admin, Author at 3 Kids and Us

5 Things to Check When Buying a New Camera

April 19, 2018 by admin

Before you diagnose yourself with Gear Acquisition Syndrome (G.A.S.) or the unnecessary want of getting something new; it would be healthy and wise to test out first the 5 things to check when buying a new camera. Who knows? You could have been wrong and this new camera is really what you need and not just what you want.

It starts with a why.

When the world has already offered you the best, there is clearly just a little room for improvements. With that, the task of choosing a new camera and let alone decide whether you really have to buy one no longer becomes just a pushover.

Valid reason is the game changer. Your present camera must be really old or it’s broken and buying new seems to be the most practical solution. Additional needed feature is also valid.

Nobody really knows exactly what will happen next. So to future proof this, also consider new and necessary features as one of the 5 things to check when buying a new camera. Remember, necessary here is relative. Your specific need is sometimes different than others. Everything depends on the situation. One example is when you need a full frame and not a crop sensor.

In other words, your conscience is your first guru.

You also need to consider a budget consideration.

Now that you get why you have to buy it, next is you have to think if the price is really worth it? Is the return of investment from your photography passion bringing back profits? To make things simpler to you, less than 500 USD is the target price. Several factors are considered here, like what the general population of photographers really just need, and what trusted brands average price is.

The present world of photography offers everything that is already good enough – ideal body stabilization, interchangeable lenses, deep dynamic range, brilliant image quality, fast auto focus and desirable high resolution. Because of this, a value of less than 500 USD is definitely most adequate – the supply of quality products is phenomenal you know!

David from Cameraseals can help you with his review on the best camera under $500 here => https://cameraseals.com/10-best-cameras-under-500-2017/

Lens resolution and lens compatibility is important.

The megapixel marketing is nothing but a myth because the pinnacle suitable number of megapixel for a good camera has long been reached ages ago. Focus more on the lens, because nowadays, it is easy to find a high resolution and adequate megapixel camera at a fair price anyway.

It makes sense because everything will be put to naught if your lens cannot give the proper resolution that your camera can actually provide. It’s like you are limiting its capacity when it can actually reach better performance.

Interchanging lens definitely provide convenience. So in 5 things to check in buying a new camera, it is a common sense to see to it that your camera body is harmonious to your lens. Lens mount adapters are also available in the market. It is your job as well to see to it that they actually support your lens and the harmful or augmenting effects they may bring to the specific features of your camera are understood well. Read your manual!

Don’t forget your storage space and computer specs.

Bigger pixels result to bigger photo files. Buy a camera with more internal storage capacity, as well as having memory cards which can store lots of data. Larger raw files won’t be problems then and to access them quicker is another advantage if you don’t have to resort to external hard drives and other dedicated storage arrays.

Also, the aspect of photo processing should not be left unattended. Make sure you won’t get a slow processing experience. You can do this by making sure that your computer’s system configuration is in sync and in par with your new camera.

Check the manufacturer’s claims and disclaimers on repair, support and maintenance.

Protection given by product warranty is a common thing but in reality, a business is a business. It is for the benefit of the manufacturer if it will find loopholes to any of your outcry. So bear in mind that it is your right to see the manufacturer’s claims and disclaimers, and written warranty before you even buy your camera. Don’t take them for granted.

If something is really off to be considered for a warranty, then make sure that you understand the service and support platform that your product manufacturer offers and that you get the most out of it.

So before you venture on researching the next newer version of cameras or the next newer and cooler features of the product; study everything first and let 5 things to check when buying a new camera guide you, accordingly.

The Importance of Family Road Trips

April 18, 2018 by admin

When it comes to vacations, it’s not always about the destination; it’s also about the time you spend with the people you love.

Taking your kids on vacation will give you the time to help teach your children essential life skills and more. In fact, there is a far better chance for them to remember the lessons and activities you did together rather than the destination itself.

Aside from that, there are a lot of reasons to go on a much-needed vacation with the family. Here are a few of them:

New Experiences

There are experiences that reading can’t give you. Allow your children to experience life first hand. They will absorb the lesson better, and it will make them eager to learn more about nature, culture, and more.

As part of encouraging experience, push them to try different activities and to face their fears within reason. For example, if one of your kids is afraid of horses, show them that there’s nothing be afraid of and try to get them to pet the horse, and eventually ride one.

When you take it one step at a time, it allows them to adjust and see that not everything is out to get them. After all the adventures and experiences, you can see your kids having more confidence in trying things out for themselves.

Promote Family Relationships

One great thing about road trips with your family is that everyone is free from the usual distractions. There are no board meetings to attend, no school, and no television; it will be just you, your kids, and the open road.

Use this time to reconnect with each other through games and stories. Ask them about what they are looking forward to on the trip, school, or any other future activities. Communication is key to developing well-adjusted individuals in the family.

Recharge

Meeting work deadlines, ensuring that everyone has their packed lunch before they leave the house in the morning, and you still need to arrive at the office on time is a lot of work. Over time, you can feel yourself getting burnt out from everyday life. Recharge and relax on your road trip with your family.

Go camping and share outdoor skills with your kids. Put up a tent, start a fire, and roast marshmallows. At night, tell each other ghost stories and funny tales from work or school to remind yourself that there’s more to life than deadlines and chores.

Ditch Digital

An advantage of going on a road trip and choosing a destination with little to no cell signal is that everyone will be forced to put down their devices and spend time with each other.

Now is the perfect time to let your child’s creativity shine and allow them to try their hand at entertaining themselves without the use of digital means. Let them play in the dirt, swim in rivers, and let them have fun in a different way.

When you make road trips a regular part of your family’s yearly plans, you help create a bond with each other. Not only that, but you also create a family tradition wherein everyone can pitch in their ideas and support in their unique way.

Letting your children help in the planning and packing for the trip gives them a sense of responsibility and gives them the confidence to take the lead in school and other activities. So, plan your next family road trip, find and rent a compact car, and have fun with the essential people in your life.

Key Items You Must Have In Your New Mum Survival Kit

April 18, 2018 by admin

Being a new mum may be the toughest job on the planet, and it’s important to be well prepared. To survive the early stages, you will want all the help you can get. That’s why you need to make sure you’re kitted out with the crucial items. Check out our suggestions below.

1. Pacifier

Your baby is going to need a good pacifier: that’s a fact. Of course, picking the right one isn’t that easy. Pacifiers are designed with different ages in mind. For example, breastfeeding babies under six months often require different pacifiers to older, teething babies.

You will want to make sure that the pacifier you decide on is soft, comfortable, and easy to clean.

The good thing is there is so many Pacifiers For Breastfed Babies on the market.

2. Food!

With all the running around you’re going to be doing, except to miss some meals. That’s whys it handy to keep your fridge and pantry stocked with snacks. Just don’t take this as an excuse to pig out. Nutritious snacks such as fruit and cereal bars are the way to go.

Having premade meals is also a good idea because you won’t have much time to cook. You could purchase freezer meals from the supermarket. However, a better way is to prepare your own. If you can find the time to cook once a week (such as when your husband is home to look after the young one), then you can prepare all your meals at once and chuck them in the freezer. When you’re hungry, simply pull them out and zap them in the microwave.

3. A Good Book

You’re going to be getting pretty stressed out and having a book to read is a good way to relax. Feedings can also get boring so having something to keep your mind occupied is handy.

4. Baby Wrap

A baby wrap is a simple way to carry your young one. The fabric is soft against their skin and will help hold them tightly against your body. They may look a bit intimidating to fasten at first, but after a few attempts, you will get the hang of it.

5. Infant Car Seat

This item is crucial for transporting your newborn. In fact, you will want one installed before you even leave the hospital. Look for a model that’s soft and has a high safety rating.

6. Bassinet

With all the nightly wake up calls, it’s great to keep your baby within arm’s reach. You can quickly soothe them back to sleep without having a midnight hike to the next room. You will also be able to easily watch over them while they’re sleeping.

Final Thoughts

Good luck being a new mum. It’s a real mission, but by being prepared, you will make it through. It may be handy to have all the necessary items ready before your baby even leaves the hospital. Doing so will save you time when you need it most.

13 Things You Should Always Remember When Getting a Divorce

April 16, 2018 by admin

Sometimes, life is not what it is made out to be like in the movies. Though dream weddings can exist, in many cases, marriages can sometimes come to an end over time. There is a misconception about divorce that it must be messy and expensive, which it can be if you don’t follow the right tips to making it a smooth process. Although it can be hard to let go, people are beginning to see divorce as an opportunity to find a better life. When you have children, the process can become an infinitely more difficult one, where it is not just you and your spouse’s feelings at stake. Before you make such a life changing decision, make sure you consider some key points.

It isn’t the only option

For many reasons, people think that when you enter into a marriage, it is going to be an easy ride. This means that when there are dips in the time they have together, they can start to think the end is near when it might not be. Though it is true that divorce is sometimes the best option, it is imperative to note that it is not the only one. For example, there are many marriage counsellors you can see if you are committed to saving your marriage, but there are also times when you might see improvements after a rough patch. If your marriage hasn’t improved after you feel like you have exhausted the options, then you can think about whether divorce is the right path for you.

You’re allowed to grieve

When you have separated from a spouse, it is one of the hardest times in a person’s life. Despite this, many parents feel as though they don’t have time to process their feelings when there are other people who will be feeling the effects of the divorce, such as children. However, making it so you have no time to grieve may feel like a welcome distraction at first, but it will likely hinder your chances of moving on effectively from the situation. It will be hard, but remember to give yourself time to grieve over your old life, so that you will be able to see your new one emerging on the horizon.

Keep it quick

What puts people off about divorce is that it can sometimes be a lengthy process, which makes it harder for every person involved. It may feel as though you can’t let go quickly but holding on longer will make it even harder in the long run to accept what is happening. It is worth remembering that divorces can happen amicably despite the circumstances, which will make it easier to co-parent when you are separated but will also mean that any assets are split quickly and fairly.

Consider the financial costs

There are also financial reasons why you should act quickly when getting a divorce. Hiring a legal team can sometimes cost more than your wedding might have, especially if there are some financial disagreements that are tricky to work through. Not only this, but any joint savings you have may be compromised during the process. It is unlikely that you will be able to split your assets down the middle, which is why it is always a good idea before you commit to someone to sign a pre-nuptial agreement, so that in the off-chance divorce comes about, you are not left without any money after.

Choose a good lawyer

One of the best ways to save money during a divorce is by hiring the best divorce lawyer at a reasonable cost, and who has a proven track record. This is key, as there are many lawyers out there who will only be thinking about the money they can make during the hard times of separating spouses. If you research effectively, weigh up your budget, and go in wanting a speedy process, then you will be able to find one that suits you. In all cases, this lawyer must have your kids’ lives at heart throughout the process, as they will become a big part of the divorce agreement you come to.

Put your kids first

Putting your kids first is something that people forget about when getting a divorce, due to the stressful situations that can arise when you are separating from someone. This usually means that your kids get caught in the crossfire between two arguing parents, which can unfortunately lead to a host of problems later in life. For example, mental health issues can affect them more, and there are some children who will start to feel abandonment complexes if one of their parents decides to leave the family entirely. If there is one piece of advice you should always take before getting a divorce, it is that your kids can escape the process relatively unscathed if you out them first at all times.

Employ a children’s therapist

There will be times in your divorce when you are not able to be your strong self for your kids, especially when you are giving yourself time to grieve. In these cases, you should consider whether hiring a children’s therapist is a good idea, where your kids can learn to articulate how the divorce has made them feel, but also where they can speak to somebody as an outlet for some confusing emotions. This may seem like a big cost in the short term, buy our children will reap the benefits in the years to come.

Be careful bringing family and friends into the process

It is not just your kids you must consider during this time. In fact, there are other family members who will also be affected by such changes. This could be when your parents are close to your spouse, and when they could try to step into the process as a way of protecting you from harm. Although it is primarily you and your kids who will be suffering, you should not forget that this is a time of change for your mutual friends and family, who may feel as though they need to pick sides. Be careful about the details you divulge. Although it is important to have support and advice it is also important to ensure the de

Have a strong support network

Even if you can avoid bringing your friends and family into the middle, that doesn’t mean you should cut off your support network. This will be a difficult time for everyone involved, which means you will need emotional support to keep you going strong. Asking siblings, friends, and parents to be there for you is always a good place to start, as they can supply a shoulder for you to cry on in your time of need. Despite this, they could be dealing with some other commitments that make it harder for them to be there for you as much as they can.

Seek professional help

When your support network can’t be there for you as much as you need, then you should consider seeking professional help. This means you can learn how to deal with the process in a calm and collected way, while still enabling yourself to have a space to grieve in. Therapists are not only there to talk issues over, but to equip you with some valuable advice that you should take. Such advice will help you move onto the next stage in your life with fresh, new eyes, and with hope rather than dread. It will also stop any emerging mental health issues in their tracks.

Consider what you want

Ultimately, you should never be forced to stay in a marriage that is making you unhappy. While there are other people to consider, you can’t live your life for what they want you to do, as you will find yourself unhappier for a longer stretch of time. During a divorce, it can be easy to put it off for this reason. It will be hard, but if you take the leap to do something that makes you happy, you should not feel guilty about divorcing who isn’t right for you.

Don’t be selfish

At the same time, there are some people who put their own needs above everyone else’s, which can come at the cost of other people’s emotions. It is easy to assume that putting yourself first means being selfish, but this is not the case. For example, you may wish to start seeing other people, but you can hold off from this until after the divorce is finalized, or you will be making your chances of having a fair and amicable divorce slim. At the end of the day, your kids should be at the heart of this process, but if you know what is best for you, then this should be what is best for your kids, too.

Try not to rush into something new

Going on a rebound is one of the first things people do after they have split from someone they have been dating for a long time. Although this can be fun, it is easy to get caught up with excitement and make careless decisions. The key here is to learn how to spend time being happy by yourself, which will make you stronger in the long run. It will also put you in a better headspace, so that the next time you meet someone, you can have a better relationship than your previous one.

Ways To Become A Better Parent

April 14, 2018 by admin

Being a parent is tough. As every single kid is different, it is impossible to say that there is a strict way of raising kids. However, after thorough research it has been proven that by following certain methods people can facilitate their life as parents and become better examples for their kids. Looking back at their childhood people realize how difficult and complicated their parent’s life has been, almost like a career. Back in the day people did not get access to books or online courses that taught them how to raise their kids. Yet our grandparents knew exactly how to deal with every single situation.

Even though they were not the most effective methods or raising a child and often they left many people scared, they still worked out. Fortunately, things have changed over time and raising a child is a lot easier these days. Parents need to be thoughtful and be very careful about how they act when they are around their kids. Good parenting is the most effective way of hosting empathy, self-control, kindness, and cooperation. At the same time, it protects kids from developing anxiety, depression and even drug abuse. The following principles are great for anyone who deals with kids.

Commit to Taking Care of Yourself

By taking care of yourself, you become a happy, encouraging parent for your child. In order to do so you need to integrate self-nurturing into your day to day life. This is not as complicated as it sounds. All you need to do is go to bed early so that you are well-rested, transform negative voices into positive ones, eat healthier foods and keep active for a more energized and well-balanced well-being and slow down the pace of your life. Most of the time kids can become a handful and you need to calm yourself down before interacting with them. Once you are at peace with yourself, you can easily manage certain situations and see things from a different perspective.

Avoid Comparisons and Labels

It is important to remember that good parenting happens in real time. A good parent is able to recognize key moments and transform them into the best life lessons. Comparisons among siblings will often lead to labels. It seems that even labels that are meant to praise children’s capabilities (e.g. little scholar, for a book-obsessed child) can be problematic. Siblings might develop fears related to certain aspects. For example, if one of the siblings already owns the musician title, the other sibling may be afraid to learn how to play an instrument for fear of falling short. Thus, you need to be very careful when labeling kids. Labeling is only effective when you rethink your words: “careful” instead of “shy” or “spirited” instead of “hyper.”

Walk the Talk

It is a well-known fact that babies and little children watch every move that their parents make. For that matter, parental behavior is critical when raising kids. Parents are teaching their kids a lesson every single minute of the day, even when they are not doing that on purpose. Your baby is observing the way you greet people on the street or how you talk to them and even the way you talk to your partner. In other words, the way you react in certain situations has a direct impact on their behavior. You don’t have to go out of your way when teaching them important life lessons, but you need to become aware of the way your react in every situation. This provides great life lesson about life each time your kids are with you.

Remember what is Important in Life

Kids make mistakes, but so does everyone else. No matter how big or small those mistakes are you need to start remembering the most important aspects of life. Stay positive and learn how to focus on what matters the most. In the larger scheme of things, the fact that their toys are spread all over the floor might drive you insane, but it not worth punishing them just for that. Kids will be kids, and they love adventure and experiencing new things. Make great memories with them before they grow up. Go on vacation together, visit relatives, go on spontaneous trips to the zoo and have the time of your lives. After all, people need to remember how to seize the moment. Take pictures on the go, and you’ll be able to keep those memories forever. Turn those photos into paintings and decorate your home with a unique piece of decor. You can do that in a simple manner. Want to know how? View here!

Trust Your Gut

Your intentions are good. Parents try to make the best choices for their kids, calibrate the best nutritional balance of protein, but all of those efforts are exhausting. You are the one who knows your children the best, so you should be the one who knows exactly what advice you need to follow. There are a lot of experts out there and probably too much advice that is somehow impossible to follow. Your gut may be telling you that your kids would be better off by doing something else. Fortunately, your gut is always “right”. Even specialists claim that parents who are not afraid to listen to their instincts in the decision-making process feel liberated and a lot more relieved.

Embrace Change

One of the most important lessons that you need to learn as a parent is the fact that kids get bored of certain activities, just like adults do. When they do that, parents are quick to assume that there is something wrong with their kids. Nonetheless, this is normal. Instead of being worried that your kids don’t like playing with a certain toy anymore or that they don’t like some kind of activity that they used to, it would be a good idea to evolve right along with them. Remember that kids don’t only grow on the outside they also grow and develop on the inside.

In conclusion, it is important to emphasize that parents need to become better individuals and watch every move they make when they are around their kids. As patience does not seem to work all the time, you need to manage your emotions first and only after that expect them to manage their own emotions.

It starts with a why.

You also need to consider a budget consideration.

Lens resolution and lens compatibility is important.

Don’t forget your storage space and computer specs.

Check the manufacturer’s claims and disclaimers on repair, support and maintenance.