LIVING QUARTERS Disclaimer: The views or opinions presented in this publication are solely those of the writers and do not necessarily represent those of the company. Employees of ABSTRACT MEDIA GROUP COMPANY LIMITED are expressly required not to make defamatory statements and not to infringe or authorize any infringement of copyright or any other legal right. Any such article is contrary to company policy and is outside the scope of the employment of the individual writer concerned. The company will not accept any liability in respect of such article, and the employee responsible will be personally liable for any damages or other liability arising.
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here is a certain mystique and charm about antique furniture that just adds warmth to a home interior. These vintage pieces are usually strongly built with a one of a kind style that is mimicked nowadays, but not quite recaptured. This is not a knock on modern pieces, but there are some definite pros to owning antiques. PROS:Value: Some antique furniture continues to go up in value as it ages. This depends on things like manufacturer, date and where it was crafted.
Why Buy Antique Furniture? Information: Many times people get lucky and there is an interesting bit of history or a story that goes along with a piece of antique furniture. This can be a big plus in many collectors’ opinions. Even if you are not a collector, acquiring a piece with some interesting history can still be fun and perhaps become a conversation piece for visitors. Style: Many styles of furniture have been copied; however, nothing can replace the original item. Some styles do not exist in modern furniture design at all, which makes antiques even more appealing. CONS:Maintenance: Most antique furnishings are very delicate and therefore have to be cleaned a certain way. Examples of this are special stains for wood, and polish for silver and brass accents. Maintaining appropriate care for antique furniture can be-
by you and ten other people. That may be a slight over-exaggeration. The point is that if you have a lot of people going in and out of your place, antique furniture may not be very practical. With antique furniture, you have to very careful not to spill anything on it for fear of stains that cannot be removed. You also have to be careful not to scratch antique wood, or rip delicate upholstery.
come rather costly. Theft: The risk of antique furniture being stolen is actually higher than you might think. Crooks know they can get a good price for antiques from the right buyer. Question of practicality: Antique furniture adds elegance and style to any room, unless that room happens to be shared
These are just a few examples of things to consider before investing good money into antique furniture. Do not make the mistake of rushing into making a decision before getting the facts. Do some research into the piece(s) you are looking at to find out how to care for them, and what they can be exposed to, for example: smoke, sunlight and humidity. It would be a shame to spend the money on an antique just to have it ruined by too much humidity.
Keep Your Flowers Fresh erly monitored and maintained in order to truly reap their benefits. Here are some tips to keeping your flowers fresh.
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beautiful bouquet of flowers can surely perk up the décor of a room. If you are lucky, the flowers may also add a lovely fragrance as well. However, cut flowers placed in vases need to be prop-
Clean is Key The real key to keeping flowers fresh longer? Simply changing the water frequently. Use a very clean vase with no residual dish soap and room temperature water to provide the best conditions for most flowers. Change the water at least every other day. If you're worried about disturbing the flower arrangement, simply hold the vase under the faucet and let the water flush out. Aspirin Even though you may not have heard of this trick, it’s a triedand-true way to keep roses and
other cut flowers fresh longer. Put a crushed aspirin in the water before adding your flowers. Similarly, a capful of Listerine added to the water will keep it fresh as it works as an antibacterial. Additional tips: • Using a sharp knife, cut flower stems at an angle about 1 to 1.5 inches from the bottom under lukewarm water to prevent air bubbles from forming. • Stems tend to seal up, so the cutting process will have to be repeated every couple days. • Remove any leaves that fall below the level of the water, as foliage promotes bacteria and causes flowers to wilt or never open. w w w . a m g tt. c o m
• Keep your fresh flowers away from any ripening fruit or vegetables, or dying flowers. These items give off ethylene gas which can damage fresh flowers. • Keep flowers away from any draughts, direct heat or sunlight. • Throughout the week, continuously remove any flowers or leaves that are wilting.
MARCH 2016
ABSTRACT HOME
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LIVING QUARTERS
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Establish Your Easter Décor
aster time is just around the corner. Now that Carnival is over, you can spend some time catching up on the latest home décor trends for 2016 and brightening up your home with some pretty pastel colors combined with familiar Easter motifs to add whimsy and charm to your space. SAY GOODBYE TO BEIGE Move over grey, beige and white walls, rooms in 2016 favor more drama and glamour. Dark, moody walls in deeplysaturated hues like navy and plum add the perfect backdrop to any room. Mark D. Sikes of Chic People, Glamorous Places, Stylish Things says that "Navy blue is a big trend for 2016. I'm seeing a lot of the shade on the runways, on the streets, in editorials and in chic interiors.” Navy is considered a new neutral for its ability to blend with other colors and styles. If a darker shade on the wall scares you, there are other ways to incorporate it into your décor and make it a focal point. You could start with a piece of furniture like a sofa or sectional, do an 2
accent wall or use dark colored cushion covers and curtains. Easter decorating idea: Do a table centerpiece of pastel colored spring flowers and butterflies and display it against a dark colored table runner. You can even do a mix of pastel and dark colored flowers or sprigs to add contrast in the arrangement. MIX AND MATCH METALLICS Decadent gold, demure bronze, lavish silver, refined nickel and copper are bringing a warmth and regality that just can't be achieved by their matte counterparts. Metallic accessories can completely change the look of a space, once it is not overdone. Trending now is the use of few pieces throughout the room in different metallics. Try incorporating the glamour by adding a sunburst mirror, a bold metallic centerpiece or vases of varying heights and metallics. An easy update could be replacing existing fixtures with copper pendant lights or painting an old table using silver metallic spray paint.
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Easter decorating idea: Use gold, silver or bronze spray paint to spruce up an inexpensive wreath, which you can decorate with pastel colored painted eggs and hang in the kitchen or on the front door. The contrast of rich metallic against pastel hues will bring a touch of whimsy. You can also use metallic candle holders with pastel colored candles, or fill a metallic bowl with pastel colored painted eggs as a centerpiece. INTERCHANGEABLE ACCENTS Design blogger Arianna Vargas says that "In 2016, we'll see a trend towards chameleon decor. Instead of settling on one fixed look, people will opt for a versatile neutral base and use bigimpact accents to easily change their decor." So always leave room for change. Paint your rooms in colors that can accommodate a wide range of color palettes and accessories, so that your home can be easily updated or decorated for special occasions. Also, less is more when it comes to decorative objects around the house. Leave behind tacky, purposeless accessories
and instead choose objects, artwork and photos with personal significance to keep your decorative collection from getting out of hand. Easter decorating idea: Invest in a statement vase that can stand alone or be used to hold different pieces as the seasons change. Start with your Easter floral arrangement! BLOSSOMING PRINTS Popping up everywhere in fashion and décor are florals and chintz. These blossoming prints can be mixed with other graphic patterns like stripes for a modern look. Try incorporating these prints for cushion covers, table cloths or table runners, curtains or upholstery. Easter decorating idea: Use a floral table cloth and accessorize with a monochromatic Easterthemed centerpiece. In 2016, don’t be afraid to bring different colors, textures and finishes into your space. You’ll be surprised at how far you can push the boundaries and still create a cohesive look.
LIVING QUARTERS
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Pre Easter Cleaning Tips
hough it's definitely not the most fun thing about the season, cleaning a little before the holidays can make things a lot less stressful than trying to scramble to do everything at once. CLEANING YOUR PRECIOUS KNICKKNACKS If you have a great collection of knick knacks that you love to display, but hate to clean, here's some good news: there's a quick and easy way to clean your figurines. Simply place your knickknacks inside the kitchen sink and spray them with window cleaner. Move them to a paper towel to air dry. This works for glass, china, and glazed figurines. KITCHEN Tackle the Fridge - Clear out food and leftovers that are past their prime. Wipe down shelves and make room for new items. Wipe down the handles and doors with Multi-Surface cleaner or vinegar. It gently cleans even stainless steel with a streak-free shine and a fresh, clean scent. Declutter - Clear everything off the counters that isn't involved in cooking. Put whatever has been slowly piling up, like mail and magazines, in piles: throw
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away, keep and recycle. This will make clearing the clutter more manageable. Work From the Top Down - Start by dusting the tops of cabinets. Then wipe down the cabinet doors, followed by countertops, lower cabinet doors, then the floors. Clean the Stovetop - Crumbs can build up in the space between the stove and the countertop. Use a stiff brush to loosen and remove them in no time. Once the crumbs are gone, wrap the bristles with a cloth dipped in warm soapy water to degrease that area. Manage the Microwave - In the microwave, boil a cup of water with a few slices of lemon in it for one minute. The steam softens stuck-on food, while the
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lemon water can be used with a sponge to wipe away grease and residue.
a candle go a long way toward making a bathroom look and feel welcoming.
BATHROOM Let the Light In - Take down your bathroom light fixtures and clean them with glass wipes. Dust off your light bulbs too - you'll be surprised at how much brighter the bathroom looks when you're done.
Clear Reflection - Make sure the mirror is free of mascara smudges and water spots by wiping it down with Window cleaner.
Sweep first, then mop - Vacuum or sweep the floors, using the crevice tool to get behind sinks and toilets and to get into corners. This will clear the floor of hair and dust before you wipe down the baseboards and mop the floor, leaving a clean and shiny floor. Soap Up the Sink - Use an old toothbrush to get behind the sink faucet and knobs, and don't forget the sink pedestal or lower cabinets where dust, hair and makeup can build up. Mind Your Medicine Cabinet Yes, guests will peek. Tidy things up, dispose of old medications and stash items you'd rather not be seen. Spruce Up - Fresh, neatly folded towels, scented hand soaps and
LIVING ROOM Freshen Up Fabrics - Get pet hair off of upholstery with your favorite pet hair remover. Vacuum upholstered surfaces, then spot clean and use a fabric freshener where needed. Add a few pillows or throws for a fresh look guests will love. Make It Shine - Dust can build up on your most valuable electronics including computers, televisions and other items in your living room. Whether it's electronics Spray, dry cloths, or wipes, these formulas remove dust, dirt and grime from household electronics, leaving behind only a streak-free shine. Get Rid of Smudges - Doorknobs, light switches, phones and more can get smudges and fingerprints. Give them a good cleaning with a glass and surface wipe - this is a great job for the kids to tackle.
LIVING QUARTERS
How To Attract Birds To Your Garden
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any gardeners want to encourage birds into their gardens. Whilst it's true that they can cause damage, they can also help you because they have an enormous appetite for quantities of insect pests. Plus, there is nothing like the sound of beautiful birds chirping in the morning. Make them feel at home Reduce the opportunities for predators like cats and chickenhawks by placing feeders where the birds can spot danger easily. Avoid using garden netting, especially during the breeding season, and place feeders away from your house to minimize the risk of birds colliding with windows. Keep Water Close You may have remembered to put out food, but a supply of clean, unfrozen water is just as important, both for drinking and bathing. Use a sloping bath with water 2.5cm-10cm deep, which will allow different species to bathe in comfort. It helps to add a flat stone or two to give birds an easy way in and out. Try to position the bath
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some¬where prominent where it won't be a chore to clean, and refill regularly. Stone bird baths are the traditional if pricey choice, but birds won't turn up their beaks at a dustbin lid sunk into the soil and filled with water. Plus, instead of just a static birdbath, add a dripper, mister or bubbler to create motion. Birds will see and hear the water from great distances, and many curious species will come to investigate. If you have the space and budget, consider a fountain birdbath or even larger water feature. Offer the Right Food Most birds eat most types of nuts, seeds, fats and fruit. However, here are a few tips for you to try: • Keep your feeder near to cover if you can but not o close that squirrels or other food stealers get near. • Try to keep all feeding stations off the ground. Although, putting a bit of feed on the ground to attract ground feeding birds is good.
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• Don’t put feeding stations too near to nest boxes as the noise may affect any occupants. • Feeders are perfect, try different feeds for different types of birds. Some prefer seeds, fruit and fat. • Experiment with various types of feed to attract different types of birds. Try sunflower hearts, millet seeds, varied seed mixes as well as fat products and live feed too. Sterilise feeders Remove mouldy seed from feeders and sterilize them regularly to reduce the risk of spreading diseases. Clean them more frequently when there are lots of birds in your garden and/ or when you suspect that some are sick – keep an eye out for lethargic birds sitting around with their feathers fluffed up. Pour over some boiling water now and again to clean off. Plant the Right Stuff How you garden can affect the number of birds that visit. Planting native plants helps
enormously. Birds are attracted to numerous tropical fruits that are found in most yards. Be sure to include a few. Clothing walls and fences with climbing plants and shrubs can turn them into a living boundary, providing cover and nesting sites that are unavailable on unplanted vertical surfaces. If you have the space, planting a native hedgerow, which can be left untrimmed, will give birds a really good habitat to nest and feed in. In the same vein, be careful about what you plant as some plants are toxic and can keep birds away as well. Reduce Chemical Usage Reducing the amount of chemicals you use in your garden will have a beneficial effect on birds, as well as other forms of wildlife. There are several organic options to use in your garden. Generally, you don’t need much more than a little manure or compost anyway. These are simple and effective methods of ensuring a safe and happy habitat for the birds in your garden.
HOME OFFICE
Improve Your Entrepreneurial Creativity
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reativity is one of the most underrated aspects of business. This is unfortunate since creativity is the major driving force in entrepreneurship. While the products one sells may not be novel, the way in which they are marketed and the creativity in the customer service can propel them to new heights. This article shows how to maximize the creative juices within a company in an effort to fulfill entrepreneurial capacity. Colour can Boost Creativity Colour can help your creativity skyrocket. It may sound frivolous, but it actually does work. Smart employers know that the mood their office décor sets directly impacts the mood of their staff. Calm, neutral colours make them more relaxed and a less stressed worker can contribute more than one whose mind is burdened. Similarly, scientists have posited that brief glimpses of green can improve your creative performance! Another study stated that seeing red or blue can have different effects on our cognitive performance: red helps us with detail-oriented tasks where we need to focus, whereas blue en8
hances creative performance. With that said, it might be wise to incorporate blue and green into your office surroundings. It doesn’t necessarily mean you have to paint your office blue or green. Accent pieces can subliminally add to the décor and creativity effectively. Keeping a Journal This may seem outdated, but journals still have their place. For some, this form of diarykeeping keeps us sane while for others it is merely a way to help remember things and organize schedules. In any event, having all your ideas in one place, like a journal or folder, is a great way to get everything into one ‘pot’ to start simmering. Having your ideas organized and easily accessible makes it easier to jot down quick thoughts or add and expand on past ideas. The great thing about this format is that technology makes it even easier. You don’t even have to look for a pen anymore. Audio journals can be kept as voice notes on your smart phone. Working in Reverse Okay, we know this sounds bad, but working backwards is actually a good thing. It can be quite
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beneficial to creativity to set a long term goal first, then create a plan for how to achieve it. Don’t just dive into tasks. When it comes to keeping your creative spark bright, working backwards can provide unique and often smarter solutions to problem solving. It forces you to think bigger as you start the process closest to the actual goal. Thrive On Diversity One of the world’s biggest problems is acceptance. Bigotry and racism is rife throughout the globe and as you can see, nothing good comes from it. It is important to be diverse overall and especially when it comes to business. Leveraging diversity is a powerful skill. However, we aren’t just talking from a cultural perspective (though culture does shape our thought process). Here we are talking about diversity of thought and utilizing different ways of thinking. As a leader or team member, you need to recognize where you and your team are strong. Similarly, you need to know your weaknesses. If you know you are not adept at one part of the creative process, seek others who are. Bounce thoughts off them and listen to
the new directions their different thinking can provide. Challenge yourself to be open to other’s perspectives. This is a sure form of boosting the creative force behind any project. Breaks Are Necessary We spoke briefly about how stress can addle the brain. That is why it is important to take breaks in order to foster creativity. The best creative thinking comes when the brain has time to relax, make new connections and see things in a new way. This means that frequent and scheduled breaks can actually boost the creative spirit in the workplace. It should also be noted that taking breaks does not only apply to actually being in the office. Creativity is often sparked by nature and experience. Well-travelled people are often more creative than those who are not. Schedule occasional field trips. Get out of the office or wherever you run your business, and take your employees to visit other companies, conferences or even just parks. This can get them (and you) out of their everyday comfort zone and into a space where new thoughts and ideas can take hold.
TRIPLE BUTTER COMPLEX
TO NOURISH LIPS
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ELEGANT IDEAS
Cool Kid’s Rooms
Enhance the creative spirit of your children by surrounding them with bold colours.
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MARCH 2016
ABSTRACT HOME
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ELEGANT IDEAS
This large kid’s bedroom with play area has a modern feel. 12
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ELEGANT IDEAS
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MARCH 2016
ABSTRACT HOME
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ELEGANT IDEAS
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ELEGANT IDEAS
This children’s room also features a lovely study space.
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MARCH 2016
ABSTRACT HOME
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KITCHEN
Kitchen Lingo Part 2
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n the last issue of Abstract Home we took a look at some common cooking terms that any aspiring chef or cook may encounter. However, we barely scratched the surface. This week we share some more cool kitchen lingo. Read and enjoy part two. Acidify- To add acid such as vinegar, lemon or lime juice. Aerate- To add air, as in sifting flour. Butterfly- Splitting meats or shrimp down the middle without cutting all the way through and spreading flat. Resembles a butterfly. 'Blast': Kitchen slang for rapid heating in a fierce oven or microwave. Caramelize- 1. Topping with sugar and melting over high heat as in Creme Brulee. 2. Roasting fruits and vegetables until brown to release their natural sugar and give
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them more flavor. Cure- Using salt or smoke to preserve foods. Chiffonnade: Slicing lettuce or rolled salad leaves into a 'needle-like shreds.' Dredge- To coat with bread crumbs, flour, cornmeal or sugar. Macerate: To soak food in a liquid as a means of marinating or infusing flavours. (Traditionally done to fresh and dried fruits) Refresh: To run an ingredient beneath cold (or sometimes hot) water to prevent further cooking, prevent colour loss and to remove excess starch. Sweat: To gently cook. Commonly used with regard to vegetables. Sear- To brown meat quickly over high heat in order to seal in the juices.
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RECIPES
Basic Recipes With Simple Twists
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ot everyone can be a chef. However, almost anyone can cook effectively once they know the basics. Here are five easy recipes that add up to one spectacular meal. Enjoy!
STEWED CHICKEN Ingredients 1 (4 pound) whole chicken, cut into pieces 3 tablespoons finely chopped green onion 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1 teaspoon chopped onion 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1/4 cup brown sugar 1 cup water 1/2 cup canned coconut milk (optional) 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) 2 tablespoons ketchup 1 tablespoon butter Directions 1. Place chicken on a plate. Sprinkle the green onion, cilantro, garlic, onion, salt and pepper over it. Cover, and marinate for 30 minutes. 2. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pot over medium heat. Stir in the sugar, and cook until the sugar has melted into a nice golden brown syrup. Add the chicken pieces, and brown quickly while turning continu18
ously. Cover the pot, and let cook for 2 minutes. 3. Pour in 1 cup of water, coconut milk and pepper flakes. Replace the lid, and cook over medium heat for 10 minutes. Stir in the ketchup and butter. Continue cooking until chicken is fork tender, 20 to 30 minutes. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve chicken with the sauce in the pot as a gravy.
CORN & MINT RICE Ingredients 2 tablespoons butter, divided 1 cup Basmati rice 2 cups water 2 cups fresh corn kernels 3 large shallots, sliced thinly 1/2 teaspoon white sugar salt to taste ground black pepper to taste 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves Directions 1. Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the rice, add the water, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 16 to 18 minutes, or until water is absorbed and rice is tender. 2. Meanwhile, melt 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir in corn, shallots, sugar, salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 4 to 6 minutes, or until tender. 3. In a serving bowl combine cooked rice, corn mixture and mint.
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LATIN RED BEANS Ingredients 1 small onion, chopped 1 small green bell pepper, chopped 2 cloves garlic, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro leaves 1 teaspoon annatto or achiote powder 1 tablespoon olive oil 1/2 cup diced ham 1 (16.5 ounce) can red beans, drained 1 cup peeled and diced potatoes 1/2 cup peeled and diced pumpkin 1 cup water 1 teaspoon salt Directions 1. In a blender or food processor, puree onion, bell pepper, garlic, cilantro, and annatto powder. Set mixture aside. 2. Heat a large, heavy saucepan over medium heat. Pour in olive oil and sautĂŠ ham with pureed mixture for 10 minutes, until browned. Mix in beans, potatoes, pumpkin, water, and salt. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for approximately 25 minutes, until mixture thickens and potatoes and pumpkin are tender.
CAULIFLOWER LETTUCE SALAD 1 head iceberg lettuce, torn 1 small head cauliflower, broken into florets 3/4 pound sliced bacon, cooked and crumbled 1/4 cup finely chopped red on-
ion 1/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1/ 2 cup plain yogurt 1 teaspoon lemon juice Directions 1. In a large bowl, layer lettuce, cauliflower, bacon, onion, sugar and cheese. 2. Combine mayo and yogurt and lemon juice. 3. Spread mayonnaise mixture over the top; do not toss. Cover and chill for 2 hours or overnight. Toss just before serving.
MACARONI & EGG SALAD Ingredients 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni 1/4 cup mayonnaise 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon cider vinegar 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon prepared mustard Dash pepper 1 celery rib, chopped 2 tablespoons chopped onion 1 hard-cooked egg, chopped ½ cup mixed vegetables (corn, peas and carrots) Directions 1. Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and rinse in cold water. In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, salt, mustard and pepper. Stir in vegetables, celery and onion. Fold in macaroni and egg. Refrigerate until serving.
BRIDAL
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Arranged Marriage Making A Comeback In T&T
rranged marriage is a type of marital union where the bride and groom are selected by a third party rather than by each other, and this practice has been around for thousands of years. The two people often have comparable backgrounds both socially and culturally. In recent times arranged marriage has become common in South Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, Southeast Asia and parts of East Asia, in some royal families and parts of Japan. Some might be surprised to know that the global rate of divorce among arranged marriages is only 4%, but it can be argued that this is due to familial and societal pressure to stay together. Nevertheless, arranged marriages have been gaining popularity here in T&T and making a comeback. But why? Because it seems that the Millennial generation has too many issues that prevent us from creating lasting relationships. So many that face pressure to marry opt for a somewhat “arranged” marriage to someone that their family or religious leader have chosen. What’s wrong with our generation? It seems that texts and Facebook messages have replaced phone calls and face-toface conversations. Sometimes, major relationship discussions, apologies and break ups take place via texts. This depersonal-
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izes them, and makes it easier for people to escape and have less commitment. So Millenials end up running around with pockets of unresolved feelings. Also, in the rapid technology age, Millenials want instant gratification. We want it and we want it now. With social media, there is pressure to join the crowd of people who are engaged, married, having babies, or sitting in a pool of divine eternal happiness. We don’t have the patience to wait for a good relationship to develop, and we think that romantic notions are scary. People are so afraid of appearing clingy, too forward, or too sappy, that it seems notions of romance – such as flowers, hand holding and asking to kiss- are circling the drain. There are too many “situationships” where people want sexual gratification and the benefits of a relationship without labels. Also, those who take the online dating route quickly become jaded and lazy. So to those of you who think that arranged marriages are prehistoric and nonsensical, consider the proven advantages. People who are placed in an arranged marriage do not have to worry about the dating world, or waiting for the “one”. This takes a lot of stress and anxiety out of life. Your family are the ones who choose who you are to marry, so you do not have to worry about them
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liking your spouse. The same goes for having to worry about your in-laws approving of you. By extension, your family will choose your spouse extremely carefully. They will make sure it is someone who matches your own beliefs and values to ensure compatibility. Participating in an arranged marriage can make you feel much closer to your family, and your culture. With respect to kids, because both parents are from the exact same background, religion, and culture, the children will grow up immersed in the same. You do not have to worry about conflicting views on things like that because they were discussed ahead of time. Finally, while you may not say your I Do’s completely love struck, that doesn’t mean you are doomed to a loveless marriage. Love takes time, but will (hopefully) bloom. But of course there are many disadvantages to being in an arranged marriage. For instance, there may be wedding blues as you may feel like your wedding is not your own as it may be completely done by the families, with the bride and groom having very little say in their wedding ceremony. Also, you may not fully know the person you are marrying nor their family. If you never dated them before, you would not have had the opportunity to figure out what you do and do not like in a partner.
If any marital problems arise between the couple then the parents are often the first to be blamed. Especially if the marriage results in a divorce, the family is humiliated because it is perceived as their fault. Close family ties can cause problems between the married couple, because it is inevitable that your family will be very highly involved in your life. There may be a lack of diversity, as arranged marriages focus on keeping tradition and culture alive. People may find themselves changing what they like or who they are in order to fit into their spouses or family’s ideals. This can be very damaging to personal identity. Finally, love takes a long time to develop. When two people are thrown into a marriage that isn’t based on the foundation of love, it may take quite some time for these feeling to develop. This can lead to depression, misery, and divorce. To me, a lot of these disadvantages are associated with the traditional concept of arranged marriages, but these can be overcome with the modern way. In T&T, most go the route of meeting persons suggested by their family or religious representatives with no pressure to marry immediately. So you can get to know the person and determine attraction and compatibility in the search for true love.
Taking The Opportunity Is The First Step
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FAMILY
Making Bath-Time Enjoyable For Baby
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hildren can be a bit nervous about bathing, especially babies and toddlers. Not every child is fond of bathing and as parents you may find it difficult to encourage your child to bathe. In most cases, it becomes a chore for you and a sad and tiring experience for your child. But if you employ a few of these methods, it can be a fun experience for both.
feel the chill below. Have everything you need for bath-time within reach; do not leave your baby unattended while in the water.
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Get bath toys. These need to be clean at all times so chose one that is made from natural material. They don’t have to be purchased, they can be a plastic hammer or even an empty bottle or container but nothing made from hazardous materials. They should also be easy to store after bath-time is over.
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Bath time is a great time for both parents to bond with the baby, especially Fathers. Mothers have the daily duties of nursing and dressing the baby so give Dad a chance to bond with his son or daughter.
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Ensure that the bathroom is warm. A warm environment can be very welcoming and cozy rather than a cold one that may seem scary or unknown. 22
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Check the water temperature and stir it to even it out. If you are boiling water be careful to test it from top to bottom as the top may feel warm while the bottom is cold so that when you place your child in the tub, they may
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Teach toddlers how to undress themselves. This way they feel that they are part of the bathing process and will be more eager to bathe.
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Encourage them to place dirty clothes in the basket. Not only can you
turn this into a fun game but it saves you from having to pick up dirty clothes from off the floor.
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Have lots of bubbles. There are several types of organic shampoos that are safe to use on babies’ skin. Bubbles made from these are harmless.
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Make wetting your baby’s face and hair a fun game, so when it is done it seems fun. Dry your baby’s skin quickly so that he doesn’t get cold. There are hooded towels for babies and thick towels for toddlers.
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If your baby enjoys it, pat dry their skin and rub massaging oil after bath-rime to lock in moisture.
WARDROBE
POWDER ROOM
Fashion Trends That Are Dying A Slow Death
Three Nail Polish Tips You Will Love
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o you love nail polish? If so, you will love these complimentary tips.
Add Vinegar: Vinegar might not have the most pleasant fragrance, but if it can help your nail polish last longer, wouldn’t you use it? The trick is to apply some distilled white vinegar with a cotton pad to your nails before painting them to help polish “stick” to the nail better. Doing so should help clean your nail beds and assist polish with staying put as well as helping to avoid unsightly chips! Toothpaste Removes Stains: Don’t you just hate it when you remove your nail polish, only to find that your nails are still stained? One of the easiest nail polish tricks to do when you run into this problem is to grab some whitening toothpaste and spread it along your nails. Next, get an old tooth brush you don’t use or a nail brush, scrub and wash off!
Avoid Sun and Wind: The very next time you give yourself a manicure at home, remember to avoid painting your nails in direct sunlight or next to a fan. Doing either is just asking for trouble because the sun and wind can disrupt the drying process and cause air bubbles, which will overshadow all of your hard work! Other tips for avoiding air bubbles are to keep nails dry before painting them and get rid of any oil or residue on nail beds.
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ome styles are trendy and come and go in the blink of an eye. Other styles are classic and stick around for ages. Then there are the in-between ones. They are dying, but they just aren’t dead yet. Here are some of them.
but on the programme wearing one, they picked up some steam again. In all honesty, they did look like they were gone in 2013 and 2014, but BOOM… just like that they made a resurgence and they seem to be on the downside again.
Jeggings- Leggings that are designed to look like tight denim jeans. These came out with a bang and have been trending ever since. The gender lines have been blurred with this piece of clothing as, what was once typically designed for women; is now being worn by men. People have proclaimed how fed up of it they are, but it refuses to disappear.
70s bathing suits- A favourite for the ladies. Who would’ve thought that high-cut bathing suits fitting on the waist would’ve made it into 21st Century? The top and bottom matching pieces were a hit a few seasons ago, and haven’t died yet. Some fashionistas have been switching it up: matching the bra with a high-waist skirt or shorts and completing the outfit with a pair of sandals or funky wedge heels.
Banana Republic Men’s Shorts- These were definitely a favourite way back in 2012 and they are still being worn. This one may just stick around longer than the others due to our tropical climate and the fact that men are actually giving “leg day” its just due now. Rompers- They made their way into our closets again in 2011 – particularly the floorlength variety - and, since Project Runway’s winner Anya Ayoung Chee made her dew w w . a m g tt. c o m
Denim cut off shorts- You know these; the ones where the pockets are sticking out below the shorts. Apart from being the number one choice for the rebellious types, these are pretty simple to make. Got an old pair of jeans or a pair that you don’t wear often? Then get a pair of scissors, cut off the bottoms and make your own. No need to visit the store to spend hundreds when you can get a cheaper alternative.
MARCH 2016
ABSTRACT HOME
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MEDICINE CABINET
HOME GYM
Proper Hand Washing Tips And Techniques
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and washing is easy to do and it's one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of many types of infection and illness in all settings—from your home and workplace to child care facilities and hospitals. Clean hands can stop germs from spreading from one person to another and throughout an entire community. When should you wash your hands? 1. Before, during, and after preparing food 2. Before eating food 3. Before and after caring for someone who is sick 4. Before and after treating a cut or wound 5. After using the toilet 6. After changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet 7. After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing 8. After touching an animal, animal feed, or animal waste 9. After touching garbage What is the right way to wash your hands? 1. Wet your hands with clean, 24
Three Misconceptions Women Make About Lifting Weights
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trength training is as important for women as it is for men. So why aren’t as many women hitting the weights? It may be due to one of these misconceptions.
running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap. 2. Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Be sure to lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails. 3. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the "Happy Birthday" song from beginning to end twice. 4. Rinse your hands well under clean, running water. 5. Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.
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Misconception 1: Weights will make you bulky In reality, it's nearly impossible for women to build the same kind of muscle mass as men because of hormonal differences. Men have much higher testosterone levels than women do, which is one major reason why men have so much more muscle mass. In fact, instead of adding bulk to your look, combining resistance training and cardio workouts will help women look longer and leaner as they get stronger. Misconception 2: You’ll look weird Many women fear looking foolish in front of others because they don’t know how to lift weights properly. If you don’t know how to use the weight machines, or you don’t know how to do a certain exercise
correctly, schedule a few sessions with a personal trainer. He or she can create a healthy strength-training plan that suits your goals. Your trainer will also demonstrate how to safely do each exercise so you don’t get injured along the way. Misconception 3: You Will Get Hurt Some women avoid strength training because they're afraid of getting injured. You can counter this fear by taking it slow and starting with a lighter weight. Note that when you challenge your muscles, it can "burn," a feeling that many people associate with pain or injury when they're not accustomed to it. Pushing yourself to the limit and feeling that kind of discomfort may feel scary initially-especially if you’re not used to sweating and really challenging yourself when you exercise. But in order to get results, you need to lift as much weight as possible (while still maintaining proper form) until you totally fatigue your muscles. Lifting light dumbbells a few times isn’t enough to see real results.
GARAGE
PETS
How To Ventilate Your Garage
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he July-August vacation is nearly upon us and although it ushers in the rainy season, we can still expect high temperatures. This means that we would need to properly ventilate certain rooms in the house if they are without fans or air-conditioning. One room that many forget to ventilate is the garage which may seem unnecessary, but this room can trap a lot of heat because of the many materials that are stored there. This makes it uncomfortable to work in and can damage combustible materials which are stored. Try these tips to better aerate the room.
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Add a garage ventilation fan. A free-standing exhaust fan is an easy option. A shutter fan can be used if you have condensation problems in your garage as it will push the condensation out. High exhaust fans needs to be mounted on a wall or attached to the ceiling. These may need to be installed by a technician as you'll need to turn off circuit breakers, remove insulation in the wall or ceiling area where the fan's being installed, and install a house frame or wooden braces to handle the weight of the fan. Depending on the size of the room you may need 2 wall ventilation fans 26
and the best position to store it, if not attached to the ceiling, is mounted on the walls opposite the garage door.
2
Weather-strip your garage doors. This prevents the heat that comes from outside from filling the room. Place a piece of weather-strip in the gap between the floor and the door and between windows and the window-sill.
3
Insulate your garage door. This is especially useful if storing combustible materials as it keeps the temperature in the room cool, avoiding very high temperatures. If your garage is made of wood you should consider insulation as wood is a natural insulator. For metal doors, there are injected foam insulations and another type of insulation is polystyrene panels. Once the room is fully aerated you would be able to complete projects in comfort and not worry about materials wasting or more importantly, starting a fire through combustion. Also, if you build the garage under a room in the house, the room will automatically feel cooler which is helpful during warm nights.
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Things You Should Know About Your Pet Bird
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irds are loveable animals that make perfect pets. Although they can be quite moody, they are very playful and are low-maintenance as long as they are kept in ideal conditions. Most new owners do not know how to properly take care of birds and this can cause the birds to get restless and become unruly. Although there are different kinds of birds who have different needs, certain basic rules should be followed when caring for your pet bird. Remember the main factor when caring for birds is to gain their trust, so that they won’t feel threatened by you, their owner. Do’s 1) Check out your bird’s body language before petting it. They can be very moody at times and may snap at you. 2) Speak to your bird before petting it; ease into the touch. Don’t assume that the bird wants to be touched and try to grab it. 3) Spend time petting your bird as this helps to develop a bond. 4) Pet your bird’s head. Touching the body may warrant a bite as this may seem to be invading its space. 5) Spend time understanding your bird. This takes patience and understanding. 6) Learn about the ideal foods that should be fed to your birds
and what can be done to maintain a healthy diet. Don’ts 1) Don’t continue to pet your bird if it retreats. This can be a sign that it is irritable and wants to be left alone 2) Don’t allow strangers to pet your bird without introducing them to the bird first. Strangers are seen as enemies and the bird will snap if it feels threatened. 3) Don’t pet your bird’s body. Steer clear of the bird’s body; only pet its head. 4) Don’t get upset if your bird doesn’t want to be touched. Birds exhibit certain human qualities and prefer to be left alone at times. 5) Don’t torment the bird by poking it with objects or grabbing it from the cage. Gently coax your bird out onto your finger or guide it out of the cage. 6) Don’t feed your birds every type of food available. Certain foods would not be digested by their tiny stomachs and can cause death.
TRAVEL
Eight Exciting Easter Destinations
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he Easter period is a time of reflection and homage for many Christians around the world. Others see it as just another long holiday to facilitate a beach visit or party. It can be so much more if you check your travel guide. Experience Easter differently by visiting one of these hotspots. New York’s Easter Bonnet Parade New York’s Fifth Avenue is turned into a sea of extravagant bonnets on Easter Sunday. Get yourself a hat and join the informal parade that dates back to the 19th century, when it was the tradition to wear new clothes on Easter Sunday. The action revolves around Manhattan’s neoGothic St Patrick’s Cathedral. Florence In Italy Easter is celebrated in the most festive way. Solemn religious processions are held in many cities and villages during the two days before, accompanied by rituals and medieval costumes. The day after, on Easter Mondays, Pasquetta, is generally the time dedicated to having picnics and taking trips with 28
family or friends. Visiting Italy in this period is warmly suggested since every town has its own spectacular way to celebrate this important religious event. Florence, for example, has its beautiful Explosion of the Chart or in Italian “Scoppio del carro”, an ancient tradition dating back to the 11th century. During the Easter Sunday morning, two white oxen, decorated with flowers, drag an antique chart across Florence streets. This is one of the most fascinating festivals in the country starting from the church of SS Apostoli to Piazza del Duomo where all tourists and locals can admire the beautifully adorned chart and the costume procession. Madrid The drum festival of the Resurrection is highly popular in Spain. Drummers in white robes assemble on Madrid’s grand Plaza Mayor square on Easter Sunday, beating their instruments in celebration of Christ’s resurrection. Watch the noisy spectacle before catching one of the sombre processions happening across the Spanish capital.
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Jerusalem, Israel Observant Christians celebrating Easter may wish to make a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, where they can see for themselves the sites of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. The Easter significance of these sites makes Jerusalem one of the top 10 Easter destinations for Christians of all denominations. The Czech Republic Easter Monday is called "Whipping Monday" in the Czech Republic. Boys spank girls on their legs with a braided whip made of pussywillow twigs, but don't worry, there is no harm intended! The girl gives the boy a painted egg and ties a ribbon around the whip in return. However, it is quite the spectacle. Bulgaria A unique tradition takes place in Bulgaria. The "good luck crack" consists of cracking eggs before lunch during the festive season. The eggs are cracked on the wall of the church and people also take turns in tapping their eggs against the eggs of others, the person with the last remaining egg is considered
the luckiest person for the rest of the year. Amsterdam Amsterdam comes into bloom with Easter colors throughout. From pastel decorations in store and home windows to daffodils and tulips popping up all around the city, this European city welcomes Easter and the beginning of much needed warmer weather and new beginnings. Scotland Easter in Scotland is a mostly laid-back event. The Scots do the traditional things commonly associated with Easter like attending mass and having a big meal, but they also add a bit of fun, particularly for the kids. Easter fun here is all about eggs. After they’re boiled and painted in all kinds of colours and designs, they’re taken to the park hills for rolling on Easter Sunday. While it may just sound like playtime for the kids, the event is very symbolic as it is carried out to represent the rolling away of stones on Jesus’ tomb thereby assisting in His resurrection.
BILL PAYMENT
TOP UP
HYDRATION
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HYALURONIC ACID?
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*stratum corneum layer Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc. 2016
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