Causes of Molds and Tips to Effectively Remove Them

Mold is a type of fungi that grows in damp places. Unfortunately, mold is an issue in most homes and never seems like it will stop. Apart from that, it can also cause serious health issues when ingested. Many people who have molds in their homes are ignorant about its causes and how to get rid of them. If you are also ignorant about molds, read this article to learn how to get rid of mould in the bathroom in no time.

 

Causes Of Mold

Discussed below are some of the causes of mold.

1. Humidity

Molds love moisture, so this makes it easy for them to thrive in areas where the humidity is high. This is the major reason why molds grow a lot in places like bathrooms which are constantly wet. 

2. Condensation

Concrete floors and metal pipes are prone to condensation. Condensation droplets form on these surfaces during cold and chilly mornings. These droplets stick to the surfaces and make them damp and moist. The best place where mold strives is a damp surface. If these water droplets are left unnoticed, molds begin to grow there. In any home, metal pipes are the areas which molds start to grow from.

3. Little Ventilation

Wooden wall
Wooden wall is covered with the mold

Little or no ventilation can also cause molds in houses. Moist air gathers in most houses and they need a way out. Ventilation areas are sources from which this moist air can escape out of the home. If a home has poor ventilation, moist air cannot escape and they end up collecting in certain areas. This air collects in areas such as walls and ceilings in a home. Molds will grow in such areas because the moist air will make the place damp.

4. Little Sunlight

Molds thrive in areas that are warm and dark because of their love for moist air. These areas are usually damp and full of moist air. The major cause of dampness in a place is the lack of sunlight. Sunlight heats places and evaporates moist air in places. Dark places, like basements, which receive little sunlight are thriving zones for molds. The heat from sunlight also helps to slow down the spores of molds from growing and multiplying.

5. Leaky Pipes

Leaky pipes are one of the most common causes of molds. Water droplets drip from leaky pipes and collect in certain areas. Such areas get constantly wet making them damp and humid. This is the perfect condition a mold needs to grow and release its spores. A leaky pipe also makes it easy for condensation droplets to form and collect. Areas such as bathrooms are filled with many pipes, making them the perfect area for molds.

6. Flooding

Flooding can occur when drainages and channels for water flow are blocked. This can lead to the overflowing of water from its channels or drainages into places. The waters flood into houses and may get collected in cracks or holes in homes. These cracks and holes become damp and humid, thereby making molds grow in them. Water, from broken rain gutters, may also fall on walls and ceilings making them damp and humid.

 

Tips To Effectively Remove Moulds

If your home is full of molds, there are ways in which you can effectively remove them.

1. Bleach

This is a very effective way to remove molds from places. Mix a little amount of bleach with a large amount of water. Spray the bleach on the areas with molds. Use a brush to scrub the molds with bleach. Afterward, you should rinse the area with a little amount of water. Finally, you should use a dry cloth to dry the entire area.

2. Vinegar

If you don’t have bleach, this is another good way to get rid of molds. Carefully, get an undiluted white vinegar and pour it into a spray bottle. Spray the area where the molds are and leave for an hour or so. A wet white cloth should be used to gently wipe the area. Get a dry cloth and wipe it up afterward. 

3. Ammonia

Ammonia is another great way to kill molds. Just mix equal volumes of ammonia and water in a spray bottle. Spray the moldy areas with the solution and leave for a few hours. Rinse and wipe the surface afterward. It is important to know that it is dangerous to mix ammonia with another type of cleaner. What’s more, this can cause serious health issues.

 

Conclusion

Molds are pests every homeowner hates to get because they can cause health issues such as allergies. Without knowing about molds and their causes, you can do nothing to prevent them from growing. Not to mention, molds can be tricky to deal with, but with the aid of this article, you now know all about them.

How to Calculate the Compensation Value for a NEC Lawsuit

The growing number of NEC cases across the country is a cause of concern for parents of premature babies. Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a severe gastrointestinal infection that can lead to dire medical issues or even death in young babies. As a parent, you can file a claim against the formula manufacturer for harm to your baby. It indicates their negligence for failing to warn the consumers about the inherent risks of NEC associated with feeding their infant with cow milk-based baby formula. Thankfully, you can receive handsome financial compensation by presenting your claim in the right manner. But everything boils down to finding the right lawyer and calculating the optimal value of compensation for your NEC lawsuit. Here are some tips you can follow to get the amount you deserve for your little one’s suffering.

Holding the manufacturer responsible

Baby formula manufacturers conduct intensive research and studies before launching their products on the market. Research is a part of the legal obligation of brands as a duty of care toward consumers. It means they are fully aware of the fact that the product leads to a risk of NEC in premature babies. But not providing proper warning on the product labels puts them on the wrong side of the law. They probably neglect it to ensure that the sales do not get affected or do it due to sheer carelessness. Whatever the reason, consumers can suffer due to the intentional or unintentional negligence of the manufacturers. Their failure to warn about NEC risks gives consumers a valid reason to hold them responsible for the ill-health or death of their babies. They can rightfully bring a lawsuit against the company and claim compensation for the expenses and losses.

Calculating the average settlement for NEC lawsuits

Since leading brands and companies are involved in NEC cases, the average settlement can run in millions. However, the amount may differ from case to case depending on several factors. You must consult specialist lawyers for baby formula lawsuits to calculate the rightful compensation value for your child. Typically, it depends on the individual damages your baby suffers from with the formulas. For example, the length of time a premature baby experiences pain or survives after contracting NEC can contribute to the damage award. Several times, the amount depends on the discretion of the jury issuing the verdict. The damages are more in cases involving permanent long-term damages or death due to evident reasons.

Considering severe cases of NEC

Mother
Mother is holding newborn while sleeping on her chest

If your child sustains severe damage due to NEC, you can expect a larger payout as compensation for the baby formula lawsuit. The treatment is longer and more expensive in such cases, so the medical bills are bigger. Moreover, the risk of long-term complications is greater. The child has to bear more pain and suffering due to the severity of the condition. Additionally, the chances of death are greater in these cases. Here are the key components of potential damages in product liability lawsuits like baby formula cases-

  •   Cost of past and future medical treatment
  •   Past and future pain and suffering
  •   Future out of pocket expenses
  •   Compensation for future physical disabilities
  •   Loss of consortium for patents while raising a baby with long-term health complications
  •    The emotional trauma of the family
  •   Missed time from work while taking care of the sick baby

Parents can claim compensation for wrongful death if their baby dies due to severe NEC complications. These cases have additional factors that increase the claim value. Obviously, you can expect bigger payouts for losing your baby. The compensation value will also include damages for trauma and grief over losing a child, the amount the child could have earned in the future, and payment for the loss of the closeness they would have developed with the baby.

Baby formula claims are often high-value ones because they involve renowned brands and corporations. But there is always a risk of losing your claim because these companies often have seasoned legal teams to defend them from consumer lawsuits. However, giving up on the compensation you deserve for your sick or dead baby is the last thing you should do. You must try your best to claim damages for your expenses, pain and suffering, and losses due to the disability or death of your little one. The best way to do it is by collaborating with a legal expert specializing in such cases. Since they have experience in dealing with corporations, they can do their best to prove the claim and get the compensation and justice your baby deserves. 

8 Fun Facts for Kids: Share These to Amaze and Get Your Kids Talking

Adults and kids alike love fun facts. The world is full of weird and wonderful phenomena and as a parent, it’s your job to teach your children all about it. It’s a big bonus that sharing these fun facts will help you to relate to your kids as you discover the world together. 

Ready to dive in? Check out these 8 fun facts for kids that will get the giggles going and the conversations rolling. 

 

1. Humans Fart Quite Fast

Wondering how to be the cool parent? Talk about farts — they always get kids giggling. And now, you can throw a bit of knowledge in with the laughter. Humans fart 14 times every day on average, and these gusts of smelly air come cruising out of the body at 7 mph. Your kids will love this fact.

 

2. Snails Love Sleep 

Animal facts for kids are usually about tigers and lions, but this fun snail fact takes the cake. If your kids love to take naps then they’ll enjoy knowing that snails are the ultimate nappers. In fact, some snails nap for up to three years!

 

3. Use Crickets to Tell the Temperature 

Everyone is accustomed to the sounds of crickets chirping in the night. But did you know that you can use these sounds to estimate the temperature? Simply count how many times a cricket chirps in a second and you’ve got it. 

 

4. It’s Not Only Fingerprints That are Unique 

Perhaps your children already know that we all have unique fingerprints. But did they know that our tongue prints are unique too? Imagine searching a crime scene for tongue prints — that’ll get the kids laughing. 

 

5. A Tree Called the ‘Idiot Fruit Tree’ Exists

Put a creative spin on the classic sibling rivalry insults with this fun fact. The Idiot Fruit Tree is a real tree that grows in the Daintree Forest in Australia. This is a loose translation of its scientific name. It also goes by the name Green Dinosaur, which is pretty cool too. 

 

6. New Zealand Has the Town With the Longest Name 

Flag
The New Zealand flag is represented

How about a fun fact and a tongue twister all rolled up in one? New Zealand’s town ‘Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipuka‘ is the longest name of a town in the world! It has 85 characters and will likely take you and your children the whole day to figure out how to pronounce it. 

 

7. The Human Diet Includes Some Insects 

This is definitely one of those kids’ facts that will make the little ones squeal in disgust. On average, humans eat up to 70 different insects and 10 spiders while sleeping. These little critters crawl in while we’re in a deep slumber and end up as a late-night snack. 

 

8. Orbeez Weren’t Always Toys

What are Orbeez? If you don’t know, your kids will tell you! These fun toys were invented to help retain water in the soil so that plants could grow better. Now they’re a much-loved instrument of fun for kids everywhere. 

 

Share These Fun Facts for Kids

Which of these fun facts for kids will your children love most? Will they cackle at the fart fact or spend the day trying to wrap their tongue around the longest town name in the world? Only one way to find out! 

If you enjoyed this post then you’ll love the rest of our content, tailored to parents just like you! Keep exploring for more. 

 

5 Essential Remote Work Tips for Working Moms

Working full-time when you’re a mom can be quite challenging. Working from home may come with some benefits for you, such as a flexible schedule, but it’s still certainly not an easy feat. In this article, you’ll be able to read about five tips for remote working moms that may help you juggle your work and parenting responsibilities more easily.

 

Create a routine for you and your kid(s)

Setting up a routine and sticking to it as much as you can is the key to having a productive day at work when working from home on a flexible schedule. Regardless of whether you have one or more than one child, your routine has to revolve around them. Noting down daily tasks, including both work and other obligations, and setting a time limit will help you stay organized. That includes setting aside time for cooking, helping the children with homework, and family time. Explain to your kids when it’s time for you to work, and if your children are old enough or have someone else supervising them, you may even create a designated home office. In order to help you stay focused while working, so as to not waste valuable time, you can track the time using a time tracking app, such as Clockify. 

 

Arrange tasks according to priority

Prioritizing tasks is extremely helpful when managing time as a remote working mom. Your schedule should be based on your list of priorities. You should do the tasks that are at the top of your list first, if possible when you start working in the morning. If your children go to daycare or school, use that time for tasks with tight deadlines. That way, you can ensure that you don’t miss any deadlines if something unexpected happens.

 

Make sure you deal with tax properly 

When working from home, especially if you’re working for a foreign company, you need to make sure that you handle tax properly so that you don’t get into trouble because of it. As a working mom with tons of obligations, you may forget about this obligation. Depending on where you’re located and what firm you’re working for, the tax may be your or your employee’s responsibility. It’s up to you to ask around and do the necessary research. You may be eligible for tax treaty benefits if you’re a non-US citizen who is working for a US company. In order to claim your benefits, you will need to fill out one of the five W-8 forms. For instance, the most commonly used W-8 form is the W8-BEN form, or the Certificate of Foreign Status of Beneficial Owner for United States Tax Withholding and Reporting. The form may be filled out by you or the company, and it is used to sign up for tax withholding reduction or exemption.

 

Have a plan B for instances when your child is disrupting your work

Sometimes, especially if you have a toddler, your child may be cranky or bored, making it difficult for you to focus on your work. What you can do is invite your child to “work” with you. You may tell them that you need help with your work and give them assignments, such as to draw certain shapes. If that doesn’t work, you may suggest other calm activities like puzzles or LEGOs. Being prepared ahead of time for such situations will allow you to handle them better. You may even promise a new toy if they behave. Then, they’d have something new to entertain them the next day while you’re working. 

 

Dress up for work

Entrepreneur
A nicely dressed young, entrepreneur mom is holding a notebook and smartphone in her hands

This may sound counterintuitive, but dressing up for work even though you’re not leaving the house is a great way to ensure you’re productive, and to keep your mental health in check. As a mom that works from home, it’s easy to neglect your own needs and stop taking care of yourself properly. That’s why you shouldn’t grab your computer and start working in your PJs as soon as you wake up. Dedicating at least fifteen minutes to getting ready for work can do wonders for your mental wellbeing. It would also help you get in work mode, allowing you to work more efficiently.  

 

Final thoughts

All in all, working from home as a mom can be a handful. However, it is certainly manageable if you try harder to stay organized, while also dedicating some time to yourself, as well as your family. Following these tips will help you be more productive and manage your time successfully. 

 

How to Broach the Topic of a Cancer Diagnosis With Your Child

Children perceive the world very differently from us. They have over-active imaginations that help them form their own version of how life works, at least until they grow old enough to understand more complex concepts. This can make it difficult to explain something serious, like a cancer diagnosis.

Cancer is a disease that can be hard to deal with. There are treatments out there that make survival possible, but there is no denying that overcoming cancer requires a fight. This fight affects everyone around you, including your family. You will have to explain what is going on to your children; however, this can feel like another mountain that you have to climb. This article will go through the steps you need to take when it comes to broaching the topic of a cancer diagnosis with a child.

 

Talk Together

Your partner is the first person you will tell about your diagnosis. They will have to deal with it in their own way; however, they are going to be your rock during the upcoming battle. Therefore, it is important to keep them involved with every step to best inform them on how to deal with your diagnosis.

A child views their parents as a team. You may disagree with your partner on things as you go through life, but kids realize that you are always on the same page regarding the big issues. That is why they will feel more at ease if you begin talking to them about cancer as a team. What’s more, this initial conversation may bring up some difficult questions that require you to think on your feet. Having an ally can provide your child with the answers to a question that you may struggle with and vice versa.

 

Stress How It Is not Their Fault

Younger children internalize the events around them and still believe that they are the main characters during their life journey. This belief system does not disappear until they reach their teenage years when they start to realize that the universe is random, and they gain a sense of empathy. Unfortunately, this attitude means that they can often believe that anything bad that happens within the home directly results from something they have done.

Therefore, the main thing that you should bring up in your initial discussion is how this happened. You do not need to go into the exact scientific detail, just cover the basics enough so that they understand that it was nothing they could have caused or prevented. Also, it is important to finish this part of the conversation by stating aloud that the cancer is not their fault.

 

Explain That It Isn’t Contagious

Cancer is scary no matter how much you understand it. Illness is a concept that children know and have come into contact with before, though very different. You will have stressed the importance of staying healthy and the role of germs when it comes to getting sick, which is why your child may be frightened about catching cancer themselves.

The next step in your initial conversation should involve putting these concerns to rest. You will have given them a rudimentary explanation of how you became ill, so try to reiterate how this disease cannot be passed from person to person. Your child is likely to have more questions later on, which is why you should leave your first conversation here. Give them time to mull over what they have learned and remind them that you are always there to answer any further questions.

 

Explain Changes Before They Happen

A cancer diagnosis is going to change your life no matter how advanced the spread. You may have to stop doing weekly activities, make frequent trips to the doctor, take time off work, or undergo bed rest as you receive treatment. These changes are necessary; however, they will not go unnoticed by your child.

As you go through the treatment procedures, it is a good idea to explain what is going to happen and why. This will give your child the chance to prepare for the change and provide them with context. Again, children have a different understanding of the world to us, and routine is important to them. Try to make sure they can perceive these changes correctly.

 

Treatment

Cancer treatments will differ depending on your type and the severity. However, this treatment is necessary at any stage to cure you. The treatment for cancer takes time, which means that you will be dealing with the side effects for a few months.

A child may not understand medicine completely, but they are aware of its role. That is why you may find it beneficial to talk openly about your treatment. It will help you to understand it better and provide something for your child to perceive as a balance to all the negativity surrounding your illness.

In fact, you can use resources from Ezra to learn all about treatments and diagnosis tools to lessen your own fear about the process. This means less fear for your child to pick up on. You can normalize terms like chemotherapy or spine MRI to build up a positive association between these treatments and your health.

 

Remind Them That They Are Not Alone

Mother
Mother and daughter are hugging

The scariest part of cancer for a child is the fear that they will lose you. There is always going to be media surrounding this type of illness, a lot of which will understandably portray it in a negative light. What’s more, your family may have come into contact with someone else that has unfortunately lost their battle with cancer.

The best thing you can do for your child during this time is reiterate that they are loved and will never be left alone. It will also serve to ground you as you continue to move forward.

 

Conclusion

Discussing a cancer diagnosis with a child is a long and complex process that cannot be covered in one article. Hopefully, these tips have given you the tools to start the journey. Everyone will have a different experience, but it is most important to stay strong.

 

 

Winning Father’s Day Gifts

While your man is doing a deep dive into his March Madness brackets, you have plenty of free time to start searching for his perfect Father’s Day Gift!  I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but the days of gifting dad socks and a tie are long gone.  And to be honest, there is no excuse for giving a tired, old gift idea at this point in the game.  With so many fun and unique options on the Web today, it’s time for you to win your Father’s Day gift!

Here are some great ideas that we’ve come across that will knock his socks off!  See what I did there?  When you see the look on his face as he opens the box…well, you’re welcome!

Customizable gift set

Gift sets are all the rage these days, as they can be customized for that special man in your life.  Whether your guy is a hunter, drinker, smoker, or into dress accessories, sites like Groovy Guy Gifts have customizable gift sets for all.  And what’s cooler than unwrapping and seeing a classy gift box with your name on it that houses a great surprise?

Cigar set
Cigar cutter set

Everyone knows a cigar guy!  You know, the man in your life that would give it all up for some me-time on the porch, listening to the land while puffing away in tranquility.  That guy probably has a wide variety of cigars to smoke, but does he have the fun accessories and cigar sets to go along with them?  Between cigar cutters, torch lighters, humidors, and cases, there is a wide variety of presents that a smoker would love!

Flask
Flask with personalized dad caricature on it

Dad will certainly get a kick out of this unique gift!  Imagine the look on his face when he takes a look at this humorous item.  There are sites all over the internet that will turn your favorite photo into an amazing caricature of dad.  This is far beyond socks and a tie and will be sure to bring a laugh each time he takes a swig out of this flask.

Whiskey gift
Whiskey gift set

There are so many exciting whiskey gifts out there that dad would love.  From all different types of decanters to stylish whiskey glasses, there’s something for everyone.  What better present for a guy with a man cave than a classy whiskey set?  If he enjoys a nightcap, then he’ll really enjoy these types of items for Father’s Day.

Chuggers
Louisville chugger

Is your dad a sports guy?  One of the most unique gifts out there is the Louisville Chugger!  An ideal combination of two great American pastimes, baseball, and beverages, this mug is a top-notch present.  The feel of the classic wood in dad’s hand will remind him of his days on the ball fields.  As nostalgia kicks in, so will his urge to take a sip and enjoy.  Whether it’s the Louisville Chugger or another personalized sports gift, there are so many ideas out there to choose from.

Drinkware
Wall decor drinkware

 

Add to that Man Cave!  If you’re ever stuck for a gift idea for dad or any man in your life, just think of ways to enhance his favorite chill spot in the house.  Maybe it’s his basement-dwelling or his home office, but every guy has his personal nook.  From wall decor to drinkware, there are a wide variety of unique gifts out there to bring his space to the next level.

Axes
Personalized axes

Maybe you and dad don’t always see eye to eye, so this is the time to bury that hatchet!  Parents and children are often in a tricky spot in life and look for ways to mend fences.  A humorous gift like a personalized ax is the perfect way to start those conversations.  Don’t let another year go to waste and find a way to get closer to dad.  You’ll both be glad you did!

Cutting board
Personalized cutting board

The Chef!  We all need one in the family.  Guys love to grill and once a perfect slab of beef is prepared by dad, he’ll be looking for somewhere to carve it up.  Personalized cutting boards are just what the cook ordered this Father’s Day.  Dad will love this thoughtful gift and use it on many occasions.  Functional gifts make the best gifts!

Cooler bag
A beer was placed next to the cooler bag

Can you grab me a beer?  You’ve never heard dad ask that before, right?  Well, of course, you have!  When it comes to beer gifts the list is literally endless.  From a cooler bag to a personalized mug, from a beer sign to a unique bottle opener, you can find just about anything.  Beer guys are like any enthusiasts, they have a lot of what they love, but are still on the hunt for the latest and greatest.  Get your beer-loving man something to add to his collection this Father’s Day.

Wall sign
A personalized sign is displayed on the wall

Guys love to lay claim to what is theirs.  From the early explorers to the modern-day man, they all look to get their name out there.  What better way to stake your claim and show off to friends than these personalized signs?  Whether it’s a sign by the grill, hanging in a man cave, or representing a home gym, these metal signs cannot be ignored.

Golf gift
Personalized golf gift

And finally, raise your hand if your dad is obsessed with golf!  What is it with a guy when he turns 40, as he transforms into a Wanna-Be Tiger Woods?  You really can’t go wrong with a personalized golf gift for dad.  Golf accessories range far and wide and most dads would be more than happy to be gifted a guy he can show off on the links.

Listen, chances are your dad loves you regardless, and receiving anything from his children will make him smile ear to ear.  You may be daddy’s little girl so you can’t lose, right?  With that being said, this year instead of sleepwalking through your Father’s Day gift-giving, why don’t you win the day.  Get him a gift that will wow and make the day that much more special and memorable.  You have it in you.  I know you do.  Now get shopping!

 

Interest Rate vs. APR Mortgage: What Are the Differences?

As of March 2022, the average interest rate on a 30-year mortgage was 4.18%. But, of course, the interest rate you get with a mortgage depends on multiple factors, including your credit score and down payment amount. 

When you start thinking about getting a loan, you might have a few questions. For example, have you ever wondered about the difference between the interest rate vs. APR mortgage rate? 

You’ll hear about both terms when you start working on a mortgage loan, but it’s crucial to know the difference. This guide explains what both terms mean and the differences between them.

 

The Basics of the Interest Rate on a Mortgage

So, what is the interest rate on a mortgage? That’s often the first question borrowers ask when applying for one. They want to know the rate as it affects their payment amount and total loan amount. 

The interest rate on a mortgage is the stated rate the lender tells you when approving your loan. For example, they might tell you that your loan has a 4% interest rate. 

This rate affects the interest charges you pay each year. For example, if you get a 5% rate on a $200,000 loan, you’ll pay $10,000 in interest charges for the year.

Now, the interest amount you pay actually varies each year, as lenders base it on your principal loan balance. They also may calculate it monthly instead of annually.

Therefore, each month your lender multiples your monthly interest rate times your principal balance to determine the interest charges for that month. 

If you read through an interest rate mortgage guide, you’ll also learn that lenders provide a statement when you initially get the loan. They call this an amortization schedule.

This schedule shows how much interest you’ll pay for the entire loan if you make every payment on its due date. Of course, if you make your payments early or pay extra, it changes this chart. 

If you look at an amortization schedule, you’ll notice that you pay the most interest at first. After that, your interest gradually goes down each month because your principal balance decreases. 

 

How APR Mortgage Rates Work

Now that you understand the interest rate and how it works, you can move on to the APR mortgage rate. What is an APR mortgage rate, you might wonder? Is this different from the interest rate?

The APR rate is different from your loan’s interest rate, and there is one main distinction. The interest rate doesn’t include any fees, charges, or additional expenses, while the APR rate does. 

Your mortgage APR reveals a more accurate cost you pay for the loan, as it includes other expenses. For example, if you pay points on your loan, the APR includes these costs. 

The APR also includes broker fees, loan fees, and any other mortgage costs. So when you add those up and add in the interest charges, you learn your APR.

Therefore, your APR reveals the true cost of the loan. It’s a more comprehensive calculation than the interest rate.

As a result, you should compare the APR on loans when choosing one, as this is a better reflection of the costs you’ll pay. 

 

Factors That Affect the Rate You Pay

You might be wondering why this matters. The truth is it matters for several reasons. The primary reason to learn this is to compare loan options. 

You can compare numerous loan types, including 0 deposit home loans, to find the one that offers the best rate and terms for your situation. You can also ask about other loan types as you search for one.

Additionally, you might want to learn about the factors that affect the interest rate and APR you pay for the loan you acquire. Multiple factors affect these things, including the following:

 

Credit Score

Lenders run credit checks before issuing loans. They also run them before approving loans. 

The point is for the lender to see a person’s creditworthiness. An excellent credit score reveals a person who pays their bills in a timely manner. People with high scores work hard to get these scores and keep them. 

Your credit score affects the rate you get, and it can also affect your eligibility to qualify for a loan. 

 

Down Payment

Most lenders also base the interest rates on a person’s down payment abilities. Therefore, you might qualify for a lower rate if you offer a larger amount down, as this reduces the lender’s risks. 

 

Mortgage Loan Fees

The lender’s fees for the loan also affect your rate, but these fees only affect the APR. They don’t change the stated interest rate. 

 

Terms 

Finally, the loan terms you choose also play a role in the rate you get. For example, you might get a lower rate if you choose a 15-year loan instead of a 30-year loan.

 

The Effects of Your Rate on Your Loan Payments

Finally, you may want to delve into the effects your rate has on your loan. Of course, the most significant impact of an interest rate is the interest costs for borrowing the money. 

A higher rate leads to a higher monthly payment. A higher rate also leads to paying more for the total cost of the loan. On the other hand, a lower rate leads to a lower payment and a lower total loan cost. 

The bottom line is that you might want to shop around for the best rate on your loan. When you find the best rate, you’ll save money. 

Money
A model of the house is placed on the table next to sets of coins

 

Understanding Interest Rate vs. APR Mortgage Rate Is Helpful When Getting a Loan 

Borrowing money comes at a cost, and the interest rate you get affects the amount you must repay. Understanding the interest rate vs. APR mortgage rate is helpful when choosing a loan to buy a home. 

In fact, learning about mortgage options and types is also crucial when searching for a loan to get. 

If you enjoyed this article, check out some of the others on our website. 

 

Are You in Need of a Roofer? You Can Discover the Greatest Here

Not all roofs are made equal, and the same is true for roofers. There is a lot at stake when it comes to finding a reputable local contractor to repair your roof. How can you know whether the contractor you’re considering is competent? In addition, how can you know whether your new roof was built properly or not?

Your choice of a roofing contractor has a significant influence on the overall success of your job. As a result, finding a top-notch roofing contractor is essential. There is a slew of roofers with websites that you can find merely by putting “roofing companies near me” into Google. Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace, and even your own mailbox are flooded with advertisements for roofers, making it even more difficult to choose the best one for your needs.

 

Make sure the roofing contractor has a permanent address

The best roofers are those that have a physical location and phone number in the area. It’s critical that you employ a local roofing contractor near you while searching for one to hire. You should only consider hiring a roofing contractor if they have a local office and a local phone number. That way, if there’s ever an issue with your roof, you’ll know just where to look.

Be wary that some out-of-state firms come in after a large storm, undercut local roofing company pricing, receive the money, and move on to the next storm-hit area. Local building rules and appropriate roof installation aren’t important to these enterprises. Quality local roofing companies near you are aware of the state’s installation standards and requirements, as well as how to complete all the necessary documentation to guarantee that your roof is done properly and in accordance with your state’s specifications.

 

Rely on recommendations from happy customers 

Word-of-mouth recommendations are much more valuable than anything you’ll find online. The best way to find a good roofing company near me is to ask your family, friends, and colleagues for referrals, and then do fast research. Check out their internet reviews, but also be sure to speak with them directly to see whether or not they’re a suitable match for your specific requirements.

 

Make sure the roofing companies have proper credentials

You need to make sure the roofing firm is licensed, bonded, and insured in your state specifically. Make sure they have all three and don’t be shy about requesting evidence. The licensing, bond, and insurance documents that a local roofing contractor has should be more than happy to show you. When it comes to you and your roof, what does this documentation imply to you?

A schematic representation of the license

Licensed, bonded, and insured

Think, “Is the roofing contractor near me qualified properly?” Only by signing up with your state’s licensing authority can a contractor get a license. What license they’ll require will depend on the expense of the work. The cost of installing a new roof necessitates the involvement of a licensed general contractor.

The consumer may rely on the bond firm if their contractor goes out of business or has problems with their work and refuses to correct them. Local contractors that have been bonded by a bonding organization may be certain that they are doing business in a legal and ethical manner. Because the bonding business is certain that the contractor will complete the task to their satisfaction, they are willing to put up the bond. A business car insurance coverage should be in place for all of the company’s vehicles, both owned and leased.

When Dads Care

Giving your child a shot at a great future is a lot easier than you think!

While moms are indispensable, a caring dad is the best thing that can happen to a child. Child experts have traditionally placed a major focus on a mother’s role in the lives of children and tended to ignore a father’s contribution. What a tragedy. Thankfully this is changing as research is making it increasingly clear that caring and involved fathers make a massive contribution to their children’s well-being, self-esteem, emotional intelligence and sexual behaviour, as well as giving them an excellent chance of flourishing in adulthood.

And the good news is that dads can do this in very simple ways as they actively love and care for their children, and by just being who they are – men!

The amazing thing is that it is the simplest of activities that fathers engage in with their children that have some of the most lasting effects on them. At a recent talk I gave to prospective parents, a young father-to-be came up to me afterwards and recounted how his father had never shown him any affection as a child and how he had “gone off the rails” as a teenager. He told me that his father had bought him only one ice cream during the course of his childhood and that this had greatly distressed him in later years.

Another of the simplest things which impact children is a father’s touch. Children have a need to be touched by a father. Early in life, children who experience love and care by being held and spoken to by their fathers develop a very specific and unique relationship with them. A dad’s touch, with his strong hands and somewhat hairy arms, is very different from a mother’s touch, and babies and children who experience this touch have a better chance of growing up to become well adjusted, emotionally healthy adults. A father who openly shows physical affection to his children helps contribute to their intellectual, physical and sexual development.

Boys who are touched by their fathers in a healthy and caring way show a lower tendency to become sexually promiscuous and rebellious in their teens and adulthood, and girls who experience warm, healthy physical affection from their dads are much less likely to become “boy crazy” to satisfy their need to be touched and for male approval. So, when the village idiot comes calling, your teenage daughter is far less likely to crave acceptance from him because she’s been getting enough approval from the most significant man in her life – her dad. Her relationship with her father, therefore, becomes a frame of reference for how she relates to other men all through her life.  

Skin hunger – the lack of physical contact – can have a dramatic effect on a child. In its most severe form, it can result in death. Decades ago, infants in orphanages in the Soviet Union were reported to have died simply as a result of not being touched. But the positive side of this coin is that infants and children who are touched appropriately and regularly flourish physically, emotionally and intellectually.

As well as the need to be touched by a father, children have a need to have a father play with them. Sometimes the last thing you want to do when you arrive home after work plays with kids, but taking five minutes to chase and tickle them is worth it in the long run. (Fast fact: Children up to seven years of age have two ambitions in life – to be chased and to be tickled by their father!)

Dads play very different games with their children from the games mothers play. And the games come to fathers quite naturally. No one tells them to play with their children in a certain way – they just do it without really thinking about it.

Family is spending time together on the bed

While mothers engage in gentle, nurturing activities, fathers play games with their children that involve getting them excited, very often including the elements of risk and fear. A typical father-child game would involve a father raising his hands like claws above his head, taking giant steps toward the child and growling, “Here comes the bear! It’s going to eat you up!” 

The child invariably turns tail and scampers away squealing with delight. Once cornered, he or she is usually scooped into their father’s arms where they are supposedly eaten by the bear, something which turns out to be ticklish and immensely enjoyable for the child. And every time the child experiences being caught, their faith in their father’s love is strengthened.

Children who are exposed to such games learn a number of valuable lessons. They learn to distinguish between reality and illusion – they know their dad’s not really a bear. They also enjoy the thrill of being scared while knowing that they’re not really going to be hurt, so they learn to deal with a negative emotion (fear of the “bear”) in a supportive and positive environment – something which proves invaluable when they make their own way in the world and have to face real fears that come across their paths.

Another lesson they learn is how to read their father’s face and to respond accordingly. Dads often quickly tire of children’s games (just try keeping up with an enthusiastic toddler and see how long you last), but the positive outcome is that, from as young as six months old, children have been found to be able to read the expressions on their fathers’ faces and can tell when the game is over. These children learn how to bring themselves down from the emotional high they were on as a result of being chased, causing them to grow up with a higher level of emotional self-control and emotional intelligence. Now emotional intelligence is becoming a major currency in the business world. Studies have shown that, of people with the same IQ, education, skills and experience, it’s the person with the highest level of emotional intelligence (EQ) who will get ahead of the pack in the world of work. And fathers play a role in helping to develop their children’s EQ.

Fathers also typically throw their children in the air and catch them or encourage their children to jump from the bed or couch while they stand waiting to catch them, simple games which involve elements of risk and which require the child to learn to trust their fathers. Watch your child the first time you encourage her to jump into your arms. She won’t be too keen but, as she comes to understand that you’re going to catch her, she comes to love it! By contrast, watch a child who has never been exposed to this type of game. They are quite obviously terrified.

Another important way that fathers strengthen the bond between themselves and their children is through the use of secret signs of affection. This can take the form of a squeezed hand or a wink across a room to your child, giving them a sense of well-being and security that they get from experiencing the invisible bond that exists between them and their father.

Father
A father is spending quality time, together with his sons, fishing  at the lake

Children thrive on attention and approval from their fathers. As a child grows up, they will frequently say those immortal words, “Look, daddy!” as they attempt to perform some or other activity. This is an expression of their desire to obtain approval and recognition from their fathers, and all this requires is the necessary attention directed at them (probably for no longer than a few seconds at a time) and an appropriate comment such as, “That’s wonderful, sweetheart!” or “Well done, son!”

Of course, one has to be realistic about this – you wouldn’t give the same attention to your child while driving your car as you would in your back yard, and explaining to your child why there is a good and a bad time to focus on him or her is also a valuable lesson for them. It helps them learn that, contrary to their belief, they are not the centre of the Universe and that sometimes they have to delay gratification in the interests of other people or things.

We live in a very success orientated world. While there’s nothing wrong with that, we fathers, unfortunately, tend to view success as something which we achieve outside the home. When we broaden our view of success to include not only that which we achieve in our work but also that which we achieve in our families, we find fulfilment and meaning we didn’t realise we were missing. After all, what are we really working for if it isn’t to give our families the best possible life?

Don’t make the mistake of losing yourself in your career in the interest of giving your family a certain lifestyle when they would rather have you around instead. A good formula to apply is: spend half the money and twice the time on your children and you will experience ten times the happiness as you see your children fly higher than you thought possible!

Author

Alan Hosking is the author of What nobody tells a new father, the new dad’s guide to pregnancy and parenthood. He has helped first-time and experienced dads become more involved parents for two decades.

The Benefits of Volunteering With the Elderly

If you are a stay-at-home mom, many of your day-to-day activities will revolve around your children and family unit. This can be highly rewarding, yet you may still feel the urge to interact with other people and offer your time and skills to a worthwhile cause.

If you are considering volunteering opportunities that allow you to utilize your experiences from a former career or simply provide you with a sense of fulfillment by serving others, then volunteering for the elderly could be a good match. In this article, we will explore some of the benefits of doing this.

 

Reduce Loneliness and Isolation

Isolation and loneliness in older adults are major public health issues that affect much of the elderly U.S population placing them at greater risk of serious health conditions such as dementia. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), almost one-quarter of adults aged 65 and older are considered to be socially isolated.

Through volunteering, you can help combat the feelings of depression and loneliness many elderly people feel. By taking the time to sit and have a conversation or escort an elderly person on a walk you can offer much-needed company and support,  thereby making a meaningful difference in their life.

 

Develop Your Skills

In addition to practical matters such as picking up groceries or teaching elderly people computer skills, volunteering with the elderly will require you to develop some soft skills too.

Having conversations in a kind and empathetic manner, as well as listening and understanding things from a different point of view, are some of the softer skills you will learn, which can also help you in other areas of your life. Strengthening your interpersonal and communication skills will also bolster your resume, setting you in good stead to enter the workplace.

Volunteering in this area may also lead you to pursue a career in the area. Consider undertaking one or more aged care courses to help you develop your skills.

 

Support Families

Often work responsibilities mean that families do not have the time or resources to take care of their aging relatives throughout the day, making them reliant on the services of local volunteers to keep their family members company.

Knowing that someone caring, trustworthy and helpful is spending time with their loved one can offer much peace of mind and relief to families allowing them to tend to other matters.

 

Make New Friends

Hands
A young person’s hand is holding the hand of the older one.

Volunteering also offers you the opportunity to make meaningful and lasting friendships with the people you meet. Through spending time together you may find you have some common interests such as playing chess or bridge or perhaps you have similar taste in music, books or sport. Volunteering can be a rewarding experience allowing you to share your love for a hobby or pastime with another and can also help you to broaden your mind as you learn more about the life an elderly person has lived.

Having greater life experience often means a wealth of wisdom and knowledge in an area you may enjoy learning about. Hearing about their stories can offer you guidance and insights into your own life helping you to see things from a different perspective.  

The three benefits of volunteering for the elderly highlighted in this article show how it can improve the lives of others and help you gain a profound sense of personal satisfaction and fulfillment in your own life.