Fatherhood Factor

For all the "dealings" of dads...

Emily Joswiak

5 Signs You Need to Lose Weight

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There are many reasons why it’s important to stay healthy, especially when you are a parent. Take some time to take care of yourself so you can be around for years to come. Besides seeing the scale move up, be wary of the signs you need to lose weight—learn more ahead.

1. You’re Always Tired

The first sign that you are overweight is that you find you are always tired, even when you get seven to eight hours of sleep. Not having the energy to get through the day is likely due to having a poor diet. When you get the appropriate nutrients you need, you won’t feel groggy.

2. You Snore

Another sign you need to lose weight is if your loved one has to deal with your snoring. When we gain weight, we tend to do so in our neck. Snoring can be dangerous because it’s a sign that you could be suffering from sleep apnea, which means you aren’t breathing as you sleep.

3. You’re Always Hungry

When you eat a meal, you should feel satisfied afterward. However, if you find yourself looking for that next meal right after you finish one because you are still hungry, you are likely gaining weight. Adopting a healthy diet and portion control might be a change you need to make.

4. You Have a Big Waist

If you find your clothes becoming tighter and tighter, this is an easy sign you need to lose weight. Unless you are purposely building muscle, you shouldn’t have a large waistline. The appropriate waistline depends on your height, so it’s different for everyone.

5. You’re Always in Pain

When you don’t exercise and work your body, then it usually leads to pain. If joints such as your knees, hips, and back hurt often, it’s time to get more physically active. If you haven’t worked out in years, ease your way back into it and you will be fit in no time.

If you do notice any of these signs, the best thing you can do is see your doctor and have them confirm your health status.

Best-Selling Paint Colors for Mustangs

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The Mustang has gone through many color changes during the years. From its original Wimbledon White to today’s rainbow of color options, there is something for any Mustang enthusiast. For the type of father looking to buy himself a fast, new car, know these best-selling paint colors for Mustangs. These are the current color options for the sixth generation 2018 Mustangs. Newer models may offer different color options than these.

Shadow Black

Shadow Black is a rich, dark color that adds some serious depth to your Mustang. Since 1975, black has remained a staple in the vehicle’s history. Interestingly, the first generation of Mustang (1964-1971) offered Raven Black but it wasn’t popular with consumers. Therefore, from 1972 to 1974, black wasn’t even a color option. While its shade changed during its years, black didn’t become popular amongst Mustang owners until 1994 when it became one of the top three colors.

Race Red and Ruby Red

This is an iconic color for the sports car. It’s no surprise, given that a red car is a natural head-turner. Roughly one in five customers purchases a red Mustang. If that weren’t enough, to prove its popularity, Ford has released over 140 different shades of red in the car’s lifetime. For those who want a deeper and not-so-obvious shade of red, another popular choice is Ruby Red. This is a darker crimson that can look simultaneously aggressive and majestic.

Lightning Blue and Kona Blue

Blue is another very popular color. The two shades on the market today are Lightning Blue and Kona Blue. Lightning Blue, like Race Red, offers an obvious blue color to any recent model of Mustang. It’s impossible to miss on the road. Many owners opt for a white stripe across the top to accent the car’s exterior. Kona Blue is similar, but not as intense. It’s a bit darker than Lightning Blue, almost an indigo shade. While it might not pop as much as the Lightning Blue, the Kona Blue is still striking.

Oxford White

White was one of the original colors used in the first generation of Mustangs, so it makes sense that it’s still a sought-after color. A neutral color like Oxford White is a natural color option for a sports car. Not to mention, white is extremely versatile. You can add any color stripe or accessory to your vehicle, and it will only improve your ride’s look.

Magnetic Metallic and Ingot Silver

For those looking for a solid base color, you can’t go wrong with Magnetic Metallic and Ingot Silver. These are approximately a grey and silver, respectively, which are great base colors alone. These don’t need racing stripes or additional color options to improve their aesthetics, because there’s nothing to improve. These are serious colors from the jump.

Triple Yellow and Orange Fury

Last on this list, Triple Yellow and Orange Fury offer intense, bright visuals wherever you drive. Both are commonly neglected Mustang colors, but these are truly standout shades. How often does one see a yellow or orange car? Like many of the other colors on this list, you can add any color stripe to improve these base colors’ appeal.

5 Tips for Remodeling Your Garage

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A garage is meant to be primarily a storage place for your vehicles, lawnmower, bikes, and other large outdoor items. However, so many people use only for storage and can’t get the proper use out of it. With a packed garage, your car suffers during the winter and it becomes incredibly difficult to find items you need. If this is the case for you, here are some tips for remodeling your garage.

Take Everything Out

When remodeling your garage, the first thing you should do is take every item out of the garage and go through everything. This is the perfect opportunity to toss unnecessary junk that has been sitting in your garage and taking up a ton of space.

Take Advantage of Ceiling and Walls

Once you have sorted through your belongings, it’s important that you return them in an organized manner. The best way to take up the least amount of space possible is to take advantage of the ceiling and walls. There are shelves and racks you can get that you can then hang up on your walls and ceiling. Also, if you are someone who owns a Jeep Wrangler, you can easily hang up your hardtop on the ceiling when you want to drive with the top down. Utilizing the walls and ceilings will clear up space in your garage so you can actually fit a Jeep Wrangler and perhaps another vehicle inside.

Install New Lighting or a Window

An additional upgrade to your garage that can make a big difference is adding new lighting or installing a window. Quality lighting is helpful for finding items stored in your garage and is even more helpful for doing repairs on your vehicle. A window can also let in some sunlight—which can, in turn, prevent mold.

Get New Flooring

Another addition you should consider for your garage is new flooring. Brand new garage flooring looks and smells nice; it can actually enhance your garage in a big way. There are various garage flooring options you can choose from. Whether it’s traditional coating or tiles, consider replacing your old, cracked garage flooring.

Add Insulation

A helpful tip for remolding your garage is to add insulation. Insulation can keep your vehicle and everyone else in your garage in even better shape over the winter because you can regulate the temperature. Plus, adding insulation brings your garage one step closer to becoming a man cave or a home gym.

4 Key Tips for Building a Storm-Resistant House

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If you’re building your first home, there are various things to consider. Pushing further than choosing the color of the siding and where to put the bathroom, you also need to discuss proper practices that make a safe home. One of those things you need to plan for is the weather. Your home is your shelter, and if you don’t plan for it to protect you through rain, wind, or snow, then you’ll run into numerous problems. If you want to keep your family safe, look at these tips for building a storm-resistant house.

Pay Attention to Safe Design Concepts

Your first step to a safe home is a safe design concept. If you design your home based off looks, then you’ll probably miss out on important stabilizing design needs. A storm-resistant home will have a design that has flood-resistant qualities and, most importantly, a continuous load path. A flood-resistant design will include elevated structures made of materials that can handle getting wet.

A continuous load path means that when a force (load) attacks a home, the load will move from the roof and walls to the foundation and into the ground. Rather than winds uprooting your home, a continuous load path will tie together your home’s structural elements. If you don’t include both of these features into your design, you’re asking for trouble.

Install a Storm-Resistant Roof

Another important aspect of a safe home is a roof that will protect your home for years to come, no matter the weather. Asphalt and concrete roofs don’t cut it anymore—you’ll need to invest in a metal roof that can withstand high winds and inclement weather. For example, winter storms are a big issue for a lot of homes and can really affect your roof. Your best choice is to install a metal roof that can handle hurricane-force winds, loads of snow and ice, and any other storm Mother Nature throws your way.

Invest in Impact-Resistant Windows & Doors

In that same vein, you want to ensure that any entrances or exits to the home can handle the force of storms. This means that you must invest in impact-resistant windows and doors. These windows are meant to resist wind, leakage, and other forces so that your home and its foundation stay safe and stable. If you know that you live in a hurricane- or tornado-prone area, then you should also invest in quality shutters and window and door covers.

Choose Resilient Materials

When it comes to your home’s actual building process, make sure that you’re choosing resilient materials. All your design plans will go to waste if you choose materials that buckle under water, wind, or pressure. Steel is a top pick for people looking for homes built-to-last. Think about it this way; if your materials stay soaked through after water hits them, then you need to choose something different. Not only will these sturdier materials help create a storm-resistant home, but it’ll also prevent mold and mildew growth.

A storm-resistant house is on the way—happy building!

Unique Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day

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Valentine’s day is a day meant for love and appreciation. Your partner is there through your good days and bad ones. They’re also there for your children and help to complete your family. Valentine’s Day can be more than just a way to express love. Planning something unique can make them feel appreciated for all they do for you and the family. So, ditch the expensive steakhouse and find a fun activity you two can do together. Find a babysitter if your kids are too young (or too old) to trust at home alone for the night and head out to try something new together.

Recreate your first date

This one should be simple, low-cost, and extremely romantic. Remind yourselves what made the two of you fall in love initially by revisiting the site where it all began. If you can remember what you wore that night, try to recreate your outfit and lay hers out, too. Revisiting the first date is a great opportunity to discuss the inner thoughts you each had that night. You can compare and contrast how you two acted toward each other then and how comfortable you are with each other now. Talk about your first kiss and what your initial impressions of each other were. This is the perfect way to ignite the spark.

Go axe throwing

Axe throwing is the perfect date. It’s fun, it’s exciting, and it guarantees no dull moments. Keep each other laughing and competing with a unique activity. There are tons of axe throwing bars popping up where you two can grab a drink or two and let go together. The uniqueness of this idea might even get you some brownie points for creativity. It will bring out the competitive spirit in both of you which can lead to some fun and flirty dialogue. This is the best date for adventure seekers looking to laugh together.

Go on a food tour

Even if you don’t want to do the standard fancy dinner, you still may want to chow down on some delicious food for your Valentine’s Day date. To keep the food but ditch the clichés, try taking your significant other on a food tasting tour. These can fill you up surprisingly quickly and offers tons of variety, so there is bound to be a few dishes you both love. As a fun continuation, in the upcoming week after the holiday, try recreating your favorite dishes. This is the ideal date for foodies and couples looking to switch up their normal routine while keeping practicality as a key player.

Must-Have Tools Every Handyman Needs

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Must-Have Tools Every Handyman Needs

A workman’s tools are his most prized possessions. Often, he will need different ones for any given project. The must-have tools every handyman needs use electricity (power tools) or require manual application. However, it is crucial every dad knows how to handle power tools because they can be dangerous and unsafe if used improperly. Nevertheless, these are the tools every handy dad should have in their workshop.

Tool Bag or Box

Naturally, every handyman needs a way to carry and store their tools as efficiently as possible. A tool bag or tool box is designed for this purpose. You don’t need to continuously search for your wrenches and screwdrivers when they’re all together. Also, make sure to keep your tool bag in a place you’ll remember it, such as your garage.

Cordless Drill

As one of the most universal tools around, a cordless drill is essential. These operate using rechargeable batteries, which will save you time and money. Not to mention, most cordless drills have a clutch, which help drive screws without damaging them. You can invest in a specialty cordless drill, such as a right-angle drill, to work in tight spaces. Cordless drills are durable and versatile, making them one of the most necessary tools to have in your arsenal.

Cordless Flashlight

While it might not seem like the most vital of tools to own, a cordless or rechargeable flashlight is essential for working in dim or poor light. Most today use rechargeable batteries, so you won’t have to stress over continuously replacing batteries. It’s best to choose an LED flashlight for a powerful white light. This allows you to see through tiny cracks or crevices clearly.

Wrench Set

There are many different types of wrenches available, but you should opt for a combination set. These are double-ended with one end shaped as an open-ended wrench and the other as a box-end wrench. To be versatile, get a set of these for every size bolt. It’s also a good idea to have a socket wrench and pipe wrench due to their utility.

Claw Hammer

A claw hammer is used to drive nails or pull nails from another object, typically wood. These come in various sizes based on the weight of its head.

Electrical Tester

Electrical testers test the presence of electrical conditions in outlets. These determine if voltage is present in the circuit and test for a current and proper grounding. Testers consist of a small bulb with two insulated wires with metal test probes. To use an electrical tester, simply touch one probe into an outlet spot and the other probe to the other spot. The light will glow to signify it’s receiving electricity; if not, then it is a faulty outlet.

Circular Saw

Circular saws are another great tool for your project. These use an abrasive disc blade to cut different materials via rotary motion. They can cut wood, masonry, plastic, or metal. Likewise, you can use the same rechargeable battery pack for your saw if using one from the same manufacturer as your cordless drill.

Screwdrivers

A tool bag staple for projects too narrow for a cordless drill. You can also use different screwdrivers, like a Phillips, slotted, or hex key, depending on the screw used.

7 Signs It’s Time to Call an Exterminator

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There are many things that can go wrong in your home. However, there are serious issues that homeowners tend to overlook and not give them the attention they require. One of them is having pests in your home. Pests, such as rodents and insects, can be a threat to your family’s health if you don’t take care of the issue. As such, here are seven signs it’s time to call an exterminator.

1. You See Them Often

The first sign it’s time to call an exterminator is if you see the pests around your home. For example, when you start seeing a few mice, it’s usually a sign that there is an infestation due to how much they reproduce.

2. You Notice Damage

Pests can cause serious damage to your home, which is part of the reason why you need to get rid of them. Some damage pests can do to your home include chewed up wires, gnaw marks on the walls, or even holes in the walls.

3. You Spot Droppings

There might also be unexplained droppings, which look like brown little pelts, in your home as well. This is common with mice, and if you notice a lot of them around walls or even in your food, it’s time to give an exterminator a call.

4. You Find Their Habitat

Another obvious sign that you are dealing with a pest problem is you find their habitat in your home. This can be anything from various spider webs, a beehive, or a nest made out of shredded paper and other materials. Make sure you check every corner of your home to figure out what you are dealing with.

5. You Have A Lot of Bite Marks

Many pests in our home are known to be more active at night. This is also when they can mess with us. If you are waking up constantly with bite marks, not only should you seek medical attention, but contact an exterminator to deal with the problem as well.

6. You Hear Strange Sounds

You might also be subject to unexplained sounds that you start to hear throughout your home. This can be a sound as obvious as a stinging noise to something not as obvious as scratching within the walls. This, on top of the other signs you might be noticing in your home, probably means you have visitors.

7. Your Methods Aren’t Working

Most people try to take matters into their own hands by laying out mouse traps, spraying deterring scents, and more. However, if your pest issue still persists after trying to get rid of them yourself, your best bet is to call an exterminator who can properly find the source of your problem and take care of it.