10 Things You Should Know About Getting a 2nd DUI

Whether you’re facing your second DUI or recovering from your first, there are a few things you need to know. Reaching your second offense comes with serious consequences. Not only are the fines higher and time spent in jail longer, but you could face life-altering repercussions without an excellent DUI attorney. Here’s everything you need to know. 

Penalties

Anytime you are pulled over for a DUI, the officer on the scene does a criminal background check to identify any prior offenses. If you received a DUI in the past ten years, then this will be your second. Keep in mind that the number of years in-between does change from state to state. 

After your arrest, you could face up to a year in county jail. Fines range from a minimum of $390 to over $1,000. Penalty assessments are also levied, typically multiplying the amount of your fine by five. That turns a $390 fine into $1,950. 

The judge may still choose to wave your fine during trial with a second DUI, sentencing you to community labor instead. In some cases, judges have simple extended the jail time for those who cannot pay the fine. 

Losing Your License

Fines are just the beginning of the legal ramifications you stand to face. Nearly every state also revokes your license for a duration of one year. However, a judge can rule that your license be suspended for multiple years if they choose to do so. 

Ignition Interlock Device

Each county decides whether or not to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. These devices require you to pass a breathalyzer before your car can start. Counties also decide how much alcohol is allowed in your system by the device. In some cases, you must be under the legal limit. In others, you must be alcohol-free. 

Classes and AA Meetings

DUI classes are almost always mandatory, according to a car accident attorney. They last anywhere from 12 to 30 months. Upon completion, your driving privileges are renewed. In the meantime, you’ll have to find other ways to work and your obligations. 

AA meetings, on the other hand, are a continuing program that you are required to attend. Mothers Against Drunk Driving is an alternative program you might be able to partake in. These classes are designed to help you make better decisions about drinking in the future. 

Time to Recovery

On average, it takes about seven and a half months for your case to conclude. During that time, you must appear at each court date regardless of work or other responsibilities. You will not be allowed to drive during that time, which adds a considerable length to your license suspension. 

While you can’t avoid the charges altogether, speaking with an attorney that specializes in DUI cases can help you receive the minimum punishments the law in your county allows. They can help you get back on your feet sooner without a severe financial burden hanging over your head.

How You Can Overcome These Traumas To Become A Stronger Individual

In life there are going to be ups and downs with much of our character being developed by how we respond during the down times. There are those people that will lay down and give up while others will fight to find the lesson in even the worst circumstances. The best thing that a person can do is to stay positive after they have endured a trauma as panicking or getting depressed will not solve anything. A proactive approach to things like physical therapy or couples counseling can help us get through even the toughest of situations. The following are tips to help you overcome specific traumas in order to become a stronger individual.

Injured In Car Accident

Being injured due to the fault of another party can be one of the most frustrating things imaginable. The best thing that you can do is focus on your recovery and start living in a healthy manner. If you have injured your knee or leg remember to try to lose weight if possible as this will make recovery much faster. Take pictures of the scene of the accident so you can have evidence of your innocence in the wreck if a lawsuit is filed by you or the other party.

Aviation Accident

An aviation accident can be traumatizing to say the least and even lead to lasting mental trauma. There was a United Airlines accident where landing was an issue with the plane veering off to the left of the runway. For those people that feel like they have lasting impacts of this type of situation see a professional as you might be suffering from PTSD. Many people feel helpless on planes as it is, imagine being involved in some kind of issue and having to get back on an airplane. This can be something that impacts the quality of life you have for the rest of your life so seek professional treatment.

Caught Spouse Cheating

Catching a spouse cheating is going to be devastating regardless of the mitigating circumstance. A divorce is life changing in positive ways but there are negative components as well. If your ex has been rewarded custody of the children if you have any this can be as terrible of a situation as possible for a loving parent. If you suspect that your spouse has been cheating look into it as you deserve to know. People do not just admit to cheating unless they are caught for the most part so you will need to confront it.

Losing Your Dream Job

The loss of a dream job can do a few negative things in terms of your finances. Losing a job always comes with these consequences but losing your dream job comes with other serious implications. There is a chance that you never find a job that you like as much again but this is not the mindset to search for jobs in. Stay positive and have high energy in interviews even if the role is not your dream role. Never stop searching even if you find a job as another job you enjoy is not going to wait until you are unemployed again!

Overcoming obstacles makes us who we are presently so think of negative circumstances as something to grow from!

Simple Small Bathroom Decorating Tips

If you want to decorate a smaller bathroom, there are different challenges that appear. For instance, you have to deal with the smaller possible design layout. Space is highly limited so lavish use is not possible. You need to use smaller furnishings and cannot add many items. Here at Fix It Right Plumbing we fully understand the challenges of decorating a small bathroom. Fortunately, there are many different things that can be done, as long as you have the information to do so.

Some of the things that you can usually do include:

  • Floors

Always use light-colored, large tiles on the small bathroom’s floor. Light beige, gray and white are wonderful options since they instantly create the illusion of having more available space.

  • Walls

You also have to choose lighter colors when you paint the walls. You do not necessarily have to go for beige or white, but you should avoid darker colors. They just make walls seem closer than they are.

  • Sinks

The best option to consider is a wall mounted, small sink that does not have vanities. It allows you to get more floor space. If there is more visible space on the floor, the small bathroom instantly appears to be larger.

  • Cabinets

A great thing that you can do is install cabinets that can easily be set right into your wall. Open shelves or cabinet doors are always preferred. Unbroken, smooth wall surfaces make the bathroom look wider and longer. Cabinet doors have to be painted so that they match wall color.

  • Mirrors

It is a really good idea to hang larger mirrors. They reflect space and will always make the smaller bathroom look as if it is double the size. Larger mirrors can be added right above sinks. You can even add extra mirrors if possible.

  • Bathtub

It is possible to have a bathtub installed in a smaller bathroom. If this is the case, replace it with a shower stall that has clear-glass-door. This instantly frees up space. Alternatively, you can go for the Japanese style bathtub since it is extra deep and small. You have a tub that is large enough for the smaller children and a shower for adults. Add a curtain and a shower whenever possible.

  • Accessories

Simply because you have a smaller bathroom does not mean you cannot add accessories. You just need to be smart about what you choose. A great opportunity available is contacting RV suppliers. They have wonderful accessories that can be added to smaller bathrooms. For instance, you can always install tumbler holders, toothbrush holders and acrylic mounts.

  • Plants And Pictures

It is always a very good idea to use plants and pictures. Prints or photos that are mounted in clear frames can so easily create a wonderful decorating theme. This is a preferred option for the smaller bathroom as the theme is created without having to use too many items. Combine everything with towels of a suitable color and do the exact same thing with shower curtains.

5 Hacks to Help You Afford Car Repairs

If you’ve ever had a car break down, you know how much financial stress it can cause. Car problems can occur randomly, but routine maintenance is also something that also needs to be considered. While mechanic costs can add up fast, the following guidelines can help you keep maintenance and repair expenses low.

Do Your Research

Those who don’t have the best idea of how to estimate a car repair can benefit greatly from doing a little research before they send their car to the mechanic. One study found that people can end up with a better cost for the repairs if they make an effort to look into the problem beforehand. Knowing what the fix should be priced at can work in your favor. Websites like Driverside and AutoMD can help you determine where the problem might lie and how much it should cost to have fixed.

Even those who don’t have in-depth knowledge about their vehicle can have better luck at the mechanic’s shop. “Look into the problem beforehand, ask as many questions as you want, and if you feel unsure about anything, move on to a different mechanic. If you haven’t signed anything, you’re not obligated to work with them,” explained Jason Chalik, car accident lawyer in Plantation. The peace of mind will assure you that you’re on the right track.

Look for Discounts and See What Your Warranty Covers

Sometimes, Pep Boys and Meineke put coupons online, and even these can save you some cash. Warranties on new cars usually last until 36,000 miles or three years. Repairs will likely be taken care of if your car is still within those time restrictions. Used cars can also be covered if you purchase an aftermarket warranty.

Look for a Reliable Mechanic that You Trust

An honest mechanic can save you a great deal of money. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence endorses mechanics after they have demonstrated proficiency in every aspect of car maintenance and repair, and their website is the best place to locate a mechanic if you haven’t found one yet. AAA also recommends mechanics. Or, see which repair shop your family and friends take their cars to. Reviews can also prove useful as a last resort, and get a second opinion if you’re in doubt.

Stay on Top of Recommended Maintenance

Some services might not be absolutely necessary, but prioritizing certain maintenance tasks can save you a lot of grief later. Check your owner’s manual to see what your car needs, and avoid spending money on work that doesn’t need to be done until you reach a certain mileage. Certain checks can be done yourself, such as looking at the fluid level or changing the oil. Many instructional repair videos are available on AutoZone and other reputable websites that can help get you started.

In summary, being proactive can save you a great deal of expense and frustration when it comes to your vehicle. Do you have any other tips for finding a good mechanic fast? What do you look for when taking your car in for a tune-up?

Women Authors to Celebrate This Women’s History Month

In honor of Women’s History Month, I’ve put this list of women authors that will inspire. Check out their books with strong female leads.  These female protagonists take charge of their destiny. With courage and strength, these writers are creating stories that empower.

Debra Tash

In Debra Tash’s new book Last Call, Rebecca refuses to be another bystander as her freedoms are stripped away. This leading female character takes charge and starts a revolution. Last Call is a dystopian novel that warns us to be mindful of giving the government too much power.

Find on Amazon


Konni Granma

The Lonely Hearts Bar features Connie, a sharp, witty and wickedly talented student screenwriter. We follow Connie as she meets many important people in her life, all connected to a dusty old tavern outside of LA.

Find on Amazon


Yanique Beliard-Michel

Yanique’s memoir, Unique in America, will be released in April. The story of her growing up and coming to America packs a punch. Be inspired by her sacrifices, losses and strong will to provide the best life possible for her and her daughters. Pre order your copy and share in her triumph.


Pre-Order on Amazon


Barbara Morriss

Barbara Morriss specializes in mysterious love stories.  Her latest novel, A Promise in Autumn releases soon. A Promise in Autumn is the struggle of a displaced Irish girl trying to find a sense of home. She falls in love with a protestant and wonders why her church does not recognize the marriage of two. Her resolve to be with the man she loves despite her the lack of support is inspiring.

Pre-Order on Amazon


Laurel Anne Hill

Laurel Anne Hill is a new up-and-coming young adult author. She has won numerous awards for her latest novel, The Engine Woman’s Light. This steampunk adventure follows a young woman as she discovers her destiny – to save the unwanted.

Find on Amazon


Laurie Finkelstein

Author Laurie doesn’t take life too seriously. Her novel, Next Therapist Please is loosely based off Laurie’s experiences, and you will see how her sense of humor and positive attitude has served her well. Laurie hopes to encourage other’s to break the stigma of  mental illness, one laugh at a time.

Find on Amazon

RTA Kitchen Cabinets for A Luxury Renovation

If your kitchen is looking worse for wear and tear, or it just does not meet your current idea of comfort, décor, and functionality, it is time for a renovation. One of the biggest steps to accomplishing a terrific renovation without a huge price tag is to decide to change your kitchen cabinets.

There are times where you do not need to pull out the entire cabinet area, countertops, and sink area or remodel the whole room. Sometimes, getting new cabinets is the only thing the room needs to give you the results you want.

With all the choices available, especially online, finding the right cabinets with all the hardware you want in the color you need can be a pricey venture. If you feel like you will have to settle for less-than-perfect cabinets with your remodel or renovation, think again.

Think RTA Kitchen Cabinets

This is a concept that may be new to you. If you want to renew your kitchen and you want to start with beautiful, quality-made wood cabinets, this is something to think about.

RTA means ready to assemble. You buy RTA kitchen cabinets online or from a catalog and wait for them to ship to you. You get everything you need including hardware or molding. These cabinets only need for you to follow the directions included to install them, and your renovation is done!

You can get beautiful cabinets for your kitchen that look like luxury cabinets, but they come without the luxury price. Because the manufacturer saves on assembling them for you, they can pass savings on to you. Because you do the installation, you save on installation charges, too.

Quality Matters

Experts in the RTA kitchen cabinet industry know how to source the materials from eco-friendly sources. They know how to get them finished and designed in styles and colors that contemporary kitchens beg for.

Shop online from reputable industry experts and find your perfect kitchen cabinets now. Everything comes to you, so you can get busy on installing your cabinets right away. If you ever need help installing them, you can call the company for detailed instructions.

Your kitchen remodeling job will turn out beautiful, and the quality of RTA cabinets will be no less than that of professionally installed cabinets. You will love the results and best of all, you can take pride knowing that you did the work yourself and saved a lot of money in the process!

Get Started Now

Visit the online catalog of the RTA cabinet professionals and find the designs and styles you most want. You can get a free sample of the one that interests you the most. This is a great way to see if the color and tone of the wood is right for your tastes and the kitchen space you have.

While you save money on these cabinets, you do not compromise on quality. You can remodel your kitchen at a discounted price and still have it look like it was done by an interior design professional using luxury cabinetry.

5 Tips to touring Ireland for the first time

When you visit a country for the first time, there are many things that can easily baffle you. How welcoming the people are will determine how you will love or hate your experience in that particular country. When you are visiting Ireland for the first time, you will for sure love the friendliness of the population. You will meet with instant warmth of the people that for sure no coat or scarf can provide. You will love the fact that there is so much to see and do in this country. For the people who have not been to this country, this post will help you to know what to expect. You could still get more information on goirishtours.com website.

Here are 5 tips to help you when touring Ireland for the first time:

  1. When should you visit?

This is a very important thing that you need to consider before you decide to visit Ireland. This is because the weather in this country is quite unpredictable. It rains on a daily basis in most parts of this country. The best time to visit would be March and April, as there are milder temperatures and sunny days. You could also decide to visit during the summer period. However, since this is the peak season, you will have to pay more for the experience.

  1. Guided tours are advised

This country is steeped in deep history. As such, there are lots of culturally significant things that you can learn from wherever you go. A local tour guide would help you to enjoy the tour. With a guided tour, you will immerse yourself into the local culture, foods, climate, history, and so on. You will learn more than guidebooks would provide.

  1. Be prepared for the  weather

As with every other kind of a visit, you need to prepare for the weather in Ireland. This country is known for lots of rain and overcast weather. As such, the right travel gear that will keep you warm and dry is advised. You may also need to carry with you some water resistant clothes. Water resistant boots, a pocket umbrella, and a rain jacket should also be part of your gear. In short, carry suitable clothing that will keep you comfortable both indoors and outdoors.

  1. Take your time during the tours

If you are planning to tour Dublin, you should take your time since this is a small city. It is true there are many things and places to see and visit but you should take enough time and visit all the places of interest. Well, this will depend on whether you have lots of time to be in the city. The country is not big and therefore, it won’t take you long to travel between towns or places. You should for sure take time to enjoy the culture of this country.

  1. Take advantage of the public transport system

This country has a well-developed public transportation system. As such, you can navigate many cities and towns as well as other places of interest affordably. The Leap Visitor Card will give you access to the public transport system and consequently give you a leeway to travel on the cheap.

Tips For A Great Family Vacation In Arizona

There is more to Scottsdale than just golf, spas, and Spring Training baseball. This desert paradise has no shortage of exciting and interesting things to see and do. Conveniently located just a few miles to the east of Phoenix, Scottsdale has enough activities to appeal to everyone in your travel party. Whether you choose a swanky boutique hotel or a family friendly Scottsdale hotel and resort, this area is an ideal home base for any Arizona family vacation. Here are five of the best ideas to consider when planning your trip to Scottsdale:

OLD TOWN SCOTTSDALE

As the heart and soul of the city, this community gathering place boasts an extensive collection of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The rideshare bicycles are an ideal way to check out all of the offerings. Grab a cup of coffee at one of many cafes and you will be on your way to a day full of fun in this artsy and trendy area of Scottsdale.

ODYSEA IN THE DESERT

This world-class entertainment destination boasts five unique attractions, guaranteed to appeal to everyone in your travel party. The Pangea Land of the Dinosaurs features over 50 dinosaur animatronic figures while the Bodies Revealed traveling exhibit provides a fascinating glimpse into the workings of the human body. Dolphinaris gives guests the opportunity to get up close and personal with live dolphins while butterflies are the main attraction at the Butterfly Wonderland. Lastly, the OdySea Aquarium will delight guests with an abundance of marine life viewing opportunities. There truly is something for everyone at OdySea in the Desert.

SHOP TIL YOU DROP

Scottsdale is a shopping mecca. In addition to the eclectic vibe of Old Town Scottsdale, the city boasts an incredible variety of shopping centers. The Shops at Gainey Village features a mix of upscale chain retailers and trendy local boutiques. The Scottsdale Waterfront area beckons visitors with its trendy mix of shops and dining establishment. Whatever your shopping fancy, you will be sure to find it while out and about in Scottsdale.

MCDOWELL SONORAN PRESERVE

This vast nature preserve is an ideal place to get out and enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors. The 200 miles of trails is a haven for outdoor recreation enthusiasts. As home to many different types of animals, plants, and birds, visiting the McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a great way to become familiar with the geography of the area while getting in a good workout. Be sure to bring along lots of water!

WESTERN SPIRIT – SCOTTSDALE’S MUSEUM OF THE WEST

The rich tradition, culture, and history of the Wild West are brought to life in this comprehensive museum. A variety of exhibits including a collection of Hopi pottery art and photographs by Barry Goldwater helps visitors to understand this region’s place in the history of the United States. A stunning theater serves as a gathering place for many people in the community.

Your family trip to Arizona will be sure to be a hit with Scottsdale at the heart of your travel itinerary.

What Ohio Has To Offer For A Family Vacation

Ohio lies in the heartland of America. This is a great place to raise a family. It’s also a fantastic place for a family vacation. Fun places like amusement parks, incredible big cities and hotels in Dublin Ohio mean that mom and dad can spend lots of happy days exploring this state with their kids.

Cedar Point and Kings Island

Amusement parks are at the top of the list when planning activities kids and parents alike can enjoy. Ohio is home to two of the best. Located in Sandusky, Cedar Point is one of the oldest amusement parks in the country and still going strong. This is the place to head for kids who love thrills. Large and fast roller coasters bring excitement and delight teens. Nine family rides make it easy for the little ones to have just as much fun. Kings Island is another popular Ohio family destination. Planet Snoopy invites younger kids for a great time while some of the best coasters in the world are understandably popular with older kids.

Water Park at Kalahari Resort

The Kalahari resort is an indoor water park. This makes the perfect destination when the cold weather comes down from the north. The resort has many rides for kids of all ages. There’s body surfing for kids who want to how to balance as the waves come crashing down next to them. Parents can opt for a day pass or decide to stay at the resort for a longer trip over the holiday breaks.

Downtown Cleveland

Cleveland is one of the state’s largest cities and a treasure trove of activities for families. The downtown area has been spiffed up and redone to invite even more visitors. Kids can explore the world famous Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with happy parents in tow. There’s also lots of other things to see. The Cleveland Museum of Art offers national and international art exhibitions all year long. The Great Lakes Science Center is right nearby for kids who love bio, chemistry and physics.

Columbus Fun

The state’s capital, Columbus is very much a terrific combination of big city life and small town charm. It’s the fifteenth largest city in the country. Check out the German Village and shop for treats. The Columbus Zoo has plenty of things for kids to see in person. It’s an ideal day trip for kids who love animals and parents who have some spare time. The Center of Science and Industry makes it easy to spark a child’s imagination with wonderful examples of historic discoveries and lots of hands on activities on every level.

Kelleys Island

Kelleys Island is the largest island in clean and pretty Lake Erie. At one end, there’s lots of shops and restaurants for a nice lunch or dinner. Along the other side of the park, there’s miles of endless beaches where kids can dip their feet in the sand. The waves and sand are warm and soft so it’s just right for even young toddlers. Much of the island is a state park so it’s a good choice for parents on a budget in search of wonderful summer fun. Trails bring kids and adults into the island’s interior for a nature walk.

3 Tips to Investing in the Best Blinds

If you are looking forward to sprucing up your room, whether in your home or for a business, blinds can make it more elegant and professional. Good blinds are pleasing to the eyes and also functional at the same time. They are usually installed on windows, creating an interesting focal point in the room.

In terms of style and needs, a good professional can help you with every detail and also advise you on the blinds most suitable for your home or business.

  1.    Style

It is advisable to know what you want because styles and preferences vary from one person to the other. There are various types of blinds and if you check into stores and see what types suit your style. Roller shades, plantation shutters and mini blinds and vertical blinds are just a few from the many varieties.

Where the blinds can be installed really matters when it comes to style; it can be in the bedroom which means you need to go for blinds that darkens the room a little bit in case of privacy. All in all, a professional whose is experienced in installing blinds and also is well informed with blind details.

  1.    Privacy and safety Control

When someone says they need safety, mostly it is from the outside world and setting blinds on windows can help with being safe. Depending on the type of blinds you choose for your home, your family can either be protected or not protected.

In United States and Canada new window safety standards were approved in January by the Window Covering Association. The approval also covered safety when it comes to blinds being sold and cordless ones are recommended because according to research they are the safest.

Ensure that the blinds are installed properly to protect your children or pets from injuries. Linking chains and corded blinds can attract pets like cats as a toy and them hanging on them to play may put them at a risk of being strangled. Blinds are selling at a higher rate mainly because of the need of light, privacy and safety reasons.

  1.    Outside-In look

As much as blinds are set in homes or businesses for functionality, it is important that you also consider it form because it matters a lot. Let your expensive or your cheap or affordable blinds speak volumes when it comes to something that appeals to the eyes.

An eye catching blind can make your home not only be bright but it should also look trendy and ambient. It should be something that is able to last for years and still be proud of its elegance after all the years since they were installed.

Pay close attention to the measurements you give when ordering blinds online. Otherwise the blinds would close unevenly and this can make your room window look unfinished thus, not appealing. Many needs can be sorted by different roller blinds that are in the market that have high degree fabrics.