Friday, November 30, 2012

Ladies Summer Fashion Tips from Ideal World TV Co-Host Steve Tearle

Steve Tearle, the loved co-host of Bonmarche's TV Show on the Ideal World home shopping channel has long been sharing his style tips with his fans.

Here, Steve tells us his views on fashion and how to look fabulous, no matter your budget or the occasion.

Beach and Holiday Clothing

Personally, I love the swim dress. Swim dresses and swim skirts are a brilliant choice for the lady who wants to look fabulous on the beach. The flattering fit of the Bonmarche swimwear range means you'll be able to relax and enjoy your break knowing you're looking stylish and svelte. The Bonmarche swimwear range comes in a range of colours, styles and patterns. My absolute must have is the Bonmarche Spot Print Ladies Swimdress with Bow Detail, a timeless classic transcending all ages.

Supportive swimwear can make every difference; everybody remembers 'that' photo of Helen Mirren in the red bikini. Bonmarche have a fabulous range of bikinis, which can be worn with swim skirts, bikini shorts or bikini bottoms. Wear your bikini with a kaftan to embrace St Tropez style.

Don't forget your skin is just as important as your holiday wardrobe! I love the Bonmarche range of glamorous sun hats, perfect for the occasion w fashion coats hether you're sunbathing in your garden or on a sandy beach somewhere warm and luxurious. My top tip for the lady packing light is the Bonmarche Soft Straw Hat. Not only does it fold up for easy packing, it is also incredibly light.

Ladies Casual wear for the Summer

Ladies, dressing in casual wear doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your glamorous side. I personally love soft fabrics worn with denim, for example Ladies knitwear and denim for autumn winter; then t-shirts and blouses with denim for spring summer. Casual doesn't need to be fussy, the most memorable styles are the most simple. Think of Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's.

I am also a firm believer in the power of monochrome. Whether you're lounging at home, at a wedding or dressing for an important date; black and white will make you look elegant, stylish and unforgettable.

A fabulous take on the monochrome look is a white blouse or t-shirt paired with black skirt or trousers. Plus size trousers at Bonmarche are available with an elasticated waist, so no need to worry about fussy waist detailing and gaping at the back. The elasticated detail means your jeans and trousers will fit perfectly, making you feel confident and carefree.

If you're a lady who loves colour, consider the plus size maxi dress. Maxi dresses are a carefree, feminine clothing choice and are easy to wear and accessorise. Be daring and try a maxi in a colour you secretly love but wouldn't dare to wear usually. Experimentation is the key to a truly fabulous wardrobe.

Plus Size Occasion wear and something a bit special

My favourite fashion moments are occasions where ladies can truly shine. I love dresses that make a statement. Buttons, patterns and a flowing cut can add impact to a style and turn an everyday outfit into something really special and unique. A corsage is a fabulous, budget friendly way to update your favourite dress, plus size jacket or top for any occasion and can be bought to co-ordinate. Pick fresh flowers for maximum effect.

I love Bonmarche dresses for occasion wear. I am a big fan of the longer dress and it can be worn to flatter the figure whether you're heading to a party, wedding or just a special night out. Again, monochrome is a classic choice that can never go wrong. I think all ladies look stunning in a black dress and I love cocktail plus size dress designs too. Remember, you can never be too over-dressed. Everybody remembers a lady who embraces her glamorous side.

I am also a massive fan of the trouser suit. Trousers and jackets can be worn separately and represent fantastic value for money. Pick a jacket in cream for ultimate wow factor. One of my favourite style icons Cilla Black, loves the trouser suit and always looks feminine and fabulous.

Have Fun with Accessories

Accessories really are the decoration on the cake. I love accessories and think that less is never more. If you love a particular necklace, bracelet or handbag don't be frightened to wear it with whatever you fancy. Scarves are a fantastic budget friendly way to add colour and excitement to your favourite outfit.

Remember, fashion is supposed to be fun and exciting, so enjoy it! Embrace your experimental side and try your favourite styles in different colours, patterns and fabrics. If you're wary of colour, try a subtle splash with different colour earrings or shoes. Life is too short not to have fun!

For more style tips and fabulous fashion guidance, head over to bonmarche.co.uk or Ideal World to check when Steve will next be sharing his style advice to home shoppers in the UK and beyond.

About Bonmarche

Bonmarché is the largest retailer catering for women aged 50 years plus in the United Kingdom. We pride ourselves on offering quality clothing with appropriate styling, great value and in a wide range of sizes.

The Bonmarché ladies fashion range includes casual and formal separates, outerwear, dresses, swimwear, lingerie, nightwear and accessories. Exclusive to Bonmarche are collections from couturier - David Emmanuel known for designing fabulous clothes for celebrities and the British Royal Family.

Find Bonmarché online at bonmarche.co.uk where you can shop online for your favourite women's clothing items and have them delivered to your home or collect in store at one of our 268 stores nationwide.

Official PGA.com Shop, Powered by TeamFanShop, Features 2012 PGA Championship and Ryder Cup Merchandise

TeamFanShop, Inc., a leader in e-commerce services for the top names in sports and business division of Fanatics, Inc., has reached a multi-year agreement with PGA.com to power Shop.PGA.com. The official online destination for the PGA of America is PGA.com, managed by Turner Sports. The upgraded shop features a large assortment of more than 500 unique PGA golf products for men, women and kids, which includes merchandise for the 94th PGA Championship, as well as the 2012 Ryder Cup. Fanatics/TeamFanShop operates the PGA Shop's online platform and provides comprehensive e-commerce services that entail merchandising, marketing, customer service and fulfillment.

The Official Online Store of the PGA carries the best selection of golf clothing and gear in all the latest styles from the PGA of America's official licensee and leading name brands like adidas, Nike, Cutter and Buck, Callaway, Titleist, Sunice and more. The store features apparel items such as T-shirts, jackets, hats, and polos with Nike Dri-FIT technology, as well as other event gear like divot tools, golf balls, headcovers, duffel bags, and hat clips. Along with a great variety of product, Fanatics has a customer first mentality with low cost, flat rate shipping, yearlong returns and fast 3-business day delivery.    

"We're pleased to partner with Fanatics to bring golf fans a comprehensive assortment of officially licensed PGA Championship and Ryder Cup merchandise," said Gary Treater, general manager of PGA.com and senior director of business operations, Turner Sports.

The PGA.com Shop is the premier online destination to purchase PGA Championship and Ryder Cup merchandise. The 94th PGA Championship will take place August 9-12 from The Ocean Course in Kiawah Island, S.C., with 18 hours of live content televised on TNT and comprehensive coverage via PGA.com. The 2012 Ryder Cup will be held September 25-30 from the Medinah Country Club in Illinois. Golfers, golfing fans and gift givers can shop hundreds of officially licensed product to prepare for both championships.

"It is an honor to join forces with the PGA of America and Turner Sports to elevate the golfing industry with an online store that gives PGA fans the opportunity to support their passion," said Jamie Davis, President of Fanatics. "Since launching Shop.PGA.com in July 2011, revenue has increased by more than 200% YOY. We look forward to continued momentum as the PGA Championship and Ryder Cup matches approach."

About Fanatics // TeamFanShop
TeamFanShop, Inc., is the business development arm of Fanatics, Inc., a leading provider of e-commerce, merchandising, mar women's jackets keting and fulfillment services for professional sports leagues and teams, collegiate athletic programs and conferences, and other major sports properties. Offering broad assortments online consisting of hundreds of thousands of officially licensed items, Fanatics leverages both its large network of partners and its own collection of proprietary brands, including Fanatics (http://www.fanatics.com) and FansEdge (http://www.fansedge.com), to distribute goods to consumers all over the world. For more information about Fanatics, Inc., please visit http://www.fanaticsinc.com.

About Turner Sports
Turner Sports, a division of Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., is an industry leader in televised and online sports programming, airing championship-level sporting events on TBS, TNT and truTV, and managing some of the most popular sports sites on the Internet. Turner Sports' television lineup includes the NBA, Major League Baseball, the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship, NASCAR and professional golf. The company's digital portfolio includes NASCAR.COM, NCAA.com and March Madness Live, PGATOUR.COM and PGA.com, as well as an accompanying collection of mobile websites and connected device apps. Turner Sports and the NBA also jointly manage NBA Digital, which includes NBA TV, NBA.com, NBA LEAGUE PASS, NBA Mobile, the NBA Game Time App, NBADLEAGUE.com and WNBA.com.

About Kynetic
Kynetic is a private company focused on building consumer Internet businesses that capitalize on the digital transformation of commerce. Kynetic includes three brands at the forefront of innovation in the online commerce space: Fanatics, a leading online retailer of licensed sports merchandise, Rue La La, a leading online private sale destination in the U.S., and ShopRunner, an innovative members-only service which aggregates shopping benefits from top retailers and brands. Founded in 2011 by Internet entrepreneur Michael G. Rubin, Kynetic is based in the Greater Philadelphia area. For more information about Kynetic, please visit http://www.kynetic.com.

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Harriton M320 Men’s Athletic Sport T-Shirt - 15% Discount - No Minimum

Harriton M320 Men's Athletic Sport T-Shirt, regularly priced at $11.98 is now on sale for $10.18 with no minimum from 9/04/12 thru 9/11 at Crooked Brook.

The M320 is made of 100% polyester with 40 UPF on white and 30 UPF on other colors along with moisture wicking properties. This T-shirt is side seamed, with a self-fabric collar, set-in sleeves, double needle stitching on sleeve and bottom hem, and an anti-microbial treatment that prevents odors from perspiration.

Polyester performance T-shirts help improve physical performance by supporting the body's natural temperature regulating mechanism. Unlike cotton T-shirts that trap moisture and become heavy and clingy, polyester performance T-shirts pull perspiration away from skin and transport it to the surface of the shirt, where it evaporates rapidly. They work great in hot weather, but they're also a great choice in cooler temperatures, since they won't become damp and chilly like cotton shirts can.

Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL
Colors: White, Black, Dark Green, Maroon, Navy, Red, Team Orange, True Royal

About T-Shirts
The t-shirt evolved from undergarments used in the 19th century, through cutting the one-piece "union suit" underwear into separate top and bottom garments, with the top long enough to tuck under the waistband of the bottoms. By the Great Depression, the t-shirt was often the default garment to be worn when doing farm or ranch chores, as well as other times when modesty called for a torso covering but conditions called for lightweight fabrics.

T-shirts, with and without buttons, were adopted by miners and stevedores during the late 19th century as a convenient covering for hot environments.

T-shirts, as a slip-on garment without buttons, originally became popular in the United States when they were issued by the U.S. Navy during or following the Spanish American War. These were a crew-necked, short-sleeved, white cotton undershirt to be worn under a uniform. It became common for sailors and Marines in work parties, the early submarines, and tropical climates to remove their uniform "jacket", wearing (and soiling) only the undershirt.

Named the t-shirt due to the shape of the garment's outline, it soon became popular as a bottom layer of clothing for workers in various industries, including agriculture. The t-shirt was easily fitted, easily cleaned, were made in various colors and patterns and inexpensive, and for this reason it became the shirt of choice for young boys.

Basic t-shirts are staples in the promotional products industry and it is important that vendors understand their client's budget and needs right from the start. A vendor's presentation should always include at least three levels of basic T-shirts so customers can see and feel the differences. 50/50 t-shirts are a great value; their low price and durability from the blend of cotton and polyester make them a customer favorite. However, 100% cotton t-shirts offer the softness and comfort many customers want for their promotional pieces. When looking for a substantial and ultra soft t-shirt, 100% ringspun cotton t-shirts are the way to go.

Although the most popular method of printing t-shirts is screen printing, Crooked Brook t-shirts are printed using Direct To Garment Printing (DTG) which is the process of using inkjet printers to print an image directly onto t-shirts without the use of screens like with screen printing, which requires a lot of setup e.g., creating screens for each color. In addition, DTG printing uses eco-friendly, water soluble ink, unlike some screen printing methods that layer Plastisol (a suspension of PVC particles in a plasticizer) on top of the t-shirt. The only requirement for DTG printing is for the image to be high resolution, resulting in photograph quality printing with no setup fee or minimums for custom t-shirts.

About Crooked Brook
Crooked Brook is a unit of the atelier division of an art studio that offers full service apparel design, pattern making, sample making, private-label small lot production, direct-to garment printing and embroidery. Since 1989, they've built a strong reputation of providing top-notch apparel designs, patterns, fit and production samples for many brand name catalogs and retailers, as well as wardrobe and costumes for movies, television and theater.

All Crooked Brook branded garments and accessories are proudly made to order in the U.S.A.

In addition, Crooked Brook offers:

Chef knives, custom and made to order men's and women's chef coats, casino, spa, resort, hotel, chef and restaurant uniforms as well as alumni chef jackets for the Culinary Institute of America. Custom and made to order men's and women's embroidered lab jackets, uniforms and scrubs for nursing, medical, dental, scientific, engineering, technology & healthcare professionals.

Custom and made to order apparel and accessories for men, women and children, including but not limited to: suits, shirts, Hawaiian shirts, pants, vests, dresses, skirts, gowns, jeans, boxer shorts, martial arts and yoga outfits.

Sewing buttons and fabric by the yard: Ripstop, Organic Cotton Twill, Gabardine, Seersucker, Denim and Supima? Gabardine.

Promotional products, items, decorated apparel and accessories, such as; jackets, hats, fleece jac women's coats kets, polo shirts, fleece blankets, sweatshirt blankets, shirts, hoodies, golf shirts, t-shirts, tote bags, sweatshirts and aprons that can be customized with the following apparel decorating methods:

Embroidery
Embroidered Patches
Tackle Twill
Appliqué
Direct to Garment Printing (DTG)
Sublimation

With a design studio in New York City, (the fashion and gastronomic capital of the world) and a production facility in Utica, New York, they've garnered international brand name recognition as the maker of the "World's Highest Quality Chef Jackets?".

Crooked Brook ships worldwide. Hours of operations are 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. EST, seven days a week. Reach them at (315) 733-1992 to learn more.

Alice in Wonderland Costumes are Popular Yet Again this Halloween at Yandy.com

Customers are not only falling but scrambling down the rabbit hole for Yandy.com's collection of Alice in Wonderland costumes this Halloween season. Yandy.co women's coats m, online retailer of sexy Halloween costumes and lingerie, adds even more to the already expansive collection of Alice in Wonderland costumes found on the site this 2012 Halloween.

Yandy's collection of sexy Alice in Wonderland costumes boasts nearly 100 styles in a variety of the popular tale's characters. Yandy offers not only traditional Alice and Queen of Hearts costumes but also White Rabbits, Mad Hatters and Cheshire Cats as well. Often, Yandy will see several women grabbing some friends and going as a group dressed up as all of the characters Yandy has to offer. Although the memorable fairytale is so famous, going solo as one of the characters is also a popular choice for shoppers.

Not only does Yandy offer such a wide selection of Alice in Wonderland costumes, but the prices are on target as well. Shoppers can purchase a reversible Mad Hatter to Cheshire Cat costume, for example, for only $25.95. Not only is it affordable but for a costume that offers the wearer two unique looks, it is a price that can not be beat. For those looking to purchase a more deluxe costume, they can shop Yandy's selection of boutique-style costumes for around $99.95.

In addition to a wide selection of Alice in Wonderland costumes for shoppers to choose from, Yandy also offers free, flat rate shipping on all orders and a free panty with every order.

About Yandy.com
E-commerce is on the rise and Yandy.com is one of the largest online retailers of lingerie, sexy Halloween costumes, swimwear and clothing on the web. Founded in 2003, Yandy boasts more than 6,500 products always in stock at easily affordable prices. Yandy ensures that every customer will receive a safe, secure and private online shopping experience and is backed by COMODO online security and Google Checkout. Yandy is dedicated to customer service and only sells what is in stock which allows for quick, same day shipping. Offering the highest quality products at the most affordable prices in the market, Yandy has become a leader in ecommerce. Yandy works closely with all of the manufacturers they distribute for and hand select all of the items on the Web site to ensure customers have the largest and most diverse collection to choose from. In addition, the customer service team at Yandy is unrivaled. With attentive and helpful operators, should a question or problem arise, the customer service team at Yandy is always willing and able to assist. At Yandy, every customer can Be Sexy.

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New Orleans retailer The Garden Gates hosts a Fall Open House Event on Thursday, November 8th.

The Garden Gates, a home decor, outdoor decor and womens' accessories store in New Orleans, hosts a holiday open house each year to celebrate the beginning of the holiday season. Guests are invited to browse the latest Fall clothing styles, explore an exclusive jewelry trunk show and take a peek at the new Christmas and holiday decor for the season.

Before the rush of the holidays, it's nice to enjoy a private shopping experience with close friends and delicio women's jackets us treats. Access to beautiful jewelry, clothing and holiday decor has never been easier. The Garden Gates will have extended hours that evening until 7 pm to ensure that everyone who wants to stop by can and enjoy the event. From special jewelry items to pre-ordering Christmas decorations, this is the opportunity to check items off the list before the rush of the holiday season.

The Garden Gates carries everything for the holidays this year. From thoughtful gifts to Christmas decor and even jewelry and accessories for fabulous holiday outfits, everything for the holidays is in one place. For more information, please visit http://www.thegardengates.com or call 1-877-780-6699.

About The Garden Gates:
Founded by Jacqueline Elizabeth Kendall-Harris and Chad Harris in 1999. Jacqueline plays an instrumental role in product development, interior design and the developing the core principles of The Garden Gates lifestyle. Chad plays an instrumental role in the creativity of the brand, marketing and technology of the business.

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Wearable Art ‘Green’ Tee’s Ready for Black Friday Blitz

Wearable art by Urban Mosaics is a medium with a message ready to be spread far and wide on Black Friday weekend.

The medium is 100 percent organic cotton T-shirts with abstract designs that carry a message promoting the indefinable beauty of natural Afro-textured hair.

"We consider our shirts 'wearable art,' said Stacy Edey, owner and founder of Urban Mosaics. "This is important because we don't use 'regular' graphic designers. We work with original artists."

Renowned sneaker artist Van Monroe of Cleveland, Ohio, created four of the seven designs currently in Urban Mosaics' inventory. Monroe is an extremely talented artist who has done artwork for President Barack Obama, Jennifer Lopez and Ellen DeGeneres among others.

Urban Mosaics' Black Friday Sale, with a 25 percent discount, runs from 12:01 a.m. Friday (just after midnight Thursday) through midnight on Cyber Monday. That's Nov. 23-26.
To get the discount on orders placed through UrbanMosaics.com, enter coupon code BFCM25, which stands for BlackFridayCyberMonday25%.

Edey said it is not coincidence or happenstance that the company is eco-friendly. The designs are printed on 100 percent organic cotton shirts and are shipped to customers in recyclable mailing tubes.

"The T-shirts are on 100% organic cotton because it's symbolic of accepting hair the way it grows out of our scalp, thus being organic," Edey said. "Not chemically processed to make it straight. Therefore, naturally textured hair is organic."

Edey said, "We really p women's coats online ride ourselves on 'Green and Glam' and supporting efforts of sustainability."

A portion of the proceeds is donated to Stivers School for the Arts, as Edey encourages women of all ages to believe in themselves and believe that they can impact positive change in the world through their passions and views.

About Urban Mosaics:
Founded in March 2011, Urban Mosaics is expressionist, wearable art intended to express meaning or emotional experience rather than the physical reality of Afro-textured hair. Urban Mosaics is high-quality clothing and accessory imagery created from a subjective perspective to evoke moods or ideas regarding natural hair. Our mission is to be a catalyst for change by promoting the beauty of textured hair signified by abstract works of wearable art. Our vision is to help create an awareness of the indefinable beauty of natural hair by instilling a paradigm shift in the conscious mind.

To learn more visit Urban Mosaics at http://urban-mosaics.com

Friday, November 23, 2012

The Top Ten Myths About Learning To Scuba Dive

Everybody has a lifetime of experiences that determine the way that we percieve things. In addition, other people are more than happy to impart their views as well. This means that, quite often, we get a rather skewed view about something before we have ever experienced it. This can serve to keep us out of trouble; however, it may also stop us from doing things we might otherwise want to do. Below is a non-exhaustive discussion around some of the things that might be barriers to people having a go at Scuba Diving. Hopefully, it is a balanced perspective that might serve to correct some misconceptions.

1. Its cold in the water

It is true that the body loses heat in the water much more quickly than in air. However, just as you would not go out in winter without your coat, hat and gloves, there are many exposure protection suits that are used by Scuba Divers. Modern materials that reflect the heat back to your body mean that these can now be lighter weight and less cumbersome than in the past. In very warm tropical waters, a shortie wetsuit (short arms and legs) will provide adequate thermal protection. If the water is cooler, a full length wetsuit can be used. The ultimate protection is offered by a dry suit. This, as the name suggests, keeps you dry and you can wear warm thermal clothing underneath it to keep warm. So, if properly dressed, just like going for a walk in the fall, you can actually keep warm and enjoy the dive.

2. It's too expensive

Like most things, you can spend a fortune if you want to. You can pop down to your local dive shop and pick all of the most expensive kit, then book yourself onto a 'trip of a lifetime' holiday. However, at the other end of the spectrum there are many active student dive clubs whose members get by on a relatively small budget. For everyone, there will be the right place on the scale. Dive clubs often offer low cost training, the trade off is that it can take a long time to complete the training. Dive centres are more costly, but it is what they do, all day, every day. There is usually a bit of one-off expense up front (initial training plus basic kit), it really is then up to you how much you want to spend on the sport.

3. Learning to dive is difficult

When teaching diving, we find that most of the skills that are perceived by students as 'difficult' are just because of preconceived ideas. Teaching children is easy, they don't have a lifetime of preconception, plus they generally don't tell each other that things are hard. The first thing to tell people on a course is to forget everything that anyone has told them about what it's going to be like. Everybody has their own experiences, everybody is different. It is exceptionally rare for anybody not to complete a diving course. Keep an open mind and be positive.

4. The training takes a long time

This myth stems from many years ago when recreational diver training was based on military training. Now the two, very different, activities have moved apart and the modern recreational diver training agencies have worked hard to make sure that the right amount of knowledge is delivered to students at the right time. Learning is prescriptive, and skills are learned by doing and practicing them. The ideology now is very much to get divers into the water more quickly, in a safe and controlled manner, such that they can build experience and learn. Most of the introductory diving courses from the major training agencies can be completed in about 4 days. Will you know everything there is to know after 4 days? No! Will you know enough to start to enjoy the amazing underwater world in a safe manner? Yes!

5. I am not fit enough

Do you need to be a fitness fanatic to be a good Scuba Diver? No. Like anything, it is always easier if you take care of yourself and are in good shape. In the water, we are weightless; the whole point is that it is supposed to be a relaxing way to spend your leisure time exploring the undersea world.

6. I am too old

You can learn to dive form age 10 to well into retirement. But as mentioned above, although you don't need to be a fitness fanatic, you do need to have general good health and energy levels. So if you are 70 and still in good health, you can still learn to dive!

7. There are sharks in the water

In most of the popular dive areas the local guides have more of an idea where to spot them (or not spot them if that's what you want!) but like anything else in the water, there is no guarantee of seeing them. There are of course, areas in the world where they are known to be more common, (like South Africa for example) where hundreds of divers flock to have a special close encounter with these amazing creatures. Unfortunately, films like 'Jaws' have given people the misconceived notion that sharks are highly aggressive and 'eat people' on a regular basis. This, of course, is not true; in most cases of shark encounters, the shark is swimming away from you! They are afraid of us and will only act in defence.

8. I am not a great swimmer

You do not need to be a great swimmer to scuba dive. For your own safety, as the sport takes place in and around water, it is important that you can swim and are reasonably comfortable in the water. However, you do not need to be an Olympic swimmer to enjoy scuba diving. The equipment that we use for scuba diving helps us effortlessly glide through the water.

9. I am claustrophobic

Don't panic, like many things you just need a bit of time to get used to the equipment. Once in open water most people find that far from being claustrophobic, the experience is liberating and free.

10. The theory is too hard

Learning to dive is a mixture of practical and theoretical exercises usually conducted in small groups with an in women's jackets structor. In most of the entry level courses, you will be able to learn in a number of different ways, for example, if you know that you understand things better visually, you can watch a DVD or CD ROM and can even complete all of the theory online. If you prefer to read the information there are manuals and if you learn more easily by writing things down, there are questions and quizzes for you to complete. Information is provided progressively, the basics first then this is gradually built upon. The emphasis of any dive course theory is, as you might expect, safety. Your instructor will be on hand to help you with anything that you don't understand.

The content of this article is the writer's opinions and should not be relied upon. Always make sure that you seek professional instruction before engaging in scuba diving activities.

Thursday, November 22, 2012

Passing Public Inspections: Work Through Water Damage Restoration

In today's real estate climate, it's important for you-and your home-to put its best foot forward. More than the regular clean up and a fresh coat of paint, it's important to check the levels of water damage to your home, before the inspector comes and does it for you.

Fortunately, water damage restoration is easy once you know which items to fix, but only if you know where to look and what to look for. One of the first things to watch out for? Water.

It may seem like an obvious answer, but most people often overlook the places where water is commonly found, such as bathrooms, pool sides, and even the kitchen. They think that since these locations are built to have contact with water, that they would be protected from water damage. While it may be true that these places are more insulated, they may still require some water damage restoration. And more often than not, people do not check on them until the damage has already been done.

Bathrooms are a common culprit. People tend to overlook bathrooms, because they think it's virtually waterproof. But unless you have a fully tiled wet room, there are spots in your bathroom that may need some water damage restoration, mainly anything that's exposed and made of wood. Ceilings are usually the first ones to go. The humidity in bathrooms often leads to the buildup of mildew, which can turn into mold. You can reduce the amount of mildew growth just by opening the bathroom window, but it's also a good idea pull a chair and give it a scrub every two weeks. Because when mildew turns into mold, not only is it harder to clean, but it destroys the wood and turns into a health hazard.

The same can be said about those little nooks and crannies that we can't see: unprotected side moldings, wooden cabinets, and even wooden window frames. Wood expands and contracts with moisture, and there's plenty of that in the bathroom. The results are often tiny little cracks, which can be a haven for mildew, or worse: hold in water from the kids' last bathtub wars adventure. The same goes for tiny cracks in the tile. It's little cracks like these that are often overlooked in water restoration projects, and may either mount up to costly replacements, or become huge discounts, for when the house goes up for market.

The solution is spackle and cocking. It may seem simple, but just sealing these little cracks is the key in water damage restoration. The same goes for pool areas that have gotten water logged decks or cracked concrete. It may look as if they've dried up on the surface, but these cracks collect more water each and every time you get out of the pool, compromising their integrity. Sealing the cracked concrete with grout is a good solution, as well as replacing damaged planks. Remember that wood is absorbent, so when one plank stays soggy, the ones next to it will more likely be soggy too. And the damage is usually done on the inside, so by the time it becomes obvious, it's usually too late.

Likewise, leaky roofs and rotted shingles are routinely included in water damage restoration projects, but most neglect to check the carpets underneath their floors. Little spills often seep through the carpeting and into the hardwood floors underneath, creating not just damage, but mold buildup. So make sure to check your floors when you have major spills, especially when it's on the second floor.

Kitchens are also one place you may need constant water damage restoration, particularly behind the refrigerators and kitchen sinks. Occasionally, when the refrigerator loses power or defrosts, water seeps behind the refrigerator, a place where most of us are not likely to look. Thus, any exposed wood is prone to damage and will more likely hold mold, a dangerous situation since it is very close to where we store our food. The same goes to cabinets underneath the kitchen sink. Moisture from the sink makes those cramped places humid, as well as tiny leaks that we may not be aware of. Besides the usual repairs, it is important to not only routinely clean these places, but to constantly check if these appliances need repairs. Leaking pipes are a common problem, wherever in the house they may be, so it's a good idea to check for the amount of moisture not only on the pipe, but in the surrounding areas.

Likewise, making sure that your refrigerator is running smoothly not only prevents it from leaking, but will save electricity. Make sure that you defrost your fridg fashion coats e once in a while, and clean up any water leakage as soon as possible. If possible, clean under and behind your fridge. Not only will this prevent water damage, but it will make your kitchen more sanitary.

So remember to check on the places in your house where contact which is going to constantly have contact with water, and don't assume that these places are water proof. Even when you're not in the market to sell your house quite yet, it is this routine water damage restoration that not only increases the value of your house, but keeps your home safe and water damage free!

Four Wonderful Hair Effects From Essential Oils, Butters And Plant Extracts

Some natural oils, butters as well as plant extracts that contain awesome hair effects are the following: oil or butter coming from seeds and nuts, coconut essential oil, rosemary oil and also horsetail, and sulfur.

Among the best treatments for hair come from natural products. You only need to know which of the all natural products that yield oil, butter, or even extracts are highly beneficial for your hair.

Oil or butter coming from seeds and nuts

Aside from the benefits of organic Argan oil for hair, you will also find sweet almond, macadamia, ojon, kukui and jojoba natural oils and butters that give frizz control, as well as revive dry hair. Butter is the term utilized for an oil that is in a semi solid type at room temperature. Whatever kind they're in, whether butter or perhaps oil, both give hair with moisture and that smooth feeling on the fingertips when touched. Certain oils, particularly Argan, kukui, and jojoba, never weigh down the locks or keep behind an oily deposits when put on in small quantities. Just some drops of these kinds of natural oils can be mixed with your ordinary hair shampoo or applied to your hair after hair styling to soft any flyaway hair strands.

Coconut essential oil

In the past, coconut essential oil was used by girls in the Pacific islands to give a great gloss to their hair. They obtained this shine by brushing the oil through their own hair. Soon thereafter females from the west followed suit and rightly so. Coconut oil features medium chain fatty acids that are unique. The structure of their compounds is so small that it sufficient to gain access to every hair cell membrane layer. Unlike other hair conditioners that only coat the hair strand, coconut essential oil nourishes each strand outside as well as inside. In addition, deterioration from the creation of free radicals takes place with these common hair conditioners since they have refined vegetable essential oil as their major active ingredient. As opposed to that, virgin coconut oil, particularly the natural kind, works as a good antioxidant and is very useful to your hair, guarding it from environmental and thermal destruction. Place around one or women's coats two teaspoonfuls of coconut essential oil into your palms, apply it to your damp hair, then massage it thoroughly into your scalp. Leave it in your hair for about an hour or two before shampooing it out and styling your hair in the typical method. You can utilize this deep conditioning treatment once every week; nonetheless, be sure to cover your shirt or change into older clothing as the oil can stain fabrics.

Rosemary and horsetail

The herb rosemary is typically utilized in hair treatments. It is because rosemary can help promote hair regrowth, and also boost hair's flexibility. If prepared as a tea, rosemarey produces an excellent rinse. Horsetail is also excellent for hair since it has one of the hair's needed nutrients, silica. This particular mineral provides health, strength, and length to hair strands, as the mineral works from inside. Taking supplements of this mineral is extremely advisable, like drinking horsetail teas, because the amount within the body reduces as a person gets older.

Sulfur

Sulfur is yet another mineral that has an essential role in beautiful tresses. Our hair is made up of keratin, that requires the sulfur mineral for its formation. These minerals are usually found in most plant products, but because of the current method of raising fruits and vegetables, sulfur is no longer found in sufficient quantities. So, we need to have a daily supplement of this mineral to have the correct amount which our bodies need.

To get almost all of the nutrients that our bodies need for stunning hair, we need to reduce the processed foods we consume, and rather consume only natural as well as fresh food items. It is also imperative to consume a variety of foods in order to take in as many of the different nutrients as possible.

Latest Changes Soon to Apply to Air Travel Insurance

Quite a great movement is going around in the air travel insurance branch lately. The plan to limit the liability of airlines in personal damage suits for crashes overseas, liability coverage for lost or stolen baggage in domestic air travel that is about to be broadened and the so called cancellation insurance for passengers who have sizeable amounts on deposit for charter flights that are having some fine print catches that have voided recent claims, are among the things that concern travelers and should therefore be known to them. To begin, let's check out the initiative to regulate big damage claims after a crash abroad.

Currently governing overseas flights of travelers is the Warsaw Agreement which was drafted several years ago and states that a technical limit of $75,000 is placed on damage claims. But, attorneys who specialize in airline accident cases say many settlements have far exceeded the $75,000 maximum. In a current case, the beneficiaries of a 30 year old man received $875,000 in an issue settled out of court.

But, there's a move to change all this. The airlines and the US government, under the guise of increasing the Warsaw Agreement limit of $75,000 to $117,000 and beyond, would put an absolute limit of $317,000 that could be collected in damages.

Everyone supports the proposition for the technical limit of $75,000 to be moved up to $117,000. The United States, however, intends to have supplemental coverage to append an additional $200,000 aside from the $117,000.

If this goes through, it would make it impossible to get any settlement for more than $317,000. A two dollar additional expense for each passenger is placed on the ticket for the charter. Even as it waits approval, the initiative has been stopped.

Since there is no limit to damage claims, domestic flights do not consider this as a problem. The evidence to prove the amount of money loss is never waived, however, both for domestic and overseas crashes. For illustration, if a father and a husband dies, his supposed wages and his future help as a parent will be expressed in monetary form.

Without dependents, the beneficiaries of an older person has lesser amount to collect compared to the family of a younger person with hi women's coats gher income and a number of dependents. A seasoned lawyer has provided do's and don'ts for families of plane crash victims.

Do not haste in signing whatever the airline offers, regardless of how appealing it is, until your lawyer has thoroughly reviewed it. Get the services of a reputable lawyer, especially one who have mastered airline crash cases. The airline accountability coverage for the baggage on domestic flights have been higher at $750 dollars from $500 per bag previously.
Just for adding 10 cents for every $100 added value, you can increase your insurance. There is still a limit of $9.07 per pound is placed on overseas flights for the liability coverage called excess valuation but you can always purchase additional coverage.

On domestic or overseas flights, you still have to prove the value of your loss. This is the reason why you need to back up any valuable item, like an expensive coat, with either a sales receipt, a credit record or a canceled check. On charter flights where you have to pay in advance, be sure to read the fine print on any cancellation insurance you contemplate buying.

What this insurance really want to protect is your deposit in case you have to back off secondary to illness. You will, however, lose all bets once your illness or death will be proven to be pre existing.

Monday, November 19, 2012

Alaska Cruise Or Florida Vacation Too Expensive?

How often have you heard something like this? ?€?Sure, we would love to travel, but we don?€?t have the time or the money to travel now. We?€?ll do that later, when the kids are raised or when Dad retires.?€?Suddenly the kids have flown the nest and we look back with some misgivings. Should we have taken more time with the kids and done something really special as a family? Did we miss out on something genuinely valuable? Will we be able now to personally enjoy travel?

Here are some common reasons why many of us miss the value and joys of travel.

1. We sometimes postpone our own recreational travel because we feel we just can?€?t afford it. Often income doesn?€?t stretch to cover the expenses. It?€?s probably not a great idea usually to go into debt for a vacation; however, some would argue that point. It?€?s certainly not wise to dig a pit of debt so deep that we are buried alive, but some families borrow from their savings now and again to fund unforgettable family experiences.

2. The job requires much of our time. When we do get a few days or a week off for vacation, the yard and the home demand attention. The kids are playing T-ball and soccer and basketball and play in the band and?€? The results? We often wear out several minivans and SUV?€?s running hurry scurry from town to city and state to state, and we fail to invest our lives in travel -- travel simply for the sake of enjoyment. We may be losing out on more than fun. Being busy is not always the best investment of our time.

3. Travel and vacation are not always easy. Worthwhile vacations require planning and effort. Sometimes a distant, exotic destination is not the best choice either. Half the battle is in our creativity and attitude! ?€?Travel?€?does not always mean a trek across the nation or a transatlantic cruise. Travel is to decide on a destination, be it a neighboring county fair or a national shrine, and to enjoy both the journey and the destination. The travel experience may be practically in our own back yard.

4. In the final analysis we have to ask, ?€?Is a travel vacation worth the cost and the effort now, this year? More often than not, the carefully chosen vacation probably will be fun, increase our appreciation for the world we live in, increase family unity, and engrave memories that truly last a lifetime. Travel enriches our lives with meaning, and who can place monetary value on that? Travel snatches us out of our tiny corner in this wonderful world and hurls us into the human family, and there it can perform its magic.

?€?That all sounds great!?€?you say. ?€?But reality is reality. The bills tear holes in our bank account. The home begs a new coat of paint. We have to shell out $100 for our kids?€? neighborhood party next week. And besides, it is expensive to travel! It costs a small fortune these days to fly to Florida and stay in a nice motel.?€?

That is reality. Those are real demands that we encounter in the real world. However, others who do travel may have some answers. Some of those world travelers have learned travel tricks and can share some tips that will empower you to see over your backyard fence. If you dream of swimming in a blue lagoon in the company of c women's jackets online urious dolphins or of standing on top of a 14,000 foot peak in the Rocky Mountains savoring the spectacle of hundreds of peaks and the cleanest air you?€?ve ever inhaled, then let?€?s join hands, and give substance to your dreams, and vitalize your lives and your closest relationships with travel. Check out the articles at http://www.cedarviewtravelresources.com for further information.

Latest Changes Soon to Apply to Air Travel Insurance

Quite a great movement is going around in the air travel insurance branch lately. The plan to limit the liability of airlines in personal damage suits for crashes overseas, liability coverage for lost or stolen baggage in domestic air travel that is about to be broadened and the so called cancellation insurance for passengers who have sizeable amounts on deposit for charter flights that are having some fine print catches that have voided recent claims, are among the things that concern travelers and should therefore be known to them. To begin, let's check out the initiative to regulate big damage claims after a crash abroad.

Currently governing overseas flights of travelers is the Warsaw Agreement which was drafted several years ago and states that a technical limit of $75,000 is placed on damage claims. But, attorneys who specialize in airline accident cases say many settlements have far exceeded the $75,000 maximum. In a current case, the beneficiaries of a 30 year old man received $875,000 in an issue settled out of court.

But, there's a move to change all this. The airlines and the US government, under the guise of increasing the Warsaw Agreement limit of $75,000 to $117,000 and beyond, would put an absolute limit of $317,000 that could be collected in damages.

Everyone supports the proposition for the technical limit of $75,000 to be moved up to $117,000. The United States, however, intends to have supplemental coverage to append an additional $200,000 aside from the $117,000.

If this goes through, it would make it impossible to get any settlement for more than $317,000. A two dollar additional expense for each passenger is placed on the ticket for the charter. Even as it waits approval, the initiative has been stopped.

Since there is no limit to damage claims, domestic flights do not consider this as a problem. The evidence to prove the amount of money loss is never waived, however, both for domestic and overseas crashes. For illustration, if a father and a husband dies, his supposed wages and his future help as a parent will be expressed in monetary form.

Without dependents, the beneficiaries of an older person has lesser amount to collect compared to the family of a younger person with hi women's coats gher income and a number of dependents. A seasoned lawyer has provided do's and don'ts for families of plane crash victims.

Do not haste in signing whatever the airline offers, regardless of how appealing it is, until your lawyer has thoroughly reviewed it. Get the services of a reputable lawyer, especially one who have mastered airline crash cases. The airline accountability coverage for the baggage on domestic flights have been higher at $750 dollars from $500 per bag previously.
Just for adding 10 cents for every $100 added value, you can increase your insurance. There is still a limit of $9.07 per pound is placed on overseas flights for the liability coverage called excess valuation but you can always purchase additional coverage.

On domestic or overseas flights, you still have to prove the value of your loss. This is the reason why you need to back up any valuable item, like an expensive coat, with either a sales receipt, a credit record or a canceled check. On charter flights where you have to pay in advance, be sure to read the fine print on any cancellation insurance you contemplate buying.

What this insurance really want to protect is your deposit in case you have to back off secondary to illness. You will, however, lose all bets once your illness or death will be proven to be pre existing.

The 8 AKC Dog Breed Groups Explained

Do you want a new dog? Have you really thought about it? Why are you thinking about adding a new dog companion to your family in the first place? Do you have any idea what you're looking for in a new dog companion? What are you real needs in a dog? And your wants? There are many things to consider first before bringing home that new bundle of joy.

It is very important, first, to match your new dogs overall personality, exercise requirements and needs to you and your family as closely as possible. With luck you're choosing an animal that is likely to be with you for 10 years or longer so put forth a little research time in the beginning and you'll be rewarded for your efforts for years to come.

Were you aware that the common dog comes in more than 400 different breed types world wide? There is much more variation among our friend the family dog than in any other species of mammal known today. The selection of available dog types to choose from is truly amazing. They come in more sizes, shapes, colors, coat types, abilities and personalities than you could shake a bone at.

Your job, should you choose to accept it, is to find the right dog breed to fit your personality as well as your current lifestyle. Dogs, just like people, have many different jobs and most were bred for very specific activities. This is probably one of the most important things you need to know before you get the wrong dog for you. Example: If you are a couch potato you don't want to bring home a dog breed with extreme energy - and a need to express that - or if you are a triathlete, you don't want to bring home a new exercise partner with tremendously low exercise requirements.

Here I will list each of the major AKC dog groups, briefly describe their overall purpose and what the dogs were originally bred to do, list many of the jobs dogs in each particular group currently perform, as well listing as a few members of each group.

- The Herding Group

Bred for stamina, these super intelligent herding dog breeds work with their owners all day long out in the fields moving livestock. Overall, these energetic, intelligent herding dog breeds make excellent pets and work extremely well with different kinds of training such as agility, flyball, Schutzhund, search and rescue and obedience. Keep in mind, since these dogs were bred to do a particular job (herding), they do better when they have lots of exercise.

A few members of the AKC herding group are the German Shepherd, Australian Shepherd, Border Collie and Bouvier des Flandres.

- The Working Group

The dogs of the working group were bred to help man in many various jobs - from pulling sleds, guarding a home or tracking, to pulling carts, water rescues, and more. These particular dog breeds have been bred for several generations for very definite purposes and they need jobs to fill their days. They have very active minds, and are very trainable and willing to work - it is also true that these working dog breeds also require a lot of training.

Overall, the larger size, power and strength of many of the members of this group may make them unsuitable for most families, however they thrive with the right companions. Remember, since most were bred to work, they do best with lots of exercise and a specific task to do.

A few members of the AKC working group are the Boxer, Alaskan Malamute, Great Dane, Saint Bernard, and Rottweiler.

- The Hound Group

The members of the AKC hound group were bred to help man while hunting. Divided into 2 separate groups, the hounds track their prey using their wonderful senses of sight (called sight hounds) or smell (called scent hounds). The hound dog group has some of the oldest dog breeds known to man today.

Many of these dogs are quite vocal based on their hunting background so it would be a good idea to hear their vocalizations before you decide to get a hound of your own. Also, it is also a good idea to keep these dogs on a leash at all times since they can easily be led by their nose, or eyes, into situations that may get them into trouble.

A few members of the AKC hound group are the Basset Hound, Beagle, Bloodhound, Greyhound and Rhodesian Ridgeback.

- The Terrier Group

The feisty and energetic terrier group dog breed members were bred to hunt vermin both above and below ground and are often described as the "pest controllers" of the dog world. Typically these tenacious little dogs have little to no tolerance for any small fast moving animals, the postman, other dogs, etc. They are well known for their tenacious, feisty and independent nature.

Terriers can make great pets in the right home but need a determined owner who matches their dogs' spirited personality.

A few members of the AKC terrier group are the Airedale Terrier, Bull Terrier, Miniature Schnauzer, Scottish Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier.

- The Toy Group

The toy group dog breeds were developed simply to be our companions. Their main job is to make their owners happy. The only things the members of this dog group have in common really i fashion jackets s their petite size. The toy dogs are also called "lap dogs" sometimes because this is where many of these toy breeds prefer to stay, in their masters lap.

It is very true that the name "toy" is very misleading. Many of the toy dogs are as tough as nails. Toy dogs are especially popular with people that live in apartments or people without a lot of living space.

A few members of the AKC toy group are the Pomeranian, Chihuahua, Pug, Yorkshire Terrier and the Havanese.

- Non-sporting Group

The different purebred dog breeds in the non-sporting group are a wide collection of dogs in all different types of shapes, sizes, coat types, jobs types, personalities and overall appearances. Many people call this the AKC "catch-all" dog group. The diverse membership of the non-sporting group contains a little bit of everything - big dogs, little dogs, hairy dogs, bald dog breeds and some of the finest companion dogs you might possibly ever own.

A few members of the AKC non-sporting group are the Bulldog, Lhasa Apso, Dalmatian, Boston Terrier, French Bulldog, and Keeshond.

- The Sporting Group

Well known for their incredible instincts in both the water and woods, many of the members of this AKC sporting dog group continue to actively participate in hunting and other field trials today, actively retrieving and hunting feathered or furred game for their masters. The sporting dog breeds are well known also for their easy going temperaments.

Included in this group you'll find the pointers, retrievers, setters and spaniels. Keep in mind that the sporting dogs do need regular exercise, frequently.

A few members of the AKC sporting group are the Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Irish Setter, Pointer and the Cocker Spaniel.

- Miscellaneous Dog Group

The many different dog breeds included in the AKC Miscellaneous Group are awaiting final breed recognition by the AKC. All dog breeds that are in this group can compete and earn titles in AKC Obedience, Tracking and Agility events.

Many of these dog breeds are ones that you may not see everyday but can make great pets in the right homes. Research each of these breeds one by one since they have different working backgrounds such as hunting, herding or guarding.

As of the writing of this article, the current members of the AKC Miscellaneous Group are the Pyrenean Shepherd, Beauceron, Redbone Coonhound, Dogue de Bordeaux, Norwegian Buhund and the Swedish Vallhund.

If you're like most people you probably have many unanswered questions about dogs in general. Hopefully armed with the information above you will have a better idea of what various dog breeds were originally bred to do and will better understand whether or not they will fit your needs. Finding the right dog breed for you is truly a very important process. The best way to do that is when armed with the knowledge to make a decision based totally on fact, not fiction or hear say.

A Basic Guide To Beginner Investing

Many people delay planning their financial future as they do not believe they are in a stable enough position to do so. They may believe they don't have the funds available to start an investing program. Bu women's coats t the nice thing about beginner investing is it can be started on any budget. Investing covers many areas such as stocks, commodities, real estate, finance, bonds, mutual funds, currency, mortgages, etc.

The choices available are huge and will depend on your individual needs but this is probably the best way that any individual can plan to look after their family in future years. Here is some useful basic information if you are looking to do this.

If you are considering the stock market then you will need to plan on studying the companies you wish to invest in otherwise you might as well throw your money away. This is traditionally the number one place to invest. Careful research into individual companies is required before stock and mutual funds are purchased as investments. There are many areas where a novice investor can stumble; let's face it even the rofessionals get it wrong here sometimes.

The quickest way to get started is by doing it online and it is also the fastest growing sector of investment as it can be carried out by just about anyone providing they have a computer and an internet connection. Using your computer you can research the companies that are offering shares and have a good idea of their performance before you make a decision to invest in them.

It is not uncommon for people to become addicted to this in the same way a gambler does so you must stick to your limits and not go beyond them. So whether you are looking for short term gains or long term then the stock market or currency trading is the way to do this but it is also where you can end up with egg on your face from time to time!

Real estate investing is safer than the stock market and in the long term can bring great gains. Many people buy homes that need upgrading and there are ways to buy these homes at below market prices. Buying a run down property can be considered a fun project and potentially make a handsome profit when it is resold.

But it should be remembered that to sell a house for a profit requires a bit more than just a coat of paint. Before considering this option carry out some research because there is more involved than just putting some "lipstick on the pig".

Investing requires knowledge gained from research and training so if you are impatient this might not be the way for you to make money. It doesn't matter what sector you aim to invest in, research pays, after all how do you think wealthy investors got that way! There are many websites that can give you beginner investing advice and also forums with people that can tell you about their experiences first hand.

Enjoy the investing you do but remember it has a serious side that doesn't take prisoners; this is why it is so important to learn the rules of the game before you play. Whether it is with stocks, mutual funds, real estate, or online, do your research and make some money!

Friday, November 16, 2012

Refuge In Your Bedroom

There is perhaps no other room in any home that is as important or as used as the bedroom. The bedroom is our own personal refuge when we have had a hard day. A bedroom gives us the perfect opportunity to lie back, relax and read our favorite novel or newspaper. Maybe that is the reason we often spend so much time deciding on what we put into this one room.

Our interest with bedrooms is evident right from the start. When we go looking for a flat or a home of our own, one of the first things we ask is how many bedrooms are available within the property. Usually, the more bedrooms, the more you will spend on rent or on a mortgage. Of course, we also show concern with the size of those bedrooms. The larger a bedroom, the more personal space we will end up with.

Once we have that bedroom of our very own, then we go looking for some bedroom furniture. Finding bedroom furniture can be fun, but we always want something in our personal refuge that is comfortable and is a direct display of our personality and tastes. Of courese there are beds, dressers, armoires, and various other pieces of furniture specifically designed for the bedroom.

Speaking of fu women's coats rniture, let's talk materials. There are a great many materials that can be used and often found in a bedroom. You may find that there is wood, metal, plastic or even paper. Each type of material has its own benefits. Sometimes, all of the furniture will match, but other times, a bedroom is a mix-matched collage of favored pieces gathered over time. Choosing bedroom furniture really comes down to picking the option best suited to your individual taste and needs.

Bedroom decor is another aspect of our bedroom where you can add that personal touch. Do you have flowers decorating your room? Do you have sports cars decorating your room? Maybe you even have fairies and princesses. No matter what the decor, you can tell a lot about the occupants of a bedroom simply by checking out the bedroom wall paper or other decorations. More often than not, the first thing you can tell by the decor is the age of the occupants and the second thing that is usually obvious, is the gender of the person.

The amount of money you spend on your bedroom is evident in many ways via the furniture and decorations of that bedroom. Having a mixed collection of expensive and inexpensive furniture and decorations is a great way to have a cost effective bedroom that can look great, without the added expense. For the more affluent, there are actually bedroom designers that can help make your bedroom the resting place that is best suited to you.

Bedroom furniture is often so cherished you may even find and decide to buy antique bedroom decorations and or furniture. Why? Because antique bedroom furniture is often sturdy and built to last. You will find that there are many options when you start looking for a way to decorate your bedroom to suit your taste.

One tip when planning and decorting your first bedroom is to stick to just painted walls. This will allow to change the appearance simply by adding a new coat of paint. Add in some pictures of your choice and you will soon be well on your way to creating your very own place of refuge.

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Irish Setter Dog Breed Description, History, Grooming, Health Issues and Living Conditions

Description: The Irish Setter is an active dog that has been used bird hunting for a long time. The dog height is 26-28 inches, with the bitch being 24-26 inches. The weight of the dog is 65-75 pounds, with the bitch being 55-65 pounds. This breed has a long but lean head. The Irish Setter skull is oval in shape. The muzzle is slightly deep and its teeth should meet in a scissor bite. The nose colour is black or brown; this is dependent on the coat colour. It has almond shaped eyes that are medium to dark brown, these are wide set. This dog has triangular ears that are set low and are thin, hanging close to the body. It has strong legs that are straight with arched toes. The Irish Setter tail nearly reaches the hocks and has feathering to the fur. The body has even longer feathering to the back of the legs, tummy, and brisket that extending to the chest. The colours, we see are rich chestnut to a deep mahogany. A small amount of white is permitted if on the toes, throat or chest.

History: The Irish Setter has come from a mix with Irish Terrier, English Setter, Pointer, Irish Water Spaniel and the Gordon Setter. This breed was, at first, a mixture of red and white colours and they were shorter. This breed was referenced in the Latin book Caius's De Canibus Britannicus in 1570. This made the reference to the breed as being a dog for bird fowling. This was not the dog we see today, but it was the dog of the gene pool for this breed. By the 18th century, this dog had come into its own. The standards for this breed came around in 1886. This breed is renowned for being a tireless, wide ranging hunter and is suited to wet and dry lands. This breed has an extraordinary ability to sense the location of birds. They will hold a pointing position, indicating the direction for the hunter. The Irish Setter dog suffered from over breeding in the 1960s and 70s, which combined with ignorance on how to look after this dog gave the Irish setter a reputation for being over excitable and very stupid, in fact the Irish setter is highly intelligent. It is easily trained and is a good all-round hunting dog.

Temperament: Here we have an intelligent, energetic, dog that loves affection and is full of energy. This breed of dog has no guardian instincts but will get along well with all other pets and children. Coming from a working dog background the Irish Setter requires mental and physical exercise daily or may become destructive, impulsive, and independently spirited. Combined with their energy, this is not desired effect. The Irish Setter dog will require a firm but fair, owner that is willing to be leader of the pack. If this breed senses a w women's jackets online eak owner they become exceptionally hard to train. This dog requires plenty of exercise and a firm approach to training, training needs to start when the puppy is young. There are two types within this breed, the field line and the show line. Both types of dog are highly energetic, but it is probably better to think about having a dog from the show line, if you require this breed as a pet, as the show line are slightly less active. The Irish Setter dog is highly reactive to how it is treated and to what type and how much exercise they are given. To gain the best from this breed will require consistent firm, but not harsh training, with plenty of exercise.

Health issues: The Irish Setter has a problem with bloat, and it is wise to feed this dog two to three small meals a day instead of one large one. This dog can have eye problems such as PRA, autoimmune disease, and skin allergies, epilepsy and elbow and head dysplasia. Check often for ear infections and inflammations.

Grooming: An Irish Setter will need daily grooming but this is all that is needed to keep the coat in good condition. This is an average shedder.

Living conditions: This breed is not good for apartment living, except if the owner is an exceptionally active person that takes the dog on long jogs or bike rides. The Irish Setter needs a large garden.

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Fashion Wisdom for Freezing Weather

Whether you're talking about the men's or women's segment, most people will agree that fashion rarely mixes with comfort (or function, for that matter). Most times, you only get one or the other, especially when the weather gets unfriendly as in the middle of winter. All is not lost, though. The range of men's fashion is (thankfully) large enough to give you a full arsenal of style, even when the mercury starts dropping outside.

Be One with the Boot
Glossy magazines and flashy men's fashion shows might show you all manner of leather shoes - usually the wing-tip variety, if you've noticed - for fall and winter collections. But unless there's an ueber-strict dress code in your office or you're headed to a formal event, a pair of boots might be the perfect addition to your winter shoe rack.

There's no question about it: boots give you more protection from both the elements and the feet of clods who might happen to step on you. They also give better traction for the times when your sidewalk freezes up. And though a pair of these babies are usually worn with a customary axe a la woodcutter, there's a way to spin it for the urban man.

Don a pair of work boots with other equally rugged style pieces like jeans and jackets in denim. Forget all of your fussier fashion show items; the work boot is for rugged men, and a rugged man you must be. Regular cut jeans work best, none of that skinny stuff, please, because they can accommodate the girth of the boot. With jeans legs rolled up and a rugged jacket to match, you'll be every bit the winter-ready, fashion-conscious man.

Have a Hat
Fedoras and trilbies might be mainstays of men's fashion labels for spring and fashion coats summer collections, but don't expect them to be of much help during winter. Unless you live in a place with very mild Decembers, you'll want to get something a little more substantial.

Beanies are a quick and extremely inexpensive (as low as $5 a pop in some places) way to keep your head warm in cold weather. For something more mature fashion-wise, though, trappers might be a better idea than the beanies. They may not look any more cutting edge, but they're definitely much more rugged and insulated. Wear with the boot outfit above and you have a ruggedly urban look for even the coldest of cold days.

As with the boots, the key to creating a look with this rather outdoorsy style piece is to match it with other items that 'feel' the same. Ergo, a rugged hat like this one calls for an equally rugged outfit. Think grungy denims, hardy boots and tough guy plaids instead of your usual dark suit and necktie, and you'll most likely have a look that'll go somewhere.

The Best of the Vest
One of the age-old problems with winter fashion was the thickness of the clothes. While there's a definite advantage to going thick, movement - and style, in general - can be an issue when you've got two to three layers of outerwear. On those days when the weather gets really cruel, a vest can strike that delicate balance between thick and stylish.

Versatility is one of the biggest strengths of the vest, as you can just zip it up over any old outfit. Abbreviated versions are good for tee-and-jeans combos in the fall, while slightly longer iterations work even over a coat and necktie ensemble in winter. In terms of use, the right vest in one of the classic colors of men's fashion can be styled very much like your average peacoat or sport coat.

Thick, warm clothes are the only way to go during the cold days of winter, but that never has to mean that you go around looking like you're wearing a dead seal. Wear exactly the right style pieces so that you don't end up adding more bulk than is absolutely necessary. If you look at things the way a fashion-conscious man does, every single layer counts.

Best Hardwood Floor Care Tips And How Not To Damage Your Flooring!

These are some of my best tips if you need to know how to clean your hardwood floors and how to best take care of them and not damage them in the process. These will help you whether you have hardwood floors now or plan to get them soon, either by DIY (doing-it-yourself) or by installing using a hardwood floor contractor.

It doesn't matter what type of hardwood you have - exotic, oak, maple, cherry, Brazilian cherry, etc., to remove surface dirt, vacuuming is the easiest and best way to start. If pollutants are sticking to the surface, such as smoke, you can remove them by rubbing the surface carefully with a slightly wet cloth. You can dampen the cloth with water or use commercial furniture cleaner but make sure to test a corner of the wood with the product you'll be using so that you don't damage it.

Commercial cleaners are generally water-based. They usually contain degreasers besides the cleansers. These are used for hardwood floors and for wood furniture and are usually safe for people but use gloves to protect your hands. And be careful about breathing any fumes that are emitted from the hardwood floor cleaners. Use good ventilation too.

If your cleaner is oil-based it will be flammable. If you choose to use the oil-based cleaner, after you finish, be sure to soak the rags in water and put them outside in a fire-proof container such as metal, away from your house and any wooden structure.

Try not to use any hardwood floor cleaners that contain silicone. The silicone will give a smooth finish but you will not be able to refinish the hardwood floor in the future even if the original coating is stripped off. Also lemon oil cleaners should not be used because they show fingerprints and the shi women's jackets online ne will have a smudged appearance. But worst of all these cleaners usually contain kerosene which will hurt most finishes and exposure to it is not good for your health.

When wood furniture is exposed to ultraviolet rays from sunlight it will become damaged as time goes by and the same is true for hardwood floors. To avoid this you can tint the windows to stop the UV rays from shining on the flooring.

If your floors need waxing just a thin coat of wax is best. If you put on a coat that is too thick it won't dry evenly. This will leave a finish that is spotty.

When you wax your hardwood floors, a hard, waterproof wax is usually recommended. Waterproof wax will prevent the white ring problem. If you've ever placed a water pail or other container on a hardwood floor and it left a white ring, it's because the water or moisture penetrated below the wax and it actually breaks the bond with the hardwood surface. Waterproof wax will prevent this from happening.

You only want to wax hardwood floors once a year or so. Make sure to apply just a little bit of wax because a buildup of wax is messy and difficult to remove. You want to choose a paste wax instead of a liquid wax because it will contain more wax.

With these tips you will know what to do to help preserve your hardwood floors and most importantly what to avoid so you won't damage them. There are still other tips that you can use to help preserve your flooring or help you decide what flooring to get whether you already have hardwood floors or are thinking about putting in hardwood floors yourself or through a hardwood floor contractor.

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Revive Old Garden Containers

With a little bit of paint, a brush, sponge and some patience, you can turn your cheap plastic garden containers into decorator planters that look just like the expensive designer versions. In fact, these pots will look so good, your guests won't be able to tell the difference.

"Just Like Lead" Finish

1. Take a square plastic pot and clean it well with soap and water. Allow to dry and buff.

2. Spray the outside with a white base fusion spray for plastic. Allow to dry before proceeding.

3. Use an outdoor acrylic paint in a wrought iron shade to paint the sides and inner lip of the planter. Dab or stipple the paint on with a round brush to avoid brush strokes. Once dry, apply a second coat.

4. In a separate covered container, mix a glaze using the following outdoor paints: 2 teaspoons blue, 4 teaspoons sandy brown, 1/2 teaspoon concrete gray, and 1-2 drops black. Thin with 6 teaspoons water, cover and shake to mix. Don't worry about being exact with these amounts.

5. Apply the glaze with a well wrung out sponge (still slightly damp). A large chunk of a sea sponge works really well as you dab the glaze to cover one side of the planter.

6. When the first side is covered, take a dry rag and wipe it evenly across the planter. It should have a scuffed metal look to it. Repeat the process for the rest of the sides and inner lip. Take care to blend the edges so there are no defined lines. Give the pot a 2nd coat if you feel it needs it.

7. Spray with 2 or three coats of clear protective spry to waterproof your new metal finish.

"Just Like Copper" Verdigris Finish

1. Start with a terra-cotta planter, preferably with some sort of raised design or crevices. Wipe it down to remove excess dirt, and leave to dry overnight if you clean with water.

2. Paint the entire planter - inside and out - with a Fern Green color of outdoor acrylic paint. Allow to dry and add a second coat to completely cover and get into the little nooks and crannies.

3. Mix the glaze in a container with a tight fitting lid. It should include: 3 teaspoons DecoArt patio Paint in Blue Bahama and 3 teaspoons of water. Cover and shake until mixed. Pour into a larger container or plate that you can sponge.

4. Using a very slightly damp sponge, or a brush, apply glaze to one size of planter.

5. Wipe off excess glaze by dabbing and ru women's coats bbing the with a soft rag. Repeat on all sides.

6. Get a small amount of shiny copper colored paint and apply sparingly to edges or along the raised designs and curves. Wipe off with a clean rag.

7. Spray with a few coats of clear protective finish.

"Just Like Limestone" Finish

1. This is a technique that works great with a concrete pineapple or other similar outdoor decor items. Use a stiff bristle brush and completely clean the item you'll be covering. If you wash it with water, allow to dry overnight.

2. Get a paper plate and without mixing, pour out small helpings of the following out door paints: light yellow, sandy brown, concrete gray, and white.

3. Using a large round brush or clean make-up brush, stipple the paint, taking care to get in the cracks and crevices. Choose different colors as you go, similar to the shaded surface of limestone.

4. Dampen and wring out a sea sponge and blend in the colors by blotting gently. Continue to layer on the paint so that you get more variation, and always blending and blotting to get an smooth look. Finally choose some accents and add them to the final coat.

5. Once dry, spray with several coats of a clear protective finish.

Womens Health Requirements for Life

Women are unique individuals each facing different health issues affected by diet, environment, heredity etc. However they generally fall into three age categories.

Womens Health Age 20-35

Although women in this age group generally have fewer health problems than their older sisters they usually experience higher levels of stress compared to older women. The challenges of balancing children, career, and personal life can be stressful. During this demanding time in a womans life it is essential to make sure that you receive the proper nutrients to meet the energy levels your busy schedule demands. Doing so will keep you healthier now and build a good foundation for a healthy future.

The old adage an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure is certainly true in the area of skin care. Now is a good time to start taking care of your skin to help reduce the appearance of wrinkles down the road. A little sun is healthy, but too much can set the stage for skin cancers of all types.

Speaking of pounds, maintaining a healthy weight now will make staying healthy in your future years easier. Losing a few excess pounds is easier now than in midlife. Exercise and a diet full of nutritious foods is the best way to do this.

Womens Health Age 35-50

As women enter their 30es they begin a slow process of ending their reproductive years. This is known as perimenopause. Actual menopause is reached when your body has not experience your monthly cycle for one year. Perimenopause can last up to ten years. Every womans body is different and the duration and intensity of perimenopausal symptoms varies. If you experience at least 3 of the following symptoms you are probably entering perimenopause: moodiness, irritability, menstrual changes, sleeping disturbances, bloating/water retention, hot flashes, mild to moderate depression. Studies have shown that consuming phytoestrogens (plant estrogens) in addition to a healthy diet and lifestyle can reduce the severity of menopausal symptoms.

This is also the time when laugh lines and crows feet begin to show up, along with the dreaded double chin. As your skin ages collagen and elastin begin to break down, causing it to lose its firm supple appearance. New skin cell production begins to slow down and this may lead to a dry, dull complexion. Your scalp also is aging and this may lead to dull, brittle, even thinning hair.

Womens health 50 and beyond

The major concerns for this group are heart health, keeping bones str women's coats ong, and preserving healthy joints. It is vital to supply your body with the nutrients it needs to help prevent osteoporosis and heart disease.

Your skin will have matured as well. It now takes your skins cells twice as long to replace themselves as it did at age 20. Oil production decreases, leaving your skin significantly drier. Skin becomes thinner with age, making wrinkles, dropping, and irritation more likely. Years of sun exposure can make the skin tone uneven.

One way to be sure to get the nutrients you need is to take a good multi vitamin. This should be made of all natural ingredients, and cold-processed to retain enzyme activity. Make sure that your vitamin provider does clinical studies to prove delivery of the nutrients in their product, and is willing to publish the results.