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Staycation: My Ultimate Guide to the Best Holiday at Home

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Going on a staycation isn’t exactly new. But at the height of the pandemic, it has slowly become a norm for those who want to have a relaxing time yet have limited mobility. If you are not used to this type of R & R, I got you covered. I have here the ultimate guide for a staycation so that you can enjoy it and at the same time, temporarily forget your worries. These tips are lifted from my current staycation, so I know that it works. 

What is a Staycation? 

When I say staycation, this refers to a vacation typically near your home. It’s a practical way to remove stress, and it’s also more eco-friendly considering won’t leave much of a carbon footprint. Some choose nearby hotels or bed and breakfast, while others have staycations at their home. 

Whatever your choice is, you can always make your staycation worthwhile with the tips below. 

Start Unplugging and Enjoy a Social Media-Free Day

I hate to break this to you, but social media can be stressful. You get to see a lot of unverified news, which can also target your emotional and mental well-being. Also, there’s a possibility that you compare your life with others. You start to feel that you are not good enough because you can’t afford the same things that your friends could. Again, this isn’t healthy. 

When you have a staycation, it’s the perfect time to unplug. Instead, you can go back to reading or writing in your journal. If you haven’t been meditating in a while,  you could take advantage of this opportunity. 

You will soon realize that there’s no need to constantly scroll down through your feed. And what matters most is the life off-screen rather than the one deliberately posted for online followers.  

Work Out a Budget

Many people think that staycations are cheap. But this is not always the case, and the overall cost will depend on your chosen location and accommodation. Having said that, you need to determine a decent budget. That way, you won’t have to worry if you wish to have awesome food delivered to your room or if you want to buy an expensive bottle of champagne. 


You might think this isn’t practical. But quite frankly, splurging once in a while could be healthy. It helps you enjoy your hard-earned money. And it keeps you motivated to work smarter so you can have more.   

Unless you are going to stay at home, then building a huge budget might not be necessary. 

Set an Out of Office Response

Don’t forget to draft an automatic out of office response on your email. A staycation is no different from a traditional vacation where people don’t want to get bothered by problems, especially from work. 

To manage expectations and set boundaries, make sure that you create your OoO response ahead of time. Of course, do not forget to add an emergency contact number and highlight that this is just for urgent matters. Let the people know that you would rather not get disturbed and that you will get back to them once you are done with your well-deserved time off.     

Pre-Select Movies and TV Series to Watch

Have you ever experienced spending several minutes just to find the right movies and TV series to watch? I know I’m not the only ones. The thing is, your staycation time is limited. Would you want to spend 30 minutes of your time just choosing? 

A simple solution is to pre-select these before your staycation date. Write it down or add it to your playlist. That way, you can just turn on the TV, lounge on the couch or bed, and start stuffing yourself with pizza or popcorn – or whatever sinful food you desire.    

Consider Your Kids When Planning

As adults, we often look forward to a day of doing nothing. But if you have kids, things are different. They will eventually get bored, and chances are, they will throw tantrums for hours. 

A win-win situation is to think of activities that will keep them preoccupied as you try to enjoy your free time. If possible, look for accommodation where facilities are ideal for kids. Or if you can bring board games, Legos, or even coloring books, these should work just fine. 

Call Local Attractions Ahead of Time 

Ideally, staycations are meant to be spent in rooms where you can just relax and slowly enjoy every minute. 

However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t and won’t go out. Writing down nearby local attractions is a good idea so you can have a backup plan just in case you run out of good movies to watch or activities to do. 

Since the pandemic is still happening, you might want to call in advance and check if the attractions are open. Likewise, try to know their restrictions so you can prepare ahead.

Invite A Good Friend

You might also want to share your staycation experience with a friend. The advantage of inviting someone is that you can split the expenses and you can do more with your budget. 

However, you need to carefully choose whom to invite. As much as possible, they should respect your personal time and will give you space even if you are staying in just one room.  

Take Loads of Photos 

Don’t forget to take a lot of pictures as you enjoy your staycation. But be careful not to make it too orchestrated. Just act normally and try to capture the best moments whether you are doing it on your own or if you are with your friends and family. 

It’s always a great idea to keep happy moments so you can get back to it if ever you feel down. It keeps you inspired as well. Your photos are not just for your IG followers but for yourself. 

Have Fun! 

Like going on a conventional vacation, a staycation needs a lot of preparation. Sure, you can be impulsive and book a hotel room right away, but that could place a huge dent in your budget. As a rule of thumb, plan it ahead of time, set a budget, and enjoy. After all, you deserve it.

Check out this article on why you need to chill while on vacation.

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Lifestyle

Did You Drop Your Smartphone in The Ocean? Here’s How to Retrieve It

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drop your

Even if COVID-19 remains present after two years, it’s not stopping people from going on beach vacations. After all, cases aren’t as high as before, and many people have been vaccinated against the virus. And when it comes to beach vacations, it means more swimming and fun water activities, such as snorkeling, watching dolphins on the boat, and parasailing. We often get carried away with these activities, and unfortunate incidents befall us. One of those unavoidable incidents is accidentally dropping your smartphone into the ocean or sea. You’ve worked so hard to buy the device, only for it to slip away into the ocean. There’s a possibility that you can still retrieve it, though. But what do you do after you drop your smartphone in the ocean? Here’s what you need to do.

Look For Your Phone

Drop your smartphone in the ocean

You can still retrieve your phone from the ocean IF you accidentally dropped it in a shallow part of it. Use your feet or hands to feel for the phone. And if you have a net or something to scoop it up, do that too.

However, Do NOT in ANY CIRCUMSTANCES try to retrieve your phone IF it fell somewhere deep. You need to accept the fact that it’s long gone and is now with the sea. If this happens, contact your mobile phone provider immediately if you have a plan with them. They could help you with reassigning your old number to a new phone.

Switch the Phone Off and Leave it to Dry

Once you retrieve your phone, turn it off immediately. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to take snaps for your Instagram or create videos for TikTok. However, this is a necessary measure once it’s out of the water. Plus, make sure to dry it with a clean towel. Since you’re still at the beach and a few hours away from civilization, this is your best bet in ensuring your phone doesn’t take any more damage.

Remember the uncooked rice myth? Yeah, that’s not true. It’s no longer recommended to put your phone in uncooked rice because it will cause further corrosion. In an old interview, David Naumann said in the USA today that if you drop your smartphone in the ocean, you can put it inside a Ziplock bag. You’ll add purified water there and a pinch of baking soda. Baking soda is necessary to counter corrosion.

Bring It to A Pro ASAP

tools on wooden table

You can be tempted to fix your smartphone once you get home. But the best person to deal with this situation is a professional. It can be challenging to disassemble the phone, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process. Once you’re back home, immediately take it to a repair shop and tell them that you accidentally dropped it in the ocean.

Preventive Measures

To prevent any data loss, why not back up your files on a cloud? That way, if you lose your phone or drop it in the ocean, you can still have your files when you get a new one.

And if you’re going to the beach, make sure to put the smartphone inside a waterproof bag. It will keep your phone dry and secure!

Unfortunately, this guy can no longer retrieve his phone. And this is why you need to take preventive measures to avoid a scenario like this.

And for other stories, news, or tips, read more here at Owner’s Mag!

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Gift Guide: 25 Best Gifts for Women for All Occasions

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a woman's hands holding a gift

You don’t have to wait for the holidays to surprise the special women in your life. You can browse through this gift guide to find the best gifts for women for any occasion. These unique and thoughtful presents are sure to put a smile on their faces.

1. Dearfoams Memory Foam Slipper

slipper

Jessica Plush Criscroos Slippers by Dearfoams make a gorgeous yet functional gift for your mom, wife, daughter, or friend on any occasion. They’ll surely appreciate your gesture of helping them say goodbye to achy feet with these lovely slippers. 

Buy it now for $20

2. The Gift of Self-Love Workbook 

self love workbook

Give your favorite gal this heartfelt and relatable book for her self-love journey. The bestselling paperback has quizzes, writing exercises, and a step-by-step guide to express their emotions, feel motivated, and increase their self-confidence. 

Buy it now for $14

3. Sephora Favorites Makeup and Skincare Set

For women who love makeup, here’s a gift set from Sephora. This Clean Me Up Makeup and Skincare Value Set includes eight must-have beauty products enriched with skin-loving ingredients. It also includes products from Glow Recipe, Tower 28, Olehenriksen, and more.

Buy it now for $50

4. Akola Glow Unlock-it Bracelet

An unlock-it hinged bracelet, this unique and classy gift is ideal for all the special women in your life. It is perfect for all ages and styles, thanks to its timeless design. It features twin bezel-set designer crystal baguettes in a green emerald hue, engraved with the word GLOW.

Buy it now for $175

5. Tulianna and Alejandra Garces Rosebud Earrings 

Celebrate friendship, love, and romance with these pretty Birthstone Balloon Earrings by Tulianna and Alejandra Garces. The makers of these fancy earrings decided to cast colorful drops in a glassy eco-resin. Gift a set of these to someone special and show how much you love them. 

Buy it now for $30

6. Merokeety Knit Loungewear Set 

loungewear

Everyone needs comfy pajama sets to lounge around the house on a lazy weekend. So. grab a pair of this knitted casual nightwear from Merokeety. Besides, you could wear them separately, too, making it a perfect work-from-home OOTD. 

Buy it now for $36

7. No-Pressure Reading for Fun Journal from Uncommon Goods

Enhance the joy of reading with this thoughtfully designed journal. This helps the bibliophiles in your life with tracking their reading, reflecting on their favorites, or rediscovering the fun in books.

But it now for $22

8. Bubble Soy Candles 

Make your special someone smile by giving this scented cube-style candle in pastel colors. This lovely present is one of the cheapest yet most beautiful items in our women’s gift guides collection. 

But it now for $15

9. Mom Kindness Change-It-Up Clutch

clutch bag

 Any woman will love the functionality of this clutch which can fit all her essentials. And the proceeds from every purchase go to Every Mother Counts, a nonprofit organization that promotes safe pregnancy and childbirth for every mother everywhere.

But it now for $40

10. IUGA Navy Yoga Pants

yoga pants

These yoga leggings are a perfect present for women with an active lifestyle. It’s an ideal workout leggings made comfortable because of Four-way Stretch materials. 

Buy it now for $20

11. Pavoi Chunky Gold Hoop Earrings 

earrings

These Hoop Earrings are always best sellers! This thick hoop earring is crafted to be lightweight for easy all-day wear. They are Hypoallergenic; Nickel and Lead-Free with Stainless Steel Post

Buy it now for $12

12. Revlon One-Step Volumizer Enhanced 1.0 Hair Dryer and Hot Air Brush

hair brush

With this Revlon revolutionary blow dryer brush, she can finish her hair in minutes. Surprise your significant other, sister, or best friend with this product that promises salon-quality results and less hassle of booking a pricey hair appointment.

Buy it now for $29

13. Ztujo Purse Organizer

purse organizer

Your mom or friend who carries everything with her at all times 100 percent needs one of these organizational inserts for her bottomless pit of purse.

Buy it now for $8

14. Senia Hot and Cold Facial Steamer

facial steamer

Show love for your favorite person by helping de-stress and regularly cleanse your skin. It has a calming nature of warm and cool mist and aromatherapy. Gift this wellness gadget to the woman you adore, and she’ll thank you for your thoughtfulness. 

Buy it now for $101

15. Masters Creative Custom Line Art Portrait

line art portrait

These custom line art portraits could be a perfect gift for those who love the minimalist look. Straight from the U.K, you can have it delivered as a digital file. Or have it printed on high-quality paper and shipped directly to you or the recipient. 

Buy it now for $12

16. Sophie Faux Fur Throw Blanket

This cozy blanket like this one from Anthropologie is a universal gift idea. This plush throw will keep her comfortable whether she’s always chilly or loves snuggling up on the couch. Plus, it comes in various colors you don’t usually find in faux fur blankets, including ochre, teal, mauve, and more.

Buy it now for $98

17. Invigorate Shower Steamers Gift Set

Energize your giftee’s shower with this Invigorate Shower Steamer gift set. It contains essential oils and aromatherapy scents, including cedar, orange, and pine. This luxurious gift is made from natural ingredients and is handmade in California.

Buy it now for $29

18. The Citizenry Aegean Cotton Bath Robe

bathrobe

This luxe bathrobe is the perfect gift for anyone who wants to feel at a hotel after a shower. It’s soft, absorbent, and has pockets that the recipient will love! 

Buy it now for $87.20

19. Flower Subscription

Give a gift that keeps on giving with this flower subscription. They’ll enjoy a new bouquet of mixed blooms each month for six months! Each arrangement is a work of art with some of the world’s most beautiful flowers. Get roses, sunflowers, hydrangeas, alstroemeria, and more.

Buy it now for $310

20. mDesign Stackable Storage Box

box

Keep clutter under control by keeping favorite jewelry and accessories in one place. These stackable containers feature multiple compartments in various sizes providing plenty of options. 

Buy it now for $20

21. Coyuchi Dillon Organic French Terry Cardigan

cardigan

You can never fail with comfortable loungewear as a present. This French terry cardigan, for example, is perfect for days when she doesn’t want to wear PJs or a robe but still wants to feel cozy. It’s made with organic cotton and has pockets for when she needs to stash lip balm or keep her hands warm.

Buy it now for $30

22. Papier Colorblock Notebook

notebook

This notebook from Papier is a gem for bullet journaling enthusiasts. The colors, cover, and paper type are customizable in many ways. You can also get it personalized with the recipient’s full name, initials, or inspirational quote.

Buy it now for $23

23. Crystal Green Beaded Bag

This cute handmade bag is made with natural beads and the perfect for holding your keys, wallet, and cards. It comes in a light green color that is semi-transparent, but totally eye-catching!

Buy it for $63

24. Custom Handwriting Necklace 

necklace

Buy this dainty necklace customized in your own words and handwriting so she can carry it wherever she goes. 

Buy it now for $220

25. Rachael Ray Create Delicious Nonstick Cookware Set 

cookware set

These pots and pans are a perfect present for your wife, who loves to cook. The cookware set features PlatinumShield Technology enhanced non-stick reinforced to be nine times harder than titanium. 

Buy it now for $169

We hope you liked what we featured in this list of women gift guides. Enjoy your early holiday shopping! And if you want more gift ideas for your loved ones, check them out here at Owner’s Mag!

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Top 10 Best Places to Buy a Mid Century Modern Office Chair

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What was once old is new again: mid century modern is back in style. From architecture to furniture, the postwar look is in, and the hype extends all the way to office chairs.

Do you need a mid century modern office chair in your life? If so, there’s plenty to choose from. Your office chair should be tailored to your style, whether you like luxury, utility, or something in between.

That’s why we’ve put together our 10 favorite places to find your ideal mid century modern office chair.

What is mid century modern design?

After World War II, spirits were high in the US, and new technology was taking the country by storm. Mid century modern refers to the design concepts that came about during this time.

As opposed to the frilly, ornate designs of classical furnishings, mid century modern designs are angular, material, and functional. Wood is a common design element, especially teak. Mid century modern furniture may also have materials like glass, vinyl, and metal. Designs are simple and geometric, with bold accent colors to make them pop.

The mid century modern aesthetic never really went away, but it’s made a noted comeback in recent years. Some have chalked it up to Boomer and Gen X nostalgia, others point to mid-century-set shows like Mad Men and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.

Why should I buy a mid century modern office chair?

A mid century modern office design
source: Modsy

Mid century modern is the perfect fusion of style and utility. If you want to cultivate an office space that commands respect without being ostentatious, mid century modern is the style for you.

When it comes to office chairs, an MCM one is often made with sturdy wood and vinyl. They combine the ergonomics of a modern office chair with old-fashioned grace.

If you’re concerned with utility and utility only, a more bog-standard office chair may suit you. But a mid century modern office chair is great for someone who wants to wow colleagues with a mature, thoughtful business space.

Where can I get a mid century modern office chair?

1) Wayfair

mid-century office chair

When it comes to furniture, Wayfair offers the best of both worlds. Their goods, including their mid century modern office chairs, are stylish and affordable. You can get a sturdy task chair for less than $100 or a more distinguished seat for less than $350.

MCM office chair examples: Dovray ($126), Bradford ($139), Lithonia ($133)

2) France & Son

mid-century office chair

Wayfair’s chairs are affordable, but France & Son is the perfect option for luxury shoppers. Their mid century modern office chairs are robust and sleekly designed. If you dress to impress and enjoy the finer things in life, these are the chairs for you.

MCM office chair example: Brooks ($695)

3) Houzz

mid-century office chair

Started as a community for people to share home decor tips, Houzz has become a great ecommerce platform for finding stylish furniture. They’re more known for home decor than desk chairs, but they have plenty of great, affordable finds if you know where to look.

MCM office chair examples: Arvilla ($173), Rathburn ($259)

4) Laura Davidson

mid-century office chair

The Laura Davidson collection offers a fairly limited selection of classic office furniture. Still, there’s a reason they’re trusted by big-wigs like Apple, Disney, and Salesforce. Their chairs are sturdy and beautifully designed, reimagining classic Eames and Knoll designs.

MCM office chair examples: Rockefeller ($275), SOHO II Soft Pad ($450)

5) Icons of Manhattan

mid-century office chair

Icons of Manhattan has a simple philosophy: do one thing, and do it right. Their office chairs are handcrafted from premium materials and tailored to a mid-century modern style. If you want that Mad Men energy in your office (hopefully with a lot less angst), these are the chairs for you.

MCM office chair example: Ribbed Medium ($219)

6) Amazon

mid-century office chair

Yes, the internet’s premier shopping destination has a robust collection of mid century modern office chairs. Like with most products, their selection of seats is vast and can be hit or miss. Still, they’ve got stunning chairs available for any style, whether you care about comfort, class, or ergonomics.

MCM office chair examples: IDS Home Modern ($219), Art Leon MCM Swivel ($139)

7) AllModern

mid-century office chair

AllModern’s collection of desk chairs and other furniture truly embodies the mid century modern spirit. Their work is tight, angular, and functional above all. They’re part of the Wayfair family and they traffic in a number of modern styles, but their sleek chairs are perfect for any mid century modern space.

MCM office chair examples: Frederick ($229), Kealey ($349)

8) Overstock

mid-century office chair

Overstock is known as a one-stop shop for quality home goods at sub-wholesale prices. If you want a spiffy mid century modern office chair that won’t break the bank, they’re the first place to look. While they’re somewhat less reliable than the more upscale platforms on this list, their selection is massive.

MCM office chair example: Joseph Modern ($163)

9) Walmart

mid-century office chair

Hayneedle’s selection of mid-century modern office chairs falls somewhere between the minimal Laura Davidson and the endless Amazon catalog. Their array of mid-century designs is affordable and versatile, with chairs that match almost any style. While they may be part of the Walmart family, these chairs are anything but second-rate.

MCM office chair example: Waleaf ($97)

10) Target

mid-century office chair

Why splurge when you can save? As usual, Target is a hidden gem, offering a sturdy selection of mid century modern office chairs for some of the cheapest prices out there. Many of the chairs they offer are from the same designers as these other stores—Christopher Knight, LumiSource, Armen Living, etc.—at reduced prices.

MCM office chair example: Lombardi ($136)

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