Even more locations to pay Pay your bmobile bills at any of these bmobile Channel Partners: Cell 4 Less
• Centre City Mall, Chaguanas • Hilton, POS.
Cell Plus Cell Serve Ltd.
• City Center Mall, Penal • Maritime Plaza, Barataria. • UWI Campus, St. Augustine.
Cell Master Ltd. Cells International Ltd. Cellular Planet Charran Brothers Colours in Motion Craftman Shop
Mizova Services Mobile One Next Generation Computing Ltd. R. Khan Trading & Co. Rale Marketing Rollocks Car Rental Secure Mobile Ltd.
• Nicholas Towers, Independence Square, POS.
The Distribution Company Ltd.
Easipharm
Ultimate Cells
Jo-stal
Wayne Electronics Ltd.
Coming Soon
View and pay your bills online from the comfort of your home. Visit bmobile.co.tt for more information. bmobile.co.tt
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.
M
ost tropical homes have a bit of greenery around the yard. Even people in very urban communities in Trinidad can spot trees; shrub and even lawn grass a simple matter of meters from their doors. Hence, maintenance will become an issue at some point. If you are someone who is actively trying to maintain a hedge, then you may have to get the right hardware. Here is what you need to know when searching for hedge trimmers. Gas hedge trimmers are the most commonplace sort of hedge trimmers hired for critical yard paintings and commercial packages. The sound of a gasoline powered version can regularly be equated to that of a chainsaw. Gas powered hedge trimmers provide strength and cordless operation, and are the preferred choice for any hedge trimming. Another not unusual form of hedge trimmer is an electric powered corded version. These styles of hedge trimmers don't use gas for operation and are actually electric. This is a superb choice for you in case you do not have problems dragging a cord around and appreciate the simplicity of operation and renovation that an electric hedge trimmer can provide. You will also discover that those are the most cost-effective hedge trimmers. One other form of hedge trimmer that is now becoming popular is the cordless battery operated model. These offer
How To Ensure You Have The Right Hedge Trimmer
the emissions-free operation of electric models. However, you may use them without dragging a cord around. Typical battery existence is between thirty and sixty minutes. A plus for those with the cordless battery-powered kind is the same batteries and chargers can usually be used with different electrical tools in the same brand and line of mer-
chandise. This can be a massive plus, and money saver for those with multiple electrical tools who like to stick to the same brands. Of course, as soon as you make a decision whether or not you want to get a gasoline powered, electric or cordless trimmer, you will want to also bear in mind a few different matters. How long do you want the w w w . a m g tt. c o m
trimming blade to be? Most access level hedge trimmers have an approximately 20-inch blade, but you can get blades that are even as much as 40 inches long. What sort of blade will work well? Most trimmers have a double reciprocating blade. Take a look at the blades properly. You may see that a few are extra heavy in relation to others. The models with heavier blades will be capable of cutting through thicker shrubs effortlessly. Do you want a trimmer with extended reach? You'll need to possibly take a look at a version that has a shaft or a pole extender that allows you to reach the pinnacle of the tallest of hedges or portions of bushes. Other features that you might need to keep an eye out for are rotating handles on both the front and lower back, vibration, starting capabilities or even emissions channels which push excess exhaust away from you as you trim the hedges. JULY 2017
ABSTRACT HOME
1
LIVING QUARTERS
How To Clean Your Ceiling Fan
D
espite the rainy season, the temperatures seem to be scorching. During periods like these, the ceiling fan is frequently used indoors as a way to keep persons cool and comfortable. As with any appliance, the ceiling fan should be cleaned regularly to ensure that it is always operational, especially at a time when it is needed most. The ceiling fan is probably one of the easiest machines to clean, yet the most neglected, and regular use can cause dirt and dust build-up or grime, which may eventually lead to the fan wobbling, making noise and ceasing to function altogether. To avoid this, try these five steps to clean your ceiling fan. Step 1 - Depending on the height of your ceiling fan, you
may need a step ladder or a chair. Make sure whatever you choose is sturdy and can support your weight. You do not have to see the top of the blades to clean them but you should be high enough to reach them comfortably. Step 2 - Use a light feather duster or a lint-free cloth to remove any dust particles that have settled at the top of the blades. Begin at the end of the blade nearest the motor and sweep the dust across the blade in one direction. When the dust has been removed, apply cleaning spray to remove any excess dust and to leave a clean shine. An alternative to this will be to use a microfiber cloth, which requires no liquid or spray. After you have finished cleaning one blade, move onto the next one.
of the fan.
Step 3 - After the blades have been cleaned, check the motor of the fan for any signs of dirt or grime build-up. Dust the outside of the motor, being careful not to touch any part inside. The microfiber cloth is the ideal cloth for this job as no liquid should touch the motor
Step 4 - If the light fixtures have also accumulated dust; remove the globe by loosening the screws. Wash the globes with warm water and dishwashing liquid in order to maintain the shine, dry carefully and reattach. Ensure that the screws are in the right place on the rim of the globe before they are tightened at the back. Globes that have frosting should not be washed with soap as it can remove the tint. Check the life spans of the light bulbs and decide whether they should be changed as well. Step 5 - Keep dusting the blades and motor on the ceiling fans regularly to prevent future dust and dirt build-up and to ensure its longevity.
Setting Up Your Water Fountain
O
utdoor garden fountains add an indispensable charm to your backyard. Whether it is an artistic backyard, a cozy veranda, or a balcony, these fountains suit a variety of landscapes. Nothing matches the specialty of a meditation retreat, other than the soothing sounds of flowing waters. Also, their ascetically alluring structure beautifies the decor of your outdoor areas. These simulated springs serve as an ideal decorative piece for any garden. When working with a large area there is a lot that you can do to beautify your garden with the wide variety of garden fountains offered by local stores. Many natural materials like stone and bamboo chutes are used in making these fountains. Lending a patterned appearance to your garden area, these fountains come in attractive colors and some have flashy lighting sys-
2
appropriate level.
4 5 1
Firstly, evaluate the location and the dimensions of the fountain you desire to install. Do not forget to set up an electrical outlet near the site.
tems. They add a calm outlook and tranquility to your brightly colored flower patches. You, your pets and the birds will simply love it! For installing a cascade fountain, you are not required to be well experienced.
ABSTRACT HOME JULY 2017 w w w . a mg t t . co m
2
Level the location where your watery retreat is to be positioned. You may require sand or a concrete support for this purpose.
3
Place the device on the accurate point, inside the water reservoir and fill it with water reaching up to an
Take care of the leaking pipes and outlets.
Connect the pump to your electrical outlet. Switch the power on. Let the pump run for a considerable amount of time.
6
The cascade involves little maintenance effort. But it needs to be cleaned periodically, which involves removing the entire structure from time to time. You may add chlorine bleach to keep your water fresh for a longer period of time.
7
Usually the swiftly flowing waters from these springs may be gathered in a fishpond and recycled at an evaluated altitude, by making use of a submersible pump.
LIVING QUARTERS
Interior Designs For Children
I
nterior design for children can be a most delightful process. It is so fun because the décor is usually a reflection of the children in question and children are limitless as far as their creativity and imaginations are concerned. Be sure to involve the children in the planning and-if you feel very brave, the implementation of your designs. Go for It! A good beginning point or theme for interior design for children is to start with any favorite activity or toy or even character of the child’s interest. Remember that many items of interest to children are topics that will change with time so try to take advantage of these interests and favorites with accessories and changes that will be easy to replace in the future as their interests and needs change. If a child has an interest or a particular activity that they are very enthused about and they have a special request that would make the design
4
very special to them, go for it as long as the parents are as enthusiastic as the child is. Also, forewarn them of any possible headaches they might experience changing it in the future when it comes time to redesign the space in order to accommodate the child’s changing needs. When choosing your color plan or schemes remember that interior design for children offers you unique opportunities to use bold or bright colors that would usually not be ideal for use in adult surroundings. Along the same lines, certain areas of the room would be more ergonomic to use as focal points than in an adult’s atmosphere. For example, a chalkboard or toy box might capture a child’s attention more so than would a table or seating arrangement. Another aspect of design that will vary from adult tastes when planning interior design for children would be the accessories that will be used to
ABSTRACT HOME JULY 2017 w w w . a mg t t . co m
highlight and accentuate key features. Toys and collectibles make wonderful objects to use in this application. However, many times toys that are placed on display or for decoration are toys that the child would enjoy much more if they are able to play with them than just having them on display. You can solve this dilemma by either using old, unused toys that no longer captivate the child’s interests or even by purchasing duplicates and allowing them to actually use one version of the toy and letting them know that the others are ‘for looking only’. Also, keep in mind that collectibles often times are of less significance to smaller children than to adults so make sure that any item placed in a child’s room is not of significant fiscal or sentimental value just in case! Tying in interior design for children can be accomplished easily by purchasing one of millions of available bed treat-
ments that are complimentary to the designs and themes used in the creation of the room layout as well as fitting in well with the accessories chosen. Many bed treatment packages come prepackaged with matching detailed sheets, a comforter, dust ruffle, and window coverings. These items can bring a room together in the greatest of all fashions and are an option in interior design for children that are obtainable by anyone looking to make a change. Always remember when planning interior design for children that a child changes attitudes, opinions, and behaviors around every three years. Permanent changes of any type are a big no-no and practical, cost-effective ones are ideal. A good furniture tip to remember when designing for kids is to buy reasonably priced, sound furniture that doesn’t break the bank. Kids are even harder on furniture then they are on clothes!
LIVING QUARTERS
E
You May Be Wasting Energy
ven in Trinidad and Tobago inflating energy-related costs as well as issues of global warming and pollution have led to calls for alternative means of energy. While the world’s superpowers are in space coming up with solutions, there are simpler plans we can initiate to do our part in curbing these problems. This is to reduce the amount of energy we use on a daily basis. There are a number of things homeowners can do to make significant reductions in their energy consumption. The first tip is one which is so easy that it is almost always overlooked: turn lights off when you leave a room - instant energy consumption reduction. It’s a Trinidadian habit to have the house all lit up (Christmas it’s totally overboard), with every room warm and welcoming. Maintain this warmth and add a sense of elegance with the use of table lamps instead.
6
Pop in energy efficient light bulbs. These also last up to 12 times longer than ordinary bulbs. A standard incandescent light bulb wastes 90% of its energy giving off heat and only 10% of this is to light. By comparison Compact Fluorescent light bulbs are nearly three times as efficient and produce far less heat for a cooler home, in this time of fluctuating temperatures in Trinidad.
ABSTRACT HOME JULY 2017 w w w . a mg t t . co m
Try to always run the washing machine or dishwasher with a full load. If you are not filling up the washing machine, tumble dryer or dishwasher, use the half-load or economy programme. This saves water and energy. Don’t leave plugs inserted into outlets when they are not being used. Appliances, cell phones and the like should not be charged unnecessarily. And
appliances should not be left on standby. Regulating thermostats in the home is a good energy saving tip. Refrigerators should not be set too cold, but should be just cold enough to do the job. If your refrigerator is making ice in the non-freezer section then the thermostat has to be readjusted. Similarly, water heaters need not waste energy by heating water too hot. Buying energy efficient appliances greatly reduces energy consumption. Look for appliances with the Energy Star label. The Energy Star is one certification that the product is in fact energy efficient. Homes which use Energy Star appliances on average save more than 30 percent of the energy that was used with normal appliances. If these tips are considered, not only can we look forward to a better future, but we will save some bucks along the way.
HOME OFFICE
Is The Education System Creating Anti-Entrepreneurs?
S
omeone once said that entrepreneurship is living a few years of your life like most people won’t, so you can spend the rest of your life like most people can’t. The truth is, while this would appeal to most budding business minds, is the educational system really preparing them for the world of entrepreneurship? Several studies have discovered the traits common to most successful entrepreneurs. These include willingness to take risks, creative and innovative behavior and being committed and selfmotivated. They should possess a variety of proficiencies including leadership, technical, accounting and communication skills. Also they should have self-confidence and the ability to bounce back after failure. But if we look at the way business subjects are taught in secondary schools, students are taught just the opposite: to “play it safe.” Basically it is a cycle every year, where students sit in a class, learn about management theories, read chapter upon chapter and then write an exam to attain a Grade 1 in CXC or CAPE. No 8
risky behavior is encouraged. Furthermore, while the syllabus lays the theoretical foundation, there is no practical aspect. There are no opportunities for students to actually match the theory learnt with what happens in the dynamic business world. Any examination of the workings of an enterprise is limited to the School Based Assessment. This usually focuses on operations, production or accounting issues and rarely examines the successes or the struggles of the entrepreneur. By extension, there is the lack of training in business activity. The educational system lacks a means by which students can actually engage in business ventures, make business deci-
ABSTRACT HOME JULY 2017 w w w . a mg t t . co m
sions and learn from success or failure. Students should be given the prospect of opening their own businesses even on a small scale within the school population. This would give them the “hands-on” experience and skill set that could be an asset later in life. Also, not enough information on starting up a new business is shared with students. Many are in the dark as to how to actually go about starting a new business when they leave school. The main challenge faced by entrepreneurs around the world is sourcing capital. Even though there are several institutions that exist to help new business owners like NEDCO and ADB, many still believe that bank loans are the only option. Similarly, the legal issues that exist in setting up a business are rarely known. This could be detrimental to their profitability in the long run when it comes to patenting ideas and inventions. Even the pivotal role of writing up a proper business plan to inform the viability of a project is not taught fully to students. Another shortcoming is the
choosing of subject lines. At the CXC level, students normally choose either business or science subjects to lead them to a certain career path. So students who choose science subjects could ultimately end up becoming entrepreneurs but would not have any formal training in business. All these points highlight the fact that the education system needs a course that covers all these issues: from options for raising capital to skill development. It needs to be real-world and draw upon the experiences of local entrepreneurs while allowing students the chance to dive into risk. It requires that this subject be promoted as a cross departmental area, not only confined to business students. Finally are we really letting students know that in life, they should be self-confident and have the ability to bounce back even though they have failed? Instead, we have a system that allows students to only fail up to a certain age and then they have to switch to another option. When in reality, statistics show that 80% of businesses fail within their first year.
ELEGANT IDEAS
Go Wild With Large Windows
The windows become walls in this solariumstyled living space. w w w . a m g tt. c o m
JULY 2017
ABSTRACT HOME
11
ELEGANT IDEAS
12
ABSTRACT HOME JULY 2017 w w w . a mg t t . co m
ELEGANT IDEAS
Large luminous windows are great for bathrooms where privacy is not an issue.
w w w . a m g tt. c o m
JULY 2017
ABSTRACT HOME
13
ELEGANT IDEAS
Dine amid wall to wall windows with an additional skylight overhead.
14
ABSTRACT HOME JULY 2017 w w w . a mg t t . co m
ELEGANT IDEAS
w w w . a m g tt. c o m
JULY 2017
ABSTRACT HOME
15
KITCHEN
F
Extraordinary Uses For Food
ood provides nutritional support for the body and is usually of plant or animal origin. All living creatures on this planet we call earth need food to survive. A lot of research has gone into creating alternative food sources- that’s just how important food is. In order for us to go about our everyday lives we need energy and we get that energy from the food we eat. Many of us may have heard about using vinegar to shine tiles or the use of Coco Cola to get rid of stains. After much research, it has been noted that there are many such uses for food. These uses range from putting highlights in your hair to cleaning your silverware. Yeah you read it right “putting highlights in your hair”. Food is like the super do-it-all creation of the 21stcentury. Even though food was not recently discovered, its extraordinary uses have now been brought to the forefront. Maybe its alternative uses were discovered by someone trying to save a buck. Listed below are some of the extraordinary uses for food. You can try a few and in the process save on some of your household products. Worcestershire Sauce: Cleans Silver Use a soft cloth to rub Worces-
16
tershire sauce on silverware or any item of silver, then rinse and dry.
lay out in the sun. This will add some great highlights. Be sure to shampoo afterwards.
Pepper: Keeps Clothes From Fading Add a teaspoon of pepper to the wash before you add clothes and it will keep the colors from fading. Sugar: Keeps Flies Away Simmer 2 cups of milk, 1/4 pound of sugar, and 2 oz. of ground black pepper for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pour the mixture into bowls and place them where the flies will be attracted to them. They will then drown in the mixture. Salt: Removes Grease Before you wash, work a generous amount of table salt into the stain and then launder as usual. It is especially useful for mechanics. Bananas: Buffing Tool Remove any stringy pulp and use the peel as a buffing tool. This works with silverware as well as leather shoes and leather furniture. Just rub the peel over the object, then buff with a soft cloth. Be sure to test a small section of your furniture first. Beer: Adds Highlights Soak your hair in beer, and go
ABSTRACT HOME JULY 2017 w w w . a mg t t . co m
Garlic: Gets Splinter Out If you get a splinter, rub some garlic on it, the splinter will practically pull itself out. Lemons: Eliminates Dandruff Try massaging 2 tablespoons of lemon juice into your scalp and rinsing with warm water. Follow with a leave-in rinse of 1 teaspoon lemon juice in 1 cup of warm water. Use this daily until your scalp is healed.
Bread: Keeps Baked Goods Fresh Put slices of bread among cookies and other baked goods to keep the goodies fresh. This is great for holiday baking and shipping. Bread can also help clean fingerprints off walls and wallpaper. Just rub and voila it’s gone.
Mayonnaise: Removes Crayon Marks It’s one thing when your child draws on the wall with crayons, it's quite another when it comes to your wood furniture. Rub some mayonnaise on the crayon mark and let it soak for ten minutes. Then take a damp cloth and wipe away the mayo and the crayon.
Butter: Untangles Jewellery Thin chains usually knot easily, rub some butter into the knot and lay the necklace on a flat surface. Then take a sewing needle to untangle. When finished just run under hot water to rinse off the butter.
Milk: Removes Ink Stains When you have an ink stain on your clothes just grab some milk and soak the area. Depending on the type of ink, this process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 24 hours.
Flour: Keeps Ants Away Just sprinkle flour wherever you see ants entering the house and along the shelves, since they are most likely after your food.
Mustard: Relives Stuffy Head and Chest Rubbing a thin layer of mustard over your chest and covering with a hot towel can relieve a stuffy head and chest.
RECIPES
S
Try Our Corny Recipes
o many of the products we consume contain corn or one of its by-products that it is no wonder people love corn so much the world over. This grain is eaten in almost every country in the world, but Mexico has an extra-special affinity for it. Its versatility makes it a must in Caribbean kitchens. Here are some Mexicaninspired corn dishes for you to try at home.
CILANTRO CORN SALSA Ingredients 2 ears corn on the cob, husks and silk removed 2 tomatoes, chopped 2 avocados - peeled, pitted, and diced 1/2 bunch cilantro, stems cut off and leaves chopped 1 white onion, chopped 3 tablespoons chopped garlic 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar Kosher salt to taste Directions Preheat grill for medium heat and lightly oil the grate. Cook corn on the preheated grill until the kernels are lightly charred but still firm, 3 to 5 18
minutes per side, turning often. Cut kernels off the cobs, transfer to a large salad bowl, and let cool. Mix in tomatoes, avocados, cilantro, white onion, garlic, olive oil, and red wine vinegar; season with kosher salt.
MEXICAN CORNBREAD Ingredients 1 cup butter, melted 1 cup white sugar 4 eggs 1 (15 ounce) can cream-style corn 1/2 (4 ounce) can chopped green chili peppers, drained 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup yellow cornmeal 4 teaspoons baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt Directions Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. In a large bowl, beat together butter and sugar. Beat in eggs one at a time. Blend in cream corn, chilies, Monterey Jack
ABSTRACT HOME JULY 2017 w w w . a mg t t . co m
and Cheddar cheese. In a separate bowl, stir together flour, cornmeal, baking powder and salt. Add flour mixture to corn mixture; stir until smooth. Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake in preheated oven for 1 hour, until a toothpick inserted into center of the pan comes out clean.
Directions Fry bacon in a Dutch oven until crisp; remove bacon, reserving 2 tablespoons drippings. Crumble bacon and set aside. Saute onion in reserved drippings until tender; add potatoes and water. Cover and simmer 15 to 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Stir in milk, corn, salt, and pepper to taste; continue to cook, stirring frequently, until heated through. Sprinkle with crumbled bacon to serve.
ELOTE
CORN CHOWDER
Ingredients 4 ears corn, shucked 1/4 cup melted butter 1/4 cup mayonnaise 1/2 cup grated cotija cheese 4 wedges lime (optional)
Ingredients 6 slices bacon 1 onion, chopped 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed 1/2 cup water 2 cups milk 2 (14.75 ounce) cans creamstyle corn 1 (15.25 ounce) can whole kernel corn 1/2 teaspoon salt ground black pepper to taste
Directions Preheat an outdoor grill for medium-high heat. Grill corn until hot and lightly charred all over, 7 to 10 minutes, depending on the temperature of the grill. Roll the ears in melted butter, then spread evenly with mayonnaise. Sprinkle with cotija cheese and serve with a lime wedge.
BRIDAL
Should Couples Have Joint Or Separate Accounts?
T
here is no right or wrong answer to this question and even if the couple receives financial advice on the issue, the final decision is left up to them. A number of factors should be considered before going into such an agreement such as the length of the relationship, the status of the relationship and the money that is to be contributed. Some say yes, while others say no and as with everything there will be certain benefits and drawbacks. If you and your partner are thinking about having a joint account, consider these first. Advantages of having a joint account 1) Encourages regular communication about finances. If you’re not yet married or just planning a wedding, a joint account will help to foster discussions about money management and plans for your money. 2) Accountability for one’s actions. Not so much as in ‘keeping tabs’ but you will be able to track your spending and keep a closer eye on financial decisions, now that you are sharing the account with someone else. 3) Promotes unity in money matters. Having a joint ac20
count can help you to make decisions as a team and can help you to achieve goals faster. 4) There is no ‘your’ or ‘mine’ bank account. It is clear that the account is to be used for all the needs of the couple and the household. Such as bills, groceries, miscellaneous items, forming a bond and togetherness within the union. 5) No conflict. Similar to number four, there will be no misunderstandings such as whose turn it was to pay, for example, the electricity bill, as the joint account takes care of all the couple’s and household needs. Advantages of having a separate account 1) Financial book-keeping depends on one person. It is your account and you will be able to manage your spend-
ABSTRACT HOME JULY 2017 w w w . a mg t t . co m
ing, making records of your deposits and expenditure. 2) You can spend the money as you please without consulting someone else. You can also place limits on your spending if need be and prioritize your spending in terms of importance. 3) You can create your own saving goals and identify ways to achieve these, often seeking advice from your spouse, but not awaiting his/her approval 4) Gift-buying is easier especially if purchasing a gift for your spouse. Because there is no one else to track the activity on the account, your spouse won’t be aware of any deductions. 5) No need to discuss finance regularly. Each person is in charge of their own account and its spending patterns. Therefore they won’t need to constantly consult each other on money matters. 6) Each spouse can have an allocated amount for themselves. If each person has the responsibility to pay a certain number of bills or contribute a certain amount to grocery buying, the rest can be used as they see fit. 7) Having your own account generates independence and you would be able to have a
certain level of privacy about what you purchase. As mentioned above the decision is based solely on you and your mate and the type of relationship that you enjoy. There is a difference between having a separate account and separate finances. Separate finances mean that you spend your income on what you want as an individual, while setting aside a certain amount to handle the needs of the house. A separate account can be had in connection with an individual account, but the finances in the joint account are spent on the home. The latter works well with most marriages as it gives each individual independence while still working as part of a team. The key is to maintain financial unity at all times, through constant communication and honesty. Some married couples have revealed that they have separate accounts that their spouses are unaware of; this is not recommended. Ultimately, although you have a separate account your partner should have access to that account as well to prevent too much independence. Remember a marriage is a union and as such all matters should be treated as a partnership.
FAMILY
Making That Special Someone Feel Special
A
t times, simply by telling our loved ones that we love them, we are not able to express how much they really mean to us. Every once in a while,we realize that we would like to do something different for them. For the times when you feel like doing something special for your loved ones, here's a list of things that you could do! A Handwritten Note Nowadays, communicating is often via SMSs and WhatsApp messages. A handwritten letter will show extra effort. The letter could be just about anything, maybe something like thanking them for the way they greet you! Cook Them Their Favorite Meal It all starts with making a meal from the scratch. Now it does not necessarily have to be a five course meal, but the choice is yours. Even if you choose to go for just a toasted avocado sand22
bring home a gift just to let your loved ones know how much they mean to you. Get Hands On About Interaction Interacting with your loved ones could make a world of difference. Take time to interact and tell them how much of a difference they make in making life better for you! Try spending the time with them without your laptop or phone. wich, be sure that they're going to love it! Dinner Without Any Occasion Why not take them out for a dinner without any special occasion. This is a lot about doing stuff together! So book your seats at your favorite restaurant. Consider the new, hip restaurant in town! Is it Chinese or Italian cuisine which you know that they're going to love? Make your pick accordingly, and you're in for some gala time with your loved ones!
ABSTRACT HOME JULY 2017 w w w . a mg t t . co m
Make Sure You Call Them Every Single Day Just To Say Hello We all happen to get busy with our routine all the time, but when someone calls just to say hello, it brings a smile to the face and brightens up the day! When you call someone for no apparent reason, it just lets them know that you've been thinking of them! A Surprise Gift Sometimes the occasion calls for a gift. At other times, you could
Keep Up With The Compliments Something as simple as letting your loved one know that they look good can make a world of difference! Give A Helping Hand Offer help whenever your loved ones are up to new stuff. This would let them know how much they mean to you! If you can’t physically help, still give moral and verbal support. It means the world.
WARDROBE
POWDER ROOM
I
Can Coloured Mascara Work For You?
f you are like most women, your daily mascara color is probably pretty basic black or brown. Basics are always great, especially if you are going to a job in a professional environment. You should be aware that there are other mascara color choices available out there to consider, too. Mascaras come in a variety of colors, and depending on your eye color and makeup palate, colored mascaras can be an easy and inexpensive way to really amp up your makeup! A very popular choice for colored mascara is blue. Navy blue is one of the more popular shades. There is a spectrum of blue mascaras, ranging from electric blue to turquoise blue. Consider trying a blue eye shadow, eyeliner and mascara for a very striking look. People with blue eyes can definitely draw attention and accentuate their eyes with complementary blue mascara, especially when paired with this tonal look of all blue eye makeup and pencil. Purple mascara sounds a bit over the top, but it doesn't have to be! Think how pretty and flattering a deep plum shade of purple could look. Mascara in this shade is a great color to pair
with your berry and mauve eye shadow palettes. If you have not tried this color combination, you should consider it. If you are a green-eyed lady, then you might want to try green mascara. Not only will green mascara enhance your gorgeous green eyes, but it also looks fabulous with oceanlike color shadows and pencils - think oyster and pearl eye shadow. Green, in general, can be quite theatrical and over the top, too! Don't be afraid to experiment with mascaras in jade green. If you are in a festive mood, consider glitter mascara; this certainly will add an additional sparkle to your eyes! Try this type of formula with a silvery shimmer eye makeup for nights out on the town. Glitter mascara does require a bit of extra care when applying. Be sure to clean up any small amounts of glitter below your eyes before heading out. So stick with your basic black and brown mascara as your "go to" mascara for everyday use and more professional environments, but don't be afraid to try some of the other mascara colors that are available for a night out or special event.
Three Quick Stuck Zipper Hacks
W
e have all owned an item with a zipper that got stuck at some point or the other. However, many of us have thrown away pretty good items just because the zipper was no longer good. Don’t let a stuck zipper make your bag, boots, jackets or jeans worthless. Use these hacks to zap your zips back into life.
1
Rub a bar of soap up and down the teeth of both sides your stuck zipper. It makes sense to use a translucent or natural-colored bar of soap to help prevent staining.
2
Rub the pencil tip from a traditional (non-mechanical) graphite pencil
w w w . a m g tt. c o m
up and down the teeth on both sides your stuck zipper. Note that this method works best on metal zippers and not the plastic ones.
3
Soak the zipper and closely surrounding fabric with Windex. Incrementally pull the zipper in the unzip direction. Relax and restart the grip and pull motion until it is freed.
JULY 2017
ABSTRACT HOME
23
MEDICINE CABINET
HOME GYM
Choosing The Right Chiropractor
C
hiropractic care is a form of medical treatment that has been able to help a number of patients without the use of pain medication or other methods. Despite the fact that these types of physicians can provide an extremely valuable service to many people, it is important to remember that choosing a chiropractor is a task which should be approached much in the same way as one would choose any type of doctor. In this article, we will outline some tried and true tips to help aid in the selection process. Where Should I Start? To begin, it is important to consider the education and credential levels held by the practitioner. Most countries now have professional associations which evaluate physicians and provide memberships based on degrees and training accumulated by the chiropractor. Requirements are often also in place in regard to continued education directly related to the field. Are There Specialties? The main area of focus is also an important factor to consider. The idea here is to find a specialist whose prime area of expertise lies in only a few musculoskeletal issues. In this way, you will have a better chance of finding a physician who is skilled and knowledgeable, rather than one who is so-so in a broad number of treatments. Look for a chiropractor who fo24
cus’ on the core treatments and does not dabble in areas which fall outside their designated knowledge base. Where Do I Look? Another good place to gain information or recommendations is through your primary care physician. Deciding on care that is recommended through your doctor is a good idea for two reasons. First, your doctor will most likely only suggest a practice that he or she feels is professional and effective. Secondly, the recommended physician will probably be more open to working with your general doctor in order to more effectively treat your condition. Where communication is involved, you will typically find better overall care. You may also want to check local references. Ask around to family and friends to have been treated with similar issues and see what their experiences were. This way, you will be able to get an inside scoop on exactly how he or she interacts with their patients, as well as what to expect from your time there. For a firsthand look, try scheduling a consultation. Go prepared with a list of questions and topics to discuss with the physician and see what they then recommend. Take lots of your own notes! At the end of the appointment you should have a pretty good idea of where you stand with your new practitioner.
ABSTRACT HOME JULY 2017 w w w . a mg t t . co m
Sports Massage Can Boost Your Performance
S
ports massage is popularly used prior to sporting events as it can stimulate circulation, relieve stress and assist an athlete to perform in peak physical condition. Sports massage primarily focuses on the management, manipulation and rehabilitation of the body's soft tissues. Known for improving training, injury prevention, enhanced self-awareness and performance, sports massage improves blood circulation which allows athletes to train more efficaciously. Additionally, sport massage is a natural antioxidant as it helps to remove waste products and refurbishes tissues with essential nutrients to help in healing. By using sports massage, deep tissue damage and imbalances can be detected earlier and possibly corrected before an injury ensues. It is important to know the differences in the types of massage available. Swedish massages are more topical and are popular in the beauty world. While many of these regular spa massages are soothing, they are not deep enough
to relax tight muscles. Sports massages can be uncomfortable as they seek to loosen knots and can go deep into the muscle fibres. Thus, it is important to stay hydrated prior to a sports massage as dehydration can stiffen the fascia and muscles, which translates to a more painful massage. With that said, when you get off the table, don’t be surprised if your muscles are screaming at you. This soreness is normal and can even help reveal areas of weakness that should receive future attention. After a day, the tightness should dissipate, and if the massage was administered correctly, you may even feel like you’re in a new body.
GARAGE
PETS
Is It Time To Change Steps To Trimming Your Cat’s Nails Your Brakes?
C
ar brakes are something we don’t think much about until we start having problems with them. Don’t ignore brake issues. It is very dangerous to both you and everyone around you if you’re driving with worn brake pads. But, do you know when to get your brakes changed? This article will give you some tips to answer this question. If you apply your brakes and hear a squealing sound, you know it’s time to take a look at your brakes. The squealing sound is designed into the workings of the brake system to let you know there is a problem. The sound happens when the wear indicator scrapes against the rotor. You can look at this indicator yourself for signs of wear. It is a small piece of metal on the brake pad. You can also check the brake pad itself. Deep circular grooves are a sign that the brake pads need to be changed. If you’ve waited too long, the grooves may be so deep they are exposing the rotor, in which case you’ll need to replace that as well. Also make sure the brake line is in good condition with
26
no holes or cracks. If you’re unsure at all, or not comfortable checking your own brakes, it’s a good idea to have your local garage check your brake system. Regular brake checkups by an experienced mechanic are the best way to ensure brake safety. Your mechanic knows what to look for and will be less likely to miss anything. Find a garage that you can trust for your brake maintenance needs. To do this, make sure your garage guarantees their work and gives you a quote before performing any service. A good garage will inspect all parts of your brake system, including the ABS systems. A really impressive garage will also offer a warranty on their work that goes above and beyond their guarantee. Remember, if you wait to replace your brakes, you are putting your own life in danger as well as those riding with you and sharing the road with you. Don’t wait till you hear the warning squeal of brake problems; make sure you’re getting your brakes checked out regularly.
ABSTRACT HOME JULY 2017 w w w . a mg t t . co m
I
f you don't trim your cat's nails, they will find some way to scratch them down on their own... most likely on your furniture! Therefore, you should definitely consider these steps to trimming.
1
Get your cat accustomed to having its feet and nails handled; whenever you're snuggling, take a moment to massage each paw.
2
Turn on a strong light. Trimming your cat's nails in good light will help you see the "quick" (the part of the nail containing nerves and blood vessels). Cutting into the "quick" is painful and will cause bleeding.
3
Have everything ready before you start. Cats don't like restraints, especially for long periods.
4 5
Place your cat in your lap, and gently hold one paw.
Unsheathe your cat's retractable nails by placing your index finger underneath one toe and your thumb
over the top of the same toe. Squeeze your fingers together gently. As you do this, you'll see the toenail protrude; it will remain extended until you release your hold.
6
Trim each nail just beyond the point where it starts to curve downward, using pet nail trimmers specifically designed for cats.
7
Start gradually, clipping a few nails in one sitting, using positive reinforcement such as petting or treats as you clip.
8
If bleeding occurs, apply pressure to the tip of the nail using styptic powder or a substitute such as baby powder or cotton balls.
9
Work up to trimming the nails on all four paws in one sitting. Cats usually have five nails on each front foot and four on the rear, although they can be born with extra toes. The nails on extra toes tend to become ingrown and should be trimmed more frequently.
TRAVEL
Greater Miami And The Beaches Entices Travelers To Be “Found In Miami”
W
New brand campaign taps into the destination’s rich authentic experiences and culture
ith record-breaking tourism numbers year after year, Miami has long been known for its sunshine and beaches, but what keeps attracting travelers is something much deeper. Today the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) announces the launch of “Found in Miami,” an active domestic and international advertising and destination branding campaign that speaks to the destination’s authentic travel experiences. “Found in Miami” calls travelers to discover themselves in Miami, to dive deeper into the destination to uncover soulstirring moments. “We are making a commitment with the launch of ‘Found in Miami’ to truly go beyond what travelers might have come to expect from our destination. ‘Found in Miami’ is dynamic, smart and shifts the perception of our iconic home, and also tells the story of the soul of Miami,” said GMCVB President & CEO 28
William D. Talbert, III, CDME. “Miami is alive and brimming with culture and opportunities for guests to seek out and explore. Our hotels have distinct personalities, our dining scene has endless options and we offer a seldom-rivaled lineup of arts and multi-cultural heritage. There’s never been a better time to discover the magic of Miami and the Beaches.” “Found in Miami” advertising visuals focus on the uniqueness of Miami and the Miami-only neighborhoods
ABSTRACT HOME JULY 2017 w w w . a mg t t . co m
that culture-seeking travelers crave. The campaign conveys the energy of Miami through rich, authentic visuals, articulate voices and tone, and detailed photography that elevates destination marketing imagery. The multi-million dollar integrated marketing campaign includes national sponsored content storytelling, influencer content, social media advertising, print and digital advertising and out-ofhome ads, in addition to public relations. There was also a consumer activation in lower Man-
hattan’s Fulton Center transit hub on the first day of summer (June 21, 2017). The result of extensive market research, the GMCVB conducted an in-depth brand equity study and in-person interviews, surveying more than 1,280 travelers to understand their perception of Miami. Data research was also conducted to produce a detailed report on Miami’s perception within its top global markets to help position the campaign. “Found in Miami” will reach audiences in the US, Canada, Germany, UK and Brazil. For a first look at “Found in Miami” watch the campaign via YouTube. To learn more about “Found in Miami” visit www.FoundinMiami.com. For recommendations on where to stay, dine, spa, discover, explore, celebrate, propose and so much more in Greater Miami and the Beaches, please visit www.MiamiandBeaches.com. (SFa Communications Inc)
THIS IS TOP UP
COUNTRY BILL PAYMENT
TICKETING
Experience Real NLCB Convenience!
Over 900 NLCB Lotto Centres Nationwide!
An
Brand
Abstract Home Is Published By Abstract Media Group, Premium Commercial Complex, San Juan, Trinidad, W.I. • Tel: (868) 638 1156/9 • Fax: (868) 638 1160. Printed By The Office Authority - Printing Division And Distributed By AMG