Reinventing Yourself

Now is the time to start a new chapter in style.

Image - Pixabay CC0 License

There are many reasons why you may want to inspire a significant transformation in your life. Quite frankly, the pandemic has probably highlighted many of the issues that you are not currently happy about. Now that the world is slowly returning to a sense of normality, there has never been a better time to reinvent yourself.

If you are looking to reinvent yourself, it is easy to assume that wholesale changes are required. In many cases, though, that simply isn’t true. You would probably be better off targeting just a small number of issues. Characteristic changes can be as simple as overcoming shyness. While it’s a lot easier said than done, knowing which goal you want to focus on will make the process a lot simpler to manage.

Personality traits are a great focal point, but you may also find that reviewing the company you keep is vital. We are all influenced by our surroundings. If you have pessimistic and unambitious people around you, it’s hard to unlock your potential. Likewise, if they lead you to bad habits and regrettable decisions, you may find that taking a step back is required. If nothing else, it allows you to dedicate more time to the people who inspire you. 

Although the right support network will change your life for the better, you must also address your life. After all, only you can take responsibility and make things happen. Feeling unfulfilled at work is a particularly common issue. Sometimes you need a new career, but many people just need a change of scenery. Caregivers may find that opting to provide in-care services is more rewarding. The chance to develop one-to-one interactions with patients is a wonderful thing.

Whatever industry you’re in, securing a higher rate of income is another target. Aside from the added sense of self-worth, it will afford a better quality of life. This could mean updating your home, taking vacations, or treating yourself to new fashion items. Besides, financial stability will lift a weight of stress from your shoulders. In turn, this should translate to increased happiness and peace of mind.

Reinventing yourself can also mean adding something to your identity. Learning a new skill or finding a new hobby is an ideal solution. New musicians, for example, will see their entire recreational life take on a whole new vibe. Aside from playing at home, you’ll attend gigs, joining communities, and generally be around your new passion. Similar situations can surface when taking on new sports or other activities.

 

Music production can be a great hobby for those who are passionate about music and have an ear for sound. There are a few things that you need to get started, including a computer with the proper software, some musical equipment and a quiet place to work. Once you have the software installed, you can begin exploring all of the different features and options. Many producers start by creating simple beats or loops with a Loop Station Pedal, and then build from there. If you get stuck, there are plenty of online tutorials and forums that can offer guidance. As you become more experienced, you can start experimenting with different sounds and techniques.  

Starting a new chapter could also focus on no longer making the mistakes that have previously held you back. Quitting bad habits or situations that lead you to regrettable decisions will help you focus on building a better future. Even the seemingly small alterations can inspire a significant improvement to your quality of life. In turn, it can help you finally unlock your full potential and become who you want to be.

After the struggles of the past two years, it’s the least you deserve. You’ve got this!

 

 

This is a contributed post. 

 

Happy Father's Day

 

Must Haves For Your Next BBQ

I received these products from Carpathen for review.  They offer a variety of flamping, BBQ and gardening products.  They also have an Amazon store.  Whether you're looking for a last minute Father's Day gift, or just something that will make your summer BBQs tastier and easier, you're going to love these products.

The Z-Smoker Pellet Tube will transform your grill into a smoker.  Due to its small size, this pellet tube smoker fits inside most grills to make it super easy to add a delicious wood smoked flavor to your food without needing an expensive cold smoker.  Just fill the smoker tube with food grade wood pellets in the flavor of your choice and light.  You'll get 5 hours of thin blue smoke that will infuse your meat with an awesome smoky flavor.  Works great with pork, ribs, cured meat, hot dogs, sausages, chicken, cheese, fish and more.

The Z-Smoker kit includes:  

• 1 Smoke tube
• 1 Smoking Guide with Amazing Delicious Recipes and Smoking Tips in digital format
• 1 Meat Temperature Chart (in digital format)
• 1 Marinade
• Rubs and BBQ Sauces Guide (in digital format)
• 1 Pellet Tube Smoker User Guide (hard copy)
• 1 Canvas Bag for Easy Storage

You get everything you need to have a wonderfully delicious BBQ.  You can also find the Z-Smoker on Amazon.

Nothing says summer like roasting hot dogs and marshmallows over a campfire.  These Roasting Sticks make it super easy and convenient to roast these delicious campfire staples.  No need to wander around in the woods searching for suitable branches to clumsily chop for a decent roasting stick.  These roasting sticks are perfect.  

They telescope like a radio antenna to extend from 10" to 34" to create the perfect length.  The fork can rotate independently from the handle with just two fingers on the colored plastic ring.  The handles are made of natural wood and are comfortably pleasant to hold.  And heat is not conducted through the rod, so there's no danger of being burnt from holding them.

The set includes six different ring colors on the handles, making it easy to tell which stick belongs to who.   This is essential when you have more than one child because children fight over everything!  Clean up is super easy, simply wipe with a wet cloth and a little soap.  Then retract the handles and place the sticks back in the included zippered bag.  

They're compact, easy to store and convenient to carry, making it easy to take along with you on all of your adventures.  You can also find these Roasting Sticks on Amazon.

The Perfect Sweater For Every Occasion

I received this product from Oliver Charles for review.

This Crew Neck Sweater ($225) will quickly become your favorite article of clothing.  It's stylish, comfortable, unisex and versatile.  It works just as well for everyday wear when paired with jeans as it does for dressy occasions paired with a skirt or dress pants.  There are six different colors to choose from (undyed, emerald blue, light grey, charcoal, dark red and navy blue), and since it is so soft and comfortable, you're probably going to want one in every color!

This sweater is perfect for all ages.  Sizes range from XXS to XXL and it's actually true to size.  It wears with a slimming professional fit and will shape itself to your body to fit both broader and narrower shoulder lines.  It's roomy in the armpits, so it won't ride up or bunch up when you raise your arms, and it will fit those with longer arms and taller torsos as well.

The sweater is made of khullu, the wool fiber that grows around the neck and belly of the Tibetan yak.  Khullu is known for its durability, comfort and antimicrobial properties.  Yet, it remains soft and luxurious to the touch.  It's soft like cashmere, but easier to care for (it's machine washable) and better for the planet than synthetics.  

3D-knitted in 1 entire piece, there are no seams means there is less fabric waste while the strength is increased.  This also give it greater mobility and comfort.  The hidden aerated knit helps to regulate heat.  It will keep you warm, yet remains breathable.  Another great thing about this sweater is that it doesn't trap odors! 

You'll love this soft and comfortable sweater so much!  It's perfect for even the most sensitive skin, and you will revel in the softness!

A Stylish Watch Gift Set

I received this product from Groovy Guy Gifts for review.  This is a great site to shop for gifts for the men in your life.  Whether you're looking for a gift for Dad, husband/boyfriend, brother, groomsman or friend (or something for yourself because you deserve it!) check out their site to see their full selection.  They have TONS of great products!

The Cool Hand Groomsman ($89.99) is actually designed as a groomsman gift, but it makes a great gift for any man.  The set comes with an engraved wristwatch, sunglasses and cufflinks, all displayed and stored in a sleek watch organizer box that measures 13" long, 8.125" wide and 3" high. 

The box is made of black vegan leather with a faux suede lining inside and a glass top.  There are four watch compartments, two compartments for storing rings or cufflinks and three other compartments where you can store sunglasses, jewelry, keys, spare change or whatever else you choose to store there.  You can make it even more special by personalizing the glass top with a name or the initials of your choice.

The watch is a classic timepiece that's made from real sandalwood and genuine leather.  The sunglasses are stylish and functional, made with sebring woodgrain plastic and are perfect for those sunny summer days.  The watch and the sunglasses can both be personalized.  The cufflinks are brass and make a stylish addition to any suit or tuxedo.  They do say "Groomsman" on them, but they look awesome!

This gift set is sure to impress anyone who receives it.  And you'll turn heads when you wear the watch and sunglasses.  The box is great to empty your pockets into at the end of your day, keeping it all together, organized and putting an end to clutter.

You can find this product as well as many other gift ideas for the men in your life on their website.

Kids Love This Toothpaste and Mouthwash

I received these products from Frost Oral Care for review.

With summer upon us, it can be difficult to get our kids to take the time to practice good oral hygiene.  They're always in such a hurry to get out in the sun and have fun, that they often forget about brushing their teeth and complain that they don't have time when you remind them.  But thanks to Frost's natural smile care line, your kids will be excited to brush their teeth!

This Watermelon Slushie Toothpaste ($9.95) tastes like a delicious, refreshing summer treat.  It's made with a gentle fluoride formula to prevent cavities and help your kid's teeth grow healthy and strong.  In addition to the awesome flavor and clean ingredients, this toothpaste is sugar free, paraben free and sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) free.  So it has all of the good stuff and none of the bad.  Your kids will actually look forward to brushing their teeth!

After brushing with the delicious toothpaste, your child can follow up with this Bubblegum Burst Anticavity Fluoride Rinse Mouthwash ($9.95).  This mouth rinse will clean, and freshen your mouth without leaving that stinging sensation behind.  And best of all, it tastes like bubblegum!  Using a gentle fluoride formula combined with hydroxyapatite and Frost's special herbal blend, this mouthwash will keep cavities and plaque at bay.  It's perfect to use after brushing and throughout the day in between brushing.

Use Frost's natural smile care line to encourage good oral hygiene habits to keep your children's teeth healthy and strong.

Breathe Fresh And Cleaner Air

I received this product from GermGuardian for review.  If you're looking for ideas for Father's Day gifts, then consider giving Dad the gift of fresh, clean air to breathe.  

The GermGuardian AC4825 ($99.99) is a true HEPA air filter that reduces up to 99.97% of harmful germs, dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores and other allergens as small as .3 microns from the air in your home.  Its quiet operation won't disturb you at all.  In fact, you can even use the lowest setting as gentle white noise at night for a quiet, restful sleep.

The UV-C light helps kill airborne viruses such as influenza, staph, rhinovirus and works with Titanium Dioxide to reduce volatile organic compounds.  The pre-filter traps dust, pet hair and other allergens while extending the life of the HEPA filter.  And the activated charcoal filter helps to reduce unwanted odors from pets, smoke, cooking fumes and more.  As a result, the air in your home is fresher, cleaner and far more healthy to breathe.

You can easily customize your air purifier with the 3 speed settings.  It has an ultra quiet mode on the lowest speed setting, and an optional UV-C light on an easy to use top panel.  You can use this air purifier in any room of your house, it's made for medium to large rooms up to 153 sq. feet.  

What better gift could you give Dad than something that will help him be healthier and happier?  He'll love this air purifier! 

Books For Dad

I received these books from Rocky Nook for review.  If you're looking for a nice Father's Day gift for your Dad, these books are perfect for the Dad who loves to draw or travel and take pictures.

The Art & Science of Drawing by Brent Eviston ($29.95):  Drawing is not a talent, it’s a skill anyone can learn.  This is the philosophy of drawing instructor Brent Eviston based on his more than twenty years of teaching.  He has tested numerous types of drawing instruction from centuries old classical techniques to contemporary practices and designed an approach that combines tried and true techniques with innovative methods of his own.  Now, he shares his secrets with this book that provides the most accessible, streamlined and effective methods for learning to draw.  Taking the reader through the entire process, beginning with the most basic skills to more advanced such as volumetric drawing, shading and figure sketching, this book contains numerous projects and guidance on what and how to practice.  It also features instructional images and diagrams, as well as finished drawings.  With this book and a dedication to practice, anyone can learn to draw!

The Travel Photography Book by Scott Kelby ($29.95):  Learn how to take professional quality photographs when you travel, using the same tricks that today’s top photographers use!  If you’ve ever dreamed of making such incredible travel photos that when your friends and family see them they say, “Wait a minute, this is your photo!? You took this?” then you’re holding the right book.  Scott Kelby, award winning travel photographer and author of the best selling digital photography book in history, shares all his secrets and time tested techniques as he discusses everything from his go to essential travel gear, to camera settings, to how to research before your trip, to the travel photography techniques that will help you capture truly captivating images on your trip.

Among many other topics, you’ll learn:

• What makes a great travel photo (including what to shoot and what to skip).

• Which lenses and accessories will get you the best results (including when to use them and why).

• How to post process your images in Lightroom or Photoshop to get incredible results.

• Tips for getting great portraits of the locals and even how to get them to pose for your shots.

• When it makes more sense to use your cell phone’s camera instead.

• Travel photo recipes that show you the ingredients for creating specific types of travel shots.

• How to compose your travel images, how to keep your gear safe when traveling and a ton of killer tips to help you create better travel images and make your entire trip that much more fun.

It’s all here.  Scott doesn’t hold anything back in this groundbreaking book that will help you take the type of travel images you’ve always dreamed of.  There’s never been a travel photography book like it!

Aromatherapy On The Go

I received this product from Organic Aromas for review.  They offer a wide variety of diffusers and essential oils and it's a great place to get your Father's Day present for your Dad!

The Mobile-Mini 2.0 Nebulizing Diffuser ($98) is a great way to get your aromatherapy when you're on the go.  It's completely wireless, rechargeable and heavy duty.  It measures 2.67" wide at the base and 6.29" tall.  And weighing about 1 pound, it's super easy to take along with you no matter where you go.

The Mobile-Mini has an anodized aluminum casing, powerful miniature air pump and exclusive custom made glass reservoir that enhances performance and reduces waste.  You can choose either Iron-man Red or Charcoal Grey to coordinate with your decor.  And the freedom from electrical cords coupled with the powerful nebulizing technology of Organic Aromas, means you'll never have to be without your favorite aromas again.  Whether you're on a road trip, in a hotel room, on a cruise ship or just in the office, you can instantly and easily have your aromatherapy.

The specialty glass reservoir comes with a custom, tight fitting glass cap.  And it fully charges via a micro USB cable in approximately 5.5 hours.  Once charged, you can use it for at least 16 to 20 hours before you need to recharge it again.

It comes well packaged and even includes some essential oils to get you started.  And Organic Aromas has several different essential oils to choose from when you're ready to order more.  

Whether you're looking for an awesome Father's Day gift, or simply in the market for a diffuser for yourself, check out Organic Aromas.

For The Well Groomed Dad

I received these products from Elina Organics for review.  They have been offering award winning, organic, handmade, fresh and transdermal holistic clinical skincare and makeup formulations since 1997.  

Browse their site to see their full selection of products for both women and men.  They have a wonderful small batch, vegan, plant based and cruelty free men's line that is perfect for Father's Day!

Activated Charcoal Face Wash ($30):  Enriched with a detoxifying blend of activated charcoal and organical botanicals, this invigorating face wash delivers a deep clean without leaving your skin feeling overly dry.  The activated charcoal draws out the impurities in your skin and leaves it feeling clean and fresh.  This face wash also includes willow bark extract (a natural source of salicylic acid - it reduces inflammation, provides gentle exfoliation, speeds healing process and reduces acne and excess oil with its hormone balancing botanical, antibacterial properties), spirulina (a natural source of amino acids and proteins that help to build collagen, detoxifies and calms, oxygenates skin and contains essential vitamins and minerals that nourish your skin) and aspen bark extract (another natural source of salicylic acid - it has strong antimicrobial and antifungal properties, helps to eliminate acne and other inflammatory skin conditions, improves texture and brightens skin).

Shielding Shave Butter ($25):  This shave butter helps to protect, hydrate, and smooth your skin.  This is a creamy formula that will shield you from razor burns and cuts while infusing your face with phytonutrients, leaving it feeling silky, smooth, and renewed.  Its ingredients include cocoa butter (high in fatty acids which help retain moisture, nourish and improve skin elasticity), shea butter (softens skin using fatty acids and vitamins, helps to preserve moisture in your skin, accelerates healing, provides antioxidants, anti-inflammatory benefits and has antibacterial/antifungal properties), papaya fruit (contains enzymes that dissolve dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores, it's a source of beta carotene which is a precursor to vitamin A (retinol) and it infuses your skin with nutrients) and castor oil (moisturizes and nourishes skin while providing a protective barrier emollient).

Probiotic Aftershave ($36):  This soothing, lightweight aftershave lotion is infused with a probiotic blend of ammonia oxidizing bacteria to help calm and protect your skin.  It contains an organic blend of healing herbal extracts which will leave your face feeling nourished and hydrated everyday.  Beneficial ingredients include a probiotic blend (produces lactic acid, acetic acid, and malic acid which helps to hydrate and brighten skin, calm redness and irritation and improve hydration), water soluble sulfur (MSM) (increases collagen production, minimizes fine lines and wrinkles, reduces inflammation and repairs damaged tissue), sage (reduces inflammation, has antibacterial properties, fights aging and provides antioxidants) and turmeric (has anti-inflammatory properties, boosts healing process, gives you a glowing complexion and soothes skin).

Not only will Dad love these products, they will quickly become an important part of his daily routine.

Makeup For Your Lips, Cheeks and Eyes, All In One Stick

I received these products from LaJeanell for review.  This indie brand and woman owned business offers all natural vegan skin care and makeup products that work great for any skin type.  

La Jeanell offers products like Sunscreen Lotion, Advanced Golden Glow Serum, Moonlight Lume Pod and these cool all in one sticks that look like lipstick, but are made to use on your cheeks and as eyeshadow as well!  And you can buy their products in bundles sets that includes a nice makeup bag!

This Lip, Cheek and Eye Shadow ($28 each) comes in five gorgeous and versatile shades (Spring Blossom, Autumn Leaves, Shirley, Winter Holly Berries and Summer Breeze).  These five shades were designed to allow you to create many more colors.  You can easily blend the colors together to create new a brilliant new looks and colors that POP.  When applied individually, you get subtle colors.  Or you can mix the shades to create layers for incredibly lucious and kissable lips.  You'll be able to wear a new shade for every season, every mood or every outfit without having to spend a fortune on dozens of different colors.

You can be fearless with rich, clean and creamy colors, creating glamorous and vibrant nourishing shades.  These sticks make it easy to volumize, hydrate and moisturize your lips to keep them soft, plump and gorgeous.  and you can coordinate your eyes and cheeks by using the same sticks to apply color in those areas!

LaJeanell’s founder, Shirley Powell, brings more than 40 years of business experience.  She represented two high end luxury cosmetics companies.  As an entrepreneur and model, she found herself searching for quality makeup that was health conscious.  As a result, she found the need to create a line that provided a solution to the problem.  Shirley founded LaJeanell to provide quality skincare solutions.  It resulted in a great selection of natural and organic makeup.  Her vision was to include anti-aging components to the product line.  Thus, giving users a younger look without going under the scalpel.

Premium Steaks For Dad

I received these products from Chicago Steak Company for review.  Since 1864, they have been offering the World's Finest Beef and delivering it directly to your door.  The steaks from Chicago Steak Company are all sourced exclusively from Mid-West raised heritage cattle.  This selective sourcing gives their steaks the prized tenderness, marbling and flavor that can only come from superior growing conditions and bloodlines.  The steaks are then aged for four to six weeks to develop the complexity of flavor demanded by 5-star restaurants, steakhouses and discerning steak lovers.  These steaks are either wet aged or dry aged using aging techniques that go back generations.  They have the largest Dry Aging Facility in the Mid-West, and have created a unique flavor profile that is second to none.  In fact, they are the leader in Dry Aging Beef nationwide.  All steaks are trimmed by butchers the old fashioned way, and hand carved with expert precision to remove any extra tissue and fat.  As a result, you get an exceptionally tender and flavorful steak.

Whether you are looking for a special gift for Dad, or just some delicious meat to cook on the grill this summer, the Premium Angus Beef Chicago's Best Seller ($229.95) is a delicious choice.  This assortment includes:

• 2 (6oz) Premium Angus Complete Trim Filet Mignons
• 2 (10oz) Premium Angus Boneless Strips
• 2 (8oz) Premium Angus Top Sirloins
• 2 (8oz) Premium Angus Ribeyes

Every cut of steak in this assortment is certified USDA Prime or upper-1/3 USDA Choice.  Each steak is hand selected and hand carved to ensure you get the best cut possible, then they are individually wrapped and vacuum sealed.  This assortment package gives you a sampling of the best cuts of steak and it makes the perfect gift for any steak enthusiast.

Whether you prefer tender, lean or well marbled steaks, this is an excellent choice that includes them all.  You can cut through the Filet with a fork and, when you take a bite, you'll see just how incredibly tender it is.  If you prefer a lean steak with plenty of flavor, you'll love the Top Sirloins and Boneless Strips!  And the Ribeye has the most fat and marbling, but it only enhances the flavor and delivers a healthy dose of deliciousness.  Everyone has their own personal preferences, but this assortment will let you try them all.

Browse the Chicago Steak Company website to see their full selection as you plan for your next big BBQ or intimate dinner.  

 

Boost Your Body's Natural Response To Stress

I received these products from Social CBD for review.  They've developed a line of CBD solutions that can help you respond better to stress so you can stay connected to what matters most.  I was lucky enough to get try some of their delicious CBD gummies.  These gummies are all plant based, vegan friendly, and cruelty, gluten and dairy free.

 

Original CBD Gummies - Red Raspberry - 10 count ($9.99):  If you're looking for an easy way to add CBD into your daily wellness routine, then check out these Red Raspberry CBD Gummies.

Original CBD Gummies - Peach Mango - 10 count ($9.99):  Like the Red Raspberry gummies, these Peach Mango gummies are a great way to add CBD in your daily routine.  

Each serving of Red Raspberry or Peach Mango gummies delivers 25MG of Broad Spectrum CBD formulated with fruit juice and natural fruit flavors.  CBD works with your body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS), which controls mood, stress response and other important functions to give you a well balanced feeling throughout your day.

Chill CBD Gummies - Lemon Berry - 10 count ($9.99):  If you could use some extra support for life's daily stressors, then try Social's Chill CBD Gummies.  They can help you manage stress with a combination of four effective ingredients that help you relax while staying focused.  These gummies combine potent broad spectrum CBD, GABA, L-Theanine, and Lemon Balm to create an effective formula that, when added to your wellness routine, will help you find your balance amongst the chaos.

Sleep CBD Gummies - Blackberry Mint - 10 count ($9.99):   If you struggle to get a good night's sleep, these gummies can help.  They support a better night’s rest using ingredients that are proven to promote more optimal sleep cycles.  Formulated with our powerful broad spectrum CBD, valerian root extract and lemon balm, these gummies, along with a consistent bedtime routine, will help you get the good night's sleep that you've been longing for. 

Dad Will Love This Leather Wallet

I received this wallet from Trendhim for review.  If you're looking for a classic gift to give your Dad this Father's Day, then look no further than the Trendhim's website!  They've been offering fashionable, affordable and quality men's accessories that allow you to express your own personal style since 2007.  With watches, jewelry, leather bags, sunglasses, beard cream, shaving sets, toiletry bags and much more, you're sure to find the perfect gift.  They are based out of Denmark and have Scandinavian roots (which is reflected in most of their products) but they ship products all over the world.

I received this Montreal Original Black RFID Leather Wallet ($79) and it is amazing!  If you tend to carry lots of cards, this is the perfect wallet for you.  There are 10 card slots and each slot will hold 2 cards.  It has an ID window, a divided section for bills and a coin pocket with a snap closure to securely hold your coins.  And surprisingly, it isn't bulky at all.  Its slim design ensures that it won't cause your pockets to bulge when you carry it.

Your credit cards, driver's license and other cards that use RFID chips are protected against hacking by a special lining.  And it's made of minimally treated and highest grade buffalo hide that retains the natural kinks and defects of the leather to give off a slightly vintage and stylish look. 

This wallet measures 5" x 4" and has room for all of your cards, coins and bills while maintaining its slim profile.  The wallet even arrived in elegant looking box, making it gift ready immediately.  Trendhim is a wonderful company that cares about their customers.  Their customer service is top notch.  Check out their website today!