Take Bullying & Turn It Into Motivation Like Lily Harper

 Have you ever wanted to give a gift around the holidays that not only puts a smile on someone’s face but also gives back to local charities? 

I am so happy to introduce you to the amazing work done by an 11 year old entrepreneur! Lily Harper has created a line of products after being put through hell at her school by bullies. Her tragic story about bullying and being shoved down a flight of stairs is heartbreaking and relatable for so many young people. Lily has begun her amazing journey after her parents decided to homeschool her, following the incident. You can read her full story here. 

I was tortured by bullies at school growing up and can honestly say that I wish I had the supportive parents Lily has. I dropped out in grade 7 and never went back so kudos to Lily and her parents for creating a bright future for this young lady. I truly hope more parents will read your strong story and help their kids break free from bullies and begin a thriving future for their little ones as well. 

As a wonderful way to give back and provide for others while she is making her way to success, Lily has decided to give proceeds from her hot chocolate candles of 50% to Vancouver Family Services. Way to go kid! You are truly a ground mover and I hope people will read this story and help you and others this holiday season! 

Lily provided me with a beautiful smelling essential oil along with my candle as well as a cheerful hand written note that I will keep forever as a unique reminder that there is always a way out of a bad situation. Now that I am a mother of 3 I am always hearing about bullies and advocating for my kids to have an easier school experience. This handwritten note will remind me to keep standing up for them and give me the motivation to overpower negative thoughts and emotions. 

Thank you Lily!

This hot chocolate candle smells so sweet and luxurious I could smell it filling my kitchen when I popped the lid off. The warm fuzzy feeling that this scent provides is subtle, delicate, and not over powering. What an amazing way to warm some hearts this year with a soy candle with all natural wooden wick that will light up the twinkle and spark joy this Christmas! Lily has a whole line of self care products if you want to get more than that and support this amazing young woman! 

Caring Neighbours hopes to inspire the Lower Mainland and its surrounding communities to Give the Gift of Brighter Tomorrows by encouraging members to take action today and pledge a gift to their neighbours in need. With a goal of raising $250,000, FSGV has partnered with World of LLA to create an exclusive Hot Chocolate Candle that sees 50% of proceeds donated in support of FSGV and the Caring Neighbours campaign.

FSGV x World of LLA Collaboration Candle Fast Facts:

• The Hot Chocolate Candle launches on November 1st

• Available for purchase online until December 31st, 2024

• 50% of proceeds are in support of FSGV and the Caring Neighbours campaign

• A sweet, warm, comforting scent - smells just like a decadent hot chocolate with marshmallows on top

• 100% renewable soy wax

• Wooden wick

• Vegan, non-toxic, phthalate-free, paraben-free fragrances

• Comes in two different sizes: 4oz (burn time: 15-20 hours) and 8oz (burn time: 35-45 hours)

• Price: 4oz - $15CAD, 8oz- $25CAD

• Offers world-wide shipping

Easing Tooth Abscess Pain: Immediate Relief Strategies

Image Source

Table of Contents:

• Introduction to Tooth Abscess Pain
• Identifying Symptoms of a Tooth Abscess
• Immediate Home Remedies for Pain Relief
• Over-the-Counter and Prescription Options
• The Importance of Dental Consultation
• Preventing Tooth Abscesses
• Long-Term Dental Health Tips
• Conclusion

Introduction to Tooth Abscess Pain

Tooth abscess pain is a troubling experience that can significantly disrupt daily life. Often arising from an infection at the root of a tooth, it demands prompt attention to alleviate discomfort. Understanding how to achieve rapid tooth pain relief is essential, not only for comfort but also for preventing further complications. This type of pain can severely impact daily activities, work productivity, and overall quality of life, making it crucial to know how to handle it promptly.

Recognizing the symptoms early and applying effective strategies, whether through home remedies or professional care, can offer a quick respite. With its intense throbbing and persistent discomfort, tooth abscess pain often signals a deeper issue that needs addressing. By understanding the underlying causes, individuals can better prepare to tackle the discomfort and prevent escalation into more serious dental or health complications. Managing this pain allows for maintaining a semblance of normalcy while awaiting professional dental care.

Identifying Symptoms of a Tooth Abscess

A tooth abscess often marks a collection of symptoms. These include swelling in the gums, severe throbbing pain, and sometimes even fever or chills. Being aware of these signs can aid in seeking timely treatment. Often, the pain can spread to the ear, jaw, or neck, indicating that immediate attention is necessary. The presence of pus, a bitter taste, or difficulty swallowing can further confirm the likelihood of an abscess.

Understanding and identifying these symptoms are crucial steps in effectively combating the abscess. Differentiating this pain from other dental issues helps make the right decisions about seeking medical or dental intervention. Prompt recognition can lead to faster relief, preventing more severe complications such as dental cysts or systemic infections. Awareness empowers patients, allowing them to act swiftly to preserve their oral and overall health.

Consulting a dentist, especially a cosmetic dentist, can provide specialized care and treatment for tooth abscesses. Cosmetic dentists are trained to address various dental issues, including infections, and can recommend appropriate treatments, such as root canals or extractions.

Immediate Home Remedies for Pain Relief

Several home remedies can provide welcome relief from tooth abscess pain. A simple saltwater rinse is recommended for its ability to clean the mouth and minimize bacterial proliferation. Salt helps reduce discomfort and draws out fluids from the infected area, aiding in quicker recovery. Holding a cold compress against your cheek can also help reduce swelling and numb the pain sensation, offering temporary relief from the intense throbbing.

Additionally, clove oil, known for its natural antiseptic properties, can be applied directly to the swollen area for relief. Owing to its antibacterial properties, garlic paste is another age-old remedy. However, while these solutions provide temporary relief, they are no substitute for the dentist's comprehensive care. Being proactive with these remedies can help manage pain effectively until professional help is accessible.

Over-the-Counter and Prescription Options

For some, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen offer effective ways to manage pain and reduce inflammation. These medications target the pain directly, often providing significant relief from the throbbing and discomfort associated with an abscess. A dentist may prescribe antibiotics to address the underlying infection. According to WebMD, these medications can provide significant pain relief and help curb the spread of infection. However, reliant management requires consultation with a healthcare professional to ensure that the pain is not just masked but the root cause is treated.

While these medications can offer immediate relief, it's vital to understand their role in a larger treatment plan. They serve as a bridge to minimize discomfort while awaiting a more permanent solution from a dental professional. Patients should be aware of potential side effects and consult a doctor if they have concerns or underlying health conditions that may impact medication use. Over-the-counter solutions are essential to managing abscess pain effectively but should be used under guidance.

The Importance of Dental Consultation

Dental consultation is crucial when dealing with a tooth abscess. Professional assessment and treatment ensure that the infection does not become more severe. Dentists can provide tailored treatments that effectively tackle the abscess. As the American Dental Association recommends, routine dental visits play a pivotal role in treatment and prevention, ensuring oral health remains intact.

Besides addressing the immediate concern, dental consultations can reveal underlying issues contributing to frequent abscesses. With advanced diagnostic tools, dentists can offer comprehensive care, including procedures such as root canals or surgical intervention if needed. Moreover, a dentist's expertise in managing such infections can lead to faster recovery times and prevent recurrence, highlighting the necessity of professional dental care in controlling and preventing tooth abscesses.

Preventing Tooth Abscesses

Preventing tooth abscesses revolves around maintaining stringent oral hygiene. Brushing twice daily and regular flossing significantly diminish the risk of infections leading to abscesses. Additionally, using an antibacterial mouthwash can help keep harmful bacteria in check, offering further defense. Routine dental check-ups allow for early detection of potential issues, ensuring prompt intervention before they develop into more significant problems.

The diet also plays a role in prevention. Limited intake of sugary foods and beverages can reduce the risk of dental cavities, which often are precursors to abscesses. Hydration, through plenty of water intake, helps maintain saliva production, which is crucial for neutralizing acids and washing away bacteria. Preventing abscesses is an effort that encompasses lifestyle and awareness, promoting overall oral health and wellness.

Long-Term Dental Health Tips

Long-term dental health isn't merely about avoiding abscesses; it's about promoting the overall health of your mouth. Commitment to regular dental check-ups, a balanced diet low in sugary foods, and appropriate hydration are key. Regular dental visits can provide insights into emerging issues, allowing for timely intervention and preventive treatments to maintain oral health. These checks also reinforce the habit of dental hygiene, supporting overall wellness.

Additionally, learning to manage stress and avoiding habits such as teeth grinding can protect your dental health. Your lifestyle choices significantly influence oral health. By embracing a comprehensive approach to dental care, individuals protect themselves from abscesses and enhance their quality of life. These habits foster a healthier oral environment, where issues are less likely to arise.

Conclusion

Addressing tooth abscess pain swiftly and effectively hinges on immediate at-home care and professional treatment. By recognizing symptoms early and applying appropriate strategies, individuals can significantly alleviate pain and improve their dental health outcomes. Remember, the best treatment is prevention, so embrace daily oral care and regular dental consultations as part of your routine. Consistency in these practices ensures that you are not only dealing with immediate concerns but are also fortifying your defenses against future oral health challenges.

Skills that will Help you to Get Better at Money Management

 If you feel as though you’re getting fed up with your finances, then now is the time for you to do something about that. It’s easy for you to get organized when you know what steps to take, and if you follow this guide, you will find it easier than ever to make the right improvements.

Organization

If you are fed up with how to manage money and want to make a change then you have already taken a positive step forward. You have acknowledged that there is a lot of room for improvement and that you can also begin to get more organized. With that said, you do need to start paying more attention to your money if you want to start taking more control of it. Getting organized involves tracking your spending and keeping all of your receipts if you can. You also need to try and keep your bills in one place. Getting your notebooks and converting them to a digital format will help too, as you can easily track this as time goes on and create a digital budget. This is ideal as it means you can monitor everything with ease.

Source: Pexels

Goal Setting 

You also need to take the time to set some goals if you can. The kind of goals you set will largely depend on what your financial priorities are. It may be that you need to decide what is important to you right now and that you also need to take the time to figure out how much you need to put away every month. If you can do this then you can then figure out how you are going to pay off your debts or your loans. If you don’t see a way out of your situation then it may be that you need to seek the help of a debt relief service. This is a good way for you to relieve pressure on your family while ensuring that you are taking positive steps forward to deal with the situation you’re in right now.

Budgeting 

A budget can play a huge role when it comes to improving money management. When you have a budget, you will soon find that you have more control over your money and that you can also find it easier to reach your financial goals. One thing to take note of is that managing a budget is easier than you might think. All you have to do is account for all of the money you have coming in and then delegate accordingly. The money you have left over can then be used to spend on things you need. Although making a budget is easy, sticking to it might not be as simple, but apps are your friend here. Use apps to track your spending as mentioned above, and set up warnings on your phone so when you do go over, you’re able to pull back and intervene before things get dire.

How to Prevent Future Maintenance Expenses For Your Home

 

Understanding the Importance of Regular Inspections

Maintaining your home effectively begins with regular inspections. Not only do these inspections help identify potential problems before they escalate, but they also offer peace of mind. According to a survey by the home experts at Porch, a significant 86% of homeowners reported that their home inspector uncovered at least one issue.

To ensure your home inspection is thorough, hire a professional who is well-versed in the nuances of residential structures. A skilled inspector can often point out problems that may be invisible to an untrained eye. These regular checks aren't just about maintaining structural integrity but also about saving money in the long run by preempting costly repairs.

After an inspection, take immediate action on the expert's recommendations. Some issues might seem minor at the moment but can develop into significant problems if left unresolved. By addressing these concerns promptly, you can prevent small issues from morphing into financially draining repairs.

Prioritizing Structural Integrity

One primary focus for preventing future maintenance costs is safeguarding your home's structural integrity. Given that a quarter of homeowners in the United States are likely to face structural issues, it's essential to pay attention to the foundation and other critical areas. According to Clever, approximately 25% of people in the United States will encounter structural issues with their homes at some point.

Foundational problems often begin with unnoticed cracks or slight shifts caused by various environmental factors. Routine inspections and immediate repair of such cracks can prevent severe damage and save money in potential future repair costs. It's not just about reacting to issues but being proactive in ensuring structural soundness.

In addition to foundation work, consider other structures like walls, roofing, and load-bearing beams. These elements, if compromised, could lead to significant household disruptions and expensive repairs. Preventative maintenance in these areas is another step towards a well-guarded home and efficiency in cost management.

Proper Window Maintenance

Windows are an integral part of home maintenance since they contribute significantly to energy efficiency and curb appeal. It is noted by Forbes that windows comprise roughly 15% of the exterior wall space in residential homes. This percentage highlights the need for maintaining windows to prevent air leaks and moisture buildup.

Ensure that your window seals are intact and repair any damages promptly to maintain energy efficiency within your home. Not only do well-maintained windows reduce heating and cooling costs, but they also prolong the lifespan of the structure itself. This facet of home care translates directly into saving money on energy bills while maintaining property value.

Additionally, regular cleaning and inspection of window frames and glass can preclude more serious issues like rot or mold growth. Frames must be checked for signs of moisture ingress which can be a precursor to rot. By keeping windows in top shape, not only are you maintaining aesthetic value but also ensuring their long-term functionality without unnecessary extra costs.

The Role of Routine Maintenance

Routine maintenance of various home systems plays a critical role in preventing sudden and extensive repairs. This encompasses HVAC systems, plumbing, and electrical systems—all essential components that keep the home running smoothly. Routine checks and timely repairs of these systems can prevent substantial breakdowns and add to the longevity of the equipment.

For HVAC, replace or clean air filters regularly, and schedule yearly professional maintenance. This practice ensures the system is functioning optimally, reduces unexpected malfunctions, and helps lower annual utility bills. These preventative steps are invaluable in maintaining comfort and efficiency in the household all year round.

Similarly, for plumbing systems, regularly checking for leaks or clogs can prevent water damage that might lead to costly repairs. Making small repairs as needed can significantly impact long-term maintenance expenses. Being vigilant and taking measured, routine steps supports a stable home environment and helps save money over time.

Implementing Preventative Measures

Preventative measures are the cornerstone of reducing future home maintenance expenses. This involves not just regular inspections and maintenance activities but also upgrading or improving home components when necessary. Consistent vigilance in-home care has been shown to mitigate unexpected and often more expensive repairs.

Using quality materials and professional services for any home upgrades ensures durability and a longer lifespan, thus preventing frequent repairs. These investments, though sometimes substantial initially, safeguard the home and result in long-term savings. Focusing on quality over cost is a critical mindset when planning home improvements.

Finally, educating oneself on common home maintenance issues can assist in personal assessments and decision-making. Being informed about potential problems and solutions provides homeowners the confidence to handle minor repairs effectively, reducing dependency on professional services for simple issues. This proactive approach inherently saves both time and money.

How To Protect Your Credit Score During a Divorce

 

It’s easy to get lost in the process of divorce and overlook the financial details. Your credit score is the last thing on your mind, but it’s still important to think about. Protecting your credit score during a divorce can maintain financial health and provide you with a stable future. Learn how you can do this with our essential steps below.

Navigating Mom Guilt and the Struggles of Parenting in the Digital Age

I miss when my kids were small and loved me no matter what. Parenting has become such a headache with technology the fight is just exhausting.

Mom guilt is a weight many mothers carry, a constant companion on the journey of raising children. It stems from the love and high expectations we have for ourselves as parents. When challenges arise—like dealing with disrespectful behavior from your child—it can feel overwhelming. Lately, I have noticed that Troy, our youngest, has been acting out. Troy has autism so his behaviour is always a bit challenging from time to time. The disrespect stings, and in moments of frustration, you may find yourself reacting in ways that leave you feeling guilty afterward. I am exhausted after working with kids all day and it is beginning to show in my parenting, being a burnt out mom is not fun.

In today’s digital world, technology and online games often add another layer of stress to parenting. The allure of screens can turn even the most polite child into someone unrecognizable at times. It’s not uncommon to feel like technology is pulling families apart, creating tension instead of fostering connection. But with some deliberate strategies, it’s possible to cut back on electronics, nurture healthier habits, and create a more positive family dynamic. It is so easy to just allow them to sit and stare into the void of the video game world and give you some peace but now it is becoming a problem.

Understanding Mom Guilt

Mom guilt is often fueled by a desire to be everything to everyone in your family. But it’s important to remember that no one is a perfect parent—and children, like adults, have difficult moments. Feeling guilty when I get upset with Troy is natural, but it’s also an opportunity for reflection and growth. What matters most is how I choose to respond and move forward. I need to start making it a priority to spend time with him away from screens. Trying to navigate parenting is challenging for everyone but there has to be ways to make it easier and enjoyable for all of us. 

Why Technology Can Contribute to Disrespect

Technology, while a valuable tool, can create challenges in parenting. Excessive screen time and online gaming may:

• Impact emotional regulation: Games with high-intensity stimulation can lead to mood swings and shorter tempers.

• Create social disconnect: Too much screen time can interfere with a child’s ability to interact respectfully and empathetically with others.

• Reduce family bonding: When screens dominate free time, opportunities for connection and communication shrink.

If you’re feeling like screens are turning your kids into “monsters,” it’s time to make a change. Reducing reliance on technology can help improve respect and strengthen family bonds.

Strategies to Cut Back on Electronics and Foster Respect

Here’s how to set healthier boundaries around screen time and build a more harmonious household:

1. Establish Screen-Free Zones

Make certain areas of the home, such as the dinner table or bedrooms, completely screen-free. This encourages face-to-face interactions and creates opportunities for meaningful conversations.

2. Create a Family Media Plan

Work together as a family to set guidelines for when and how screens can be used. For example, no gaming before homework is finished, or limiting screen time to an hour or two daily.

3. Introduce Offline Activities

Replace gaming time with engaging offline activities, such as board games, reading, or creative projects. Find something that Troy enjoys that doesn’t involve a screen.

4. Model Balanced Technology Use

Children often imitate their parents. If you want Troy to cut back on screens, show him what that looks like by setting your own limits and spending time on non-digital activities.

5. Encourage Outdoor Play

Plan outdoor family activities like hiking, playing sports, or simply going to the park. Physical activity can improve mood and behaviour while reducing the allure of screens.

6. Communicate About Respect

Have a calm conversation with Troy about his behavior. Let him know how his words and actions affect you and the family. Encourage him to express himself respectfully and brainstorm ways to do so together.

7. Use Technology as a Privilege

Treat screen time as a reward rather than a given. Tie it to positive behaviour or responsibilities, such as completing chores or showing respect.

8. Unplug Together

Schedule regular family nights where everyone unplugs and spends quality time together. This could involve cooking a meal, watching a movie, or simply talking.

9. Seek Professional Guidance

If disrespectful behavior persists, it may be helpful to consult a family counselor or child psychologist. They can offer tools to address underlying issues and improve communication.

10. Practice Self-Compassion

Finally, remember to be kind to yourself. Parenting is hard work, and you’re doing your best. Guilt can be a powerful emotion, but it can also motivate you to take steps toward a happier, healthier family dynamic.

Moving Forward

It’s okay to feel upset when Troy’s behavior is challenging, and it’s okay to feel guilty afterward—it shows that I care deeply. By taking steps to reduce screen time and nurture respect in your home, I plan on setting the stage for a stronger, more connected family. The key is to approach these changes with patience and consistency. I know I’m not alone in this journey, and every small step I take is a step in the right direction.