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 Tips To Diwali Decor in the house, it can be decorated with light bulbs to the fullest. Cover the boundaries with colourful electric light bulbs. You can also use candles to get the traditional look. Scented candles in the terrace not only spread their aroma around, but they also help light crackers easily! You can also use flower rangoli near the entrance to add the ethnic look. Finish with diyas.
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iwali is celebrated with great enthusiasm by the Hindus across the globe. People clean and decorate their homes in the best possible way, so that Goddess Lakshmi will enter their premises and showers blessing on them. There are a number of ways to decorate home during the festival. If you want some bright ideas, then this article is for you. Decorate your Diya You can use small glass pieces and stick them on the edges of the diya. You can use kundans, moti and small cut mirrors which are easily available in
any handicraft shop. When you light the diya, which is decorated with mirrors, it appears as if there are many diyas around. This is a very simple but an interesting decorating concept. You can decorate diyas with flowers as well. With rose petals,
diyas not only add a festive look to the lamp but give that auspicious touch also. Garnish your Gallery To celebrate Diwali, people burst crackers on the terrace or verandah. As it is the free space
Drape up your Digs There's no home decor issue that a good pair of curtains won't solve. No matter what the theme and colour scheme of your home, you can't go wrong with ethnic, earthy colours, especially in the festive season. A change in window and wall drapes can pep up the dullest of rooms. Stick to solid, soothing colours or if you are feeling adventurous, you can go for curtains with interesting motifs too that can prettify your living space in an instant.
Alarm Systems For Your Home
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ne of the most controversial needs that humans experience is the need to be safe. Citizens and Governments have stressed the importance of this and have tried many systems and devices to ensure that this can take place. One of the most affordable and readily available of these systems is an alarm system. Choosing one for your home should be a simple task but with the many and various systems available, this can sometimes be a task.
Movement/Motion Detectors are an alarm system used to detect movement in-house through the use of ultrasonic or infrared detectors after the alarm has been set. If family members are constantly on the prowl at night for mid-night snacks then this may not be suited for this family type. The Magnetic Reed Switches alarms that alert the homeowner whenever a door or window in the house is opened after the alarm has been set, is advised. This way, little or no false alarm occurs. These are mostly used in small houses, offices, or apartments where there are a limited number of doors and windows. These are often self-contained and some are very easy to set-up and maintain. The CCTV Monitoring
System involves the use of video recorders to monitor activity at strategic points throughout your property at times with a security guard present to monitor the screen. Persons owning large properties or those with factories or farms often use this type of alarm system to catch thieves. You may need specialist help to set these up but they are very easy to use and understand. For families, maybe consisting of at least 3-5 persons duress alarms can be placed at various points throughout the home and pressed whenever an emergency takes place to notify the police immediately. Alarm systems should be high-end devices used to ensure safety but affordable enough so that everyone can attain them. One should also consider w w w . a m g tt. c o m
whether a burglar or fire alarm or a combination of both should be used, depending on the number of members in a family, their ages and the location of the home. Here are some simple tips that can aid in having an alarm system installed:
• The number of entry points in a house: kitchen door, living room door, porch area, garage. • The strategic place to put the control panel. Close to the door or out of sight in case a burglar might be attracted to the white device. • Provide sufficient amount of cables so that there is enough to reach the sensors at the exact location that they are finally going to be positioned.
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LIVING QUARTERS
Divali Cleaning Safety Tips
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he Festival of Light is a time for cheer. Nobody wants to be unable to enjoy the festivities due to illness or injury while doing house cleaning. It is important to follow the right precautions when cleaning and this article deals with that. • Keep kids away from the work area and from contact with cleaning products. • Read the manufacturer's label for warnings and directions before using products. • Don't ever mix ammonia and bleach, or any other strong cleaners together. • Remember that the labels of strong commercial products may not list all hazardous chemical ingredients. • Call the manufacturer for a Material Safety Data Sheet to find information about product ingredients and safety issues. • Reseal opened chemical products tightly. • Remember that soap and water usually do the job, and antibacterial products are 2
• Wear protective gear such as latex or rubber gloves and proper eyewear to protect your skin and eyes from harsh chemicals.
not usually necessary in the home. • Vinegar has many gentle but effective cleaning properties. • Ventilate your work area when using strong cleaning products. • Save money by making your own cleaning products Important Precautions: • Before mixing any recipes, be careful to store your products in well labeled containers, and never store your cleaners in empty food or drink containers lest they be mistaken as edible or potable. • Also keep the products
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stored well away from children. • Do not assume from the natural cleaning recipes that just any cleaning agent can be mixed together. Mixing together strong commercial products like ammonia and bleach can release poisonous gases. Specifically, never mix ammonia with chlorine bleach, toilet bowl cleaners, rust removers, or oven cleaners. And never mix household bleach containing sodium hypochlorite with acidic products like vinegar, toilet bowl cleaners, or liquid dishwasher detergent.
Added Safety Tips When cleaning high areas, ensure that ladders are sturdy and you wear protective apparel (especially around the eyes) for falling debris. On the ground level, take precaution near wet floors which cause a serious slipping hazard. It is also important to be careful when decorating. Deyas can be dangerous if not properly handled since they feature an open flame. Electric deyas are an option and so too are the LED lights that have become popular over the years. However, as with anything that uses live current sources, but careful when plugging and unplugging them. Also, be sure not to overload sockets and surge protectors with too many cords. Once your home is clean, you can enjoy the festivities in the best way possible. Shubh Divali!
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LIVING QUARTERS
Kids Room Decorating Ideas
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nce there are kids in your home there will no doubt be an influx of little visitors to your abode. Sleepovers and hang outs will be the norm. You can do yourself a favour by getting yourself some earplugs and a stiff drink to get through it all. Seriously though, you can do your children a big favour by not making them seem as lame as polka dot football socks to their friends by ‘tricking out’ their rooms. Make your children the talk of the town with these great kids’ room ideas. Super-Hero Themed Bedroom Decorating a superhero-themed room is relatively easy. Some kids own so many superhero action figures and vehicles that most of the work is already done for you. You can get creative with some of these toys and bases, arranging them in a way that they become part of the whole decorating theme. Not only that, but there's no shortage of licensed superhero quilt and comforter sets, sheeting, curtains and other essential room décor available for purchase. Super hero furniture stickers and giant-sized superhero vinyl peel-and-stick wall murals can give the room
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the finishing touch. So find out your son's favorite hero (or villain!) and get started. Outer Space Themed Bedroom A space themed room can be really tricked out, especially considering the many types of decor available. From rocket ship bedding to hanging completed models of starships and the space shuttle from the ceiling, you can take such a theme as far as you'd like. Glow-in-the dark star and planet appliqués go perfectly on a painted ceiling, or on walls designed as portholes looking out over the vastness of outer space. For little boys of all ages, this truly is the stuff that dreams are made of. Cinderella Bedroom For your little princess, decorating in a fairy-tale theme can make her bedroom an inspiring place to rest and relax. Soft pinks and lavender colors always go well against the wispy whites and lacy fabrics which can be used for bedding. From jeweled tiaras to full-sized wall murals and medieval themed furniture, the sheer number of options for a princess room is overwhelm-
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ing. Personalized wall art and girl name banners are among the most popular choices for making your little girl's room into something she can call her very own. Sports Themed Bedroom There is no limit to the variety of options available when it comes to children's room décor. Decoration can be done generally, covering soccer, cricket, basketball, and variety of different sports - or you can choose to specialize according to individual sport or even favourite teams. Bedding, furniture, rugs, wall decor and pretty much anything you'd ever need to transform your little one's room into exactly the type of sports theme you desire can be found with little effort. A big plus is a sportsthemed room isn't just limited to a child's bedroom. Playrooms and game rooms are perfect candidates for this type of decoration as well. The Zoo/Animal Room: Your “little monkey” may not be eligible for the zoo, but there is no reason why he/she shouldn’t be surrounded by animals (not the real or scary kind though).
The animal-themed room is versatile not only because it's perfect for both boys and girls, but also because it can be used to decorate bedrooms, playrooms, and even the baby’s nursery. Animal room decor can include jungle-inspired scenes and zoo animal prints, or it can have a softer and more playful feel with stuffed animals or cartoon creatures. There's no shortage of animal print bedding, both in faux striped skins or as quilted fabrics covered in all the different creatures of the jungle. Toddler beds and furniture for younger children are manufactured to come in various animal shapes and styles. A giraffe makes a perfect painted coat rack! Covering the walls of your child's room or baby's nursery with monkeys, tigers, lions, elephants, and zebras is akin to sending your child on his or her own private safari. Your own private touch rules all when it comes to kid’s room décor. These decorating ideas not only serve to spruce up the room, but they add fuel to your child’s imagination as well. Get your kid in gear this summer with these options.
LIVING QUARTERS
Identifying Plant Diseases And Pests
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ave you ever looked at your plants and felt a warm sensation building in your chest? That sensation is what is known as the power of nature and its ability to cheer us up. Plants help make a house look like a home, they also add a warm welcoming feel. It is always a wonderful idea to have a flower garden at your home. Plants have a magical beauty about them that often affects us all. This beauty is often hampered and destroyed by an enemy. The enemies of plants are plant diseases and pests. They are an inevitable part of any plant colony. Potential plant diseases live in all soil types. They flourish once given the right conditions and can work quickly to destroy plants. However you can fight back by controlling the way they spread. You can give your plants a surviving chance by placing them in their ideal situations. Ideal situations would be ones that offer enough sunlight, water, nutrients or shade. If a plant grows best in the shade keep it in the shade. Different plants require different things to grow, so be sure to find out what each 6
of your plants requires. Plants that are under stress from lack of sunlight or too much or too little water will be more susceptible to diseases. Fertilize the soil regularly to make sure that it has adequate nutrients for the plants to be healthy. If we as humans don’t take our vitamins our resistance drops and we often get sick. This is the same for plants. Fertilizing their soil regularly will make them better able to withstand the attacks of diseases. For a disease to thrive certain conditions must be available. These conditions are lack of nutrients, improper placement of plant and the presence of a
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disease organism. To have healthy plants you will need to create the correct conditions to prevent diseases. The first thing that you can do is remove any diseased plant that already exists. Next you need to spread out the remaining plants so that air is able to circulate. Many plant diseases thrive in high humidity. So the more air the soil gets the less likely the disease will thrive. Get all traces of weeds away from plants, they fight with plants for the nutrients of the soil. The next step is to control the plant pest. They spread diseases from plant to plant. One such pest is an aphid. Some
pests can be removed by the use of plant chemicals. These chemicals help keep pests away from plants. Chemicals must be used in moderation because they can cause extra harm to plants. They can either increase or decrease the ph level of the soil. The best way to apply chemical is directly to the soil in a diluted form. Sometimes the pest may be attracted to certain types of plant so research plant types and their most common pest. You will have a better understanding of the pest and how to prevent it being attracted to the plant. When going to buy plants inspect the entire plant especially the leaves. Look for any sign of a pest or disease. If you think that something is wrong with the plant do not purchase it. Controlling plant pests and diseases can be a chore but the more vigilant you are the less likely it is that your plants will suffer extreme damage. As said before do the research on plants and practice good plant habits. Soon you will see a reduction and elimination of the pest and diseases that damage your beautiful garden.
HOME OFFICE
Are You a Business Owner?
Take a Look at These Common Employee Issues
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veryone complains at some point, but really nobody likes a complainer. This is especially true in the workplace. Employers should be open to the concerns of employees, but these concerns should not become issues. It is important to know what affects your staff and move to make sure these things do not become problematic. Here are some of the most common issues. Lack of Accessibility It is not uncommon for the executive level leaders and senior managers to become isolated from the employees of the company. Maybe their offices are located at the top of the building and they always stay on that floor for the entire day. This creates a feeling of a hierarchy at play, and as an employee, if you are low on the totem pole, you will feel very far removed from the decision makers and it is really inconvenient to ask for a decision from the leader. Internal Pay Equity Employees are concerned particularly with pay compression, the difference in pay between new and longer-term employees. In organizations, with the average annual pay increase for employees around 4%, employees perceive that newcomers are also often better paid. 8
munication, and just about any other work related decisions you can think of, employees want fair treatment.
Complaints About Their Colleagues Employees also complain about their co-workers. Personality conflicts and other disputes might be brought to you to resolve. Wrong Fit An employee is hired to do the work and the first day he shows up, he ends up in a completely different role. This may be basically a form of lying to an employee. If an employee is hired to do this job, but is placed in another, he will forever be miserable. Favoritism Employees want the feeling that each employee is treated equally with other employees. If there are policies, behavioral guidelines, methods for requesting time off, valued assignments, opportunities for development, frequent com-
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Working Conditions Working conditions are always a main topic that the employees complain about frequently. One example is the cleanliness of the facility. Employees want a clean, organized work environment in which they have the necessary equipment to perform well. Other safety concerns such as issues related to comfort or convenience, and even complaints about discrimination or harassment could arise. Higher Salaries and Wages Wages is a frequent area of concern for most employees, so the complaints about this are always intense. The employees may complain about raises, job classifications, errors in payments and deductions, overtime calculations, or incentive systems. Salary is also a main area in which employees seek change. You can foster a work environment in which employees feel comfortable asking for a raise. Job Security With outsourcing, downsizing, globalization and pressure to meet the bottom line, job secu-
rity has become a scarce commodity. A substantial number of employees have been made to feel as valuable to the company as a paper clip. Therefore, the backlash has been that workers are changing jobs at a clip of every three years. Changing jobs has become a way of life in today’s workforce. The average person will have had 6 jobs between the ages of 18 and 38. Every year, about one-third of our workforce changes jobs, largely to take advantage of better opportunities. Freedom from Financial Insecurity Startup employees do not receive much in the way of salaries. But it does motivate them if they can get some benefits that would keep financial insecurity at bay. Even small loans and emergency funds work fine to address this. Workloads are Too Heavy The employees feel as if their workloads are too heavy and their time is spread too thinly if departments are understaffed, and it may become worse if there are layoffs; if they want to find educated, skilled, experienced staff, and your business demands grow, employers should help employees participate in continuous improvement activities.
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ELEGANT IDEAS
Superb Staircase Options
This well-crafted staircase tops off a modern interior with superb skylight features.
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ELEGANT IDEAS
This spiral staircase is a structural joy to look at from any angle. 12
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ELEGANT IDEAS
This luxury marble staircase allows for a fine furniture accent at its midway point.
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ELEGANT IDEAS
This modern apartment contains a staircase with glass barriers.
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ELEGANT IDEAS
Broad wooden steps and intricate wrought iron are the features which make these stairs stand out.
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KITCHEN
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Cooking With The Family
he kitchen is the perfect place for making memories. When you spend time baking, cooking and enjoying meals with your family, you create happy memories you and your children will cherish forever. The benefits of preparing and enjoying food as a family are clear. You save money and eat healthier meals. You create opportunities to connect and communicate with your children and spouse. And most importantly, you show love for your family when you spend time cooking and eating with them. Children of all ages need your attention and your time. By working together to create a meal or bake a batch of cookies, you spend valuable time together. So, here are 10 steps to get your family cooking up memories. Step 1: Teach small children the fun of cooking by helping them bake cookies and cakes. If you are short on time, you can use 16
schedule in baking cookies with your kids. Our schedules can be so hectic that something as simple as baking a batch of chocolate chip cookies can get skipped over. Write it down and do it. Step 4: If you have teenagers, let them play their favorite music while they wash the lettuce and set the table.
a boxed cookie mix and spend more time decorating. Step 2: Encourage the littlest ones to play pretend cooking. Kids love to play with real mixing bowls, strainers and wooden spoons. These make harmless toys and can be easily thrown in the dishwasher for quick cleanup. Step 3: If you live by your day-timer,
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Step 5: Work together with your spouse to prepare the dinner and use the time to catch up on each other's day. Step 6: Even if you are in a rush preparing dinner, remember to reduce your stress and focus on creating a fun atmosphere that naturally encourages the whole family to participate. Step 7: When spending time preparing food with your children, include lessons about healthy eating choices. Keep the conversation positive and avoid
listing foods they can't have. Step 8: On days where you anticipate time will be tight, consider taking a short cut by using a frozen stir-fry mix or pasta with a jar of pre-made sauce. Your family will appreciate your relaxed mood much more than a madefrom-scratch dinner. Step 9: Share the job of grocery shopping. One week have mom take one of the children as a helper, the next week dad can go with another child. Always work from a grocery list and let your children help you retrieve items and cross them off the list. Step 10: Have big family meals where you share about your day. Keep the conversation fun and avoid negative lectures over dinner. Remember to laugh. Take these steps today and make your kitchen a fun and memorable place for your whole family.
RECIPES
Dress Up Your Divali Salads
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salad isn’t really a salad without dressing. However, not all dressings can do a salad justice. These salads dressings can make your meals a true delight.
PARMESAN AND PEPPERCORN RANCH DRESSING Ingredients 2 cups plain lowfat yogurt 1 tablespoon mayonnaise 1/4 cup finely chopped green onion 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, or to taste 2 tablespoons milk (optional)
3/4 cup olive oil 1/2 cup soy sauce 3 tablespoons honey 1/4 cup water Directions In a 1 pint glass jar or larger, combine the garlic, ginger, olive oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, and water. Cover the jar with a tight fitting lid, and shake well. Remove lid, and heat jar in the microwave for 1 minute just to dissolve the honey. Let cool, and shake well before serving. Store covered in the refrigerator.
CREAMY BLUE CHEESE DRESSING Ingredients 2 1/2 ounces blue cheese 3 tablespoons buttermilk 3 tablespoons sour cream
Directions Stir the yogurt, mayonnaise, green onion, parsley, pepper, salt, and Parmesan cheese together. Stir in milk to make it as thin as you like it, or leave it thick. Taste and adjust the salt if needed, adding either more cheese or more salt. Refrigerate for about an hour before serving.
ASIAN GINGER DRESSING Ingredients 3 cloves garlic minced 2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger root 18
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2 tablespoons mayonnaise 2 teaspoons white wine vinegar 1/4 teaspoon sugar 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder salt and freshly ground black pepper
Directions In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, salt and pepper until thoroughly combined, and serve.
Directions In a small bowl, mash blue cheese and buttermilk together with a fork until mixture resembles large-curd cottage cheese. Stir in sour cream, mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and garlic powder until well blended. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
WHITE WINE VINAIGRETTE
THOUSAND ISLAND DRESSING II
Directions Place the oil, vinegar, garlic, sugar, salt and pepper into a jar with a tight fitting lid. Close the lid, and shake vigorously to blend. Use right away, or store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Ingredients 1 cup mayonnaise 1 cup sweet pickle relish 1 pinch ground black pepper 1 pinch salt
Ingredients 1/3 cup vegetable oil 1/3 cup white wine vinegar 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon white sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 pinch ground black pepper
ORANGE CITRUS VINAIGRETTE Ingredients 2/3 cup rice wine vinegar 1/3 cup orange juice 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 2 teaspoons minced garlic 1 teaspoon honey Directions Whisk together the vinegar, orange juice, oil, cilantro, mustard, garlic, and honey in a bowl; store in refrigerator.
BRIDAL
Creating A Seating Plan For Your Wedding Reception
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hould I seat Aunt Caroline next to Grandpa Bob? This is the type of question you may be faced with when creating a seating plan for the reception. Your goal is to ensure that everyone is comfortable and that there are no arguments or bickering especially on your big day. For a small wedding reception you may not need organized seating but for a group of 250 or more, it is highly advised. Here are some things to consider. 1) Organized seating i) Assign tables. If you are having a formal, buffet-styled theme, then assigned tables should be the preferred seating choice. Inform every one of their seating before-hand by sending the table number along with the wedding invitation or post a chart, listing persons alphabetically, at the door. Place a large numbered card on each table and have 20
or a chart can be presented at the door. Also, individual name cards should be placed on dessert forks in case anyone missed the sign. There will be persons who will deviate from this plan according to who they prefer to be seated next to, but an usher can assist with this problem.
the master of ceremonies announce the table to be served so that each guest can follow according to the number their table was assigned. It is better to have two serving stations, so that everyone can be served quickly in order to proceed with the rest of the evening. ii) Assign seating. Similar to assigned tables, these can be mailed to guests before hand
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2) Who sits where i) Where possible, seat guests in a male-female-male pattern around the table ii) Seat parents with children closest to the bathroom so that there is little to no disruption, if someone needs to use it. iii) If the dance floor divides the room, put guests of both bride and groom on either side to encourage socializing between the families. iv) If plenty of kids are invited, have a kids’ table but seat the parents close-by. v) If a large group of work col-
leagues are invited split the seating into two tables to keep the familiarity among the colleagues, but mix the bunch with married couples or singles so that they don’t feel like outcasts. 3) VIP’s i) Bridal table-If this is a circular table have the best man, sit next to the groom and the maid-of-honor sit next to the bride. Then, position the others in bridesmaidgroomsman fashion. ii) Head table. This can include only the bride, groom, bestman usually seated next to the groom and the maid of honor seated next to the bride. iii) Separate head table. This is reserved for the parents of the bride and groom, bosses from both companies and specially invited guests who the couple holds in high esteem.
FAMILY
Ideas for Early Holiday Shopping
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he Christmas season is fast approaching and soon enough, those of us who celebrate it, will all be consumed with trying to find the perfect holiday gifts for our loved ones. Christmas shopping is a daunting task for many, as finding quality, novel items is not only time consuming but down right difficult, especially for us ‘Trinis’, for whom the last minute rush has in itself become part of our Christmas tradition. As a result, we often end up selecting the first thing we see on the shelf and hope that the ‘giftee’ likes it. Hey, it’s the thought that counts right? To help make your Christmas shopping a little easier this year, here are some excellent gift giving ideas that your friends and family will truly appreciate and enjoy and that will give you the satisfaction of having everyone believe that you spent countless hours looking for the perfect gift for them. For the men in your life, the cliché “socks and ties” just would not do this Christmas! There are so many gadgets and gizmos out there that any tech- savvy male would love to have, especially one that he can show off to his friends and boast about. The latest model Canon EOS-7D Digital SLR Camera will have him looking like a pro and he’ll be the envy of all his friends, the only problem is he’ll be following you around like paparazzi with this one. Canon’s latest contribution to the HD(high definition) trend is its VIXIA HG20 Hard Disk Drive Camcorder, said to deliver optimal image quality, and one
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gift your dad, husband or brother is sure to love. This is a good gift, especially since, next Christmas or birthday; you can then get him the HD television or DVD player to complete the set, so your gift giving is covered for a while. Home theatre systems are always a safe buy, with Bose being the top rated on many tech sites, especially important if you are looking for the best quality. Clothing for men is still an option, just be original. A smart blazer or patent leather shoes are an improvement to any wardrobe, just ensure you know his correct size and colour preference. Classic belt buckles, tie clips and cuff links are great gifts for treasured employees/ers and Cartier has a great selection of all of these. For a more personal touch, you can have them engraved with his initials. Men love their whiskey, and a bottle of the finest will make a great gift when you are unsure of the man’s likes or dislikes. If he does not drink at least he will have it for entertaining purposes. Go with the timeless favourites like Johnnie Walker Black/Blue, Highland Park, Lagavulin, The Glenrothes and Auchentoshan. For the professional male or female, something functional that also enhances the aesthetics of their office would be appreciated. How about a staple free stapler, or a perpetual calendar that never needs replacing, or a world clock that gives the time in different time zones for the jet setting executive? All these items are functional and can serve as conversation pieces. An-
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other great idea for professionals is a designer leather card holder or briefcase which gives a classy, stylish and professional look which you will be credited for creating. The internet facilitates finding such items easily and quickly and they can be ordered at the click of a mouse, so you can do your shopping on your lunch break without even leaving your desk. Christmas shopping for women is always seen as tricky territory, but it does not have to be. Women love clothing, shoes, jewellery, perfume and gift cards/ certificates. Get any one of these and she’ll be happy. When choosing clothing, stick with the latest trends as you do not want her to look outdated, but remember the age bracket you are catering for, buying a mini-dress for your grandmother is not a good look by any standards. Tunics, rompers and skinny jeans are the latest trends and can be dressed up or down to suit the occasion, so stick to simple styles. The latest styles in shoes are gladiator type sandals and heels and most designers have options in these styles. Diamonds are definitely a girl’s best friend, and you can never go wrong with a gorgeous piece of jewellery for that special someone. Bangles are all the rage now and a diamond encrusted bangle would make her love you forever. Statement pieces such as large rings with semi precious stones and also chunky necklaces make a great gift for the fashion forward woman. You can also find unusual, funky and
artistic rings and earrings that would make anyone stand out in a crowd in many boutiques. Today’s woman is always on the go and time is always of the essence, so why not get her an impressive watch, Fendi and Bulova have gorgeous options for exquisite tastes. Coco Chanel, Liz Taylor, Liz Clairborne are three names synonymous with class, poise and beauty and if any of the women in your life possess these characteristics, then a fragrance from any of these women’s fragrance lines would suit her. A person’s fragrance preference is subjective however, and unless you know which scents they like, a better option would be to purchase a gift card or certificate so that they can choose their scents themselves. Gift cards and certificates take much of the guess work out of shopping as the ‘giftee’ can choose which gift they prefer at your expense. Spa certificates are always a hit, as which woman would not enjoy a day of pampering at the spa? Another thoughtful option is booking your loved ones a night or two at any of our local hotels, for a relaxing getaway. There are many options such as the Hyatt Regency, Carlton Savannah, the Marriot, just to name a few. Such a gesture would show you really care and would definitely be a difficult gift to top by anyone. Hopefully, these gift ideas will make your Christmas shopping a breeze this year and everyone will be pleased with your thoughtfulness. Happy shopping everyone!
WARDROBE
POWDER ROOM
Give Your Hair A Body Boost
Ways to style thinning hair
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ur bodies experience a barrage of physical changes as we get older. Our skin loses its elasticity, our eyes lose their shine, our nails become dark and brittle and our hair loses its fullness. There isn’t much we can do to reverse these effects, but there are ways to feign a youthful appearance with some skilful styling tips. This article deals specifically with styling thinning hair in an effort to ad fullness and volume to your coif.
manent dyes, braiding or styling. All of these seem benign until your hair starts to fall out from over treating it.
Be careful with Colour. The wrong colour can draw attention to sparse hair. To make balding spots less obvious, if you have dark hair and a light scalp, consider a lighter hair color. And if you have a dark scalp and light hair, consider a darker hair color. Do not highlight, frost, or tip the ends as this draws the eye right to the area you are trying to conceal. Stick to natural, medium brown and auburn to create overall consistency. The eye will be drawn to the colour of your hair and not the spaces between the strands.
Create the right Cut. If you opt for a short bob cut, the hair is shorter and springs back a little more than when it is longer. Short cuts are good for creating fuller hair because it is not weighed down as much. This is very natural and a healthy way to get fuller hair. This should be considered one of the best tips for getting fuller hair available. In addition to this, there are products and tips which assist fuller hair growth. Washing with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner gives luster and thickness to your do. Also root-lift sprays work wonders where thin hair appears. Once these products are utilized, be sure not to make the old mistakes of parting your hair. It exposes bald spots and emphasizes the thinness. Eat Right. Your diet largely contributes to the condition of your hair. A healthy, shiny head of hair is normally associated with a good protein rich diet. In several instances, thin hair can be attributed to a poor diet. As such, there are supplements which can be added to your diet. Biotin is a great supplement that makes your hair supple and lush. B Vitamins work wonders for hair as well. It should also be noted that all diets should be supported by an adequate amount of water intake.
Avoid Hair Stressors. It is not enough to add strength and body to your hair; you also have to quit doing the things that are contributing to the hair loss. For good, fuller hair always avoid excessively treating your hair to per-
There will always be changes to your body as your grow older. However, there is still much that can be done. After all, you aren’t dead yet. Get started with these tips and won’t lose any hair over the results.
Use the right styling products. Gel is the worst product for this hair type. Gel binds thin hair together in clusters, making the scalp even more exposed and adding shine—attracting unwanted attention. Mousse is best, as it dries soft and each strand remains independent. Mousse is virtually unnoticeable, with light to medium hold. Thin hair does not need a high-hold product.
Casual Fashion For Women Pushing 40
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hey say 30 is the new 20 and 40 is the new 30, but that doesn’t apply where fashion is concerned. Dress your age. If you don’t know how to do that, this article can help. T-Shirts and Blouses Leave the colorful screenprinted T-shirts emblazoned with witty slogans at home as these garments speak to a much younger teen or 20-something demographic. T-shirts should be simple and well cut without being too revealing. A solid colored V-neck or swoop-neck shirt, although basic, allows for easy pairing with dark pants or other accessories. When selecting a blouse, choose light or pastel colors that accentuate your skin tone. As with any top; look for garments that are fitted, as this type of cut will complement your figure. Men's Oxford-style shirts are a great way to add a vintage touch to a look, as long as they are not too oversized. Pants and Skirts Khaki or dark-colored slacks add elegant understatement to any outfit. When selecting jeans; avoid styles that speak too loudly or are intended for a younger age group. Pass over jeans with excessive flarw w w . a m g tt. c o m
ing of the legs (bell bottoms or boot-cuts), faux holes and tears or lots of artificial fading. Instead, opt for straight fitting or cuffed jeans with a clean cut and low pocket count---excess pockets add unnecessary bulk. Skirt length is relative to your body type, but avoid drastically short miniskirts. Pairing a skirt of mid-thigh length with stockings allows you to be casual, comfortable and refined at once. Shoes and Heels Several pairs of comfortable flats are nearly a necessity in any woman's wardrobe, as they are inexpensive and allow for easy color coordination. Black or dark-colored flats add a touch of sophistication to the classic "jeans and a T-shirt" combination. Though flats are great all-purpose footwear, don't underestimate your worn pair of Chuck Taylors or other lowcut sneakers. These will add character to any look. A pair of leather sandals makes casual dress simple---as long as your toes are ready for the attention. When choosing heels for casual wear; select a pair that is relatively low, balanced and easy to walk in. Avoid dramatic stilettos, as these are anything but casual.
OCTOBER 2015
ABSTRACT HOME
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MEDICINE CABINET
HOME GYM
Stay On Top Of Your Sugar:
Understanding Diabetes
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hat exactly is Diabetes you wonder? Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life. Diabetes can cause serious health complications including heart disease, blindness, kidney failure, and lower-extremity amputations. It is one of the top ten leading causes of death in the Caribbean and the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. There are different types of diabetes. The major types are: Type 1 Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes and Pre-Diabetes. Type 1 diabetes results from the body's failure to produce insulin, the hormone that "unlocks" the cells of the body, allowing glucose to enter and fuel them. Type 2 diabetes results from insulin resistance (a condition in which the body fails to properly use insulin), combined with relative insulin deficiency. As we delve deeper into the facts about diabetes, it would be remiss of us not to identify its symptoms. Frequent urination, excessive thirst, unexplained weight loss, extreme hunger, sudden vision changes, skin dryness, tiredness, tingling in the hands and feet, sores that take long to heal and a propensity to infection are some of the symptoms of diabetes. In the case of the abrupt onset of Type 1 diabe-
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tes, nausea, vomiting, or stomach pains may accompany some of the symptoms listed above. The risk factors for developing diabetes play an important role in its prevention and treatment, hence identifying such risks is vital. Autoimmune, genetic, and environmental factors are involved in developing Type 1 diabetes. Risk factors for type 2 diabetes include older age, obesity, a family history of diabetes, prior history of gestational diabetes, impaired glucose tolerance, physical inactivity, and race/ ethnicity. Other specific types of diabetes, which may account for one percent to two percent of all diagnosed cases, result from specific genetic syndromes, surgery, drugs, malnutrition, infections, and other illnesses. Factors which also influence the risk of diabetes are high blood pressure, high fat levels, high alcohol intake, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle. Because there are different types of diabetes, the treatments for diabetes also vary. Healthy eating, physical activity, and insulin injections are the basic therapies for type 1 diabetes. Blood glucose testing as well as proper diet and exercise are the basic therapies for type 2 diabetes. In addition, many people with type 2 diabetes require oral medication, insulin, or both to control their blood glucose levels. People with diabetes should see a health care provider who will monitor their diabetes control and help them learn to manage their diabetes.
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Five Tips For A Home Gym Transition
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hile the convenience of a home gym seems obvious from the outset, people who visit the gym know it just isn’t the same. While the gym always offers you more, you can still get great results at home if you make the switch. Here are some tips to help you through that transition. Tip 1. Take the time to decide what type of training is important to you, not to the rest of us. Build your home workout space, and tools and build your workouts around that. Tip 2. Stick with the basics. You can always add new implements later. When making the switch from gym to home, the basics will keep you grounded. Too many new angles are distracting. Tip 3. Use an actual timepiece. Commit to your chosen time block — 45 minutes, 60, whatever — and don’t stop until finished. Plus, those who start at a set time are much more likely
to get the job done. The whenI-finish-this-chore workouts rarely take place. Tip 4. Get a radio. Music keeps you moving between sets. Danger: Distractions have a stronger pull at home than at the gym where you trekked for a specific reason. At home it’s easier to quit early. Tip 5. Turn off the phone! That one’s almost too stupid to type, but it should never be overlooked. Cell phones are a distraction and can seriously impair your workout and subsequent progress.
GARAGE
PETS
Modernize Your Garage
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e all think of a garage as a place to park our cars or stock our tools. However, the 2015 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
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 quickly look something up. You can even source online parts.
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Manage Your Pet’s Mange
here are two types of mange that dogs suffer from. Veterinarians scrape the skin of the dog and analyze the tissue to determine which form of mite has infected the dog. The most common form of mange is demodectic mange i.e. cigar shaped mites. Less common are sarcoptic mites, which are round in shape. Sarcoptic mites infect humans as well and are then called scabies. Mange causes itching of the skin and results in hair loss, red and raised patches of skin, thickened skin and the secretion of puss. Mange can become a life threatening illness and occurs in dogs that have a lowered immune system. Preventing an overgrowth of mange involves protecting and boosting the immune system.
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Check puppies for signs of itching and skin irritation. Puppies are far more likely to be infected with mange. However, adult dogs exposed to puppies with mange can easily become infected themselves. This is especially true if the adult dog has a weakened immune system or is an older dog. If you have a new puppy that you suspect has mange, try to keep him isolated from other dogs until you get him to a veterinarian.
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Look for symptoms of other diseases that cause a low-
ered immune system. Diseases such as cushings, hypothyroidism and diabetes, compromise the immune system and allow mange to spread out of hand. Treating the disease will boost immune system function and help prevent the development of mange.
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If possible, avoid steroid use for your dog. Although it is unavoidable for some conditions, steroids will lower the immune system and create a more inviting environment for mites.
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Wash your hands. The main prevention for any illness, washing your hands can stop the spread of mites to you and your dog. If you come into contact with an unhealthy dog or any animal, you could transfer mange or other diseases to your pet through physical contact.
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Boost the immune system with nutritional supplements. Essential fatty acids, especially omega-3 fatty acids and GLA, can soothe the skin issues while offering support to immune function. These oils are taken internally on a daily basis. Vitamin powders that include zinc, Vitamins C and E and lecithin are also beneficial for maintaining a healthy immune system.
TRAVEL
Secure Home, Secure Mind
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Things to Consider when traveling
inally heading off to that vacation you’ve been pining for, lucky you. You’re ecstatic and each item on the ‘travel checklist’ has been neatly crossed though, right to left. You’re set. What about your house? Securing your home while you’re away is an important element that often gets a backward, “Hunny, did you lock the doors?” Be wary of returning to a *dancehall where once you had a home. (*Dancehall: Trinibago slang for burglary where all household items are stolen, leaving your house empty, like a dance floor.) A little effort and some planning can greatly reduce your chances of property theft while you’re away. One key approach is to create the appearance that your home is occupied; we can say that unoccupied homes are a preferred option to thieves. The length of time you will be away can determine the extremities of your actions, but better safe than a dancehall. Keep it well lit. Consider light timers that turn on and off as you normally use when you're at home. Or for short trips change the light bulbs in your porch lights and turn them on before
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leaving. Well-lit entrances to homes are an irritation to burglars, lets go extra bright and aim for complete prevention. Cut back bushes that block the view to your home's entrances. (Have you ever considered planting rose bushes under ground floor windows? Thorns, free, easy, painful deterrent to wanna be burglars.) Skip putting your garbage and recycling at the curb before you leave, especially if you’ve made expensive large purchases. A quick look through your receptacles will tell a burglar what new high-tech items you recently added to your home. (Do not
ABSTRACT HOME OCTOBER 2015 w w w . a mg t t . c o m
underestimate burglars as just petty thieves. They are known to be organized tradesmen who quietly stalk their mark waiting for the right time to make their move) Lock doors & windows. Obviously, you want to make sure your doors are locked whenever you leave your house. Check and recheck that all your windows and doors are securely locked. If you make this a habit, you'll avoid having to turn around to double-check after traveling miles down the road. Consider the option of burglar alarms that report a breakin directly to the authorities so even while you’re away, you’re covered. Tell a neighbor about your absence, you might also want to give them a key and ask them to pop in for a site visit every once in awhile. Also ask them to pick up any flyers, newsletters, and other deliveries that arrive while you're away – another surefire sign of an unoccupied residence. Park cars in the driveway. What are friends for if not to park a car in your driveway ever so often while you’re away to give the impression of an occupied house?
Don't adjust window treatments. Often the issue of shades and blinds are a tricky topic when it comes to home security. On the one hand, it is helpful to draw shades and blinds to prevent would-be burglars from peering in through first floor windows. But on the other hand, if your blinds are normally open and you only close them when you go out of town, and they then stay closed for a length of time, to people watching the house, it may send the wrong signal: ‘no one’s home, game time!’ Advice, on the fence is, if you don’t have someone to come in and adjust often, leave the blinds just slightly spaced with nothing valuable (see below) in plain sight. Especially don't close your shades and blinds if they are normally left open. Don’t leave valuables in sight – it hurts none to take a walk around your house in the days prior to travelling. Look in the windows and see if any valuable items are blatantly visible. Yes it’s your house but valuables and tempting items (just about anything these days) left in plain sight might seem as a taunt to the narcissistic burglar.
TOP UP
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