Abstract Home Volume 6 Issue 11

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LIVING QUARTERS Disclaimer: The views or opinions presented in this publication are solely those of the writers and do not necessarily represent those of the company. Employees of ABSTRACT MEDIA GROUP COMPANY LIMITED are expressly required not to make defamatory statements and not to infringe or authorize any infringement of copyright or any other legal right. Any such article is contrary to company policy and is outside the scope of the employment of the individual writer concerned. The company will not accept any liability in respect of such article, and the employee responsible will be personally liable for any damages or other liability arising.

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hile it doesn't make much sense to spend $250 to extend the life of your $400 couch for three years, with very high quality furniture, the couple hundred bucks it costs to extend the life of the piece for decades is a far cry from what it would cost to replace it with a similar quality piece. If you are considering replacing your existing furniture, here are a few telltale signs that repair is just as good (if not better) an investment than replacement! After all, good furniture is often passed down through generations and can become part of family history.

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IT HAS BEEN AROUND FOREVER If a piece of furniture has survived not just a few decades in your home, but in a few previous homes, there's a good chance that it's worth fixing. Even if the piece is less than attractive in its current condition, furniture that has already gone the distance is likely to do it again if it is properly repaired.

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IT IS MADE OF QUALITY MATERIALS Tables and chairs made of solid wood can last for generations. Furniture upholstered in leather can actually grow more appealing with age. On the other hand, furniture covered in cheap fabric or constructed from manmade board rather than solid wood can age quickly and unattractively. It can be difficult to distinguish between quality material and material that is sub-

Identifying Quality

Craftsmanship In Furniture ished by a homeowner putting a piece together improperly. While you can get some flatpack furniture that will last quite a while, in general, purchasing furniture that is fully assembled is more likely to bring you a high quality piece.

par if you don't know what you are doing (especially since some materials that might be considered "low-quality" can end up being used very successfully in some very high quality pieces). If in doubt, there's no shame in asking the opinion of someone in the know.

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YOU KNOW YOU PAID PLENTY FOR IT The old adage of "You get what you pay for" certainly applies to furniture in the majority of cases. Though it is certainly possible to pay thousands of dollars for a table that is worth far less, the likelihood that a shop dealing in high prices will also deal in low quality is slim. Reputable shops can't stay reputable for long if they are selling shoddy furniture, so buying from these places is a good way to ensure that what you are purchasing is top quality. It should be noted that an expensive piece that goes out of style before it wears out is a far more likely scenario, but remember: distinctive pieces that are out of style can easily end up

being highly prized pieces for vintage shops and collectors a few years down the road!

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IT WAS PURCHASED FULLY ASSEMBLED As a general rule, furniture that is purchased as a complete piece is often of higher quality than "flat-packed" furniture that is assembled at home. Though not a completely infallible indicator, this rule is hardly something to dismiss, either. Furniture makers that focus on quality do not want that quality to be diminw w w . a m g tt. c o m

IT WAS COMMISSIONED AND CUSTOM BUILT Custom built furniture is not as popular as it once was. Sadly, today's craftsmen have fewer and fewer venues to "show their stuff" as the market becomes flooded by mass produced pieces of inferior quality. If you are planning to purchase a new piece of furniture and want the highest quality possible along with the ability to help design the piece to your exact specifications, custom furniture makers can still be found (and are generally well worth the effort). The average cost of custom furniture may be high, but for those who know the kind of quality and longevity that comes from a custom built piece, it is an investment that pays off in a very real way!

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LIVING QUARTERS

Christmas Decoration Storage Tips

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ecorating at Christmastime is fun, but packing away the decorations can be a real task. Having to detangle lights, remove Christmas tree decorations or remove wreaths can take forever and there never seems to be enough room to put everything. You sometimes wonder “how did it fit there in the first place”? Proper storage of Christmas decorations can help protect them, it can save space and makes it easier to find when decorating the following year. Try these tips when storing your Christmas decorations. Lights- probably the most troublesome to store, can be stored easily with these simple steps. Plug each end together and fold in half several times, tying the middle with a twisty. Put each string into a separate bag, then bulk all together and store in a

big garbage bag or box. Trees- since most of us use artificial trees, it is easier to tuck the branches as close to the stalk as possible and stow in a bag. Some persons store the tree without moving the decorations but this should not be done; it not only damages the decorations, it also bends the branches and strains the iron that attaches the branches to the tree. Wreaths- probably the easiest to stow, wreaths can be stored in bags. Since they are usually light, they should be put to rest on top of items and the option is open to leave light decorations on them such as ribbons. All other items should be removed before stowing. Ornaments- Ensure to remove all ornaments from trees and

wreaths and store together in a box. There is the possibility that one or two may have been broken, but glue and creativity can mend any broken ornament. The key is to separate the broken or discoloured ornaments from the rest. A box with different compartments can house both or they can be placed in separate boxes. Just remember it’s all about saving space. Broken or chipped ornaments should be wrapped in tissue paper before stowing so that sharp ends don’t puncture the box that they are placed in. Candles- For those who use and light candles during the season, ensure that they are wrapped before stowing. Wax paper is the ideal paper to use and they should be stored in a cool dry place. Candles and candle holders should be stored in separate boxes.

Christmas Table Setting Tips ther too close to each other nor too far apart, and if you want to use candle holders remember to pick low ones: guests need to see each other while they talk. Don’t use perfumed items (candles or centerpieces) on the table or near it, as the scent will interfere with the flavor of the dishes.

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ou clearly didn’t do all that Christmas grocery shopping for nothing. You are going to have guests at Christmas, but you can’t seat them informally all over the house for such an auspicious occasion. Nope! It’s time to bring out the fine china and gather around the table. No matter if your table is big or small, new 2

or not-so-new, here are three table setting tips to make sure your dining experience at least looks the part. (Lord knows what you’ll be serving especially if you don’t follow our trusted recipes.) Decide on a theme or color to give to the room for a festive look. Chromatic coherence is the first step to beauty, so consider first the room you are setting the table in, how much direct sunlight you will have, and choose among the traditional

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combinations like white and blue, red and gold – or silver, or just go a bit crazy and simply pick your favorite colors. Detail is Important Remember: an elegant glass is good enough, but colored glasses are more festive. Use napkins rings and place them at the center of the plates. Provide enough space for a wine bucket to chill your wine if you are serving white and remember to decant your wine in advance if you are serving an aged red. Place your guests nei-

Natural Is Greater. It’s fun to shop for Christmas decorations, and sometimes you do need to refresh your eyes with something new, but you can easily find inexpensive and unique decorations in nature. Twigs, leaves, branches, pine cones can be as beautiful as the decorations you buy at the store and no one will have the same ones as you. Leave a little branch of a pine tree on the side of the glasses for each guest to make the table more festive. Oh, check for bugs before doing so.



LIVING QUARTERS

Home Improvement Mistakes

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ou have a home, but it isn’t your dream home until you can get a few changes made here and there. Fine… No problem! Just be sure to note that there are some things that should be avoided at all costs when doing renovations or additions. Hiring a Friend to do the Work This is not a good idea unless he/she is a licensed professional in that field. Even then, expecting someone to work for a six pack instead of a paycheck begs the adage: "You get what you pay for." Hiring a professional who carries his/her own insurance can keep you out of court and help you keep your friends. If you hire a company, when someone calls in sick they have someone else to send out. Bad Timing Take into account when you want to do the project. The 4

price to replace what was just replaced. Keep your old carpet in place and offer a contract concession, it may cost your far less to do so.

middle of the rainy season is not the best time to replace a roof. Yet, replacing a roof during a contractor's busiest time is not the best choice either. Talking to your professional and working out a schedule of when would be most convenient for him, may end up helping you more.

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Using Low Grade Material Many home owners improve their homes in order to sell them and make poor choices related to materials. If a carpet, kitchen cabinet, bathroom tub etc, is poorly installed or doesn't fit the neighborhood property norms, the new home owners may ask for concessions on the

Working without Design Many homeowners don’t know how to come up with a plan or design, and don’t understand how design could affect the final outcome. Design is not decoration. It is the practical application of where permanent items will be installed in your home, how they will function, and what they look like. One easy example of poor design is a bathroom where the door can’t be opened without hitting the toilet. Never start without design. Visualize it and do a final check when the construction is in the rough phase. Check the height, distance and spacing for countertops, electrical switches, shower heads, and faucets. Otherwise, fixing mistakes later can be quite expensive.



LIVING QUARTERS

Home Improvement Tips

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or most people, home is a special place. It represents our sanctuary from the world and the place where we spend quality time to rest and renew our lives. It also represents the single largest investment that we make in our lives. Since your home represents such a huge part of your life, you know that it makes good sense to do what you can to enhance and improve your home. Here, we share tips on the most important renovations to consider when improving your living space.

tors will charge more if they know how much money they really have to spend, while contractors worry that owners expect a level of quality that doesn't match the price they want to pay. But pretending there isn’t any money involved won't make the project any less expensive. It just gives you less than you wanted. A lot of people have a budget that's a little bit of a lie, but if they were honest, contractors would be able to use higher-quality materials and give them more value for their money.

Get The Right Permits: If you are doing a home improvement project which requires electricity, plumbing, structural or other trades that may involve permits, seek these out in advance. Hire a professional general contractor or trades person if you are unclear as to what permits are required.

Be Energy Efficient: Change a light and save a bundle. Energy Star qualified light bulbs are 75 percent more efficient than incandescent bulbs. When just one room in every home is brightened by Energy Star lighting, the change will keep over one trillion pounds of carbon dioxide out of our air. Make a quick trip to the hardware store or home improvement center for a hot water insulation kit to wrap your water heater and save on water heating costs.

Be Real With Budgets: It's a word that touches a nerve on both sides of the renovation process. Owners fear contrac6

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Make sure to add top of the line faucets and fixtures to prevent water wastage as well. If you have air conditioning, service it. Dirty filters can hamper airflow and cause your A/C to use more energy. Keeping filters clean can help reduce your energy bill. Get a Good Gardener: Tidying up your garden costs nothing; regular maintenance like weeding, mowing and weatherproofing sheds, fences and garden furniture is also worthwhile. Spending small amounts of time and money on garden maintenance will save money in the long run rather than waiting till fences, furniture and outbuildings are in such a state they are beyond repair. On the topic of gardening, cut down on your garbage by creating a compost pile in your backyard. You can throw away everyday staples like eggshells, coffee grounds and vegetables into the pile. Paint, paint, paint: One of the simplest, most cost-effective improvements of all is paint! Freshly painted rooms look

clean and updated — and that spells value. When selecting paint colors, keep in mind that neutrals appeal to the greatest number of people, therefore making your home more desirable. A gallon of good paint costs roughly $200 and leaves you plenty of money to buy rollers, painter's tape, drop cloths and brushes. So buy a few gallons and get busy! Do Basic Updates: Basic updates add the most value to your home. Fix the roof when it leaks, replace wood that rots, and get rid of any mold that you find. These types of chores keep your home from deteriorating over time. Buyers want a healthy, solid, safe home, and they look carefully for signs of routine maintenance. Simple projects can keep a home in tiptop shape so that if you do decide to try and sell again, buyers will see a well-cared-for home. It's never too late to fall in love with your home again. Make the right improvements and you’ll be smitten again in no time.



HOME OFFICE

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Christmas Budgeting

his is the craziest time of the year for spending. In fact, Christmas trumps the Carnival period where profligacy is concerned. From gift purchases to food and home decorating supplies, there are a lot of finances to be accounted for. The end of the year is generally a hard time on our pockets. Therefore, budgeting is necessary to satisfy all our needs while making sure we have a little coin to spend. This is some insight into Christmas budgeting.

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First, you should make a list of all the holiday expenses that you will have. This includes gifts that you need to buy, cards, wrapping paper, traveling expenses, gift exchanges at work, charitable donations and decorations. This will give you a basic idea of things that you will need covered.

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Next, determine how much you have available to cover Christmas

egories if you need to. Tips: Do yourself a favor and stick to a cash only system. Putting the gifts on a credit card makes it easier to overspend.

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Take advantage of the early sales at periods such as Divali. These massive deals can save you a lot of money.

expenses this year. When you are considering this amount be sure that you only use money that you have set aside for Christmas or extra money that you can find in your budget.

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Divide the money up over the different categories that you have. This means assigning a specific amount for each gift. This is also helpful when you brainstorm for gift ideas. Having a set amount helps you find ideas within that price range.

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Create a list for your holiday shopping. You should have one or two

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ideas within your price range for each individual. If you take the time to search the sales papers you may be able to find some great gifts for less money than you budgeted or you may be able to get that person a nice gift.

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Then begin shopping with your list. You should also take your budget sheet with you. As you purchase each item cross it off your list and subtract it from your running Christmas budget total. This will let you know how your budget is doing at all times and make it easier to make adjustments between cat-

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Shopping online can save you money and time as you comparison shop. Don’t forget to look for free shipping codes and order in plenty of time for your gifts to arrive.

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Always add a few extra gifts to your shopping list. These gifts should be generic in case you receive a surprise gift or forget to shop for someone.

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You can earn extra money to cover your holiday expenses by taking on a holiday job. This may be a good shortterm solution if you forgot to budget for the holidays during the year.




ELEGANT IDEAS

Liven Up Yuletide DĂŠcor With Lights

A huge tree can create the right indoor atmosphere once decorated and lit the right way. w w w . a m g tt. c o m

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ELEGANT IDEAS

Dandy your outdoor dĂŠcor with a multitude of lights and accessories and become the talk of the town.

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ELEGANT IDEAS

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ELEGANT IDEAS

Cozy up your crib with a Christmas crèche adorned with lights.

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ELEGANT IDEAS

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KITCHEN

Convenient Christmas Recipes

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he time for cheer is finally here and Abstract will help you prepare. The good people in Home’s kitchen are sharing some great recipes for you to incorporate into your cooking this Christmas. We even threw in a couple baking and beverage recipes. Enjoy!

WHITE BREAD Ingredients 2 cups warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C) 2/3 cup white sugar 1 1/2 tablespoons active dry yeast 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1/4 cup vegetable oil 6 cups bread flour Directions In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water, and then stir in yeast. Allow to proof until yeast resembles creamy foam. Mix salt and oil into the yeast. Mix in flour one cup at a time. Knead dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth. Place in a well-oiled bowl, and turn dough to coat. Cover with a damp cloth. Allow to rise until doubled in bulk, about 1 hour. Punch dough down. Knead for a few minutes, and divide in half. Shape into loaves, and place into 16

3/4 cup turkey stock 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

two well-oiled 9x5 inch loaf pans. Allow to rise for 30 minutes, or until dough has risen 1 inch above pans. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 30 minutes.

BROCCOLI CASHEW SALAD Ingredients 1 pound bacon 1 cup mayonnaise 2 teaspoons cider vinegar 1/2 cup white sugar 2 pounds fresh broccoli, broken into florets 1/2 cup raisins 1 cup roasted cashews Directions Place the bacon in a large, deep skillet, and cook over mediumhigh heat, turning occasionally, until evenly browned and crisp, about 10 minutes. Drain the bacon slices on a paper towel-lined plate. Cool bacon and crumble into pieces. Whisk together the mayonnaise, cider vinegar, and sugar in a mixing bowl until the sugar has dissolved. Add the broccoli, raisins, cashews, onion, and crumbled bacon. Stir until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours. Let stand at room

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temperature 15 to 20 minutes before serving.

SAUSAGE, APPLE AND CRANBERRY STUFFING Ingredients 1 1/2 cups cubed whole wheat bread 3 3/4 cups cubed white bread 1 pound ground turkey sausage 1 cup chopped onion 3/4 cup chopped celery 2 1/2 teaspoons dried sage 1 1/2 teaspoons dried rosemary 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1 Golden Delicious apple, cored and chopped 3/4 cup dried cranberries 1/3 cup minced fresh parsley 1 cooked turkey liver, finely chopped

Directions Preheat oven to 350 degree F (175 degree C). Spread the white and whole wheat bread cubes in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Bake for 5 to 7 minutes in the preheated oven, or until evenly toasted. Transfer toasted bread cubes to a large bowl. In a large skillet, cook the sausage and onions over medium heat, stirring and breaking up the lumps until evenly browned. Add the celery, sage, rosemary, and thyme; cook, stirring, for 2 minutes to blend flavors. Pour sausage mixture over bread in bowl. Mix in chopped apple, dried cranberries, parsley, and liver. Drizzle with turkey stock and melted butter, and mix lightly. Allow stuffing to cool completely before loosely stuffing a turkey.

OLD-FASHIONED PASTELLES Ingredients 1 pound beef steak, minced or ground 1 pound lean pork, minced or ground 1/3 cup vegetable oil



KITCHEN 1 small onion, minced 1 small bunch green onions, minced including the tops 1 clove garlic, minced 3 medium tomatoes, diced 1 tablespoon vinegar Âź cup raisins, minced (optional) 2 tablespoons capers (optional) 10 green olives, minced (optional) Salt and black pepper to taste Vegetable oil 12 7-inch square pieces of banana leaf for wrapping 3 cups grated fresh corn, excess juice squeezed out Cotton string for tying Directions Brown the meat in the oil, then add the onion, green onions, garlic, tomatoes, vinegar, the optional ingredients (if desired), and the salt and pepper and cook down over medium heat for 15 minutes. The mixture should be fairly dry. 2. Using the vegetable oil, coat the inside of the banana leaves. Divide out the corn among the leaves and spread it about 5 inches square and Âź inch thick on each leaf. Divide out the meat mixture and spread it out over the corn (about two tablespoons per leaf ). Fold up the leaves into envelopelike packages and secure them with the string. Either boil the pastelles or steam them for an hour.

SANGRIA HAM

there to sweeten the basting juices needed in later steps. Roast, uncovered, until the sugar begins to melt, (about 20 minutes). During this time, mix together the pineapple juice and sangria. When the sugar has begun to melt, pour one cup of the wine mixture over the ham, and return the ham to the oven for 40 minutes. After one hour in the oven, baste the ham with a second cup of the wine mixture, stirring it into the pan drippings. Return the ham to the oven for 2 more hours, basting after the first hour with the remaining wine mixture. Lower the oven temperature to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C), and baste the ham every 20 minutes with the pan drippings for the final hour of cooking. A meat thermometer should read 160 degrees F (65 degrees C) before serving.

FRUIT CAKE Ingredients 1/8 cup chopped dried cherries 1/8 cup chopped dried mango 1/4 cup dried cranberries 1/4 cup dried currants 2 tablespoons chopped candied citron 1/4 cup dark rum 1/2 cup butter 1/4 cup packed brown sugar 1 egg 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1/8 teaspoon baking soda

Ingredients 1 (8 pound) bone-in ham with rind removed 1/4 cup whole cloves 1 pound brown sugar 1 cup unsweetened pineapple juice 2 cups sangria wine Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Score the ham 1/4 inch deep in a diamond pattern. Place in a good sized roaster with the fat side up, and stud with whole cloves. Pack the top of the ham with the whole pound of brown sugar to coat the surface as thickly as possible. Some may fall off into the pan. Leave it 18

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1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 cup unsulfured molasses 2 tablespoons milk 1/4 cup chopped pecans 1/4 cup dark rum, divided Directions Soak cherries, mango, cranberries, currants, and citron in 1/4 cup rum for at least 24 hours. Cover tightly, and store at room temperature. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Butter a 6x3inch round pan or loaf pan and line it with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Beat in egg. Whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon; mix into butter and sugar in three batches, alternating with molasses and milk. Stir in soaked fruit and chopped nuts. Scrape batter into prepared pan. Bake in preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then sprinkle with 2 tablespoons rum. Cut out one piece parchment paper and one piece cheesecloth, each large enough to wrap around the cake. Moisten cheesecloth with 1 tablespoon rum. Arrange cheesecloth on top of parchment paper, and unmold cake onto it. Sprinkle top and sides of cake with remaining rum. Wrap the cheesecloth closely to the surface of the cake, then wrap with paper.

Place in an airtight tin, and age for at least 10 weeks. If storing longer, douse with additional rum for every 10 weeks of storage.

EGGNOG Ingredients 4 cups milk 5 whole cloves 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 12 egg yolks 1 1/2 cups sugar 2 1/2 cups light rum 4 cups light cream 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Directions Combine milk, cloves, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla, and cinnamon in a saucepan, and heat over lowest setting for 5 minutes. Slowly bring milk mixture to a boil. In a large bowl, combine egg yolks and sugar. Whisk together until fluffy. Whisk hot milk mixture slowly into the eggs. Pour mixture into saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly for 3 minutes, or until thick. Do not allow mixture to boil. Strain to remove cloves, and let cool for about an hour. Stir in rum, cream, 2 teaspoon vanilla, and nutmeg. Refrigerate overnight before serving.

GINGER BEER 1 pound Ginger root, chopped 2 Quarts Water 3/4 cup Sugar 2 to 3 Lemons or limes, (juice only) Directions Place the chopped ginger, 3 cups of the water and 2/3 cup sugar in a blender and puree well. Let set for at least 30 minutes or overnight to extract all the flavor. Strain the liquid through a finemeshed sieve and pour into a pitcher. Add enough water to make 2 quarts and stir in the lemon or lime juice and additional sugar to taste. Chill well before serving.


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BRIDAL

Financially Frugal Couples:

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Savings Tips For Newlyweds

hile money may be the motivation for some people to get involved in a relationship, it is an unfortunate fact that money is one of the major causes of stress and relationship problems for married couples. Money and relationships do not go hand in hand easily so it is vital to work as a unit to ensure that finances are kept in check for your family’s future. Here are some financial tips for young couples. Have Open Dialogue The things that promote financial health have a lot in common with the things many people say promote a healthy relationship. Communication is a must when it comes to dealing with shared finances. This involves having an open conversation about what their future plans are — and just as importantly, where each partner stands in terms of income and debt. Only by having a clear picture of assets and debt, can a couple make the most of their financial resources and make a solid spending and investing plan. Consider everything that you need to discuss when it comes to your household budget and set some rules 20

on how you will spend your combined income on utility bills, food, mortgage, car maintenance, etc. If you don’t have those conversations early on, it’s not going to get easier. Cook Your Own Food Constantly spending on takeout is a really expensive habit. Make a list and buy groceries once per month. That way you can cook cost efficient meals for the entire family. Burgers, kabobs, and grilled chicken are easy meals to make and taste fantastic off the home grill for less than half the price of ones bought at restaurants. To optimize savings, consider having a home garden. You can boost your meals with some fresh items from your little garden. It doesn’t have to be complicated. A few herbs and simple veggies and fruit can significantly cut your market costs. Monitor Expensive Addictions Give up expensive habits, like cigarettes, alcohol, and drugs. Those habits cause money to flow away from you with nothing in return. Call up your fortitude and work hard to kick the habits and you’ll find that

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and the longer they’ll last (saving you on replacement costs).

money is staying in your pocket instead of burning up and floating away. Even TV can be a bad addiction. Try watching less TV and turn off your set when you are not watching it. There are a lot of financial benefits to this: less exposure to guilt-inducing ads, more time to focus on other things in life, less electrical use, and so on. Maintain Your Appliances. Check them to make sure there isn’t any dust clogging them and that they’re fairly clean. Look behind the appliances, and use your vacuum to gently clear away dust. Check all of the vents, especially on refrigerators, dryers, and heating and cooling units. The less dust you have blocking the mechanics of these devices, the more efficiently they’ll run (saving you on your energy bill)

Avoid and Get Rid of Personal Debt If you can’t manage your own money, how can you expect to manage your funds as one half of a couple? If you must use a credit card, control your credit card spending and try to pay off any debts you have (e.g. car, credit card, student loan, etc.). Pay more than the minimum monthly payment. Once you have paid off your debts/credit cards, take the money and put it towards savings or some other debt. If possible, the goal is to simultaneously pay off your debt while still putting some money into savings. Remember, you are lent money so that you will pay interest and late charges and make other people money. Proper savings etiquette is integral to the success of your financial future. These tips will make you the envy of all the other couples on the block if employed. Of course, there are other factors, which will contribute to the success of your relationship, but everything is easier when the financial burden is less.



FAMILY

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Perfect Purchases: Gift Ideas For This Holiday Season

t’s that time again, the time when we rack our brains trying to figure out the perfect gift for that perfect someone. Most of us usually get caught up in the last minute shopping rush. I am here to at least try to make your shopping experience a little more pleasing. Let’s start with the most innocent among us, the babes in arms. They are the very essence of the season and though most of them may not even be aware that they are the ones that light up our lives, we share our love with them if only to see glimpse of that innocent smile. Newborns and babies can never have enough clothes. Any mother will tell you, “They grow up so fast!” Look for gift sets with lots of clothes, especially light clothing to add to their comfort especially with our tropical climate. Even the smallest child needs to step out in style so look for unusual prints and bright colours. Also, and this is a personal opinion, stay away from the traditional ‘pink for girls & blue for boys’ and styles that are a little too adult looking, kids are only kids once in their lives, maintain their innocence for as long as you can. Another great gift idea is a baby book. What makes this so great is that it grows as the child grows and you can detail the most memorable moments of your child’s life. As your child develops, you may want to look at getting them more educational toys. Brands such as Leap Frog and VTech tend to be very educational. You can coach your tiny tots 22

about colours, shapes, etc. Such toys will surely give them a great head start for the next level. Older kids, begin to develop distinct personalities at around three years and therefore choosing a gift may be a little easier. For children who have developed a flair for the arts, a musical instrument may be appropriate. Also, art sets with crayons, paints, markers, etc will also get their hearts racing on Christmas morning. For kids who are a little more active, child sized sporting equipment may be suitable; be sure that it’s safe enough for them to use. Girls at this time may develop a likeness for jewelry so you may want to purchase a jewelry making kit; just be careful of the small pieces which they can slip into their mouths very easily. Boys on the other hand are more commonly wooed by gadgets such as remote controlled cars, helicopters, airplanes, etc. Other great ideas may be kits to help them realize their dreams, such as a doctor set, or chemistry set which must be age appropriate. You won’t want to find your tot creating something hazardous; it will be dangerous for you adults as well. Be sure to supervise these science projects at all times. The older the child the easier it is to find the right gift. Boys would tend to enjoy the latest play station, Xbox, and robots. You may also want to consider purchasing the complete gear for his favorite sport whether it is cricket or football. Girls will definitely enjoy the latest Barbie or Bratz’ doll and doll house. Of

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course no doll house would be complete without play furniture for every room. Girls who want to be “just like their moms” will enjoy kitchen sets complete with utensils and plastic food. Let your kids know that the plastic food is for pretending purposes only. Some may get carried away and try to bite into it. They may also enjoy costume jewelry and cosmetics (child appropriate of course) to experiment with their look. Other unisex gifts can include, puzzles, board games, bicycles, and you guessed it, more clothes. Tweens’ and Teens are notoriously difficult to please. They want to be treated as adults but still have childlike traits. So gifts such as books and unusual clothing may be well received. Teenagers are also concerned with image so look for designer jewelry, sunglasses, handbags and shoes. To impress even the most finicky of teens get them a gift certificate for a trendy store or even to a beauty spa. Teens are fascinated by music and virtual media nowadays. The IPod age is over, but you can get the latest trendy headphones (Like the Beats by Dre) or a cool tablet. Video games are great purchases any teenager will love. Lastly, gifts for men and women may vary depending on your relationship to the individual. For a co-worker or someone you may only be familiar with, you may want to purchase a nonpersonal gift such as a gift basket or a bottle of non-alcoholic wine. For mothers or wives, choose expensive jewelry, perfumes, gift sets which include cosmetics, lip-

sticks, and lotions. When looking for cosmetics, however, you should be well aware of the recipient and her preferences in terms of brand and colour. Intimate products such as lingerie or sleepwear, will be best suited for wives and girlfriends. Items such as stuffed bears, chocolates or jewelry boxes are also acceptable. Husbands and fathers will enjoy receiving a bottle of whiskey complete with whiskey glasses or even a bottle of expensive cologne. Golf enthusiasts will enjoy a set of golf clubs, better yet, a golf club membership. The same can be said for sports fanatics who would love to receive sports memorabilia. Men also love gadgets so digital cameras, the latest mobile phone or media players are also great buys. Persons who are athletic may appreciate machines such as stationary bikes and treadmills. Gym memberships may also be a good idea to keep your friend fit. Another great idea is vacation tickets. This will be suitable for anyone, just be sure to leave the dates open so that the recipient can work this into their busy schedule. There you have it, just a few ideas to make your Christmas shopping just that bit more special. Just remember to know who you are buying for then you would know what to purchase. Also, don’t be afraid to inject your own personality into your gift giving. Homemade presents such as beaded jewelry or even baked goods (cake, cookies) may even be cherished much more than any store bought gift. HAPPY SHOPPING!!!


WARDROBE

POWDER ROOM

Cleaning Out The Closet Tips For Paring Down Your Wardrobe

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our lips are among the most defining features on the face. Supple, soft, pink lips can add tons of sexy to a simple look without the addition of makeup. However, it takes a bit of work to get your lips looking luscious at all times. The secrets are as follows… Hydrate For beautiful and naturally pink lips, it is very important that you always keep your body hydrated. It is best to increase your water intake and include a lot of fresh fruit juices in your diet as it would keep your lips healthy and soft. Scrub a Dub Scrubbing your lips is one of the best natural remedies for getting pink lips without spending on expensive cosmetics. At night, before you hit the bed, use a soft toothbrush to scrub your lips. This will not only help to remove the dry chapped skin from the lips but will also keep your lips soft.

Keep It Clean Always remove the lip makeup you have applied during the day before going to sleep. To remove the makeup, you can use a soft cotton ball and put some almond oil or olive oil on it and gently rub the lips with it. Sleeping with lipsticks and lip gloss on your lips can be the reason behind your dark lips. Don’t Smoke If you want to be smoking hot, you have to make up your mind not to smoke. Smoking has some of the most damaging effects on your physical appearance you can encounter.

f there's anything that challenges my inner “neat freak”, it's my closet. I like to feel safe, so walking into a well packed closet calms me. I like knowing that I have endless wardrobe possibilities and can outfit myself for any situation that may arise. Ball gown? Yep, I have few. Guess how many balls I've been to or am likely to attend? (zero?). But I've come to realize that I don't need endless options — I just want the right options. I want my closet to reflect who I am, and that no longer includes branded t-shirts from parties I attended decades ago. I've put myself on a strict review schedule — every few months I do a closet overhaul with an increasingly narrower vision of what works in my life, and I've become more and more ruthless about making tough cuts. It's taken a while, but I've managed to whittle down my mess of a closet into an edited collection that ultimately feels much more satisfying. Here's what I do: Choose one category at a time. It's less overwhelming if you focus on, say, T-shirts/skirts. It also prevents the scenario where you've emptied your entire closet onto the bed but suddenly it's midnight and you're exhausted but you're only halfway done and you're very sorry you started the damn project in the first place. (Clearly that has NEVER happened to me...like, last week.)

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Make three piles: keep, consign and donate. w w w . a m g tt. c o m

I find a big obstacle to letting clothing go is the fact that you paid a lot of money for it; it feels wasteful to just give it away. But try to think about it this way: if you keep it, you're paying again with wasted space in your closet and by wearing something that doesn't flatter you. Give it to a friend who will love it or try a consignment or resale shop where you can recoup some of the cash. The rest can go straight to charity.

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In order to keep an article of clothing, it must pass this test: • Do I like/am I flattered by the cut AND the fabric AND the color? • Am I comfortable in it? • Does it fit me right this minute (not when I lose 10 lbs)? • Can any damage (stains or holes) be fixed? • Can I think of more than one place I can wear it? • Does it go with other things in my wardrobe? • Have I worn it in the past year? You must be ruthless. These are just clothes, not memories. You get to keep your memories even after the thing is gone; that's how memories work. Of course, certain important items are exempt from purging, i.e. wedding dress, letterman's jacket or baby clothes. It may take a couple of passes to get into the swing of paring down, but the sweet reward is a wardrobe that makes you look great and a streamlined closet that makes getting dressed much, much more fun.

DECEMBER 2015

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MEDICINE CABINET

HOME GYM

Important Fluids To Include In Your Diet

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here are many options for what to drink, but without a doubt, water is the best choice: It's calorie-free, and it's as easy to find as the nearest tap. After plain water, there are some other drinks which do pose significant health benefits. Of course, there are pros and cons to drinking these beverages, so drink them in moderation. Green tea contains a rich concentration of flavonoids and polyphenols, natural antioxidants that may protect cells from carcinogens (cancer-causing substances) and inhibit tumor growth by helping to neutralize free radicals in the body. The tea's antioxidants may also guard against heart disease by relaxing blood vessels, inhibiting the formation of blood clots that trigger heart attacks and strokes. Green tea also contains fluoride, which strengthens teeth; the flavonoids may build up bones as well, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and tooth decay. Soy milk contains soluble fiber and soy protein, which lowers LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and triglycerides, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. If you're drinking it instead of cow's milk, buy soy milk fortified with calcium and vitamins A and D. One caveat: Soy contains phytoestrogens, which 24

may be linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Talk to your doctor about drinking soy milk if you have a family history of the disease or have had it yourself. Research suggests that the same antibacterial properties present in cranberry juice that fight off urinary tract infections may also protect against periodontal disease. Experts theorize that a component of the juice called nondialysable material (NDM) inhibits bacteria from sticking to the gums. Many nutritionists are wary of fruit juices because of their sugar content, so limit your intake to no more than one glass (6 to 8 ounces) daily The high potassium and low sodium content of coconut water has a nutrient profile shown to help lower high blood pressure. Plus, because it is very low in fat, you can drink as much as you can without worrying about ingesting a lot of fattening agents. Also, coconut water has anti-viral and anti-fungal properties that can help you steer clear from these diseases. It has more hydrating properties than the average tap water so drinking it can certainly help your digestion well. Thus, you’ll be able to absorb food nutrients better and have easier bowel movements when you drink it.

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Increase Exercise Effectiveness

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eing a gym rat is no guarantee that you’ll have the body or fitness level you’ve always dreamt of. It is what you do at the gym that is important. Here are some tips to help you maximize your effectiveness at each workout. Compound exercises. Instead of isolating your muscles with exercises such as the bicep curl, you can maximize the time you spend in a workout by doing exercises that work out multiple muscle groups at once. With just a few exercises, you could get a full-body workout. Another benefit is that your muscles are working together as they do in the real world, rather than alone. Some great compound exercises include squats, deadlifts, good mornings, lunges, pushups, bench presses, military presses, rows, pull ups, dips, and more. Slow lifting. Many people contract their muscles slowly and then release more quickly. But if you lift slowly in both directions, you are maximizing each move. Lift and lower to a 5-second count in each direction. Shorten Workouts. Though the tendency of some people who really want to get a lot out of their workouts is to spend a

lot of time at the gym, the truth is that after 30 or 40 minutes, the benefit isn’t as great. To go that long, you’d have to lower the intensity of the workout, and that means that you’re spending too much time working out. It’s better to work out at a higher intensity for a shorter amount of time. Mix it up. Don’t stick to the same workout routine for too long, or your body will adjust to the stress level and you won’t be getting an effective workout. For strength training, change your routine every few weeks. For cardio, it’s best to cross train rather than, say, to run every time. Water. Be sure to hydrate throughout the day. It takes a couple of hours for your body to absorb the water, so you can’t just drink right before exercise. Make it a habit to drink water regularly throughout the day.



GARAGE

PETS

Three Bicycle Maintenance Tips That Should Not Be Overlooked

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he holiday season usually sees a lot of us at home spending time with the family. For cycling enthusiasts, it’s the perfect time to go bike riding. However, you should take the time to make sure your bike is well-maintained before hitting the streets. Here are three things you should never overlook.

bike and spin the wheel. The wheel should move smoothly, without wobbling. Repeat for the other wheel. Damaged rims cause uneven wear to tires and brake pads, which can shorten their lifespan. In addition, uneven tire wear usually leads to flat tires or a blown tire while riding—a potentially dangerous situation.

Brakes Brakes are a vital component of all bikes because they provide control over the speed you travel. Controlling speed reduces the likelihood of being in an accident. Brakes also permit the cyclist to maneuver while turning, riding up and down hills and avoiding debris or other obstacles. First, check the brake pads. Just like the brakes in your car, bicycle brakes wear down over time and need to be replaced.

Lubrication Oil lubricant coats the chain and other components of the drivetrain, helping them last longer and work more efficiently. Lube also reduces accumulation of dirt and grime, which helps increase performance of the moving parts. Apply lubricant evenly to the chain while slowly rotating the pedals in a counterclockwise direction. Also, remember to lube moving parts on the derailleur, the pivot point on the brake levers and any exposed cable wire. Remember to wipe off any excess oil with a clean, dry rag, especially on the chain. A properly lubricated bike makes shifting and braking smooth, thereby increasing performance.

Wheels Clean the wheels with rubbing alcohol and a clean, dry cloth. Inspect the rims for nicks, scrapes, dents or other damage. Next, elevate one end of the 26

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Give Your Dog The Perfect Holiday Home

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ogs want dream homes too, just like their owners. Well we would like to think so. When building a dream house the first thing that you need to do is decide what type of house you would like to build. You will need to figure out an overall house style. Where the house will be located, who would do the actual building and what materials you will need to use. Firstly you measure your dog. Take the length of your dog from the tip of its nose to the end of its rump. Then measure form the floor to the dogs’ shoulders. This will let you know how much space the dog would need to move around freely. After measuring the dog, you can go on to drafting up the floor plans and making the list of what material would be needed. You then need to clear and level the building site. Remove anything that would be in the way of the building, clear the area down to short grass or soil. Make sure to level the ground where the house will be. Decide if the house should be raised or flat. Raising the house off the ground will pre-

vent small animals, insects and water from entering. The most basic dog house to build is a raised rectangle; a one room house with an A-frame roof. The frame provides the house's structural integrity and must be built correctly to ensure its durability. Then, you add the walls to the house. Take care when measuring and cutting the walls. They need to lie flush to prevent leaking. The next step is to add the roof. Whether you go with a flat roof or A-frame, remember that once a dog house is enclosed, it is difficult to re-open without disassembling the entire house. So pay attention to this part of the house-building process. Now is the time to add your extras like decorative vents and moldings. For ease of cleaning, there are different types of flooring that you can put in place, such as treated lumber or vinyl. You want your dog's home to be beautiful as well as livable. Consider painting your dog's home the same color as your own house, or get wildly creative and have the house reflect your furry friend's personality.



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Cool, Cold Places To Chill This Christmas

rinbagonians usually bawl at the first bit of cold breeze that blows (as tropical as those breezes may be). Yet, there are some of us who long for the snow experience. We definitely can’t get it here, so during the cold Christmas period we’ve found some interesting cold places for you to visit. Christmas markets, Germany & Austria December sees these romantic historic markets pop up all over Germany and other Central European nations. Expect cute stalls selling everything from gingerbread to sleigh bells and plenty of good cheer, toasted with a warming glass of glühwein. Chamonix, France For snow enthusiast couples, Chamonix is a wonderful travel destination. The resort town in the southeastern area of France played host to the first Winter 28

general in the city is one of the best winter experiences in Europe. Princes Street Gardens are transformed into a winter wonderland complete with a snowball arena and an ice rink. The market is perfect for presents and mulled wine, and the fairground makes it fun for all ages. Olympics in 1924 and is now a haven for advanced skiers and mountain climbers. The town is filled with boutiques and restaurants, and surrounded by spectacular views of the Alps across France, Italy, and Switzerland, including Mont Blanc, the highest peak in the chain. Steep slopes and black diamonds are prevalent, but there are plenty of green runs for beginners. Aside from the outdoor activities, there are hot tubs, fireplaces, and resort spas for cozying up with a hot chocolate or cider. Edinburgh, Scotland Edinburgh is world-famous for its Hogmanay celebrations, but the Christmas season in

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Rovaniemi, Finland Fistfuls of Christmas clichés characterize Rovaniemi, the 'official' terrestrial residence of Santa Claus. Everyone's favourite bearded man hangs out in an atmospheric Arctic Circle grotto, and it's free to visit him (but photos are another story). Snow and reindeer add festive spirit, while the Arktikum museum gives insights into life at these latitudes. Alberta, Canada Alberta is arguably the best province in Canada and has some of the best cold weather destinations on Earth in both Banff National Park and Jasper.

Alberta also has some great winter sports to take part in from Calgary to Edmonton and everywhere in between. St. Petersburg, Russia People enthuse about the “white nights” of midsummer Russia, but winter is the time for a truly white weekend with snow on the ground. The combination of pink skies and baroque and neoclassical architecture under a blanket of snow makes for a truly magical sight. Anchorage, Alaska There are many things to do in Anchorage, Alaska. Visitors can check out the Northern Lights if they want to experience a spectacular winter light show. For adventurers there’s also ice climbing or snowboarding. To get a good look at the area, the Alyeska Aerial Tram goes right over the city. Anchorage, Alaska is easily accessible by plane and there are many great places to stay in the area.


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