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Hey guys, you know what's really cool? Small pets! They can be so adorable and bring so much joy. But here's the thing: some of them can actually carry bacteria that can be harmful to us. So, it's important to be aware of that and take the necessary precautions when handling them. Safety first, right? Turtles, iguanas, frogs, and other small pets can actually carry germs that have caused outbreaks of illness in multiple states. It's pretty crazy, right? Just thought I'd share this interesting fact with you all!

You know, when it comes to picking pets for kids, a lot of people go for small animals like turtles, iguanas, and frogs. They're pretty popular because they're super easy to interact with and don't require a tonne of attention, which is great for families with a lot going on. They may be enjoyable, but it might be best to stay away from them.

So, here's the deal. The reason behind all of this is... drumroll, please. Did you know that reptiles and amphibians can actually carry germs that can make us humans sick? It's true! According to Dr. Elizabeth Hohmann, who's an expert in infectious diseases from Massachusetts General Hospital, one of the most common germs they carry is the Salmonella bacteria. It's important to be cautious when handling these reptiles and amphibians in order to stay healthy! Did you know that these animals actually prefer to live in warm and wet environments? It's crazy, right? And guess what? Salmonella, that pesky bacteria, just loves those kinds of places too! It's like a match made in heaven for them.


Have you heard about all the recent outbreaks of illness happening across the US? It's been pretty crazy!
Reptiles and amphibians sometimes have Salmonella. It's pretty interesting because, even though it doesn't make them sick, they can still carry the bacteria around. The CDC's warning on adopting those cute little pet turtles. Apparently, there have been some serious outbreaks of Salmonella illnesses and hospitalisations in 24 states. It's gotten pretty bad this year, so they're advising people to be cautious. Oh, by the way, did you know that other small pets like mice or hamsters, and even farm animals like chickens, can also carry and spread the bacteria? It's pretty interesting, right?

Salmonella can actually be spread to people in a bunch of different ways. It can happen when we come into contact with animals, their poop, food, or even things like toys and food dishes. Even the habitats where these animals live, like cages, tanks, aquariums, and water, can be sources of Salmonella exposure.

Dr. Hohmann says that they get the bacteria on their hands and then accidentally touch their mouths or noses. You know, this is something that tends to happen more often with younger kids.

People who are exposed to the bacteria can develop salmonellosis.

Who has a higher chance of falling ill?
Salmonellosis can affect anyone, but individuals 65 years of age and older, children under the age of five, and those with long-term medical conditions are more likely to experience severe symptoms, including hospitalisation.

Young kids sometimes struggle with personal hygiene and understanding safety rules when it comes to handling animals. As we get older or if we have chronic conditions like diabetes, our immune systems can become weaker. This means that we're more likely to get sick and catch illnesses. It's important to take extra care of ourselves and stay healthy! In really severe cases, those pesky bacteria can actually make their way into our bloodstream. And once they're in there, they can spread to other parts of our body and cause infections.

What signs and symptoms does this infection have?

The main symptoms of this thing are diarrhoea, fever, and abdominal cramps. If you happen to get infected, you might start experiencing these symptoms within six hours to four days. They usually stick around for about four to seven days before finally going away.

If you have a pet that might have Salmonella, it's a good idea to reach out to your paediatrician or primary care team for some advice. They'll be able to give you the best guidance on what to do.

There are definitely some situations where seeking immediate medical care is super important. For example, if you're experiencing severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, or sudden numbness or weakness in your face, arm, or leg, it's definitely time to head
If you or your child start experiencing any of these really serious symptoms, it's super important to get medical help right away.

diarrhoea and a temperature greater than 102°F; bloody diarrhoea that is so severe that you are unable to keep liquids down; Symptoms of dehydration include little to no urination, dry mouth and throat, or lightheadedness when standing up.

If you're looking for the perfect flower vases to enhance your home, I've got some great recommendations for you! Flowers, whether you're the one giving or receiving them, are a beautiful way to express love and show appreciation.

You know, a bouquet of flowers has this amazing ability to tell a story. It's like each flower represents something special, like celebrating someone's age, showing admiration, marking new beginnings, or even expressing sympathies. And the best part is that there are so many other emotions and meanings that flowers can express too. It's truly fascinating, isn't it? Wow, those decorations really add a nice touch to your home! 

They create such a warm and welcoming atmosphere. You know, dried flowers have this amazing ability to bring a cozy and inviting vibe to any room. They have this way of lifting your spirits and helping you unwind after a long day. To really showcase your flowers, it's important to pair them with a stunning flower vase.

Luxury flower vases can also be a great way to express yourself and let your creativity shine. There are so many different vases out there, in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and materials. You can definitely find one that matches your personal taste and fits perfectly with your home décor. These vases come in a variety of styles, ranging from sleek and modern to intricate and ornate. They offer countless options for expressing your personal style and adding a special touch to any room. 

I gathered a collection of my favorite flower vases that I think would really make a statement in your home. All of these options work well for both fresh and dried flowers! If you find that you have a knack for caring for faux or dried flowers, there's absolutely no shame in adorning your home with these lovely flower alternatives.

Best Vases 2024







I traveled to Edinburgh and participated in various activities. My friend had purchased tickets for ice skating, and while she was excited, I was happy too, despite not knowing how to skate.

Upon arrival, we were unexpectedly asked to buy additional tickets, even though the website had two options: one for Edinburgh Zoo and another for skating, and my friend had chosen the latter.

The website clearly stated that the skating ticket didn't grant access to the zoo, and we were fine with that. However, at the reception, Darcy informed us that we needed an Edinburgh Zoo ticket. This was confusing as the website only offered the option to buy the skating ticket separately, and it explicitly mentioned two separate tickets.

The skating area was at the other entrance. Although we requested Darcy to inform her manager, she came back and said the manager denied us entry. We knew she did not speak to anyone, so we insisted on a refund if we couldn't enter, but she claimed only the events team could process it. After calling a member of the events team, they let us inside and explained that on weekends, the zoo entrance was closed and there was a separate entrance for skating. But it was the weekend, and all we needed was to use the other entrance or get allowed inside to go straight inside the skating area, but Darcy did not mention this; instead, she insisted on us buying an extra ticket without attempting to clarify the situation or guide us to the correct entrance. She displayed a cold attitude and polite rudeness throughout. She has a nonchalant attitude and was silently giving off a wicked vibe.

When we went inside, we realised that it wasn't actually ice skating like they had advertised on the website. Instead, the floor had a smooth and slippery surface. One of the staff members at the skating rink mentioned to us that it costs a lot of money for them to maintain the frozen ice. Even though I'm not very good at skating, I still had a great time taking photos and videos. So, my friend had these skating boots that were just not comfortable at all. It was a real bummer. And to make matters worse, it started pouring rain out of nowhere. So, we quickly decided to find some shelter. Luckily, there were these art stands right beside the skating area, so we huddled up there to stay dry. After a little while, we decided to head over to the city centre to have some fun but I still got my jacket a bit wet.

I am wearing the Jack Wolfskin Kyoto Long Coat.



Hey there! Just wanted to give you a heads up before you check out this list. It's a guide to help you find the best gifts for women, and trust me, it'll make your Christmas shopping a whole lot easier this year. No more stress!

When it comes to finding the perfect gifts for women, it can feel like there are countless options to choose from. This can be overwhelming for those who are looking for the best gifts for their moms or sisters, friends, girlfriends.

If you're on the hunt for a fancy gift to spoil someone special in your life, you've come to the right spot. I have selected a collection of top-notch designer gifts, all mostly priced under $500. So you can find something truly special without breaking the bank!

What's the best gift for women?

These are some well-liked gift ideas that people are right now searching for specifically for women.

  • Lounge Lingerie Set: A luxurious and comfortable loungewear set that she’ll adore.

  • Gisou Hair Oil: A haircare essential for soft, shiny locks.

  • Philosophy Vanilla Birthday Cake Body Wash: A delightful stocking filler with a sweet scent.

  • Vegan Cake: For the foodie, vegan brownies are a delectable treat.
  • Coco & Eve Shower set: Elevate her shower experience with this luxurious set.



Here are 10 Christmas gift ideas for her 


1. Personalized Jewelry: Jewelry is such a timeless gift that holds sentimental value for years to come. This accessory brings a touch of elegance and can be worn for special occasions or even on a daily basis.


2. Handbag: You know, a stylish handbag is really great because it's not only practical but also super fashionable. Having everything organized is really helpful, you know? And it also adds a nice finishing touch to any outfit.



3. Spa or beauty gift set: You could consider treating her to a pampering experience, like a spa day or a beauty gift set. It gives her the opportunity to unwind and pamper herself in the comfort of her own home.







Sometimes people perceive hospice and palliative care as giving up, but these vital services actually offer life-affirming benefits during challenging times. Let's take a look at how former president Jimmy Carter's decision to opt for hospice care at his Georgia ranch exemplifies a shift in understanding. Rather than enduring more hospital stays and aggressive treatments, Carter prioritized comfort and embraced meaningful moments with his wife of 77 years and indulging in his favorite treat, peanut butter ice cream.

Choosing hospice doesn't mean abandoning medical care but rather focusing on finding comfort in the care you receive. It's about having the freedom to be at home with loved ones, enjoying favorite shows, meals, and the company of pets, instead of being confined to a hospital. It's an opportunity to paint a picture of what you want the end of life to look like and making decisions that align with your values.

To better understand your options, it's important to differentiate between palliative care and hospice. Palliative care aims to provide symptom relief and support for individuals who are seriously ill at any stage, not just at the end of life. It can be combined with curative treatments and offers an extra layer of assistance for patients, families, and the healthcare team. Hospice, on the other hand, focuses on making the dying process more comfortable for individuals with serious illnesses, often those with a prognosis of six months or less to live.

Hospice care can be provided at home or in a hospital-based unit, dedicated facility, or nursing home, depending on the level of support needed. The hospice team ensures patients have necessary equipment, medications, and round-the-clock assistance when required. They adopt a holistic approach, addressing physical, spiritual, emotional, and social pain to support patients as whole individuals.

Research has shown that palliative care can extend life and improve overall well-being. By incorporating palliative care alongside cancer treatment, patients have experienced longer survival times, improved symptom management, and a higher quality of life. However, aggressive medical care near the end of life remains common, often due to a combination of hope for a miracle, fear, and uncertainty. Engaging in discussions about living well and understanding personal values can help individuals make informed decisions that prioritize comfort and quality of life.

One of the greatest benefits of hospice care is the ability to focus on personal priorities. The hospice team works with patients to understand their desires and supports them in achieving their goals, whether it's attending important family milestones or simply enjoying everyday activities. Creating meaningful memories and engaging in conversations that wrap up one's life journey can be profoundly healing.

If you or a loved one has received a prognosis of six months or less to live, considering hospice care is advisable. It's essential to have open conversations with the care team, inquire about enrollment procedures, seek recommendations from others who have experienced hospice care, and reach out to a hospice agency for more information. Assessing your home's layout and equipment needs is also crucial. Remember, embracing hospice care is not a failure but the beginning of a new chapter in life, and there are experienced professionals available to support you through this process.

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Although Christmas is still days away, I am content and enjoying every moment. From wearing beautiful dresses to taking photos in front of different Christmas trees in the city of Glasgow to planning how to decorate our first Christmas tree, this holiday season is looking so good already.

Today, I will be traveling to meet up with my friend in Edinburgh to visit the Edinburgh Christmas Market and have some fun, but in the morning I have a dental appointment, which I will be telling you all about soon.

Christmas is a time to love, gift, be merry, and be happy. You survived the year, which is worth celebrating. I understand that the cold weather can sometimes be depressing, leading to seasonal depression, but don't worry. With these tips, you will get yourself into the Christmas spirit.

Last year, I struggled to feel the spirit of Christmas, but this year is different, which is why I decided to share these tips that will help rekindle the holiday spirit.



Put some Christmas decorations in your house.

This is a way of making you aware of the season and making your home feel like Christmas. If you typically purchase a green Christmas tree, consider switching to a white one this season. You can also have a blast designing your own inflatable and adorning your yard with different decorations. Christmas inflatables come in all shapes and sizes, from the classic Santa Claus and custom inflatable Christmas tree to more modern designs like the Nativity scene or a giant snow globe. Some people even choose to inflate animals or cartoon characters that represent the holiday spirit. No matter what you choose, setting up your own outdoor Christmas display is a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit. This will brighten your neighborhood and let you express your creativity.

Listen to Christmas music.

Play your favorite Christmas music. While cleaning or decorating your room, listen to upbeat Christmas music. Christmas music is such a special treat, and the majority of us listen to it just during this season! Absorb as much Christmas music as possible! It's a true mood booster!




I am all about glitz this holiday season! This is true because I am hyped up for the Christmas season. This red dress by Jarlo London made me the centre of attention at a holiday party.

There is no doubt that sequins, faux fur, a little black dress, dramatic dresses, tulle dresses, chiffon dresses, satin dresses, red dresses, and all the dresses with glitter are the best ways to look good at a holiday party. As soon as you put them on, they make a statement in the best way. Adding faux fur to your outfit will give it a bit of luxury. It makes you feel warm and fancy.

To finish off your holiday look, add glitter earrings, a shining bag, a glitter blelt, glitter nails, a glitter hair accessory, and make your hair look bright like a diamond. Add an abundance of glitter and glitz to your ensemble, for you have achieved success this year and must look your absolute best in celebration.

Party dresses under $10,000

 



 

Forex no deposit bonuses are incentives usually in monetary deposits offered by brokerages to new traders to enable them trade without fear of losing funds. While brokers provide bonuses to attract and keep aspiring traders, the traders garner market experience free of charge until they are ready for the live trading experience.

Just as these bonuses are the hidden gems of the financial world, this guide will unveil their secrets. Let's embark on a journey to understand "What is a Forex No Deposit Bonus?" and how it can benefit you.

Depositphotos

I. The Genesis of Forex No Deposit Bonuses:

Much like a magician conjuring a rabbit from a hat, brokers introduced these bonuses to entice traders into the world of forex trading with no minimum deposit. Essentially, it's a gift of free equity from brokers, tailored to help traders initiate their forex journey without the need for an initial deposit. Aspiring traders can harness these bonuses to accrue valuable experience and potentially earn real profits, all without having to invest their own money upfront.

II. How Forex No Deposit Bonuses Work

Getting a no-deposit bonus begins with signing up with a broker offering this promotion. While some only need your name and email, others may need your phone number or other means of identification for the verification process. You receive a specific amount of money credited to your trading account without making a deposit.

This bonus can vary from a few dollars to a significant amount, depending on the broker's terms. However, there are rules—you can't just walk away with the money. Usually, there are trading conditions to be met, such as a minimum trading volume or a specific duration.

III. The Pros and Cons of Forex No-Deposit Bonuses

Now, let's weigh the pros and cons of these intriguing bonuses:

Pros:

-Start without risk:

It's an awesome way to get your feet wet in forex trading without putting your own money in danger.

- Actual profits:

While you may not be able to withdraw the bonus, you are usually allowed to keep the profits.


- The learning curve:

It's a fantastic tool for acquiring real-world trading experience.


Cons:

- Withdrawal restrictions:

Meeting the terms of the broker's bonus withdrawal may be difficult.


- Limited funds:

Bonuses are often tiny and may not be adequate for serious trading.


- Eligibility criteria:

Brokers may set special limitations, and these bonuses are not available to everyone.
Wrapping Up


In the world of forex trading, no-deposit bonuses offer a unique opportunity for beginners to learn, practice, and potentially make real profits. However, they come with their own set of challenges, such as withdrawal restrictions and eligibility criteria. As a trader, the key lies in understanding how to leverage these bonuses effectively and knowing when to seek them out.
Do hangovers cause brain damage?

Ever wondered if those post-party hangovers do anything to our brains? Well, some scientists were curious too and dug into over 1,100 studies to find out. They shared their findings in a journal called Addiction on August 25, so let's break it down.

First off, they defined a hangover as the mental and physical aftermath you feel the day after a night of heavy drinking, once your blood alcohol level is close to zero. Basically, when the party's over, and you're no longer tipsy. After checking out 11 studies, the scientists concluded that during a hangover, your ability to focus takes a hit. Your short-term and long-term memory get a bit foggy too, especially when it comes to remembering stuff that happened during the hangover. They also found that something called "psychomotor speed" gets slowed down – that's how quickly your brain tells your body to move. So, doing things like driving might not be as sharp during a hangover.

Now, here's the big question: Can having hangovers from regular heavy drinking actually mess with your brain permanently? I tried to find studies on this, but no luck. Still, I'd say it's a good idea to be cautious during the holidays and not overdo it. Let's keep our brains in tip-top shape!

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Toddler formulas are costly, unnecessary, and potentially unhealthy.

Once babies reach the age of one, they no longer need infant formula as their nutritional needs can be met through solid foods. Cow's milk or fortified plant milk like soy milk can be perfectly suitable for them without the need for excessive consumption.

In a recent report by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) in 2023, it was found that toddler milks do not provide any additional benefits for healthy growth and development. It's understandable that some parents may feel hesitant to transition from formula to cow's milk, believing that formula is more nutritious or easier to digest. However, the marketing strategies used by formula companies frequently influence these beliefs.

Toddler formulas marketed as "follow-up formulas," "transition formulas," or "growing-up milks" are not medically necessary and are mainly designed to retain customers past the age of one. As the AAP emphasizes, some toddler formulas can actually be worse than cow's milk. Parents should be aware of the actual needs of older infants and toddlers and not let marketing claims influence them.

It's worth noting that specialized formulas for children over 12 months with specific medical conditions are not the focus of this discussion.

Toddler formulas are not subject to FDA regulation, unlike infant formulas. Infant formulas have strict nutritional requirements and are subject to regular inspections. On the other hand, toddler formulas are not required to prove their claims about nutritional benefits, leading to wide variation in their composition.

This lack of regulation is concerning because some toddler formulas can be unhealthy, with inadequate or excessive protein content and added sweeteners. These sweeteners can contribute to the development of a child's preference for sugary foods and potentially increase the risk of obesity. Moreover, toddler formulas are often more expensive than cow's milk, creating an unnecessary financial burden for families.

Instead of relying on toddler formulas, it is recommended to focus on the healthy diet groups for toddlers. Encourage a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein sources (such as meat, fish, beans, and nut butters), and dairy or dairy substitutes fortified with calcium and vitamin D. It is also important to limit added sugars and, after the age of two, reduce the consumption of unhealthy fats. By establishing healthy eating habits early on, we can set children on the path to a lifetime of good nutrition.

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