

3. Connect with friends or family

Spending time with loved ones can help reduce stress levels. Whether you stay in touch via text, social media, or in person, quality time with those you care about can help improve your mood and make you feel more relaxed.

4. Take up a hobby

Having a hobby can help take your mind off of work and the stresses of everyday life. Whether you enjoy painting, hiking, biking, or gardening, taking some time to do something you love can help reduce stress levels. You may even find that your hobby can help you unwind after a long day at work.

5. Practice meditation or deep breathing

Meditation and deep breathing exercises can help to calm and focus the mind. There are many different ways to meditate, so find a method that works best for you. Even just a few minutes of meditation each day can help reduce stress levels.

6. Get enough sleep

Make sure you’re getting enough sleep each night. Most adults need at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night. If you’re not getting enough sleep, it can make it more difficult to cope with stress during the day. This can create a vicious cycle, so make sure to get enough rest each night.

7. Eat healthy and stay hydrated

Eating healthy foods and staying hydrated can help improve your energy levels and mood. When you’re feeling run down, it can be tempting to reach for unhealthy comfort foods. However, these foods can actually make you feel worse in the long run. Make sure to eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of water throughout the day.

8. Get a massage

A massage can help to relieve muscle tension and improve circulation. It’s a great way to relax both your body and mind. If you don’t have time for a professional massage, try giving yourself a hand or foot massage. You can also purchase massage chairs online or at your local store to use at home.

9. Take a break from technology

If you find yourself feeling stressed or overwhelmed, take a break from technology. disconnect from the internet and your devices for a little while. Spend some time offline doing something you enjoy. This can help you to relax and focus on the present moment.

10. Practice self-care

Self-care is important for both your physical and mental health. Make sure to schedule some time each week to do something that makes you happy. This can be anything from reading your favorite book to taking a yoga class. Taking care of yourself will help reduce stress levels and improve your overall well-being.

To read more on topics like this, check out the Life Tips category