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.
T
he market for artificial grass is growing quickly. It is being driven by a combination of better manufacturing techniques combined with an increasing awareness of the longer term environmental and economic benefits. Originally it was limited to large sports clubs, but now you are just as likely to see it on your neighbour’s garden. The benefits really fall into 3 distinct groups:-
1
Lifestyle and ease of use. There is no doubt at all that in our busy lives time becomes more precious as we seek to juggle all our responsibilities. Mowing the lawn can take 2 to 3 hours out of your week and that is for a normal size garden. Artificial grass needs very little maintenance and can free up a lot of time. It is worth mentioning two distinct types of users who also find it very valuable:a. Older people who cannot physically mow their lawns. b. Holiday home owners who are not always “on site” to look after their lawns.
2
Environmental issues. As our weather grows warmer there will be more pressure on restricting water usage. Hose pipe restrictions can really destroy a natural lawn, but artificial grass will not be affected. Another benefit from artificial grass is that it actively helps the environment. As well
Have A Lovely Landscape Despite The Dry Weather as substantially reducing water usage we also get – a. No carbon emissions from petrol driven lawn mowers. b. No fertilizers needed. c. Pollution from water runoff carrying chemicals into the drains is minimized.
3
Special circumstances. It always surprises people to know the varied circumstances when artificial grass can be beneficial. Here is a brief list:a. Dog runs. It can’t be dug up, it’s easy to clean and keep sterile and there will be no muddy paws. This makes it a favourite at dog kennels. b. Swimming pools. It is very useful as ground cover beyond the “splash back” area.
No muddy areas to carry dust and dirt into the pool, no ruts from the sun loungers and stays green whatever the weather. c. Roof gardens. If your roof is not strong enough to support a natural turf cover then artificial grass will fill in very nicely. It also means that you don’t need to worry about the grass clippings. w w w . a m g tt. c o m
d. High wear and tear areas. Very often, especially with children, you can end up with parts of the garden where constant usage will not allow grass to grow properly and bald patches which can turn to mud cause real problems. Carefully laid artificial grass can blend in with surrounding features and help overcome this. APRIL 2015
ABSTRACT HOME
1
LIVING QUARTERS
Making Man Cave Magic
Y
our husband/father may have bought the house, but what is there in it for him really? It’s no secret that wives usually take over the home’s décor. However, there should be a retreat for your father within the home. So here are some tips for your daddy’s personal man cave. In order to build the perfect man cave, one must have a ‘cave.’ Therefore, an appropriate space needs to be chosen. Naturally, the word "cave" is very loosely used in the case of developing a man cave. Basements and attics are uncommon in Trinidad and Tobago, but they make for the perfect spaces. Otherwise, you can just as easily use an unused bathroom, the shed out back or the garage. They key is getting anywhere that is spare, has adequate elbowroom, and is left currently unused or pretty much abandoned. Just don’t use a high traffic area as your dad needs his personal space in his man cave. This area is his and should be off limits unless dad approves it. Before you start designing the room, pick an object that he 2
would like and use it as your inspiration in choosing the overall look and color of your man cave. This object can be a pool table, jukebox, picture or preserved animal head. People’s tastes vary, so go with what you know he will relate to. No matter what floats your father’s boat, a TV is a must for his man cave. All eyes must face the flat screen TV so choose a wall and select the best screen possible to fit the available space. Sitting down is a requirement so make sure the furniture is fac-
ABSTRACT HOME APRIL 2015 w w w . a mg t t . co m
ing where the television is in full view. To get the right TV, take into account three factors: viewing distance, picture quality, and what you are willing to spend. For example, a distance of 8 to 11 feet means a screen size of 40 to 52 inches will give the right experience. Now that you have the television locked, get the right accessories. A surround sound system is a must to go with the big screen TV. You don't have to by the worlds most expensive surround sound system to enjoy the game, a simple system puts out great sound for anywhere around $500 -$1000. The sound system will aide you in getting the lime started when you crank up the music for you and your friends. A next must for the ultimate man cave is games. You can never have too many of these. From board games to card games, from a pool table to a table tennis table, whatever fits in and makes your world rock is absolutely fine. Plus, with the modern dad, high tech video games should not be left out. Get lots of video games plus the latest console to play them.
By the way, make sure there is WIFI access as well. Another addition to the dream male space is a bar fridge. You can go all out with a full sized kitchen fridge and freezer if you wish, but a bar/mini fridge works just as well. In fact, why not just get a bar in there, or at least something resembling one. A couple stools, a counter and a selection of the right drinks and utensils are all you need. Last, but not least, the right décor is essential to the man cave. Don’t feel because daddy is a man’s man he does not want his room coordinated and comfy. Filling a room with manly movie prints, sporty furniture, geeky 8-bit aquariums and weaponry decor will not only appease the eyes, but make the space much more enjoyable for all visitors. Is he a fan of Chelsea Football Club? Then paint the space blue or frame and hang up some of his favourite player jerseys like art. A man cave is essential for your father’s unwinding. He works hard for you and the family, so maybe building him a man cave is the ideal payback.
LIVING QUARTERS
The Keys To A Perfect Floor Plan
F
inding the perfect plan may be time consuming, but it’s key to the success of building a home. If you’re not in love with the final product, even if it’s only on paper, you won’t be committed to seeing it through to reality. You may already have a picture in your mind of what your dream home looks like. It’s important, however, to ask yourself a series of questions that can help you choose a plan that works for you. The answers will provide direction for finding the home you need, not just the home you want. First, ask the lifestyle questions. Are you single or married? Do you have small children or will you in the future? If so, will each child require a separate bedroom or will they share rooms? How many bathrooms are necessary to adequately fulfill the day-to-day needs of the family? Do you have parents who may be living with you in the future? Do out-of-town visitors often stay overnight? Do you frequently work at home? How often do you entertain? Do you require separate formal and casual spaces for different occasions? The
4
answers to these questions may indicate the floor plan that best suits the way you live. For example, answers to the first few questions help determine the number of bedrooms and baths you need, arguably the most important element of a floor plan. If you have elderly parents or frequent overnight guests, you may want to consider a floor plan with a separate guest suite, which includes a private bath or private access to a full bath. Answering the question about how often you work at home can determine whether a plan with a designated home
ABSTRACT HOME APRIL 2015 w w w . a mg t t . co m
office, study or quiet computer alcove is a smart investment. Answers to questions about how you entertain can help you decide what types of common rooms you’ll need. If you enjoy entertaining on a grand scale, you may want a set of formal rooms (formal living and dining rooms or a library, for instance) that provide the space and the proper atmosphere for such occasions. If your entertaining habits are more casual, you may opt for a large family room adjoining an open kitchen instead. Many people today choose plans that feature a central Great Room, the character of which can change from formal to casual to suit your entertaining mood. Next, ask yourself what kinds of activities you enjoy. Are you an indoor or an outdoor person? If you prefer spending time inside, choose a plan with features that enhance your leisure time: space for media equipment, a hobby room or a studio, or a gourmet kitchen. If you can’t resist the call of the great outdoors, consider a plan with an open porch, a screened porch, a deck, a terrace or some other space that
functions as an outdoor living room. Does the plan allow enough lawn area for children to use for outdoor games and sports? If gardening is your passion, consider the benefits of a plan featuring a mudroom near the utility room and a half-bath, for quick and-easy cleanup. Or, choose a floor plan that offers multiple outdoor views overlooking the grand landscape or your handiwork in the garden. Finally, the geographical features of your lot, if you’ve already purchased one, may determine the home bestsuited to it. A narrow lot usually calls for a design that rises up instead of spreading out. A wide, shallow lot, on the other hand, is perfect for a one-story rambler. A sloping lot offers you the chance to build a home with a daylight (walk-out) basement or an inconspicuous, tuck-under garage. For a scenic lot, you may want a design that offers outdoor spaces like decks or porches providing a panoramic view. Keeping the above factors in mind will help you select the perfect lot for your new home.
LIVING QUARTERS
Simple Ways To Spice Up Your Tea Party
T
ea parties are a great way to keep in contact with friends and family. It’s a timeless tradition that both the young and old can enjoy so it is a great way to bring different generations together. For those of you who think that tea parties are a bore think again. There are many fun things that can be done. These include games, dancing and the usual conversations. The activities chosen would depend solely on what type of tea party it is. A tea party can be held to announce your daughter’s engagement or it can be held to celebrate a wedding anniversary. Tea parties are a sophisticated way of celebrating the happy moments in your life. To get started you must first plan out the theme of the party. The theme should be indicated on the invitations, which should to be sent out at least three weeks in advance. When sending invitations be creative, for instance if you are having a garden tea party try getting invitations that have pressed flowers on the outside to create a back to nature feeling. After the invitations have been sent out you can now get started on setting up the loca6
tion. Decorate according to the theme that was chosen and use colors that can add life to the location. This is a tea party and not a house party so be careful not to over decorate. You can be creative yet simple at the same time. The table will be the centre of attention in a tea party so it is essential that it stands out. Set up the table in an area that will allow the guests to have room to mingle. A nice tablecloth should be placed on the table. The tea sets should be at one end of the serving table. Next to the tea set place the teapot, sugar, milk and a pitcher of hot water to dilute the tea. On the other end of the table you can set up a coffee service or another type of tea. Place the refreshments in the
ABSTRACT HOME APRIL 2015 w w w . a mg t t . co m
middle of the table. The traditional refreshments for tea parties usually include sweet finger foods such as cookies, cakes, muffins and scones placed on platters or cake stands. For a savory bite you may also include some sandwiches. There are two ways that your guests can be served. You can either serve them or you can allow them to serve themselves. If you are going to be serving the guests place napkins, plates and utensils at each person’s setting. Ask your guests how they would like their tea and proceed to make it as they wish. Tell them that they can proceed to help themselves with the refreshments. As a host it is not nice to have a table that does not have
enough refreshment available for your guests. To avoid this have extra finger foods available, and always replenish the table when it needs to be. While having tea, the guests can entertain each other with light conversation and jokes. If your guests are not familiar with each other introduce them and be the conversation starter for them. After tea they can relax to the sound of some of your favourite music. Light upbeat music is usually the best and can entertain any age bracket. If you decide to have games this is the perfect time to start playing them. After eating some people seem to get listless, so a game will liven up the mood. As the host, encourage your guests to play by taking part yourself. Show them that you are having fun and they are more likely to join in. You can end the evening with some music and dancing. As you can see it doesn’t take much to throw a tea party so you can surely host your own. The main goal of the day would be for your guests to have fun and everyone knows how to do that. So I hope that you will soon be getting some friends together to celebrate an evening of tea, conversation and laughter.
HOME OFFICE
A
Tips For Saving On Shindigs
s soon as Easter is over people begin planning for the next bit of vacation time. It may be sad, but it is true. For many of us, this vacation time means traveling abroad. Others use it to accomplish personal goals, which were stifled by work or school. For others, this period normally equates to parties. We hit the clubs on weekends and go to concerts when they appeal to us. Some of us decide to play promoter and host our own parties. This can cost a lot of time and money. So Abstract Home has decided to help those who plan to host a shindig of their own by giving them a few tips on how to save money while hosting an event at your home. Shave your guest list When planning a party, it's natural to feel like you have to invite all your friends and family and everyone who's invited you to a party recently. But the bigger the gathering, the more hectic and pricey it will be. Instead, limit yourself to a set number of guests, and stop yourself from adding people at the last min8
ute. Hint: Pretend it's a catered party and you're being charged at least $50 a head. If you're throwing a children's party, invite only those people who you know will enjoy a few hours in a house full of kids.
cents per serving. Finish the meal off with a quick salad, a loaf of bread, and a big bottle of inexpensive Chianti, and your friends will be saying grazie for weeks. Or if you're comfortable with the idea, you can ask guests to pitch in with a potluck dish. How many times have you heard about bottle parties? If food is really your thing and the fun of a party is preparing a spectacular meal, keep your guest list extremely small, perhaps just one other family. Choose fellow foodies, and you can take turns hosting dinner parties where you try to outdo each other.
Stick to simple foods Food and drink is often the centerpiece of a good party, but that doesn't mean you have to serve a full meal. There's nothing wrong with a dessert party, a light brunch, or a cocktail reception that includes only hors d'oeuvres and simple drinks. If you want to serve a substantial meal, think vegetarian, Italian, or both. A huge pan of spinach lasagna or baked ziti is easy to make and costs only
Send electronic invitations Paper invitations can cost a bundle and postage adds up fast (not to mention the time it takes to gather all the right mailing addresses). Instead, put technology to work for you and invite people via e-mail or online invitations. Evite and Blue Mountain are great places to start, especially for adult or holidaythemed parties. Egreetings has a good selection of kid-oriented designs.
ABSTRACT HOME APRIL 2015 w w w . a mg t t . co m
Hook up with another partying family Get together with one or two other friends whose kids' birthdays are near your child's and host a group party. This works especially well for children under age 4 — they won't care if the party isn't just for them — and you'll save big by splitting the expenses among a few families. Sing the birthday song for each of them and have cupcakes instead of separate cakes. Stay close to home If you can swing it, have parties in your own home or backyard — this makes it much easier to organize activities and you won't have to lug food and supplies around. If your living space is simply too small to accommodate a gaggle of friends and family, consider borrowing a relative's house but make it clear that you'll do all the setting up and cleaning up. Or, if weather permits, use a local park. It's much less expensive to drape some streamers around a picnic table than it is to use just about any rentable venue.
ELEGANT IDEAS
Old School Rules
This mix of modern and old school gives this dining space the right balance of retro and real-time. w w w . a m g tt. c o m
APRIL 2015
ABSTRACT HOME
11
ELEGANT IDEAS
This child’s room is decorated with retro style wallpaper and accents that give it a true 80’s feel. 12
ABSTRACT HOME APRIL 2015 w w w . a mg t t . co m
ELEGANT IDEAS
This vintage chair and desk are given that extra old feel with the addition of an antique face mirror. w w w . a m g tt. c o m
APRIL 2015
ABSTRACT HOME
13
ELEGANT IDEAS
Boost your bedside aura with an antique chair at the base of your old-school bed frame.
14
ABSTRACT HOME APRIL 2015 w w w . a mg t t . co m
ELEGANT IDEAS
It’s amazing how antique accent pieces can add character to a room. This vintage piano and chair is an example. w w w . a m g tt. c o m
APRIL 2015
ABSTRACT HOME
15
KITCHEN
C
Cognac The Elixir Of The Gods
ognac is a type of brandy and it is considered to be one of the finest of the spirits. Remy Martin, Hennessey and Courvoisier are among some of the more well known cognacs available. The drink is named after the town of Cognac in France, and is one of the most famous types of brandy. Cognac is produced in the wine growing region surrounding the town from which it takes its name, in the French Departements of Charente and Charente Maritime. The six types in order of prestige are: Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, Borderies, Fin Bois, Bon Bois and Bois Ordinaires. The types are based upon the specific region in which they are produced, because of the qualities brought to the grapes by specific types of soil. The more chalky the soil, the better it is for brandy production. Growing areas are called crus. Strict laws define what can be considered as Cognac, so don’t think for one second that any brandy can be called Cognac. According to French Law, to bear the name Cognac, the production methods for the distilled brandy must meet defined legal requirements. This ensures that there is strict conform-
16
ity to a 300 year old production process. It must be made from at least 90% Ugni Blanc, Folle Blanche or Colombard grapes; of these, Ugni Blanc, known to locals as Saint-Emilion, is the most widely used variety today. It then has to be distilled twice in copper pot stills and aged for at least two years in French oak barrels from Limousin or Tronçais. Quite a process you might say and most cognacs are aged considerably longer than the minimum legal requirement of two years. Since the early 1990s, cognac has seen a significant transformation in its American consumer base. It has moved from a predominantly older, affluent white demographic to a younger, urban, and African American consumer. This change has come about because Cognac has become ingrained in hip hop culture after being celebrated in songs by artists such as Tupac Shakur, Busta Rhymes, Biggie Small, Ludacris and Nas. It is estimated that African Americans now comprise 60 to 8o percent of the American Cognac market. This change can also be seen in the Caribbean. Necessity, as the mother of invention, certainly describes the development of Cognac. In the seventeenth century, the town
ABSTRACT HOME APRIL 2015 w w w . a mg t t . co m
of Cognac in the French region of Charante was an exporter of salt and wine. The wine was particularly popular with the Dutch and English merchants who visited the region. They would often distill the wine so that the ship voyage home would not affect the quality of the spirit. A vintner named Chevalier de la Croix-Marrons is the first person known to heat wine and then send it back through the still again, thus creating "burnt wine." The wine was then stored in oak barrels. It was supposed to have been diluted upon arrival, however the merchants found that the distilled wine had improved with age and by its contact with the wood. In the eighteenth century, two men whose names has become synonymous with cognac, each separately built successful distilleries that manufactured Cognac. Jean Martell, a French former smuggler, arrived in Cognac and built a distillery on the Charent River. In 1765, James Hennessy, an Irishman who served in the French navy, also set up shop on the river as Hennessy Connelly and Company. The following year, Hennessy's company received its first order from the American colonies. Soon after, Cognac was also exported to the Far East.
The blending is one factor that determines the value of a Cognac, which is in turn identified by the Cognac label. The age of the Cognac shown on the label matches the youngest Cognac used in the blend. As Cognac ages, it gains its distinctive amber color. The tag VS for Very Special, is used for Cognacs that are at least two years old. VSOP is Very Special Old Pale, where the youngest brandy is stored at least four years in a cask, but the average wood age is much older. XO Extra Old, is where the youngest brandy is stored at least six years, but can average upwards of 20 years. Although it is primarily enjoyed as a beverage, it is also used in cooking for sauces, marinades, fruit preserves, and chocolates. Cognac is often splashed over dishes for flamed presentation. In the Caribbean a range of Cognac is available in our restaurants and bars. In most of our homes a bottle of Cognac could be found waiting to join in on our special occasions. More so we drink to our hearts delight without ever paying attention to the process that takes place before we get to the final product. So the next time you are about to pour yourself a drink think about what makes your drink special.
RECIPES
T
rinidad and Tobago has a very diverse ethnic background, so it is not uncommon to see all types of food fare being enjoyed locally. From Mediterranean to Mexican, there is almost always an option for you to enjoy. This week, we decide to try to satisfy those of you who crave the Polish cuisine that is so readily available in the United States that you may have tasted there.
POLISH CUCUMBER SALAD Ingredients 1 pound small cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced Salt to taste 1 bunch dill, chopped 2 1/2 tablespoons sour cream 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 pinch white sugar Ground black pepper to taste Directions Sprinkle salt over cucumbers in a bowl. Let stand until cucumbers are soft, about 5 minutes. Squeeze liquid from cucumbers and discard. Add dill to cucumbers. Mix sour cream, lemon juice, and sugar in a bowl; add to cucumbers and toss to coat. Season with black pepper. Chill completely before serving, at least 30 minutes.
DILL PICKLE SOUP Ingredients 1 pound beef neck bones 1 cup mixed vegetables 2 cups diced dill pickles 2 quarts water 18
Polish Recipes 2 cups diced potatoes 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 cup milk Salt to taste Directions In a large pot, place neck bones, vegetables, and pickles. Add water. Cook over medium heat for 45 minutes. Add potatoes; cook until soft, about 20 minutes. Remove neck bones. Increase heat to medium-high. Combine flour and milk in a small bowl, and gradually stir into soup. Continue stirring until mixture boils. Season to taste with salt.
POLISH SAUSAGE & POTATOES Ingredients 4 potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 inch cubes 1 onion, chopped 2 green bell peppers, cut into 1 inch pieces 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 cup vegetable oil 1 (16 ounce) package kielbasa sausage, cut into 1 inch pieces Directions Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook onions and potatoes for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Reduce flame to med and stir in bell pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Cover, and cook 5 minutes. Stir in kielbasa, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, or until onions are caramelized.
ABSTRACT HOME APRIL 2015 w w w . a mg t t . co m
BEET PIEROGIES Ingredients 1 1/2 cups peeled, chopped beets 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion 2 teaspoons margarine 1 egg 1/2 cup water 2 cups all-purpose flour Directions Place the beets and onion into a saucepan over medium heat; add about 1/2 cup of water, bring to a boil, and reduce heat to low. Simmer until the beets are tender, about 15 minutes. Drain the water from the vegetables, and place into the work bowl of a food processor. Add the margarine, start the machine, and pulse several times to finely chop the beets. Whisk together the egg and water until thoroughly mixed, then mix in the flour. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, and knead until smooth and elastic, 5 to 8 minutes. Divide the dough in half, and form each half into a ball. Roll out a ball until it's 1/8 inch thick or less. Using a cup or cookie cutter, cut out dough circles. Repeat with remaining dough. To fill, place a dough circle into the palm of your hand, and stretch the dough out slightly. Place about 1 tablespoon of the beet filling in the center of the dough, and fold the dough over the filling. Pinch the edges of the dough together to seal completely, and use your index finger to make small crimped indentations all-round the sealed edges. Dust the completed pierogi with flour.
Fill a large pot with water, and bring to a boil. Drop the pierogies into the water, 1 or 2 at a time, and stir to prevent them from sticking. Reduce heat to a gentle boil, and cook until the pierogies float to the top, about 5 to 8 minutes. Drain and serve.
POLISH RICE CAKES Ingredients 2 cups long grain white rice 6 cups skim milk 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup butter 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese 3 eggs 1 cup half-and-half cream 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup self-rising flour 1/2 cup golden raisins Directions Combine rice, milk and salt in a saucepan and cook slowly until liquid is absorbed. Stir frequently. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour one 9x13 inch baking pan. In large bowl, combine the butter and cream cheese. Cream well with wooden spoon. In another bowl combine eggs, half and half, and vanilla. Add to creamed mixture and blend well. Stir in the cooled rice mixture and mix well. Add the flour and blend well. Stir in the raisins. Pour batter into the prepared pan, pat top to avoid any air bubbles. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 1 hour. Let cake stand for one hour before turning out of pan.
BRIDAL
Often-Neglected Relationship Issues
L
ove can be hard work and it’s easy to think you might be alone in feeling the way you are about your relationship right now, but trust that you’re not alone! Every relationship has its own issues and some of the most common ones are the most neglected ones. Here are some of them. Time Allocation Time spent apart and time spent together is another common relationship concern. You may enjoy time together with your partner and your partner may want some time together with you, but you also may enjoy time alone, or with other friends. If this gets interpreted as, "my partner doesn't care for me as much as I care " or "I resent the time my partner spends alone because they don't want to spend it with me and they must not really love me," you may be headed for a disastrous result by jumping to a premature conclusion. Check out with your partner what time alone means and share your feelings about what you need from the relationship in terms of time together. Perhaps you can reach a compromise where you get more time together but leave your partner the freedom to be alone or with others when it is needed, without your feeling rejected
20
or neglected or thinking of your partner as selfish, inconsiderate, or non-caring. Demanding what you want, regardless of your partner's needs, usually ends up driving your partner away. Sex Even partners who love each other can be incompatible sexually. A lack of sexual self-awareness and education compounds these problems. Yet, having sex is one of the last things you should be giving up. Sex is not just for procreation or recreation, it actually brings couples closer together, releases hormones that help our bodies both physically and mentally, and keeps the chemistry of a healthy couple healthy. Sex also promotes trust. During the act of sex couples have to face each other in the nude and exchange bodily fluids exposing their insecurities as they do so. Infidelity Problems are the cause; infidelity is often the effect. But what most people don't realize before it's too late is infidelity is a problem all on its own. The reasons people cheat are many, from sexual dissatisfaction to plain and simple unhappiness. Whatever the reason one cheats, the discovery of a cheating spouse starts a fury among men un-
ABSTRACT HOME APRIL 2015 w w w . a mg t t . co m
like no other. Aside from the feelings of disrespect, lack of trust develops, making the contemptible act hard to bounce back from but not impossible if one so chooses. It is important to note that infidelity does not mean sex, but placing yourself in a position for cheating to occur. If you and a co-worker get too chummy one night or you resort to going out on dates with other people behind your spouse’s back – you are definitely cheating. How would you feel if it was done to you? The effort spent cheating and hiding would be better spent improving you and your spouse’s sex life. Gossiping If you are talking about the problems in your relationship with friends or relatives but not working on improving the situation, you are gossiping. Gossip is not a productive way to handle problems, and can result in additional problems. For instance, your partner may feel betrayed that you revealed sensitive material to others that made him embarrassed or uncomfortable around them. Also, if you promote a negative side of your partner or your relationship, others may get a distorted view, and changes in their attitudes and behavior may follow. Others may remember your conflicts
long after you and your partner have gone past them. Instead, work on improving your communication skills as a couple. Turn toward your partner, not away. If you need help, seek out the assistance of an objective third party such as a therapist who works with couples. When it comes to your needs, stop complaining and start asking! Communication The foundation and relative success of every relationship you maintain in life is built on communication; however, it is also the most common relationship problem. All relationship problems stem from poor communication skills, but if you want your relationship to work, you need to learn how to talk and listen properly to your partner. It's no secret--men and women have very different communication styles; however, most men don't realize that a woman's idea of communication means actually listening to what she has to say and understanding her, as well as relating to her problems without judging her or providing unwanted advice. So, block off an hour or two for quality time with her and make the effort after a long day to discuss work, friends, your relationship, etc.
FAMILY
Have Some Stress-less Family Fun
P
rincess Diana once said “family is the most important thing in the world.” Indeed this statement is true. Where would most of us be without our families? Families provide a safe haven for us and can be a support center. However, with the current economic situation and demanding jobs many times families are often put on the back burner. This article should provide some insights on how to create a healthy stress-free family.
1
Create a game night - you’re never too old to play games. Pull out the Monopoly board and indulge in healthy competition between each other. Not only will your kids find this amusing but it is a good way for interaction between each other to occur, at little or no cost at all.
2
Movie night - this can be done twice every month. A roster should be done to ensure each person gets a chance to choose a movie of his/her choice. By doing this, no one is left out and the activity can help everyone to unwind. Afterwards a discussion can be done regarding the movie. 22
volved in making dinner. The kids can add colour to salads by arranging their favorite vegetates and fruits into various meals. According to Health Magazine “we know that eating together can boost achievement in children, lower the chance for eating disorders in girls, and lower depression rates in both girls and boys. “ It would also be a memory kids will remember when they become adults.
3
Create a chore chart this will help to ease the burden of one person having to do all the chores as well as it will help everyone to prioritize their schedules better.
4
Family activity calendar - create an activity calendar and place it in a location where everyone can see it, for instance the refrigerator. Let each member of the family suggest an activity he/she may be interested in participating with the family.
5
Fun family meals - instead of buying take-out, get the entire family in-
ABSTRACT HOME APRIL 2015 w w w . a mg t t . co m
6
Have an adventure -Join a hiking group and go on a hike together. This can be an enjoyable moment for everyone since it is believed that being in a new place increases dopamine (feel good hormone) and would be a memorable experience as a family.
7
Do not fight about money - Create a budget together (excluding the kids of course). Determine how much money both salaries are equated too. Discuss all outstanding bills and try to reduce this figure as much as possible. Subtract the expense from the monthly income. By dealing with these issues without getting kids involve, will help them
to know that their parents are in control of things.
8
Stick to the rules - set rules and enforce them. However kids should know the reason for these rules. Whether it is based or your own morals or values since social behaviour differ from each family. This will help avoid confusion between parents and their kids.
9
Be playful in your relationships - There is no need to be constantly uptight with your family. When kids see this side of you, you become more approachable to them and they feel as though they can share things with you. This therefore increases communication. Playfulness is also noted as a form of stress reliever.
10
Show affection - it is not fair to your family that you keep your feelings mustered inside. Give hugs, kisses or even a pat on the back to show appreciation. It will help to foster closeness between each other. Parents should also show affection to each other as often times, these simple gestures can help relationships to remain alive and necessary.
WARDROBE
POWDER ROOM
Fashion Fixes To Add Fab To Your Life Looking Your Best On Bad Days
W Beauty Tips For Before The Big Day
A
sk any bride-to-be and she will confess that she wants to look her very best on her wedding day. This does not mean that she should simply find the best makeup artiste available on the day. A good makeup artist can only place art on the canvas that you are. However, there are steps that can be taken on your own to prepare the canvas for the special occasion.
1
Prepare your skin before you even think about what makeup to wear for your wedding. Always start with good skincare. Whether you have good or bad skin, at least 4 weeks before your wedding you should have a good skincare regime in place for both morning and night.
2
Wear sunscreen under your makeup for outdoor weddings. Many ceremonies and photo sessions take place in bright sunlight, and if you skip the SPF, you could transform into a lobster as the night wears on.
3
Choose the right perfume before the wedding. It may not be the
first thing you think about when ticking off the beauty check points, but remember everyone will want to congratulate you on the day, so you need to make sure your scent fits the occasion.
4
Want to get rid of a smudge caused by a pimple? Apply a small volume of toothpaste, leave it for about 10 minutes so as to soak in, then rinse with tap water. Believe me this works.
5
No matter how perfect your complexion, it's still a good idea to visit a dermatologist. Apart from treating skin problems, your dermatologist could recommend pre-bridal cosmetic treatments that are suitable for you.
e all have those days when we need to get an extra push to get out of bed. It could be the Monday blues or just a hangover from your best friend’s birthday bash. You already look as if you were hit by a bus, there’s no need to look as if the bus ran you over. Despite how you feel, it is still important to try to look your best. First things first don’t pick up the first thing that catches your eye. Yes you want to draw the emphasis away from your face but there is a better way to do it. Pick an outfit that makes you look good and normal. When I say normal I mean that you want to wear something that’s current and fashionable. Today is not the day to try on that outfit that was given to you as a gift so many years ago. Currently there are so many different fashion trends available I am sure that you have at least one item of clothing that is in style. The traditional work suits although still worn, have seen great upgrades. People are choosing to break the tradition and mix and match their suits with some of the latest trends. You can do this by simply changing the shirt that you wear under your jacket. The Caribbean climate is warm so you can also wear some light and breezy fabrics rather than the heavier ones. Colour is a great way to enhance a person’s mood. Stay away from dark colours such as black and grey. Try going for the blues and warm cinnamon w w w . a m g tt. c o m
brown tones. These brighter colours help uplift the mood and take away from the fact that you may be a bit down. Darker colours tend to make you look a bit more depressed than you really are. So the best thing to do would be to stay away from them. If you must wear a dark outfit to work add some colour with your shoes. This lightens up the overall mood of your look. If you wear a standard uniform to work try perking it up with a broach or a scarf. These fashion accessories do a lot to improve the image of clothing. These fashion accessories come in many different styles and colours for you to choose from. Choose a style that works best for you and at the same time accentuates your clothing. Your can put away your ordinary pair of working shoes and bring out a different pair that is stylish and helps boost the outfit. Now that you have the correct clothing you would need to pay attention to your face. Spend a little extra time on your makeup today. The first thing to do would be to use a facial scrub to remove the dead skin cells. This would then reveal smoother glowing skin. Glowing skin looks fresh and healthy and sets the way for a good foundation. Pay special attention to the eyes. They may be puffy or have dark circles, apply the foundation to hide the dark circles. Use of a bronze or copper eye shadow as this helps lighten the eyes and makes a more profound impact. APRIL 2015
ABSTRACT HOME
23
MEDICINE CABINET
HOME GYM
Tips For Natural Hair Growth Without Medicine
T
he hair care industry has made a mint off of people who long for rich, strong, healthy hair. However, bad lifestyle choices and improper care are things which can be reversed and in so doing rectify poor hair growth. These tips may help. Consume the Right Diet A high protein diet, boosted by specific vitamins and minerals needed for hair growth is essential. Eggs, Beta-carotene in sweet potatoes, Salmon’s Omega 3’s and fruits like Avocado contribute to denser, healthier hair. Protect It During Sleep Never sleep with a tight ponytail or a tight braid, it definitely won’t help your hair grow faster and can even cause breakage of your hair and pain in your scalp. Make a loose ponytail instead. And the second tip for an efficient night hair care is this – try to sleep on a silk pillowcase; it won’t cause friction and it’s much kinder to your hair, than cotton pillow covers. And, by the way, a silk pillowcase is not only beneficial for your hair, but it also can help prevent facial wrinkles from appearing. What a wonder is this silk: healthy and shiny hair, plus wrinkle-free skin on your face! Just perfect! Regular Scalp Stimulation Massage your scalp every time you shampoo your hair. Do it
24
gently. Using your fingers, massage your head for about a minute or two, push and move the skin around your head, and it will stimulate the blood flow in your scalp and help your hair grow faster. You can also brush your hair every morning and evening for 1 or 2 minutes to stimulate circulation in your scalp. Vinegar Rinses Rinse with apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is a great way to remove the dirt, grime and pollution that can accumulate on your hair, as well as strip away the residue that is left by hair products. Apple cider vinegar can not only help boost your hair growth, but also, being a natural detangling and shine improving treatment, it can tremendously change the appearance of your locks, of course, for the better. Hair becomes softer, shinier, stronger and looks healthier! Add two tablespoons of vinegar to a litre of water and rinse your hair with this homemade healthy conditioner; use this treatment as the final step of your shampooing/conditioning routine. If you aren’t a big fan of vinegar odor, then add a couple of drops of your favorite essential oil into your apple cider vinegar rinse, such as rose essential oil, for example (or you can mix lemon juice with water, in the same proportion, instead of using apple cider vinegar).
ABSTRACT HOME APRIL 2015 w w w . a mg t t . co m
Managing Male Fitness
T
here are few things that are as rewarding as the results that come from maintaining a proper diet and workout regimen. That doesn’t mean this is easy to achieve. It takes a lot of hard work. If you need help reaching your goals, these tips may assist you. Use Friends To Stay Motivated One of the keys to sticking to any fitness or diet plan is motivation. You need the drive to make yourself work out. Just thinking about looking your absolute best when naked should be enough. However, it hardly ever is. The best way to stay motivated is by working out with others. That doesn’t mean being around random people at the gym. Work out with a friend while keeping a target date. If you can do it for Carnival, you can definitely do it throughout the year. Schedule exercise meetings While friends can motivate you, other engagements still pose a threat to your commitment. Make exercise appointments for the next month in your work diary or Outlook so nothing can interfere. Alternatively arrange workout sessions
with fellow employees or clients when possible in place of normal meetings. It’s a clever way to multi-task. Kit Up It’s easy to start making excuses not to exercise if you’re missing any of the essentials – home equipment, gym membership, kit bag, even a towel. Make sure you have everything you need before you start. This will also help you assume an ‘exercise identity’, so that if you look and feel the part you’re more likely to play the part. But avoid Spandex – you are not Lance Armstrong. Be Smart It makes no sense formulating a fantasy workout when you want real results. It is imperative to set specific, measurable, agreed upon, realistic, timeframed, exciting and recorded goals. You will be more likely to succeed than those who simply ‘do their best’. You wouldn’t go to work and say, ‘I’ll do as much of my job as I can over the next few months and see what happens.’ Don’t do it in the gym either. In the same way, be sure to set a proper time frame leading to a specific date to get those realistic results you crave.
GARAGE
PETS
Are You Maximizing Your Garage’s Potential?
G
arages aren’t just for cars anymore. In fact, many people hardly even have cars in their garages. It doubles as a tool shed or storage room most times. However, a garage can be used for other things as well. Here are some ways to maximize your garage’s worth. Bring the Gym Home People today are making an honest effort to lead healthier lifestyles. Unfortunately, a membership at a gym is not always within the budget. So why not convert the garage into a private gym? If you have an open garage like most Trinis, consider enclosing it. You can even use see through screens so you can jog in the privacy of a home gym while enjoying the great outdoors. The Man Cave There is no place better for the ideal “Man Cave” than the garage. After all, it gives the man a place he and his friends can get together and have fun without worrying about making messes or bothering anyone else. More to the point, a “Man Cave” is a place a man can retreat to and have his version of that all-important “me” time. The Home Office For those who are self-employed, a garage makes for the ideal 26
home office since it’s somewhat apart from the living area and the home atmosphere will not enter the workplace. Just make sure you have access to your home necessities including Wi-Fi, a printer, and a desk. A mini fridge with drinks can also help relieve some stress while trying to make deadlines. Teenager hangs out It’s nice to be the house where the teens hang around, because you can keep half an eye on what’s going on. On the other hand, having a bunch of rowdy guys and gals in your house can give you a headache. Have your kids set up an extra television and a video game console in the garage and let them use one of your garage cabinets for bags of chips and bottles of soft drink. If your teens enjoy making music, you could store the drum set and speakers out there, too. This allows them to have their fun without making too much noise in the living areas of the house.
ABSTRACT HOME APRIL 2015 w w w . a mg t t . co m
Understanding Pet Play Pens
P
lay pens are portable fences that allow puppies sufficient space to romp around. They can be used with equally good results regardless of whether they are placed in a living room or outdoor yard. Most play pens offer sufficient space to accommodate a dog's food and water bowls, a few toys and a comfortable dog bed. Play pens come in a variety of materials, such as plastic, wire, wood and canvas. Play pens designed for outdoor use are similar to a dog run, even though smaller, and are usually made of sturdy materials such as plastic or wire. Several offer the option to be covered to prevent the dog from escaping. Indoor play pens are generally in plastic or soft-sided so they are easy to fold, transport and store. Both indoor and outdoor dog pens often offer the option of joining panels together for
the purpose of creating larger play areas. If you are a new puppy owner, a dog play pen may turn out to be your best friend. Allowing a safe space for your pampered pooch to frolic, a play pen allows you to do chores around your home without worrying about finding half of your home destroyed by a teething puppy. A dog play pen may also be a great management tool for those times you may need to separate your puppy or dog from guests, children or other pets. One of the biggest advantages of play pens is that they can be used like crates. However, since they offer more space and freedom, play pens may be a great alternative for dogs who are not particularly fond of crates. Outdoor dog play pens may also be quite useful for dog owners who own yards lacking a fenced section.
TRAVEL
N
How To Get Through Your First Overseas Trip
ot everyone was born to live beyond the skies; Flight Attendants and Pilots are a chosen few. Even with the increase in terrorist attacks and threats made towards airlines or the increasing possibility of a plane crash, statistics show that direct travel is still by far the safest of them all. For first time flyers, there may be some anxiety that is simply fear of the unknown or more than likely the countless “horror” stories that persons who travel frequently have been sharing with you over the years, has made flying seem a risky adventure. But, as you take your first commute, whether by land, sea or air, you begin to realize that it’s not as scary as it seems. One thing to remember though: safety is of utmost importance when travelling and the risks become even greater when travelling alone or with younger children. But, fear not; try these tips when travelling for a safer journey.
1
Get a passport. Seems simple, but some people believe that they can commute freely throughout the Caribbean without the use of a passport…..no. It is Government issued and gives you the authorization to leave the country, with certain guidelines. VISA’s are also needed when travelling to certain countries according to which one of the Caribbean islands you are departing from. 28
Find out the necessary documents needed before planning a trip.
2
Make the necessary phone calls. After your finances have been dealt with, let relatives or close friends know where you are going and the length of your stay. This ensures that there is one other person who knows exactly where you are or should have been if disaster strikes. For example, in the event of a kidnapping the police would have an existing lead on your whereabouts or in the event of a natural disaster rescue teams would know how many persons to search for.
3
Do your research. Even the safest countries in the world record a mugging or murder report every year; all areas in any country are not created equal. Learn about the areas to stay away from, the areas to visit and why travelling to a certain place at night are a big ‘no no’.
4
Keep all luggage (Carry-on and suitcases) close to you. A thief may be on the lookout for someone who is idling when handling their bags rather than someone who may keep their luggage tightly at their side. They may be reluctant to mug the more meticulous of the two.
ABSTRACT HOME APRIL 2015 w w w . a mg t t . co m
5
Never take off your jacket or put down envelopes with important documents anywhere. Of course there are exceptions to the rule, such as when using the washroom, but what a surprise there will be on both you and the Flight Attendant’s faces when she asks you for your ticket and you reach in your pocket and it’s not there. Try using a money belt or strap/ handle bag; this way the bag never leaves your person.
6
Always be aware of your surroundings. Never doubt your instinct; if something doesn’t ‘feel’ right then get away from the situation quickly. Be wary of the people around you. Don’t be afraid to look over your shoulder at the person behind you. Ignore their stares if they are uncomfortable with you staring at them; It is always better to be safe than sorry.
7
Because of the rise of terrorism in certain countries, and the massive attacks that occur on many public transportation vehicles (buses and trains) Governments are encouraging citizens to use this type of transportation during non-peak hours. Walking and/ or taking taxis and car is heavily encouraged but caution should be used when using these alternatives as listed above.
8
When using public transportation, try organizing the fare before you enter. This way thieves would not be aware of the location of your purse in your handbag or even how much money there is inside.
9
Don’t be ashamed to use a map. Some of us are adventure seekers who seek the thrill of venturing out into the unknown. No problem; just be wise about it. Use a map and remember landmarks; in the event that you get lost you’ll better remember where a church or gas station is located rather than a hot-dog stand.
10
Fight Jetlag. Try not to spend all day in the hotel room sleeping. If you need to rest, take one immediately after you land, then take a walk in the streets. After that, sleep in the night-time and commute during the day. This helps your body get accustomed to the country’s time zone and will leave you more alert and ready to handle any situation. In addition to these simple guidelines, others can be explored to ensure safety for the first time-traveler. There is no basic set of rules but with this start one can be better prepared to face the unknown and can ensure an enjoyable, incident-free journey.
Abstract Home Is Published By Abstract Media Group, Premium Commercial Complex, San Juan, Trinidad, W.I. • Tel: (868) 638 1156/9 • Fax: (868) 638 1160. Printed By The Office Authority - Printing Division And Distributed By AMG