Author Archives: Andi Perullo de Ledesma

About Andi Perullo de Ledesma

I am Andi Perullo de Ledesma, a Chinese Medicine Doctor and Travel Photojournalist in Charlotte, NC. I am also wife to Lucas and mother to Joaquín. Follow us as we explore life and the world one beautiful adventure at a time.

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Simple Ways To Pamper Yourself And Boost Your Confidence

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Taking time for yourself should not just be a luxury that you do once in a while – it is too important for that. The fact is that a little pampering can go a (really) long way, and it gives you that extra boost of self-confidence you might need to get through the day or week a little happier and a little more productively. With that in mind, whether you have a free evening or a free few minutes, here are some simple ways to pamper yourself and boost your confidence – read on to find out more. 

Have A Mini Spa Day

Sometimes all you need is the right atmosphere to relax and let the stress of the day melt away, so start with dim lighting, a favorite playlist, and maybe even a scented candle and oil diffuser. Then, run a hot bath and throw in some Epsom salts or a bath bomb for added luxury – it all counts. 

If baths are not your thing, do not worry, you can indulge in a long, steamy shower instead, and enjoy a body scrub for that clean, fresh feel, and it is just as good. And this mini spa day at home does not have to take a lot of time yet it can still work wonders. 

Have A Skin Treatment 

Something else that can really help is a great skin treatment, and if you are looking for a way to feel amazing and get an extra glow, this is it. You could visit experts like the ones at Elan Skin & Laser Med Spa, for example, and enjoy some professional treatments that will leave you feeling so much better. 

You could have a facial, laser treatment, a rejuvenating peel, Botox, and much more, and every one of these treatments is designed to leave you feeling your best, and to give you plenty more confidence than you had before. And of course, it is a moment to yourself, and that is always worthwhile. 

Experiment With A New Look 

Trying out a fresh look can be an instant confidence boost, and it does not have to mean a drastic makeover – there are loads of things you can do that will really make a difference and not take too much time or energy. What about a fun new lipstick color, a different hairstyle, or even a new accessory you would not normally pick?

It is these small tweaks like these that can change how you see yourself and remind you that you are free to switch things up whenever you want, which is amazing and really something to bear in mind. Plus, not only does it add a little excitement to your day, but it also allows you to see yourself in a new light, and that could be the start of something really exciting. 

Practice Positive Self-Talk 

Sometimes, the best confidence boost comes from the way you speak to yourself, even if that is not something you would ever thought about before. If you are not sure what we mean, take a moment to notice your internal dialogue; are you being your own biggest critic, or are you cheering yourself on? Are you negative or positive, in other words? 

If you are being negative, it is time to change things and practice a little positive self-talk. Remind yourself of your strengths, the things you are proud of, and the qualities you love about yourself, and although it might feel a little silly at first, you will be amazed at how impactful these small, uplifting reminders can be over time.

 

Best British Food: Classic Dishes You Should Try

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The British Isles are home to some of the best traditional meals you will find. The best British food captures unique flavors, hearty textures, and comforting tastes that stand out on any plate. From savory pies to rich puddings, British cuisine brings a whole world of flavors, each dish telling its own story. Whether you are a fan of fried bread and eggs or crave a Sunday roast with all the trimmings, British food offers something delicious for everyone.

Breakfasts To Start Your Day Right

A full English breakfast is nothing short of iconic. You get fried eggs, sausages, black pudding, baked beans, and fried bread—all of which make it a filling, hearty breakfast. Fried tomatoes and grilled mushrooms often add extra flavor, while buttered toast and a warm cup of English breakfast tea complete the experience. No wonder it is a popular choice in both homes and traditional British pubs.

Lunchtime Delights: Hearty And Satisfying

For a filling meal in the middle of the day, the British turn to traditional dishes like cottage pie and shepherd’s pie. Cottage pie, a delicious combination of minced beef topped with mashed potatoes, is often baked until golden brown, making it a comforting meal. Shepherd’s pie swaps the beef for minced lamb but keeps the same satisfying taste. And if you are in the mood for something lighter, a Cornish pasty filled with beef, potatoes, and vegetables is perfect for lunch on the go.

Traditional British Pub Favorites

Visiting a traditional British pub is not complete without trying the classic British food it has to offer. You will find hearty favorites like steak and kidney pie, where rich gravy and chunks of beef meet tender kidney in a flaky crust. Then there is the Scotch egg—a deep-fried delicacy featuring a boiled egg wrapped in sausage meat, breaded, and fried until crisp. Toad in the Hole, with sausages baked in Yorkshire pudding batter, brings that authentic pub feel to the table.

Sunday Roast: A British Staple

A Sunday roast is more than just a meal; it is a cherished British tradition. Roast beef, pork, lamb, or even chicken takes center stage. The best part? All the sides. Roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, and brussels sprouts are traditionally served with mint sauce or rich onion gravy, depending on the meat. Mashed potatoes often join the mix, along with carrots, green peas, and a helping of stuffing. Sunday roast is the ultimate British comfort food, shared with family and friends.

Fish And Chips: A Chip Shop Classic

No British food list is complete without fish and chips. It is a deep-fried classic, usually featuring a golden-brown piece of cod or haddock served with chunky chips. Mushy peas on the side bring a uniquely British twist, while vinegar and salt are must-have condiments. Whether enjoyed by the sea or at a local chip shop, fish and chips have become an iconic British dish loved by locals and visitors alike.

Decadent Desserts For Every Sweet Tooth

British desserts bring warmth and indulgence to the table. Sticky toffee pudding is one of the best-loved treats, known for its rich, caramel flavor and soft, moist texture. Bread and butter pudding, often made with vanilla custard, baked bread, and fresh fruit, is another traditional favorite. Christmas pudding, enjoyed during the holidays, is dense with dried fruits and sometimes served with brandy butter or clotted cream.

Afternoon tea is also a cherished British tradition. Authentic British scones, served with whipped cream and fresh clotted cream, are perfect with a cup of tea. Add a touch of strawberry jam, and you have a classic British afternoon treat.

Comforting Pies And Puddings

British cuisine features a variety of savory pies and puddings, each with a distinct flavor profile. Steak and kidney pudding, a suet-based pie filled with steak and kidneys in rich gravy, is ideal for cold days. Similarly, Lancashire hot pot combines lamb, onions, and potatoes in a slow-cooked stew that is both hearty and satisfying. For a lighter option, pork pie with a flaky crust and savory filling offers a delightful bite, often enjoyed at picnics or gatherings.

Unique Flavors And Surprising Dishes

British cuisine also brings unique flavors and surprising dishes to the table. Kidney pie, with its savory filling, may seem unusual, but it’s a beloved dish among locals. Black pudding, a type of blood sausage, often surprises first-timers but has a savory taste that pairs well with other breakfast staples. The traditional British breakfast, known for its variety, also often includes clotted cream and fresh eggs for an authentic taste.

A Taste of British Heritage in Every Bite

Eating British food offers more than just good flavors; it’s a dive into history and heritage. Many traditional British dishes like fish and chips, roast lamb, and Cornish pasties date back to centuries-old recipes. Classic meals such as cottage pie and Lancashire hot pot offer glimpses into the hearty meals enjoyed in UK households over generations.

A fry-up breakfast, rich in sausage, fried eggs, and buttered toast, recalls simpler times, while the national dish, chicken tikka masala, reflects the multicultural influence on British food today. Even the humble boiled egg and fried bread hold a place in British kitchens. And for dessert lovers, bread and butter pudding and vanilla ice cream bring comfort to any gathering.

Final Thoughts On The Best British Food

The best British food captures flavors that comfort and surprise in equal measure. It’s about hearty meals, traditional dishes, and classic British food enjoyed with family and friends. From Sunday roasts to sticky toffee pudding, British cuisine brings warmth and variety to the table. Whether it is a fry-up breakfast, a cozy cottage pie, or a sweet treat like bread and butter pudding, British food is something to savor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some typical British foods?

Typical British foods include mashed potato, roast beef, and fish and chips, each a staple in traditional British cuisine.

What is a traditional British dish for Sunday meals?

A traditional British dish for Sundays is the roast dinner, featuring mashed potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, and gravy.

Why is mashed potato popular in traditional British foods?

Mashed potato is a popular side in traditional British foods because of its comforting, simple flavor that pairs well with various meats and gravies.

 

This Winter, Road Safety Matters More Than Ever

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As we approach the colder months and the likelihood of icy (or even snowy) roads increases, Road Safety Awareness Week, from November 17th to 23rd, serves as a reminder of the importance of being vigilant while out on the roads. In the UK, road safety is a shared responsibility, and with a few mindful habits and seasonal adjustments, we can all contribute to a safer journey for everyone. Here, the team at Regtransfers, a private plate supplier, delves into why road safety is so important this winter, and how each of us can contribute to safer roads.

Staying Safe On The Road

Road safety is a cornerstone of public well-being, and we should all know and respect the traffic laws and safety regulations, each in place to reduce accidents and protect all road users. The UK is among the leaders in road safety, but the journey to fewer accidents is unlikely to end quickly. Over 1,500 fatalities and countless injuries were recorded last year, with many accidents linked to preventable issues like speeding and distracted driving.

This Road Safety Awareness Week, we’re encouraged to reflect on how these numbers can be reduced by being proactive on the road. With a collective effort and by upholding the spirit of road safety laws, such as speed limits, seat belt regulations and mobile phone restrictions, we can all contribute to a safer road environment.

Seasonal Hazards

As winter approaches, hazards like icy patches, fog, and wet roads increase the risks on our roads. November marks the start of colder conditions, which often lead to black ice – a nearly invisible layer of ice that can catch even the most experienced drivers off guard. Snowfall might not be as frequent in the UK, but it can still make roads especially treacherous when it does occur.

Driving under these conditions calls for caution and preparation:

Check Your Tires And Fluid Levels

Make sure your tires have the correct tread depth and pressure for extra grip on wet or icy roads. Refill antifreeze and windshield washer fluids regularly to avoid being caught out.

Prepare An Emergency Kit

Having a winter kit in your car with essentials like blankets, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and some non-perishable food can be invaluable if you get stranded in winter weather.

Clear Ice And Snow Before Driving

Take the time to fully clear your windscreen, side mirrors, and windows before starting your journey to maximise visibility.

Drive Smoothly

Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns, as these can lead to loss of control on icy surfaces. Slow down and increase your following distance to allow for longer stopping times.

Taking small steps to “winterise” your vehicle and modify driving habits can go a long way in reducing seasonal accidents. Remember, safety on the road is about being prepared for both the expected and unexpected.

Positive Actions To Promote Road Safety

Every driver can make a positive impact by adopting responsible habits behind the wheel. Here are a few ways to contribute to road safety this season:

Stay Focused and Avoid Distractions

The use of mobile phones while driving is one of the leading causes of distraction. UK law forbids any handheld device use while driving, with fines and penalty points for violators. Staying focused on the road is essential to reacting quickly in icy or dark conditions.

Wear Your Seatbelt, And Insist Others Do Too

As simple as it sounds, seatbelts save lives, reducing the risk of fatal injuries by up to 45%. Make it a habit to ensure everyone in your vehicle is buckled up.

Drive Defensively

Be alert to potential hazards, and do not assume other drivers will behave predictably. Drive defensively by keeping a safe distance, anticipating potential actions from others, and remaining cautious at intersections.

Additionally, for families, instilling good habits in younger passengers and teaching children about pedestrian safety can be a valuable and life-saving exercise. Showing kids how to check both ways, stay on sidewalks, and make eye contact with drivers can set a foundation for safe road use in the future.

Tips For Different Road Users

Our roads are shared spaces, and as we enter the season with reduced daylight and adverse weather, all users need to be extra mindful of each other.

Drivers

Slow down in school zones, anticipate slippery conditions, and give plenty of space to cyclists, especially on narrow or busy roads. Always use indicators well in advance, especially in foggy conditions.

Cyclists And Motorcyclists

With daylight dwindling earlier, it is essential to stay visible. Wearing reflective gear and using lights on your bike or motorcycle helps others see you from a distance. Additionally, staying mindful of vehicles’ blind spots can prevent accidents.

Pedestrians

Pedestrians should take extra care when crossing roads in poor weather and wear reflective clothing if walking in low-light conditions. When crossing, make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you, and avoid distractions like phones while near traffic.

Each road user has a role to play, and by being considerate of each other, we create a safer road environment.

Be Prepared, Stay Safe And Enjoy The Winter Months!

As we look forward to a festive season filled with visits to friends and family, let us commit to safer driving habits that ensure everyone reaches their destination safely. Even small actions like staying focused, slowing down, and checking weather forecasts before driving can make a big difference. Road Safety Awareness Week is a timely reminder to not just follow the law but to go above and beyond to protect ourselves and others.

This season, take the time to prepare for changing conditions and prioritise safety over speed. By adopting these mindful habits and encouraging others to do the same, we can look forward to a winter where safety and responsibility are at the forefront. Let us drive carefully, stay alert, and make British roads safer for everyone.

 

Essay Formatting And Citation Tips For Students

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Creating an essay is just half the battle; formatting and citing the sources well is vital for a successful and credible work. If you do not format and cite well, even the most convincing arguments can appear unprofessional and rushed. So, here are some helpful hints on how to be successful in essay formatting and citations so you can submit your paper confidently.

1. Understand The Formatting Style Required

Some subjects and even professors have specific formatting standards, so know which one you need to go with before you get started. Styles that are often used are APA, MLA, and Chicago. Each of them has different guidelines for headings, font sizes, spacing, etc. Studying these guidelines in advance will spare you a lot of hassle down the road.

Read the syllabus or contact your professor for details on the format. There are websites for every style; some universities even offer templates. Make sure to have the formatting style in mind at the start, and you will have a much easier time writing.

2. Set Up Basic Formatting Elements First

It can save you time if you pre-format your document with some basic formatting before you begin to write. It means resizing the margins, font type, font size, and line spacing according to the specified rules. The basic rules are usually these:

  • Use 1-inch margins on all sides.
  • Choose a readable font, like Times New Roman or Arial, in 12-point size.
  • Set double spacing throughout unless instructed otherwise.
  • Include page numbers, if required, according to your formatting style.

3. Organize Your Title And Header Correctly

The title and header are both important elements that present your piece professionally. Your title needs to represent what is being said in the essay, but it should not be long or incoherent. (For instance, the title “What Climate Change Does to Marine Life” is better than just “Climate Change”).

Depending on the style, you may need to add various elements to your header:

  • MLA: Your name, instructor’s name, course, and date in the top left corner.
  • APA: A title page with the title, author’s name, and institution, along with a page header on every page.
  • Chicago: A title page may be required, and often, a header with page numbers only.

4. Keep Your Paragraphs And Sections Consistent

Consistency is the key to a good essay. That includes how you lay out paragraphs, headings, and sections. If you are writing essays with several sections, such as an introduction, body, and conclusion, break up the paragraphs by headings.  APA, for example, allows specific levels of headings, which can help you present complex topics core clearly.

5. In-Text Citations: Give Credit Where It Is Due

You should include a citation to the sources within the text to avoid plagiarism. Each style has different guidelines for citing the work in the text. All citation styles differ in their rules, but the objective is the same: credit other people’s work. Get to know the guidelines of your style so your citations are consistent.

6. Create A Properly Formatted Reference List Or Works Cited Page

Add a bibliography at the end of your essay. This page has a different title in different styles (“Works Cited” in MLA, “References” in APA). You will want to alphabetize each source and format them differently for each reference type (book, journal, website, etc.).

7. Use Quotation Marks And Block Quotes Correctly

There are special formatting requirements for quoting other works. Short quotes (less than 40 words) are positioned in brackets and added to your paragraph. For larger quotes, you might have to resort to a block quote structure (indented and without quotes). It is always better to only use block quotes if necessary. Do not use them too much, as your essay will appear overly reliant on sources. Do not deviate from the rules of the style for block quotes, as different styles have different lengths and indentations.

8. Proofread For Formatting Consistency

After you’ve composed your essay, you do not just proofread it to make sure it has good grammar. Review your paper for typos as well. Does your in-text citation correspond correctly to the references? Is the font consistent throughout? Do headings look the same? Small formatting mistakes can take away from your paper’s professional feel, so make sure to invest time in this one last check. It can be helpful to read your paper aloud or have someone else look it over to find any errors. You can ask a writing essay service for students to proofread and edit your paper. Academized is a provider that can do it quickly and effectively, so consider them for your next project.

Formatting Makes A Difference

Learning about essay formatting and citation style can be boring, but these points matter a lot. Formatting your article professionally helps to cement your point and give credit where credit is due. When you properly prepare your document, adhere to the style guide, and proofread, you will deliver a credible paper that shows off your efforts. With these tricks, you will be on your way to wowing your professors with your essays every time!

 

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Roofing 101: How To Find The Right Roof Material For Your Home

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Whether you are building a home or upgrading an old roof, you must understand the different roofing materials at your disposal. Roofs come in all types and variations, with some materials suiting certain homes or roofs more than others. Picking the wrong roofing material can lead to extra costs down the line – not to mention a bucketload of stress! 

How do you find the right roof material for your home? It starts with knowledge of the most common materials available. 99% of homes will be built with one of these roofs:

  • Asphalt Shingles
  • Metal
  • Slate
  • Concrete Tiles
  • Ceramic Tiles
  • Clay Tiles
  • Rolled Asphalt

Each option has pros and cons and might suit some homes more than others. You can find all the different roof material variations below, along with detailed explanations of what they are and why you may (or may not) want to use them. 

Asphalt Shingles

Loads of homes are built with asphalt shingles as this material and roofing style has plenty of benefits. Shingles are laid in overlapping pieces on a roof, allowing for better water channeling to your gutters. Asphalt is typically the favored material for shingles because it is: 

  • Affordable
  • Extremely durable
  • Easy to install
  • Easy to repair

A professional roofer will recommend asphalt shingles for pretty much any roof. It is particularly great for traditional suburban homes or houses with high-pitched roofs. This is also an extremely beneficial material for home renovation projects. The affordability and ease of installation make it a smart choice for a quick roof replacement. 

The only downside is that asphalt shingles can get battered and worn down by high winds, and they are not the most durable option out there. They will last for decades, but you can find more durable roofing materials if this is your biggest concern. 

Metal

You will find metal roofing made out of steel, copper, or aluminum. They are very striking and contain the following beneficial properties: 

  • Last for 50 years+
  • Extremely energy efficient
  • Resistant to fire

Metal roofing also comes in a shingle variety – or you can opt for metal sheets. Some experts believe that a metal roof increases the value of your home, but this depends on how it looks. You might consider this option if you want to create an eco-friendly home with excellent energy efficiency. That is the big draw of a metal roof; it works wonderfully at retaining heat or reflecting solar energy to maintain the perfect ambient temperature in your home. 

Obviously, there are some downsides to consider. Metal roofs cost more to install and are fairly prone to rusting. This means you should not pick this if you live near the sea, where you get a salt breeze coming in. Also, some people do not like the sound of rain hitting a metal roof as it is pretty noisy. If you get a lot of rainfall, perhaps this will not be the roof for you. 

Slate

Those of you looking for the longest-lasting roof should consider slate. It is estimated to last for over 100 years, meaning one installation should be all you have to deal with. Alongside the durability benefits, slate is a fine choice as it has these key features: 

  • A timeless aesthetic appeal
  • Incredibly low maintenance
  • Fire resistant
  • Adds value to your home

Despite all of these benefits, slate roofing is not that common. Why? Because it is expensive to install and extremely heavy. A lot of older homes cannot handle the additional weight of slate, so you either need to reinforce the structural integrity or pick a different option. Still, if your home can handle a slate roof, then it is a no-brainer. Especially if your main goal is to make an improved and more attractive home. No materials compete with slate in terms of looks and longevity. 

As noted, the big drawbacks are the expensive installation costs and the additional weight this brings to your home. That can deter a lot of people – and you also may wish to avoid slate if you get a lot of hailstorms. Large chunks of hail are known to damage slate tiles/shingles quite badly, leading to costly repairs. 

Concrete Tiles

Homes in hotter climates are warming to the idea of a concrete tile roof. Being composed of concrete allows these roofs to pick up incredible attributes, such as: 

  • A 50-100 years+ lifespan
  • Available in many styles and colors
  • Wonderful wind resistance
  • Made from eco-friendly materials

It feels like an outstanding roofing material for most people – and concrete is highly cost-effective, so you are not paying through your nose for the installation. It is a fine choice for a home improvement project if you want to add more durability and protection to your home. The style choices are fantastic as well. Concrete tiles come in loads of shades and hues, but they are also used to replicate other roofing materials. You can have a concrete tile roof that looks like wood or clay yet retains all the features of concrete! 

This sounds like a material that will rise right to the top of your list, but do not forget about the potential downsides. Like slate, concrete is heavy, and roof reinforcement may be necessary, which will add to the overall installation costs. The biggest concern is what happens to concrete in cold temperatures. If you live in a very cold climate, this will not be the option for you, as concrete roofs are prone to cracking. However, if it never gets that cold where you live, then this could be the ideal roofing material. 

Ceramic Tiles

Some articles will collect ceramic and clay tiles as one thing, but we have split them up. They share similarities, though you will see a few key differences. For one, ceramic tiles are made out of clay and other materials. They are also coated in a glaze, which contributes to these amazing properties: 

  • Good water resistance
  • Available in a staggering color variety
  • Fairly durable
  • Very aesthetically pleasing

To be honest, people will usually only pick ceramic tiles for aesthetic reasons. They create a wonderful European look to your home and will make it feel like it has been plucked from the streets of Spain or Italy. 

Unfortunately, while they are durable enough to last for 50 years, ceramic tiles are prone to cracking and chipping under bad weather conditions. That’s why they’re largely used in the Mediterranean, where the climate tends to shift between hot and mild throughout the year, without a lot of rain or storms. 

Clay Tiles

There is a distinct beauty to clay tiles that makes them a popular roofing material. Compared to ceramic tiles, clay tiles are 100% made out of natural clay. They are molded and baked at extremely high temperatures to create the perfect tiles for a roof. This also deliveries some distinct features: 

  • A lovely reddish-brown look
  • Incredible durability
  • Great weather resistance
  • Highly energy efficient
  • Very low maintenance

Again, if you want to replicate the European-style home design, then clay tiles are a perfect option. They are also a wonderful choice for anyone looking to improve energy efficiency or if you want a very durable roof. Clay tiles are expected to last for over 100 years when kept in the right condition, and they require minimal maintenance. 

This all sounds excellent; what are the downsides? Well, the only problems with clay tiles are the initial investment costs and the installation. They are very expensive, and it is pretty hard to find the exact type of clay tile to replace any that might become damaged. Clay tiles also do not work very well on certain roof slopes – they are best reserved for shallow slopes instead of high-pitched ones. 

Rolled Asphalt

Often referred to as rolled roofing or MSR, this is one of the cheapest roofing materials out there. It comes as rolls of asphalt and is literally rolled onto the top of your roof. The advantages of this roofing material are as follows: 

  • Very affordable
  • Easy and cheap to install
  • Readily available
  • Easy to fix
  • Extremely lightweight

Your initial reaction is positive, but do not get overly excited. Rolled asphalt is almost never recommended for the main part of your home. It is not very durable and will need to be replaced in 5-10 years. It also looks a lot worse than all other roofing types. 

So, why would you even consider it? Rolled asphalt makes this list as it is a fantastic option for smaller dwellings. If you have a garden shed or a garage/carport, this is an affordable and easy way to put a roof on it. It might not be the ideal choice for your proper roof but do not discount it for other home improvement projects. 

Which Roofing Material Is The Best For You?

It all comes down to a few factors: 

  • What is your budget?
  • What is your local climate like?
  • What are your key goals with this roof?

Your answers will determine which roofing material is the best for your home. As an example, if money is no object and you live in a mixed climate that gets hot during the summer and cold/wet during the winter – and you want a durable and aesthetically pleasing roof – then slate is the best choice. 

But, if you have a tight budget, asphalt shingles might be more to your tastes. It will vary from person to person and household to household, but all of these roofing materials have benefits and uses in their own right.