A Veteran’s Path to Financial Freedom

Being financially free is a basic concept that most people can relate to. It means managing your finances without worrying about the future bust or boom. Having sufficient money to meet your basic needs can help you get through rough times.

Getting sufficient money to start saving is important, but it can take time to break the chain. Fortunately, there are plenty of places that you can build a savings account even if your salary is modest.

Get a Budget

Take a month to track your expenses. This will allow you to identify areas where you can cut down on spending. For instance, you may spend a lot of money on coffee and eating out, but you can easily limit your spending.

Build an Emergency Fund

One of the most important factors you should consider when establishing an emergency fund is having a sufficient amount of money to cover your expenses for three to six months.

One of the most important factors you should consider when establishing an emergency fund is having a sufficient amount of money to cover your expenses for three to six months. One of the easiest ways to start saving is by setting up a savings account. For instance, my credit union has a program that automatically deposits every cent from every debit transaction into a separate checking account.

After establishing an emergency fund, start setting aside money for the next step. In order to do this, you must first put the skills and techniques you gained from creating the fund into practice.

Start Paying Off Debt

One of the most critical steps is to start paying off your debts. This can be done through the debt snowball technique. After you have paid off your smallest debts, focus on getting rid of the rest of your debts. By attacking your debts and putting yourself in a better financial position, you’ll be able to reach financial freedom. Paying off your debts no matter what kind of loan you have can be done, whether it’s a mortgage, credit card, or student loan.

After you have created a budget, established an emergency fund, and a plan to attack your debts, it’s time to think about the future. One of the most critical factors you should consider is making sure that your retirement is financially stable. Although military pension payments and Social Security contributions will be used to fund your retirement, you must ensure that it is secure.

Due to the increasing lifespan of Americans, many people are at risk of running out of retirement funds. To avoid this, it’s important that you set aside a sufficient amount of money. For most people, this amount is around $1 million. However, it’s important to note that younger individuals may need to save more.

If you cannot save enough money for retirement, consider opening a Roth IRA or a 401K. With a small monthly contribution, you can quickly boost your savings. Thanks to compound interest, you’ll be able to retire with a better nest egg.

Regardless of the type of financial freedom you’re seeking, these are some of the first steps you should follow to achieve it. Once you’ve met your basic needs, you can feel secure and free.

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Flooring That Is Pet-Friendly

When choosing the appropriate pet-friendly flooring for your home, it’s essential to consider the various factors that affect its design. Having the right flooring for your home and your pets can be challenging, but numerous options will accommodate your personal style and the needs of your animals.

Tile

For many pet owners, tile is a timeless choice that can be used for any room in the house. Unlike other types of flooring, it can endure spills and clean-ups and is less prone to moisture. Due to the high-definition images of porcelain tiles, they can look like natural hardwood or stone floors.

One of the most popular types of flooring for pets is vinyl, as it’s waterproof, durable, and cost-effective. This type of material can look similar to natural stone or hardwood floors. Its long-lasting and scratch-resistant properties make it an ideal choice for pet owners.

Luxury Vinyl

A luxury vinyl plank is a type of flooring that can look like hardwood or natural stone. It has a soft underfoot texture compared to a vinyl tile.

A luxury vinyl tile is a type of flooring that looks like a tile. It’s designed with a tile-like structure.

Laminate

Known for its ability to endure scratches, laminate flooring is a great choice for active pets. Although it has the same look as vinyl, it tends to mimic the design of distressed or hand-scraped hardwood. Its smooth finish may restrict the movement of your pet’s paw and provide less insulation.

Engineered Hardwood

Engineered hardwood is a great alternative for those who prefer the look of real hardwood floors but are not willing to sacrifice their budget. This type of flooring is made with a thin strip of natural hardwood that’s designed to mimic the natural look of hardwood. However, it’s less waterproof than plastic-based flooring, and excessive moisture will eventually lead to permanent damage.

Cork

Known for its eco-friendly properties, cork flooring is an excellent choice for pet owners. It can withstand moisture and mold and is naturally resistant to fungal and bacterial damage.

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Giving Your Fireplace a Facelift

Your fireplace is a cozy centerpiece in your home, providing warmth and ambiance. However, over time, it may start to look dull or outdated. Fear not! With a few simple upgrades and creative ideas, you can give your fireplace a much-needed facelift, transforming it into a stylish and captivating feature that enhances the overall aesthetic of your space.

Repainting and Refinishing: Choose a color that complements your existing decor, and consider using high-temperature paint or heat-resistant finishes explicitly designed for fireplaces. A fresh coat of paint or a new finish can instantly revitalize the look of your hearth.
Tile or Stone Cladding: Adding tile or stone cladding can completely transform the appearance of your fireplace. Consider using natural stone, such as marble or granite, for a luxurious and timeless look. Alternatively, choose decorative tiles in various patterns and colors to add personality and visual interest. Cladding can be applied to the entire surround or the hearth for a focal point.
Upgrade the Mantel: The mantel is a prominent feature of your fireplace, and upgrading it can significantly impact it. Replace an outdated mantel with a new one that matches your desired style—rustic, contemporary, or traditional. Choose materials like wood, reclaimed timber, or even a sleek stone mantel to create a focal point that enhances the overall design.
Install a Fireplace Insert: If your fireplace is inefficient or lacks functionality, consider installing a fireplace insert. These energy-efficient devices are designed to fit inside your existing fireplace and can provide improved heating capabilities. Choose from various options, including gas, electric, or wood-burning inserts, depending on your preferences and needs.
Incorporate a Decorative Screen or Doors: Enhance your fireplace’s visual appeal and safety by adding a decorative screen or doors. Choose from a wide range of styles, from sleek and modern to ornate and traditional, to suit your interior design theme.

Revamping your fireplace doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By implementing these simple and creative ideas, you can give your fireplace a remarkable facelift, elevating its visual appeal and creating a stunning focal point in your home. So let your creativity shine, and transform your hearth into a captivating feature that brings warmth and beauty to your living space.

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5 Holistic Skincare Products to Consider Using

Over the years, the term “natural” has been used a lot in the beauty industry to describe various products. It’s important to understand what it means and how it can be applied to skincare products. For one, it means that the products should contain natural ingredients such as vitamins, minerals, and plant extracts.

There is a growing number of sustainable brands and products on the market. When it comes to skincare, natural products are known to provide numerous benefits.

One of the most important factors that you should consider when it comes to maintaining a healthy and glowing skin is having a good skincare routine. With the right natural and organic products, it can help nourish and tone your skin effortlessly.

Natural skincare products are known to deliver various benefits. They can help nourish and tone the skin, leaving it feeling fresh and youthful.

When it comes to the environment, natural products are better than synthetic ones. They can help protect plants and animals from harmful chemicals. The brands that are dedicated to creating organic products use only natural ingredients and follow strict manufacturing processes.

While it’s possible for a brand to claim that their products are non-toxic, make sure that they are accountable for the ingredients.

5 Holistic Skincare Products to Try This Year

Ren Clean Skincare Clearcalm Non-Drying Acne Treatment Gel

This gel can be used for those who require a more concentrated treatment for acne. It contains a small amount of salicylic acid, which is known to help produce clean skin in acne-prone individuals.

Boissance’s Squalane + Amino Aloe Gentle Cleanser

This product is ideal for those who want to remove makeup and dirt. It features a gentle formula that can help keep the skin feeling fresh and youthful, and it contains aloe and amino acid complex. Biossance also has a variety of natural skincare products designed to help people with aging skin. Consider browsing their site to learn about more of their products.

True Botanicals’ Nutrient Toner

True Botanicals is known for being organic, and its toner is made with high-quality ingredients, such as ceramides and antioxidant-rich oils, that will leave your face feeling fresh and healthy.

Farmacy’s Clearly Clean Cleansing Balm

If you’re looking for a great organic brand that claims to be “clearly clean,” then look no further than Farmacy. Their cleansing balm is made with high-quality ingredients that can help remove makeup and dirt for a fresh and clean complexion.

Cocokind’s Daily SPF

One of the most important steps in a skincare routine is to apply sunscreen. This product from Cocokind is made with mineral-based and lightweight ingredients, which are free of harmful chemicals.

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Toxic Chemicals to Eliminate From Your Household

The following chemicals can be found in various products and household items. However, their harmful effects are not advertised very often and lead to individuals buying products for their home that contain toxic substances and can lead to a decline in health. Discover a few of these below.

Lead

Found in a wide range of products and household items, such as makeup, toys, and even walls, lead can be an abundant metal. It can cause behavioral and cognitive issues and damage to the body, especially when ingested.

Perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs)

Due to their ability to repel water and grease, PFCs are commonly used in various products, such as food containers and furniture. However, studies have shown that they can cause various health issues, such as cancer.

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

VOCs are a group of chemicals that react with sunlight and evaporate into the air, which pollutes the indoor environment. One example of a common type of chemical is Formaldehyde, which can be found in your home. In short, these chemicals can cause various health issues, such as cancer and kidney damage. They can also pose a threat to fetuses and infants.

Benzyl benzoate

A common type of chemical used to kill pests such as ticks and lice is known as an insecticide. It can also be used in various products, such as plastics. However, it is suspected that this chemical is a neurotoxin, which can negatively effect nerve tissue.

Asbestos

Known as a mineral that can endure chemical corrosion and heat, asbestos has declined in use in the U.S. Despite this, it still remains legal to use building materials that contain up to a percent of this material. Before any renovations, it is important to thoroughly inspect the inside of your home to make sure that it is not filled with asbestos fibers.

Formaldehyde

Also known as a methanal or methyl aldehyde, this colorless and odorless gas is used in various products, including textiles, cosmetics, and building materials. The “new” smell of a car, clothes, or mattress is reportedly caused by formaldehyde. It is a known carcinogen and can affect various organs and tissues, including the respiratory, reproductive, and immune systems.

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Books That All Veterans Should Read

It can be very challenging for many veterans to talk about their experiences in war. Writing about what they went through can help others understand what it was like to be in a combat zone. Below are a few critically acclaimed books by veterans that will give you a deeper understanding of what it was like to be a soldier.

The Snake Eaters by Owen West

In his compelling and highly engaging story, third-generation US Marine Owen West takes readers into the dangerous and chaotic environment of Anbar Province. He places them inside the shoes of an American team of advisors as they fight against the insurgents.

When a dozen US Army Reservists are sent to an Iraqi outpost without training, they have yet to learn what they’re going to be doing. They are then assigned to mentor an Iraqi battalion fighting against an insurgency. Some individuals sent to the outpost include a DEA agent, a postal worker, a guitarist, and a plumber.

The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien

This book is a 1990 National Book Critics Circle and Pulitzer Prize finalist. It was written by O’Brien, who served in the US Army’s 23rd Infantry Division in Vietnam during the war. The book is heavily influenced by metafiction, where the main character’s name is given after the author, and the non-fiction is blurred.

The story follows the relationship between the men in the platoon. It explores the various aspects of war and life after it. It also gives readers a deeper understanding of how soldiers coped with their experiences. The book is dedicated to the members of the Alpha Company.

Here, Bullet by Brian Turner

Based on the author’s experiences, who served in Iraq during the war, this collection of war poetry offers a powerful and unsettling depiction of the experience. The poems are full of beautiful and brutal honesty, but they also leave the reader with a lot of questions to ponder.

House to House by David Bellavia

On November 10, 2004, an infantry team from the US Army led by Staff Sergeant David Bellavi entered the city of Fallujah. During this time, the members of Alpha Company, who were part of Task Force 2, faced an enemy preparing for a long-running battle. The insurgents had been able to set up ambushes and booby-trap houses in preparation for their attack.

Bellavia describes his experience as a hard-bitten and highly trained warrior in his detailed battle account. He also provides readers with a variety of details about the weapons and tactics used by his unit.

In Pharaoh’s Army: Memories of the Lost War by Tobias Wolff

This memoir is a nominee for the National Book Award for non-fiction. It features the author’s experiences in Vietnam as a first lieutenant. Before he deployed, he spent a year learning Vietnamese in Washington, DC. Before that, he had been a paratrooper.

He was stationed near M Tho during the Tet Offensive, carried out by the Communists. In his memoir, the author talks about his experience during this battle and other personal events that he encountered in Vietnam.

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High-Earning Jobs Perfect for Veterans

The military provides highly skilled and educated individuals, which is why so many companies clamor for them. After a career in the military, veterans have many opportunities to pursue a civilian career. There are certain types of jobs that are ideal for veterans with no college degrees and those that blend their experience with what they’re passionate about. Here are some of the best post-military jobs for veterans:

Health Care Provider

A healthcare provider is one of the veterans of the most rewarding profession they can pursue after serving their country. Similar to how military service members were treated during their time in the military, healthcare professionals are expected to perform their duties in a way that’s very similar to their daily lives.

Due to the increasing number of people aging and the emergence of the Covid-19 pandemic, the demand for healthcare workers is expected to rise significantly. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the country will need over 500,000 more nurses by 2022. This means that there are plenty of opportunities for veterans looking to pursue a rewarding and stable career in healthcare. Nurses typically earn around $65,000, but those specializing in their field can earn over $100,000.

Manufacturing Technician

Although the term manufacturing technician is commonly used to refer to factory workers, this job requires a lot of knowledge and skill to perform its duties. In modern manufacturing facilities, technicians work with various complex electronic and robotic systems to ensure that production runs smoothly.

Although manufacturing technicians typically earn a low salary, after a few years of working, they can expect to see significant raises. In addition, by going back to school, they can improve their skills and earn degrees that will allow them to take on more managerial positions.

Information Technology Professional

The technological advancement of the military has led to many veterans leaving the service with extensive IT experience. This field is diverse, with many individuals working in it as software developers and system administrators.

The field is expected to grow even further, so there will be plenty of opportunities for veterans interested in this career. IT workers can expect to earn around six figures annually.

Human Services Representative

The HR department is responsible for ensuring that every company employee is aware of their role in the organization. This group of professionals also hires and fires employees, develops and enforces policies, and keeps the company running smoothly. A typical HR representative can expect to start at around $60,000, while an experienced worker can earn around $90,000.

Sales Managers

As a sales manager, you are responsible for overseeing the performance of other sales professionals and ensuring that the company’s goals are met. This job requires strong leadership skills that veterans can develop from their military experience. Although sales managers come from different backgrounds, most companies prefer individuals with military experience.

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How to Install Wallpaper

Rather than covering your walls with paint, try adding a fashionable and fun new layer of wallpaper. This easy and effective way to add a bit of color and style to your room can be done in just a couple of minutes. You can choose from various patterns and colors and hang it yourself. Let’s take a look at some steps to take when hanging up your new wallpaper.

Measure and Draw Lines

To create a precise and balanced line, measure and record the height and width of each wall. Then, use a measuring tape to find the midpoint of the wall and draw a horizontal or vertical line from the floor up to the ceiling. You can use a nail hammer to create a horizontal or vertical line or hang a tool known as a “plumbing bob” from the center of the wall. If you have walls with features such as doors, windows, or even mantles, you should place your line in the center of the broadest open space.

Determine How Much Paper You Need

To determine the amount of paper you need, divide the width of your roll by the total wall width.

Measure Your Strips

To start your project:

Lay your roll of paper down on your table. If you’re using a patterned pattern, mark it on the back with a straightedge.
If you’re planning on covering your entire wall, measure the paper’s length equal to the height of your wall and the width of your frame.
Cut along the length of the paper that’s equal to the size of your wall and the width of your structure.

Cut Out All of Your Pieces

To determine the length of your entire roll of paper, measure and cut it to the same size as the first strip. If you’re working with a repeating pattern, lay the first strip next to the roll and line up the pattern before you cut. Ensure you don’t allow too much paper at the bottom and top of the strips.

Prepare the Wallpaper

If your paper is made with pre-pasted materials, wet it according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Book it as you go along the strip to prevent the adhesive from getting sticky.

Start Hanging

The easiest way to start your installation is in the least conspicuous part of the room, such as behind a cabinet or a large piece of furniture, and lay the first strip against the midpoint of the horizontal line. Press the paper gently into place, and the seams will meet.

If your paper is patterned, mark the pattern’s starting point against the seam. Follow this step to ensure that the paper is level along the way. Using a putty knife, smooth the paper from the outside edges to the inner corners to avoid wrinkles and bubbles.

If a bubble or surface is not smooth, gently lift the paper and remove it. For instance, if you’re using a peel-and-stick type of paper, pull the backing down as you go.

Trim Excess Paper

After reaching the bottom, smooth the paper against the wall and ceiling using a putty knife. You can then use a utility knife to remove the excess, or you can gently cut the paper with scissors.

After you’ve smoothed the paper’s edges using the putty knife, go over it with a sponge to get rid of any excess adhesive.

Repeat

Follow the pattern for each strip of paper and lay them against the next one. Make sure that the seams are not overlapping.

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Bringing Your Kitchen Cabinets Back to Life

Cabinets are one of the most significant components of your home, and they can be very expensive. Investing in new kitchen or bathroom cabinets can save you money and improve the value and appeal of your home. If you are planning on moving, updating your kitchen and bathroom cabinets can make your house more attractive to potential buyers. Here are a few ways to breathe new life into your old cabinets while also updating your home.

Paint cabinets

Old cabinets can be painted with a high gloss or semi-solid paint. Make sure that they are free of any old stains or finishes. For best results, you should seek advice from a home improvement or cabinet maker.

Change the Hardware

Cabinet hardware can add a new look to your kitchen or bathroom cabinets without replacing the physical door. Choose from various metal styles and finishes, such as copper, stainless steel, and brushed nickel.

Add Crown Molding

If you have old kitchen cabinets that need some TLC, adding wood details such as dentils and crown molding can give them an upscale look. Cabinet detailing can add height and grandeur to any kitchen. To match the new woodwork to the existing ones, you can stain all of the components at the same period.

Reface cabinets

Old kitchen cabinets that are in good structural condition can be easily refaced. This process involves removing the old drawer fronts and doors and replacing them with new ones. A wood grain image can be applied to the existing boxes to achieve a more modern look.

Remove the Doors

For people who like to display their dishware, partially open kitchen cabinets can serve as a decorative addition. This type of storage can also add interest to the walls and the kitchen.

Expand the Cabinets into Another Room

If you have a lack of storage space in your living room or dining room, consider adding new kitchen cabinets. Although replacing all of your old kitchen cabinets can be very expensive, adding several new ones can be a more cost-effective solution.

Your kitchen and bathroom cabinets represent your family’s commitment to quality and longevity. If you want to update the look of your old cabinets, follow these steps. Doing so can help you save money and make your home more attractive.

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Health Tips for Individuals Who Recently Quit Birth Control

If you’re trying to become pregnant or are experiencing some side effects that are not worth the price of everyday birth control, then quitting taking hormonal birth control may be a good idea. There are a lot of factors to consider before taking this step.

If you’re taking birth control to treat a specific medical condition, such as acne, you should prepare for these issues to return immediately after stopping. However, if you’re still thinking that it’s time to stop taking the pill, then you should consult an expert to learn how to make quitting it as pain-free as possible.

Steps to Take Before Quitting Birth Control

Getting the right fuel for your body can help it adjust to the changes that it will undergo once you stop taking birth control. Many experts advise getting your health into check months before quitting your birth control.

It can take some time for fertility to return to normal after stopping taking birth control, but it’s possible to get pregnant immediately. If you’re not planning on getting pregnant, then you should have a backup plan in place.

Unfortunately, quitting birth control can cause hormonal fluctuations that can lead to breakouts. In order to minimize the risk of experiencing these issues, you should prepare for them by taking a few preventative steps, like switching to natural skincare products.

Steps to Take the First Few Months After Quitting Birth Control

It’s generally best to stop taking hormonal birth control after your period has finished, as this will allow your body to adjust to the changes. Getting the right exercise can help you manage your mood swings and keep them in check. Regular aerobic exercise can help decrease irritability and anxiety, as well as incorporating yoga and meditation into your routine.

One of the most important steps that you should take when it comes to quitting birth control is to avoid alcohol, as this can affect your body’s hormones and cause inflammation.

Magnesium and iron are also important nutrients that you should consider taking while you’re transitioning away from the pill. Clients who are not getting enough of these nutrients can experience a significant improvement when they start increasing their intake.

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