<br /> <br /> <span style='display:none' class='DO NOT REMOVE - THIS CATEGORY CODE WILL BE HIDDEN - IT IS NEEDED TO BE FOUND BY CATEGORY AND ONE-CLICK SEARCH'>Category: Photography - in Blogs</span>

(NewsUSA) - As warm weather approaches, so does wedding season, and family-focused entertainment network UP TV heads down the aisle with a pair of new, unscripted series set to debut this summer.<br /> <br /> The series, "Our Wedding Story," takes viewers inside the relationships between the brides and grooms. With exceptional and cinematic storytelling, viewers will get to live each couple's love story - from the moment they met to the walk down the aisle.<br /> <br /> In "Crazy Beautiful Weddings," viewers go behind the scenes with busy wedding planner Lynzie Kent. Wedding planning is an art and a science, and Ms. Kent brings her style and people skills as she navigates diverse tastes, the couples' visions and various venues, to create one-of-a-kind celebrations for her clients that will make the big day something to remember.<br /> <br /> "On UP, our viewers have seen the families in our beloved series exploring new relationships, planning weddings and having kids," Amy Winter, executive vice present and general manager of UP TV, says in a statement announcing the shows.<br /> <br /> "By greenlighting new series that focus on those specific life moments, we invite our audience to experience all of the joy and excitement that many different couples are going through as they share their personal journeys of life's biggest moments," she says.<br /> <br /> The pair of wedding programs complement new episodes of two existing shows that highlight another one of life's biggest moments - the journey to parenthood.<br /> <br /> This spring, UP premieres new episodes of its groundbreaking series, "Expecting," which follows expectant parents as they prepare for a new addition to the family. With no producers or camera crews, it is the first show that asks couples to turn the lens on themselves, to give the audience a peek into one of life's most exciting and personal journeys - welcoming a child.<br /> <br /> Also premiering in April is "One Born Every Minute." The series takes viewers inside a hospital maternity unit to experience the joy, excitement and drama as babies are delivered.<br /> <br /> UP is available on DIRECTV, DISH, Verizon Fios, AT&T U-verse, Xfinity and local cable. For more information about the family-friendly programming and where you can find the channel, go to UPtv.com.<br /> <br /> Ref: Art - in Blogs

*I Will Keep Pushing Until I Push Through*<br /> <br /> I'll keep pushing, until I push through. Though the storms are fierce and roughly threatening, I will keep pushing. Though I might be uncertain in the journey and don't know how far I've gone and how much distance is left for me, I'll keep pushing. Though there's no one there to lean on and no support to beckon, I'll keep pushing. Though my strength is becoming weaker, and I cannot find the courage to continue, yet I'll keep pushing. Though the walls seem to be cracking and are about to collapse on me, with so much unseen danger, I'll keep pushing. Though I feel deserted, and find no one to believe in my dreams or help build with me, I'll keep pushing. Though the challenges may overwhelm me, and a whisper to quit surges its way to my heart, I'll keep pushing. <br /> <br /> <br /> Though the darkness tries to consume me, and the light seems too far away, I'll keep pushing. Though every step feels like a struggle, and every breath is a battle, I'll keep pushing. Though the weight of my doubts and fears threatens to crush me, I'll keep pushing. Though the path ahead is shrouded in uncertainty, and the future seems unclear, I'll keep pushing. Though I'm tired, worn out, and exhausted, I'll keep pushing. Though the voices of negativity echo in my mind, telling me I'm not good enough, I'll keep pushing.<br /> <br /> For every step forward, I'll take two more. For every obstacle, I'll find a way around it. For every setback, I'll learn and grow stronger. I'll keep pushing, not because I'm fearless, but because I'm brave. Not because I'm perfect, but because I'm persistent. Not because I have all the answers, but because I'm willing to learn.<br /> <br /> I'll keep pushing, until I reach the other side. Until I emerge stronger, wiser, and more resilient. Until I've achieved my dreams, and fulfilled my purpose. I'll keep pushing, until I've pushed through.<br /> <br /> So, I'll take a deep breath, square my shoulders, and keep moving forward. I'll face my fears, and overcome my doubts. I'll push through the pain, and rise above the struggles. I'll keep pushing, until I've reached the pinnacle of success. And when I finally emerge victorious, I'll look back on the journey, and smile. I'll smile at the struggles, and the setbacks. I'll smile at the doubts, and the fears. For I will have pushed through, and come out stronger on the other side.<br /> <br /> I keep pushing, for necessity is laid on me to push until I push through for the millions of lives that are connected to my breakthrough.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <span style='display:none' class='DO NOT REMOVE - THIS CATEGORY CODE WILL BE HIDDEN - IT IS NEEDED TO BE FOUND BY CATEGORY AND ONE-CLICK SEARCH'>Category: Motivation - in Blogs</span>

The Importance of Breakfast<br /> <br /> In today's fast-paced world, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can often feel like a daunting task. However, one of the simplest yet most impactful habits you can adopt is starting your day with a nutritious breakfast. This small act not only sets a positive tone for the rest of your day but also provides numerous health benefits that contribute to your overall well-being.<br /> <br /> Why Breakfast Matters<br /> Breakfast is rightly hailed as the most important meal of the day for several reasons. After a night of fasting, your body needs essential nutrients to replenish its energy reserves and kick-start your metabolism. A balanced breakfast fuels your body and mind, improving concentration, mood, and productivity throughout the day. Research consistently shows that people who eat breakfast are more likely to maintain a healthy weight and make better food choices later in the day.<br /> <br /> Components of a Healthy Breakfast<br /> A healthy breakfast should include a variety of nutrients to ensure optimal functioning:<br /> <br /> Complex Carbohydrates: Whole grains like oats, whole wheat bread, or quinoa provide sustained energy and fiber, which aids digestion.<br /> <br /> Protein: Eggs, yogurt, nuts, or lean meats offer essential amino acids that help repair and build tissues, support immune function, and keep you feeling full longer.<br /> <br /> Healthy Fats: Avocado, nuts, seeds, and olive oil provide essential fatty acids that support brain function and heart health.<br /> <br /> Fruits and Vegetables: These are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants crucial for overall health and disease prevention.<br /> <br /> Tips for a Balanced Breakfast<br /> Plan Ahead: Prepare breakfast items the night before to save time in the morning.<br /> <br /> Avoid Sugary Foods: Opt for whole fruits instead of fruit juices or sugary cereals to avoid spikes in blood sugar levels.<br /> <br /> Hydrate: Start your day with a glass of water to hydrate your body after hours of sleep.<br /> <br /> Listen to Your Body: Eat when you feel hungry, and pay attention to portion sizes to avoid overeating.<br /> <br /> Incorporating Breakfast into Your Routine<br /> If you find it challenging to eat breakfast due to time constraints or lack of appetite in the morning, start with small, manageable portions. Smoothies packed with fruits, vegetables, and protein are convenient options for those on the go. Alternatively, try incorporating breakfast foods into your mid-morning snack, such as yogurt with granola or a piece of whole fruit.<br /> <br /> Conclusion<br /> By making breakfast a priority in your daily routine, you not only enhance your physical health but also boost your mental and emotional well-being. Remember, a healthy lifestyle is built on consistent habits, and breakfast is a cornerstone that sets the tone for the rest of your day. Embrace this simple yet powerful practice, and watch as it transforms your energy levels, focus, and overall quality of life. <span style='display:none' class='DO NOT REMOVE - THIS CATEGORY CODE WILL BE HIDDEN - IT IS NEEDED TO BE FOUND BY CATEGORY AND ONE-CLICK SEARCH'>Category: Health - in Blogs</span>

Indonesia is home to hundreds of volcanic craters, but few can match the extraordinary beauty and unique phenomena of Ijen Crater. Located in East Java, this remarkable geological wonder stands out as one of the largest and most captivating volcanic craters in the archipelago, drawing visitors from around the world with its stunning natural spectacle.<br /> <br /><br />A Breathtaking Natural Panorama<br /><br />Ijen Crater offers visitors an unforgettable visual experience with its mesmerizing turquoise-colored acidic lake. From the rim of the crater, travelers can witness the striking contrast between the brilliant blue waters and the surrounding volcanic landscape. The panoramic views from the crater's edge provide countless opportunities for photography, making it a favorite destination for nature photographers and adventure enthusiasts alike.<br /><br /><br />The Famous Tree Viewpoint<br /><br />One of the most iconic spots at Ijen Crater is the famous tree viewpoint located at the mountain's summit. This particular vantage point has gained significant popularity on social media platforms, where visitors capture stunning photographs with the solitary tree framing the crater's magnificent backdrop. The silhouette of this tree against the volcanic scenery has become a signature image representing the beauty of Ijen Crater.<br /><br /><br />The Rare Blue Fire Phenomenon<br /><br />What truly sets Ijen Crater apart from other volcanic destinations worldwide is its extraordinary blue fire phenomenon. This rare natural occurrence can only be witnessed in two locations globally, making Ijen Crater an exceptionally unique destination. The blue flames are created by the combustion of sulfuric gases that emerge from the crater at extremely high temperatures.<br />This spectacular phenomenon is exclusively visible during nighttime hours, as the blue flames are too faint to be seen during daylight. Visitors who wish to witness this natural wonder must embark on a challenging pre-dawn hike to reach the crater rim before sunrise. The ethereal blue glow dancing across the crater floor creates an otherworldly atmosphere that leaves observers in awe.<br /><br /><br />A Must-Visit Destination<br /><br />Ijen Crater represents one of Indonesia's most remarkable natural treasures, combining stunning visual beauty with rare geological phenomena. Whether you're drawn by the spectacular crater views, the famous tree photography spot, or the once-in-a-lifetime blue fire experience, Ijen Crater offers an adventure that will create lasting memories.<br /><br /><br />For those seeking an extraordinary natural spectacle that showcases the raw power and beauty of Indonesia's volcanic landscape, Ijen Crater stands as an unmissable destination that perfectly embodies the country's diverse and magnificent natural heritage.

Why do people put pressure on others to be themselves then get mad when they do just that? What's meant by "be yourself" if it's not meant to be something to encourage others to be more genuine rather than pretending to socialize the same ways as everyone else? <br /> <br /> Every time I'm told to be myself, I genuinely don't know what's expected of me. Do people want me to fit in with normal behaviors? If that's the meaning, then don't tell me to be myself, because I'm nothing close to normal.<br /> <br /> Me being myself is me explaining that I read Atlas Shrugged because of the fact most of the plot revolves around saving train companies from collapsing under the financial ruin of the country, not because of the commentary on Communism being bad, because I already knew that it didn't work, so I didn't need the politics of it. <br /> <br /> Me being myself is rambling about how the Marvel Cinematic Universe and the Doctor Who Universe makes sense together because they both have moments of time travel, the Stark Tower from the MCU got reused as UNIT Headquarters in Doctor Who, and they'd all get along if they met because they're fighting to save reality day in and day out. There's more in-depth reasons, but I'll spare the details for now. <br /> <br /> Me being myself is me being goofy and nerdy, not fitting in to a social standard that doesn't make sense to me. If I wanted to know if the weather was nice, I wouldn't ask someone who has a different perspective on what nice weather is, as I'm the odd one to prefer rain over sun, I'll just look out a window. <br /> <br /> All of that to say I don't understand why people say to just be myself then get upset if I'm too nerdy for them. If you ask for it, don't be surprised and angry that you got it.<br /> <br /> <span style='display:none' class='DO NOT REMOVE - THIS CATEGORY CODE WILL BE HIDDEN - IT IS NEEDED TO BE FOUND BY CATEGORY AND ONE-CLICK SEARCH'>Category: Discussion - in Blogs</span><br /> <br /> <span style='display:none' class='DO NOT REMOVE - THIS CATEGORY CODE WILL BE HIDDEN - IT IS NEEDED TO BE FOUND BY CATEGORY AND ONE-CLICK SEARCH'>Category: Discussion - in Blogs</span>

(NewsUSA) - Janie Bryant, the Emmy Award-winning costume designer for AMC TV's "Mad Men," knows what it takes to make clothes look great.<br /> <br /> Not only does she contribute to the visual representation of the entire cast, she brings a 1960s glamour to the period show that makes real people scour vintage shops to look like Joan Holloway and Don Draper.<br /> <br /> Sure, audiences love the characters and their drama, but the beautifully authentic wardrobe stole the spotlight from the start. In her role, Bryant sketches, designs and fits the costumes for each character, which includes custom-made items and rebuilt vintage gems.<br /> <br /> "One thing I've always been passionate about is how important presentation is to having great style. Looking pressed and polished is often just as important as what you're actually wearing," says Bryant, which explains why she released a fabric care guide of useful clothing advice.<br /> <br /> "The best way to pull off that look is to know how to take great care of your clothing. [The Mad Men] era is all about being wrinkle-free and permanently pressed."<br /> <br /> Take a look at some of Bryant's fabric care advice:<br /> <br /> * Some fabrics are vulnerable to water spotting -- like acetate, silk and suede -- so be careful when applying perfume or body spray. Delicate garments like these tend to require dry cleaning, or hand-washing, and low-heat settings.<br /> <br /> * Beware of "pilly" clothing that looks worn out, such as nylon and acrylic. If fabric is susceptible to pills, it's best to launder, dry and iron at low heat. You may consider laying these items out to dry, especially sweaters.<br /> <br /> * Although cotton remains the world's most popular fabric, it is prone to wrinkling. The majority of cotton clothing can be machine-washed, but items with embellishments or accents should be turned inside out or put in a delicates bag.<br /> <br /> * If wrinkles attack, use a fail-safe. Bryant trusts Downy Wrinkle Releaser so much that she advises you to have a bottle at home, in the office and in any overnight bag. Just spritz clothing, shake and gently pull to release stubborn kinks.<br /> <br /> "On or off the set, the clothes that I work with and wear always need to look their best," Bryant says. "Not only does Downy Wrinkle Releaser work well on the vintage fabrics I work with during the day, but all the modern fabrics found in stores today. It's a must-have for people who need to look neat and pressed and those who need to be out the door in a flash."<br /> <br /> For more information, visit www.downywrinklereleaser.com. <br /> <br /> Ref: Fashion Men - in Blogs

(NewsUSA) - Sponsored by GAF - It's time to stop thinking of Millennials as totally uninterested in owning anything just because they were early adopters of Uber.<br /> <br /> The newly released U.S. home ownership rate rose in 2017 for the first time in 13 years - it now stands at 64.2 percent - driven mainly by a shift towards owning over renting by the under-age 35 crowd who'd been wary of committing for both financial and personal reasons.<br /> <br /> "This is happening because young households are buying homes. Full stop," Ralph McLaughlin, chief economist at home listings provider Trulia, told the Wall Street Journal.<br /> <br /> They're not the only purchasers, of course. Which means if you're looking to sell your house now or in the not too distant future, you might want to check out this generational roadmap to four upgrades experts say are worth it to help attract potential buyers.<br /> <br /> * Cross-generational: a new steel door. The only thing that beat it on Remodeling magazine's annual Cost vs. Value Report for 2017 was loose-fill attic insulation, but this project - with a 90.7% return on investment - speaks directly to the report's main takeaway: "Curb appeal projects, by and large, generated higher returns on investment than work done inside the home."<br /> <br /> Plus, as far as Millennials go, while their ideal interiors may differ from older generations - for example, they prefer open floor plans and hardwood floors - Architectural Digest says they're still into "traditional exteriors."<br /> <br /> * Millennials: smart-home tech. Yes, there are Boomers and Generation Xers who are super tech savvy, but Millennials especially crave homes that allow them to control their heating, air-conditioning, home security, and lighting systems from their phones.<br /> <br /> "They want to use their brains for other things, not for remembering whether they adjusted the heat or closed the garage door," Angie's List stressed.<br /> <br /> * Cross-generational: a new roof. It's the ultimate curb appeal enhancer and a perennial Remodeling magazine A-lister, with Credit.com having observed that "buyers pay a premium for one already in place."<br /> <br /> So if the first thing prospects notice even before exiting their cars looks like something out of "Twister," you've got a problem.<br /> <br /> "It's a huge turn-off," said Patsy O'Neill, a sales associate with Sotheby's in Montclair, New Jersey, "and makes buyers of all ages predisposed to find even more things they don't like."<br /> <br /> If your roof does need replacing, those particularly interested in targeting Millennials might want to consider the very affordable Sienna line of diamond-shaped shingles from GAF (gaf.com), North America's largest roofing manufacturer, since they capture that generation's sensibilities.<br /> <br /> "They pick up on key Millennial style trends of natural, clean materials, clean lines, and the integration of artistic elements," said Leslie Franklin, executive director of residential marketing at GAF.<br /> <br /> * Millennials: all-new appliances. Realtors will tell you that major kitchen (and bath) upgrades aren't generally worth their high costs, in terms of return on investment, since prospective buyers' tastes can clash with yours.<br /> <br /> However, Millennials do love, love, love all-new stainless steel appliances. So much so that what RealtyTimes.com called "an astonishing majority of 75 percent" of respondents in a recent survey chose to spend their hypothetical home buying budgets on them.<br /> <br /> Ref: Gardens - in Blogs

(NewsUSA) - More businesses and countries worldwide are embracing digital payments as a way to make e-commerce more efficient and create a smoother transaction experience for consumers.<br /> <br /> Digital wallets, such as uBUCK, offer a dollar-backed stable token built on Waves blockchain technology, one of the fastest blockchains available. uBUCK's technology allows for the management of both digital and traditional currency, and both online and offline purchasing power.<br /> <br /> "Piloted by an all-star management team, uBUCK is looking beyond carving out a niche to become a disruptive player in this ever-changing payments industry," according to the company's website.<br /> <br /> The uBUCK digital wallet allows for instant transfers of funds, and unlike some digital wallets, uBUCK is not limited to the United States. Transfers can occur globally, with no transfer fees and no cost to the end user.<br /> <br /> The elimination of transfer fees is one of uBUCK's strongest selling points, as it is an option for those who don't have traditional bank accounts, such as migrant workers looking to send money home, or for anyone else, such as parents sending money to kids at college who want to avoid the additional fees associated with some financial transfers.<br /> <br /> Users of uBUCK can transfer funds, make online purchases, or withdraw cash at an ATM, although reports on digital wallet use suggest that the expanded technology may ultimately replace the need for bank branches and ATMs.<br /> <br /> Sending money with uBUCK is a simple, four-step process:<br /> <br /> * Buy the voucher. Users download the uBUCK app and purchase a voucher.<br /> <br /> * Buy uBUCK cash. Users redeem a PIN to purchase uBUCK cash.<br /> <br /> * Select recipient. Users without a uBUCK account will be invited to the app via email.<br /> <br /> * Send payment. Users can then enter the payment amount, send, and confirm.<br /> <br /> "Our mission is to put honesty, transparency, and trust back into software," according to Ashik Karim, CEO of LiteLink Technologies, the parent company of uBUCK Technologies. LiteLink was recently featured in a Forbes magazine article, "10 Blockchain Companies to Watch in 2019."<br /> <br /> LiteLink is publicly traded on the Canadian Securities Exchange and OTC Markets. Their symbols are CSE:LLT and OTC:LLNKF.<br /> <br /> Ref: Apps - in Blogs