Dresses for all occasions – Tips and best deals

Renting a vehicle has become more convenient than ever before. You can choose from a variety of options, such as rental box trucks, pickup trucks, cargo vans to haul your belongings around, or sedans and SUVs to travel comfortably. No matter your requirements, there are certain do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during a van rental to ensure a seamless experience. Here are a few tips to consider when renting a van:

Take your time
When you are used to driving your vehicle, adjusting to a new one can take some time. Be sure to look around to understand where the controls are located and familiarize yourself with them before leaving the parking lot. On the road, drive slowly and ease into parking spaces instead of rushing to get things done. This will help you have a pleasant and safer driving experience.

Be mindful of your insurance
To know what your car insurance policy covers, it’s important to review your insurance papers. This will help you determine if you need to buy additional renter’s insurance for your rental van from the company, depending on your coverage.

Compare your choices
People living in larger cities are likely to have more rental companies to choose from. Do your homework and compare the prices offered by different companies, so you can get the best price possible. Price alone may not be the deciding factor when choosing. While a cheap rental van may sound attractive, look into the other features and services offered, and weigh them according to your needs. Read the full terms and conditions before finalizing your rental agreement.

Check the documents and the car
Just like you would when making any other purchase, it’s important to carefully review the paperwork before renting a van. Take a close look at the agreement and watch out for any additional charges that may have been included. Once you have the van, inspect it for any damages and promptly inform the rental company if you notice any. Doing this before you drive off the renter’s premises can help you save your deposit and avoid any unnecessary hassles or damage charges later.

Try to have one designated driver
If you want to avoid incurring additional charges, try to have one or two designated drivers (some may exclude spouses or domestic partners). Even if you have drivers over the age of 25, most policies will charge additional compensation for every driver you register. Additionally, each driver will have to meet the age requirements, appear at the rental counter with the primary renter, and present a valid driver’s license.

Don’t rent from an unlisted company
When renting a van, it’s important to consider smaller companies as they may offer better rates. However, it’s crucial to check their authenticity by looking at reviews and listings beforehand. Renting a van from an unlisted company can cause trouble later on, especially if you run into a situation where your car needs to be replaced. On the other hand, renting from a larger company will allow you to choose between multiple rental options and have a backup if needed. You are also likely to receive better service during a vehicle breakdown, as many big companies feature an in-house repair station.

Don’t ignore the restrictions
Rental cars are often accompanied by several restrictions, so make sure you check with the company before you leave. Some of these may include speed or distance limits, and you may be liable to pay extra when you cross them. Avoid any penalties and have a smooth experience by considering these details before you finalize your rental agreement.

Don’t wait until the last minute
It’s ideal to book your van as soon as you learn of your requirements. By reserving a van in advance, you can get the vehicle you need at the best possible price. This will also help you save time for other important tasks. Communicating with a van rental company in advance about your requirements can help them plan more efficiently and offer better service throughout your rental period. Of course, you can always choose to cancel your rental reservation later. Some companies may charge a premium for last-minute cancellations.

Don’t be in a rush to drive off
There are several things to learn about a car/van when you first begin to drive it. Don’t be in a rush to drive off the parking lot. Speak to the rental company and have all your questions answered. Chart your driving route in advance for a more comfortable and confident van-driving experience.

Don’t use a debit card for the rental
Debit cards are not always accepted for rentals, and most places do not accept cash. Car rental companies prefer payments made with credit cards, as it gives them a higher assurance of payment. However, as a user too, there are several perks of using a credit card during a rental payment. The two biggest advantages are protection against fraud charges and the ease of disputing errors. If a rental company raises an invoice that you do not agree with, you can dispute them without losing access to a portion of your money (as you would with a debit card). Plus, you also stand a chance to win points or rewards when using a credit card.

Once you have rented your van, it is time to put it to work. Driving a van is a different experience from driving a Sedan or an SUV. Remember to be mindful of the van’s length when making turns, changing lanes, and parking. Ask someone for help if necessary. Many areas also have height restrictions, so check the van’s height beforehand to save yourself from uncomfortable situations. We hope these tips mentioned above make your van rental experience seamless.

Internet connectivity is the need of the hour for working professionals who operate from home, students, and generally anyone who wants to be online. So, getting a family plan is better if you install a new Internet connection at home. These plans cater to every individual’s needs and support multi-device streaming and seamless connections to work or study. This article discusses the best plans to choose, mistakes to avoid, and ways to boost your Internet connection.

Common mistakes to avoid while choosing Internet providers
Choosing an Internet service provider can be confusing at first, so here are a few basic mistakes you can avoid:

• Choosing the wrong connection
  Avoid choosing a low-cost Internet provider simply because you get some free basic plans. You will end up with a low-speed connection that might not be sufficient for all household members. Compare plans to find affordable Internet services that work for everyone.
• Getting confused with Internet types
  Fiber optic connections are the fastest and offer decent speeds for multiple users to connect and enjoy Internet services. However, some affordable plans may only be available with limited bandwidth. So, you must check and compare types of Internet connections, including DSL, cable, and fixed wireless.
• Not reading the terms of the agreement
  If you are applying for special Internet discounts, consider the terms and conditions mentioned in the qualifying criteria. You don’t want to commit to anything long-term when many alternatives are available on the market.
• Not getting the proper hardware
  You must invest in a decent modem and essential hardware for your home Internet to work seamlessly. Some government-sponsored Internet access benefits include the cost of these installations.
• Not comparing all available offers
  You’ll have to do some research to check out the best home Internet options available and compare services, irrespective of the ACP benefit. Don’t miss out on promotions simply because you haven’t checked out the available alternatives.

Top 3 affordable home Internet services
Verizon, Cox Communications, and AT&T are among the top services providing affordable Internet offers with benefits sponsored by the government as well.

• Verizon’s low-cost Internet for low-income families
  Verizon has partnered with the government to provide low-cost, affordable Internet services under its Lifeline Assistance Program. Suppose your income is less than or equal to 135% of the federal poverty guidelines. In that case, any household member receiving benefits under a qualifying federal assistance program can avail themselves of the discount. These primarily include Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Supplemental Security Income, Federal Public Housing Assistance, Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefits, and other special tribal programs.The 300 Mbps plan is free, while the 500 Mbps plan costs only $24.99 per month after a discount. Users are also eligible for the gigabit connection under the low-cost scheme for a discounted price of $49.99 per month with speeds up to 940 Mbps. Average savings under the scheme start at $20 per month and vary depending on the plan chosen.
• AT&T Home Internet Services
  AT&T is another Internet provider that partners with the government to provide low-cost Internet, sponsored under the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). Given the low tariff rates for the service’s basic Internet plans, you can get free Internet access upon qualifying and applying the discount. Eligible households can get a minimum $35/month discount, up to even $75 for unique qualifying tribal lands. The basic 100 Mbps plan starts at $30/month, and no additional charge is levied for annual contract maintenance, installation, or Wi-Fi modules. With the ACP $30/month credit, you’ll virtually enjoy free Internet access upon qualification. The discounts are applicable even for high-speed Internet plans over 100 Mbps.
• Cox Communications low-cost Internet
  Cox Communications offers a variety of low-cost Internet plans under the ACP program. Individual users can enjoy the ConnectAssist plan with speeds up to 100 Mbps, ideal for connecting up to five devices, including a free modem rental and no term agreement. While the plan starts at $30 per month, qualifying individuals under the ACP benefit can use the Internet connection for free upon receiving the monthly credit.Families can alternatively check out the Connect2Compete Internet plan, which also offers 100 Mbps speeds with all the perks and benefits of the individual plans. The plan is priced at $9.95/month, with ACP credit available for specific qualifying criteria. In addition, at least one K–12 students must receive schooling benefits under government-sponsored education programs.

6 easy steps to boost Wi-Fi connection
When you use affordable Internet plans with limited bandwidth and speed, the following tips and hacks will help boost your Internet speed significantly.

• Restart the devices
  Sometimes, overheating of the devices can cause severe lag and latency issues. Restart the device or turn off the router for a few minutes to allow the device to cool down. The power-down and power-up cycles also boost Internet speed.
• Shift the router or modem
  Wi-Fi speed can also be affected if there is a barrier behind or in front of the antennas. This disturbance causes the signal to bounce back and affect latency, causing the Internet to disconnect. Wireless routers need to be placed in a location where there is no interference.
• Revise the frequency
  If multiple users are logged in, increasing the frequency band is better. Wi-fi routers operate on two radio frequency bands, mainly 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Switching the frequency will shift your device to better bandwidth and ensure seamless connectivity.
• Use a Wi-Fi extender or booster
  Range extenders and signal boosters can easily enhance your existing low-bandwidth Wi-Fi connection for a bare minimum cost. To enable a direct connection, you can even switch to a dedicated Ethernet port connection for desktops.
• Disconnect unnecessary devices
  Sometimes you’ll forget about that iPad or spare phone that’s still connected to the Wi-Fi network but not being used actively. Disconnect unused devices so the network is only used for active connections. This will help improve speed even on limited bandwidth.
• Update the interface
  Device updates can also affect the Wi-Fi connection because manufacturers keep releasing new software updates. You must download the latest firmware for the routers and modem to ensure the connection is stable.

Dental implants are the best way to replace missing teeth, but there are certain things that one should avoid after getting the procedure. The gums are delicate after the surgery. Many patients return to the dentist because of a post-surgery injury caused by a particular food item. Apart from following proper oral hygiene, it is also essential to watch out for certain foods to protect the implants.

What are dental implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that replace missing teeth. They are made of titanium and surgically placed in the jawbone, replacing your natural tooth with an implant that looks, feels, and functions like a real one. The implants can replace single or multiple teeth in both the upper and lower jaws. The procedure involves placing an implant into your jawbone behind (or below) the remaining healthy natural teeth so they can support new ones when needed later.

List of foods eat after dental implants

• Macaroni and cheese
  This food is both tasty and filled with carbohydrates and fats, which can curb your cravings. It can also satiate your hunger pangs.
• Eggs
  Eggs, soft-boiled or scrambled, or plain omelets are suitable for your teeth and serve as a daily dose of protein.
• Pancakes
  Pancakes, soft and topped with maple syrup or honey, are one of the best foods you can have soon after your dental implants.
• Soups
  Soups are a great way to get all the nutrients your body needs, including vitamins and minerals. Vegetable or chicken soup is an excellent choice because it has many different flavors that come together in one bowl.
• Mashed potatoes
  The mashed potatoes can give much-needed moisture throughout the day because they contain salt, which helps balance out what goes into our bodies.
• Mashed Bananas
  Bananas are rich in potassium and many mother minerals. Soft mashed bananas are easy to swallow and also taste good. Moreover, they provide enough energy to keep you going for a while.
• Oatmeal
  Oatmeal is a wholesome food that is a staple breakfast option. Soft, milk-soaked oatmeal can be relished after surgeries as they nourish the body and prevent straining the gums.

List of foods to avoid after dental implants

• Hard and sticky foods
  After surgery, the gums are sensitive and susceptible to damage or infection. Make sure you avoid hard and sticky food items like caramel and peanut butter, candies, and cookies to prevent irritating the area that can cause pain or irritation. Try softening some food with water before eating it. This will make it easier for your mouth to digest without adding extra pressure to your new tooth structure.  Taffy and chewing gums are chewy and sticky on the teeth, which can cause injury and strain to the gums.
• Crunchy and dry food items
  This includes nuts, seeds, dried fruits, vegetables like celery stalks, carrots, and cucumbers, and hard candy, such as licorice and chocolates.
• Acidic foods
  Avoid acidic foods such as tomatoes or citrus fruit, especially acidic fruits such as oranges, lemons, limes, and lemonade (the juice). Citrus juice contains citric acid, which may erode dental implants over time if ingested regularly!
• Sodium-rich foods
  Avoid salty foods like processed meats and fatty foods like bacon bits or fried chicken nuggets – they will leave an unpleasant taste in your mouth. Salty foods can cause swelling in your mouth, making it difficult for you to chew. It’s also essential to avoid sweetened drinks like soda or juice because they can cause tooth decay over time if they are not consumed in moderation.
• Spicy foods
  Spicy dishes, such as curry, and fried foods, should be avoided because they may cause swelling of the gums around your teeth.
• Coffee
  Coffee is a diuretic, which can cause your body to lose water. This can lead to swelling, pain, and discoloration of your gums due to dehydration.
• Milk tea
  This drink contains caffeine, which can irritate your mouth if you have dentures in place. It also contains lactic acid bacteria that could cause infection in the implant site if left untreated. Switch to alternatives if necessary.
• Crunchy nuts
  These are high in sugar content and should be avoided immediately after dental implants because they may get stuck between teeth, and the debris buildup from chewing them may lead to damage at the surface of implants causing the tooth condition to worsen over time.
• Jerky meat
  It is best not to eat jerky because it is loaded with high amounts of salt & preservatives, which can make you thirsty and dehydrate your body even more than usual. If you are craving meat, look at different cooking options, like chicken soup or mashed nuggets.
• Steak
  Steaks and other red meat varieties can be chewy and potentially damage or injure the new implants. Therefore, it is advisable to steer clear till the implants are healed.
• Ice creams
  This is not necessarily a food you should avoid after dental implants but more so something to consider before getting them placed. Ice creams are high in fat and sugar, which can cause plaque buildup on your teeth and lead to tooth decay. So make sure you brush your teeth after eating ice cream to prevent the aftermath conditions.

After dental implants, it is essential to follow a healthy meal plan. It may take a while before you can eat your favorite foods again, but with proper care and attention to your oral health, this should not be an issue. There are many reasons one should eat well after getting dental implants. It helps prevent disease, maintain good oral health, and help repair gum tissue if necessary. 

If you still experience pain after the dental implant procedure, make an appointment with your dentist at the earliest. This may mean that you may need to have the implant replaced or adjusted. Ignorance can worsen the dental condition, leading to further complications,

Macular degeneration is an eye condition that causes changes in the macula, leading to vision loss. Though there is no cure for this condition, following an eye-healthy meal plan is important in managing complications like vision loss. A nutritional regime for age-related macular degeneration should include healthy amounts of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Some foods that contain eye-healthy vitamins that help manage symptoms of macular degeneration are listed below.

Macular degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration is a primary cause of vision loss among people aged 55 years and above. The condition refers to the deterioration of the central part of the retina called the macula. Symptoms include blurry vision, blind spots, difficulty recognizing faces, visual distortions, and more. Studies indicate that nearly 20 million people in the country live with some form of age-related macular degeneration. This condition occurs in two forms- the dry and the wet form. The dry type occurs when the macula gets thinner with age. This condition gradually progresses over the years. The dry form can advance into the wet type when abnormal blood vessels develop in the back of the eye and harm the macula. The wet type of AMD usually accelerates vision loss.

Leafy green veggies
Dark-green, leafy vegetables are rich in beta-carotene and carotenoids such as lutein and zeaxanthin. Including leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, and collard greens in your meal plan can increase the pigment density in the macula and potentially slow down age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Also, keep up a healthy intake of cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, and cabbage, all excellent sources of essential vitamins.

Colorful vegetables
Colorful vegetables such as carrots, red and yellow pepper, pumpkin, and tomato contain carotenoids that contain essential vitamins for the eyes, such as lutein and zeaxanthin. To manage macular degeneration, include all these colorful and eye-healthy veggies on your plate.

Fatty fish
Individuals diagnosed with macular degeneration are advised to add fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, sardine, mackerel, and herring to their meal plan, as these fish contain anti-inflammatory properties that can slow down the advancement of this eye condition. In addition, fatty fish contains high omega-3 fatty acids that can help lower cholesterol, which is also linked to macular degeneration.

Eggs
Meals high in lutein and zeaxanthin may also help decrease the risk of AMD’s progression. Egg yolk has a high concentration of lutein and zeaxanthin that can protect the cells in the macular area.

Citrus fruits
People with AMD should include vitamin C-rich foods in their nutritional regime to slow the condition’s progression. Vitamin C helps build collagen that promotes healthy blood vessels in the eyes. Citrus fruits such as oranges, peaches, and kiwis deliver a good amount of vitamin C.

Beans and legumes
Beans and legumes such as chickpeas, kidney beans, and black-eyed peas are high in zinc, a trace mineral essential for eye health. Zinc helps the body absorb the vitamin A needed to protect the eyes from the damaging effects of light.

Seeds
Seeds contain vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids essential to regulate cellular functions. You can eat sunflower seeds, chia seeds, or flax seeds as a snack or add a spoonful to salads or smoothies for managing vision problems such as macular degeneration.

Nuts
Consuming nuts can also help individuals with mild macular degeneration avoid developing advanced macular degeneration. Almonds, hazelnuts, peanuts, and walnuts are rich sources of vitamin E, an antioxidant that can combat a wide range of vision problems. Eating a handful of nuts daily is highly recommended to prevent AMD from worsening.

Oysters
Seafood choices, mainly oyster, is one of the best nutrient-rich sources of zinc and can slow the progression of macular degeneration. Avoid grilling or baking shellfish, as doing so can reduce their zinc levels. Instead, steam, boil, or poach oysters to retain their zinc levels.

Sweet potatoes
Regular intake of sweet potatoes is great for the overall health of your eyes. Sweet potatoes are high in vitamin A and beta-carotene, which are known to improve night vision.

Avocado
The nutrients in avocados are beneficial for protecting your eyes from poor vision. This green fruit is loaded with vitamins C, E, beta carotene, and lutein, making it a must-have food for individuals with low vision. You can have sliced avocado for breakfast or add it to salads, dips, soups, or sandwiches.

Whole grains
Whole grains are good sources of zinc, an essential nutrient for regulating cellular functions. People with macular degeneration tend to have low levels of zinc. Eating more foods that contain zinc can reduce the risk of advanced AMD. Add whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, and barley to your meal plan.

Brussels sprouts
Brussels sprouts are an excellent vegan alternative for omega-3 fatty acids. This little green vegetable contains two essential antioxidants—lutein and zeaxanthin. Make sure to add this vegetable to your meals to support the macular health of your eyes.

Lean meat and poultry
Lean meat and poultry such as beef, turkey, and chicken provide zinc, vitamin A, and other vital minerals for eye health. These nutrients in lean meat help nourish the retina and are healthy nutritional options for people with low vision. However, lean meat has to be consumed in moderate amounts and as part of a varied nutritional regime.

To reap the benefits of these superfoods, one must include them in the meal plan at least three to four times a week. Besides consuming a  meal with the right vitamins and nutrients, avoiding foods high in saturated fats and sugar is extremely important. The food you eat plays a significant role in your eye health; therefore, it is essential to have a well-balanced and healthy meal plan containing foods that can help manage the symptoms associated with macular degeneration. However, it is also important to seek the advice of a nutritional expert before making changes to your meal plan if you are experiencing any other underlying health conditions.

Our cats are more like family to us than mere pets. We love them, and they make us as happy as human children make their parents. No matter what people say, they’re undoubtedly the best! But all this said, caring for a cat is a big responsibility. You can feed your feline friend from your plate, but be cautious because some human foods are unhealthy for cats. Below, we’ve listed seven safe options to consider.

Fish
This is an easy one. You might know how much Garfield loves tuna, and your little kitty will be no different. Salmon, crab, tuna, and herring are fish you can eat and share with your pet. Fish have healthy omega-3 fatty acids, an essential nutrient for keeping cats healthy. Omega-3s are all the more important if your kitten is growing. But always ensure fish is well-cooked and not excessively seasoned. Uncooked fish has pathogens that affect you and can also be dangerous to cats.

Oatmeal
A lesser-discussed human food that’s cat-safe is oatmeal. This pasty food, a rich source of energy and vitamin B, could be a good breakfast option for you and your pet cat. But though oatmeal is ideal to start the day, not all felines like it. So, try a little, perhaps with milk, since cats like milk. If you’re looking to make your kitten try new foods, it’s a good idea to introduce them with something they already like. Doing so may make them want to try it out of curiosity.

Eggs and chicken
Whether the chicken came first or the egg, your cat probably doesn’t care. Eggs and chicken are both human foods your pet may choose over other moist foods. Your little feline might prefer the egg yolk to the whites, which is good because the yolk contains more nutrients and protein and is tasty. Chicken is a staple ingredient in many brands selling wet cat foods, probably because of a cat’s obligate carnivorous nature. When cooked thoroughly, chicken is also an ideal source of lean protein.

Cheese
A popular dairy product your tabby might be interested in is cheese. Like most veterinarians, your kitten probably figured out that cheese has high amounts of protein and calcium. Most kinds of cheese smell good to your pet, so don’t be surprised if they show up when grilling a cheese sandwich. It’s best to feed them hard cheeses like gouda or Swiss rather than soft cheeses like feta or ricotta. You can also bake cheese into treats for your kitty as a healthy alternative to packaged options.

Berries
Berries are good sources of fiber, vitamins like A and C, and antioxidants, all of which support good health and reduce the marks of aging on the body. Strawberries and blueberries are particularly rich in antioxidants and low in sugar. They’re fun treats for feeding your feline baby after playing with them. Your kitten may take time to learn the new taste, so be patient. Berries are an excellent food to share as you snack on them yourself.

Spinach
A surprising human food that’s safe for your pet cat is spinach. Take a lesson from Popeye and consider this leafy green veggie, rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and minerals like iron and calcium. Spinach is good for health, so several commercial cat food brands like Purina and Hill’s include them in their recipes. With the ability to promote immunity, strengthen bones, and improve heart health, there’s little reason why you cannot share spinach with your entitled, cute pet cat. However, be cautious if your cat has a kidney condition, as spinach could be dangerous in such cases.

Fruits
Many fruits that usually appear on your grocery list are cat-safe. Bananas are an excellent source of potassium. Apples (without the skin, stem, and seeds) are an excellent source of fiber and vitamin C. Watermelons and cantaloupe are watery fruits that shower your pet with nutrients and antioxidants.

Feeding tips to follow
Adding human food into your pet cat’s bowl can seem exciting. You may have found one more thing to share with your furry soulmate. However, there are a few critical things to consider when feeding your cat human foods:

Pay attention to your kitten’s interests
Some cats may not be interested in human foods, so don’t force them. If your pet shows interest in a new food, ease the transition by pairing it with treats they already like. This means giving your cat combinations of foods, like mixing salmon and spinach.

Don’t overdo it
Human food cannot be your kitten’s meal but only a snack. If you share almost every meal with them, you might put their health at risk. Speak to a vet about how many snacks are allowed and which human foods are safe for your kitty.

Dog food is a big no-no
Rather obviously, your furry pet isn’t a canine. Dog food contains several different ingredients and combinations unsuitable for cats.

Not all human foods are cat-safe
The allium in onions, chives, and garlic can cause circulatory problems in your cat by impeding oxygen delivery to vital organs. Over time, even minor ingestions of these vegetables can leave your cat anemic and weak, with elevated heart rate, and can even lead to death. A few other harmful foods for felines include grapes, raisins, caffeine, and chocolate.

Your pet cat is a little being under your care. Don’t let your desire to be close to them or pamper them compromise their safety. Take a few minutes to check if the food on your plate is safe to share. If not, it’s best to go online and purchase cat foods meant explicitly for them. Many cat food brands like Tiki Cat, Purina, Hill’s, and Smalls sell ready-to-eat wet cat foods to maintain your pet’s health. Wet cat foods have higher moisture levels and use fresh ingredients. Speak to a vet to learn about available options and which human foods are safe for your cat.