CBD and Cocktails: What You Should Know

Mixed drinks are fun to make and even more fun to drink. Everyone has their go-to cocktail for an evening out or a date night in.

To spice the occasional cocktail up a little, people have started to throw CBD into the mix. It is nearly undetectable in alcoholic beverages except for the effects it has on the body and mind.

CBD seems to be great for enhancing relaxation, reducing stress, and a number of other benefits. It is typically taken in its oil form, though more creative methods of ingestion keep appearing.

If you already take CBD, adding a few drops to your favorite cocktail could help you experience something new.

If you are new to using CBD, try using it without alcohol first before getting crafty. There is a bit to know about CBD and cocktails first!

CBD in Cocktails

With all the uses for CBD that already exist, it is no surprise that people are still getting creative in the ways that they use it.

Mixing CBD in cocktails is a fun way that CBD lovers are reaping the benefits of their favorite supplements.

No matter what your drink of choice is, adding a few drops of CBD can help you wind down at the end of a long day.

CBD won’t make you high, but it will help you relax, especially when combined with alcohol. A drink with CBD is highly customizable because you can add as much or as little as you prefer.

When you first start adding CBD to your cocktails, it is a good idea to start small. Add just one drop at first to see how you react, then increase your dose if you find it necessary.

Have fun creating the mixed drinks you love with a little CBD!

Current Uses For CBD

People use CBD for a variety of reasons, finding it effective at alleviating many of the symptoms they suffer from.

Currently, the only FDA-approved CBD product is a medication used to treat a form of epilepsy in children. Research has proven that CBD can reduce the occurrence of seizures in many cases.

Other CBD products are commonly used to reduce the effects of anxiety, insomnia, arthritis, and serious illnesses like cancer. Some studies seem to show that CBD can reduce the discomfort often associated with chemotherapy.

To help lessen chronic pain, CBD is often rubbed into the skin in lotion or oil form. Even the severe pains from arthritis can be reduced with a CBD product.

There seems to be so much that CBD can do. Adding a bit to the cocktails you love could help you feel these benefits.

CBD, Cocktails, and Stress

The anxiety-reducing properties of CBD make it a great tool for stress relief. Everyone experiences the symptoms of stress for a variety of unique reasons that CBD might be able to help with.

Many people also use their favorite alcoholic beverages as a way to calm down and lessen anxiety. Blending the two can make for a great combination that enhances stress relief.

Some CBD in the morning and a cocktail before bed might help, but adding CBD to the evening drink will improve sleep because of its calming effects.

Snacks that contain CBD are another popular choice for stress relief. These can easily be made at home or purchased in-store, depending on preference.

In highly stressful times, CBD oil can offer quick relief. Stay calmer before exams, long flights, or the busy day ahead.

Future Directions of CBD

Research on CBD continues in hopes of finding more positive effects of the supplement. Every day, new benefits are being questioned that can help make CBD more widely accepted.

Recently, the effects of CBD on children with autism (ASD) have come into question. According to CBD Kyro, CBD seems to reduce symptoms of disorders that are often associated with ASD.

While there is not a treatment for ASD and CBD will not likely become one, it can help reduce many of the negative behaviors that come hand in hand with ASD.

ASD behaviors often include poor communication skills and high anxiety. Studies have seen these decrease with the introduction of CBD.

Because it interacts with parts of the brain, there is a good chance that CBD can alter the way ASD manifests in many patients.

So much research still has to take place before CBD can be approved as a safe and fully effective method of alleviating symptoms of ASD, but it is on the right track!

In addition to autism, CBD is also being considered as an option for treatment for other serious disorders that affect the brain.

CBD might positively affect tumors, diabetes, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, schizophrenia, and many other serious ailments.

The research never stops when it comes to finding the right treatments for otherwise untreatable health concerns.

If CBD could be a possible answer, studies will continue to be conducted to help make a positive change.

How To Use CBD

Mixing CBD into your daily cocktail is not the only method to feel its effects, though it might be one of the most fun ones.

It is common to find CBD in oil form, which can be dropped underneath the tongue or directly rubbed into the skin.

It can also be eaten in snack form or applied as a lotion or facial moisturizer. Depending on what you need it for, the method you use might change.

Another popular form of CBD is the CBD tincture, which tends to have a higher CBD content and work a little faster.

If you are first starting to use CBD, take it to slow using one of the more popular methods. As you find out the amount of CBD that suits you best, then you can try mixing things up into a drink.

No matter what way you find works best for you, CBD could have a positive impact on the way you feel every day.

Adding a little CBD into your cocktails is a fun way to feel the benefits of the supplement. It can do so much for you and the people you care about no matter how it is taken.

7 Things to Know Before a Weekend Trip to Chicago

The excitement of planning a trip and experiencing a new place is unlike any other feeling. Even short weekend getaways are full of fun without being away from home for too long.

With so many destinations to visit around the world, it seems impossible to choose the perfect one for a single trip.

Chicago is one popular place to visit if you are looking for the right spot to spend a fun-filled weekend.

There is so much to do in Chicago, but a weekend is just the right amount of time to enjoy everything it has to offer.

This beautiful city appeals to crowds of all shapes and sizes, from large families to couples looking for a romantic getaway.

Before enjoying a few days of history and new culture, these seven tips can help you make sure you have the most successful trip possible.

There Are Options For Getting There

Possibly one of the most challenging parts of booking a vacation is deciding how to get there. For a weekend trip, this sometimes proves even more challenging because of the short length of time.

Luckily, no matter where you are coming from, there is a way to get to Chicago. There are a few airports in the city that make accessing it simple from all over.

The airports in Chicago are close to many popular locations, making it easy to get your trip started.

If you aren’t a fan of flying, there are also modes of public transportation that can get you from place to place in Chicago.

Making the drive isn’t so bad either. There is plenty of parking in the city, or you can use rideshare services and leave your car at the hotel!

If you want to experience Chicago, the way you get there shouldn’t be a reason to worry. There are plenty of ways to get to and from the city that are easy to use!

Spend Time Along the Lakefront

A huge draw of Chicago is its proximity to Lake Michigan. The views are stunning and the waterfront attractions are unbeatable.

You can enjoy walks or bike rides along the lakeside or reserve a table at a lakefront restaurant.

Navy Pier should also be on the must-visit list. According to Cool Things Chicago, Navy Pier is one of the most popular sports in the city that offers a unique lakefront experience.

The pier features dining, historic attractions, and a Ferris wheel! Families of all ages can enjoy the museum and theater that are part of Navy Pier as well.

A trip to Chicago would not be complete without spending some time by the water. It makes a great place for photo opportunities or just a relaxing time away from home.

You Won’t Go Hungry

One of the most exciting parts of traveling is having the chance to try all new foods. Luckily, Chicago is full of different restaurants and bars to satisfy all your cravings.

Many well-known restaurants can be found along Chicago streets. Italian, seafood, Mexican, and more will keep you from feeling hungry.

While you won’t go hungry, you might struggle to choose where to eat. Planning ahead is fun, but it can also be thrilling to just make a spur of the moment decision.

As you are walking through the city, think about stopping into a restaurant you happen to pass. You might just find an amazing hidden gem along the way!

Find the Right Place to Stay

Where you choose to stay on your weekend adventure is probably largely determined by who you are traveling with and the budget you’ve set.

It is important to remember that not all vacation rentals and hotels are made equal. Hotels might be great for couples or small families, but renting a condo might be better for the families that need more space.

You should also consider the accommodations that you will need. Many hotels in the city offer free transportation to and from the airports if that is something you require.

On the other hand, renting a larger space will mean having a kitchen to cook your own meals if you are traveling with picky eaters.

Always look to be as comfortable as you can when you are staying away from home. There are options to make sure you have a trip that works for you.

Bring Your Walking Shoes

There is so much to do in Chicago, but luckily, you can walk to it all! Everything in the city is walkable, so you won’t have to spend money to get around once you arrive.

Bring comfortable shoes so the long days on your feet aren’t so treacherous. Also, make sure to take breaks during your travels to rest no matter how much you want to keep moving.

There are parks in Chicago where you can unwind on a bench or enjoy a picnic lunch. Let your feet relax while you still enjoy the surrounding city.

While sandals or boots might look great with your outfit, reconsider that choice if you’ll be on your feet for the whole day.

Prepare For All Weather

Chicago is also known as the Windy City, so prepare for any weather that could make a surprise visit during your trip.

Rain, wind, or sun are all possible! Look ahead at the forecasts to make sure you prepare appropriately.

It isn’t a bad idea to pack a raincoat and umbrella just in case an unexpected storm comes through. A windbreaker and some warmer layers might also be useful to have on hand because of the water breeze.

Don’t let the weather put a damper on your fun. You can still enjoy Chicago from inside!

There Is Something To Do For Everyone

The many attractions in Chicago make it a great place for all types of travelers. Young couples, large families, and older folk can take in the beauty and enjoy themselves equally.

Adults can enjoy the bars and the history that is on every street. There are also parks and amusements for the kids, like an interactive museum and an aquarium.

No matter what you might enjoy, you will find something that you love in a city that seems to have it all.

Chicago is the perfect place for a weekend getaway if you know how to do it right. Following these tips could help make sure your trip is one that you will remember for a lifetime.

The Dos and Don’ts of Giving Wine as a Gift

Some people have gift-giving down to an exact science, but it is much more common to struggle to find the perfect gift for any loved one.

Gifts should show you appreciate a person, but should also remain within a budget. It can be really tough to do that when everything perfect seems too expensive.

A popular gift that truly shows how much you care is a nice bottle of wine and possibly some accessories that go along with it.

Buying wine for someone isn’t always an easy task, either. If you spend a tone of time staring at all the shelves in a liquor store before deciding, there are ways to avoid that!

Whether it is for a graduation, a 21st birthday, or a housewarming party, the bottle of wine you choose has to be perfect.

Check out these dos and don’ts of giving wine as a gift to help you make a perfect choice.

DO Get What They Like

Wine tends to be an acquired taste. Not everyone loves it, but many people enjoy a glass with dinner every night.

The wine drinkers of the world definitely know their favorites and aren’t always keen on switching up the routine.

Make sure to know exactly what kind of wine they enjoy. Not only should you know the type, but oftentimes the brand matters as well.

If you aren’t totally sure about what wine they enjoy, ask someone who does. A friend, significant other, or parent might have a better idea so you can be sure about your purchase.

If you really can’t find out the wine that they prefer, a gift card to a store where they can buy it is the perfect alternative.

Taking a risk might not always pay off, especially when it comes to giving a gift so specific.

DON’T Try Something New

Some people love trying new drinks, while others like to stick to what they know best. If you are giving wine as a gift, you should make every effort to choose something they like.

Giving a bottle of wine that sounds good to you might not be the best for someone else. Every type of wine has its own distinct taste and not everyone loves every kind.

Randomly choosing a bottle is always risky because it might not be something they like. If they don’t drink it, it will be a waste and will just collect dust on a shelf somewhere.

For notoriously picky drinkers, it is a better choice to give something wine-related, like a bottle opener or drinking glasses.

Be careful about the bottles you buy. Make sure what you choose is right for the person that you love!

DO Make Drinking Wine More Fun

There is more to wine than just the drink itself. The place you store it, the way you open it, and the glass you drink it out of are all part of the wine experience.

According to the writers at Gift Wits, there are many accessories that make drinking wine easier and a little bit more fun.

Corkscrews and stoppers, cork trimmers, and wine carriers are all necessities for the serious wine lover in your life.

The hardest part about giving wine accessories as a gift is choosing which ones are the right fit. It could take a little sleuthing to find out what the recipient already has and what they could make the most use of.

At the end of the day, a true wine lover will appreciate anything you think of that will make their wine drinking game even stronger.

DON’T Get Anything Too Big

Wine drinking accessories are exciting to purchase and to watch your loved ones open, though you do have to be careful about what you decide to give.

Some wine-related gifts tend to be on the larger side and take up a lot of space. Wine coolers and liquor cabinets are useful for some but might be too big for others.

Even though you could see yourself getting a lot of use out of a  liquor cabinet in your own home, it isn’t always a good idea to give something so large as a gift.

You don’t know if they need it or if they even have the space for it. When you get the idea to purchase a gift that is related to wine, just try to keep from getting too carried away.

The small gifts are often the most fun to use and the most accessible for everyone!

Be Creative

Giving a gift for any reason should come with a little bit of thinking outside the box. The more creative a gift, the less likely the recipient is to already have it.

A way you can really make sure your loved one doesn’t already have the gift you plan to give is by creating it yourself.

Design do-it-yourself wine glasses or gift bags that relate to something they love or a hobby that they have.

DIY isn’t for everyone, but it is a fun way to surprise your friend with a heartfelt gift. Matching wine glasses are a popular way to show your friendship off! 

The perfect gift might only come about if you create it yourself. It will be one of a kind way to show how much you care.

DON’T Spend Too Much Money

No matter how much you love and appreciate the person you are giving a gift to, you have to make sure to stick to a feasible budget. Even if they deserve the world you can’t break the bank on one celebration!

Wine especially can get expensive. You want to make sure you purchase a nice bottle and wrap it beautifully, but you don’t want to spend way too much on a drink.

There are budget-friendly bottles of wine that still taste great for wine lovers to enjoy. You can also stick with a few accessories instead of a whole bottle to still feed into their love of wine.

Don’t get scared away by the high price tag on some wine bottles. There are plenty of options to make a special day even better!

Wine makes the perfect gift for many occasions, as long as you give it in the right way. Find the bottle they love or the accessories they need to make sure you help turn the celebration into a success.

How to Increase the Value of your property by starting in the kitchen

When it’s time to move home, there are many areas of home renovation that can add significant value to your property. 

When it comes to investments, some will see laser hair removal as a skincare investment, others will put their money into their homes.  

But how can you make sure that you’re making worthwhile investments and making sure you get the best possible return on these investments? This starts in the kitchen- the room with the most value per square footage. 

Here are some of the things you may need to consider when renovating the kitchen to ensure you get the best price for your home.

Install new cabinets

Custom kitchen cabinets are often the first thing that gives away the age of a kitchen, and how long it had been since the last renovation. Opt for a classic wood finish for a timeless look. If you’re looking for functionality, install larger cabinets to store large goods such as vacuum cleaners and cookware. Why not have some door-less cupboards that can be used as extra storage for books? Paying extra attention to these details will keep potential buyers happy. 

If you’re looking for functionality, install larger custom kitchen cabinets to store large goods such as vacuum cleaners and cookware. Why not have some door-less cupboards that can be used as extra storage for books? Paying extra attention to these details will keep potential buyers happy.

Invest in new countertops

A good option for new countertops is a strong and hardy material such as granite, which will give a kitchen, or even an entire apartment, a more finished, newly-renovated look. 

Granite tops are durable and can withstand everyday use, as well as being resistant to heat, scratches, and stains. 

Don’t Forget the Small Details

Make sure you complete the look by adding some inexpensive, but thoughtful touches. Replace that annoying sounding dripping faucet- which will also save money in water bills over time. 

Want to provide extra space and something that will make your home stand out from the others? Get a wet bar installation for added function and style for larger living spaces that could still benefit with added function and style. 

Paint 

There’s nothing worse for a prospective buyer to see when walking through a home than seeing paint peeling off the drywall. Pay attention to paintwork.  Remember to keep walls neutral as this keeps walls natural as this gives potential buyers a blank canvas to help them to envision their future homes. 

Flooring 

Other renovation projects can create a lot of dust and dirt, so the last thing you would want is a dirty stained or scratched floor following a renovation project. For this reason, you should do this step last, before the appliances are added. 

Hardwood flooring is a highly popular material to replace previous floors. This is because it looks good and is easy to clean. Carpet, though a good option for bedrooms only, is a less popular option when it comes to rental properties as they are harder to clean and often trap smells. 

When it comes to selling a home, there are some very simple ways that can increase the value of the property. Paying extra attention to these areas can make a huge difference in the amount you bring back from a sale. 

The Most Comfortable Sneakers for Exploring Your New Neighborhood

Welcome to the neighborhood! Before you go exploring (and possibly get lost), you're going to need the most comfortable sneakers you can find.

Moving to a new city is exciting. The promise of adventures and new friends is enough to make anyone enraptured with the thought of hitting the town!

But when you're out exploring your new neighborhood, you're going to need the proper equipment to get you from one place to another. Most importantly, you're going to need some stylish and comfortable street shoes!

Here are some of the most comfortable sneakers to wear while exploring your neighborhood!

Air Jordan 18

If you're looking for fashionable men's shoes that go well with athletic outfits and casual streetwear, these pairs of Air Jordan 18 shoes will get the job done! The sporty designs range in color, so you can plan an outfit accordingly.

Created to play basketball in, these are among the most stylish and comfortable sneakers due to their vast designs and durability.

Dr. Scholl's Freestep

For women who want to go for a sporty look, Dr. Scholl's Freestep sneakers are cute and cozy.

Perfect for a day of exploring new shops and restaurants, this sneaker is lightweight, durable, and able to wick moisture away from your feet, allowing you to feel comfortable for hours!

We help simplify your shopping experience with fast shipping and easy returns, along with great deals on all your favorite brands - https://www.brandhousedirect.com.au/

Orthofeet Sprint

If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, you likely need more support and protection for your pressure points, especially when walking on pavement all day.

The Orthofeet Sprint sole is designed to remove the stress on your joints while improving your alignment. It also has the added benefit of propelling you forward with each step due to the air cushioning soles, making your day a walk in the park!

Vionic Keke

If you prefer a sneaker that's on the chic side, look no further! This feminine design has all the style you'll need to pair it perfectly with your outfits.

Designed by a podiatrist, these are some of the most comfortable fashion sneakers that will hug your arches and support your alignment all day!

Vans Slip-Ons

If your look is on the edgy side, and you don't want to sacrifice style for durability, Vans Slip-Ons will help you make that happen!

A go-to choice for men and women alike, these shoes are light due to the canvas material, yet still able to endure long walks due to the thick soles. With a wide array of designs, finding a pair that suits your sense of style shouldn't be too difficult!

New Balance 997

If you want to be prepared for lots of hiking, a New Balance 997 can help!

Among the most comfortable shoes you can buy, these supportive sneakers have designs for men, women, and children. Choose from a variety of colors and designs! There's bound to be something that'll suit your tastes.

The Best Cities to Visit in Russia

By area, Russia is the biggest country on the planet covering a total of 11 different time zones. It is also one of just a few nations that span two continents, stretching from the borders of the European Union and the coast of Baltic Sea in the West, to the border with China in the East. 

It’s a country with cities that remain permanently under snow and ice, while others melt under the heat of the summer sun. And although Russian is the only official federal language, there are 35 other languages that are considered “co-official” in certain regions of the country, and a further 100 unofficial tongues.

It is steeped in history, with the first Russian Czar Peter the Great creating the first Navy and establishing the new Russian capital, St. Petersburg. So we can see that it is evident that this country is not only a historical giant but it also a place where many have traveled throughout time to add to its diversity.

With so much diversity, there is a lot to see in Russia, with each city serving up unique sights, landmarks and culinary delights. This can make it difficult to choose where to start, so here are the cities to put at the top of your list.

Moscow

Moscow is the Russian capital and can trace its roots back more than 900 years. It is one of the most commonly visited cities, with it and St Petersburg attracting the most international tourists. 

Many of the famous landmarks that make Russia famous are found in Moscow, including St Basil’s Cathedral, Red Square and the Kremlin. These are all conveniently located next to each other, making sightseeing easy.

There’s much more in the city though, such as a range of museums and art galleries that show off Russia’s rich cultural history, including works from Leo Tolstoy, Alexander Pushkin, and Karl Bryullov. Moscow is also where you’ll find the city’s famous Bolshoi Theatre.

Moscovites love spending time outdoors with their friends, so you’ll find plenty of outdoor space to enjoy the hot summer weather, including Gorky Park and the VDNKh outdoor exhibition centre. 

Sochi

Sochi hosts many of Russia's international sporting events. It was made famous in 2014 when it hosted the Winter Olympics, and then again in 2018 when it hosted some of the World Cup games. It's not just these one-off events that take place in the city though. Every year it hosts a round of the FIA Formula 1 World Championship and a round of the European Poker Tour by PokerStars. 

Located on the coast of the Black Sea, Sochi is a beach resort that attracts many domestic tourists. It’s a great place to catch some rays and take a dip, so remember to pack your beachwear. It’s also a ski resort, with large slopes just a short car journey away from the coast. Few places epitomize Russia’s diverse geography and climate like Sochi. 

St Petersburg

St Petersburg served as the country’s capital for a large part of the Russian Empire’s existence. It was built on top of swampland, mostly by hand, and was designed to create a capital city that was more European than any other part of the country. 

Today, St Petersburg is the unofficial cultural capital of Russia. The city is home to over 200 museums, including the historic State Hermitage Museum, housed inside the Winter Palace on the bank of the Neva River. It’s also got over 50 theaters, including the Mariinsky Theatre, home of the famous Mariinsky Ballet company. 

During June, the sun never sets on St Petersburg, creating a phenomenon known as the White Nights. It’s a surreal experience to be walking down Nevsky Prospekt at 2 AM and it being as bright as midday, although it can also be frustrating when you can’t get to sleep. 

Yekaterinburg

Yekaterinburg is the fourth biggest city in the country, growing out of the banks of the Iset River in the 300 years since its founding. It’s unique because it’s located on the border between Europe and Asia, with several monuments in and around the city where tourists can stand with a foot in each continent. 

Like other cities, Yekaterinburg is filled with many museums, showing off exhibits ranging from fine art to stone ornaments. It’s also where you’ll find the Boris Yeltsin Presidential Center. 

Yekaterinburg has a mix of imperial, Soviet, and modern architecture, helping to show how the city has developed and grown through history. A good example of this is the Central Stadium, constructed originally in 1957, which was given a major upgrade in 2017 ahead of the FIFA World Cup in 2018. 

This gives it a blend of all three eras, including columns found in many imperialist buildings, the statues commonly found in Soviet architecture, and modern facilities that you expect from world-leading stadia. 

Just by exploring these cities, you could easily spend months and still have more to see and do. Russia is a country that continues to offer up surprises and interesting sights. You won’t be disappointed by visiting any of the destinations on this list.