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How To Improve Your Life & Feel Happier

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There are times when you may experience setbacks or find yourself in a slump. This is normal but you also don’t want to get stuck in one place for too long.

The good news is that there are steps you can take so you can turn your situation around for the better. It’s all about being more mindful about the choices you make and how you want to live your life. It’s important to take good care of yourself and put your needs first. Here you can learn how to improve your life and feel happier.

Exercise & Move More

If you want to improve your life and feel happier then get regular exercise. There are many benefits it offers for your mental and physical health. Working out often is also an effective way to reduce and manage stress. You must move more if you have a sedentary job or lifestyle currently. It may help to get a fitness tracker so you can monitor the amount of steps you’re getting daily. You may also want to join a gym where you can weight lift and take group exercise classes. Create a playlist of your favorite songs and invest in comfortable activewear to help keep you motivated to exercise.

Find A Home & Neighborhood You Like

Where you live can impact how happy you feel. You want to find a home and neighborhood that you like and where you feel at ease. You may discover that now is the perfect time to pack up and move. In this case, consider using a quitclaim deed to transfer your old home to your kids so you know your previous home will be in good hands. Then you can work on finding a new place to live that will be more suitable for you and your family members. Once you’re moved in you can work on personalizing and updating your spaces to your liking.

Eat Nourishing Food

If you eat out all the time you may be spending more money than you prefer and consuming more calories overall. Eating nourishing food can improve your life and health. There are even foods that can increase or decrease anxiety levels. It will be helpful to get in the habit of cooking for yourself at home. This will give you more control over the ingredients you are using and portion sizes. You may come to find that cooking is a very rewarding and enjoyable activity. If you’re having trouble sticking to your diet then you may want to consider keeping a food journal. This way you can quickly identify problem areas and make changes to your eating habits.

Practice Meditation & Mindfulness

It’s also important that you nurture your mental health if you want to improve your life and feel happier. Work on slowing down and practicing mindfulness. This entails living in the present moment and not worrying too much about the past or future. You may also want to start engaging in a regular meditation practice. There are apps you can download on your phone so that you can listen to guided meditations whenever you please. Meditation can help you slow racing thoughts and get in better touch with your feelings and emotions. Be patient with yourself because meditating can be tricky when you are first getting started. However, stick with it and it won’t be long before you notice you feel better and have more natural energy.

Secure A Job You Enjoy

Working takes up a lot of your time and energy. You don’t want to be stuck in a dead-end job that doesn’t challenge you. Now is a good time to revisit what you are most passionate about and brush up on your skills. Focus on securing a job that you love and enjoy and makes you feel good about yourself. You may even be motivated to want to work for yourself and start your own company. Working for yourself can be quite rewarding and will offer you greater flexibility in your schedule. It may take some time before you land your dream job so be patient with yourself during your job search.

Get Enough Sleep

You want to avoid feeling sluggish and having to drag yourself through the day. Therefore, you will want to make sure you’re getting plenty of good sleep. This way you can wake up feeling refreshed and ready to seize each new day. It will help if you set up a bedroom retreat that helps you feel calm the minute you step foot in the space. Invest in a comfortable mattress and bedding and have plenty of storage solutions in place so you can keep the room clean and tidy. Engage in a relaxing bedtime routine such as reading a book or taking a warm bath. Playing on your devices or electronics will stimulate your mind and body before bedtime so try to avoid this if you can. Do your best to get on a regular sleep schedule where you’re going to bed and waking up around the same time each day.

Maintain Healthy Relationships

Another way to improve your life and feel happier is to maintain healthy relationships. Make it a point to surround yourself with positive people. You want individuals in your life who are encouraging and uplifting. Now is a good opportunity to re-evaluate your inner circle of friends and make some changes if necessary. It will be nice to have people in your life who you can lean on when you are facing problems or struggles. You’ll also enjoy having more of a social life and going out and having some fun with the people who you care about the most.

Conclusion

You now know what it will take to improve your life and feel happier. All it will require is you to make some adjustments to how you are living currently. Be willing to put in the hard work so that you can feel your best and keep a smile on your face. These are some great ideas to get you started down a more rewarding path in your life.

Friends, in what ways are you ensuring your happiness this season at home? Please leave your thoughts in the comment below.

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From Injury to Wellness: A Guide to Recovering from an Accident

An experience that changes your life is getting an accident on the job or anywhere else. Healing is a long journey, often involving more than just the physical aspect. Having a grasp of what needs to be done and where some support is is crucial for rehab which will get you through it more smoothly, quickly, and fully, this guide offers a 360º framework to get you from injured to well.

1. Immediate Medical Advice Sought

Immediately following any accident, the most important step is to receive immediate medical treatment. Even if you think that your injuries are minor, it is important to seek a professional opinion. Not all injuries are obvious right off the bat that you may have sustained but over time they can cause to develop later if left untreated. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions, and go for regular monitoring visits. The earlier that you seek help, the faster those injuries will heal, and less damage will be done.

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2. Create a Rehabilitation Plan

A rehabilitation plan is essential for a proper recovery from an injury and needs to be well-organized. A similar plan should be designed to meet your specific injuries and overall health instead. This may be followed by physical therapy to restore movement and strength, as well as occupational therapy to help you gradually return to your daily activities.

With the help of your healthcare team, you can establish goals that are both obtainable as well as a timeline to achieve them. Sticking to your rehabilitation plan is key to attaining the optimal result.

3. Mental and Emotional Health

But getting over a crash isn’t just about the physical healing, emotional and mental health take an equal stage. You can expect to be left with all kinds of emotional issues, from trauma and anxiety to depression after an accident. Reaching out to a mental health professional can allow you access to coping methods and emotional support.

Being part of a support group with other parents who have gone through or are still going through something similar can provide comfort and compassion for you. Feel free to reach out for more emotional support from friends and family.

4. Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery

Others may require or benefit from Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery as part of their recovery. These surgeries may in turn offer injury victims a renewed sense of purpose and tools to restore both the form, function as well as confidence required with providing overall quality of life improvements.

Have a detailed conversation with the expert surgeon to learn your alternatives as well as possible results. The key to making an informed decision that complements your recovery goals is weighing the pros and cons.

5. Return to Normalcy Gradually

It would be a gradual journey back to your routine and physical activities. If you try to push yourself too hard, it can do the opposite and set you back even longer in your recovery. Ease into light activities and gradually advance the volume of work as your strength and stamina increase.

In conclusion, resilience in the aftermath of any accident is a complex path and one that demands healing on every level, physical as well as emotional. The following is a tried and tested strategy for dealing with both physical recovery — sought after by tips of compensation, aesthetic work, or reconstructive surgery considered one most devastating burns survivors ever want to undertake would always involve this kind of operation at some stage post-burns injury. The key to success after a hernia repair operation is patience and persistence, as each step you make brings you nearer the complete healing.

Friends, what steps do you take to overcome injuries at home? Please leave your thoughts in the comments below.

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The Educational Value Of Board Games

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Board games have been a source of entertainment for centuries, engaging players of all ages in various challenges. Beyond their entertainment value, board games also offer significant educational benefits. They foster cognitive development, enhance critical thinking, and promote social skills. Among these games, chess stands out as a potent educational tool.

Cognitive Development

Board games are excellent for cognitive development, especially in children. They often require players to memorize rules, recall past moves, and plan future strategies, all of which engage and strengthen the brain. Games like “Memory” and “Scrabble” are designed to boost memory and language skills. Memory games improve a player’s ability to recognize patterns and recall details, while word games expand vocabulary and spelling abilities.

Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving

Many board games are built around the concept of strategy, requiring players to think critically and solve problems. Games such as “Risk” and “Catan” challenge players to think several steps ahead, weighing the potential outcomes of different actions. This kind of strategic thinking is invaluable in real-world situations, where planning and foresight are essential.

Chess, one of the oldest and most revered board games, is a prime example of a game that fosters critical thinking. Each move in chess must be carefully considered, as it affects not only the current state of the game but also future possibilities. Players must anticipate their opponent’s moves and develop a flexible strategy to adapt to the changing board. This level of deep thinking and analysis can significantly enhance cognitive abilities and improve decision-making skills.

Social Skills and Teamwork

Board games are inherently social activities that often require players to interact, communicate, and collaborate. Games like “Pandemic” and “Ticket to Ride” require players to work together toward a common goal, promoting teamwork and cooperation. These interactions help players develop important social skills such as communication, negotiation, and empathy.

Playing board games also teaches players how to handle winning and losing gracefully. The competitive nature of these games often leads to a range of emotions, and players learn to manage these feelings healthily. This emotional regulation is a crucial skill that extends far beyond the gaming table.

Educational Benefits of Chess

Chess, in particular, has been extensively studied for its educational benefits. It is not just a game of kings and queens but also a powerful tool for developing a range of cognitive and social skills. Schools around the world have integrated chess into their curricula, recognizing its potential to enhance student learning.

Improving Concentration and Focus: Chess requires intense concentration and focus. Players must pay attention to every move and anticipate their opponent’s strategies. This sustained focus can translate to better concentration in academic settings, improving students’ ability to stay on task and absorb information.
Enhancing Memory: Chess players must remember a vast array of moves, strategies, and counter-strategies. This constant exercise of memory can lead to improved recall and retention of information, benefiting students in subjects that require memorization, such as history and science.
Developing Critical Thinking: Chess is often referred to as the “game of kings” because it involves strategic thinking, planning, and foresight. Players learn to think multiple steps ahead, evaluate different scenarios, and make decisions based on logic and reasoning. These skills are directly applicable to problem-solving in academic and real-world situations.
Encouraging Patience and Discipline: Chess is a game of patience and discipline. Players must wait for the right moment to execute their strategies and avoid impulsive moves. This patience and discipline can help students approach their studies and other tasks with a more measured and thoughtful mindset.

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Lifelong Learning and Enjoyment

Board games are not just for children; they offer educational benefits for adults as well. Games that involve complex strategies and deep thinking can help keep the adult brain sharp and engaged. Additionally, the social aspect of board games provides a fun and interactive way for adults to connect with others and develop their social skills.

For families, playing board games together can create bonding opportunities and promote a love of learning. Parents can use games as a tool to teach valuable life skills, from basic math and reading to more complex strategic thinking.

There You Go

Board games are more than just a source of entertainment. They are powerful educational tools that can enhance cognitive development, critical thinking, and social skills. Chess, in particular, stands out for its ability to improve concentration, memory, and strategic thinking. Whether played by children or adults, board games offer a unique and enjoyable way to learn and grow, making them an invaluable addition to any educational toolkit.

Friends, what are your favorite games to play? Please leave your thoughts in the comments below.

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Clear Mind, Peaceful Heart Book Review & Giveaway

Many thanks to Harper Collins Christian Publishing for providing a sample of the product for this review. My opinions are 100% my own.

In times of political, social, and environmental uncertainty, words of serenity can help to calm the mind, secure sleep, and rest even the most tired of spirits. Leading many people, including a fair number of women weery from around the world. Always looking for positivity in a troubled world, worlds of encouragement can bring hope to many in need of a clear mind and peaceful heart. As is the message of the new devotional publication, from Christian author Lysa TerKeurst, “Clear Mind, Peaceful Heart.”

Featuring simple-to-understand daily devotional messages of faith and futility, author Lysa TerKeurst shares with readers methods to avoid uncertainty, how to unpack personal frailty and feelings of fear, as well as devotions to help readers fall safely asleep with a clear mind and a peaceful heart in her latest work from Thomas Nelson Publishing, “Clear Mind, Peaceful Heart.”

Guided meditations showcasing God’s juxtapositioning, simultaneously holding the meaning of life, alongside details of your journeys, in his faithful hands is what New York Times best-selling author Lysa TerKeurst, and her friends at Proverbs 31 Ministries, share in these fifty encouraging devotions and guided prayers written by women, for women, like you. Remebering that the Lord not only has the whole world in His hands; He’s holding the details of your life in His faithful hands, too. Learn more at www.ClearMindPeacefulHeart.com.

Helping to release the pressures of everyday life and the hard situations we all endure. Helping readers to wake up daily, refreshed and prepared for the challenges ahead of them each day. Days filled with intersection and faith methods to help us all feel hopeful in our days, with nights filled with peaceful, restful sleep. This is the devotion to consider as you start your spiritual life this fall.

Sleep meditation and exerts directly from scripture, including: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28 NIV), aids readers in identifying, “What lies heaviest on your heart as you lay your head on your pillow? Are paralyzing fear and anxiety stealing tomorrow’s peace?” Allowing readers to experience rest, not full of unfilled escapism and uncertainty, but rest for the weariest of souls. Sharing that everything negative in our lives may not be fixed today, we can fix our thoughts on His word.

Readers are also given contextualization from ministry insights perfect for colder days ahead. Learn more about these teachings for your days, and nights ahead at ClearMindPeacefulHeart.com. Helping readers to experience the kind of rest escapism won’t provide. The hope of sound sleep, the sleep we can all claim, with the ease of knowing God is working on our behalves.

Through the pages of “Clear Mind, Peaceful Heart,” Lysa TerKeurst, you will be equipped to quiet riotous, anxious thoughts depriving sound sleep and to find relief from the stress of obligations and social pressures through fifty inspired and relatable devotions and guided prayers written, again, for and by, women, like you.

The publication, “Clean Mind, Peaceful Heart,” in its hardcover, east-to-store binding is now available for $24.99 from Thomas Nelson Publishings. Order your copy of “Clear Mind, Peaceful Heart” today!

Plus, our good friends at Momentum Publishing are giving away a $5.00 Starbucks gift card to one Theladyprefers2save.com reader. To enter, please visit www.ClearMindPeacefulHeart.com. Then, return to this post and share what piece of life-affirming knowledge makes you most excited to read this publication this season at home; prizes will be mailed directly from Momentum Publishers to this site’s winner. Please also note, that entries are verified; entrants winning on multiple platforms will be disqualified. This giveaway will end on August 1, 2024, at 11:59 P.M. CST. Good luck!

Friends, why are you most excited to read, “Clear Mind, Peaceful Heart“, by Lysa TerKeurst, from Thomas Nelson Publications this season? I look forward to reading your thoughts in the comments below.

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Investing in Men’s Shoes: Why Quality Matters

When building a wardrobe that exudes confidence, sophistication, and practicality, the importance of investing in high-quality men’s shoes cannot be overstated. While it might seem tempting to go for the most budget-friendly options, there are compelling reasons why investing in premium footwear is worthwhile.

1. Longevity and Durability

One of the most significant benefits of investing in quality shoes is their durability. High-end shoes are crafted from superior materials, such as full-grain leather or premium suede, which are more resistant to wear and tear than their cheaper counterparts. The construction methods used in quality shoes, such as Goodyear welting or Blake stitching, ensure that the shoe’s sole is securely attached and can be replaced if necessary. This means that while you might pay more upfront, these shoes can last for years, making them a better long-term investment. In addition to considering well-known premium brands, you might explore boutique options like burrowsandhare.co.uk, which offers a curated selection of high-quality men’s shoes that combine craftsmanship with contemporary style.

2. Comfort and Support

Quality shoes are designed with comfort in mind. Premium footwear brands invest in advanced technologies and materials to enhance the comfort of their shoes. Features such as cushioned insoles, ergonomic designs, and moisture-wicking linings contribute to a more comfortable walking experience. Properly constructed shoes provide better arch support and reduce the risk of foot pain or injury, which is particularly important if you spend long hours on your feet. In contrast, cheaper shoes often lack the necessary support and cushioning, leading to discomfort and potential health issues over time.

3. Enhanced Style and Versatility

High-quality shoes often come with a timeless design and superior craftsmanship that can elevate any outfit. Whether it’s a classic pair of Oxfords, sleek loafers, or stylish brogues, investing in well-made shoes means you’re getting a product that looks polished and refined. Quality shoes often have a better fit and finish, with attention to details such as stitching, color, and texture. This level of craftsmanship not only enhances your overall appearance but also adds a touch of sophistication and confidence to your look. Versatile designs ensure that these shoes can be paired with various outfits, from formal business attire to casual weekend wear.

4. Cost-Effectiveness Over Time

While the initial cost of high-quality shoes may seem high, they are often more cost-effective in the long run. Due to their durability and timeless style, you will likely find yourself needing to replace them less frequently compared to cheaper, lower-quality options. In addition, many premium shoes can be refurbished or repaired, which extends their lifespan even further. By investing in a few well-made pairs, you can save money over time and avoid the cycle of buying and discarding inexpensive shoes.

5. Ethical and Sustainable Choices

Many high-end footwear brands are committed to ethical practices and sustainability. Investing in quality shoes often means supporting companies that prioritize fair labor practices, environmental responsibility, and animal welfare. These brands are more likely to use eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes, which can align with your values and contribute to a more sustainable fashion industry.

6. Confidence and Self-Esteem

Wearing well-crafted, stylish shoes can have a significant impact on your self-esteem and confidence. When you know your shoes look good and feel comfortable, you carry yourself with greater assurance. This boost in confidence can positively affect various aspects of your life, from your professional interactions to your social engagements.

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Fun Team Building Activities to Boost Your Next Corporate Event

Team building activities are a great way to boost engagement, morale, and collaboration at your next corporate event. Getting employees out of their usual routine and working together in new ways can lead to improved communication, problem-solving, and productivity when they return to their regular work. Here are some fun options to consider for your next company gathering.

Laser Tag

Laser tag is an exciting, fast-paced team-building activity that will have your group bonding as they work together. Renting a portable laser tag arena and equipment is an easy way to transform any indoor space into an all-out laser battle.

Split your group into teams and let them go head-to-head in an energetic game of laser tag. To win, teams will need to communicate effectively, develop strategies, and use each person’s strengths as they attempt to “tag” opponents and reach the objective. Consider having a friendly wager between teams to up the competitive spirit even more.

The physical nature of running around combined with the need for collaboration and problem-solving make for a stimulating laser tag team event. Look into laser tag rental to learn how it could add some additional fun to your next event.

Escape Rooms

Escape rooms present an immersive puzzle-solving challenge that requires teammates to think creatively and work together seamlessly. Participants are locked in a themed room and must find clues, decode hidden messages, and solve a series of puzzles to escape within the time limit.

Handing your employees a complex mystery to crack in an escape room environment is an engaging path to improved communication, critical thinking, and teamwork. Lean into the theme with decor, music, and costumes to make the experience even more fun.

Escape rooms typically require a strategic team splitting into smaller groups so encourage your employees to work with those they may not usually pair up with for a fresh bonding experience.

Cooking Competitions

A little friendly competition in the kitchen is an entertaining way to build teamwork. Split into small teams and have each group come up with an appetizer, entree, or dessert to prepare on-site. Provide the necessary equipment and a selection of ingredients and give them a set timeframe to create their culinary masterpiece.

A panel of impartial “judges” can rate each dish on taste, presentation, and creativity. Cooking together under these competitive circumstances will bring out everyone’s problem-solving and coping skills.

And at the end, you have a collection of delicious foods everyone can enjoy! To go the extra mile, give the teams aprons and chef hats to embrace the culinary theme.

Challenge Courses

Outdoor challenge courses offer adventurous team-building activities focused on problem-solving, strategy, and collaboration. Activities might include high and low ropes courses, rock climbing, ziplining, trust falls, and more. Participants support and motivate each other to overcome mental and physical obstacles on these exhilarating courses designed to push them outside their comfort zones.

Problem-solving as a team to conquer the course translates directly to displaying the same teamwork when tackling objectives back at the office. Challenge courses also have elements of calculated risk which builds mutual trust between colleagues. Working through the adrenaline-pumping activities leads to increased camaraderie.

Consider following up with a relaxing outdoor barbeque after completing the thrilling course.

Stepping away from routine tasks together to problem-solve, collaborate, and have fun is a recipe for improved office engagement, communication, and productivity.

Friends, how are you planning your next team-building corporate event? Please leave your thoughts in the comments below.

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Unshakable Moxie Movie Review & Giveaway

Thanks to Our Daily Bread Ministries for providing a sample of their product for review. Opinions are 100% my own and are not influenced by compensation.

Today’s world can be cold and uncanny. Leaving many to seek out faithfulness through the lives of others-especially matriarchs of the Bible. Women who understand how your identity in faith can strengthen your relationship within the world. Especially in our modern political climate, now’s the perfect time to invest in what matters most to you in this world with the Unshakable Moxie video series, an episodic video series. Inviting believers to discover what a life of resilient faith is.

Unshakable Moxie: Growing a Resilient Faith, a 6-Session Women’s Bible Study, featuring Video Access, from Our Daily Bread, who for more than eight decades has been committed to nurturing a lifelong relationship for God’s daughters, transformed by a relationship with God‘s son, Jesus. Through daily devotions, podcasts, videos, and series to create a life-changing understanding of the word. With a mission of worldwide Biblical engagement and sound, scriptural teaching to create lifelong, lasting change in the everyday lives of others with God’s Word and the faith journeys of His children.

Hosted by Toni Collier (Broken Crayons Still Color) and Moriah Smallbone (The Chosen), is a video series features Lina AbuJamra, Ruth Chou Simons, Katie Lewis, Dr. Bernice King, and Joni Eareckson Tada. The perfect pairing of worship materials and video series, helping women, like you, and me, to strengthen their own lives of resilient faith.

This study, including a beautiful hardcover Prayer Journal and inspirational cards that share Scripture and powerful quotes from the series, explores biblical lessons around the themes posed in each episode. Hosts Moriah Smallbone and Toni Collier dive deeply into tough, modern, poignant topics including forgiveness, disillusionment, hardships, and the effects of personal growth on their faith during challenging circumstances.

What participants will gain in fellowship with Unshakable Moxie and package:

Insight into how women, like yourself, facing real painful struggles have persisted in their strength.
Encouragement in how God’s diligent actions in your own lives,
A sense of accomplishment in examining your walk of faith.

This 6-part docuseries and accompanying Bible Study invites readers to embark on a study of recognizing the powerful innermost traits of success from ourselves and other notable women of God. Through our greatest weaknesses to our utmost pinnacles of strength. Moments that allow us all to write out our narrative of Unshakable Moxie.

Leaving readers to key in on important inner questions, including what a woman of moxie is, how dynamic can we each be in our narratives, and the personal path of developing our respective spiritual and actualized journies, online and in our own lives.

I particularly enjoyed episode three of the series, dealing with the accompanying book and guided meditation and materials. Helping each of us go into our next season of gratitude with grace, strength, and consumable poise. Watch the series now and see how our creator can turn your biggest fears into opportunities to develop resounding faith. Be sure to watch the full series now, here. You can also order your copy of Unshakable Moxie, here.

Also, enter to win a personal copy Unshakable Moxie Study Pack and a $20.00 Amazon.com Giftcard, including Unshakable Moxie Bible Study, with QR code access to the video series, Unshakable Moxie Prayer Journal, and Unshakable Moxie Scripture & Encouragement Cards Pack.

Please note: All entries will be verified, duplicate entries on multiple sites will be disqualified, “Hope to see this movie”-type answers, only, will be disqualified, and this giveaway is limited to United States winners, only. Winners will be gifted their Unshakable Moxie Study Pack and $20 Amazon Gift Card, prizes directly from Momentum Publishers within a season. All entries will be personally verified, thank you and good luck!

To enter, readers must:

1. Follow Our Daily Bread Ministries and God Hears Her on Facebook, Facebook, Instagram, and Instagram.

2. Repost and Share the giveaway with the hashtag #unshakablemoxie.

3. For a bonus entry, in addition to all of the above-mentioned sign-ups for this giveaway, be sure to subscribe to God Hears Her emails.

Friends, why do you most want to watch Unshakable Moxie? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

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