Fatherhood Factor

For all the "dealings" of dads...

Emily Joswiak

How to Throw a Promotion Party

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A promotion is an exciting moment in someone’s life. It signals a reward for past work and a company’s anticipation for their future. This is a reason to celebrate—here’s how to throw a promotion party that your coworker, friend, or family member will love.

At Work

People earn promotions by working hard and going above and beyond. There’s great power to showing appreciation, and when companies make an effort to show their appreciation for a promoted employee, it helps them start their new phase of life well.

Be Mindful of Others

When considering how to throw a promotion party in the workplace, you’ll want to be careful about how you plan it. It’s not uncommon for several internal candidates to be vying for a promotion, and those who don’t secure it may not be happy. If the person promoted was the only logical candidate, then go ahead with the party. If not, then stick to a small private work celebration.

Do Something Small Outside Work

To get away from the awkwardness of a work party, bring your celebration outside work. Spend an evening at a bar toasting your coworker, or have some fun at a bowling alley. A nice, casual event that dedicates time and creates space for coworkers to show their appreciation fits the occasion nicely.

For Family or Friends

Meanwhile, friends and family don’t have the same inhibitions as coworkers do when planning a party. They can be fully happy for them and not hold back.

Enjoy a Night (or Weekend) of Fun

Friends and family have so many fun options to pick from. For one thing, you can surprise your loved one with a party. If you go this route, deck their home out with decorations on the day they start their new role, and then make sure you’re there for the big reveal. If you want them in the loop, you can host them for a night in or even carve out an entire weekend to celebrate. Take this opportunity to go somewhere they have been talking about visiting. They will likely be making more money, so they may be ready to indulge a little.

The Top Reasons Relationships Fail

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Relationships are hard. They take work and understanding to keep them healthy and ongoing. Relationships with friends are hard enough. Carving out time to cultivate relationships and let them grow is a challenge—now throw love, sex, and emotions into it. What a minefield. It’s a rare case where two high school sweethearts meet, fall in love, and live happily ever after. Most of us have many awful relationships that end in heartache before we finally figure it out and either find the love of our life or settle because we are tired. That might sound terrible, but it happens. The top reasons relationships fail might surprise you, but heed the warning. Look for these signs, and if you see them, then it’s not meant to be.

The Awful Truth Is Revealed

Sports is a big part of American culture. Year round, with a few exceptions, sports are available to watch on TV and in person. Fans are loyal to their teams, almost to a fault. Find out right away if your partner is a fan of sports and demand to know who they root for. If you’re a Bears fan and she loves the Packers, it’s not going to work. Steelers and Ravens? Same thing. Don’t waste each other’s time and keep looking.

She/he Eats Food Wrong

Certain food habits can be overlooked, like flavored creamers in coffee or not putting butter on popcorn. You can look past that. But there are other food sins that are unforgivable. If you meet someone who puts ketchup on a hot dog, or AI steak sauce on a ribeye steak, they are awful people. They will only frustrate you and continue to do embarrassing things at restaurants like order off the kids’ menu. Next!

Communication Problems

Communication problems are often cited as the number one reason relationships end. Not for the reason you might think. The problem is too much communication, not too little. Sometimes you don’t want to hear about the idiots at work, or the last out of the softball game. It’s perfectly acceptable to sit in silence in the car or at home. Not every minute of the day must be filled with noise.

It’s the Little Things

The details in life, as in relationships, are everything. Take a wide view of life but know it’s OK to focus on the little habits and manners of a partner. People’s behavior in the kitchen hints at larger issues. If they leave toast crumbs in the butter, peanut butter in the jelly jar, or put a wet spoon in sugar bowl after stirring their coffee, leaving tiny coffee balls, get out of there. They are either slobbish or self-centered, and neither of those traits are admirable.

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.