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.
House Cleaning Checklist • Buff water spots from mirror and faucet. • Wipe the toilet seat and rim with a disinfecting cloth. • Spray the shower, tub and shower door/curtain with homemade daily shower spray. • Replace any makeup-stained towels or wash cloths with clean ones.
A
daily cleaning routine is a busy person’s best friend. See, here’s the thing about cleaning house: the more often you do it, the less you actually have to do. That’s why it’s a good idea to have a quick, daily cleaning routine that will keep your house looking nice all the time. Bedroom: • Make your bed every morning. A rumpled bed will make even the cleanest rooms look like a disaster. • Pick up all clothing. Clean
stuff gets folded or hung, dirty stuff goes in the hamper. • Put away jewelry, hand lotion and other items on the nightstand. Take your waterglass to the kitchen sink. Bathroom: • Wipe the sink basin clean after you’ve used it.
Kitchen: • Empty the dishwasher if it’s full. • Empty the sink of any dirty dishes, and give the sink a quick scrub. • Spray and wipe down counters and appliance fronts. • Corral any clutter into a neat pile to deal with later in the day. • Use a damp cloth to wipe up any splatters on the floor. • Toss the dirty dishtowel in
the wash, and put out a clean one. • If you have the time, give the floor a quick sweep. Living and/or Family Room • Straighten all pillows and blankets on the sofa, which is one of the room’s major focal points. • Neaten magazines, books, games and DVDs that are sitting out. • Wipe away any obvious crumbs and fingerprints from table tops. • Use a carpet sweeper or hand vacuum to pick up any messes from floor. If you have the time and energy, consider going through the house spraying a homemade air freshener to give the appearance of having cleaned even more thoroughly than you did!
Adding Scent To Your Christmas Scene
W
ith all the focus on shopping and decorating for Christmas, it can be easy to overlook one vital ingredient — how your home smells. The right scents conjure atmosphere and enhance an occasion, whether it's tangy pine or the sweet warming tones of vanilla. Just imagine Christmas without all the wonderful scents it comes with and you'll understand why home fragrance is so important at this time of year. The smell of pine from the Christmas tree, a pomander with the scent of orange infused with cloves, and the fragrance of fruity spice in mulled wine are all so familiar and is as much of a Christmas tradition as hanging up a stocking on Christmas Eve. The favourite scents for this time of year radiate comfort and warmth, from musky evergreens and warm cedarwood to
the festive spice of cinnamon. Christmas is a time for nostalgia and tradition, for family gatherings and for remembering moments in time, and it is these emotions people seek to recreate and conjure with the home fragrances they choose. Harper believes our scent memory is usually the best guide. It's not so much a case of you picking a home fragrance,
is a relaxant and a sleep aid, vanilla is comforting, floral scents are generally calming and fruity scents revitalize an atmosphere and are perfect for a party. Contemporary fragrances can be lovely too. Some room scents recreate the fragrance of snowflakes and ice. These crisp, cold, fashionable scents are achieved using ingredients with herbal, menthol nuances, as well as white floral notes and aldehydic notes. A scent can also complement your décor. So if you have more that home fragrance picks a stark, contemporary look you. Fragrance is deeply per- with white tree decorations sonal, you don't have a choice with lilies and white roses on between which scents you like the Christmas table, the ‘snow' and which you don't. Through- scents could be perfect. out our lives we store informaIf, however, warm red bertion on smells, creating a com- ries and flowers with red table plex stockpile of memories and napkins are more your thing, associations, all of which have a then the spicy warm scents of big impact on whether we like a cinnamon and cloves may be fragrance or not. the perfect choice to enhance As a general guide, lavender the mood. w w w . a b s tr a c th o m e . c o m NOVEMBER 2013 ABSTRACT HOME 1
LIVING QUARTERS
Choosing The Right Home Builder
L
et’s be frank: Home builders don’t always have a great reputation with the general public. That’s why so many people view the idea of having their own home built with trepidation, if not outright fear. However, despite these popular perceptions, many builders are quite reputable. In fact, most are honest and forthright in their business practices. The choice of a builder may be the most important decision in the home-building process. Choosing a builder early in the process—ideally before you’ve settled on a site or design for your home—can set the stage for a successful home-building experience. Choose Early, Choose Wisely Why might you prefer to choose a builder early on? Builders say the process is so complex that most owners need professional guidance from the beginning to avoid mistakes in site selection, home design and written specifications. Builders say your budget probably shouldn’t be among the top criteria in selecting a builder. No builder can quote an accurate price for a home until he or she knows the type, style, finishes and features
2
of the home, the site conditions, and the type of contract you want to use for construction. Rather than focusing on cost, you may well want to base your decision on the builder’s competence, reputation, professionalism, warranty coverage, and experience.
That’s why you’ll want choose a builder with whom you’ll feel comfortable.
Reputation Look for an established builder with an extensive client list.
Financial stability Some builders run their businesses better than other builders do. Make sure the building company you select is financially viable.
Area of operation Choose a builder who is familiar with the area where you want your home to be built. Local knowledge is important because residential construction is very regional in nature. An out-ofthe-area builder might not be prepared to handle variations in local building codes, subcontracting practices, inclement weather patterns, or other factors. Type of home Select a builder who has extensive experience constructing homes in your price range and general design style. Compatibility Building a home is a highly personal and emotional experience.
ABSTRACT HOME NOVEMBER 2013 w w w . a b st r a c th o m e . c o m
Warranty The builder should be willing and able to offer you a comprehensive written warranty on your new home.
Financial strength Success in the home-building business is earned by building a quality product at a fair price. A builder who is financially successful likely will still be in business during the warranty period for your new home. Further, successful builders are in the best position to contract for the services of top subcontractors and suppliers—the people who will actually build your home. Beyond these factors, the most important consideration is the quality of the builder’s homes. Cost is not a direct measure of quality. Rather, good quality is the merging of good design with
appropriate products and materials that are installed with superior workmanship. The most expensive window might not look or perform any better than a substantially less expensive window. But improper installation of that window will diminish its quality, regardless of its cost. Generally, costly finishes and fixtures won’t offset shoddy application or installation. Some home buyers locate a builder through a real estate agent. Certainly, no group of people has better knowledge of the local real estate market than the real estate agents who work in that market on a daily basis. Whether an individual real estate agent is well versed in home construction is another matter. Some agents are very savvy about builders and home construction while others aren’t at all knowledgeable about local builders or the new home design and building process. Many real estate agents shy away from marketing and selling brand-new homes while others prosper in this specialty. If you decide to ask a real estate agent to help you select a builder, be sure to consult an agent who understands the realities of new home construction.
Get more, do more, enjoy more this Christmas with RBC.
REDUCED RATES AND LOWER MONTHLY PAYMENTS
GRAND PRIZE $
100,000 CAS SH
PLUS $ every w5,000 eek!
WEEKLY CASH PRIZES OF $5,000 AND A GRAND PRIZE
MORE CASH FOR YOU TO DO MORE THIS CHRISTMAS
RBC makes it more affordable to get everything you want for Christmas and more! • Competitive interest rates on all loans • Secured and Unsecured Loans • Deferred payments for up to two months • Lower monthly instalments Book your loan early to automatically qualify to win the weekly cash prize.
Call 625-4722, visit any RBC Royal Bank branch or go online at rbc.com/caribbean
RULES: • Only clients approved under this promotion get a chance to win the weekly $5,000 prize plus a chance at the Grand Prize of $100,000 • Promotion runs from September 29th to December 31st, 2013 • Winners will be selected by random draw • Employees of RBC Royal Bank and its advertising agencies are not eligible to enter • Promotion is approved by the NLCB • Subject to normal lending criteria. Special conditions apply • The cost of borrowing will be made available upon application ®/™ Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence.
LIVING QUARTERS
Floor Planning To Suit Your Needs
F
inding the perfect plan may be time consuming, but it’s key to the success of building a home. If you’re not in love with the final product, even if it’s only on paper, you won’t be committed to seeing it through to reality. You may already have a picture in your mind of what your dream home looks like. It’s important, however, to ask yourself a series of questions that can help you choose a plan that works for you. The answers will provide direction for finding the home you need, not just the home you want. First, ask the lifestyle questions. Are you single or married? Do you have small children or will you in the future? If so, will each child require a separate bedroom or will they share rooms? How many bathrooms are necessary to adequately fulfill the day-to-day needs of the family? Do you have parents who may be living with you in the future? Do out-of-town visitors often stay overnight? Do you frequently work at home? How often do you entertain? Do you require separate formal
4
and casual spaces for different occasions? The answers to these questions may indicate the floor plan that best suits the way you live. For example, answers to the first few questions help determine the number of bedrooms and baths you need, arguably the most important element of a floor plan. If you have elderly parents or frequent overnight guests, you may want to consider a floor plan with a separate guest suite, which includes a private bath or private access to a full bath. Answering the question about how often you work at home can determine whether a plan with a designated home office, study or quiet computer alcove is a smart investment.
ABSTRACT HOME NOVEMBER 2013 w w w . a b st r a c th o m e . c o m
Answers to questions about how you entertain can help you decide what types of common rooms you’ll need. If you enjoy entertaining on a grand scale, you may want a set of formal rooms (formal living and dining rooms or a library, for instance) that provides the space and the proper atmosphere for such occasions. If your entertaining habits are more casual, you may opt for a large family room adjoining an open kitchen instead. Many people today choose plans that feature a central Great Room, the character of which can change from formal to casual to suit your entertaining mood. Next, ask yourself what kinds of activities you enjoy. Are you an indoor or an outdoor person? If you prefer spending time inside, choose a plan with features that enhance your leisure time: space for media equipment, a hobby room or a studio, or a gourmet kitchen. If you can’t resist the call of the great outdoors, consider a plan with an open porch, a screened porch, a deck, a terrace or some other space that functions as an
outdoor living room. Does the plan allow enough lawn area for children to use for outdoor games and sports? If gardening is your passion, consider the benefits of a plan featuring a mudroom near the utility room and a half-bath, for quick and-easy cleanup. Or, choose a floor plan that offers multiple outdoor views overlooking the grand landscape or your handiwork in the garden. Finally, the geographical features of your lot, if you’ve already purchased one, may determine the home best suited to it. A narrow lot usually calls for a design that rises up instead of spreading out. A wide, shallow lot, on the other hand, is perfect for a one-story rambler. A sloping lot offers you the chance to build a home with a daylight (walk-out) basement or an inconspicuous, tuck-under garage. For a scenic lot, you may want a design that offers outdoor spaces like decks or porches providing a panoramic view. Keeping the above factors in mind will help you select the perfect lot for your new home.
LIVING QUARTERS
Laundry Must-Haves baskets, a liner protects clothes from snagging on the sharp edging. Fabric softener It makes fibers softer and ironing easier. However, avoid using it when washing towels as it will make them less absorbent.
L
aundry Day... Just the thought of this particular chore can give you chills. However, you don’t have to panic just yet. The right tools make things much easier for you. Oh, you don’t have a list of laundry must-have’s? Well you’re in luck. We have one for you. Washing basket liner Especially useful with wicker
Detergent Eco-friendly is expensive, but all ingredients are natural plantbased, biodegradable, safe on skin and they won't fade colours. The packaging is also recyclable. Dye grabber Stop your whites becoming pinks by using a dye grabber cloth. It prevents colours running by holding and absorbing any loose dye during the wash.
Pegs For hard-wearing garments like jeans, standard pegs are fine. But, for delicate items, use these soft grip designs that won't leave hard-to-iron-out marks on your clothes. Delicates bag Keep more fragile items, such as tights, snag-free with a simple net bag. It prevents items from being ruined by being twisted around in the machine. Stain removers For individual stains use spray on stain remover before you put in the wash. Or add a stain remover to the wash to keep whites white and tackle tricky stains such as grass stains and red wine.
How To Get Rid Of
Unwanted Garden Weeds can often disrupt an otherwise healthy and manageable lawn with unruly flowers or thorns. The easiest way to prevent weeds from destroying your garden is to monitor their growing pattern and find the simplest most cost effective method to remove them, which would cause the least amount of damage to plants or the environment. Try these remedies at home.
M
any home-owners and landscapers would agree that weeds have a mind of their own. They are difficult to keep at bay and 6
1) Weeding- Probably the easiest way to get rid of weeds although it entails manually removing the grass. But, this method ensures that you pull them up from the roots to prevent them from spreading. 2) Fertilizing- Develop a fertilizing schedule and learn when is the best time to fertilize your soil. Be careful though: fertilizing too soon
ABSTRACT HOME NOVEMBER 2013 w w w . a b st r a c th o m e . c o m
can assist the weeds’ growth and can cause them to spread so you need to know your lawn and its growing pattern. Remember, this method of weed removal does not happen over-night so patience is the key while waiting for results. 3) Mowing- Mowing your lawn regularly and to a proper height would prevent the growth of weeds as it prevents sunlight from nourishing the weeds and causing them to grow. When the weeds are removed, they should be bagged and quickly dispersed of to help prevent spreading to other areas of the lawn. 4) Herbicides- These are the most commonly used as they are easy to distribute and take the least amount of manual labour. They also
come in different forms such as liquid or spray cans. The downside to this however is the harmful effect on neighbouring plants, the environment and you. If not applied properly or if they come in contact with your skin the effects can be detrimental. 5) Aerating- This is the process of punching holes, usually 3-4 inches deep into your lawn to allow for oxygen and other nutrients to reach to the roots. If your lawn has highly compacted soil then this could be causing weeds to grow and aerating should be the first option in having them removed. 6) Reseeding- although this method is best suited for countries that experience a winter period yearly, reseeding is the perfect method to keep weeds away.
home office
L
Monitor Your Building Spend
et’s face it. Times are hard and money doesn’t come by easy anymore. However, there are still some things which need to be done to satisfy and fulfill any human being who owns a home or is a potential homeowner. With that said, any construction work to be done on a home can prove expensive and in this economic climate cutting costs is imperative. Here are some tips to cutting home construction costs. Build For Energy-Efficiency Don't be put off by the high price tags. Energy-efficient heating systems and "EnergyStar" rated appliances may cost more to install, but can save money (and the environment) over time. The most economical house is the one you can afford to live in for many years to come. Stick To Basic Shapes Triangles, trapezoids, and other complex shapes are difficult and expensive to build. To save costs, choose square or rectangular floor plans. Avoid cathedral ceilings and complicated roof-lines.
8
Best yet? Forget the box and opt for an ultra-affordable dome home Build Small When you compare costs per square foot, a big house can seem like a bargain. After all, even the smallest house will need highticket items like plumbing and heating. But check the bottom line. In most cases, smaller houses are more affordable to build and more economical to maintain. Also, a house that is deeper than 32 feet may require specially-designed roof trusses, which will make your costs go through the roof. Plan Properly Don't plan your home using pen and paper only - sure that planning your dream home requires you to write down and note for appliances, furniture, fixtures, cabinets, flooring and other things that you want. But that doesn't stop there, you need to take control and personally check these items one by one for proper pricing that can help you sum up the total bill rather than visualizing it on the air. Also,
ABSTRACT HOME NOVEMBER 2013 w w w . a b st r a c th o m e . c o m
as easy to browse the internet and do background research where possible to find the ideal specialists. Look at their resume and examine some of their past work where possible.
you may want to set the budget first then from there, derive what suits your needs best based from your maximum amount of budget. In this way, you are ensuring yourself that no over cost will be made upon carrying out the plan that you wanted. Work With the Best Protect yourself from cost overruns by hiring only qualified, reliable professionals, and be sure to detail every aspect of the work to be done in a written agreement. The best way to find good help is through personal recommendations. However, it is just
Ease Up On Labour Costs If you're experienced at do-ityourself work, consider doing some of your own work or acting as the contractor. Because labor often accounts for half (or more) of a major project's cost, you can often save significantly by reducing the labor factor. Just be aware that this can be a big job, and you can't always do it cheaper than a pro. Remember that your time has a value, and you may pay more for materials and subcontractors. Also, don’t do the work if you aren’t fully comfortable with it. Some things are better left to the pros. Double work costs money. You don’t have to spend an entire mint on home construction. You just have to know how to cut corners where spending is concerned. Hopefully these tips helped you to navigate these corners.
elegant ideas
Kitchen Meets Dining Room
This florafriendly room is intimate and enchanting with a hint of colourful excitement w w w . a b s tr a c th o m e . c o m
NOVEMBER 2013
ABSTRACT HOME
11
elegant ideas
A well-designed kitchen island can work well as an eating space 12
ABSTRACT HOME NOVEMBER 2013 w w w . a b st r a c th o m e . c o m
elegant ideas
There is no need to separate the kitchen and dining room with a wall. Mix and mingle w w w . a b s tr a c th o m e . c o m
NOVEMBER 2013
ABSTRACT HOME
13
elegant ideas
A dining room with a place to lounge after a heavy meal 14
ABSTRACT HOME NOVEMBER 2013 w w w . a b st r a c th o m e . c o m
elegant ideas
Capitalize on extra space in your kitchen with a functional dining set
w w w . a b s tr a c th o m e . c o m
NOVEMBER 2013
ABSTRACT HOME
15
KITCHEN
Quicken Your Kitchen Time
Cooking Tips to Help You Get Through Fast
T
hough dicing an onion or peeling and mincing a garlic clove may not take any more than 30 seconds per task, an accumulation of such tasks while preparing a meal can be time consuming. It can also be energy sapping, especially for an individual who has just come home from work and has a family to cook for. That’s why dried and prepackaged foods and seasonings are so handy. Here, we examine how various products and techniques can be employed to cut down on food preparation time. When baking, forget searching for ingredients and use baking mixes. They're almost foolproof these days and are such as chopped walnuts or dried cranberries. Rely on low-fat bottled sauces and dried rubs to flavor meat and vegetables in seconds. This is a useful tip especially when making stir – fries. By all means use frozen 16
western—which cuts back on your need to add lots of seasonings. This can be used to make quick pasta sauce or soup without having to peel, dice or roast tomatoes. Many other canned broths and soups can be used to complement the flavour of a particular dish.
veggies in slow cooker recipes since you're expecting your ingredients to be nice and tender. Plus, you'll save time since your food cooks without you even having to be home. While some things are better frozen, others like meat are not. Having to thaw meat to cook adds extra time and effort. Try ready to cook, pre-
ABSTRACT HOME NOVEMBER 2013 w w w . a b st r a c th o m e . c o m
season meat packs. Depend on the amazing time-savers. Use the baking mixes as is or add a "homemade twist" by adding a fresh ingredient Enhance the flavour profile of your dish, you can always go for canned goods. Canned tomatoes come in so many flavors—Italian, Mexican, south-
Additional Tips:Sort in advance. Put like utensils in the same section of the silverware tray in the dishwasher (knives with knives, small forks with small forks, etc.) so that you can pull them out by group and put them away fast. Just be sure your spoons aren't spooning or they won't get as clean! Keep sponges fresh. Every time you run your dishwasher, throw your kitchen sponges in the silverware tray or top rack. The heat of the washer sanitizes your sponges, making them smell fresher and last longer.
RECIPES
Mmm‌ Chicken
I
t’s the most popular meat in the world and with good reason. There are so many ways to prepare this versatile poultry product and we are sharing some here. Without further ado, here are our finger-lickin chicken recipes.
Baked Chicken Nuggets
1/2 onion, chopped 1 small apple - peeled, cored and chopped 1/3 cup golden raisins 1/3 cup seedless green grapes, halved 1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon curry powder 3/4 cup mayonnaise
Ingredients 3 skinless, boneless chicken breasts 1 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 tablespoon dried basil 1/2 cup butter, melted
Directions In a large salad bowl combine the chicken, celery, onion, apple, raisins, grapes, pecans, pepper, curry powder and mayonnaise. Mix all together, tossing to coat. Salad is ready to serve!
Directions Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Cut chicken breasts into 1 1/2inch sized pieces. In a medium bowl, mix together the bread crumbs, cheese, salt, thyme and basil. Mix well. Put melted butter in a bowl or dish for dipping. Dip chicken pieces into the melted butter first, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Place the well-coated chicken pieces on a lightly greased cookie sheet in a single layer, and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
Ingredients 2 1/2 cups cooked chopped broccoli 2 cups shredded, cooked chicken meat 2 (4.5 ounce) cans mushrooms, drained 1 (8 ounce) can water chestnuts, drained (optional) 2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup 1 cup mayonnaise 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1/4 teaspoon curry powder 1 tablespoon melted butter 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
Fruity Curry Chicken Salad Ingredients 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - cooked and diced 1 stalk celery, chopped 18
Chicken Divan
Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 3-quart casserole dish. Arrange cooked broccoli in prepared baking dish. Arrange chicken over broccoli. Add
ABSTRACT HOME NOVEMBER 2013 w w w . a b st r a c th o m e . c o m
mushrooms and water chestnuts. In a medium bowl, combine the soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice, curry powder, and melted butter. Mix together and pour sauce mixture over chicken and vegetables. Sprinkle cheese on top and bake in the preheated oven until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown, 30 to 45 minutes.
Portuguese Chicken Soup Ingredients 1 whole bone-in chicken breast, with skin 1 onion, cut into thin wedges 4 sprigs fresh parsley 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest 1 sprig fresh mint 6 cups chicken stock 1/3 cup thin egg noodles 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves Salt to taste 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper Directions In a large saucepan, simmer chicken breast in stock with the onion, parsley, lemon zest, and mint sprig until done, about 35 minutes. Remove the breast, cool, then strip off the meat and cut into a julienne. Strain the broth, return to the pot, and bring to a boil. Add pasta and chopped mint. Season to taste with salt and white pepper. Heat until the pasta is cooked al dente. Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice and chicken julienne. La-
dle into soup plates and top with lemon slice and mint leaf.
Cajun Chicken Pasta Ingredients 4 ounces linguine pasta 2 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, sliced into thin strips 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning 2 tablespoons butter 1 green bell pepper, chopped 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped 4 fresh mushrooms, sliced 1 green onion, minced 1 1/2 cups heavy cream 1/4 teaspoon dried basil 1/4 teaspoon lemon pepper 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese Directions Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add linguini pasta, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until al dente; drain. Meanwhile, place chicken and Cajun seasoning in a bowl, and toss to coat. In a large skillet over medium heat, saute chicken in butter until no longer pink and juices run clear, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add green and red bell peppers, sliced mushrooms and green onions; cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Reduce heat, and stir in heavy cream. Season the sauce with basil, lemon pepper, salt, garlic powder and ground black pepper, and heat through. In a large bowl, toss linguini with sauce. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
BRIDAL
S
Creating A Seating Plan For Your Wedding Reception
hould I seat Aunt Caroline next to Grandpa Bob? This is the type of question you may be faced with when creating a seating plan for the reception. Your goal is to ensure that everyone is comfortable and that there are no arguments or bickering especially on your big day. For a small wedding reception you may not need organized seating but for a group of 250 or more, it is highly advised. Here are some things to consider. 1) Organized seating i) Assign tables. If you are having a formal, buffet-styled theme, then assigned tables should be the preferred seating choice. Inform every one of their seating before-hand by sending the table number along with the wedding invitation or post a chart, listing persons alphabetically, at the door. Place a large numbered card on each table and have 20
the master of ceremonies announce the table to be served so that each guest can follow according to the number their table was assigned. It is better to have two serving stations, so that everyone can be served quickly in order to proceed with the rest of the evening. ii) Assign seating. Similar to assigned tables, these can be mailed to guests before hand or a chart can be presented at the door. Also, individual name cards should be placed on dessert forks in case anyone missed the sign. There will be persons who will deviate from this plan according to who they prefer to be seated next to, but an usher can assist with this problem. 2) Who sits where i) Where possible, seat guests in a male-female-male pattern around the table ii) Seat parents with children
ABSTRACT HOME NOVEMBER 2013 w w w . a b st r a c th o m e . c o m
leagues are invited split the seating into two tables to keep the familiarity among the colleagues, but mix the bunch with married couples or singles so that they don’t feel like outcasts.
closest to the bathroom so that there is little to no disruption, if someone needs to use it. iii) If the dance floor divides the room, put guests of both bride and groom on either side to encourage socializing between the families. iv) If plenty kids are invited, have a kids’ table but seat the parents close-by. v) If a large group of work col-
3) VIP’s i) Bridal table-If this is a circular table have the best man, sit next to the groom and the maid-of-honor sit next to the bride. Then, position the others in bridesmaidgroomsman fashion. ii) Head table. This can include only the bride, groom, bestman usually seated next to the groom and the maid of honor seated next to the bride. iii) Separate head table. This is reserved for the parents of the bride and groom, bosses from both companies and specially invited guests who the couple holds in high esteem.
FAMILY
Are You Ready To Date Again?
T
he relationship has finally ended and for days you have done nothing, but sulk and gorge yourself on ice-cream while you listen to sad slow songs in your bedroom. Your room no longer has any of his stuff in it and he has returned all of your things. In no uncertain terms, it is time to move on. That much may be clear, but are you really ready to make that step toward a new relationship. This quiz will help you decide if you are ready to start swimming in the dating pool again. 1. When you meet your best friend for coffee, the first thing you want to discuss is: A. The latest tidbit of salacious and vicious gossip about your friend. B. Your friend. Right now your life is too painful to discuss. C. The great Tai Bo class you recently started. D. The message your ex left on your phone. Maybe there is something left. 2. Your coworker tells you about the great romantic dinner that she and her new love had at a fabulous Italian restaurant. You think: A. I wish I had a boyfriend to take there. B. Oh sure, guys always take you to romantic restaurants in the beginning. C. It would be fun to gather a group of coworkers and head there for a lime. D. My ex used to love Italian food.
22
3. People who use online dating services are: A. Losers and Weirdoes. B. Online Dating? What’s that? C. Normal people who are a tad down on their luck. D. Ahead of their time. 4, You just went on a first date with a man who is smart, funny, handsome and shares your love of old Tom and Jerry cartoons. You: A. Are on top of the world, of course. B. Wonder what's wrong with him, since men always prove themselves to be jerks. C. Feel conflicted. You’d like to see him, but you are slightly cautious still. D. Aren't really interested. He was sweet, but he's not my Ex. 5. You're at a party and you see your ex -- with a date. You: A. Leave pronto. It's too painful to see him with someone else. B. Retreat to the ladies' room for some deep breathing, but make it through the evening -- with the help of an extra-big martini. C. Say hi to him and introduce yourself to her. After chatting briefly, you excuse yourself and continue with your evening. D. Get drunk and start badmouthing him to anyone who will listen. 6. You find yourself most drawn to men who: A. Look exactly like your ex.
ABSTRACT HOME NOVEMBER 2013 w w w . a b st r a c th o m e . c o m
B. Look nothing like your ex. C. Treat you like the smart beautiful woman you are. D. Have an aura of being slightly unavailable 7. It's Friday afternoon, and suddenly you realize you have no plans for the weekend. You: A. Panic. Call everyone from old college friends to coworkers from three jobs ago -- anything to avoid being alone. B. Feel relieved. You could go for a couple of days of eating ice cream in front of the tube. C. Check the weekend section of the paper for movies or art exhibits. You'll call a few friends, but if they can't join you…that's no big deal -- you'll just go on your own. D. Call your ex. Maybe he's feeling lonely too. 8. At your younger sister's wedding, the D.J. calls all couples out to the dance floor. You: A. Link arms with the other unattached bridesmaid and say let's go out for a cigarette, even though you don't smoke. B. Go to the bar and deliver a loud sermon on our messed-up couple-centric society. C. Ask a cute groomsman to dance. D. Think about what a great dancer your ex was. 9. When you see couples who have been together for a long time you think: A. They must be miserable. B. They must know something I
don't. C. They must have found the right person. D. They must be incredibly happy. 10. At a friend's urging, you agree to meet her cousin for a drink. He's 15 minutes late. You think: A. He's not going to show -- just like all the other creeps. B. My ex was never late. C. He must be held up in traffic. D. He probably has a good reason for being late, but you still feel hurt. A person who is ready to start dating again would have answered “C” to most if not all of the questions in this quiz. The “C” answers are definite signs that he/ she has moved on from the low point and holds no grudges against the opposite sex in general. If you have answered all of the questions with “C” you obviously do not need a man around you 24/7. It also proves that your new man will not be punished for your ex’s sins. Those who have answered “A” to the majority of the questions definitely should not be dating period. This shows you have a lot of emotional baggage and view men with an inner contempt and disdain. “B” and “D” answers are pretty much in between. However, too many of these answers show that you may still not be ready for dating as you are still confused. You should have at least 7 “C” answers if you are looking to be back on the dating scene. All in all, even 9 “C” answers are negated by one “A” answer. Look out for our next Ab Home Quiz soon.
WARDROBE
POWDER ROOM
Your Fashion Questions Answered
Hair Care Tips
N
o beauty regimen is complete without special attention being paid to the hair and scalp. Cosmetics can conceal almost everything face-wise, but your hair tends to stand out more prominently than anything else. This simple tips will go some way toward you having a better hair day.
1
To give hair more elasticity, make sure to moisturize hair each day. Elasticity is the ability of the hair to stretch and then spring back into its original position. To test for the elasticity of your hair take a strand and stretch it. If the hair springs back its fine; if it breaks treat hair and avoid chemicals for a while.
4
Never brush your hair when it is wet as this causes breakage because hair is most brittle when it is wet.
5
2
To help hair grow fast take a mineral supplement every day, massage the scalp regularly, eat healthy and exercise. Do not over process hair with chemical treatments. Get regular steam and protein treatments for hair.
3
If you want to get nice waves in the hair after shampooing braid hair while it is damp and leave it to dry. When it is dried, loosen the hair to get a nice, natural wave look.
A good wide tooth comb, a pick and your fingers are best for removing tangles and knots. Take your time while combing your hair. Comb the ends first then move towards the roots. To help prevent breakage never sleep with a tight ponytail or braid. This will cause damage to the hair in the form of breakage.
6
I
t never ceases to flabbergast us when we observe atrocious kaleidoscopes of cloth covering bodies unaware of how conspicuously they stand out among the more fashion conscious and stylishly up to date “Joes’ and ‘Janes” who saunter through our society. We are even more astounded to note that more of these misguided fashion miscreants are not bombarding professionals - like us – who are always ready and willing to render much needed assistance. For yet another time, we are about to attempt answering the conundrums that perplex the genes and jeans of those of you who wonder what to wear, when to wear it and how to wear it.
gantuan, massive, unforgivable lie. What is even more unfortunate is that we are forced to face these lies every time we pass a fifty-year-old woman exposing wrinkled cellulose laden legs or a forty year old balding man trying desperately to hold on to a dreadlock with diamond studs, and a golden grill. I rest my case.
What’s the deal with bear legs vs. hosiery? Love legs. Love em! But, the truth is panty hose are still in. In times past they were worn in a myriad of colours to match the outfit. That fashion faux pas should stay exactly where it is… in the past. If you must wear stockings, skin colour is always best.
I just got a really cool pair of white jeans. It’s a colour that I won’t usually wear in pants, but they fit great. Do I absolutely need to wear them with white shoes? It’s called the monochromatic look and it’s as boring as listening to the wind. All that white would be blinding. Create some contrast for goodness sake. If you must match something, twin the colours of the shoes and the shirt. sales taxes. Some sites charge a sales tax as well as shipping charges. Avoid them. It’s all about saving.
How old is too old to wear something that’s in style now? In the fashion world, the saying that age is just a number is a lie. A huge, humongous, garw w w . a b s tr a c th o m e . c o m
I got a pair of black leather sandals with white shorts for my birthday. Can I wear them together? Also, should I wear black or white socks? You can get away with wearing them together if you wear a black polo shirt, but for the love of God, don’t wear socks with sandals. PLEASE!
NOVEMBER 2013
ABSTRACT HOME
23
MEDICINE CABINET
I
Medicine Cabinet Tips
t’s good that you have medication in your home and at the ready to battle various health issues. However, improper storage and disposal can have adverse consequences. These tips will be beneficial to you and your family. Most medications like to be kept at room temperature, out of direct light and with little exposure to moisture. This is why, in some cases, the bathroom medicine cabinet is the worst place to store medications. Many bathrooms can be warm and steamy. If this is the case in your home, you might want to think about storing your medications elsewhere. Just make sure that wherever you store your medications, they are out of the reach of children and pets. Ask your pharmacist if your medications have any special storage requirements. This brings up another point; always keep medicines in their original containers. I recommend this for two reasons. The first is that many people forget what a specific medication is for when it is not in its original container. Pharmacists have been asked to identify a non-distinct, round, white tablet more times than they care to mention. Without the original package, you will not know the expiry date, dosages or warnings. Another reason is that many of people travel with their medications. Would you like to explain to a Customs Officer why you have
24
home gym
unmarked white tablets in an unlabeled bottle? So what do you do with any unused or expired medications? You can return expired medications, vitamins and over the counter medication to any pharmacy. Every pharmacy should have the means to dispose of these items properly. If you would like to be helpful and make it easy on the pharmacy staff, there are a few things you can do. Return all liquid products in their original containers. If any items are narcotics, please return them in their original container with a note of how many tablets are in the bottle. All other tablets and capsules can be emptied into a single container. A large bottle or Ziploc bag works great. There are some exceptions. If you have any questions, call your local pharmacy about returning medications. Basically, if you bought it at a pharmacy, it can come back to a pharmacy. • Always store medications securely and out of sight, even if the next dose is to be given in the near future. In other words, out of reach and in child proof containers. • Never refer to medicine as candy or a treat • Ask house guests to store handbags, which may contain medications, in a safe location • Don't take your own medication in front of children, as we all know, they like to imitate grownups.
ABSTRACT HOME NOVEMBER 2013 w w w . a b st r a c th o m e . c o m
Avoiding Burn Out
B
urn out happens when you're physically tired and disgusted at the mere thought of doing something...kids pushed into singular sports early on often get this way. Mom and dad force them to play baseball for 11 years and right when mommy and daddy are thinking scholarship, Junior decides he'd much rather try out for the school play. Here are some great ways you can avoid burn out and fatigue in your routine.
Mix it Up! One of the worst things that can happen to your workout routine is that you fall into a plateau...you keep doing the same workout, but your body has adjusted and you no longer get the results you have been seeking...you just "maintain" your weight or you don't gain any more strength. The best way to bust out is to switch up your workouts. By adding variety you'll employ the science of muscle confusion, which will cause your muscles to shake off their sleepiness and start transforming the way you want them to. Keeping Track One thing that many people tend to do is over-train. This is where you over-exert yourself to the point where the kinetic
chain of your body begins to break down at various points. Tweaked your ankle, but still ran that three-miler yesterday? Felt a twinge in your shoulder, but still completed that upper body workout? Those are the signs of overtraining. It's important to listen to your body, it will tell you much when it comes to working out. If you do suffer a minor training injury, allow yourself some time to heal by not putting stress on that particular muscle group or performing repetitive exercises that use those muscles or ligaments. It's OK to Take a Break We all get burned out. Sometimes your heart or head is not in your workout. It's ok to take a break from the gym. Maybe you're going on vacation. Maybe you're physically tired. Just know that when you get back into it, your body and mind will be recharged and refocused for the task at hand.
GARAGE
PETS
Safe Driving Tips
T
he worst thing about most drivers is the fact that they all think they are the greatest drivers the world has seen. Therefore, they approach driving with overconfidence and a lack of attention to care. Our advice is, if you want to stay alive, follow driving laws and regulations and be extremely vigilant. Plus, there are some additional tips below. • Plan your trips ahead of time. Decide what time to leave and which roads to take. Try to avoid heavy traffic, poor weather and high•speed areas. • Wear your safety belt—and wear it correctly. (It should go over your shoulder and across your lap.) • Drive at the speed limit. It’s unsafe to drive too fast or too slow. • Be alert! Pay attention to traffic at all times. • Keep enough distance between you and the car in front of you. • Be extra careful at intersections. Use your turn signals and remember to look around you for people and other cars. • Check your blind spot when changing lanes or backing up. • When you take a new medicine, ask your doctor or phar26
Signs Your Dog May Have Worms
W
•
• •
• • •
macist about side effects. Many medicines may affect your driving even when you feel fine. If your medicine makes you dizzy or drowsy, talk to your doctor to find out ways to take your medicine so it doesn’t affect your driving. Never drink and drive. Never drive when you feel angry or tired. If you start to feel tired, stop your car somewhere safe. Take a break until you feel more alert. Never eat, drink or use a cell phone while driving. If you don’t see well in the dark, try not to drive at night or during storms.
These tips can be the difference between life and death, so be sure to pay attention to them. Safe driving guys.
ABSTRACT HOME NOVEMBER 2013 w w w . a b st r a c th o m e . c o m
orms are one of the most common health problems for dog, but, fortunately, also very treatable. Therefore, it is important for you to learn how to tell if your dog has worms and obtain the appropriate medication.
Below are some common symptoms of worms in dogs. • Visible worms or eggs in fecal matter - This is the most common way to confirm that your dog has worms. However, not all kinds of worms are visible in fecal matter to the naked eye. • Visible worms in fur, or area around dog's rear - Tapeworms, in particular, may appear as small moving segments, which later dry out to resemble grains of rice. • Scratching or rubbing of rear on the ground or against furniture - if your dog shows signs of itchiness around the rear, it may be irritated by worms in the area. However, this could also be due to problems with glands
•
•
•
•
unrelated to worms. Vomiting with visible worms - if your dog has worms, you may also see them in your dog's vomit. Bloated stomach or belly - This is another common symptom of worms, often seen in puppies who receive worms from their mother. Weakness, increased appetite, constant hunger, weight loss - If your dog has worms, the worms are stealing your dog's nutrition. Your dog may be weak or constantly hungry, and in severe cases, may be losing weight. Diarrhea, particularly with blood in it.
TRAVEL
What To Wear When In The Air
A
ir-travel has become more difficult with the implementation of new laws and regulations governing Airports worldwide. As such, travel can be quite a hassle especially when going through the airport. For this reason, it is easier to ensure that you dress as comfortable and light as possible so that your encounter with airport security can be hassle-free. Depending on the country you are travelling to, the weather should determine your dress code. Ultimately, unnecessary pieces should be left in the carry-on luggage, until you reach your destination. You can wear layers of clothing, but keep it at a minimum. Maybe 2 or 3 jackets on your person as the temperature on the aircraft can change periodically and it is always better to be prepared for the weather in the visiting country. Wearing less clothing also means fewer pieces to remove when going through the scanners. A basic cotton t-shirt worn under the jacket is recommended as cot-
28
ton keeps you cool when necessary and will not give a bulky look if a jacket or overcoat is worn over it. The best footwear is low heel shoes or flat, comfortable covered slip-ons. If the weather in the country that you are flying to is warm; open-toed slipsons or sandals are preferred. For those wearing covered flats or sneakers, wear a pair of socks as your footwear needs to be removed before going through security. For this reason, wear loose-fitting shoes so that there is no difficulty when removing them. A pair of socks can prevent your bare-feet from touching the ground after your shoes have been removed. If the socks are to be worn with a pair of sneakers, a pair of cotton athletic socks should be used in order to keep your feet moisture-free. Remember to leave enough room in the show to accommodate the socks. Airline travel tips recommend wearing long-sleeve shirts and long pants when flying. Not only does it keep you
ABSTRACT HOME NOVEMBER 2013 w w w . a b st r a c th o m e . c o m
warm, but it is the best choice in case of an emergency. If there was an accident on board, certain materials are highly flammable such as nylon, polyester, rayon or panty-hose, therefore these should not be worn. Instead, they suggest clothes made of cotton, wool, denim, or leather. For overnight flights, dark colours are recommended as they trap heat and can provide an ample amount of warmth when the aircraft gets cold. Materials made from lycra and cotton materials provide sufficient insulation, but do not wear too many pieces for they can provide too much heat. Wrinkle-free clothing is highly recommended (especially shirts) because you will be moving around and shuffling about from time to time. This happens from the moment you exit the taxi in one country and enter a taxi in another. Also, you may shift a bit in your seat during your flight. After all, some flights can last for over 10 hours and during that time you
may have to visit the washroom a couple times or walk around the aircraft a bit to prevent restlessness. There is a product known as skins that increases circulation and lowers the risks of leg pain during long flights. Some athletes swear by this product as it keeps the muscles free which results in less discomfort and pain. It also increases energy levels. Stock up on some skins before your next flight Pockets should be emptied of all loose metal-like items such as loose change, jewelry, metal belts and buckles. These should be left in your carry-on luggage until you arrive at your destination or until you clear the security area. Wearing the right clothing when flying can make you better prepared for long flights or the dreaded delayed or layover flights. It can also ensure maximum comfort during the flight and can curb the effects of jetlag ensuring that you are full of energy and ready to go, when you arrive at your destination.
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