3 Ways to Inject a Bit More Authenticity into Everyday Life

January 30, 2020 Division No. 23, Unorganized, MB, Canada


There are certain things that we all need and crave in life, in order to feel as though we are living in a way that is true to ourselves and that feels meaningful and properly-balanced.

One of the things that we all tend to crave is a sense of authenticity – the feeling that we are doing things that actually matter and that have some substance, as opposed to just drifting through life more or less aimlessly.

These days, the craving for “authenticity” can clearly be seen in a wide variety of social and consumer-driven movements that push for a heightened degree of individuality and accountability, among other things.

Here are just a few ways to inject a bit more authenticity into your everyday life.

Always try to go for craftsmanship over mass-produced goods

There is something that is always at least a bit “inauthentic” about mass-produced goods that come off a production line somewhere. At the very least, you know that your own particular belonging isn’t at all unique, and doesn’t have much in the way of direct human craftsmanship behind it.

The arts and crafts movement originally developed precisely as a reaction against mass-market goods, and as a move back to authenticity.

These days, it’s easy to find all manner of handcrafted and artisanal goods, ranging from Amish Baskets for storing your Easter eggs in, to sourdough loaves from a traditional bakery (that will doubtless be healthier and tastier than the bread you would buy, wrapped in plastic, at your local supermarket.)

Craftsmanship, in and of itself, implies authenticity as it is the result of direct skilled human work, and not just mechanistic systems and algorithms. What’s more, each artisanal item will be slightly different from the next, therefore giving it more of a personal feel.

Find regular opportunities for “silence” and low-tech hobbies

The advanced technologies that surround us during every waking moment of our lives can certainly be invaluable as tools – but they can often be so all-encompassing that they don’t allow us much opportunity to really be alone with our thoughts.

Silence” is something that has been emphasised as important in all sorts of religious and cultural traditions from around the world. So, in order to discover and develop your authentic sense of self, find regular opportunities for silence.

A great way to do this is by engaging in low-tech hobbies that don’t give you the same level of direct stimulation as watching action movies on TV, or surfing the web.

Always be working on at least one project that feels genuinely meaningful to you

Whether you end up picking up a “side hustle” that you hope to turn into a future career, or just a hobby that you can really invest yourself in, it’s an extremely good idea to always be working on at least one project feels genuinely meaningful to you.

A big part of discovering and expressing authenticity in your everyday life is actually taking the time to explore those things that you value and care about, and, accordingly, letting them enrich your life.
post may contain affiliate links

IrwinNaturals.com Free Bottle of CBD+Joint Health ($42.99 Value) With Purchase

January 29, 2020

Learn More About Irwin NaturalsThis post is sponsored by Savings.com.

Hey there y'all! Have you ever been curious about CBD products? If so you will surely want to check out this great information and deal I have for you all. Irwin Naturals CBD is plant-derived from full-spectrum hemp, and every batch is 3rd party tested. The use of CBD oil is gaining momentum in the health and wellness world, with some scientific studies confirming it may help treat a variety of ailments including epilepsy, anxiety, digestion, pain management and lots of other health issues. And it’s now legal to purchase in all 50 States.

CBD FAQS

Plant-derived, full-spectrum hemp extract formulations with naturally occurring CBD. These formulations feature some of our most favored Irwin Naturals products plus full-spectrum hemp which includes the impressive and promising potential of CBD. They offer CBD oils, balms and supplements.

Discover which Full-Spectrum Hemp formula is right for you.

CBD With Irwin Naturals For FREE

Redeem coupon code VPJOINT14 for a free bottle of CBD+Joint Health ($42.99 value) with any purchase at IrwinNaturals.com. Offer ends 3/8/20 or while supplies last. Open your Valpak envelope for more details! These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The Tastiest Ways To Get More Vegetables Into Your Meals

January 28, 2020



If you were to list your favorite meals would vegetables be in there? It’s doubtful. No doubt you'd be keener on Southern comfort food or a nice juicy burger or steak. When we are told so much that we've got to incorporate more vegetables into our diet, it doesn't particularly fill us with joy! But when we hit the point where we have got to get more vegetables into our foods, either for the sake of our children or just so we can get our quota of vitamins, what are the best ways to get vegetables into our food that is actually tasty?

Oven Roast Them
Oven roasting vegetables brings out so much flavor. For example, if you roast a tomato in the oven, it brings out a nice juicy sweet flavor. When you're looking to make more of your meal times with vegetables, oven roasting them is the way forward! There is a recipe on The Mediterranean Dish website for Italian roasted vegetables that is delicious. When you start to oven roast vegetables you can season them however you want which doesn't just disguise the taste but the oven roasting process gets rid of any horrid textures. The fact of the matter is that when we don't like the idea of vegetables if we can season them with salt, pepper, or garlic as well as throwing some chorizo in there, it makes it a far more enticing prospect.

Blitz Them Into A Soup
The texture is one of the biggest problems with vegetables. Some people don't like the crunch of a carrot. And when we try to get our kids into vegetables, the texture is one of the first things that can throw them off the scent! Instead of piling vegetables on a plate, by blitzing up carrots, broccoli, or any leftover vegetables into a soup you can add seasonings with a nice side of crusty bread and you're going to have your your daily quota in a nice, comforting bowl. There's some fantastic recipes out there for hearty warming soups that is just the ticket in this horrible winter weather.

Make A Sauce Out Of Them
When our kids turn their nose up at vegetables it can be so frustrating but what you can do instead is be very, very sneaky! A pasta sauce or a curry sauce are perfect ways to put in a lot of pureed vegetables into a sumptuous sauce that goes with pasta or rice and chicken. Spaghetti arrabbiata is one of those comforting meals that is perfect for blitzing up into a sauce. If you don't like vegetables, you won't even know they are there! All you will be able to taste is delicious tomato sauce!

Whether we're trying to set a good example for our children or we are looking to be healthier, we've got to get more vegetables into our meals. These three ways are straightforward, to the point, and they don't require much preparation at all. Look at this as the gateway to a healthier life without eating piles and piles of vegetables!

post may contain affiliate links

Weight Loss Mistakes You Could Be Making

January 27, 2020


Trying to lose weight is not something that comes easily to everyone. It can be a huge struggle to reach your goals, or even to get started on losing the weight you want to shed. Even when you feel like you're trying hard, it can seem like nothing is changing and you're not getting what you want. If you're not losing weight, despite trying, you might be making some key mistakes.

Focusing Only on Exercise

Getting more physical activity into your routine is important if you want to be fitter and healthier. It can help you lose weight by burning more calories, giving you a boost to cut down on fat. However, if you focus too much on exercise without changing your diet, it's likely that you won't lose weight as quickly as you want.

Relying on the Scales

A set of bathroom scales can be useful for helping you to monitor your weight. However, if you only have your scales to measure your progress, you probably won't be getting an accurate picture, especially if you're working out more. It's also sensible to use a tape measure to take body measurements so that you can compare them too.

Trusting Fad Diets

If you're looking for a new diet to support your weight loss, it's best to avoid any fad diets that aim for quick, short-term weight loss. They might help you get the weight off but they probably won't help you keep it off. You should adjust your diet so that it's sustainable long-term.


Infographic Design By University of Southern California



post may contain affiliate links

Save BIG with Finish Line at Macy's

January 20, 2020

This post is sponsored by Savings.com

If you love a good sale like I do you don't wanna the BIG SAVINGS on select styles from the finish line at Macys.com. You can save up to 50% Off Select Styles from Finish Line at Macy's through January 25th. So hurry in for these great deals that are sure to make your feet and wallet happy! 

I personally love these Skechers Women's Summits Wide Width Walking Sneakers from Finish Line. Make a speedy exit in the built for performance Skechers Women's Summits Wide Width Walking Sneakers.
  • Athletic walking sneakers
  • Wide width
  • Soft knit mesh nearly one-piece upper
  • Instep and heel mesh fabric panels
  • Bungee stretch fabric laced instep panel
  • Easy slip-on design
  • Padded collar and tongue
  • Memory Foam cushioned insole
  • Flexible shock absorbing midsole
  • Flexible rubber traction sole
  • Textile and synthetic upper; rubber sole

Get out and get moving in these Nike Men's Downshifter 9 Running Sneakers from Finish Line. The Nike Men's Downshifter 9 Running Sneakers from Finish Line are all about delivering a smooth ride.
  • Breathable mesh upper
  • Adjustable arch band
  • Full-length Phylon midsole
  • Bootie for a seamless fit
  • Style no. AQ7481
  • Men's athletic footwear from Finish Line
  • Synthetic upper; rubber sole
Be pretty and stylish in these Nike Little Girls Flex Contact 3 Stay-Put Closure Casual Athletic Sneakers from Finish Line that are perfect for everyday wear. A slip-on design gets a modern-day upgrade thanks to its ultra-flexible sole. Let your little one move freely in the Nike Little Girls Flex Contact 3.
  • Slip-on design with elastic laces and hook-and-loop strap
  • Casual athletic sneaker design
  • Stretchy fabric upper is snug without being too tight
  • Lightweight foam offers cushioned comfort
  • Grooves on the outsole offer flexibility
  • Fabric upper; rubber sole
Quack quack! These Polo Ralph Lauren Big Boys Ewan Duck Boots from Finish Line are all the rage these days and are perfect for the cooler months. Rain, puddles, and snow are no match for the thick rubber bottoms on the Polo Ralph Lauren Big Boys Ewan Duck Boots. A sleek, water-resistant upper blocks out the elements and locks in style.
  • Duck boot silhouette with lace-up fastening for a secure fit
  • Synthetic leather upper for water-resistant style
  • Treaded rubber sole for traction on wet surfaces
  • Heel pull tab for easy on and off
  • Rounded toe for classic styling
  • Synthetic upper; rubber sole

Get on the right track with these Adidas Big Boys Originals EQT Gazelle Casual Sneakers from Finish Line. Inspired by the 1999 Equipment Gazelle, the Adidas Big Boys Originals EQT Gazelle Casual Sneakers feature the chunky 90's styling kids love with a modernized construction built for today.
  • 90's-inspired retro run silhouette with modernized details for today
  • Leather upper with overlays for a premium look
  • EVA midsole for comfort
  • Hologram tongue logo for style
  • The chunky midsole for a retro look
  • Traction outsole for grip
  • Leather upper; rubber sole

These are just a few of the shoes that are currently on sale at the finish line at Macys.com. But hurry in, this sale is only from 1/19/20 - 1/25/20 and some restrictions may apply, see the store page for details


The Addams Family Available on Digital 12/24 & Blu-ray and DVD 1/21




We would like to thank Universal Pictures Home Entertainment for sending our family an advanced copy of The Addams Family. We LOVE and have enjoyed the other Addams Family movies and could not wait to see this one. It was wonderfully done in cartoon form and we enjoyed it so much! It's really a fun family movie that everyone is sure to enjoy!

Everyone’s favorite creepy and kooky family is back in the “frighteningly funny and fresh” (Rosie Knight, IGN) animated feature film, THE ADDAMS FAMILY, arriving on Digital December 24, 2019, and on Blu-ray™️, DVD and On-Demand January 21, 2020, from Metro Goldwyn Mayer Studios (MGM) and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment.

The very first full-length animated film about the eccentric and unconventional family,
THE ADDAMS FAMILY on Blu-ray™️, DVD and Digital showcase the wonderfully weird world of the Addams family with a variety of exclusive bonus features not seen in theaters including deleted and extended scenes, an interactive charades game with Thing, behind-the-scenes footage, music lyric videos and more! Filled with wildly funny moments and a fresh take on the beloved characters created by Charles Addams, THE ADDAMS FAMILY celebrates the uniqueness of every family and delivers spooky fun all year long.

From directors Conrad Vernon (Shrek 2, Madagascar 3) and Greg Tiernan (Sausage Party, “Thomas & Friends”), THE ADDAMS FAMILY boasts a star-studded voice cast including Oscar Isaac (Star Wars: The Last Jedi, X-Men: Apocalypse), Charlize Theron (Long Shot, Kubo and the Two Strings), Chloë Grace Moretz (Kick-Ass, The 5th Wave), Finn Wolfhard (It, “Stranger Things”), Nick Kroll (The Secret Life of Pets 2, Sing), music icon Snoop Dogg, Bette Midler (Hocus Pocus, The First Wives Club) and Allison Janney (Minions, I, Tonya). THE ADDAMS FAMILY was recently nominated for two Annie Awards™ including “Best Character Design – Feature” and “Best Production Design – Feature.”

Get ready to snap your fingers! The Addams Family is back in their first animated comedy about the kookiest family on the block. Funny, outlandish, and completely iconic, THE ADDAMS FAMILY redefines what it means to be a good neighbor.

BONUS FEATURES on BLU-RAY™️, DVD & DIGITAL:
Deleted and Extended Scenes*
Welcome to the Family* – In this combined Making of/Character Profiles, we hear from the filmmakers and stars of The Addams Family about how the film came about, the animation process and insight into the characters.
Life of a Scene* – From black & white storyboards and layouts to animation and lighting, follow along with filmmakers as they bring to life a scene from the movie.
Charades with Thing* – There’s nothing quite like a game of Charades with your friends. But what happens when the person giving the clues isn’t exactly a person? What if he’s just… a hand? On talent day, stars of the film are invited to play Charades with Thing. Talent goes head-to-head, competing to see who can guess Thing’s clues. Graphics reveal the answers and keep score for each player.
Addams Family Throwback
“Haunted Heart” Lyric Video – performed by Christina Aguilera
“My Family” Lyric Video – performed by Migos, Karol G, Rock Mafia & Snoop Dogg* Never-before-seen bonus content

For artwork, please log onto our website at www.uphepublicity.com

Theatrical Website: https://www.addamsfamily.movie/
UPHE Website: http://uni.pictures/AddamsFamily
UPHE Trailer: http://uni.pictures/AddamsFamilyTrailer
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MeetTheAddams
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MeetTheAddams
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/MeetTheAddams/
Wednesday Addams’ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wednesdayaddams/
#MEETTHEADDAMS
FILMMAKERS:
Cast: Oscar Isaac, Charlize Theron, Chloë Grace Moretz, Finn Wolfhard, Nick Kroll, Snoop Dogg as “It” with Bette Midler and Allison Janney
Music By: Mychael Danna and Jeff Danna
Music Supervisor: Chris Douridas
“My Family” Performed By: Migos, Karol G, Rock Mafia, and Snoop Dogg
Film Editor: David Ian Salter, ACE
Executive Producers: Kevin Miserocchi, Andrew Mittman, Joe Earley, Aaron L. Gilbert, Jason Cloth
Produced By: Gail Berman, p.g.a., Conrad Vernon, p.g.a., Alex Schwartz, p.g.a., Alison O’ Brien
Based on Characters Created By: Charles Addams
Story By: Matt Lieberman and Erica Rivinoja and Conrad Vernon
Screenplay By: Matt Lieberman
Directed By: Conrad Vernon and Greg Tiernan

TECHNICAL INFORMATION BLU-RAY™️:
Street Date: January 21, 2020
Selection Number: 61207905 (US)/61207910 (CDN)
Layers: BD 50
Aspect Ratio: 16:9; 1.85:1 Widescreen
Rating: PG for macabre and suggestive humor, and some action
Languages/Subtitles: English SDH, French and Spanish
Sound: English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, French and Spanish DTS Digital Surround 5.1
Run Time: 1 hour and 26 minutes

TECHNICAL INFORMATION DVD:
Street Date: January 21, 2020
Selection Number: 61207904 (US)/61207909 (CDN)
Layers: DVD 9
Aspect Ratio: 16:9; 1.85:1 Anamorphic Widescreen
Rating: PG for macabre and suggestive humor, and some action
Languages/Subtitles: English SDH, French and Spanish
Sound: English, French and Spanish Dolby Digital 5.1
Run Time: 1 hour and 26 minutes

ABOUT METRO GOLDWYN MAYER
Metro Goldwyn Mayer (MGM) is a leading entertainment company focused on the production and global distribution of film and television content across all platforms. The company owns one of the world’s deepest libraries of premium film and television content as well as the premium pay television network EPIX, which is available throughout the U.S. via cable, satellite, telco and digital distributors. In addition, MGM has investments in numerous other television channels and digital platforms. For more information, visit www.mgm.com.

ABOUT UNIVERSAL PICTURES HOME ENTERTAINMENT:
Universal Pictures Home Entertainment (UPHE – www.uphe.com) is a unit of Universal Filmed Entertainment Group (UFEG). UFEG produces, acquires, markets and distributes filmed entertainment worldwide in various media formats for theatrical, home entertainment, television and other distribution platforms, as well as consumer products, interactive gaming and live entertainment. The global division includes Universal Pictures, Focus Features, Universal Pictures Home Entertainment, Universal Brand Development, Fandango and DreamWorks Animation Film and Television. UFEG is part of NBCUniversal, one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production and marketing of entertainment, news and information to a global audience. NBCUniversal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, world-renowned theme parks and a suite of leading Internet-based businesses. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation.

Creating A Thoughtful Birthday Card

January 16, 2020

Most people love shopping, but only when it’s for themselves! Shopping for a friend’s birthday is not easy. The problem is that most gifts and cards are obvious and clichéd. People receive flowers, chocolates or jewellery. Their birthday card either contains a bear for a female or a car for a male. If you go down this route then you will definitely struggle to make an impression. Your friend will appreciate the fact that you have got them something. However, the only way you can truly make your friend’s day a special one is by buying them an item they will never expect.

A lot of individuals underestimate the importance of the card they buy. Unfortunately, birthday cards have become almost ignored. People simply pick up the first and cheapest card they see. There is no thought given to the picture on the front or the words inside. In the midst of all this we have lost how crucial cards actually are. If you give a lot of contemplation to the type of card you are going to buy then you can easily make your friend feel super special. Whilst gifts may be impressive and are often lavish, a card is where the true meaning lies.

There are many types of cards available nowadays. However if you want to create the wow factor then you should definitely go for a personalised photo card. These are readily obtainable on the internet for you to purchase. They create a beautiful impression on the person receiving the card because they showcase how much time and effort you have gone to in order to go that extra mile and make them feel special. That’s why these cards are often viewed as a gift rather than a mere bit of card.

When you opt to combine personalisation and print photos you achieve a truly dramatic effect. The process begins by you picking a card. There will be lots of different types of cards available. These act as the basis for you to then add your own personal touch. You select your card and then you begin the design process. When you visit this page the first thing you can do is add a photo to the card. You will be able to pick anything you want. A photo of you and your friend is a good option. The only thing you need to be mindful of is picking a photograph that will fit into the upload section. Add some unique photos as well, like flower photography using macro lenses, in order to create a unique design.

After you have picked your photography you can begin personalising the message you want to write in the card. You should give a lot of thought to this. Look up different sayings, write something special, or pick out a beautiful poem. If you are going to go down the personalised route then there is no point in going for anything generic, such as a simple ‘happy birthday’. You will also be able to pick the font you want as well, meaning you can put your creative skills to the test.

A lot of people deter from buying cards containing print photos because they worry that they will be too expensive. However, you will find that they are no more costly than standard cards. If you look online then you will probably be able to make some further savings as well. There are always frequent discounts on print photos for cards.

If you want to make your friend’s birthday a special one then take a look at the personalised print photo cards available on the internet today. You will be able to put the biggest smile on your mate’s face.

post may contain affiliate links

5 Reasons Technology Is The Most Important Facet Of Your Business

January 15, 2020



There are plenty of contenders for the number one spot in your business. Whether it’s money or employees, they all seem as important as each other on the face of it. However, delve deeper and you’ll find that investing in technology is without a doubt, the most vital facet of any company regardless of size.

With the correct tech, you and your business can benefit from the following. You might be able to replicate them via other means, but tech is an incredibly efficient and accessible medium. And, that’s what puts it above everything else, and why you should value it accordingly.

Improves Efficiency

One of the main reasons advancements in technology have skyrocketed in recent years is due to their impact on efficiency. As a rule, when integrated into your business plan, you’ll find that they open new doors that allow you to focus on other areas of the company without neglecting consumers.

For example, tech now allows you to easily take advantage of various online partner networks. A partner program gives you access to a huge network of other companies that can deal with the issues you are not well-versed in or take up too much of your valuable time. Perhaps you will partner with a third party that will streamline your company's IT equipment; take over and optimize your recruitment; be responsible for your payroll; or help you expand your business overseas, freeing you up to do whatever it is that you truly excel at, whether that be graphic design, providing excellent customer service, or running a restaurant.

Have you heard of chatbots? As far as artificial intelligence goes, they are fundamental and will soon be overtaken by far more sophisticated software. However, chatbots won’t become obsolete because they do the necessary jobs that you don’t have the time to complete. Whether it’s answering common questions and funneling browsers to the info they want, or acting as the front of house for the site, bots seamlessly add to the experience and add value.

You could hire someone to do it, but what’s the point? An employee would get bored and, therefore, not be as consistent as a chatbot. And, this is only one example; there are tons of them throughout the industry.

Boosts Communications

There are two elements to keep in mind. The first is how they help you to connect with new and old audiences. Consumers and followers need to feel loved, and, previously, it was tough as there weren’t many ways to stay in touch that wasn’t expensive and time-consuming. Social media has changed everything in this respect. Uploading automated messages and posts makes people feel special while responding to DMs provides a personal touch that reflects well on the business.

The second part is how colleagues communicate with each other. In the past, businesses would waste resources due to workers that would leave their desks to “confer” with their colleagues. Instead, they’d use it as an excuse to gossip and slack off. Instant messaging apps and email negate this element of corporate life. If people need to interact, a simple WhatsApp message will suffice.

Aside from efficiency, this tech also boosts productivity.

Remote Working

Some bosses aren’t keen on the idea of letting their employees work remotely. To them, it’s another way to do what they want without being productive. Although this can happen, the freedom and independence working remotely offers far outweighs the negatives. This is because employees can’t be treated as if they are in school or prison!

Your environment is going to have a considerable impact on their output levels, which is why you should try and make it as hospitable as possible. Of course, nothing is as homely as their home, so it makes sense to let them be productive from the comfort of their living room. Not only is the company’s productivity at stake, but so is your reputation. To attract the best candidates for new roles, you’ve got to have a good standing in the industry. Applicants that have leverage will look at things such as life/work balance before accepting any offers.

High-quality tech is one way you can ensure you strike the perfect balance for your employees.


Reduces Major Costs

Every entrepreneur knows how the right technology can reduce costs, but the focus is mainly on small ones. Yes, cutting your expenses, regardless of size, is essential if you’re going to stay in the black and out of the red. However, the ability to reduce big costs is what will provide you with the wriggle room needed to avoid going bankrupt.

Technology, among other things, helps to lower labor costs, one of the main expenses on your balance sheet. It does it by eliminating the people who are not needed, but it also offers access to cheaper markets. Remember the remote working aspect of technology? Well, the fact you can hire employees from around the world enables you to pay wages in line with that country’s legislation.

That’s why call centers and manufacturing factories are in Asia.

It’s Affordable

Lastly, all of the above is available at competitive prices. The latest trends aren’t cheap in the beginning, yet the prices fall dramatically after a couple of months.

It’s the beauty of a sector that is always reinventing itself and pushing boundaries!



Disney's Maleficent: Mistress of Evil Arrives on Digital 12/31 and Blu-ray 1/14

January 13, 2020


She Gives Evil a Good Name
Ring in the new year with Disney's most iconic villain when Maleficent: Mistress of Evil, starring Angelina Jolie, Elle Fanning, and Michelle Pfeiffer, arrives on Digital and Movies Anywhere December 31 and 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray and DVD January 14, 2020. The thrilling sequel to 2014's Maleficent will include brand-new bonus features, extended scenes, outtakes and an exclusive extra for Digital consumers.

“masterful performances” - Kirsten Acuna, Insider
"expands the world of Disney's retelling with high fantasy action" - Molly Freeman, Screen Rant

 


on Digital 4K Ultra HD™ and Movies Anywhere Dec. 31
and on 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray™ Jan. 14

Go beyond the fairy tale with bonus features highlighting the film’s stunning visuals and all-star cast, along with extended scenes, outtakes and a Digital exclusive.

Disney fans rejoice! Tomorrow is the big day! Get ready to bring home your very own copy of Disney's Maleficent: Mistress of Evil! We would Like to thank Disney's so much for sending our family an advanced copy to enjoy. This movie this everything our family loves about Disney magic! We loved it so much! This is a must-have for ALL Disney collectors! The movie is amazing and beautifully done!



Bonus features take viewers behind-the-scenes with the all-star cast to explore the making of “Maleficent: Mistress of Evil.” Extended scenes reveal how Queen Ingrith (Michelle Pfeiffer) manipulates Aurora into questioning Maleficient and accelerating her wedding plans. Featurettes include interviews with Jolie, who discusses Maleficent’s origins and the cast who portray the Fey, and Fanning, who gushes over Aurora’s fairytale wedding. Filmmakers showcase the visual effects behind the film’s stunning landscapes and the seemingly effortless flight of the Fey. Additional extras include “You Can’t Stop The Girl,” a music video performed by Bebe Rexha, and hilarious outtakes, ranging from uncooperative cats to uncontrollable giggles on set.

Fans who purchase “Maleficent: Mistress of Evil” on Digital will gain access to an exclusive extra in which fantasy-film veteran Warwick Davis divulges the backstory for his character, Lickspittle.

Directed by Joachim Rønning, “Maleficent: Mistress of Evil” carries on the story of Disney's most iconic villain. The years have been kind to Maleficent and Aurora. Their relationship, born of heartbreak, revenge and ultimately love, has flourished. Yet hatred between man and the fairies still exists. Aurora's impending marriage to Prince Philip is cause for celebration as the wedding serves to unite the Kingdom of Ulstead and the neighboring Moors. But, when an unexpected encounter introduces a powerful new alliance, Maleficent and Aurora are pulled apart to opposing sides in a Great War, testing their loyalties and causing them to question whether they can truly be a family.


Maleficent: Mistress of Evil” will be packaged and released in several different formats, ensuring each member of your family can enjoy it on a variety of different devices. Viewers can watch the film in Digital 4K Ultra HD, HD and SD, and bring home a physical copy of the film which will be released as an Ultimate Collector’s Edition (4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray and Digital Code), a Multi-Screen Edition (Blu-ray, DVD and Digital Code) and a single DVD. A Digital bundle with both “Maleficent” and “Maleficent: Mistress of Evil” will be available at preorder.

Bonus features include*:

DIGITAL EXCLUSIVE:
  • Lickspittle – Fantasy-film veteran Warwick Davis considers how every aspect of the film's design inspired his tragic character.
BLU-RAY & DIGITAL BONUS:
  • Extended Scenes
    • The Queen Comforts Aurora - Queen Ingrith takes advantage of Aurora’s fragile state to gain her confidence and accelerate the wedding plans.
    • Philip and Aurora Dance - Aurora struggles to gain Queen Ingrith’s approval when she realizes how she is viewed among aristocracy.
  • Featurettes
    • Origins of the Fey - Angelina Jolie discusses Maleficent’s lore, her newly discovered origins, and the diversity of the cast who portray the Fey.
    • Aurora’s Wedding - Elle Fanning gushes over Aurora’s fairytale wedding; plus, hear from some special guests as they give their best to the bride and groom.
    • If You Had Wings - Get a glimpse of the elaborate visual effects that allow the Fey to take to the skies.
    • Maleficent: Mistress of Evil” VFX Reel – Discover how a perfect blend of practical and visual effects were used to create the stunning landscapes in “Maleficent: Mistress of Evil.”
  • Outtakes - Uncooperative cats, a serious case of the giggles and even the “floss dance” found their way into Ulstead.
  • “You Can’t Stop The Girl” - Music video performed by Bebe Rexha
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS:
Product SKUs: 4K Ultra HD (4K UHD+Blu-ray+Digital Code), Multi-screen Edition (Blu-ray+DVD+Digital Code), DVD, Digital 4K UHD, HD, SD and On-Demand
Feature Run Time: Approximately 118 minutes
Rating: PG in U.S. (bonus material not rated); PG in C.E.; G in C.F.
Aspect Ratio: 2.39:1
Audio:
UHD Blu-ray = English Dolby Atmos; Spanish, German, Italian, Japanese and French 7.1 Dolby Digital Plus; French-Canadian Dolby Digital 5.1; English 2.0 Descriptive Audio
Blu-ray = English 7.1 DTS-HDMA, Spanish and French 5.1 Dolby Digital, English 2.0 Descriptive Audio
DVD = English, Spanish and French 5.1 Dolby Digital; English 2.0 Descriptive Audio
UHD Digital = English Dolby Atmos (some platforms); English, Spanish and French 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital; English Descriptive Audio 2.0 Dolby Digital (some platforms)
HD Digital = English, Spanish and French 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital; English Descriptive Audio 2.0 Dolby Digital (some platforms)
SD Digital = English, Spanish and French 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital; English Descriptive Audio 2.0 Dolby Digital (some platforms)
Languages/Subtitles:
UHD Blu-ray = English SDH, German, Italian, Japanese, Norwegian, Spanish, Swedish, French and French Canadian
Blu-ray = English SDH, French and Spanish
DVD = English SDH, French and Spanish
Digital = English SDH, French and Spanish
Closed Captions: English (DVD and Digital)

SOCIAL MEDIA:
Facebook: Facebook.com/DisneyMaleficent
Twitter: Twitter.com/Maleficent
Instagram: Instagram.com/DisneyMaleficent
Website: movies.disney.com/maleficent-mistress-of-evil

ABOUT MOVIES ANYWHERE:
Movies Anywhere simplifies and enhances the digital movie collection and viewing experience by allowing consumers to access their favorite digital movies in one place when purchased or redeemed through participating digital retailers. Movies Anywhere brings together the movies from Sony Pictures Entertainment, Twentieth Century Fox Film, Universal Pictures (including DreamWorks and Illumination Entertainment), The Walt Disney Studios (including Disney, Pixar, Marvel Studios and Lucasfilm), and Warner Bros. Participating digital retailers are iTunes. Amazon Prime Video, Comcast, Vudu, Google Play, Microsoft Movies & TV and FandangoNOW. Movies Anywhere offers a library of over 7,500 digital movies, including new releases, and will continue to expand the consumer experience as more content providers, digital retailers and platforms are added. Using the free Movies Anywhere app and website, consumers can connect their Movies Anywhere account with participating digital retailers and enjoy their favorite digital movies from the comfort of their living room and across multiple devices and platforms, including Amazon Fire devices; Android devices and Android TV; Apple TV; Chromecast; iPhone, iPad and iPod touch; Roku® devices, Windows 10 and Xbox devices; and popular browsers. Consumers can also redeem digital codes found in eligible Blu-ray Disc™ and DVD packages from participating studios and enjoy them through Movies Anywhere.

ABOUT THE WALT DISNEY STUDIOS:
For over 90 years, The Walt Disney Studios has been the foundation on which The Walt Disney Company was built. Today, the Studio brings quality movies, music and stage plays to consumers throughout the world. Feature films are released under the following banners: Disney, including Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios; Disneynature; Marvel Studios; and Lucasfilm. The Disney Music Group encompasses the Walt Disney Records and Hollywood Records labels, as well as Disney Music Publishing. The Disney Theatrical Group produces and licenses live events, including Disney on Broadway, Disney On Ice and Disney Live!

What’s With All the VPN Advertisements Lately?

If you spend any amount of time on YouTube, then may have come across something called a VPN, or virtual private network. Depending on the type of content you watch, you might find that a VPN is advertised in a number of different ways. For instance, someone you watch might say that a VPN is good for protecting yourself on the internet since it hides your data and keeps you safe. Others might say that it’s a good way to get cheaper flight tickets, and some will say that it unblocks services like Netflix so you can watch films that are exclusive to certain countries.

So in this post, we’re going to cover what a VPN can do for you and if you should consider signing up for one.


What can a VPN do for me?

To start, let’s talk about a VPN can be used for.
  1. To hide your browsing activity from your internet provider. Your internet provider can see all of your browsing data, so using a VPN can help you hide it if you feel more comfortable knowing that they’re not spying on you. The best vpn extension for chrome will hide your IP address, secure your web connections, unblock content, and keep your data safe from online snoopers.
  2. To use public Wi-Fi without the risk of viruses. Using public Wi-Fi comes with risks since your data is exposed to the public, but using a VPN will help secure your data and give you peace of mind.
  3. To unlock streaming content from other regions. Using a VPN to change your region can unlock lots of streaming content from services like Netflix.
  4. To bypass censorship. VPNs are commonly used when travelling to China so you can bypass their censorship and access western sites like Google.
  5. To stop websites from tracking you. If you don’t like the idea of websites saving your data, then a VPN will help you hide from their tracking.
  6. To get cheaper flights. VPNs can be used to get cheaper flights, but it does take a bit of research and trial and error.
As you can see, there are a lot of advantages to using a VPN. It’s not for everyone (since not everyone cares about hiding their browsing data or bypassing censorship) but it’s certainly a useful and inexpensive service to have.

Should I get a VPN?

If you have any use for a VPN then it’s actually very cheap to have one. In fact, websites like troypoint.com will explain how to use VPNs for specific use cases like unlocking video content on streaming sites. They’re incredibly easy to use and an annual subscription isn’t very expensive at all for the features it offers. Some of them might not support video streaming services, so it’s always a good idea to look at the features before purchasing a subscription.

Overall, VPN services are fantastic if you use the internet a lot and want full access to the web. However, it does take a bit of computer knowledge to use and it’s always best if you follow a guide to get it running and working on specific services.

So Your Proposal Was Accepted–What Now?

January 9, 2020

If you’ve recently proposed to your partner and they’ve accepted, then we’d like to start by saying congratulations! Proposing is tough and getting married is a huge commitment that will take some getting used to. However, it’s a brave move to make and can help you and your partner ultimately feel closer and eventually start your own family.

Unfortunately, most people don’t have a clue what to do next. Sure, you’ve overcome the big hurdle of actually proposing and being accepted, but now what? So in this comprehensive guide, we’re going to talk about what you should be thinking about and doing once your proposal has actually been accepted.




Cherish the memories

When you popped the big question, you definitely planned for your proposal to be photographed. This is a great way to ensure that you capture the moment. While the memories of that moment will remain forever, photographs will record the moment and capture her reaction. After all, everyone will want to hear the marriage proposal story, and the best way to do this is to tell the story through images.

Regardless of whether you hired a professional photographer to capture the moment, your fiancée may not like some of the surprise proposal photos. This is mainly because the images may depict some of the things she won’t like about herself; for instance, her dull eyes, stray hair, and skin tone, among other things. Therefore, you may want to edit these images to her taste before you put them up on the walls. To polish up those images quickly, you can use the Greater Than Gatsby photoshop actions application. Moreover, you can use the edited images to style wedding invitations.

1. Don’t panic!

It’s easy to start getting worried about the future of your relationship. Maybe some negative thoughts are on your mind, or perhaps you’re concerned about the cost of a wedding. Maybe you’re not sure if you can provide a fairytale-like wedding for your partner, or perhaps you’re just concerned about the logistics of a wedding. Whatever the case may be, it’s fine to feel a bit of panic immediately after your proposal was accepted, but you should still focus on calming down so you can stay level-headed and start planning your wedding.

One of the important things to do is to keep your mind off the negatives. Focus on positives, such as the excitement that your friends and family will feel once you announce your wedding. Think about all the personalization you can include in your wedding once you’ve decided on things like a venue. Think about the big day and finally being wedded to your partner for life.

2. Gather inspiration for your wedding

If you want a really special wedding to remember, then we suggest gathering inspiration for your wedding by seeking out different ideas and concepts. Websites like Pinterest are fantastic if you’re looking to inspire yourself as they can provide you with an endless number of ideas to play around with. You should also consider picking up a couple of magazines and books related to weddings. Just try and make sure that they’re up-to-date books and not sources that were relevant a decade ago! Of course, if you’re aiming to get a vintage look to your wedding, then this can be a great option!.

It’s good to remember that you should be actually gathering inspiration, not just looking around. This means saving pictures and websites to a scrapbook, keeping a list of inspirational ideas and also sharing them with your partner to see what could work. You want to build up a list of ideas and ultimately work towards a fantastic wedding experience that you can both be proud of creating.

Inspiration is important since it helps give you a sense of direction in planning. You can always skip the inspiration phase if you’re not bothered about the overall theme and look of your wedding, but we highly recommend shaping your wedding into your own vision. This will truly give you a day to remember if you get it right!




3. Set yourself a budget for your wedding

As much as we’d love to spend an infinite amount of money on our wedding, we simply can’t do that unless we’re extremely rich. Even if you’re considered fairly wealthy, it’s never a bad idea to set a budget or at least start thinking about your financial situation and how your wedding will affect it.

This is where you should start thinking about how you can not only save money to spend on your wedding but also earn more income so that you can pay for special things related to your wedding. For example, if your husband-to-be has been dreaming of taking some friends to ones of the best international bachelor party destinations, you'll want to make sure that you're able to make this happen for his final night out as a single man. You should ideally have been saving money prior to the proposal as well so that you don’t need to save up cash for over a year before you can afford a special wedding.

Of course, it’s worth mentioning that you don’t need to splash out your cash for a wedding if you’re not in a position to do it. Fancy weddings are a lot of fun, but there’s nothing stopping you from planning a budget wedding. There are plenty of wedding ideas on a budget that you can take advantage of if you’re trying to stay within certain monetary constraints, so don’t assume that you have to spend a lot of money on a wedding.

Thinking about your financial situation early on can also help you figure out if anyone’s willing to help you pay for your wedding. For instance, your parents might be willing to help ease some of the costs once you’ve got a solid plan in mind.

4. Start the legal proceedings

You’d be surprised at how many couples forget about obtaining a marriage license to actually make their wedding official. There are different requirements depending on the place you plan to get married, so make sure you look up all of the legal stuff as early as possible to get it out of the way. This is usually pretty simple if you’re looking to get married in your home country, but if you want to get married abroad then you may run into some legal issues that can usually be sorted out by a legal professional or even a wedding planner.



5. Start planning your wedding

With a budget in mind and lots of inspiration at hand, it’s time to actually start planning your wedding. There are far too many things to cover in just a single post, so we’re going to go through some of the most important planning considerations. Keep in mind that these are not in any particular order!

  • Pick a date. The date is going to be extremely important for a number of reasons such as venue and service availability. However, this is the very first thing that you want to define because your entire planning process is going to revolve around it. You can’t start making adjustments to the date because one service isn’t available on a particular day. You need to set this and stick with it.
  • Choosing your assistants. Whether it’s bridesmaids, groomsmen, best men or your matron of honour, it’s a good time to start picking your ideal assistants and asking if they’d be willing to take on the role. It’s going to involve a lot of work on their part, so make sure they’re reliable, trustworthy and most importantly, close to you.
  • Create your guest list. You’ll want to keep this organized in something like a spreadsheet so you can easily see who’s coming at a glance. Write down everyone’s name that you actually plan to invite, then go through the list with close friends and family members to ensure you’ve got everyone.
  • Start preparing wedding invitations to send to your guests. You can either create these on your own or consider hiring a professional that will not only help you design a card or message, but also send them to each and every guest that you plan to invite. Doing this early means that you’ll get a rough idea of how many people will be attending, and it also gives your guests plenty of time to take the day off and plan their journey.
  • Start scouting for venues. Now that you have a budget and inspiration in mind, you can start thinking about the overall theme of your wedding and what type of venue you want to be looking for. There are many popular venues that have waiting lists of several months or even years, so make sure you book as early as possible. However, don’t be hasty when it comes to picking; instead, consider everything such as the location, logistics of getting there and also your catering options in the local area. Destination weddings are also worth considering is a great choice for your special day.
  • Plan your entertainment. This is something that will grow and change as you plan your wedding, but it’s always a good idea to start thinking about the different forms of entertainment that you want to include in your wedding. You can make this list as big as you want. Again, try and keep it organized in something like a spreadsheet and also write down a list of vendors and services that you could contact.
  • Plan any pre-wedding events. Whether it’s an engagement party, bachelor parties or hen nights, you want to start planning any pre-wedding events that are going to take place shortly before the big day. You want to try and book these early so that the guests attending have plenty of time to prepare and book those days off if they land on a workday.
  • Choose your wedding bands. As a symbol of your marriage, you’re expected to wear your wedding ring and only take it off when absolutely needed. You’ll want to pick a beautiful pair of wedding bands to commemorate the occasion, so don’t forget this!

Some final words

All of these wedding planning considerations can be made easier if you hire a planner. They’ll usually take care of most of the important tasks and simply present you with choices after you’ve made your own suggestions. Even if you want full control of your wedding, a planner can still offer invaluable advice and help you manage your wedding-related concerns.

We hope that this article has given you some useful information on what you should be doing immediately after your proposal has been accepted!


Bundle Up At Macy's Flash Sale

January 7, 2020

This post is sponsored by Savings.com.

Good morning y'all and congratulations! We all survived the holiday season! What better way to start a new year with a great sale? Today Only! Up to 70% Off Men's Coats & Jackets at Macy's
  • Promo Code: FLASH
  • Valid 1/7/20 Only
  • Restrictions may apply.
These are just a few of our top picks from this AWESOME sale!


Cole Haan Wool-Blend Coat
This wool-blend coat from Cole Haan features a refined faux-leather trim to give you a stylish addition to your wardrobe.
  • Faux-leather trim detail
  • Button-front closure
  • Left and right single wale pocket entry
  • Lined
  • Approximate length: 34"
  • Shell: wool/polyester/viscose; lining and fill: polyester
  • Dry clean

Tommy Hilfiger Short Snorkel Coat, Created for Macy's
Brave the chilly temperatures in this short snorkel coat with attached faux-fur hood from Tommy Hilfiger.
  • Attached hood with removable faux-fur trim with double closure option
  • Full-zip front closure
  • Two upper handwarmer pockets; two snap pockets with double entry option side and top
  • Knit storm cuffs with zipper and button closure
  • Tommy Hilfiger logo patch on wearer's left arm
  • 100% polyester filler
  • Shell: polyester/cotton; Lining and fill:: Polyester; knit: acrylic/polyester/spandex; faux fur: acrylic/modacrylic/polyester
  • Machine washable and faux fur dry clean

Levi's Men's Cotton Zip-Front Jacket
Levi's® uses both flap-close pockets and a zip-close pocket at the left chest to create the modern look of this cotton jacket, styled with a full zipper closure and a snap placket at the front.
  • Approx. model height is 6'1" and he is wearing a size medium
  • Mid-weight
  • Stand collar
  • Front zip closure with snap placket
  • Shell: cotton; lining: polyester
  • Machine washable

Tommy Hilfiger Men's Quilted Puffer Jacket, Created for Macy's
Ribbed-knit storm cuffs add warmth to this wind and water-resistant puffer jacket from Tommy Hilfiger, designed with an attached hood lined with cozy micro-fleece for a soft touch.
  • Approx. model height is 6'1" and he is wearing a size medium
  • Heavyweight
  • Front zip closure
  • Stand collar with attached drawstring hood
  • Hand pockets at sides; interior pocket
  • Tommy Hilfiger logo flag embroidery at chest
  • Created for Macy's
  • Shell, lining, and filler: polyester
  • Machine washable
These are some really great deals but remember this flash sale is today only at Macy's!