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.
Three Considerations
For Hanging Plant Care
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anging baskets are quite common in Trinidad and Tobago. Mild winds and bright sunlight make hanging plants ideal choices for many homes. If you are interested in using hanging plants to complement your home’s décor then these three tips are vital to care. Place hanging plants in spots that can be adequately supported by the ceiling. If your plant grows large or heavy fruit or vegetables, or if you use a heavy container made of clay, your hanging plant may fall from the ceiling and be damaged if it is not properly supported. Water often and thoroughly.
Plants in containers generally need to be watered more often than if they were growing in the ground. This is especially true for hanging baskets because they are subject to drying winds. Reach up and lift the pot from below; if it feels light, it probably needs water. Put your fin-
ger one inch into the soil; if it is dry at that depth, water. In most areas you should expect to water hanging plants every day, or even twice a day. Water should stream from the drainage holes when you water. Be sure to fertilize your plant adequately. Because you’ll
be watering frequently, nutrients will leave the potting mix quickly. Feed the plants with a liquid fertilizer or a dry slow-release fertilizer (not both). Follow the directions for amount and frequency. Feed when the soil is moist, and never when plants are wilting.
Dealing With Smoke Damage
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f you have been so unfortunate to have experienced a minor fire at your home or even a situation where there would have been bad smoke damage, then you would be very interested in knowing how to treat it. Smoke damage extends beyond just odours. It can leave soot on walls as well. Here is how you tackle this problem. Vinegar: White vinegar cuts through odors naturally. Try wiping down furniture, washable walls, floors, etc. with white vinegar. Also, try placing several bowls of vinegar around the room with the smoke damage, leaving them there for several days. If you can’t stand the smell of vinegar either, try mixing a bit of
lavender oil into the bowls to help cut the odor of the vinegar. Baking Soda: Baking soda is another natural odor-absorber. Try sprinkling liberal amounts of baking soda over furniture, floors, etc. Leave a few bowls of baking soda around the room for several days to help absorb the odors. Febreeze: Febreeze, a popular odor-reducing product sold in many stores, uses a chemical compound called cyclodextrin, a sugar-like substance that absorbs odors. Spraying the area down with Febreze may help to reduce the smoke odor. Activated Charcoal: This product, often used as a detoxifying agent, is also a natural w w w . a m g tt. c o m
odor absorbent. Placing bowls of activated charcoal (powdered form) around your room may help to absorb the smoke odors. Fresh Air: In the warmer weather, leave your windows and doors open as much as possible. Fresh air will eventually dissipate the smell of smoke. Ozone Generators: There are products on the market known as Ozone Generators which may help in reducing or even eliminating smoke odor from your house. Remember, though, that these expensive products, while effective in reducing the odor, will not eliminate it completely if the odor has permeated the carpets, draperies, furnishings, etc.
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LIVING QUARTERS
Basic Home Design Rules
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ome design is no easy task. Making functionality and appeal merge smoothly at a junction takes talent or at least discipline. If you don’t have an artistic eye, it is important to follow the basic rules of décor before embarking on a home design project. Design for You If the trend is toward gray walls but you just can’t get on board with gray? Don’t try to make yourself like it. Just let go. It’s not for you, and that’s cool. If your favorite bloggers are wrapping their world in chevron but you just don’t get it? This is your official invitation to ignore those trends. And if you’re finding that no one is using red in their homes but you LOVE red, you always wear red and it makes you happy? Please, PLEASE decorate with red. It doesn’t make sense designing for the neighbours. You can’t please everybody. If your goal is to wow others, you might get a few people who really dig the decisions you make, but most people probably don’t have the
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the ‘good’ money into the rooms you use the most. Many people mistakenly spend a lot on living room furniture that only gets used twice a year. Instead of blowing that dough unnecessarily, get inexpensive furnishings that look nice in those rooms. Then, spend the good money on high quality family room furnishings that are used every day. You won’t be sorry.
same style you do. You just can’t make a room that everyone likes. Even if you could design a room that would impress your neighbors, you still have to live there. Ninety-nine percent of the time, you’ll be home with no one to impress and only your family, living in the space. Don’t give up comfort and joy for that 99% just so you can have 1% of feeling like you impressed someone. Accessorize For a home to be inviting and comfortable for friends and family it has to be properly accessorized. Paintings, flowers pots,
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decorative bowls, and books are simple ideas you can use to bring your personal space to life and make things work. They say rules were made to be broken. While that might be true, in home décor rules are necessary to create balance and make a space appear modern and comfortable. Play with colors, use accessories to create drama and make your home look fabulous without investing a lot of money. Spend where it counts It’s tempting to gussy up a formal room, but what’s the point if you never use it? Put
Choose your paint color last Paint colors are endless! By selecting paint swatches before anything else in your room, you are possibly limiting yourself on finding that perfect fabric or artwork for your space! When decorating a room, begin with a print you love whether it be a rug, a piece of art, or the fabric on an accent chair or pillow. Then pull your paint colors from it! This helps create a cohesive room that is a true representation of you! Paint is supposed to help support your furniture and fabric selections. It lets your accents shine and remain the focal point of your room!
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- Promotion ends September 30th, 2015 - Special conditions apply. See in-branch leaflet for full promotion details - All Visa RBC Caribbean credit cardholders will have a chance to win all prizes - You are automatically entered to win once your application is approved by September 30th, 2015 or you have used your Visa RBC credit card at least 30 times during the promotion period * Cash rebates will be credited to the winner's credit card account in the amount of the balance as at September 30th, 2015 to a maximum of US $1,000 - The grand prize trip includes airfare, accommodation, spending money and tickets to a pre-selected Rio 2016 Olympic event for two (2) persons - Employees of RBC Royal Bank and its advertising agencies are not eligible to enter - Winners will be selected on October 30th, 2015 - Promotion approved by the NLCB
® /™ Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. ‡ All other trademarks are the property of their respective owner(s).
LIVING QUARTERS
Home Interior Lighting Tips
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hen it comes to home design, you just cannot focus enough on lighting. Choose your lighting for its functionality as well as its fashionable nature. When choosing lighting, there are some important things to think about. Enhance your Natural Light options In many homes the problem isn’t the sources of light through adjacent windows, rather the ability to let light in effectively. Take a look at your current window treatments. Heavy blinds, thick drapery and layered fabric curtains often keep out muchneeded natural light. Consider using lighter-weight fabrics such as cotton or linen fabrics, especially in climates that allow moderate temperatures to filter in. For more extreme climates, opt for materials that are versatile and can be tied back to let in light or closed when the sunshine is glaring or too bright. 4
Step up Stair lighting One area often neglected is the staircase. Staircases are built around awkward angles, so spotlights from the ceiling can create insufficient pools of light and shadows in places, which isn’t very safe. By installing directional lights at floor level, you avoid this and create a more subtle, evenly distributed light (see picture). Stairs are also a great place to hang prints or pictures that mean something to you, so it’s important that they are well lit so you can see them.
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Don’t be afraid of the Spotlight Spotlights make a feature out of key possessions and architectural detail. They can also be interesting when used in the corners of rooms, where you would not normally have light. You can then install two different switches, so that any ceiling lights would be on a different circuit to spotlights. This works extremely well in bedrooms. When two circuits are installed, one can be used for spotlights to highlight specific areas and one for periphery lights, which is good for adjusting levels of light for different moods. A blanket of spotlights on a ceiling isn’t glamorous and the excessive light they provide can be exhausting, but a dimmer switch can instantly change the lighting from dramatic to cozy. Functionality is a must Light should not just be used for decorating or aesthetic purposes. It is important that the
lighting serves its purpose and is functional. Such lighting is known as task lighting. This is aimed to give you more support when you are doing certain activities such as reading, cooking, sewing, and learning. Adjustable floor lights, arm lamps or wall sconces can be delightful alternatives. This makes the second layer of your lighting and you can turn it off when you do not use the lamps. Variety is the spice of Light The general rule of thumb for all interior lighting is that you want a mixture of lighting at multiple levels throughout every room in your home. For example, picture a kitchen with lighting units above your island, and task lighting underneath your cabinetry; or ceiling units in your living room with table top lamps around the perimeter. This combination of lighting will make the rooms more functional.
LIVING QUARTERS
Laundry Room Maintenance
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ost laundry rooms in Trinidad and Tobago are more than just laundry rooms. They are commonly the location for several house and outdoor projects, storage, and as a home for other appliances. Despite that, laundry rooms are seldom at the top of your priority list when it comes to home maintenance. However, having your laundry operating smoothly can be beneficial to almost every other aspect of the home. Here is how you go about taking care of the laundry. Washer Update your hoses - If your washing machine still has old rubber hoses, it's time for an update. Washer hoses wear out over time and can result in leaks, mold or water damage. Braided metal hoses last much longer, and you can install them all by yourself. They might cost a little bit more, but at such minimal costs per hose, who's counting? Keep it level - Take some time
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to ensure that your washing machine is completely level. If your machine is rattling and shaking more than seems necessary, something is probably off. Take a level and use it on all four sides. If you find a side that is off, adjust the legs at the bottom with a wrench. Clean it out - If your washing machine has an odor, you should take the time to wash it out. This can be done by running an empty cycle with bleach or a natural cleaner and then ensuring that the inside is completely dry. Dryer Clear the lint filter - Far too many people still neglect to clear the lint filter before doing a load of laundry. Not only does leaving the lint in the filter cause your dryer to work less efficiently, it also poses a significant fire hazard. Clean the exhaust pipe - Less frequently, but still a few times a year, it is important to clean out
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upgrading to metal ductwork to reduce the risk of fire. Keeping your washer and dryer working is easy, but if you neglect this work you may soon find yourself with an expensive repair bill. Remember not to overload your washer or dryer, as repeatedly doing so can significantly reduce its lifespan.
the exhaust pipe, as this also fills up with lint. If left unattended for too long, this can pose the same problems as a full lint filter. Get a long, flexible dryer vent brush to clear this out. Inspect the pipe - Hot air is constantly running through your dryer exhaust pipe when the dryer is running, so it is important that this air can quickly escape to the outside. Regularly ensure that there are no crimps or unnecessary bends in the exhaust pipe. If you still have an old vinyl exhaust pipe, consider
Vents Using a brush attachment, vacuum the vents on a high setting. Dust and lint, particularly in this room, can clog the vents, reducing airflow in the room. Wipe the vent grates with a damp cloth. Iron Clean mineral deposits and spray-starch buildup. Make a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to a cloth, and wipe down the iron. Circle the holes on the soleplate with cotton swabs. This will prevent deposits from ruining your outfits and keep the iron base smooth so it won’t stick to fabric.
HOME OFFICE
Financial Rules For Families
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s the head of a family, you will have a lot on your plate. That should not lead you to neglect finances. These tips will help you keep your family on track. Make savings automatic This should be your top priority, especially if you don’t have a solid emergency fund yet. Make it the first bill you pay each payday, by having a set amount automatically transferred from your checking account to your savings (try an online savings account). Don’t even think about this transaction — just make sure it happens, each and every payday. Control your impulses This is a big problem for many of us. Impulse spending, on eating out and shopping and online purchases, is a big drain on our finances, the biggest budget breaker for many, and a sure way to be in dire financial straits. Evaluate expenses for frugal living If you’ve never tracked your expenses, try doing it for one 8
month. Then evaluate how you’re spending your money, and see what you can cut out or reduce. Decide if each expense is absolutely necessary, and then eliminate the unnecessary. Invest in your future. If you’re young, you probably don’t think about retirement much. But it’s important. Even if you think you can always plan for retirement later, do it now. The growth of your investments over time will be amazing if you start in your 20s. Do a little research, but whatever you do, start now! Secure Your Family The first step is to save for an emergency fund, so that if anything happens, you’ve got the money. If you have a spouse and/or dependents, you should definitely get life insurance and make a will — as soon as possible! Also research other insurance, such as homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. Avoid Debt If you’ve got credit cards, personal loans, or other such debt,
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you need to start a debt elimination plan. List out your debts and arrange them in order from smallest balance at the top to the largest at the bottom. Then focus on the debt at the top, putting as much as you can into it, even if it’s just $40-50 extra. When that amount is paid off, celebrate! Then take the total amount you were paying and add that to the minimum payment of the next largest debt. Continue this process, with your extra amount snowballing as you go along, until you pay off all your debts. This could take several years, but it’s a very rewarding process, and very necessary. Use the envelope system This is a simple system to keep track of how much money you have for spending. Let’s say you set aside three amounts in your budget each payday — one for gas, one for groceries, one for eating out. Withdraw those amounts on payday, and put them in three separate envelopes. That way, you can easily track how much you have left
for each of these expenses, and when you run out of money, you know it immediately. You don’t overspend in these categories. If you regularly run out too fast, you may need to rethink your budget. Pay bills immediately One good habit is to pay bills as soon as they come in. Also, as much as possible, try to get your bills to be paid through automatic deduction. For those that can’t, use your bank’s online check system to make regular automatic payments. This way, all of your regular expenses in your budget are taken care of. Educate yourself Look to grow your net worth. Do whatever you can to improve your net worth, either by reducing your debt, increasing your savings, or increasing your income, or all of the above. Look for new ways to make money, or to get paid more for what you do. Over the course of months, if you calculate your net worth each month, you’ll see it grow. And that feels great.
ELEGANT IDEAS
Embrace The Outdoors
This super-comfortable upper level porch capitalizes on a fantastic view. w w w . a m g tt. c o m
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ELEGANT IDEAS
Massive windows enhance and enlarge this indoor space while giving it an outdoor feel.
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ELEGANT IDEAS
Embrace the glorious sight and scent of fresh greenery in your yard.
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ELEGANT IDEAS
A quiet spot in your garden can offer the perfect place of Zen.
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ELEGANT IDEAS
This outdoor fireplace adds both comfort and artistic flair to your garden landscape.
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KITCHEN
Abstract’s Top 5 Five Kitchen Trends
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hen it comes to décor every era has its own look, feel and mood. What was hot ten years ago may not be hot today and ten years from now it may seem archaic. Right now though, there are some trends that cannot be denied. Here are five of the most fabulous kitchen trends in recent years.
sorized with electronics rather than traditional decor. Popular electronic items, such as wallmount televisions, sound systems, and computers, are showing up in all rooms of the home. Another hot trend is making the home "wireless."
Kitchen/Family Rooms More and more, kitchens are incorporating dining rooms and sitting rooms into a unified space. Consequently, kitchen cabinets are looking more like fine furniture, and counters and islands are becoming dining tables. Banquette seating can offer comfortable seating for people who congregate in the kitchen for more than food.
lines bring a polished look to refrigerators, stoves, and even trash compactors and waste bins. Plus, there’s no more worrying about fingerprints smudging the surface of stainless. Manufacturers offer fingerprint-resistant steel that eliminates this issue.
Stainless Steel Appliances Stainless-steel appliances bring a sophisticated and rich feel to the kitchen and work with a variety of styles. The sleek silver
Walk – In Pantries A walk-in pantry is the perfect solution for families who require must-have kitchen items in quantity. All necessities
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-- snacks, canned goods, baking supplies, and even surplus goods such as paper towels and aluminum foil -- are hidden behind closed doors. Space for items used on a daily basis, such as silverware, dishes, glassware, and cooking gadgets, is reserved for kitchen drawers and cupboards. Tech-Friendly Kitchens As people become increasingly tech-savvy, kitchens and bathrooms are being acces-
Eco-Friendly Products Products made from sustainable materials are increasingly popular. Eco-friendly cabinetry, made from bamboo or wheatboard, is often manufactured with low- or no-formaldehyde glues, which protects the home's indoor air quality. Shown here is all-bamboo cabinetry from Laguna Bamboo. Water-conserving faucets and Energy Star-rated appliances help homeowners save money on energy bills and reduce the use of natural resources. Keep reading Abstract Home to catch up on the latest décor trends in each issue.
RECIPES
Great Ground Beef Recipes
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round beef is one of the most convenient meats to prepare. It can be used in so many dishes and can be molded into so many fun shapes. Roll it up into meatballs, press it into patties‌ the choices are almost limitless. Here are a few options to try.
SWEET AND SOUR MEATBALLS Ingredients 1 (12 fluid ounce) can or bottle chili sauce 2 teaspoons lemon juice 9 ounces grape jelly 1 pound lean ground beef 1 egg, beaten 1 large onion, grated Salt to taste Directions Whisk together the chili sauce, lemon juice and grape jelly. Pour into slow cooker and simmer over low heat until warm. Combine ground beef, egg, onion and salt. Mix well and form into 1 inch balls. Add to sauce and simmer for 1 1/2 hours.
LASAGNA PEPPER BOATS Ingredients 6 green bell peppers, halved and seeded Salt to taste 18
Water as needed 1 pound ground beef 3 (8 ounce) cans tomato sauce 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano Ground black pepper to taste 1 (12 ounce) container cottage cheese 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Arrange bell peppers, cut-side up, in a 10x15-inch baking dish; season with salt. Pour enough water into dish to make 1/4-inch depth.
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Heat a large skillet over mediumhigh heat. Cook and stir beef in the hot skillet until browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes; drain and discard grease. Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, 1 teaspoon salt, oregano, and black pepper to ground beef; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until flavors blend, about 15 minutes. Fill each bell pepper with a heaping tablespoon cottage cheese; top with a layer of mozzarella cheese, a layer of Cheddar cheese, and meat sauce. Sprinkle each 'boat' with more mozzarella cheese and Cheddar cheese. Bake in the preheated oven until peppers are tender and cheeses are melted, 50 to 65 minutes.
HOBO BEANS Ingredients 1 pound minced beef 1/2 pound bacon 1 (28 ounce) can baked beans with pork 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained 1 (15 ounce) can lima beans, rinsed and drained 2 onions, chopped 1 cup ketchup 1 cup brown sugar 1 teaspoon prepared mustard Directions Heat a large skillet over medium-
high heat. Cook and stir hamburger and bacon together in the hot skillet until hamburger is browned and crumbly, 7 to 10 minutes. Stir cooked hamburger and bacon, baked beans with pork, kidney beans, lima beans, onions, ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard together in the crock of your slow cooker. Cook on Low until hot and thickened, at least 3 hours.
SALSA MEATLOAF Ingredients 1 pound ground beef sirloin 1/2 cup salsa 1/2 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese 1 egg, lightly beaten 3 cloves garlic, minced Dried parsley to taste Salt and pepper to taste Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). In a large bowl, mix the ground sirloin, salsa, bread crumbs, cheese, egg, and garlic. Season with parsley, salt, and pepper. Transfer to a 5x9 inch loaf pan. Bake 45 minutes in the preheated oven, or to a minimum internal temperature of 160 degrees F (72 degrees C).
BRIDAL
Engagement Announcement Tips
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hen a couple is about to be wed, at least one of the two of them feels like they want the entire world to know. Therefore, from the moment of the engagement the next step is the announcement. Usually, this involves an excited bride or groom calling and texting friends and family to tell them the news. However, there is also the formal, traditional engagement announcement method. Here are some tips for an engagement announcement. The first tip is to remember to be sensitive. In today’s day and age, blended families make for a myriad of family ties and complications. If this is your second marriage, you don’t need a newspaper ad, engagement cards and a big deal on Facebook. Be empathetic to those who may take the news hard (e.g. an exspouse). In that case, a face to face would be the best bet. Take into consideration children who 20
may be involved. Handle it with tact. The engagement is just the beginning. Don’t make things uncomfortable from the get-go. Be the bigger person. Now that you know the importance of showing respect, there is the consideration of the method of announcement you
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will choose. Spreading the news at a party is one of the ways it can be done. Obviously the type of party should be considered. A regular club night with friends is a bad idea. However, a party setting gives you the opportunity to see the joy on everyone's faces when they learn
you are engaged. Just make sure that you don't invite anyone to the party who won't be invited to the wedding. Most of all ensure that it is your party and not someone else’s. This is a big announcement and you don’t want to upstage anyone on their birthday or special day. Now that you know a bit about the etiquette of engagement announcements, here is a bit about what should be included in the announcement whether it is a formal, published one or verbal. Typically they mention career details about the two betrothed; their parents' names and places of residence, and educational credentials (space permitting). Obviously, it should only include what you'd like the world to know. Information on the actual wedding date does not need to be included. A generalized date can be inserted to avoid the "So when's the big day?" questions later.
FAMILY
Often Neglected Relationship Issues
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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 common relationship concern. You may enjoy time together with your partner and your partner may want some time 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 need" 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 you feeling rejected or neglected or think-
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ing 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 us 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 like no
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other. Aside from the feelings of disrespect, lack of trust develops between a couple, 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 your sex life with your spouse. 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 gotten 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.
WARDROBE
POWDER ROOM
Choosing A Makeup Artist
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hether weddings or graduations, these days are memorable ones not only because of the occasion, but because the event is always documented via photo or video. Nobody in that situation wants to spend such a day in less than stellar condition. Therefore, many people don’t do their own makeup on special days. Instead they seek the help of qualified makeup artists. However, the number of makeup horror stories can usually match the success stories. It is therefore important to find the right one for the job. Begin with a list. Decide what things are most important to you in a makeup artist and their offered services. Will you need makeup for your team as well? Then you need someone who can handle that size group. Or perhaps you’re on a tight budget and need someone who can work within that limit, no matter what. Make a list of these important things for reference during your research and to take with you to your consultation. Then, as you begin your search, start with your friends and ask them who did their makeup for their special occasion. Look at their photos and take note of how their makeup looked throughout the day and in different lighting situations. Did the makeup look just as good before the ceremony as it did in the
last frame? Talk to your photographer about what kind of look you want for your pictures and ask them for a recommendation. Your photographer will be able to give you a professional opinion about someone in the industry that they may have already worked with. Use your local resources to research professional Makeup Artists in your area. Another tip to enhancing your search for the right makeup artist is to do a trial run. Organize a trial run. Wear a white shirt to your makeover to give you some idea of what a white background would look like with the colors the artist selected. If the makeover meets with your approval, talk to the artist about doing your makeup. Alternatively, you may want to call a few makeup artists in the phone book and ask the cost of a makeover. Communicate with the artist during your trial run. Talk about how you want to look. Bring photographs if you like to show the artist makeup you like. Finally, the importance of a proper budget cannot be understated. The cost of a make-up artist can vary significantly. To be efficient, decide how much you plan to spend on make up before you start your search. Many artists list prices on their website, as well as sample photos of past clients, making websites a great place to start.
Ten Must-Have Accessories For The Ladies Closet
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othing says more about someone’s personality outwardly, than the way that they dress, and for ladies this can be a very big deal. Accessories, just as the name suggests, are used to compliment an outfit and there are certain items that women must never be without. These include a cute pair of pumps or sultry earrings that can either accentuate the face or bring attention to the feet. Take a look at the checklist below to see which one (s) you may be missing. 1) Pumps- whether they are pointed, rounded or opentoed, a pair of pumps can be used to add that sexy look to any dress. Always have a pair of black heels at hand. 2) Flats- not to be confused with flip-flops, but flat, whole, closed-toe shoes that are perfect when on the go. They come in different styles and designs and can even be worn with the right dress. 3) Diamonds- even cubic zirconia, but every woman should own a necklace, ring, bracelets or earrings that sparkle and shine. These always shine and stand out where ever you go. 4) Pearls- there is no rule that says that only celebrities should wear these. Pearls can w w w . a m g tt. c o m
add a sense of sophistication to an outfit that no other accessory could. 5) Clutch- perfect for dinner parties, clubbing or an evening stroll. They come in handy to house the evening’s necessities. 6) Belt- an immediate outfit changer, this can turn a boring look into something fun and classy. The wider your variety the better as each size can be used to portray a different look. 7) Bag- different from a clutch, these can actually be worn over-the-shoulder or on the inside corner of your elbow. Leather is best as it gives a polished elegant look and the size can range from small to medium to large. Depending on the outfit and the occasion, you should choose wisely. 8) Cocktail ring- the bolder the colours the better as they give an added effect. There are some with varying or dizzy patterns; these can give a glam look. 9) Watch- Whether gold or stainless steel, a watch also adds sophistication and elegance to any outfit. It also adds a bit of intelligence to your look. 10) Cuff- these are gorgeous and are perfect for cocktail parties. They serve as a bracelet and come in different sizes and colours.
AUGUST 2015
ABSTRACT HOME
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MEDICINE CABINET
HOME GYM
The Importance Of Vitamins And Minerals
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e must consume a balanced variety of vitamins and minerals in order to be healthy. The best way to do this is by having a broad diet which covers all of the food groups. The balance is important as too much of a particular vitamin or mineral can create health problems just as too little supplements can. Contrary to popular perception, additional supplements should not be consumed along with a balanced food diet unless recommended by a doctor. In other words, supplements would do more harm than good to you if just taken as a precaution. The people most likely to need vitamins are pregnant women, people with low bone density and vegans. Here is a list of vitamins from A-K showing their importance and relevance to your body’s needs: Vitamin A is superb for the eyes. It helps night vision and it also helps you see in colour, meaning images do not become dull in your vision. Anyone who cares about their looks can benefit from vitamin A as it aids in promoting healthy skin. Some of the foods which are rich in Vitamin A are liver, spinach, sweet potatoes and cantaloupes. There is more than one B vitamin. There are vitamins B1, B2, B6, B12, niacin, folic acid, biotin, and pantothenic acid. These vitamins are essential to a body’s metabolism, meaning, they help create energy and release the energy when your body requires it. Vitamin B fosters the growth of red blood cells which carry oxygen throughout the body.
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Good sources of B vitamins are eggs, peas and beans, poultry and meats, dairy, seafood and whole grains such as oats and wheat. Vitamin C strengthens the immune system and helps the body resist infection generally. Cuts heal faster when there is ample vitamin C in the body. Tissues (such as gums) and muscles are kept in shape thanks to this supplement. Foods which are rich in vitamin C are citrus, kiwi fruit, sweet red peppers, broccoli, cabbage, tomatoes, cantaloupe and strawberries. Vitamin D is directly associated with strong bones and teeth. This vitamin also works well in collaboration with the mineral calcium as it helps calcium to be absorbed into the body. Fish, liver, egg yolks, fortified milk and fortified cereals are all good sources of a vitamin D enriched diet. Hard-working vitamin E maintains a lot of your body's tissues, such as the ones in your eyes, skin, and liver. It protects your lungs from becoming damaged by polluted air. This important vitamin can be found in whole grains, spinach, sardines, egg yolks, wheat-germ, nuts and seeds. Vitamin K is one of the most underrated vitamins available. It plays an important part in the coagulation of blood in the body. People with deficiencies in E vitamins may not be able to stop hemorrhaging when wounded. Leafy green veggies, broccoli, soybean oil, milk and yogurt are staples when it comes to providing a source of vitamin K to the body.
ABSTRACT HOME AUGUST 2015 w w w . a mg t t . co m
Three Benefits Of Resistance Band Workouts
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esistance bands have been popular workout tools for quite some time. A lot of hardcore ‘gymmers’ dislike them, but there are also a lot of people who appreciate what a resistance band workout can help them accomplish. Here are three benefits of using resistance bands. They exercise your whole body Many resistance band kits come with suggested exercises for nearly every major muscle group in your body. Stepping on one end of a resistance band or looping it around a stationary object, for example, opens up many exercise possibilities. They are extremely mobile Resistance bands are lightweight and easily portable. You can stash them in your suitcase when travelling and use them to get a good workout right in your hotel room.
They adapt easily for multiple fitness levels Resistance bands come in multiple resistance levels, usually light, medium or heavy. You can further adjust the amount of resistance during exercise just by giving more or less slack on the band, as well as by combining multiple resistance bands to increase the challenge.
GARAGE
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Top 5 Garage Must Haves
one are the days where the garage is just a place to park the car. It has become a hub - a multi-dimensional workhorse - to millions of people across the country. It’s a space saver, the place where you build things, repair things, a game room, and the pet’s lair. And, while a garage may serve different purposes for different times in our lives, there are some items that are essential to every garage no matter what. Here’s a list of the top five. 1. Extra storage space: Whether it’s permanent cabinetry or removable shelving, every garage needs extra storage. We collect tons of stuff over time, and while it’s nice to imagine the day when we’ll finally sort through it all carefully labeling as we go it’s practical to have a place where we can just toss miscellaneous things for the interim. Plus, for those items that we actually plan on keeping (but there’s no way it’s “in the house” material), extra storage will provide the space and freedom to hang onto necessities. 2. A workbench: From heavyduty building projects to home repairs, a workbench provides an area of concentration to complete the job. Often made of oak, pine or another solid wood, these surfaces are tough multi-taskers that are designed to handle any project you can dish out. Generally nestled along a side wall of the garage, they are also easy to keep out of the way. Getting your hands on a workbench is pretty simple. For those super26
PETS
duper craftsmen, you can build your own (there are many online tutorials with step-by-step instructions). Or, if you only want to build things post-table installation, visiting a local hardware store or searching online will direct you to the perfect workbench. 3. Tool set: You might not be Bob Vila’s clone, but your garage should unquestionably house some sort of tool collection. Depending on your level of expertise and the tasks you plan to undertake, you can find a tool set with just basic equipment all the way up to the master tradesmen variety. 4. First aid kit: With all of the potential accidents that can happen while working in the garage, safety should definitely be at the top of the priority list. Even if you never have occasion to open the kit, it’s wise to have one handy at all times. Though the contents of first aid kits can vary, most generally include 30+ items ranging from bandages to over-the-counter medicines. Remember to always keep the kit fully stocked and make sure stuff isn’t expired. 5. Epoxy coating: A good floor is the foundation to a great garage. The most durable type of garage floor is one that has an epoxy coating. Epoxy floor paint is a two-part material that bonds with surfaces creating a durable, impenetrable, slip-resistant surface. Purchasing epoxy flooring doesn’t require multiple trips to the store, provides traction, decorative color, easy cleaning and a safe surface for a family.
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Three Of The Best Pets For Allergy Sufferers When Fluffy forces you to flee…
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f you love animals and you are allergic to them, caring for pets can seem like walking an endless tightrope. Given the bottles of allergy medication lining your medicine cabinets, you feel as if you’ve half-earned a medical degree in dosages, side effects, and pet dander. “Just one pet and then I’ll wash my hands” is a phrase common in the mind of an animal allergy sufferer. Then there is the frustration level when dealing with overeager pet owners who don’t understand your allergies. But not to worry — we have a list of some animals that are a little friendlier to your allergies. Standard poodle The Standard poodle has a long hair-growth cycle, which typically means it will shed less. The animal originated in Germany and is considered to be a great water dog. Experts tend to recommend this dog to allergy sufferers because “these coats tend to be both tightly curled, and usually lacking in undercoat. This combination tends to keep dead hair from detaching and floating in the air, and it tends to retain the dander, which is the most common source of allergens.” Because of this, their coat can easily matt or tangle. Therefore, the standard poodle usually requires professional grooming. Leopard gecko Lizards make excellent pets for people with allergies simply be-
cause they are hairless and relatively low maintenance. It is extremely uncommon for a person to be allergic to lizards. (Though keep in mind many lizards require live feeding, which may not fit into everyone’s understanding of low maintenance.) Leopard geckos are considered extremely easy pets because they are small and have minimal care requirements. They are native to Pakistan, India and Afghanistan and prefer a dry and rocky terrain. Goldfish Ultimately, perhaps the only hypoallergenic pet that experts can agree on would be a fish. Yes, a fish surrounded in a watery enclosure will certainly be as allergen-free as can be. But, what if you are determined to get a cat or dog as a companion? Consult your doctor to set up a proper course of medication. Invest in a HEPA filter. Keep certain areas of your home pet-free. Clean both your living space and your pet frequently. Spay or neuter your pet, simply because the sebum produced by a neutered cat is lower than in an unaltered cat. Not to mention, nearly 4 million cats and dogs are euthanized each year because there just are not enough homes for them all. Finally, don’t forget to enjoy your pet from time to time. People can learn to cope with pet allergies in a healthy way, all the while having a companion by their side.
TRAVEL
Items We Commonly Forget To Pack
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once travelled abroad and forgot to take my reading glasses. I don’t have to wear them all the time, but it sure did affect me when I had to read menus, prices on souvenirs, maps and even when I watched a little television during late nights at the hotel. It made me think about how tough it is to forget to pack other items that are crucial to your trips. Here are some of the most commonly forgotten items. Copies of Travel Documents One of the most important and most common items we forget to pack is unquestionably copies of our travel documents. No one goes on holiday expecting to lose their passport, or even worse, to have it stolen, although these unfortunate events do occur. Having copies of your passport and credit cards on hand however, allows you to head to your nearest embassy and have your passport reissued much more quickly, meaning you can get on with your holiday and minimize any costly inconveniences. Medicine Prescriptions If you are out for a long time 28
and you are on medication, bring along your medicine prescriptions. If you run out of pills or you lose them, you can always get new ones without much difficulty. Chargers You remembered your gadgets, but when their batteries finally die, you realize you’ve left your chargers (lifelines?) behind. Sound familiar? Today’s menu of tech items we travel with is quite long: Tablets, cell phones, laptops, digital cameras and ereaders all have chargers that are easy to leave plugged in — at home. Before you panic about being disconnected and run out to purchase a new power line,
ABSTRACT HOME AUGUST 2015 w w w . a mg t t . co m
try to find a fellow traveler who will lend you a charger. It’s also worth checking with the front desk at a hotel to see if they have extras. (After all, chargers are said to be the most left-behind item at hotels.) Also, electronics stores are ubiquitous these days, especially in airports and cities. Consider powering up using a charger that’s plugged into a device on display. Some airports even offer charging stations (with built in chargers) that you can use for a fee. Flip-Flops We're not suggesting flip-flops as a fashion statement, but rather as a hygiene measure if you're headed to any spas, pools, shared bathrooms, or other moist and warm environments where a bit of extra foot protection might matter. Toothbrush The bad thing about toothbrushes is you mostly use them right before you leave. So instead of putting it in your backpack after using it you put it back in the same spot as you do every morning. It isn’t so bad if you forget it and take a long flight. Mostly
they include a toothbrush, some toothpaste and an eye patch to sleep. Pen This is one of the most forgotten items. Nothing can be more annoying than getting to the airport and needing to fill out a form and discovering you don’t have a pen. It may seem small, but it can frustrate the ‘bejeezus’ out of you especially when the airport doesn’t provide pens. Filling immigration forms on the plane or even info at check in will be a breeze once you are prepared. Sunscreen Leave the crispiness to your morning bacon. Don’t let your skin suffer painful burns and the risk of developing cancer due to lack of preparedness. A good sunscreen with adequate SPF is a must if you are traveling (especially to tropical locales). Without it, you may very well be experiencing one of your worst vacays ever. While you’re at it, pack some lip balm as well. Whether cold or hot weather, you’ll want to protect your smoochers.
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