Essential Equipment To Get Started Recording Audio

Music / By

Are you planning to build your own home recording studio? There are plenty of reasons that you might want to get started down this path. It could be to start your own small business, or it could be that you simply love creating your own music and you want to be able to record your ideas when the inspiration hits. Maybe you just want professional recordings for when you’re making your next Vimeo production. No matter what the reason is, having your own studio at home takes a little bit of forethought. Make no mistake – this endeavor is certainly not going to be cheap. Just like any other project you jump into, it is essential to research the basics and get a clear understanding of what your specific needs will be.

Computer

With the technological age in full swing, computers are just about everywhere. Whether you’re at school or in the office computers have clearly become a necessity, and almost everyone with a half-decent wage has one. Music studios now are also pretty much entirely digital, so you’re definitely going to need a computer that can handle the workload. If you are just getting started it’s totally fine to use whatever computer you have on hand. As you build out your studio and your projects start to demand more processing power though, it’s likely that you’ll need a computer that’s built for more intense workloads.

Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)

A DAW is a piece of software that is used for recording, editing, and mixing your audio on a computer. When you’re looking into buying a DAW, don’t overthink it. Many people get hung up on deciding which DAW is the absolute best, but the reality of it is that they pretty much all do the same thing. Find one that fits your budget and has the basic features you need, then go ahead and get started.

Audio Interface

An audio interface is the hardware component used to connect your computer with the rest of the gear in your studio. It’s a good idea to learn the basics of how to use them before you make your purchase so that you’re familiar with the number of inputs and preamps you’ll need, the types of connections for your instruments and computer, and the overall sound fidelity that you’re looking for. An audio interface is an essential component for a digital studio because it is responsible for capturing an analog signal and converting it to a digital signal. You don’t need to spend an arm and a leg, but you should also make sure to avoid going with cheap products as your sound will suffer later on in the process.

Microphones

Even today, microphones are essential components in recording studios. If you are just starting out you can certainly get away with using one multifunctional microphone. If you’re recording a lot of instruments though, over time you might find that you need a small arsenal. This is because microphones have different uses depending on the sounds, instruments, and rooms you are trying to capture. Start slowly though, because it’s easy to rack up a huge bill with microphones that you might not truly need in the long run.

Headphones

Headphones are used in the studio for monitoring your inputs as you record and also for mixing once you start putting all of the tracks together. They come in two predominant designs. Closed-back headphones, which are generally used for tracking, offer optimal isolation for when you’re trying to focus on the sound of your instrument as you’re playing. On the other hand, open-back headphones are more often used for mixing as they allow for a higher sound quality upon playback at the expense of inferior isolation.

Studio Monitors

At first glance, studio monitors look similar to a conventional bookshelf speaker. However, their purpose in the studio is very different than what you’d typically expect from a stereo speaker. Instead of enhancing the sound, studio monitors produce audio with a flat frequency response. This allows you to hear the true sound of your mix so that you can accurately make any of your required adjustments accordingly.

Cables

Cables are one of the most basic components for piecing your home recording studio together. You need to to make sure you have the right styles on hand, but unless you have an unlimited budget you can pretty much get away with anything offered on Amazon these days. The most common types are tip-ring-sleeve (TRS) and XLR. The TRS style cable is essentially a standard 1/4″ audio jack carries a stereo signal. You can also get simply a tip-sleeve (TS) which is basically the same but only carries a mono signal. XLR cables are a bit of a different design and are typically used on microphones as opposed to instruments. The main difference is that they can carry phantom voltage required for some types of microphones to function properly.

Microphone Stand

Microphone stands are almost a necessity when using a microphone, and as you build out your studio you might find that you need more of them for complex recording sessions. Depending on where you use your microphones you may be able to get away with more budget-friendly stands, but certain situations will require something that is a bit more sturdy.

Pop Filters

A pop filter is the mesh-screen that goes between the microphone and the vocalist. It is a basic physical filter for the low-frequency blast of air called “popping” that can occur whenever strong consonant sounds such as a “p” or “b” are pronounced. It is not really a requirement per se, but it is cheap and can be quite helpful in making a high-quality recording.

Preparing Outdoor Gear For The Spring Season

Adventure, Tips / By

I don’t know about you, but when I pack up my outdoor gear at the end of the fall season it’s, ehh, not the cleanest should we say. Maybe I’m lazy, but usually at that point it just doesn’t seem so important to me that everything is nice and clean. What’s important is that it’s put away and I’ve moved on to the next thing in life. Hopefully I’m not the only one that thinks this way, and either I’m not lazy or we’re all lazy. Whatever works.

The thing is, almost every year on the last few trips things are just muddy and wet. Naturally everything picks up a ton of dirt. Are you really going to hose and brush everything down? How are you going to get it dry without bringing all of that into your house when it’s cold and wet outside? Maybe someone else out there has a practical solution, but I just pack everything up and wait to deal with it when the sun and the warm weather are back.

Well, spring has certainly sprung, and with it has come the sunshine, warm weather, and drier conditions that allow me to once again bust out my dirty outdoor gear and get it clean for the upcoming season. Here are a few things I do to get myself ready:

Clean Off and Out The Boots

At the end of a busy outdoors season my super high quality pair of boots often look like they’re destined for the trash can. They’re covered in leaves and pine needles, caked on with layers of dirt and soaked through with muddy water from the many puddles I had the misfortune of stepping in. I know what’s underneath though, and that’s my good old trusty pair of boots. I just have to bring them back to life.

So, first things first I’ll smack the living crap out of the to knock off as much of the dried and crusty debris as I can. You might want to cover your face when you do this, because so much dust and dirt flies up in the air you’ll be wondering if there’s a sandstorm. Then I’ll take a firm brush and while the soles are still dry I’ll continue knocking debris out of the tread. Once that’s all said and done it’s time for the garden hose, and I’ll hose those suckers down until the water starts to run clean. Then I’ll hang them out in the sun until they’re as good as new.

Getting The Tent Ready

On any given year my tent has likely seen some serious action. The first thing I’ll do is find a dry patch of land and get it set up so that I can do a basic damage assessment. While the tent is relatively dry – albeit awful musty – I’ll remove any leftover goods (train tickets, napkins, receipts, etc.) and take the opportunity to vacuum out all of the debris that had accumulated over the year of use.

Once the tent is clean on a dry basis, it’s time to actually get the material back in top shape. Usually my neglect has led to some mold forming on the outer and potentially inner walls, and once again there’s usually mud everywhere. I usually find a pressure washer works best for getting rid of both of these, as a gentle stream of high-pressure water loaded with detergent seems to be quite effective. If you don’t have one already, I’d recommend reading through some electric power washer reviews. They are quite affordable and even more useful.

Once I’m done washing I’ll give the tent a chance to dry, then I’ll treat all of the outer surfaces with a good water repellent to keep the coating in good shape to hold up through the upcoming season.

Tending To The Rain Gear

No, not reign deer. Rain gear. You know, like my rain jacket and rain paints. Duh.

I treat my rain gear very similarly as I do to the tent, with the exception of the fact that it is not resilient enough to stand up to the high-pressure stream from a pressure washer. Instead, I’ll hang them all on hangers, empty and invert the pockets, and wipe away any debris. Many people will put their rain gear in the washing machine but I find that this seems to have a hugely negative impact on the fabrics, seriously reducing their usable life. Instead what I’ll do is hose them down and use a sponge to gently lift any dirt and grime that has built up on them. Then I’ll let them air dry in the sun thoroughly.

Again, once they are dry I’ll use waterproofing spray to preserve the resistant properties of the Gortex. This will help them stay in good shape for years to come. If necessary, I’ll mend any minor tears or split seams with a needle thread, and I’ll put extra sealant on any of those repairs because I know from experience that my craftsmanship is a bit lacking and they’re prone to leakage.

With all of that behind me, I’m ready for the next outdoor season. This year I’m going to try to do quite a bit more hiking, as I feel I was spending a lot of time on flat ground last year. It was great fun, but you have to change it up from time to time.

Looking for an Adrenaline Boost? Try Paintball.

Adrenaline, Adventure / By

Paintball played by the speedball method can provide a good rush of adrenaline. It is a fast-paced game, as the field of play is small. The strategy and equipment will be a bit different when playing the speedball version of paintball. The rules for speedball are different than traditional woodball version of paintball as well. Paintball can be expensive, but it is really determined by how much the player is willing to spend on equipment and how often they might play.

If you’re looking for another way to get a burst of adrenaline, you need to try paintball – especially speedball. The field of play for speedball is usually more like an athletic field. The field size will generally be about the half the size of a football field. There are not many places to hide during a game of speedball, and mostly you’ll be working with man-made bunkers. The bunkers can be any shape and they are normally inflatable. The games can be held either indoors or outdoors.

A game of speedball is short and it can be quite intense. The teams typically consist of three to seven players. Speedball is the version of paintball that is played professionally, and it does require some strategy to win. Your strategy will be influenced by the setup of the bunkers, the number of players in the game, and purpose of the game There are games that last about 20 minutes, but often the duration will be quite a bit less. Since the games go by quickly, you are able to play several games in a day. Many people consider speedball very addicting. You can play the game just once, and before you know it you will want play it again and again. People are addicted to the fast pace, rapid firing of the marker, and fun you will have with your friends.

There is definitely some equipment required to get total enjoyment out of speedball. The most important piece of equipment is your mask. You want a mask that is not going to fog up too quickly on you. A less expensive mask may fog up little more easily than other, more professionally designed masks. Mask with thermal lenses will reduce fogging, but this type of mask may be the most expensive.

A paintball gun is often referred to as a “marker”, as this tends to dissociate the sport with violence. For speedball, you want a marker that will fire rapidly. You want check how many paintballs the marker can fire per second – the best speedball guns can fire upwards of 15 balls per second! By having fast-firing marker, you may sacrifice some reliability though, so be aware.

The rush of playing speedball comes from the rapid fire of the markers and dodging behind the bunkers to avoid being hit. Strategy changes as the game moves along and players are eliminated. Because the game is so fast-paced, you need constant communication with your team to have a solid chance at winning the game.

While speedball can be addicting and fast-paced, it can also be expensive. A good marker can easily cost over $1,000. The use of CO2 or compressed air to power the markers is another ongoing cost, not to mention the seemingly outrageous price of paintballs themselves. Overall, the price of playing paintball will be driven by the players’ preference as to how much they want to spend. A player who wants to play with great equipment and who is very involved with paintball will spend more. The beginner may look at the sport as casual and spend small amount for games on the weekends.

Finding A Place To Stay When You’re Abroad

Spain, Tips, Travel / By

The task of finding a place to stay when you’re traveling can be extremely daunting. Not only are you visiting somewhere that you’ve never been, but in many cases your native language won’t be the norm in your destination. Don’t let this turn you away! Here are some tips to make it easier on you.

Plan Ahead

Make every effort to get your ducks in a row well before your intended travel dates. Six months or more is preferable. This not only allows you to get the most affordable prices, but it also puts your mind at ease knowing that you have a plan in place and will not be left on the streets. Without a doubt, when making reservations choose the refundable option. Plans change – just take my word for it. You’ll end up kicking yourself when the day comes that your flight gets rescheduled, you get sick, or you simply have a change of heart while you’re on vacation.

Talk To People

This may seem obvious, but if you have friends or family that have been to the area, let them know that you’re going and see what they have to say. They may be able to recommend a particular hotel, or even tell you to stay away from one, which can be just as helpful. In the best of cases, you can even have friends that live in your destination. This can be enormously helpful for many reasons. They can show you around the town, point out places to visit and places to avoid, and generally act as a tour guide (heck, they might even give you a place to sleep for free!). Plus it’s nice to have a friend to enjoy your stay with.

Most relevant to this post however is that they may even offer to put you up in their guest bedroom, which can save you a fortune and get you off of the beaten tourist path. As you get older, this advantage gets better and better. On my recent trip to Spain I stayed in my friend’s beautiful guest bedroom for a few nights, and I slept on the most comfortable futon I’ve ever used. It looked so stylish, it made me consider getting one of these classy loungers for my apartment. Just remember, if your friends were traveling to your home town, wouldn’t you be happy to put them up and show them around the city?

Pay Attention to Detail

The last piece of advice is to think of the little things. You’d be surprised what items a hotel may or may not include, especially when you are paying quite a bit of money. Here are a few things you should check to see if they are included:

  • Internet Access (WiFi)
  • Air conditioning
  • Breakfast
  • Refrigerator
  • Beach towels

Make sure you know what you are getting into. Maybe you can’t afford hotels that have all of these amenities, and maybe it’s not important to you if they do. The most important thing is that you don’t want to get surprised when you show up to your destination and be left without a key accommodation that you were depending on.

5 Essential Home Upgrades for the Frequent Traveler

Tips, Travel / By

Living life on the road (yes, this is indeed a nod to the classic book by Jack Kerouac) lends itself to a lifestyle with minimal belongings. However, there are some things that you absolutely need and others that you don’t necessarily need, but make your life much more convenient or comfortable. Here are a few of my favorite recent purchases:

Safe

This is truly a must. Having your home broken into and your valuables stolen will really hit you hard, especially if you lose a family heirloom. A safe can keep your valuables such as jewelry, cash, and expensive electronics from being stolen while you are away. Just make sure that you get a quality product, and that you properly mount it upon installation.

Firebox

Along similar lines, a firebox is a great place to store important documents and other heat-sensitive materials while you are away. God forbid anything happens, but even a safe wouldn’t save your birth certificate from perishing if a fire were to break out while you are out of the country. There are plenty of models to buy, just make sure you get something that is big enough for all of your sensitive belongings, has sufficient insulation, and is capable of locking. You wouldn’t want the firebox to tumble over and spill its contents in the worst case scenario.

Vacuum Robot

The next couple of items are definitely not required, but are certainly a luxury. 

Since I’m on the road so often, I don’t have a lot of time to spare. One way to free up some extra time is to outsource your daily tasks to others capable of doing the job. Luckily, these days you can buy robots that do some of your household chores for you. Notably, a vacuum robot has really been a huge time saver. While it doesn’t get all the nooks and crannies in the room, I’d say it gets 80-90% of the floor cleaning done, meaning my work in that particular area is cut down by to at most 20% of what I normally have to do to keep my home looking presentable. Popular brands include the iRobot, or my choice the Eufy Robovac.

Electric Fireplace

OK, I’ll be the first to admit that this one is a bit extreme. However, I’ve been so thrilled with my recent upgrade that I have to share. Growing up I always loved spending time by the fireplace reading with my parents to wind the day down. Obviously, it’s downright impractical to have a fireplace when you’re renting, but fortunately these days there are sleek and hip alternatives in electric fireplaces. While they aren’t quite the same as the real thing, they do have a number of benefits that you don’t come across with a real fireplace – namely there is no mess, the air doesn’t get heavy from the smoke, and you don’t need to buy wood. They are also arguably a lot safer than real fireplaces to boot. I find that they look really cool, and can make your home look very modern. If you’re in the market for an electric fireplace head on over to bestelectricfireplace.review, they have some helpful resources in making your next purchase. If you’re looking to impress your guests, this is one simple addition that can really up your wow factor

Web Security Camera

Nothing puts you at ease when you’re on the road more than knowing your life back home is secure. These days you can buy web cameras for seemingly pennies compared to prices of earlier years. Better yet, most come with apps that you can use to log in and check on your house from the comfort of your mobile phone. Just make sure to have the camera pointed at the most important parts of your home and you’ll be good to go. You don’t have to worry about logging in all the time either, as many web security cameras keep archives hour by hour, at least for some period of time. Make sure to get a wide angle lens for the most coverage for each camera purchased.

Well, there you have it. I’m about to head out on my trip to Spain, and I’m sure I’ll have some fun stuff along the way. Stay tuned and as always, thank you for reading!

Tips on a Stress-Free Weekend Getaway

Outdoors / By

Tired of the same old routine? Feel like you deserve a break from life’s everyday stresses? Well, we’ve got some tips on how to spend your weekend. Whether it be for 24 hours or 48 hours, these quick getaways will help recharge and revitalize you so that you can return to your normal routine feeling refreshed!

Choose your destination: Deciding on your getaway destination is the first step. Picking somewhere close by will save you time and money, but picking a location that has activities you’re interested in can make for a more enjoyable trip. If you don’t have any specific ideas, do some research online or check out travel guides to find inspiration.

Pack your bag: Once you’ve decided on your destination, it’s time to pack. Pack light since the goal of this trip is to relax not work hard. It will be easier for you and others if you have a set schedule – whether that means going out only at night or taking things day-by-day. If there are any additional items you need, such as medication or toiletries, make sure to pack them.

Choose your transportation: If you’re driving somewhere close by then just get in the car and go! Take along a few magazines if it will help pass the time on longer drives. If you are travelling long distance via plane or train, try to leave extra early so that you can enjoy the ride and have time to settle in before your trip begins.

Budget-friendly accommodations: You don’t need five star accommodation for a weekend getaway so make sure to choose something affordable but still comfortable. If you’re travelling somewhere new, it might be best to stay at an inn or hotel instead of renting out an apartment or house.

Keep track of time: Whether you’re taking a quick weekend getaway to the beach, spending 24 hours in a city, or planning an extended trip with family and friends, it’s important that you keep track of how much time is passing so that you don’t miss your flight home! This can be done online using travel itineraries or by setting alarms on your phone.

Now that you’re armed with these tips, it’s time to plan your stress-free weekend getaway!

Why A Cold Brew Coffee Maker Is The Perfect Gift For A World Traveler

Lifestyle, Travel / By

Why a cold brew coffee maker is the perfect gift for a world traveler?

Because it is portable, and you can carry it around in your luggage when you are traveling. The first thing you do when you retire to your hotel room is, you take out the cold brew coffee maker and the container containing your coffee beans that have been grounded in a coarser manner than if you brew your coffee hot.

YOUR COLD BREW COFFEE BEANS – THE COARSER THE BETTER

Rough textured ground coffee beans will make the filtration process easier. This will also make the final output of cold brew coffee far less bitter. What’s good about cold brew coffee is it is lower in acidity – over 67% less acidic than hot brewed coffee.

Since the coffee grounds you’re using have not been exposed to high temperatures, the cold brew coffee you have created will be tasting more flavorful and at the same time, less bitter.

Of course, as a world traveler, and as a coffee lover, one of your main goals is to taste all the coffee varieties of the world. Sometimes you like it hot, sometimes cold. So, be grateful to the friend who gave you this priceless gift of a cold brew coffee maker – you get to taste all the coffee varieties right in the comfort of your hotel room, in its cold version. Just steep overnight the local native coffee beans that were grounded coarsely in your handy cold brew coffee maker. Then, when you wake up refreshed and raring to start your day in a foreign land, just reach out for your cold brew coffee maker with your thirst-quenching and energy injecting cold brew coffee inside, waiting to be poured and enjoyed.

YOUR COLD BREW COFFEE MAKER: FOR YOUR JOURNEYS AND YOUR HOME TOO

Then, when you’re back home, surprise friends who visit you and expect the hot expresso that you always serve. Instead, always have that trusty cold brew coffee maker filled up with your favorite coarsely ground coffee beans steeped in filtered water and chilled in the fridge. You will never know when friends and family come and visit. Offer them a pleasant surprise of cold brew coffee lovingly hand made by you, the erstwhile world traveler.

Unlike hot brewed coffee, which tastes unpleasant after a few hours, cold brew coffee kept in the fridge for a week still tastes spectacular. Cold brew coffee, kept for one week in the fridge, is much like wine which tastes better through time. Isn’t it great and convenient that cold brew coffee maintains its taste and substance even after a week or one-third of a month? Just open the fridge and go pour and enjoy it!

COLD BREW COFFEE MAKER – PERFECT GIFT FOR PEOPLE ON THE GO

And don’t fret, world traveler, if you drink 3 to 5 cups of cold brew coffee every day because of the handiness of your cold brew coffee maker – it may even make you less prone to heart disease by up to 15%. The components in cold brew coffee like magnesium, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory agents see to that.

When you’re going out of town again, don’t forget to bring in your luggage your beloved cold brew coffee maker. As a thought, because you have been so attached to it, why not give a gift of a cold brew coffee maker to a loved one too today!

How To Have Fun At Home

Lifestyle / By

Once we have the opportunity to have a break, staying at home with your family or calling your friends or even just having time to yourself is enough especially if with frequent travel. There is no place like home as they say and sometimes you will have more rest at your home because you do not spend much money or plan. Some people might say that being at home can get you bored easily, but you just have to know the various activities you can do at home.

Play games

If you have board games hidden away in your closet, why not make use of them? You can invite your friends over for a game night. You can make some snacks and have some fun with them. If you have kids, you can also have these games with them or have your friends with kids join you. It does not even need the board games itself. There are various games that do not require them like Pictionary. 

Movie Marathon

You can either do this by yourself or invite friends or just someone for some company. It is just like having a movie night with snacks and everything, but this one has more challenge especially if you have company. There could be a dare for everyone to not fall asleep or else there will be a consequence or schedule bathroom breaks. The movies you choose could be in a series or themed ones and will be also up to you how many hours will it be. 

Cook and Bake

Learning something new is always good. Even if you are cooking for a long time, you will still learn something like new recipes or trying to mix something to make them better. If you are not into cooking, it is never too late to learn. Even if it is just something simple, it is fulfillment and could be a start for you to make your own meals or even cook for your guests in the future.

Read a Book

If you have a book collection that has been neglected because of busy life, now is the time to catch with them. If do not have one but still has a passion for reading, you can always go to the library and borrow some. If you have time, why not join a book club which offers discounts for books and also a great way to meet people with the same interests as you.

Do DIY Projects

Doing DIY projects or crafting is broad. Meaning, it has different kinds and it could be complicated and more physical like making furniture or simple and light like origami or painting. No matter what, having DIY projects is said to be therapeutic because it focuses your mind on creating and finishing something, so it is a great stress reliever especially if you have a long and stressful week. As said before, it can be simple and light that you do not need to spend a lot, as long as you enjoy it and feel fulfilled.

How To Prepare for a Running Race

Extreme / By

Are you looking for something to do that is beneficial for you? Why not learn something new like taking lessons on arts or learning how to play an instrument. Maybe you are athletic and would like to do something about sports. It could be either learning a new sport or joining competitions. Whatever sport you are interested in, there are surely competitions you can join. If you are in a club, it would be a lot easier for you to find one. 

Running is one of those that always seems to have an event. It could be a marathon or a fun run. No matter what, grab that opportunity. It will be beneficial for you to keep in shape. In addition, some of those events are for charity, so you will be helpful for others too. Running a race is not that simple though. You will need to have preparations for it. 

Have the Best Gear

It is just running, why would you need gear? Do not worry, it does you will not need any equipment, but you would need to have the proper attire for it. You would need the right shoes for it. It will be for supporting your ankle, locking your heel into place, and giving your toes enough room to wiggle around. If you are planning to run long distance, get one that is heavier for added comfort. If you are going for a shorter race, have one that is lighter and easier to run with. Clothing is also an important aspect. It would be wise to invest in good ones. Dri-FIT fabrics are designed for this and better for you to look for those.

Train and Practice

To get ready for anything, you would need to practice and running is not a consideration. By training, you will be able to enhance your ability and condition your body. If you are planning to run long distance, endurance is essential and by training, it will be developed. You would also know what your body needs before, during, and after the race. Have a schedule for your training. Remember to not exhaust yourself because it will affect your performance.

Prepare Mentally

Finishing a race is not just about how your body works, but also how your mind takes it. A positive mentality is one of the keys to success. Remember that it is not always about winning, but finishing it. Do not stress about the race too much but relax and have fun while you are at it. 

Prepare Physically

Your physical needs are not just obtained through training, but also how you will take care of yourself. Make sleep your priority. Be sure to have seven to eight hours of sleep in your course of training. Having enough rest will energize you whereas the lack of it will make you feel groggy and dull. Food intake is also important. Be sure to know about proper diet techniques. Carb intake is important to fuel you. Know what other food you would have to eat and avoid. Hydration is also important especially during training, so have a bottle of water and energy drinks with you always. 

The Benefits of Hiking

Outdoors / By

During winter, it is always important to plan ahead what your activities will be next spring and even for summer. There are a variety of them that you can do whether they involve family and friends or simply you all by yourself. Hiking is one of those activities that is not only fun and fulfilling but has many benefits too – but what exactly are those benefits?

Physical Health

If you are looking for something that will make or maintain your fitness, hiking is a good choice of activity. Hiking is categorized as an aerobic exercise or cardio workout. Because of this, it is beneficial for you if you are looking for an activity that helps with losing weight. Not only that, because it is a cardio workout, it has benefits for maintaining our heart healthy and decreasing cholesterol. It can reduce the risk of heart diseases and stroke. It is also good for lowering your blood pressure and also the risk of type 2 diabetes. It will also improve bone health, which reduces risk for bone disease such as osteoporosis, and strengthening our muscles. It will build strength to glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, and also muscles in your hips and legs. Therefore it will strengthen your core and improve your balance. It is also said to reduce risk for cancer at lungs, breast, colon, and endometrial. 

Mental Health

Not only hiking is good for you physically, but it is also beneficial to our mental health. If you are stressed and tired with your work or any other afflictions in your life, hiking will be a great way to destress. It is said that hiking helps with anxiety and tension for it clears our mind. It is also helpful for those who have depression for it boosts our mood. How will it not be? Hiking involves being with nature and it just brings peace to your mind. Studies say that being with nature eases our stress and negative emotions. It will improve on how we will see things because of nature’s simplicity in opposite to the complex world in cities. It is not only for mood and emotions though but also for boosting your brain. It is said when you spend time with nature, you will be more creative even with the problem-solving tasks. Add to that, spending time with your friends and family will surely improve your mood.

Other Benefits

As said before, hiking is a great time to spend time with your friends and family, so it will be helpful for our social lives. It is only not that, you can also join some hiking club from your community and you will be able to meet new people with this. If you have kids, there are also some trails easy enough for them and not only you will be able to bond with them, they will also improve their health and develop confidence. It is also a great way to teach kids, and even yourself, about the beauty of nature. It is a great break for all the technology and gadgets that at times causes us fatigue and focus on something that matters more.

Things That Will Make Your Life Easier

Lifestyle / By

Life is supposed to be simple, but sometimes it would get complicated because of happenings. For example, not enjoying your coffee because it became cold or having problems with your luggage at the airport because it exceeds limits. These are simple problems that can be resolved immediately. You can also definitely avoid in the future by knowing the right things and tools to have. Here are some simple things that you should have for your life to be easier:

Thermo Cup

If you are always on the go and would love to always have a drink on hand, a thermo cup will be a great investment. It does not matter if you want something to remain hot or cold, it can do both. It is also not used for beverages, if you want to want to have soup for lunch or bring it to someone who is sick, you can definitely use a thermo cup for that.

Luggage Scale

If you are one of those who always worry about the weight of your luggage, why not have a luggage scale? There are times that we need to add something in our luggage but not sure if there is still enough room for it to not to be overweight. With a luggage scale, you can easily check on that and will not be worried if your luggage exceeds the maximum anymore.

Portable Smoothie Maker

This is a kind of smoothie maker that you will not need to have an extra cup or tumbler bottle. You can have your smoothie blended and then take it as is. It is also portable, so you can have it everywhere. There are also ones that are rechargeable by USB instead of using an outlet which will be handy during travel.

Coffee Maker

With coffee shops on the rise and trend today, it will be much easier to just buy coffee. But making your own coffee with your own taste is really pleasing and cheaper too. You will get to decide your own taste even your preferred brand of coffee and whatever you want to mix with it. There are also machines that are developed to make it easier. An example is the Keurig which will require pods. But it is a lot easier for it does not require any measuring for both the coffee and water, so it is perfect if you want things fast. The pods also vary with different flavors that will suit your taste. If you would prefer to have cappuccino or latte, you can always invest for an espresso machine.

Pocket-Sized Traveler’s Notebook

Traveler’s notebook has been a trend among planner and journal users. It is a cover, originally made with cover, with elastic bands to hold notebooks. It is originally from Japan but many manufacturers develop their own version with different kinds of materials that will suit the taste and need of a person. It comes in various sizes, but a pocket-size is the perfect size to use as a wallet. There are traveler’s notebook with pockets you can put your cards and money. There are also available pouches that can be purchased at a low price in case it does not have pockets. If you are the one who lists the items you want to purchase, you can attach a small notebook inside.

Cool Things To Include When Building a House

Lifestyle / By

There is just something special in building your own home. It will be yours and you can choose whatever you want to do with it. You can choose the layout and design. As long as you can afford it, you can even choose the size. And since it is your own, you can add as many home upgrades as you want. The question would be if it is really needed or just something that would look cool. Why not both? You can definitely have some things that are necessary and cool at the same time. What are some of those cool things that you could include? Here are some of my favorites:

Video Doorbell

It is a doorbell that can be connected to your phone and you will able to see who is ringing and coming by your door. Add to that, you can talk to them via an intercom no matter where you are, and the person coming would not know. This is one of those gadgets that are not only cool but also very helpful. This would be one of the best gadgets you could invest in because it involves your safety. 

Skylight

Would you like to have some stargazing without leaving your home or even without getting out of your house? Having a skylight will be a great solution. Though the purpose of skylight is to increase the amount of sunlight in the room and makes the area more spacious. In addition, it is also used as ventilation. Typically, it is installed at kitchens and bathrooms for that purpose. But it can also be installed in an attic especially if it is used as a bedroom. Not only will it add light and dimension, but you will also be able to see the stars at night and can have your own session of stargazing in your own room.

Pet Features

If you are one who loves to have pets, why not add features in your house that will be beneficial for them? The most common is the pet door where they can go inside and out of the house. This also includes the kind of furniture and flooring. There are many available that are pet-friendly which mostly means that they are durable and easy-to-clean. You can also give your pets their own furniture or toys for them to play. 

Pullout Storage

Having pullout storage is a good way for your house to have more space and be organized at the same time. This is especially if you have a small space and a lot of stuff. The best thing about this is that it is not limited to one room and can have at any place at your house.

Tankless Water Heater

If you do not want to have hot water always running out, a tankless water heater may be the solution. It also more energy efficient for it only heats water when you needed it and therefore saves you more money. In addition, it is cheaper than the tank ones and also safer because it does not cause any leak or spill. There are also more compact, so it is perfect if you are living in a home with a small space. 

How to Surf for Beginners

Extreme / By

When you are on a break, it would be nice to spend some time on the beach. You could have your friend or family and bring food and games to bond over. You could also do some activities and fun sports such as limbo and frisbee. Why not also try new things? You can try riding a jet ski or banana boats. If you love a thrill, why not try surfing? It might sound and look intimidating. It sure doesn’t look easy either. But everyone, even the experts, all had their beginnings. This might be the time for you, and as you start, you will need to learn about the following:

Know the Right Equipment

Of course, when you surf, you will need a surfboard. There are some beaches that have them for rent, and it would be perfect if you just want to give it a try. But if you are planning to have it as a hobby, you can definitely purchase one for your own and have some recommendations that will be perfect for beginners. It is advisable for beginners to use soft-top surfboards because it is safer and convenient.

Know about the Waves

The next thing you will need to learn about are the waves. Remember that not all waves are great for surfing. There will be a time that it is dangerous and not convenient for surfing. As a beginner, the preferable wave would be that breaking over the sand. But as time goes on, you would need to learn more about waves, so you would know the perfect time for you to surf. 

Know the Basics

Now it is time for you to surf. The question is how will you start? The first thing you need to do and remember is not to surf and learn on your own. Have some experienced friends or other companions like in surf school when you surf. This way, you will avoid injuries and danger. As a beginner, it would be wise and helpful to have lessons. This way you will not only know how but also learn about the different techniques. You will also be inspired by their life and make you fall in love more with the sport. Before you start, be sure to have a warm-up and stretching. This way, you will avoid cramps and increase your heart rate. At the water, remember about the following:

  1. Take it slow. Being on the water could make you excited to learn and start. But rushing things will just do bad rather than good.
  2. As said before, everyone was a beginner at some point. So, do not get attached to those who are experienced. Instead, work on your skills and develop them.
  3. Practice sitting on your board so that you will get used to it and be comfortable for sitting on the board is not easy. Another thing you would need to practice is paddling and have the right rhythm.
  4. Get used to wipeouts fo even experts get wipeouts, so it would surely happen a lot to you as a beginner. But for your safety, you will need to learn how to fall with it.

Hiking Tips and Tricks

Outdoors / By

With all the stress and busyness of our lives, we just want to take a break and unwind. One of the good ways to do it is to have a hike. This is an activity that you can do with your friends and family or just by yourself. There will be planning involved though even it’s just a short one. The reason for this is safety and also to have a smooth adventure. You need to know what to expect. What are those preparations that needed to be done?

Know the right trail and get familiarized

Are you a beginner or an expert? No matter what it is, it is important to know the right trail for you. There are short and easy trails that are perfect for beginners. If you are also looking for a time alone and relax, this may be the trail for you to go for it is less dangerous. Maybe you are an expert and would want to go to a more challenging trail. No matter what will you choose, always be familiarized with it. You should know to expect and what things like what kind of animals or plantsit has around and what kind of terrain it has. You should also have an expectation for what’s to come, so you can prepare what you may need on your trip. 

Know the weather

Another important thing to prepare for is the weather. What season will you take your hike? Will it be during winter with the snow or spring and summer where there are rainfalls? Keep in mind the heat you’ll experience too. The reason for this is because it will affect how you will dress and what to pack. It will also affect the trails you will choose to go to. Also, if the weather is not good and dangerous, you might need to cancel your plans.

Know the essential items

Hiking is not just about dressing up and walking on the trails. There are things you will need to bring during the hike for your safety. Make sure your stuff is clean and ready. The essentials include:

  1. Navigation (map and compass but with technology, your smartphone might have a map, compass, and GPS)
  2. Sun Protection (sunscreen and sunglasses)
  3. Extra Clothing
  4. Flashlight
  5. First Aid Kit
  6. Materials for fire
  7. Food
  8. Water
  9. Emergency Shelter

Know the right clothing

Knowing the right clothing is important for comfort and protection. Light clothing will be a requirement, especially on a hot day. There are all-weather jackets available in case the day is colder and windy. Rain essentials are necessary to be brought because weather is unpredictable at times and you need to be ready at all times. The material of the clothing is also important. Cotton should be avoided because it stays damp. Instead, choose ones that are made of wool or synthetic. Choosing the right hiking boots is also a must. You should have the right type to protect your feet and they should be comfortable for you to wear even in challenging and muddy trails. Choose also a pair that will not cause blisters.

Know about emergency essentials

We will never know what might happen during hiking, so it is important to have emergency shelters and first aid kits in case of accidents. Tell a friend or family where you will be going, so in case of emergency, they will be able to contact professionals and know where to find you. It is also handy to have emergency contacts on hand such as your medical assistance when something serious happens.

Easy Meals for Guests

Lifestyle / By

Our home is an important asset to show people what we are. If you are going to have guests at home, whether planned or not, you should have your home welcoming. Even if you are not around the house all the time yourself, your house can still have the homey vibes that will make your guests comfortable and at home themselves. A good way to welcome them is definitely with food. Whether you made them yourself or have them ordered, how will serve and prepare them will definitely show your appreciation with them. 

Often times though, you might find yourself not enough time to prepare because of busyness. That is not a problem though. Aside from ordering, there are simple recipes that you can do that would not take much time, and here are they:

Pasta Dishes with Garlic Bread

Pasta is one of the ingredients that has many possibilities. With different kinds in various shapes and sizes, there are many recipes involving it. You can always have a simple spaghetti or chicken alfredo. There are also mac and cheese or lasagna and any other pasta casserole dish. If you do not feel like baking, a lot of recipes involve only sautéing with just a few ingredients. Then pair them with garlic bread and you are ready to go.

Salad

Another easy to prepare meal and healthy too. You can make it simple with just vegetables, but you can also have some add ons like roasted beef or chicken. You can also add some tortilla chips or even crispy pita bread for added texture. As for dressing, there are also a variety and it will definitely depend on the kind of salad you serve. It could either be a vinaigrette or a creamier one. You could also have both so your guests will be able to choose.

Roasted Chicken

Roasted chicken sounds like a complicated dish, but it is not. You can have this prepared ahead then put it in an oven before your guests arrived. You can add a simple side dish with it like a salad. If you do not have time to cook, rotisserie chicken is available at grocery stores. 

Burger and Fries

Another simple recipe but longer preparation though. It could either be cooked by a grill or have it pan-fried. It will also be your choice how much stuffing you want. You can also have the ingredients set up and have your guests choose their own stuffing for their burger and that includes the sauce. You can also have smaller ones called sliders. As for the fries,  you can definitely make your own or just buy something from the grocery.

Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese

Tomato soup can be served either hot or cold, so it will not matter what season will it be. There are different kinds of recipes to make it, and it will be according to your taste and choice on the ingredients to add and how the texture will be. Then add it with grilled cheese to dip in the soup, it will surely be delicious.