Tammie's Take~

5 New #Pittsburgh #Restaurants

Reviews · April 14, 2019

There’s always something new happening in Pittsburgh! This is especially when it comes to the foodie scene. If you and your family or group of friends are searching for a new spot to get some grub, we’ve got some great information for you to take advantage of regarding their atmosphere and most popular dishes. Here are five of the newest additions to the collection of awesome restaurants in the Pittsburgh area. Be sure to consider transportation if you plan on drinking! For more information, head over to http://www.limousinepittsburgh.com.

Spirits & Tales

5130 Bigelow Blvd

This new spot can be found in the Oaklander Hotel. They have an extensive drink menu with classics and inventive cocktails.

Horseradish Gnocchi Parisienne

The horseradish gnocchi is smothered in beurre noisette, oyster mushrooms, kale, black pepper ricotta, and fennel.

Braised Beef Cheek

The braised beef cheek comes with pickled carrot, ravigote, porcini consomme, and garlic chips.

Alta Via

46 Fox Chapel Rd

This Italian restaurant has a comfortable atmosphere and a well organized bar area for those searching for a great cocktail.

Swordfish

The swordfish comes with a lemon garlic vinaigrette, crispy artichokes, pea shoots, and a parsley risotto.

Radiatori

This pasta dish features a braised lamb, mint, Calabrian chilis, and Pecorino Toscano.

Ba-Co

54 21st Street

This specialty taco restaurant can be found in the Smallman Galley food hall. Tacos are two for $12 or one for $6.50!

La Gringa

This taco has chicken, honey and confit garlic aioli, kimchi, red onion, queso fresco, and cilantro.

Veggin’ Out

This taco features marinated cauliflower, kimchi, beet pepper sauce, sultanas, black bean and corn picadillo.

Chevere

411 Cherry Way

Did you know you can get authentic Venezuelan food right near one of the parking garages downtown?

Best Friends Combo

This combination comes with an arepa, empanada, and your choice of drink for under $10.

Arepas Perica

This arepa comes stuffed with tomato, onion, cheese, and scrambled eggs.

Two Sisters

216 N Highland Avenue

This is a Vietnamese restaurant with a fresh look and feel that is suitable for both families and friends.

Bun Bo Hue

This vermicelli noodle dish comes with spicy lemongrass beef noodle soup, beef brisket, pickled carrots, beef shank, and pork roll.

Vegan Pho

The vegan pho comes with a vegetable broth, rice noodles, broccoli, baby corn, carrots, and tofu.

Tips for Financing Your Next Home Improvement Project

Reviews · April 13, 2019

With the average cost of a home improvement project exceeding $30,000, finding the best finance option is vital. Before you start looking at the different options, your first step is to determine how much you need. Whether you’re hiring a contractor or doing the work yourself, you need to sit down and plan the project in full. Once you’ve calculated how much it will cost, you should add extra for contingencies and any project upgrades you might need. With a final figure, you’re now able to narrow down your finance options.

Refinancing Your Mortgage

This option is the most common way to finance home improvements. As well as providing money for your project, it can also result in a lower mortgage interest rate. Start by asking your current mortgage lender whether they’re prepared to offer you a deal and then check out a few more lenders to compare with. Your aim should be to find an agreement with lower interest rates and monthly repayments.

Home Equity Loan/Home Equity Line of Credit

If you don’t want to refinance your mortgage, there is the option of taking out a second home loan. You’re given a lump sum upfront and have to pay it off in a certain amount of time, often 15 or 30 years. To choose the best loan, you need to look closely at the different interest rates being offered. You also need to be sure of the cost of your project. There is help available online. For example, if you want to install homeowner solar panels, Going Solar can provide information on the cost.

A home equity line of credit is a popular alternative to a loan. Rather than being given a lump sum, your lender gives you an active line of credit, up to a certain amount. Interest rates are variable, so you need to read the terms and conditions very carefully. There’s also the risk of overspending, so you need to keep a close eye on what you’re spending.

Personal Loan

A personal loan isn’t tied to the equity in your home, and you generally have two choices; a secured or an unsecured loan. Unsecured loans are more popular and, depending on your credit history, you could borrow anything between $1,000 and $50,000. If your credit score is good, you’ll be offered a preferential interest rate and a higher amount you can borrow. With a secured loan, you’ll have to offer collateral such as stocks, bonds, or your car.

Credit Cards

If your improvement project is on the small side, you could choose to cover the cost using your credit card. However, a word of caution is necessary. Remember that credit cards usually have a higher rate of interest than a loan, and late payments could cost extra money. If you decide to go with this option, aim to pay the full amount at the end of each month.

Construction/Renovation Loan

A few lenders only offer this type of loan, but it is designed specifically with home improvement projects in mind. It’s an option worth considering because funds can be released in full or in stages as your home improvement project progresses.

B/C Loan

This type of loan is designed for those with a poor credit rating. The downside, however, is that B/C loans generally have higher interest rates and costs. Before taking out this type of loan, make sure you’re able to meet the repayments, or you risk your credit score getting worse. You also need to read the terms and conditions very carefully and be sure of the amount of the monthly repayments.

10 Things to Add to Your Diet to Reduce Inflammation

Reviews · April 12, 2019

Inflammation is usually an issue associated with other health conditions such as cancer, asthma, diabetes, arthritis and heart disease. These diseases that are commonly seen in our society require medication and long-term changes to the sufferer’s lifestyle to help stop them from getting worse or get rid of the disease altogether. Inflammation is one of the main problems that come with these diseases and by addressing this factor, not only can symptoms of the disease be alleviated, but they may even disappear completely. Diet is a key component when it comes to keeping healthy and reducing many of the listed diseases from developing or getting worse. So, to help reduce inflammation, here are ten things you should add to your diet.

1. Leafy Green Vegetables

All fruits and vegetables are known to be rich in antioxidants, which are known to restore cellular health, plus flavonoids which are an anti-inflammatory. Leafy green vegetables are known to be particularly high in these properties as well as many other healthy vitamins (e.g. A, C and K), which can provide protection for your brain against oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is caused by damage from free radicals. Examples of leafy greens to try are all types of lettuce, collard greens, mustard greens, kale, spinach and arugula.

2. Bok Choy

Bok Choy is a Chinese cabbage that is a great antioxidant source. There have been studies carried out that have proven that there are around 70 different antioxidant phenolic substances. One of these substances is known as hydroxycinnamic acid. This is a robust antioxidant that reduces free radicals. This vegetable can be used in a variety of dishes which makes it a great food for inflammation reduction.

3. Celery

Celery is a vegetable that provides both anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. It can also help to lower blood pressure and levels of cholesterol, which in turn reduces the risk of heart disease. Celery seeds can also be consumed and have some fantastic health benefits such as working as an anti-inflammatory and can also help improve the function of your immune system. Potassium, anti-oxidants and vitamins are all in high concentrations in celery.

4. Broccoli

The health benefits associated with broccoli aren’t a secret. Broccoli has a high amount of magnesium and potassium, as well as many antioxidants which all work together to reduce inflammation. All this, plus other key vitamins, carotenoids and flavonoids, makes broccoli the perfect food to consume if you want to reduce inflammation. All these elements help with lowering oxidative stress in your body, which aids in fighting chronic inflammation and also reduces cancer risks.

5. Blueberries

Citrus and dark colored berries are known to be full of the flavonoid quercetin. This is a phytonutrient that can be found in fresh food. It is known to work well as an anti-inflammatory and is also thought to lower the development of cancer. There have been many studies on the benefits of blueberries. One was to prove its anti-inflammatory properties for people suffering with IBD. Another was to prove that blueberry consumption slows down the rate of cognitive decline, and improves memory and also motor function.

6. Pineapple

Pineapple has many benefits when consumed. It contains bromelain, which is a digestive enzyme that is often paired with quercetin (as mentioned before) when sold in the form of a supplement. Some of the health benefits of bromelain are that it helps boost the immune system by regulating its immune response. This helps to reduce unnecessary and unwanted inflammation. Pineapple is also great for a healthy heart as it helps to decrease the risk of blood clot formation as the bromelain stops platelets from sticking together.

7. Salmon and Other Oily Fish

Oily fish is extremely beneficial to our health. We should be consuming at least 3 portions of oily fish every week to benefit from this super food as much as possible. The reason this fish is so good for us is due to it being a fantastic source of omega-3 and fatty acid which are very effective anti-inflammatories. As well as reducing inflammation, these substances can also lower the risk of chronic disease development, like arthritis and heart disease.

8. Walnuts

The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of walnuts are impressive. They have been proven to provide protection against cardiovascular issues, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. There are also many phytonutrients that are contained in walnuts that are rarely seen in other foods. Walnuts are also rich in omega-3 and fatty acids.

9. Ginger

Whether you use fresh ginger, dried ginger or ginger in the form of a supplement, this spice has many health benefits and is something you should definitely add to your diet. It helps to improve the function of our immune systems, reducing inflammation by an overactive immune response. Ayurvedic medicine highlights ginger’s ability to break down toxins that accumulate in our organs.

10. Cannabis

With the use of medical marijuana on the rise, if you suffer from painful inflammation, then you should consider adding this plant to your diet. Many studies have been carried out on this substance, and they have proven that the use of cannabis doesn’t only treat inflammation, but it also addresses the pain that accompanies it. This is due to the cannabinoids, CBD and THC. Adding marijuana to your diet is pretty easy and the best way to do it is by making a cannabis butter. This cannabis butter can be added to recipes, can be used to fry food and/or can be spread on baked goods in the morning. Getting cannabis delivered to your home couldn’t be easier. Just visit farmhouse.delivery to make your order.

There are so many natural ways to reduce inflammation. It is definitely worth trying them as they are much healthier and, in some cases, more effective than man-made medicine. Also, the only side effects you’re going to see from eating natural and healthier products will be positive ones. So, get experimenting by adding these components to your diet. Whether in the form of food or as a supplement, there is definitely no harm in trying these highly beneficial foods.

Teenagers and Vaping – What Parents Need to Know

Reviews · April 12, 2019

Vaping and e-cigarettes have become enormously popular in recent years and the industry is expected to overtake tobacco products by 2023. Many adults have switched to e-cigarettes in a bid to quit their smoking habit. Vaping is safer than smoking tobacco products, as e-cigarettes don’t contain dangerous toxins like hydrogen cyanide, DDT, and arsenic. But it isn’t just adults that vape. Many teenagers have jumped on the vaping bandwagon. If your teen is one of them, or you think they might be susceptible to peer pressure, here’s what you need to know.

The Difference Between E-cigarettes and Tobacco Products

Unlike tobacco products, e-cigarettes don’t contain more than 5,000 toxins. Not all of them contain nicotine either. Unlike a cigarette, a vaping device doesn’t burn anything. Instead, a heating element creates a water vapor that may contain nicotine and can also be flavored.

If an e-cigarette does contain nicotine, the level will vary between different brands. Adults often use e-cigarettes to help them quit smoking, as they can still have a nicotine fix, but by slowly reducing the level of nicotine in the device, they are able to beat their addiction.

E-cigarettes and vaping products can be bought in local stores or from online retailers. There are some restrictions on the sale of electronic cigarettes and teenagers are not allowed to vape on school property. However, vaping is not illegal for minors and as long as your teen has photo ID showing he’s at least 18, he can buy e-cigarettes and vaping products.

This website is a good place to start if you or your teen is searching for good quality vaping products.

Young People and Vaping

Vaping is very popular with teens. Many teens start vaping without ever having tried cigarettes. E-cigarettes are cheaper than traditional tobacco products and come in a huge range of cool flavors. Teens can pick up fun mods and experiment with different vaping devices. And unlike cigarettes which are harmful to others, it’s safe to vape around their friends.

In 2014, the US Surgeon- General stated: “The burden of death and disease from tobacco use in the United States is overwhelmingly caused by cigarettes and other burned tobacco products; rapid elimination of their use will dramatically reduce this burden.”

E-cigarettes are far safer than tobacco cigarettes and as long as teens don’t use high-voltage devices that produce formaldehyde, there are few – if any – risks associated with vaping.

Encourage Teens to Quit Smoking

The main concern for parents is that if their teen vapes, he will become addicted to nicotine or is more likely to try psychoactive substances such as marijuana or prescription drugs. However, if a teenager is going to go down that route, he will probably do it irrespective of whether he vapes or not.

E-cigarettes are useful if your teenager is already a smoker. Encourage him to switch to vaping, so he can quit his smoking habit. In the long run, it is much better for his health.

If your teen vapes, try not to be concerned. Most teenagers experiment, and in the grand scheme of things, vaping is a lot safer than using prohibited substances like marijuana.

Big Ant Smokeless Car Ashtray #Review #ad

Reviews · April 10, 2019

I received the below mentioned complimentary product either for free or a discounted price for the purpose of this post. All opinions and thoughts are 100% my own.

O.k., I smoke. In my defense, I am on Chantix and it is working so quitting is in my view in the near future. I bought my car last year ans was very surprised to find out that they do not come with an ashtray or a lighter. That being said means no smoking for me in the car. That had to change. This is why I was thrilled when the opportunity came about to review the Big Ant Smokeless Car Ashtray.

About The Product~

Detachable Cigarette Lighter Design with USB Charge – Just press it, lit cigarette in your car conveniently. No need for the lighter, Charge lighter ashtray using the USB cable.
Clear Visual with Cool Blue Led Light & Clamshell Design – Cool blue light will be light when open! When you lift the lid, Big Ant Ashtray cool blue LEDs light up. The LED illumination increases night vision and gives you easy visual access to the tray. Also, keep the ash in your car ashtray, prevent ash flying. The top of the container gives you plenty of room to crush the cigarette before dropping it in the hole with specular iron designed.
Detachable Featured – Consist of two part of cigarette ashtray, rotate the ash tray, take off it and clean the liner easily with mental liner material. It is an excellent protection for ashtray bottom.
Premium Quality – Big Ant Blue Ashtray for car is constructed of premium quality material to provide you with a sturdy and durable tray, used for cigar to be smokeless and fits most car cup holder. Fashion and classic, premium luxury design for car ashtray, made of high density fireproof material, is non-flammable.
Multipurpose – Ideal for office, home and car use. Easy to carry with compact design. Package include: 1x Big Ant Car Ashtray CUP, 1x USB Charge Cable, 1x Instruction.

My Review/Thoughts~

Just the thought of being able to stick this in my cup holder was so ingenious that I could not wait to try it. I love the thought of it having a light on it which makes me lighting my cigarette with it so much easier. The light also helps me know where to flick my ash and so that I would not miss hitting. That is one thing that is a pet peeve of mine and that is people who let their ashes just fall anywhere. This has been a life saver to me. I would of never knew they made something like this if it wore not for this review. I have to admit this is a game changer.