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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e may not have four seasons like those temperate countries, but we have two distinct seasons in our tropical climate which deserve different décor treatments. These tips will help you get through this dry season. Brighten Up Warm weather décor is all about colour. Dry season décor can either be used to reflect the outdoors or counter it in extreme circumstances. Most times, the dry season shows bright buds blooming, colorful birds chirping, and the sky is usually a crisp, clear blue. If you want your abode to reflect this sort of scene, move your decorating scheme towards a brighter palette. Sometimes, the dry season can be very harsh (like the one we’re experiencing currently). This leaves the outdoors looking very brown and dusty. Adding colour can counter that. Start by switching some of your regular pieces. Textiles should be the first thing to be replaced. Change out your curtains, pillows, tablecloths, bedspreads or rugs. Or look to your wall and tabletop decor to add a pop of color with a new vase or picture frames. Switching out any of these pieces is very affordable — and totally temporary. Go with a trendy, bold color during the dry months, and then switch back to more neutral pieces when the weather turns cool again. Add Some Flower Power Another easy way to spruce up
Dry Season Decorating
Techniques dry season decor is to use flowers and foliage. Fresh blooms add even more color to your space, and as an added bonus, they freshen things up with a beautiful scent. If you can’t commit to flowers because you’re worried about watering them, or you want a more permanent decoration, go for a tropical flair in your space by purchasing a fake bamboo plant, banana plant or rubber tree. These pieces make a big impact and infuse a lush, summery green into your apartment. Hang a Funky Mirror While there is no shortage of natural light in the drier months, extra light makes a room look even more inviting. Here is where mirrors come in. Mirrors are both wall art and a lighting technique. Find a mirror with character, and hang
it in the corner of a room that doesn’t get much natural light. The mirror will bounce light back into the room to illuminate the space more fully. If you really want to brighten a dark corner, consider placing a floor mirror in the dimmest area of a room for a flood of natural light. The update helps your room look invitingly warm.
Drape Sheer Window Treatments We spoke briefly about curtains in our first tip, but we cannot focus enough on such a pivotal part of the décor. Take down your thick drapes and replace them with sheer fabrics for a breezy and bright update to your window treatments. Select a lace, silk, organza, or nylon fabric in a light color, and purchase enough to generously drape the fabric around your existing curw w w . a m g tt. c o m
tain rod. You need to wrap the curtain around the middle of the rod four to eight times, and then pull the fabric until it hangs loosely and gracefully from the rod, collecting at both ends in a puddle on the floor. Draping sheer fabric instead of sewing curtains allows you to only finish the ends of the fabric, which you can do by ironing hem tape to the bottom of the sheer for a finished look. MAY 2015
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LIVING QUARTERS
Signs Of A Termite Infestation
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iny termites are a destructive force that can leave even the largest homes in shambles if they are left to thrive. Termites will quickly eat through untreated wooden surfaces in your home’s exterior or interior and it is important to spot an infestation before it is too late. Here are some signs. Hollow-sounding wood: Termites prefer to be in dark, humid environments, so they do not typically feed on the surface of wood, where they would be visible to the human eye. In fact, the wood’s surface might appear smooth, even if termites are inflicting damage. If wood sounds hollow when tapped, it may be because termites are eating the wood from the inside out. Groups of winged insects (“swarmers”) or discarded wings: Reproductive termites
called swarmers take flight to create new colonies. If you see a swarm of insects or groups of discarded wings, call a termite specialist to inspect. Cracked or distorted paint on wood surfaces: Swarming dry wood termites can enter through openings smaller than the edge of a cent, so monitor and seal any cracks in the home’s foundation and near roof siding, vents and windows. Mud tubes on exterior walls: Subterranean termites build
mud tubes on surfaces, such as a home’s foundation, to provide moisture while they are searching for food. Store mulch and wood chips away from the home to avoid creating moisture-rich habitats for termites to survive and thrive. Frass: Dry wood termites produce wood-colored droppings called frass as they eat their way through infested wood. Keep gutters, downspouts and crawl spaces free of debris and cellulose materials to prevent food sources for termites.
Treating A Termite Infestation
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e know what termites are and the damage they can cause. However, you are not powerless in the battle against these destructive insects. Termite infestations can be treated naturally by simply inhibiting the areas in which they thrive. The first thing to consider would be to expose the area to sunlight. For a fact, termites are extremely susceptible to sunlight and actually die off when they they’re exposed to it and its consequent heat. It can help to clear out any covering vegetation around areas where a subterranean colony has taken up residence. An even more effective solution might be to dig up the targeted section and expose the termites directly to sunlight. For termite infested furniture, it may help to air the pieces of furniture outside in the bright sunABSTRACT HOME MAY 2015 2
light during the hottest part of the day. This can kill off any termites that may be hiding inside the furniture and out of sight. Secondly, try eliminating Moisture. For the most part, it is known that termites thrive and multiply in areas that are rich in water moisture. Keeping this in mind, you can ensure that the interior of the room or building is kept dry and that any moisture prone areas are repaired. It will also be helpful to look around the perimeter w w w . a mg t t . co m
of the building and ensure that there are no water pools or water leakages in contact with the foundation. Of course, there are other less natural methods of dealing with termites. Two major types of termite treatment exist – termiticides, which kill termites, and termite repellents. Repellents were commonly chosen in the past, but termiticides have proven more effective at eliminating termites quickly. A homeowner
should discuss the options with a pest control company before deciding on the best route. Effective termite control requires a deep application of termiticide to the soil around a home’s foundation. The termiticide must penetrate many feet below the surface because termites are subterranean creatures that tunnel deep below the ground to travel between their nests and a home. It can take hundreds of gallons of termiticide to fully treat a home. Pest control companies can also use termite baits, sometimes in conjunction with a deep-soil application of a liquid termiticide. The baits are placed in the ground around the foundation and deliver a slowacting poison combined with a food source to attract the termites. Baits may also be placed over mud tubes where termites have been observed.
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Call an RBC mobile mortgage specialist, visit any RBC Royal Bank branch or go online at rbc.com/caribbean. We’ll meet you almost anywhere!
Central/Tobago
East
North
Andel Ramnath 727-2790
Alloysius Gonzales 776-0927
Tige Gilalta 795-9228
Corey Roopnarine 467-3336
Dwayne Hunte 795-9469
Carlene Joseph-Seerattan 795-9218
*Up to 2% of your mortgage value in closing costs (Attorney’s Fees, Stamp Duty, Mortgage Indemnity Premium) covered by us (not exceeding $30,000) - Campaign runs from May 18th, 2015 to July 31st, 2015 - All persons who get approved during the campaign period for residential/ land financing will be eligible for a chance to win the grand prize of $100,000 - Prize money must be used towards household items, education or RBC investment - Special conditions apply. Subject to normal lending criteria - The cost of borrowing will be made available upon application - Promotion approved by NLCB. ®/TM Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence.
South Rodney Patterson 467-2825
Terrence Dhoray 795-9211
Schonnel Dev Persad 702-9809
Marisa Manbodh-Piggot 467-3367
Avalene Lee Foon 788-7630
LIVING QUARTERS
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Disaster Preparedness Quiz
mergencies come in many forms, and they may require anything from a brief absence from your home to permanent evacuation. Each type of disaster requires different measures to keep you and your family safe. How many of these measures are you equipped for? Read this quiz and find out. 1. A Family Emergency Plan should NOT include which of the following? 1. Information about the emergency plan at your children’s schools 2. The name and phone number of an out-of-town contact person 3. A list of important phone numbers, including those of doctors and emergency services 4. Arrangements for each person in the family to be at a specific land line telephone at a specific time 5. A central meeting spot outside your home and one outside your neighborhood in case you need to leave the area The answer is 4. The arrangements for each family member to be at a specific land line telephone at a specific time may not be possible or useful under many conditions, as people may have to relocate or evacuate entirely during a disaster. Families should
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create an emergency plan and carry important information with them so they know how to get in touch and get back together during an emergency. Finally, both telephone land lines and cellular phones may be overloaded or out of service during or after an emergency, so knowing in advance where to meet is important. 2. When preparing for a possible emergency situation, it's best to think first about the basics of survival. Which of the following is NOT considered a necessity for survival? 1. Drinking water 2. Food 3. Clean air 4. Comfortable shoes 5. Warmth The answer is 4. While sturdy protective shoes are important during and after a disaster, they are not necessary for survival. 3. Which of the following items should NOT be included in a basic emergency supply kit? 1. Water (one gallon per person per day for drinking and sanitation) 2. Non-perishable foods 3. Battery-operated radio 4. Dust mask or cotton fabrics 5. Whistle 6. Important family documents 7. Candles 8. Flashlight and extra batteries
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9. Manual can opener 10. Plastic sheeting and duct tape 11. Garbage bags and plastic ties 12. Wrench or pliers 13. First aid kit 14. Unique family needs such as infant formula or prescription medicines The answer is 7. All of the items listed above should be included in a basic emergency supply kit, except for candles. Candles pose a serious fire hazard, and it is safer to use a battery-operated flashlight or lantern. 4. Which of the following is NOT a recommended action for emergency preparedness? 1. Creating a family emergency plan 2. Stockpiling antibiotics 3. Becoming knowledgeable about types of potential emergencies and responses 4. Getting an emergency supplies kit The answer is 2. Stockpiling antibiotics is not recommended because it is impossible to predict the exact nature of a biological emergency and there is not one antibiotic that effectively treats all possible bioterrorist-related sicknesses. In addition, inappropriate use of antibiotics can potentially lead to dangerous side effects and also contributes to the problem of many organisms developing antibiotic resistance.
5. Which steps should pet owners take when preparing their pets for emergencies? 1. Assemble an emergency supply kit with enough pet food and water for three days, as well as medications, medical records, leashes and ID tags. Develop an emergency plan that considers the pets’ needs and make a list of animal shelters or veterinary hospitals in other cities where a pet may need to be temporarily sheltered in the case of an evacuation. 2. Plan with neighbors, friends or relatives to make sure that someone is available to care for or evacuate pets if you are unable to do so. 3. To alert rescue workers during a fire or other emergency, place “Pets Inside” stickers on doors or windows, including information on the number and types of pets. 4. All of the above The answer is 4. Pet owners should take all of the above steps when preparing their pets for emergencies. Now that you know where you stand where natural disaster preparedness is concerned, put it all into practice and put safety first.
LIVING QUARTERS
Choosing A Water Heater
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aving a water heater is not merely a luxury anymore, but a commodity. It saves the hassle of having to manually heat up water for kitchen, laundry and bath use and frankly, many people cannot function without a water heart in the house. The size of your family, the utilities in your area and the space available for your water heater all play a role in determining how to choose the best water heater. It's important to keep the following things in mind: Storage tank water heaters are the most common type and the best water heaters to buy. These units have an insulated tank where water is heated and stored until it's needed. They're available in electric, liquid propane (LP) and natural gas models. Natural gas and LP water heaters normally use less
energy and are less expensive to operate than electric models of the same size. • Storage tank water heaters are designated by the amount of water they hold in gallons. Tank size is one of the major considerations when purchasing one of these water heaters. • Another consideration for storage tank water heaters is recovery rate — the number of gallons of water they can heat in an hour. The greater your demand for hot water, the higher recovery rate you need. • When you buy a water heater, look at the energy efficiency and yearly operating costs of a water heater before you decide which one is right for your needs. • Know the dimensions of the space where your water heat-
er resides. If your hot water use increases and you need to upgrade to a larger tank size, it may be necessary to run plumbing to a different area so the new, larger unit will fit. Tankless or on-demand water heaters don't store hot water; they heat water as it passes through a series of coils in the unit. Since the unit only heats water as you use it, a tankless heater is usually more energy-efficient than a traditional storage tank water heater. They're available in electric, LP and natural gas models. A tankless unit can provide only a limited volume of hot water. Most tankless units can provide up to 3.5 gallons of heated water per minute. These units are a good choice for anyone whose demand doesn't typically call for hot water at more than two points at a time.
Choosing Furniture Fabric
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urniture makes your home finer. In fact, a house is largely uninhabitable without some form of furniture. Apart from the functionality of the furniture there are aspects of aestheticism which govern your furniture fabric choice. This is a guide to helping you make a decision beyond the basic look of the fabric. Your choice of furniture fabric may rely on several things. For instance, you may choose a particular material for its fade resistance. This is important especially if furniture will be placed in a room that gets plenty of sunlight, or will be placed close to a window. The same goes for mildew resistance. Look for fabric that is mildew resistant if you live in a humid climate that fosters mildew. If your family has a history of allergies, consider fab6
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ric such as microfiber because it is lint free and does not attract dust. With that said, pet friendly materials are options for those who may have issues with fur. Therefore, fabric such as silk, or any fabric with lots of texture should be avoided. Notwithstanding there are several other more important factors which inform your choice of furniture upholstery. For instance, the amount of traffic in a room would determine to how durable your furniture fabric would be. For places that are subject to heavy wear and tear every day, choose tough, tightly woven fabrics for pieces. High thread counts will indicate more tightly woven fabrics, which is a sign of better ability to sustain wear and tear. Remember also to choose fabrics that offer stain resistance if furniture will be exposed to
constant direct sunlight. Another important consideration to note is the fabric should complement the style of the furniture and add to its character. You will also want to be aware of the room size as you don't want to choose an overwhelming pattern for a small space. Make sure the fabric fits the mood of the room. Colour is usually the main criteria for choosing furniture, but don't choose a fabric just for its color. Be sure to use something fitting for the room and atmosphere. The range of fabric choices is stupendous. Cotton, leather, linen, silk, wool, ramie, hemp, acrylic, microfiber, nylon, rayon and vinyl all come to mind easily, while there are several modern blends available as well. Finding the right upholstery fabric just depends on what the buyer plans to achieve.
HOME OFFICE
10 Financial Questions You Should Ask Yourself Today
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ou have the ability to find the answer to any question. The key is to ask the right questions to get the right answers. If you're constantly asking yourself, "Why was I so stupid to put myself in this debt?” your brain is going to give you an answer that suits the question that you ask. The answer is more likely to be like this “because you are stupid”. The thing to remember is that your brain will keep working on your question subconsciously until you get an answer. We've all had the experience of waking up in the middle of the night with the answer to something that you were thinking about earlier in the day. It is as if the answer to the question suddenly hits you out of nowhere. The quality of the answer is directly related to the quality of the question. A good quality question should go like this, "What action can I take today to start reducing my debt?" Your brain will ponder this until it returns an answer, a good answer at that. The answer may sound something like this, "Get financially organized”. Getting financially organised is very important to each and every one of us. It helps with 8
the achievement of our lifetime goals and plans. Without financial security we may find that living life from pay cheque to pay cheque becomes harsh and disheartening. Reflecting on our childhood dreams of owning the house with the white picket fence and driving a fancy car can put into perspective what we expect to get out of our lives. Financial security begins with reflection and by asking oneself some crucial questions. Here are 10 questions that you should ask yourself today. I am confident that the answers will guide you to a better financial life:
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What action(s) can I take today to start reducing my debt? This question can help you take the steps that you need to in order to start reducing your debt such as paying off your credit card or refinancing a current loan.
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How can I start making more money within the next 5 days? Think of the opportunities that are currently available to you such as a part time job or turning one of your hobbies into a money making business.
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What can I do to start saving money? Resist the urge to buy those shoes which you don’t need; try taking your lunch to work daily.
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What did I learn about finances today? Take into account everything that you spent for the day. This will help you analyze what was needed and what was not.
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What day, this week, can I commit to going to the library and researching my financial options? Research your financial options, go to banks and get brochures, read up about what is going on in your economy, pay attention to stock prices. By doing this you will be able to get a better return on your investment.
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How can I use my computer to improve my life financially? Many people are currently starting up online businesses; you can use the internet to advertise some of the services that you have to offer.
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How can I double my income within one year? Have a list of things that you hope to achieve in a year. It
may be finishing up your degree or working towards getting a promotion.
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What dreams did I have when I was younger that I should revisit today that would improve my life? By paying attention to your goals and dreams you would be motivated to work towards accomplishing them.
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Do I need to buy this? When shopping place items in lists of needs and wants, this will help you to decide what is important.
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How can I enjoy the process of working to reduce my debt? Find ways of saving money that is not hard on you, set up standing orders and have encouraging notes stuck up where you can see them every day. When the process is enjoyable you can enjoy the journey.
It is as simple as this, by asking these questions you are able to see what you need to do to get financially stable. It will help you get on track with your finances all the while helping to reduce your debt.
ELEGANT IDEAS
Make Big Rooms Work
A high ceiling is a great way to add spaciousness and grandeur to your floor plan.
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ELEGANT IDEAS
This open floor plan allows for the appreciation of intricate architecture while merging kitchen, dining room and more. 12
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ELEGANT IDEAS
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ELEGANT IDEAS
This large bedroom facilitates additional furniture accessories like this table and chair.
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KITCHEN
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Poultry Preparation And Handling Tips
et’s face it! Chicken and poultry are by far the most popular meats on a world scale. That does not mean everyone has a grasp of the proper methods of preparation and handling of poultry. Just like meat, fish or any animal-based food product, raw or undercooked chicken can carry certain bacteria like salmonella and if the proper precautions are not taken when handling meats, you and your family can end up very sick. Here are some poultry prep tips. First off, always wash your hands with hot soapy water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food. It is also a good bet to keep some hand sanitizer around the kitchen as well. Refrigerate uncooked poultry as soon as you get it home. Use a refrigerator thermometer to make sure your fridge stays between 35 and 40 degrees F. If you are not going to use the meat within 48 hours, freeze it. Once it is properly packaged,
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you won’t have to worry about freezer burn. It is best to thaw frozen meat, poultry, or fish in the re-
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frigerator at 40 °F. Do NOT thaw raw meat, poultry, or fish at room temperature or in warm water. Meats defrosted in the
microwave should be cooked immediately after thawing. Always cook chicken until well done. It is not advisable to eat chicken at medium or rare doneness. If using a meat thermometer, make sure the internal temperature is 170°F for bonein pieces and 165°F for boneless pieces and for a whole chicken it should reach 180°F. If you do not have a meat thermometer you may also check doneness by piercing the thickest part of the chicken and all juices should run clear not pink. Wash your cutting boards, knives, plates, utensils, countertops and any other surfaces with warm, soapy water after they come into contact with uncooked poultry. To remove the scent and also add additional sterilization to these surfaces, rub them with lime and rinse after washing. Also, be sure to never place food on the same plate or cutting board that previously held raw meat, poultry or seafood unless the cutting board has been thoroughly washed.
RECIPES
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Scintillating Soup Recipes
here is nothing like a sumptuous soup to warm up your soul and fill your belly. Cowheel, Pigtail and Corn soups rule the Trinidad and Tobago soup landscape, but that does not mean we must remain exempt from trying our hand and taste buds at other choices. Here are some creamy and equally tasty alternatives to try at home.
CARROT GINGER CREME Ingredients 2 tablespoons canola oil 1 medium onion, chopped 2 pounds carrots, cut into medium dice 2 teaspoons ground ginger 4 cups vegetable broth 2 cups half-and-half Salt and pepper to taste Directions Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Cook and stir onion until translucent and tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in carrots, ginger, and vegetable broth, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until carrots are tender. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Transfer to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Return to soup pot, add half and half, and heat until warmed through. Season with salt and pepper, and serve. 18
CREAMY CHICKEN AND WILD RICE SOUP Ingredients 4 cups chicken broth 2 cups water 2 cooked, boneless chicken breast halves, shredded 1 (4.5 ounce) package quick cooking long grain and wild rice with seasoning packet 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 3/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 cup butter 2 cups heavy cream Directions In a large pot over medium heat, combine broth, water and chicken. Bring just to boiling, then stir in rice, reserving seasoning
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packet. Cover and remove from heat. In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper and flour. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in contents of seasoning packet until mixture is bubbly. Reduce heat to low, then stir in flour mixture by tablespoons, to form a roux. Whisk in cream, a little at a time, until fully incorporated and smooth. Cook until thickened, 5 minutes. Stir cream mixture into broth and rice. Cook over medium heat until heated through, 10 to 15 minutes.
RICH AND CREAMY TOMATO BASIL Ingredients 4 tomatoes - peeled, seeded and diced 4 cups tomato juice 14 leaves fresh basil 1 cup heavy whipping cream 1/2 cup butter Salt and pepper to taste Directions Place tomatoes and juice in a stock pot over medium heat. Simmer for 30 minutes. Puree the tomato mixture along with the basil leaves, and return the puree to the stock pot. Place the pot over medium heat, and stir in the heavy cream and
butter. Season with salt and pepper. Heat, stirring until the butter is melted. Do not boil.
CHEESEBURGER SOUP Ingredients 1/2 pound ground beef 3/4 cup chopped onion 3/4 cup shredded carrots 3/4 cup chopped celery 1 teaspoon dried basil 1 teaspoon dried parsley 4 tablespoons butter 3 cups chicken broth 4 cups cubed potatoes 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 2 cups cubed Cheddar cheese 1 1/2 cups milk 1/4 cup sour cream Directions In a large pot, melt 1 tablespoon butter or margarine over medium heat: cook and stir vegetables and beef , until beef is brown. Stir in basil and parsley. Add broth and potatoes. Bring to a boil, then simmer until potatoes are tender, about 10-12 minutes. Melt the remainder of butter and stir in flour. Add the milk, stirring until smooth. Gradually add milk mixture to the soup, stirring constantly. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to simmer. Stir in cheese. When cheese is melted, add sour cream and heat through. Do not boil.
BRIDAL
Modernize Your Matrimony
Check Out These Unconventional Wedding Ideas
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t’s 2015 and while divorce rates are skyrocketing, that is only possible because there are still tons of people who are obsessed with the sacrament of marriage. Marriage is a time honoured tradition, but it does not have to be traditional. Make a difference on your wedding day with these unique ideas. Cut Down The Bridal Party Bridal parties often put a burden on friends. Why not have a smaller and easier to manage bridal party? Nowadays, the majority of brides and grooms are asking only a maid of honor and best man to stand up with them or going without a bridal party altogether. Many professional wedding planners couldn’t be happier about this. Choreographing the processional is sometimes like timing out the Independence Day parade with eight to ten attendants, but now brides don't want the hassle of listening to their friends complain about the dress and shoes they have to purchase or people bickering over their role in the party. Rile Up your Reception You can do something funky to liven up your reception without much effort. At your reception,
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instead of naming each table a number like everyone else normally does, name it a song instead! Then have your DJ announce at the beginning of the reception that when your table's song plays, the entire table has to get up and dance! It's a great and unique way to get everyone out on the dance floor! As an alternative, try a wedding invitation with song requests, so that you won’t have to give your DJ a list of songs that you hope your guests won’t hate. Plus, everyone can get their own little tune in there, from the kids to the grandparents. Genius! Have Fun With Flowers What about switching up the floral traditions? Though this goes against the things every woman is supposed to love, maybe you're not a fan of flowers. That's totally fine! Find something you love instead and
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create a bouquet out of that. For example, one bride made a bouquet out of butterflies and it looked gorgeous! Plus if you make a bouquet out of something non-perishable, you can have it as a keepsake from your big day! If not, you can have flowers, but go out-of-the-box with freshly cut flowers. Brides today love the ‘just-picked’ and looser feel and look to their bouquet. Personalization Brides and grooms are looking to add their own tastes and personal mark on every aspect of their wedding and are doing so in more creative ways. One way brides are adding a personal touch to their wedding-day look is adorning their hairstyle with a flower and textural element, such as a feather. When it comes to their attire, brides have the choice to accent their wedding dress with everything from belts and sashes to bright and bold colors. And while grooms and groomsmen may still wear a classic tuxedo or suit, they're accessorizing with colorful or themed socks and a pocket square. Where entertainment is concerned, couples are choosing genre specific bands for cocktail hour, dining, and dancing music.
Keep The Guests Involved Take the traditional guestbook well-wishes to the next level with a scrapbook that collects guest’s best marriage memories, and their hopes for yours. Set out Polaroid cameras on tables so guests can capture their favorite moments, and leave it up to them if they keep the shots or leave them for you to have. Organize a silent auction where all proceeds go to a charity of the couple’s choice in lieu of wedding gifts. Have a table where guests can decorate postcards, and self-address them so you can use them as thank-you cards. Have A Dessert Buffet Bring in 20 different sweets like chocolate-covered strawberries, banana fosters, and creme brulee. Talk to your caterer for clever ways to decorate tables and present mini desserts. Your family can join in the fun; ask your best friend's mother to make her famous brownies or your aunt to make those pecan delights. A dessert buffet encourages mingling and ensures getting people off their seats and closer to the dance floor. If you still can't pass on the multitiered confection, box the individual cake slices and distribute as favors.
FAMILY
Breakfast, Brunch And Beyond:
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Ways To Celebrate Your Mom In Style
other’s Day may have come and gone, but as long as your mom is still around there is reason to celebrate. Show her that you love and cherish her by taking her for a treat that you both will remember for a lifetime. If you are short on suggestions, try these on for size.
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Breakfast and Brunch: Having a scrumptious meal with your mom is always a treat for you both-good food and bonding time. There are a number of options to suit your pocket from Café del Mar in Chaguaramas, Buffet breakfast at the Hyatt or Hilton, Dianne’s Tea House, Brunch at Chaud or Normandie. Make sure to call ahead to see if reservations are needed.
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The Getaway: Plan a perfect day or weekend for your mom, to Tobago or Maracas Beach. Be sure to organise all the meals, you don’t want her doing anything on her mini vacation. Plan fun, competitive games and activities (with prizes). Invite your siblings and her other loved ones for fun-filled family time. 22
groups all put on plays throughout the year and there are always early bird and couples specials to look out for.
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An Evening at the Boardwalk in Chaguaramas: Take your mom out in the evening. It’s up to you if you want to invite her family and friends. It’s always bustling with activity on weekends. There’s lot to do there…a stroll along the coast, lying on the lawn, sitting on the bench relaxing, paddle boating. No need to prepare food; make use of the food court and ice cream stalls.
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Know your Country Road Trip: Does your mom like nature and sightseeing? She might not have been to all those exciting places right here in T&T. Plan a picnic spread that Ina Garten would be jealous of and surprise your mom by taking her on a country tour. Take lots of selfies and she will remember that day for a long time.
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Mother/Daughter Spa Day: Instead of getting your mom a gift wrapped Spa package, why not book a day when you both can enjoy being pampered together? Many spas offer mother/daughter packages that include complimentary
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glasses of wine and lots of time to chat and bond.
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An Evening Play: Crazy Catholic, Raymond Choo Kong and Associates, Richard Ragoobarsingh and his team and other theatre
Shopping Spree: If your mom is like mine, she loves to shop till she drops. Start early and take her to the mall or her favourite shopping arena and give her a sum to spend. Let her window shop, try things on, marvel at household products. Then treat her to a nice lunch.
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Dinner: Let her get dressed up and take her to a fancy restaurant, with food options that you know she will like. If she is adventurous, take her for sushi.
WARDROBE
POWDER ROOM
Inexpensive Tips To Reverse The Signs Of Aging
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t’s such a simple process yet year after year, women world-wide spend millions of dollars on facials, skin creams and new-age cosmetic procedures. Why? To reverse the signs of aging. The cosmetic surgery industry is booming and pharmaceutical companies are reaping the rewards of high product sales as men and women flock to the stores to buy their latest products, as shown in the advertisements on the television. But the easiest and cheapest ways to look younger starts with you, your body and what you put into it. Try these for younger looking skin.
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Exercise regularly. It almost always boils down to maintaining a good exercise regime. Nothing too strict or rigid; maybe an early morning jog or an after-work run for about 30 minutes will do the trick. Cycling and swimming are also good cardio exercises and can burn fat. To fully tighten the skin, alternate this exercise with strength exercises about 2 or 3 times a week.
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Maintain a healthy diet. One that is rich with fruits, vegetables and lots of fluids which will enhance the body’s normal functions. No one said that you could not indulge in cheesecake or ice cream at least once a week, but stay away from foods that have high sugar content as they are rich in calories.
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Remember to take your vitamins. Particularly Vita-
mins A, C and E: A is important as it aids in the normal functioning of the immune system, C is important as it aids in combining collagen which is an important component of skin, bone, blood vessels and ligaments and E is the beauty vitamin, which contains anti-oxidants that free our body from free radicals.
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Start or develop your skin-care process. A gentle face wash or moisturizer can be used in the morning, evening or during the day depending on skin-type or the skin’s needs. An anti-aging cream is not necessary depending on your age and skin needs but if you are unsure consult with your dermatologist.
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Try to avoid wrinkles. Try these tips to avoid those unsightly lines: • Try sleeping on your back so that your face doesn’t come into contact with your pillow during the night. • Avoid direct contact with the sun by wearing a moisturizer that contains SPF. Use an umbrella or a hat to deflect the sun’s direct rays. • Stop smoking; quit now while you’re ahead. • Avoid squinting. Get that pair of reading glasses if you need to. • Get sufficient sleep. Probably the most important of them all, as your body produces adequate amounts of HGH (Human Growth Hormone) when you sleep, which aid in preserving your skin’s youth.
Oooh La La Mama!
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Maternity Style Tips
regnancy is a wonderful time- whether you planned that baby or not. But it takes a lot of physical and mental adjustment for us ladies who see our bodies changing daily-our enlarging breasts, hips, bellies and waistlines. While you may lament the loss of those lovely skinnies, remember they’ll be back soon –think of it as giving them a little holiday – and embrace the fact that it’s time to invest in some maternity clothes. Our inner fashionistas will ensure that we continue looking fabulous for the upcoming 9 months and beyond. Here are some maternity fashion tips.
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The Maternity Capsule Wardrobe: Putting it simply this means investing in a few key pieces, which can be mixed and matched and work well together for different occasions.
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Long and flowy: Caftans and maxi dresses, from brightly coloured to black and white, are both stylish and comfortable. Dress in fun prints from floral to tribal to geometric. Even a two piece outfit, such as palazzo pants and a camisole in chiffon material that is loose around the belly shows that your style is very much alive.
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Creating interest: Tops with an interesting neckline, like a Kimono style, shows off your new cleavage and takes interest away from the lower body. They can be paired with elastic-waist jeans or leggings for comfort. If w w w . a m g tt. c o m
you find a pair of maternity jeans that fit and they are a little bit on the pricey side, buy them- most will have enough give to last you throughout pregnancy, making them well worth the money.
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All about accessories: simple comfortable outfits can be jazzed up with cute embellished sandals/flats or statement neckpieces, bangles or chunky rings. Even beautiful scarfs worn around the neck can spice up a basic outfit. Be bold.
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Cardigans: These are great for adding a ‘new look’ to an outfit. Additional layers work amazingly well during pregnancy, so including this item in your maternity capsule wardrobe is a must-have. Wear them with jeans and over a tee for a casual look, or over a maxi dress for an evening event.
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DON'T make the mistake of buying your normal clothes in larger sizes. This will just make you look big, bulky and frumpy. Maternity clothes have flourished in the last decade. Invest in stylish pieces that fit well, glide over your contours and bump and give you a flattering shape. It’s a time that may be challenging for some of us, as we come to terms with our changing bodies. Always remember to keep your positive body image and embrace this new phase of your life with open arms. It’s still you so show the world that you haven’t lost that flair. MAY 2015
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MEDICINE CABINET
HOME GYM
Mammography Facts
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ammograms can be used to check for breast cancer in women who have no signs or symptoms of the disease. This type of mammogram is called a screening mammogram. Screening mammograms usually involve two x-ray pictures, or images, of each breast. The x-ray images make it possible to detect tumors that cannot be felt. Screening mammograms can also find microcalcifications (tiny deposits of calcium) that sometimes indicate the presence of breast cancer. Mammograms can also be used to check for breast cancer after a lump or other sign or symptom of the disease has been found. This type of mammogram is called a diagnostic mammogram. Besides a lump, signs of breast cancer can include breast pain, thickening of the skin of the breast, nipple discharge, or a change in breast size or shape; however, these signs may also be signs of benign conditions.
How often should a mammogram be done? Women ages 50 to 74 years should get a mammogram every 2 years. Women younger than age 50 should talk to a doctor about when to start and how often to have a mammogram. As with any medical test, mammograms have limits. These limits include: • They are only part of a complete breast exam. Your doc24
tor also should do a clinical breast exam. If your mammogram finds something abnormal, your doctor will order other tests. • False negatives can happen. This means everything may look normal, but cancer is actually present. False negatives don't happen often. Younger women are more likely to have a false negative mammogram than are older women. The dense breasts of younger women make breast cancers harder to find in mammograms. • False positives can happen. This is when the mammogram results look like cancer is present, even though it is not. False positives are more common in younger women, women who have had breast biopsies, women with a family history of breast cancer, and women who are taking estrogen, such as menopausal hormone therapy. • Mammograms (as well as dental x-rays and other routine x-rays) use very small doses of radiation. The risk of any harm is very slight, but repeated x-rays could cause cancer. The benefits nearly always outweigh the risk. Talk to your doctor about the need for each xray. Ask about shielding to protect parts of the body that are not in the picture. You should always let your doctor and the technician know if there is any chance that you are pregnant.
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Fitness Nutrition Mistakes
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iet and workouts go hand in hand. However, people often make diet mistakes which lead to negative results. Here are some of them. Not consuming the right amount of calories for the amount of activity you do (i.e., too many or too few). Your caloric intake should be sufficient to support your active lifestyle, but not so abundant that weight control becomes a challenge. Do not replace meals with energy bars or replacement drinks. Many energy bars offer little more nutrition than your average candy bar and replacement drinks may lack adequate fiber. There’s really no substitute for healthy whole foods. Many people looking to get shredded abs and cut triceps often make the mistake of avoiding high-fat foods at all costs. Avoiding fats altogether is a big nutrition mistake. Fat has a variety of nutritional benefits, including its aid in brain development and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. Fat also provides linoleic and linolenic acids- the fatty acids that our bodies need but cannot pro-
duce on their own. Try opting for avocado, nuts, or salmon, all healthy sources of the essential fatty acids our bodies need. While it is true that the amount of calories in your diet will determine whether you gain or lose weight, remember that the type of calories you take in will determine how easy it is to attain your desired calorie level. The more healthy foods you eat, the less you crave junk. If you’re eating nothing but junk food or processed snack foods, you’ll likely either go way overboard with your calorie intake or have to battle with blood-sugar highs and crashes all day long -- with the corresponding hunger that comes with them. Also, a lot of exercisers run low on sodium. A diet too high in sodium is typically the problem for most people. However, if you are a heavy exerciser, salt is actually your friend. When you sweat, you lose fluid along with the electrolytes sodium and potassium. If you do not replace those electrolytes, you run the risk of developing muscle cramps. Sports drinks, soups and salted crackers can help.
GARAGE
PETS
Give Your Garage A Boost
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e all think of a garage as a place to park our cars or stock our tools. However, the 2013 garage is a lot more than that. Turn your garage into your personal Shangri-La and enjoy the workman’s dream. Get A Refrigerator Why walk to the kitchen when you get the munchies or you need to get hydrated? No doubt your garage duties will leave you a tad dirty or sweaty. Keep refreshments close and get your munch and gulp on while you work. Top Up Your Security If you’re going to keep anything valuable in there, from your tools to your car, then you’ll want to protect them. Adding a security system is a must. Garages are sometimes overlooked in regards to the rest of house but they shouldn’t be. Add An Entertainment System It is no secret that music can get you through hard work easier. Your garage chores don’t have to be a chore. Turn your garage 26
Two Natural Pet Odor Removal Remedies
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f you have indoor pets, then we are sure you are familiar with just how stinky things can get. Pet accidents, bits of food and even the actual animal scents can contribute to the unpleasantness. These natural DIY remedies may help you get past this.
VINEGAR/BAKING SODA SPRAY into your personal man-cave by putting a small radio in there. Better yet, put the old TV in the garage. That way you can keep up with sports, news or just music – Whatever floats your boat. Go Wireless Consider putting a place for a computer in your garage. You might put a desktop in there or, if you have a router, use your laptop and a wireless connector. A computer is handy for when you’re working on a project and you need to look something up quickly. You can even source online parts.
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Ingredients 2 cups white distilled vinegar 2 cups of lukewarm water 4 generous tablespoons of baking soda Spray bottle Directions Thoroughly blot up as much of whatever it is you’re cleaning up. Mix 2 cups of white distilled vinegar with 2 cups of lukewarm water in a large bowl. Add in 4 heaping tablespoons of baking soda, adding it in smaller amounts if it threatens to fizz over (and it really does fizz!) Pour into a spray bottle and thoroughly spray the area. Let sit for 5 minutes, then gen-
tly rub and blot up with a soft cloth. You can also simply pour some straight from the bowl over the stain if you don’t have a spray bottle.
CITRUS ENZYME CLEANER Ingredients 7 tablespoons of brown sugar 1 ½ cups of lemon and orange peels/scraps 1 liter of water A bottle or clear container large enough to hold the liquid and peels/scraps Directions Funnel 7 tablespoons of brown sugar into your container, and add the fruit. Next, add the water, and tightly screw on the cap, giving everything a good shake to mix it around. Loosen the cap and leave it on halfway to release the gases and ensure your bottle doesn’t explode due to the build-up. After 3 months, your natural enzymatic cleaner will be ready to use!
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Tips To Great Group Travel
hinking about vacationing with a group? It may not be as easy as it sounds. However, group travel can be a success if you take these tips into account. Think about your comfort first When you are booking your group tour, think about the things that make you happy when you’re traveling. Do you typically like to split the family up into two different hotel rooms? Do you prefer for the rooms to be next door to each other so that everyone can walk in and out of each other’s spaces easily? Is it absolutely necessary for your son or daughter to have a window seat on all flights? These are all things the tour operator should know at the time of booking. It would be a disaster to start off your trip in a bad mood because you didn’t make the small provisions you need for your own comfort. Keep it short Pick a short time frame for the trip. Groups tend to get restless after more than a few days together. Stick with a short time frame for the trip. Members of the group who want to stay 28
longer can always extend their own part of the vacation if they so choose.
Share the responsibility Not an accountant? Somebody in your group is probably good with numbers. Assign them the task of group accountant for shared meal or drink expenses. Look for buddies that can also help arrange transportation, tours, and make sure everyone stays on schedule and is prepared for the day's activities.
Share your knowledge Almost everyone in the large group has done a bit of research, much of it reflecting their own expertise and interests, so that when they all start throwing out ideas and suggestions, in the aggregate it is like having the ultimate guidebook writer sitting in the room with you outlining your perfect itinerary. Avoid splitting into sameage groups Don’t assume that the kids will have the most fun if they spend time with their cousins. They may actually enjoy hanging out with their grandparents. Of course, there are exceptions to this. For example, the kids might like to run off together to the hotel’s game room and the young adults may head to the hotel bar together. Nevertheless, don’t assume that same-age activities make for the most fun during group travel. Look for group discounts If your final group is large enough, it may qualify you for considerable discounts at many
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attractions. These discounts are often best arranged or even purchased in advance, but if this isn't an option, it is simple enough to ask. Ask everyone to make a list of concerns and needs Each traveler will have needs that the others may not think about. One may require vegetarianfriendly restaurants, another may be concerned about the safety of a hotel and yet another may absolutely hate taking early red eye flights. Of course, there may have to be some compromise but it’s a lot easier to accommodate everyone’s little peccadilloes if you get a big list of them before planning the vacation.
Go with a pro If handling hotels, sightseeing, meals and activities is too much of a load - find a capable tour operator to plan your group's trip. This is especially true with overseas travel, with companies like Globus, Go Ahead Tours and Collette Vacations specializing in working with small groups. Another benefit? The group leader travels free with as little as 8 paying passengers. Have an alternate plan On this score, you should have your own plan for an alternate activity or route in case the scheduled itinerary starts to collapse, folks get combative or you realize you want to move at a different pace to the group. In the end the quality of your trip is in your hands alone, and you need to accept that responsibility.
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