The world of cannabis is certainly complicated for a newbie, with all sorts of variations to experiment with. In this article, our focus will not just be on non-psychoactive cannabidiol (CBD) products, but those that are made from the hemp plant. These are legal in all 50 US states, unlike cannabis-derived CBD products which can only be purchased by the public in states that have enacted recreational legislation.

An introduction to hemp-based CBD

Hemp is a plant from the cannabis family, but it has a markedly different cannabinoid profile to the strains that we are most familiar with. Hemp contains very low concentrations of THC, but more substantial amounts of CBD – products, therefore, only have therapeutic and dietary uses, and cannot be recreationally abused. When the Farm Bill was passed in the United States in 2014, allowing the sale of hemp products with a maximum of 0.3 percent THC, the CBD market was born – and it has since grown tremendously.

Before going further, it should be noted that hemp-based CBD products are unregulated, which makes quality that much more important. The best companies seek to assure customers by having products tested by a third-party laboratory – companies who don’t do this, or claim to carry out testing themselves, should cause alarm. Moreover, products made using the supercritical CO₂ extraction method are likely to be safer and of higher quality, as this process more effectively filters heavy metals and toxins from the extract. These unwanted substances build up in the hemp plant as it grows because the plant is a bio-accumulator – they are picked up more quickly than they can be excreted.

Now let’s take a closer look at the most popular hemp-based CBD products, and how they can be used beneficially.

Full-spectrum hemp-based CBD products

These tend to be the most popular hemp-based CBD products as they offer the maximum therapeutic potential possible sans THC. Research from Dr Ethan Russo and others has shown that cannabis is more effective when a full extract is used, rather than isolated cannabinoids. For instance, the psychoactive effects of THC are not as extraordinary when CBD is also taken, as the CBD reduces the strength of the bind that THC makes with the CB₁ receptor.

Hemp contains an array of non-psychoactive cannabinoids, in addition to THC, and also some useful terpenes, such as pinene and linalool. Pinene has traditionally been used to treat wounds and infections, while linalool can help to counteract anxiety.

The vape industry is thriving among ex-smokers and also cannabis users, and hemp-based CBD vape oil and e-liquid is very popular. New CBD users are advised to start on the weaker potency bottles, as this helps them to become familiar with the effects, and also to establish how much is necessary to treat a certain ailment. Some conditions require small doses, others require bigger doses. Due to a lack of clinical research on CBD for most illnesses, it can be a case of trial and error.

To avoid confusion, writing a journal on each CBD dose can help with settling on a preferred dosage. Some opt for refillable cartridges, which allow for short and long vapor draws, but those who want an exact dosage could try CBD cartridges. These are designed to only release a specific quantity of CBD with each draw.

CBD-isolate products

Despite full-spectrum CBD products arguably having more therapeutic value, there remains a big market for CBD-isolate products. As the name indicates, these are made to only contain CBD, and none of the other cannabinoids and terpenes found in a full-plant hemp extract.

CBD-isolates are perfect for those who know that they only need CBD to treat their condition, or for those who have concerns about drugs tests at work, or elsewhere. It’s important to note that testers only look for THC and not CBD, but since full-spectrum products may have traces of THC, the amount in the system can accumulate if taking high doses multiple times per day. Thanks to the much-higher amount of CBD entering the body, there still won’t be any psychoactive effects, but in an unfortunate scenario, where the test has a low THC threshold, there is some scope for a failure. This can be enough to encourage users to switch to CBD-isolates to eliminate that risk entirely.

It’s no surprise that CBD concentrates are some of the best-selling CBD-isolate products, as this the fastest way to take a huge dose. Concentrates are usually dabbed but can be mixed into vape oil and even ingested – the effects will be slower but last for longer if ingested.

CBD products infused with terpenes

CBD products are sometimes tagged with a “hybrid,” “sativa” or indica” description – and these aren’t for show. These products are normally CBD-isolates, that have been enhanced with a specific array of terpenes, to encourage a certain reaction.

This can be useful in a few ways. An indica for example, will provide more sedation, which is suitable if using CBD as a sleeping agent. These relaxing terpenes have a soothing influence on the muscles and the mind, promoting rejuvenating sleep. CBD works to regulate the sleep-wake cycle, boosting the amount of deep sleep where the most significant regeneration takes place.

On the other hand, a CBD product with a sativa slant is great in the mornings, or for a mid-afternoon slump. The pick-me-up effect is akin to that of caffeine, without the headache later on. Patients with depression who take CBD for the chemical adjustments which facilitate a mood boost may be benefitted further by the energizing nature of a sativa-dominant CBD product.

Final thoughts on hemp-based CBD

Most cannabis activists rightly call for all components of the plant to be legalized, at least for medicinal use, but the rich list of benefits that can be derived from hemp-based CBD means many have to suffer no longer. If anxiety is holding you back from enjoying your best life, then vaping CBD to release calming GABA neurotransmitters into the brain will break the shackles. If chronic pain is proving troublesome, then vaporizing or applying CBD cream to the most painful spots will deliver much-needed relief.

And researchers have barely scratched the surface. Just recently, a study from the University of British Columbia found that there may be more cannabinoids in cannabis, and therefore hemp, than we originally thought, after discovering 21 compounds that were yet to be identified. This throws up a new set of interactions and possibly new cannabis-based products in the future. It also suggests that the effects of cannabis on the body are even more complex.

Now is the time to start the holiday shopping for the 2018 season! I always like to try and be done before Thanksgiving that way we van enjoy the holidays and get to relax. At Media Mikes, we try to find the newest and coolest items to help you get the best gifts during the holiday season. 2018 is shaping up to be one of our busiest years to date with product coverage. Check out below for just a few of the must-own  products this year!

One of this year’s top items to keep an eye out for would be the MIQRO vaporizer. Da Vinci has already delivered amazing products and the MIQRO has an all zirconium ceramic vapor path and mouthpiece which allows you to draw the purest vapor you’ll ever taste in a vaporizer. What makes Da Vinci stand out is that these vaporizers they stand behind their legacy on perfecting the purest flavor. This vaporizer is 33% smaller than its predecessor and with a fully functional adjustable oven, this small vaporizer is sleek and simple!

While you are using your amazing MIQRO, would better way to relax than to kick back with a screening of “The Big Lebowski”. Well, get ready for this holiday season because there is an amazing 20th Anniversary Limited Edition debuting for the first time ever on 4K Ultra Combo Pack that also includes Blu-ray™ and Digital via the digital movie app Movie Anywhere on October 16, 2018, from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. The Big Lebowski 20th Anniversary Limited Edition is the perfect gift for any fan and the exclusive set includes a collectible bag, bowling ball pencil holder, polishing cloth and sweater packaging offering delivering the perfect gift for any fan.

Now if you want to win the holiday season, head over to Forever Collectibles (FOCO) because they  just released their first series of Bluetooth enabled ugly Christmas sweaters… That’s right I said, Bluetooth Ugly Christmas Sweater.Now if a sports fan, get ready to make that purchase because the time is now! The officially-licensed knitted NFL team light-up Bluetooth sweaters for the 2018 holiday season are a must have for all sports fans there are a ton of amazing professional and collegiate sports to choose from. I know the point of the “ugly sweaters” is to be ugly but these shirts look amazing as well as add a little extra cheese factor. The Bluetooth lighting is an amazing addition to the ugly sweater tradition. You are able to display blinking lights on front so you can light up the room and keep the party going all night!

Since the season is just starting off, this piece is only the beginning for us here at Media Mikes, we will have many more gift guides for you to check out this holiday season. Don’t get caught out of time and without a gift. Hopefully this gift guide allows you to get a jump on the shopping this year and makes your loved ones very happy in return!

It’s estimated that 115 people per day die in the US per day from opioid overdoes. The economic burden for opioid abuse alone costs the United States $78 billion per year. If you factor in alcohol and illicit drug use that number totals around $740 billion per year. Needless to say, this is a significant epidemic in American society that currently lacks a practical solution. 10% of American adults have a substance use disorder that they struggle with yet 75% of them never receive any form of treatment.

Removing the Stigma of Addiction

Much of the reluctance from those suffering from substance abuse disorders to seek treatment stems from the stigma associated with drug and alcohol abuse. Many view addicts as lacking moral character and those with substance abuse issues often experience deep-seeded feelings of shame and guilt. Emerging science and research has pointed to a number of physiological and genetic differences that play a significant factor is a likelihood of developing a substance abuse disorder. In addition to epigenetics and physiological traits, childhood trauma and painful life experiences also play a significant role in someone’s likelihood to abuse drugs or alcohol. Shaming or stigmatizing addicts fails to offer a solution to the drug epidemic and only seems to serve as a deterrent from seeking the treatment they need.

Addiction Treatment

Many options exist for those that do decide to seek treatment. Depending on the severity of the substance abuse issue, there are different levels of care best suited for the condition. The first step for someone who has been abusing drugs intensively or for an extended period is typically detox. Detoxing from drugs that the body has become adapted to can be a dangerous process which is why this form of treatment usually takes place in a medical setting for a short term of a few days to a week. In-patient or residential treatment is the next level of care where someone usually spends 30+ days living on-site at a facility where they abstain from drugs and alcohol and receive some form of counseling along with a wide range of complementary treatments depending on the facility. These types of facilities often come with a very high price tag, making them inaccessible for a large part of the population who either can’t afford them or don’t have insurance that will cover treatment. An outpatient rehab may be an alternative for someone who requires a lower level of care and who doesn’t have the time to spend living on-site for a month-long residential program. Outpatient rehabs allow you to live at home and attend to work or family obligation while still receiving treatment.

Methods for Treating Substance Abuse

Conventional – Medication Assisted Treatment

The current existing model for treating drug addiction involves the use of psychotropic pharmaceutical drugs that activate much of the same circuitry as illicit street drugs. These drugs are often seen as a much safer alternative to street drugs, however still only really serve as a band-aid for a deeper underlying condition. With the rise of medical assisted treatment (MAT) (MAT) pharmaceuticals have taken the forefront of drug addiction treatment. Many addicts come into therapy in bad shape and pharmaceuticals can be incredibly useful in adding detox, and to help get someone back to an even baseline; however the long-term consumption of these substances can create mental and physical imbalances, and come with many side effects.

Holistic – Whole Person Treatment

Addiction can be viewed as a complex disorder that affects the mind, body, and spirit. It is in many ways the symptom of a deeper underlying condition. A holistic drug rehab model that treats the whole-person may be the best option for addressing the multitude of factors that contribute to addiction by offering a wide range of tools that treat the whole person vs. isolating symptoms.  Holistic drug treatment combines traditional interventions and modalities for treating substance abuse disorders and combines them with alternative and complementary therapies that help heal underlying physical health conditions, help reduce stress and help reestablish balance to the mind and body. There a number of physiological issues that can contribute to addiction such as nutrient deficiencies, inflammation, imbalanced gut bacteria, food allergies, and heavy metal toxicities. Holistic addiction treatment looks to correct these issues which in turn helps to establish a more balanced mood state.

The need for more resources.

Taking measure to offer education, prevention tools, and affordable treatment options need to be made a bigger priority in the US. The statistics regarding drug abuse in American are shocking, yet there is still a large part of the population that remain unaware of the severity of an issue that is occurring right in their own backyard.  Substance abuse is an issue that affects all walks of life and those suffering with it are not merely a “junkie,” “alcoholic,” or “crackhead,” but possibly a neighbor, friend, or loved one. Shame and guilt will never take the place of effective measures for treating and preventing drug abuse.

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Positron CEO Jeffrey Travis

It’s safe to say I will try anything when it comes to new theatrical experiences. I’ve always loved Lincoln Square’s IMAX screenings, I’ve seen entire Broadway plays done in binaural audio (that’s “3D” sound) and even shelled out extra ticket money to see a favorite film in 4DX once or twice. So I was excited to try out Positron’s Voyager Chair, a VR experience which is being deployed to several theater celebrating the release of Universal’s First Man. Guests heading out to several AMC locations across the nation have not only the chance to just see the Damian Chazelle film, which is released on October 12th, but to take a small excursion to the moon themselves.

I got to try out the Voyager chair on Tuesday both with the First Man VR experience as well as a seasonally-appropriate horror short called “Night Night” and was really impressed with the level of immersion, from the spatial audio to truly being able to look in all directions within my headset. My First Man mission even had an animated co-pilot! Best of all, the Voyager chair itself, whose design looks straight out of Men In Black, was actually pretty comfortable and even after these two shorts I felt no sort of motion sickness, which I was wary of considering 3D films can give me a headache.

Positron’s CEO Jeffrey Travis was in New York this week with the Voyager to talk about the potential that this technology presents to cinematic VR experiences.

Lauren Damon: Was this pod created just for First Man?

Jeffrey Travis: No, we created this to be a platform for cinematic VR in general. So the first kind of wider public experience was we did The Mummy with Universal. So we’ve done three experiences with Universal–The Mummy, Jurassic World and First Man. It was all really cool. But there’s a lot of other studios and places that we use these with. The idea is to create ultimately VR cinemas.

LD: Is the goal here to get whole theaters of these?

JT: Yeah! So we can do theaters with this. Mini ones of twos or threes and we actually set that up here at Pod hotels here in Brooklyn. It’s open to the public. We have pairs of chairs at AMC theaters here in New York at Lincoln Square, San Francisco, DC, LA, but eventually we’re going to be putting this in permanent installations and creating VR theaters of 30-40 chairs and people could buy a ticket and come for an experience that’s either like something of what you’ve just experienced or longer. Somewhere from a half hour to an hour.

LD: Yeah because how long can you view it without feeling it too much?

JT: Yeah we talk about that. I think the ideal length is about half an hour for cinematic VR. I think longer than that, the headsets can get a little heavy on some people. But those are being made by companies like Facebook and Samsung and Microsoft and HP and they’re getting better all the time. So I think we will be able to have 90 minute VR experiences. But right now a half hour feels like a very full meal.

LD: What would the price point be in terms of ticketing?

JT: So probably around—it depends on experience—but probably averaging around $30.

LD: That price is actually similar to they have those “4D[x]” theaters here, what are your thoughts on those?

JT: We do get asked about that. I think it’s still fundamentally different. You know, to me the 4D movie theater, you’re adding some sensory effects that compliment the 2D screen experience. Which is fine and good, but what we’re trying to do here is really bring VR to where you forget about the screen, you even forget about the motion…So it’s almost like you don’t notice it’s happening. You should just feel like you’re actually in the story. That’s kind of the goal, not just a little enhancement but something that’s integrated.

LD: How much testing goes into something like this? How much time does it take to produce?

JT: It really depends on the piece but it goes through a lot of testing. Several months. This next piece that we’re working on is called “Shady Friend,” a VR comedy starring Weird Al Yankovic. It’s a psychedelic comedy that uses scent as well and it’s about a guy that accidentally takes this latest designer drug and goes on this crazy LSD trip. So we’re using motion, haptics and scent and it’s in post-production right now, we shot in July, and it will probably be ready by January. About six months.

LD: When did you start working on this particular First Man experience?

JT: First Man, so that was produced by Ryot and CreateVR and they started actually just two months ago. It was a very accelerated schedule. Which is a little more unusual.

LD: Was all that footage created for this VR?

JT: So obviously the stuff you’re seeing in Mission Control and on the screens is from the film, but then everything else for the VR experience had to be created from scratch. The films assets are mostly 2D and we needed to create these 3D volumetric environments like the moon.

LD: Are you going to get Ryan Gosling to try this out?

JT: I hope so! We had them at the premiere of First Man in the space there. So he was there, I didn’t get a word whether he did it or not. I know the producers of First Man got in there.

LD: There’s definitely a push to add more to theaters considering how much is available for home streaming, do you see this as adding to that?

JT: That’s the idea. I think that movies are certainly in the US and North America, struggling with people going to the box office because they’d often rather stay at home and stream on Netflix. So I think part if the appeal for this is that hey, this is an experience you really can’t get at home. At least not yet. And this brings people out to the movies or at least out to our locations and experiences.

LD: What other films will be having similar tie-in experiences like this?

JT: I mean there’s some coming we can’t really talk about, because they’re not really announced yet. But we’re working working with several other studios besides Universal on some titles and we’ll be announcing as we can.

Positron’s Voyager Chair is offering First Man experiences through October 14th at AMC Theaters in NY’s Lincoln Square, DC’s Georgetown 14, San Francisco’s Metreon 16 and LA’s Universal Citywalk locations

Heidi Schnappauf at Sword Class NYC

When Blindspot enters its fourth season this Friday on NBC, it will of course be bringing the action that has garnered the series multiple Emmy nominations for Outstanding Stunt Coordination. While last year burst onto the scene with, amongst other things, Jane Doe and Co in a tank, this year’s premiere has taken Jane (Jaimie Alexander) to Tokyo where she engages in some impressive swordplay with a new adversary. Behind Jane’s hardest hits is Alexander’s stunt double, Heidi Schnappauf, who has been with the show from the first season. Speaking with me at New York Comic Con*, Jaimie Alexander said of Heidi: “Just the hits she takes, the body slams…I don’t know how she’s OK. Half the time I’m terrified for her because she does a lot of the heavy lifting in the fights…And she’s just incredible, she’s an incredible lady.”

Besides Blindspot Schnappauf has an impressive credits list that includes Marvel’s Jessica Jones, Broad City and Orange is the New Black. I was lucky enough to speak with Heidi about her action-packed job this past weekend when Warner Brothers sent us along with her and Jaimie to, fittingly, a beginner Kendo sword lesson!

Lauren Damon: How long have you been with the show?

Heidi Schnappauf: I’ve been with the show all the four seasons, however, I came in toward the end of the first season. I think episode twenty. So right at the end kind of filling in for her old double [Ky Furneaux].

LD: What are your favorite types of stunts?

HS: I love to fight. My main background was fighting. This, sword fighting, was not something I grew up with, but definitely something I picked up on the way and trained a little bit. But fighting, which includes all the falling that we do—getting thrown around—I started at such a young age that I got thrown around a lot when I was in karate as a kid, moving into college years. But I really do love all the hard hits and driving. I’ve been doing stunts driving now for about eight years. So yeah, anything where I’m maybe flying through some glass or getting thrown out of a car, I totally dig it! Any of that.

LD: Have you ever had any major injuries?

HS: I’ve had a few. Biggest injury was not on Blindspot, actually it was right before I got on Blindspot. I was recovering from my biggest injury which was I was doing a high fall and there was faulty landing equipment, it was nobody’s fault, just a one in a billion chance I ended up injuring my neck pretty badly. I was out for about ten months from work, which was a really big bummer actually. And the doctor—I was in the ER from that injury and with you know, on morphine and valium and a neck brace and tears coming out of my eyes—the doctor’s like ‘Oh I guess this is gonna put a damper on your career’ and I’m like ‘Yeah, I really know what I’m going to do next time so I don’t hurt myself’ and he’s like ‘Next time?! Are you nuts?!’…I’m like ‘Well, yeah, I’m just bummed that it’s gonna be a while!’ So that was my most devastating injury. Everyone wanted to cut me open, everyone wanted to do surgery, they wanted to replace my disc, or fuse my spine and all this stuff…I kind of basically talked to doctors until I got the answer I wanted and then I found more doctors to support that.

LD: As a viewer, what are some of your favorite films or tv shows for stunts?

HS: Um…Blindspot? [laughs]…Oh, I really like Supergirl, is that WB? I do like Supergirl. I’m not gonna lie, I don’t watch a lot of TV because I work and I sleep and I try to watch Blindspot. But I do, actually, this new season of Iron Fist is probably my favorite bit of action on tv or Netflix…Blacklist, I love Blacklist. They just have such a variety of stunts on that show. And Game of Thrones. Come on, man, you can’t deny that setting like seventy five stunt people on fire is NOT cool. From a DRAGON. It’s insane.

LD: There’s a faction out there that is pushing for a Best Stunts category at the Academy Awards, how do you feel about that?

HS: I think that’s a good idea since like every other category is out there. I mean, I don’t know how you’d delegate that but I think that’s a good start to just recognizing it. I don’t do stunts, obviously, to be recognized. I love it because I get to kind of be the magician of the action world of film and tv. You don’t really want to give your tricks away, you want to make it an illusion…most, some people I know anyway, don’t do it for the glory. It’s not really about that. It’s about making good work. I would love to see it so it’s recognized as an art and as you know, that magical things that happens isn’t actually magic. It’s people that are putting their bodies and their lives on the line to bring everyone a cool product. CGI just doesn’t cut it for me, man!

Blindspot season 4 premieres Friday October 12th at 8pm on NBC.

*Check back here this weekend to see our full chats with Blindspot stars Jaimie Alexander and Sullivan Stapleton!

2017 was a HUGE year for virtual reality. Products like the HTC Vive and the Oculus Rift has been taking off as has console platform VR like Playstation VR, which is finally starting to release good games like “DOOM” and “Gran Turismo”. I would say that 2017 has easily been the year of VR…but it is only the start. 2018 has been taking off with new tech like the Oculus Quest and Go stand alone products revealed! Now is the time for VR

Virtual reality is not limited to gaming though, even theme parks are adapting this technology into their locations. SeaWorld in Orlando, FL recently revamped its classic rollercoaster “Kraken” and it now has VR option added to the ride, which adds A LOT of replay value to this ride. If you have ever wanted to go behind the sea and battle a real monster all while being twisted and turned on a rollercoaster, then you need to experience this coaster. Other theme parks, including Legoland Florida, as well are developing and implementing these new features as well.

If you are asking what are VR games, you will not have to look far for answer because it is becoming more mainstream every day.  You will find it even crossing over into your Smartphones with using devices like Google Cardboard and Samsung Gear VR, which can be used with your devices at home. Personally, I have tried this and I am not too thrilled of having to take off my phone case each time in order to use it but I can see that in the future this is easily going to be able to fixed.

Visiting IAAPA (International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions), which is a global amusement-industry trade show, which also took place in Orlando, FL in November of this year, it was filled with new VR technology. I do not see this technology getting old anytime soon in fact I only see it getting bigger and bigger each year.

From wearing VR glasses during rollercoaster, playing at home with your handheld devices, there is some great ways to get ready for the new year and enjoy this new technology. Some people thing that VR might be a bit of a gamble since it is still new but you will be amazed at the features available to you. Being a gamer, whether you are enjoy online casino sites like, https://www.casino.com/ca/, or the future of VR is not a gamble. This is ia sure win. How awesome would it be to see online gamling in VR, man I would definitely pay to experience that.

I am just waiting for the day when this technology is implementing future into school or even movie theaters. Imagine seeing a movie like “Avatar” or something where it is fully immersive experience with all the senses including touch and smell within the VR world. I can see that easily being the future.

The use of CBD has gained popularity in the past few years. This can be attributed to the many proven health benefits CBD oil packs for users. With this in mind, there has also arisen businessmen who are all about minting money and not providing a pure product. This is a comprehensive CBD review to help you understand what to look for when purchasing your precious oil.

Do Your Own Research

Don’t just look at the cheapest CBD oil and decide that’s what to buy. It’s wise to research about the particular CBD product you want to purchase as well as the store that’s stocking the product. Weigh the benefits against the side effects to determine if you should proceed with the purchase.

Quality

If a product sounds too good to be true, tread carefully. Settle on a product that’s been proven to be effective for your particular needs. Another thing you need to look at is the pricing. In this case, cheap is expensive. If a product is too cheap, chances are it’s substandard.

CBD concentration

This is the most important aspect you should examine. Look at the labeling in a product. You should opt for a product that contains a high level of CBD because it will be more effective.

Extraction process

Different manufacturers use different methods to get their final product-CBD oil. Companies that want to make a quick buck will go for the cheapest method which may be through use of harmful solvents. Before making any, purchase do research to find out whether the method of extraction as well as storage facilities are up to the set standards.

Check the source

Cannabis is grown in either organic or inorganic soil. The type of soil where the cannabis will be grown will determine the quality as well as safety of the CBD oil. Cannabis grown in organic soil will contain little or no health effects and vice versa.

Lab testing

A company that has followed all the laid down procedures of manufacturing and storage won’t be afraid to display their findings on their website on product label. As opposed to taking a blanket approach, each batch of oil should be tested independently.

Source of the oil

Depending on the type of oil you choose, they will have different origin. Some come from flowers and others marijuana. If you’re looking for a product with a higher percentage of CBD, go for one obtained from flowers.

Compare the products and pricing

Before making the final decision on purchase, visit different manufacturers or suppliers to compare what each has to offer. There are awesome brands with awesome deals. For example, CBDistillery coupon codes and reviews help you save on products that are high quality and 3^rd party lab tested.

Don’t believe in false claims or medical claims about CBD oil. These aren’t approved by the FDA and don’t follow guidelines. It can be a tedious process searching for quality brands but there’s great resources out there.

When it comes to anything inflatable, the company that is the leader is no question, Gemmy. They come out with literally the best airblown inflatable products for all the holidays. Christmas has always been the big go-to for inflatables but recently Halloween has been stealing some of the spotlight with Gemmy putting out some excellent products.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” and Gemmy has delivered four new products to celebrate. The one that we received from Gemmy to feature is a scene with Jack Skellington, Sally and even Zero. It is runs about 6 feet tall and is available at Walmart. There is also an inflatable with Jack and Oogie Boogie, that was a close second to this one.

“The Nightmare Before Christmas” Jack Skellington and Sally Airblown Inflatable Scene is easily one of our instant favorites and what is even cooler is that this scene could also work well for the Christmas season as well if you are a big fan of the film like our house is. The lights are really bright on these and I love how it has a base stand around it which makes it VERY easy to display in small areas since it stands up easily.

Gemmy also has great other Halloween products including a Minion Ghost (also a great purchase, I can see this side by side with the Jack & Sally scene) as well as a Bewitched Pumpkin Carriage with a Fire and Ice Projection. Easy year they are outdoing themselves with these products. I am very proud to display this product in front of my house and I see cars slow by as they pass just to get a good look at night cause honestly, it looks amazing from the street. Don’t wait head to Walmart now!

Who’s more difficult to find a gift for: your mother-in-law, or the guy who has everything? Okay, so both are pretty hard. But honestly, just get your mother-in-law a photo album and a subscription for a fresh bouquet every month, and you’re golden. As for the impossible guy, the whole gift-giving world is your oyster. That’s right—there’s actually a whole treasure trove of gifts out there you can choose from for that extra-picky man you want to impress.

A Donation

Sometimes, a graceful way to show someone you care about them is to make a charitable donation in their name. This is such a win-win because you both get those warm-fuzzies that come from selfless giving, and your guy doesn’t have to worry about accruing more stuff that he doesn’t want or need. Plus, if he’s already involved in charity work, you can donate to the organization that’s close to his heart. Even the guy who has everything can’t get enough of giving back to a cause he’s passionate about.

A Dedication

Similar to a donation, there are countless adoption/dedication programs to choose from. You can get your guy anything from a star in the sky, a tree in the Amazon, or a snow leopard on the endangered list. Many of these programs provide periodical updates or facts about the object or creature you’re helping support—plus they usually come with fun little goodie bags. This is a nice, wholesome way of showing how much you care and how well you know him without having to get him another gadget he’ll only use once.

A Timepiece

Is there anything classier than a well-dressed guy with a slick new watch? No, there is not. If you absolutely have to get your everything-man something wearable, please let it be a watch. Look no further than these classic men’s watches from MVMT—their elegance will certainly delight the high-class tastes of your man. A sophisticated watch will help him get to all his appointments on time, but the best part? He’ll always think of you when he checks the time so you’re never far from his thoughts.

Nostalgia

Perhaps the solution is right in front of you. There’s no one in the world who doesn’t appreciate a thoughtful gift from the heart meant to remind you of happy times. The possibilities are endless. Yes, a photo album is always a crowd pleaser, but who says it has to be cute? It can be all funny pictures, embarrassing moments, or selfies (it is 2018, after all). But, photos are not the only way to a sentimental man’s heart. You can find a vintage hoodie from his alma mater, a pair of sunglasses that look just like the ones his grandpa used to wear, or some old baseball cards from when he used to trade them around with friends. Get creative, and do some digging. You can find some real treasures when you make an effort to remind your impossible-guy of the good ole’ days.

A Vacation

Don’t worry, there’s no need to plan a luxury trip to the Maldives for two weeks. A weekend trip is a great gift to share together that will spark plenty of new memories. Maybe you could take a little road trip or even opt for a staycation in your own city. Splurge for a nice hotel, get a reservation at that restaurant you keep talking about, book massages, and check off those touristy things you’ve been meaning to do for years. A lot of times, the best gift is just good company and happy memories to be made.

A New Hobby

Guys that have everything usually love to try new things and expand their horizons– otherwise they wouldn’t have so much cool stuff. Ask him about his interests and his schedule, and then do some research on classes in your area. Maybe it’s a cooking class, or he can learn how to brew beer, or maybe even a dance or art class. Trying something new is always exciting and gives you an excuse to get out together.

The man who has everything can be hard to shop for, but with a little creativity and thoughtfulness, you’re bound to find a gift that he’ll cherish for years to come.

This week my daughter mentioned to me if she can get a headphones for her iPad for when we are in the car traveling. So, I said well maybe you can ask Santa Claus for it for Christmas. In my searching, I came across CozyPhones, which are a super cute and also multi-functional. These  super comfortable 3-In-1 Headphones within the headband with kid safe volume control. The headband also serves as a sleep mask. This is literally a must have for all kids.

As a parent yourself, who else has issues if their earbuds falling out or breaking and the ugly bulky over-the-ear headphones?! These headphones are a great gift for kids. It also mentioned that this product is a wonderful solution for children with sensory issues and special needs. Still need more reasons? Well, the speakers are able to be easily removed, which means that you can even watch the headband if it gets dirty! BOOM!

Lastly, I should mention all the different type of headband designs that you can get. There are featured original style favorites, including a Fox, Frog, Panda, Bunny and (sure to be every girl’s favorite) a Unicorn. CozyPhones also has aligned itself with some of the top shows and brands in children’s entertainment and have partnered with Nickelodeon’s Paw Patrol for Chase, Marshall & Skye designs available now also – with more favorites to come! So there is only great things to come from this company! Stay tuned and definitely consider this for your kids this holiday season!

All CozyPhones are compatible with Apple iPhone, iPad, iPod, Android, Samsung Galaxy, Blackberry, Nokia, LG, HTC, Google Nexus, Lenovo, Asus, Sony, Dell, Toshiba, HP, MP3, MP4 and other audio devices.  Ages 4+, SRP $19.99 on Amazon, click here to purchase.

Photo by Joshua Hoehne on Unsplash

43 million people are classed as avid movie-goers, according to the Motion Picture Association of America. Of these movie-obsessed individuals, 11.1 million are aged between 25 and 39 years old. But, what about if you’re more than a lover of the flicks and you need to get your movie fix by attending the latest premieres? Despite these events costing thousands, it is possible to attend so long as you’re smart with your money.

Setting a limit

777 movies were released last year. No matter how much of a film buff you are, it would be practically and financially impossible to attend this many premieres. Therefore, at the start of each year, it’s wise to sit down and review the movies set to be released throughout the year and shortlist the ones that you’re most looking forward to. Set yourself a limit on the number of premieres you’ll attend, as well as the maximum amount of cash you’ll spend on your hobby.

Getting the most for your money

According to 1BoxOffice, it costs between $1,500 and $6,000 to attend a movie premiere. The cost varies greatly depending on the movie title, and the cast and crew involved in the production. Understandably, if you select to attend the premiere of several top movies, then the cost soon adds up. Therefore, it’s likely you’ll need to cover this costly expense via a credit card. To ensure you get the most for your cash, opt for a card which provides additional benefits, such as cashback or reward points. It’s worth utilizing unlimited movie passes for all the other movies you want to see throughout the year. For as little as $29.99 per month, you can watch as many movies as you want and save yourself a small fortune in the process.

Cut-price premiere tickets

Some movie companies offer free premiere tickets to avid movie fans. Therefore, before you fork out your hard earned cash on a ticket, contact the movie studio who made the movie and ask if they have any tickets to the premiere available. Another option is to sign up to a specialist movie club which offers their members the option of buying discounted premiere tickets. Some charities will also hold auctions where premiere tickets can be bid on. So, keep your eyes peeled for low cost ways of bagging a spot at the hottest premiere.

A movie obsession can set you back thousands. This is especially the case if the desire to attend the latest premieres won’t leave you. However, by setting yourself a strict limit and budget, seeking out the best payment options and hunting for great deals, you can continue to fuel your movie addiction and save cash.

When you’ve moved into the home of your dreams, you want to make sure everything is just right. You want an efficient kitchen, comfortable guest rooms and bedrooms, a nice garage for your vehicles and outdoor equipment, and maybe even a nice study or the games room for entertaining friends and family. One thing you may want as a centerpiece for your games room is a nice pool table. Something that is not only a conversation piece but, provides fun and entertainment for many years or comes.

With that in mind, here are a few things to keep in mind when buying that pool table for movie nights, family get-togethers and other special occasions:

Quality. A good pool table should have good hardwood construction. You want it to last for years, so don’t settle for shoddy construction or workmanship. Solid hardwood pool tables with interlocking support beams may be a little more expensive, but the cost is well worth it in the long run.

Slate. Look for a pool table that has matched pieces that are all cut from the same slab. The best slate should be about three-quarters of an inch thick with a diamond-honed surface.

Felt. Look for a pool table that has the felt glued and screwed in place. This lasts longer than felt that is just tacked or stapled into place. Also, look for a good felt covering that has good wool content. The higher the percentage of wool that is used in the covering, the better because this is generally more durable and longer-lasting.

Railings, cushions, and pockets. A good pool table should have hardwood or laminate railings, canvas-backed cushions, and pockets made of rubber or soft plastic. Hardwood railings are less likely to break and crack over time and cause less vibration during gameplay. Cushions made of canvas or similar materials are less likely to break or separate over time. Pockets made of rubber or soft plastic are resistant to scuffs, scrapes, and damage.

Don’t forget about the accessories! You can’t play the game if you don’t have the right equipment. You’ll need to stock up on:

• Pool cues or cue sticks
• billiard balls
• A pool cue or cue stick rack or holder
• billiard sticks

You may also want to add optional items such as table brushes, cue chalk or talcum powder, cue repair kits, additional billiard balls or pool cues and a good pool table cover.

Most pool tables are delivered unassembled. You can tackle the assembly yourself, or you can leave it to an expert installer from the store you purchased it from. It might cost a little more, but takes an expert pool table installer to take care of the busy work for you can save you time and the worry over missing pieces or having the table assembled incorrectly.

View this post and other informational websites for helpful hints about important factors to consider when buying your pool table. Do your research, read reviews and product specifications. You want your pool table to be the cornerstone of your entertainment room, so make the right choice and you’ll have something that will be a highlight of entertaining your family and friends for many years to come.

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Did you know that you can install your tile yourself? You’ve probably seen this process being done dozens of times on home improvement shows. It’s fairly easy to do on your own, even if you have little DIY knowledge or experience. All that you need is a set of easy to follow instructions, courtesy of tile floor installation Dallas.

Start By Prepping the Surface

Of course, this assumes that the old flooring has already been removed. If it hasn’t, do that first, and then begin to prep your surface. In order for the tile to sit evenly and adhere properly, your subfloor must be perfectly even, free of damage, and clean, smooth and dry. You’ll also need to take out any molding or trimming, as well as any appliances that will be in your way. Also, check your doorjambs to ensure that the tile won’t interfere with the movement of the door. You don’t want to find out too late that your door will drag on the tile, scratching it in the process.

Layout Your Tile

You’ll need a few things for this step, including a yardstick and a chalk line snapping device. Determine where the center point in the room is located and snap several chalk lines leading from the center out to each of the walls. Make sure that those lines are straight because you’ll be using them to align your tile. You don’t want to have a crooked floor! If the room is fairly large, arrange it into two foot by three-foot sections with the chalk lines. These will make it much easier to manage. Once the chalk lines are in place, start laying out tile along them, beginning at the center and radiating out towards the walls.

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Apply Adhesive

Generally, you want only to apply 30 minutes worth of adhesive. However many tiles you can lay in 30 minutes, use that much adhesive. Otherwise, you’ll end up with lumpy adhesive in the areas where you had to go back over the subfloor. It is okay if you can only lay a few tiles in 30 minutes. There’s no rush. Apply the adhesive to the floor in thin, even coats, and then press the tiles into it, following your grid pattern and chalk lines. Continue until your floor is covered, and cut the tiles as necessary as you go along.

It’s Time for Grout

Once your tile adhesive fully dries, it’s time to grout. The grout should be applied with a trowel in between the tiles. Use a cloth to wipe away any excess grout that ends up on the tiles. Leaving any of these marks behind will make your flooring look like an amateur did it. Even though one did, you still want it to look as professional as possible. Give the grout plenty of time to dry, and then you’re done!

If you have any questions about the tile installation process, click here to get some advice from the experts: tile floor installation Dallas.

Without the right equipment and proper assembly, drumming can suck for both the drummer and their audience. Whether you’re in the practice room, the recording studio or in a live performance, having the right tools and equipment in your arsenal will make your practice, recording or performance a great deal of fun. However, having the basic hardware with a kit, a set of cymbals, some drumsticks, and some hearing protection may not be enough for a great experience, especially for the novice and nearly seasoned pro.

As we advance in technology, a lot of resourceful drumming accessories have been produced over the past few years. Some of these accessories have become huge trends in the world of drumming today and professional drummers can no longer approach their performances and practice sessions without them.

Read more about these new trends below on the 4 innovative drum accessories drummers must have.

1. A double bass drum pedal

As you may have noted from the best drumming review sites such as Begin Your Drumming, most modern high-quality drum kits come with this accessory included in the package. Especially for drummers who are more into heavy music, a double bass pedal is an accessory that shouldn’t miss in your arsenal, especially when going for a live performance. The double bass pedal eliminates the need to have two bass drums in your kit setup.

It allows you to hit the bass drum from either foot, thus allowing you to add power to your music without straining too much. It also allows you to play rudiments that can hardly be achieved when using a single pedal. Nonetheless, double bass pedals come in a wide variety of styles, sizes, and qualities depending on the brand and manufacturer. Additionally, not all double bass pedals may be compatible with your current drum kit or bass drum.

2. Drummer metronome

Any intermediate or professional drummer, especially for those who play in a band will tell you just how important timing is in the art of drumming. A metronome is a device that allows you to stay up to speed. In layman terms, you can also refer to it as a timekeeper for drummers. A metronome allows you to stay on time not only during performances but also when practicing to perfect your drumming skills. The device plays a click track at a certain BPM or tempo (preset by the drummer), which helps you to keep pace and not go off-beat. Metronomes come in a wide variety of designs, shapes, and sizes, meaning that it is highly important to conduct research on some of the best drumming metronomes before investing in one.

3. Drummer headphones

Drumming headphones are another highly resourceful accessory in the art. They allow you to hear yourself play the drums as you protect your ears from the loudness. They come in a wide variety of options, including in-ear and full-size headphones, as well as earbuds. Some of them come with highly advanced features such as noise cancelling, impedance, comfortable fit, and high-quality sound.

4. Bass drum microphone

Yes, you can actually use a microphone when drumming without moving your lips. A drumming bass mic can come in handy when you need to amplify your bass drum sound for more thickness and texture.

With a double bass pedal, a drum mic, a metronome, and a quality set of drumming headphones added to your drumming arsenal, there’s literally nothing stopping you from making great music or practicing to do so. Other seemingly resourceful accessories to consider include drum bags, stick holders, cymbal locks, and drum rags.