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LIVING QUARTERS
2013 Décor Trends
orated home always remains. In 2013, there is no shortage of home decorating trends. Here is a look aat some of them.
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Antique Furniture Few things add an air of class to a space like a classic furniture piece. Period furniture give depth and character to a room. Their unique style can set a total theme or act as a mesh between old world style and contemporary. "I hope people start looking at period furniture again — beautiful old pieces to mix with modern ones. Why pay $12,000 for a new chest of drawers when you can buy a gorgeous handmade faded mahogany thing at auction for $1,200?" ome decorating trends may change, but the quest to have a well dec-
Bright Colours Thanks to Photoshop, HDTV,
and hi-res computer screens, people have dialed up their sense of vision. Because of this, more saturated hues have become popular. Rooms are now much brighter. You can feel free to use Life Savers candy colors on an interior project and not have to worry about being too gaudy. In 2013, bright is right. Ethnic Influence In 2013, African influences are said to be a major trend, bringing warm colors and animal skin imitations back into the eclectic interiors of most fashion enthusiasts. Similarly, blends of Arabic influence go a long way to completing décor. Thick, rich drapes and more are the go for 2013. Texture and Touch If people did not pay much at-
tention in the past to how a furniture object feels when touching its surface, this is probably due to the fact that functionality used to be the main sought after characteristic in a household item. Now things are much different. People are in search for “touchable” textures, which inspire warmth and comfort as a way to engage and experience a proper home atmosphere. Suede and wood are two of the materials which will define the interior design world in 2013. Variety of texture will also be a key factor in arranging spaces.
Playful Pieces Home accents with a playful punch are on the rise. The idea is to introduce a bit of whimsy into your home — a piece or object that provides eye candy for you and your guests.
Land Purchasing Tips Elevation If the land is located near hills, how likely is the land to move? Some slab foundations can crack if the land is unstable. Find out if your parcel lies within the path of a potential landslide. For construction near bodies of water, you might want to consider building a raised foundation and make sure to buy flood insurance. If the land was once a swamp, ask neighbors about the condition of their foundations.
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veryone in Trinidad wants land ownership; even the folks who already own vast amounts. Too many people get into old age regretting the parcel of land they did not buy when it was cheap. However, acquiring land is not as easy as paying the required price. There are other things to consider.
Road Access It's impossible to overemphasize how terribly important access rights are. Be certain beyond the shadow of a doubt that permanent, legal, transferable access is specified in the deed. Never buy any piece of property without it. Just think: what sense will it be to have land if you can’t even get trucks and tractors to the location for building.
Water Sources Water availability is essential and is often desired for aesthetics as well as drinking, bathing, washing, cooking, cleaning, toilet facilities and watering vegetation. We also enjoy ponds, rivers and streams for recreation. Others enjoy the tranquil sounds that our streams, rivers and oceans can provide. Without a doubt, water availability is a major concern. Waste disposal This goes for both solid and septic. How far is the landfill? Is there a collection service? You can’t burn everything; how will you get rid of it? If you don’t have access to public utilities, will your land support a septic system as well as the water to operate it? Smells and Sounds Realize that you might be w w w . a b s tr a c th o m e . c o m
trading exhaust fumes from city buses for the lovely odors produced by pig farms. Some farm animals such as geese and donkeys produce squawks and brays that travel for miles. Horses along country roads drop steaming piles of waste. It's not like anybody carries along a plastic bag and picks up after their horses. Market Research Research market prices in the area before going into a deal and agreeing on a price. Get a real estate appraisal. This way you can ensure that you are paying a reasonable price. It is better to pay for the land in cash directly, instead of going for real estate loans. Land buying loans can be very costly and can put a lot of financial burden. Saving money and buying your land within that budget is a better option!
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LIVING QUARTERS
Tips To Ensure A Great Bathroom Renovation
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hough you may not spend as much time in the bathroom as most of the other rooms in the house, importance should be placed on design scheme when focusing on redoing a bathroom. Here are some tips to ensure a great remodel. Hang a stylish mirror for style, space and functionality. One beautifully framed mirror over a sink is more attractive than many surfaces covered with mirror. Supplement it with a wall-mounted adjustable makeup mirror, and consider installing a lighted, mirrored shaving niche in your shower stall. To make your bathroom feel more spacious, a clear shower screen is a winner. It’s also worth considering a frameless shower screen or – if you prefer the hotel-style ‘wet room’ look – no screen at all.
Treat accessories and cosmetics as a work of art. An exquisitely grouped selection of perfume bottles or an array of bathroom towels on an open shelf adds colour and interest. Be sure to choose elegant fixtures. A pedestal sink with graceful lines is more attractive than a blocky cabinet vanity. A classic claw-foot tub is like bathroom sculpture. Even enclosed
in a deck, the simple lines of the lip have an inherent beauty that surpasses most acrylic versions. Don't underestimate the importance of lighting in a bathroom. Sconce lighting at the vanity is the ideal way to get even lighting on your face, and installing it at eye level will help diminish unflattering shadows. Dim lighting is nice for a relaxing bath; bright lights are great for shaving or applying makeup. Adding more overall lighting can make a small bathroom seem larger. As an extra feng shui tip: never have a toilet positioned so that it is facing the door. This has hardly ever been known to be an issue. However, experts recommend that the toilet be positioned ninety degrees to the door or at least several feet away from the door.
Home Electrical Safety Tips
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lectrical safety in the home can never be overstated. It is important to take the necessary precautions and measures to protect you, your home and your family from a potential electrical threat. These tips should assist in that regard. Do Check Ups People who live in homes that are more than 10 years old should consider having the wiring inspected. If your home is more than 40 years old, an inspection is overdue. Be sure to consult with your local building inspector before making repairs.
Don’t Leave Appliances On Make it a habit to turn off electric games and appliances when they're not in use. Before going to bed, make it a routine 2
to check that all electrical devices not in use are properly shut off. Do not stick in nails or try to make holes in the walls of your home It's a potential danger since you may not know what's behind your point of entry. And you should also take care when digging or excavating as you run the risk of cutting live underground wire.
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Listen to your breaker A breaker that trips immediately after it's reset is telling you that there's an electrical problem. Sure, sometimes the breaker itself is to blame, and in some cases there may just be too large an electrical load operating on that circuit. But it's more likely that the breaker is tripping because there's a severe electrical problem. Keep pressing that breaker, and you're likely to cause a fire.
Never throw water on an electrical fire This will be obvious to many PM readers, but in the heat (ahem) of the moment, grabbing a bucket of water can seem tempting, if unreasonable. Water conducts electricity (this is why you don't want to be in a lake during a lightning storm), so throwing water on the fire could cause it to get larger. Instead, use your chemical fire extinguisher. Never ever overload sockets It's a safe bet to always use just one plug in every socket. Even if you are using the adapter make sure it's the bar type that also has a fuse. The total output of all plugs in the adapter should be no more than the specified rating.
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LIVING QUARTERS
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Complete Your Garden Edging
andscape edging is an easy technique to enhance your lawn. Simply by adding landscape garden edging and concrete borders, the landscaped plant beds will be apart from your grass, making a cleaner and more finished look. Most property owners may have their unique choice concerning which style and design they favour, however every one of them have one particular goal: to produce a garden that has a professionally designed look. However, there’s much more to trimming the garden than appearance. It also has sensible purposes and is installed to hold the compost contained within the landscape beds and stop it from spreading all over the grass. Some types of trimming also blocks grass roots, stopping it from working into the beds and smothering your plants and flowers. Particular kinds also establish a fine border down pathways making mowing and trimming uncomplicated and minimizing the level of work you will need to do with the garden trimmers. Here are some landscape edging ideas to help make your garden more inviting and also useful:
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easily make them vanish behind grassy background scenes. Like metal, plastic edgings are fantastic for smooth profiles. Yard trimming made of vinyl or plastic-type materials also mix nicely with the natural environment, so there won’t be any kind of difficulty whatever your garden’s style is.
Metal and Plastic Edging If you want a low-profile trimming on your garden, metallic as well as plastic-type are the perfect options. Metal, such as light weight aluminum or steel is adaptable and will easily be molded into curves. Aesthetically, light weight aluminum and stainless steel are probably the least difficult to make use of. They mix together with the atmosphere and you may very
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Cement Garden Border Landscape edgings made from concrete or stone are called pavers. Pavers are very attractive and simple to install and are perfect if you would like more expansive garden borders and trimming. Pavers are usually preferred by homeowners who want a greater area for flowering plants and trees. Best implemented to develop a flat spot, concrete trimming is also perfect for home gardens with deep inclines and bumpy curves. If you would like use them around snug curves, reducing the pavers into smaller pieces will help a good deal. Stone Border Stone edging is easily the most enchanting of the garden trimming techniques. Rock gives different textures and personality to the garden. There are
various types of rocks that can be used as trimming for gardens. The type of natural stone to work with basically depends on the theme of your garden. But whatever you decide, natural stone trimming will surely produce a attractive look and add useful functionality in your freshly edged garden. Just like pavers, natural stone can also be used to produce a raised edging to trim plants and shrubs. Wood or Bamboo Border Working with real wood as a possible edging material is common for anyone who would like to theme their gardens. Timber trimming is perfect for back gardens which are Zen or Asian influenced. Timber is quite simple to implement, however, you must realise that real wood won’t be as durable when compared with many other materials including concrete and natural stone. Therefore, if you like to enhance the look of your garden or even would like to maximize your residence’s market price; you should consider garden bed edging. This gives beauty, efficiency and personality to your garden environment.
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LIVING QUARTERS
Must Have Supplies For Your House Cleaning Kit
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ousehold chores are called chores because they are just that‌ work! However, some jobs are more likeable than others. If you want some sort of intrinsic satisfaction from doing housework, then you should probably seek to find ways to make your job easier. Having the right products and tools for the job can make your house cleaning a lot easier. Here are some supplies each home should have to facilitate your house-cleaning duties.
Got smelly work boots? Stuff some newspaper in there and wait for the odor to disappear.
Bleach We know bleach is a big must for getting fabrics whiter. But, it also has disinfectant properties strong enough to clean bathroom hardware as well as fight mold and bacteria in some of the most unlikely places, like your toothbrush and the toilet paper roll holder.
Vinegar White vinegar is one of the most versatile cleaning products you can own. With vinegar solutions, you can remove stains, clean glass windows, remove pet odor from carpets and much more. Using vinegar is a nontoxic solution for your household cleaning needs.
News Paper A good floor and furniture protector during messy craft projects, newspaper also works as a great drying material on glass surfaces like windows and mirrors. It can also absorb odors.
Vacuum Cleaner The vacuum cleaner is the most basic of the cleaning tools at your disposal. It is ideal for picking up loose dirt, hair and more from your carpeted and non-carpeted areas. Vacuum
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Club Soda Club soda is great at treating food and beverage stains. But, here are other uses for the fizzy drink: Clean windshields faster and remove rust. The acidity and minerals in the drink along with the carbonation are great in helping to loosen and cut through stubborn particles and grease.
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cleaner attachments let you clean the furniture, catching up crumbs, hair (human and pet), dust and dirt, refreshing as you go. For pet owners, a vacuum cleaner is a necessary cleaning product to keep the animal hair under control, particularly for heavy shedders. Baking Soda Oftentimes, baking soda is mixed with vinegar to create a fizzing reaction, which can be used to unclog drains. But, the odor-neutralizing powder can also be just as effective when used with water -- as shampoo, a stomach soother and even a paste for buffing scuffs on shoes. Floor Sweeper You often see people using these in restaurants for quick cleanups. These sweepers are handy for giving floors a quick cleaning and eliminates the need for pulling a large, heavy vacuum cleaner out of the closet and then having to put said vacuum cleaner back in the closet. Because the sweeper has a dirt catcher, you do not have to employ a broom and dustpan. I
also like the fact that these types of sweepers work on all types of floors -- linoleum, tile, hardwood, and carpet. This makes a broom a moot point, too. Toilet Brush Let's face it; the toilet is not one of the most pleasant things in the world to clean. No house can be without a toilet brush, especially if you are trying to accomplish a quick housecleaning. There are some on the market, too, that have a built-in cleanser on the sponge part of the brush and which is disposable. These types can shorten your time cleaning, too. Disinfecting Wipes This is something else that you might not consider a tool but will be glad that you have handy for those quick clean-ups. Use the wipes to quickly clean kitchen counters. (These wipes also help to eliminate germs and are antibacterial, as well as, disinfecting.) As with the eraser pads mentioned above, you do not have to grab sponges and cleansers either. Just wipe and toss.
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home office
Home Office Necessities That Every Entrepreneur Should Have
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echnology has proven to be beneficial to many people, particularly the creative thinkers among us who have managed to use this innovative tool in their favour. Within recent times, especially since the recession, persons have had to seek alternative methods of employment; mainly starting a business from home. From Avon representatives to franchise owners, gone are the days when everyone has a steady 9-5 job. Because home offices present a certain level of comfort, there are specific ‘must haves’ that every home office needs. Select a specific work area- Ensure that only work is done in this area in order to maximize work space. One of the most important things to remember is to organize your space to complement the way you work. If the shredder needs to be kept closer to you than the decorative plant, ensure that it is, rather than having to walk across the room to carry out this task. Invest in file storage and keep all files and important documents organized, especially the ones you can pitch; tag files, brochures and reference materials with coloured stickers. Post It notes are the least expensive and are very effective. The right chair- Comfort equals productivity, therefore choosing the right chair can make the job easier. Remember to choose a chair that fits the desk and one that gives extra back support: if choosing an ergonomic
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chair, ensure that it has lumbar support that molds to the curve of your lower back. The armrest height should allow your shoulders to relax without tension. Try to purchase a chair with upholstered breathable mesh fabric as the mesh will help get rid of excess heat and keep moisture away from your body. To reduce instances of neck strain, consider a chair with a tilt adjustment. Consider choosing a chair that sits on a five-wheel base as it will be more stable and have a longer useful life. Shredders- To protect your identity and any other confidential information (customer list and proprietary materials) from prying eyes, it is advisable to invest in a shredder. Shredders are sold by capacity and it can be very frustrating trying to shove 200 copies down an 8 copy capacity shredder. Know the amount of paper that your office produces daily so that the shredder purchased can perform at its maximum capacity. Shredding should also be a regular practice, if not daily, weekly or as suggested. Although these might be more expensive, choose a shredder that cuts the paper confetti style rather that ribbon style; ribbon style can be too easy to glue together if a person wishes to extract information from the document. The correct printer Hub- Whether inkjets, laser jets or four in ones, choosing the right printer to support your type of business is important. Though many of us are trying to
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go the eco-friendly route, we may still have to print paper for meetings, conferences and files. Chances are that all your important documents are not stored on your hard drive but in your filing cabinet. Inkjets, the least expensive of the three when purchasing, is very costly to maintain because of near constant cartridge changes, which can cost businesses thousands each month. Laser jets, though the most expensive when purchasing, are easy to maintain. But, in addition to these, fax machines and scanners may need to be purchased separately. This is the advantage that the four-in-one printer possesses over the other two. Four is ones usually have scanner, printer, fax machine and photocopier in one; ideal for small businesses of home offices. Computer- In a world where smart phones (BlackBerry, IPhone) are the newest forms of communication, some business owners might not see it feasible to own a computer as long as they are in possession of a smart phone. But these devices should only be used as an aid when not at the office rather than the only source of virtual communication at the office. Even if using a laptop, every office should have a computer. Laptops are resourceful especially in a power outage; according to the specifications of each model, once the battery is fully charged, you should be able to get a maximum 4-6 hours of usage.
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elegant ideas
2013 Design Schemes
Mixing textures and tones is the theme of 2013. Here, wood, glass and fabric combine w w w . a b s tr a c th o m e . c o m
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elegant ideas
These blue light fixtures do well to break this room’s monotony 12
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elegant ideas
Sharp, angular furniture pieces in rich hues add character to the modern living room w w w . a b s tr a c th o m e . c o m
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elegant ideas
Retro chair covers atop wicker with stained glass window accents give this sitting room a throwback feel
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elegant ideas
Escape the ordinary for a futuristic feel. This round bed is a popular piece
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KITCHEN
Steps to A Germ Free Kitchen
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se paper towels to clean kitchen surfaces. Make sure to use them for one task only. Wiping down one surface and then cleaning another with the same towel can spread bacteria. If you use non-disposable cleaning cloths, wash them in the hot cycle of the washing machine. If you use sponges to clean, place it in the top rack of the dishwasher. Replace them frequently. Germs grow when materials are moist. Clean the kitchen sink, drain and disposal once or twice a week with warm water and soap. Disinfect the drain and disposal by pouring a diluted bleach solution (3/4 teaspoon of bleach in 1 quart of water) down the drain. Bacteria grow on food that gets stuck in the drain and disposal. Natural Options for Killing Germs If you wish to use natural meth-
and can be used all around the home as an all purpose cleaner and deodorizer – just fill a spray bottle with 1 part vinegar to 1 part water (50/50) and you’re ready to go.
ods of keeping your kitchen germ free, these are some options to consider. Vinegar The smell of the vinegar dissolves after it is dried. For a nice post-cleaning scent, add a little bit of organic peppermint extract or other essential oil extract to your vinegar and water solution. You might find some organic clove oil adds a nice spicy scent too.
White Distilled Vinegar can be used to effectively evict most bacteria and germs from their living quarters. That’s because vinegar is a weak form of acetic acid, the pH of which is too strong for most germs to survive. Undiluted Vinegar can be used to clean counter tops, greasy ovens, dishwashers with soap residue, coffee pots, and cloudy glassware. Diluted Vinegar is non toxic
Hydrogen Pyroxide Hydrogen peroxide, the same stuff that you buy to disinfect cuts and scrapes, can also be used to disinfect your kitchen. Just fill a spray bottle and wipe down your kitchen surfaces with 3% hydrogen peroxide (the strength you can purchase at the drugstore) to kill germs. Another bonus: peroxide adds a streak free shine to reflective surfaces. Tee Tree oil, Neem Oil, and Orange Oil Tee Tree oil, Neem, and Orange oil can all be used as safe, effective kitchen cleaners. These all natural products will keep your kitchen clean without leaving behind a chemical residue.
Five Snazzy Kitchen Trends
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hen it comes to décor every era has its own look, feel and mood. What was hot ten years ago may not be hot today and ten years from now we may seem archaic. Right now though, there are some trends that cannot be denied. Here are five of the most fabulous kitchen trends in 2013.
Kitchen/Family Rooms More and more, kitchens, dining rooms and sitting rooms are being incorporated into a unified space. Consequently, kitchen cabinets are looking more like fine furniture, and counters and islands are becoming dining tables. Banquette seating can offer comfortable seating for people who congregate in the kitchen for more than food. 16
Stainless Steel Appliances Stainless-steel appliances bring a sophisticated and rich feel to the kitchen and work with a variety of styles. The sleek silver lines bring a polished look to refrigerators, stoves, and even trash compactors and waste bins. Plus, no more worrying about fingerprints smudging the surface of stainless. Manufacturers offer fingerprint-resistant steel that eliminates this issue.
Walk – In Pantries A walk-in pantry is the perfect solution for families who require must-have kitchen items in quantity. All necessities -- snacks, canned goods, baking supplies, and even surplus goods such as paper towels and aluminum foil -- are hidden behind closed doors. Space is
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systems, and computers, are showing up in all rooms of the home. Another hot trend is making the home "wireless."
reserved in kitchen drawers and cupboards for items used on a daily basis, such as silverware, dishes, glassware, and cooking gadgets, Tech-Friendly Kitchens As people become increasingly tech-savvy, kitchens and bathrooms are being accessorized with electronics rather than traditional decor. Popular electronic items, such as wall-mount televisions, sound
Eco-Friendly Products Products made from sustainable materials are increasingly popular. Eco-friendly cabinetry made from bamboo or wheat board, is often manufactured with low- or no-formaldehyde glues, which protect the home's indoor air quality. Shown here is all-bamboo cabinetry from Laguna Bamboo. Water-conserving faucets and Energy Star-rated appliances help homeowners save money on energy bills and reduce the use of natural resources. Keep reading Home Elegance to catch up on the latest décor trends in each issue.
KITCHEN
Tips To Having An Eco-Friendly Kitchen
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he term “Eco – friendly” is more popular than ever these days and with good reason. The earth is ailing and its people are failing. We are failing to be more energy efficient and conscious of our planet’s limited resources and ultimately earth’s future. However, there are some measures which can be taken to counter these issues even in our own kitchens. Here are some ecofriendly tips for your kitchen. Lighting. To cut down on lighting costs, try using fluorescents. They cut energy use by 50 percent. Whenever possible, use natural light to brighten up your kitchen and bring down your electrical bill.
Top and bottom freezer/refrigerator units. These are more energy-efficient than side-by-side models because not as much cold air escapes. Not sure if your fridge can pass the eco-friendly test? Shut the door on a dollar bill — if it slides out easily then it's a sign the seal needs to be replaced. Ovens. Opening your oven door to check if your food is ready actually reduces its temperature by 25 degrees, making it take more time and energy to cook your food thoroughly than is necessary. You should try to cook the items you need for a meal simultaneously in order to reduce the time you need your oven to be on. Finally, if you have
an electrical oven, turn it off ten minutes before your meal is due to finish cooking. If you don’t open the door, the oven will carry on cooking at the same temperature.
egar are just a few of the common household products which work well in cleaning and sanitizing the kitchen while being less harmful to the environment.
Cleaning. There are plenty of effective, earth-safe cleaners that you can buy or make. Using these alternatives will reduce the toxic burden in your house and environment. Switching to environmentally friendly cleaners protects your health and that of the community you live in while reducing air, water, and ground pollution. Citrus oil, Borax, Baking soda and Vin-
Bonus Tips Finally, try a few of these quick tips to make your kitchen more energy efficient: • Only boil as much water as you need in a kettle • Wash fruit and vegetables in a bowl rather than under the tap • Make sure to fix all leaky faucets quickly. Every drop counts.
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RECIPES
Cool Coffee Recipes
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ome people can’t kickstart their day without a good old-fashioned cup of Joe. Others know that there is more to coffee than just metabolism-spiking caffeine. It can be incorporated into several dishes to really add flavor and pizzazz to your table. Check out these recipes.
Coffee Flavored Fruit Dip Ingredients 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened 1 (8 ounce) container sour cream 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/3 cup coffee-flavored liqueur 1 (8 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed Directions Place cream cheese, sour cream, brown sugar and coffee-flavored liqueur in a medium bowl. Blend together with an electric mixer until smooth. Fold in thawed frozen whipped topping. Chill in the refrigerator until serving.
Coffee Cake Ingredients 2 cups all-purpose flour 3/4 cup white sugar 2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup butter 1 egg 3/4 cup milk, or as needed 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 2/3 cup white sugar 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 cup butter 18
Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch pan. Make the streusel topping: In a medium bowl, combine 1/4 cup flour, 2/3 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups flour, 3/4 cup sugar, baking powder and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Crack an egg into a measuring cup and then fill add milk to make 1 cup. Stir in vanilla. Pour into crumb mixture and mix just until moistened. Spread into prepared pan. Sprinkle top with streusel. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Allow to cool.
Almond Coffee Ice Cream Ingredients 2 cups heavy whipping cream 2 cups half-and-half 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk 1 tablespoon almond extract 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 2 tablespoons instant coffee granules Directions Mix heavy cream, half-and-half, sweetened condensed milk, almond extract, and vanilla extract in a bowl; stir in coffee granules until dissolved. Cover and refrigerate until chilled, at
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least 1 hour. Pour mixture into an ice cream maker and freeze according to manufacturer's directions until softly frozen. Transfer ice cream to a lidded container; cover surface with plastic wrap and seal. For best results, ice cream should ripen in the freezer for at least 2 hours to overnight.
Cappuccino Cooler Ingredients 1 1/2 cups cold coffee 1 1/2 cups chocolate ice cream 1/4 cup chocolate syrup Crushed ice 1 cup whipped cream Directions In a blender, combine coffee, ice cream and chocolate syrup. Blend until smooth. Pour over crushed ice. Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and serve.
Pot Roast in Coffee Gravy Ingredients 1/2 cup flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 (4 to 5-1/2 pounds) beef chuck roast, trimmed of excess fat 1/4 cup vegetable oil 1 large onion, coarsely chopped 4 bay leaves 1 teaspoon dried thyme 2 cups water 2 cups freshly brewed coffee 1 tablespoon instant flour 2 tablespoons butter, chilled 1/4 cup whiskey (optional)
Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste Directions Preheat oven to 325 F. On a large plate or platter, stir together flour, salt, and pepper. Dust the beef roast with the seasoned flour, discarding any excess. Heat the oil in a large, heavy ovenproof skillet over medium heat until hot. Add the roast and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes a side. Remove the roast from the skillet and set aside. Add onions to the drippings in the skillet and sautĂŠ over medium heat until they are softened. Return the roast to the skillet; add bay leaves, thyme, water and coffee. Bring to a simmer, stirring and turning to combine the seasonings with the roast. Cover and place the skillet in the oven. Bake for 3 to 3-1/2 hours or until fork tender. Remove the roast from the skillet, discard any bones or gristle and set aside, loosely covered with aluminum foil. To prepare the gravy, place the skillet over medium heat, skim off any excess fat and add water, if necessary, to equal about 2-1/2 cups liquid. Sprinkle the instant flour over the gravy in the skillet and cook about 5 minutes, stirring until smooth and thickened. Stir in the butter and whiskey, if desired, and season with salt and pepper. Return the roast to the skillet to warm in the gravy, then serve with hot, buttered wide egg noodles.
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BRIDAL
Maintaining A Wedding On The Cheap
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person’s wedding will be one of the most important days in their life. Most will also want to ensure that it is also one of the most beautiful. However, weddings have costs attached to them and cutting costs at your wedding may be crucial to the sustainability of your marriage in the long run. Here are some tips to getting wed on a budget. Season Though people get married all through the year, there is a peak season for weddings. Wedding companies and services are more expensive and less willing to negotiate during these busier periods. You could save across the board on limos, photographers and caterers, etc., by getting married during one of the quieter months, such as January or March. Attire Attire is ten percent of an average wedding cost. Check out sample sales, department stores and outlet stores for the best bargains. Smaller boutiques may also be willing to negotiate better prices than designer shops. If you are having stuff specially 20
tailor made, consider cheaper fabrics. Remember that you will wear that gown only once. If not, consider renting a gown and a tux for your wedding in order to reduce this wedding cost. Guest List It's very easy to over invite people, so scrutinize your guest list. Costs will balloon especially if you are having a sit down meal. Stick to close friends and family, and do not feel obliged to invite plus-ones or distant relatives. Consider whether you would happily buy them a meal and drinks on any other day of the year. If the answer is no, perhaps they don't need an invitation! Furthermore, many of the people who come to weddings are there for the reception. Are you willing to wine and dine someone who really doesn’t care? Venue Forget glitzy hotel halls or big time banquet spaces if you want to save cream for your wedding. Local meeting halls can be acquired for less and can be decorated to look fancy on a budget. Church halls are often good options as well. You can even try for beach side or at a national
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park. For a minimal fee you can set up and get hitched with the added bonus of beautiful natural scenery. Food/Drink A brunch or hors d' oeuvres reception is typically less expensive than a main meal/sit-down dinner. A buffet may be less expensive than a served meal, although not necessarily. A new trend is having a salad bar reception which costs less. Alcohol usually takes up most of the catering costs at receptions. Try having an open bar only during the cocktail hour or if the bride and groom are not drinkers have a ‘dry’ wedding. Wedding Planning Wedding planners can be awful helpful during this stressful period. However, since spending needs to be monitored the need for a wedding planner should also be optional. For most folks, doing it yourself is the more economical, albeit harder, option. Wedding planners aren't all bad though, they have a network of folks they are familiar with and can potentially negotiate discounts in your favor. Instead of paying for a planner,
try getting a wedding planning book and utilize the checklists provided. Plus, professional wedding planners aside, there are normally several resources that you can utilize to assist with the planning and execution of your wedding. Amateur Photographers/Videographers This particular tip is risky but you can save a few thousand dollars by forgoing the professional photographer or videographer and leveraging any burgeoning amateurs you know may. With how far technology has come, amateur photographers can do just as well as the professionals when it comes to taking stills. If they understand composition and other basic photography concepts, you probably will be happy with their work. Plus, you could probably get two up and coming photographers for less than the price of one professional. This would increase your chances of getting great photos. Don’t forget, every dollar you save is one that you can blow on the honeymoon or put toward your future children’s tuition.
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FAMILY
Making Time For Your Family
W
e’ve all said it at some point “I need more hours in the day” or “I don’t have the time for…..”. It gets overwhelming at times and we tend to forget the people who make such a big difference in our live; those who make it worth living: our family. Family time is important, even necessary when children are placed into the equation. It helps builds bonds and strengthens communication amongst relatives and siblings. Though it can be tough setting aside time during the work-week, try these easy steps as a guide. Set aside a specific time for family timeliterally mark the date down on the calendar and ensure that no other events (work, school, extra classes) coincides with this date. Make a time too, so that stuff can be done before the start of family time, but always make family- time the top priority. Make a decision on what should be done- So, the time and date has been arranged but what to do? Have a list of activities that includes everyone’s input. Be fair, let 22
was a team effort. A much needed skill will be passed on and the child will develop a sense of pride in his work. Plan a sports outing- go out to a football or cricket game together. This helps with bonding as the parent is able to teach the children about a particular sport or game. This can develop into a shared love of the sport. Go hiking or camping- these are relatively inexpensive and they promote family bonding. Time shared can also encourage communication amongst family members.
everyone choose an activity and try to finish it before family time is over. Bake or cook together- try getting your children to help you prepare treats. The cookies may be a bit softer than the ones you normally bake on your own, but at least it
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Take opportunities as they come- Never ignore the request to read a book to your daughter or take a walk with your son. Even if it involves a 5 minute interval, this is also time shared and is truly worth it. The phrase “easier said than done” may be tossed about in your mind after reading this. But time spent is truly a way to create an enjoyable family time and an opportunity to learn new things about each other.
WARDROBE
POWDER ROOM
Casual Fashion For Women Pushing 40
Beauty Tips For Dark Skin
W
e are usually inundated with ads that force new beauty products on us. However, these products are not necessarily tailored for dark-skinned Caribbean people. Here are some beauty tips for treating with dark skin. Reduce Exposure to sun/ heat This beauty tip for dark skinned girls is actually good for all of us – stay away from the sun ladies! You never want to lay out in the sun without at least a little protection, for it can be completely damaging to your skin in the long run. So bulk up on the sunblock girls before heading to the beach! Use Cocoa Butter Cocoa butter is a natural moisturizer. It is ideal for dark skin as it reduces the appearance of stretch marks and hyper-pigmentation. It also smoothes rough elbows and knees. Use cocoa butter twice a day to for best results. Products formulated with cocoa butter can be purchased at discount or drug
stores, and pure cocoa butter can be found at health food and organic stores. Avoid Heavy Powder The final beauty tip for dark skinned girls that we’re going to talk about is avoiding heavy powder. Heavy powder can make your face look cakey and like you are wearing makeup, which we all want to avoid! So ladies, keep it light and airy. Use the Right Lip Colour The right lip colour is integral to the overall appearance of the face. Frost finish lipsticks should be avoided. Instead, choose matte finish ones. Shades like browns, burgundy, plums, beige, soft pink and gold are great. There are many lip colors like chocolate and coffee colors that look great on dark skin tone. Stay away from orange on dark toned lips. Prepare a base by a lip balancer. See to it that your lip color is matching with your eye makeup. Do not make the mistake of clashing your eye color with lipstick.
T
hey say 30 is the new 20 and 40 is the new 30, but that doesn’t apply where fashion is concerned. Dress your age. If you don’t know how to do that, this article can help. T-Shirts and Blouses Leave the colorful screenprinted T-shirts emblazoned with witty slogans at home, as these garments speak to a much younger teen or 20-something demographic. T-shirts should be simple and well-cut without being too revealing. A solid colored Vneck or swoop-neck shirt, although basic, allows for easy pairing with dark pants or other accessories. When selecting a blouse, choose light or pastel colors that accentuate your skin tone. As with any top; look for garments that are fitted, as this type of cut will complement your figure. Men's Oxford-style shirts are a great way to add a vintage touch to a look, as long as they are not too oversized. Pants and Skirts Khaki or dark-colored slacks add elegant understatement to any outfit. When selecting jeans; avoid styles that speak too loudly or are intended for a younger age group. Pass over jeans with excessive flarw w w . a b s tr a c th o m e . c o m
ing of the legs (bell bottoms or boot-cuts), faux holes and tears or lots of artificial fading. Instead, opt for straight fitting or cuffed jeans with a clean cut and low pocket count---excess pockets add unnecessary bulk. Skirt length is relative to your body type, but avoid drastically short miniskirts. Pairing a skirt of mid-thigh length with stockings allows you to be casual, comfortable and refined at once. Shoes and Heels Several pairs of comfortable flats are nearly a necessity in any woman's wardrobe, as they are inexpensive and allow for easy color coordination. Black or dark-colored flats add a touch of sophistication to the classic "jeans and a T-shirt" combination. Though flats are great all-purpose footwear, don't underestimate your worn pair of Chuck Taylors or other lowcut sneakers. These will add character to any look. A pair of leather sandals makes casual dress during summer and late spring simple---as long as your toes are ready for the attention. When choosing heels for casual wear; select a pair that is relatively low, balanced and easy to walk in. Avoid dramatic stilettos, as these are anything but casual.
FEBRUARY 2013
ABSTRACT HOME
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MEDICINE CABINET
home gym
Supplementation For Children
T
he little bundles of joy known as your children soon turn into big bundles of joy with needs just like the rest of us. In order to make sure their physical development occurs smoothly, there are several dietary additions to consider. This is because a child’s diet comprises the main mineral and vitamin quota required for steady growth and a comfortable lifestyle. Here are some supplements which are vital in taking your kid through the various transitional stages they will encounter as they head toward adulthood. Magnesium Magnesium is a trace mineral the body needs to function properly. A deficiency of this mineral has been linked to attention-deficit disorder and hyperactivity in children. In one study from Poland, children with ADHD were found to be more deficient than control subjects in a number of bio-elements. Of all the bioelements, magnesium deficiencies were the most pronounced. Magnesium supplements can promote relaxation, focus, attention and restful sleep. Vitamin C Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant and a natural antihistamine and it also helps speed wound healing. This will come in handy for those traditional Trini “boy days.” Vitamin C’s immune-enhancing effect makes it essential in preventing infection as well as in shortening the duration of an illness. Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin which is safe even at high doses. It may even assist 24
in eradicating constipation issues in some people as it may act as a natural laxative. Needless to say, be sure to increase the dose slowly. In chewable form they are a great way to get your kids to take the vitamin C they need to stay healthy and free of colds! Multivitamin/mineral A full-spectrum multivitamin and mineral product in a highly absorbable form is essential to ensure the foundation of health. Vitamins and minerals are necessary for proper growth, metabolism, digestion, immune system function, muscle and nerve function and the detoxification processes in the liver Scientific studies have shown that the majority of us are deficient in many essential nutrients because of poor dietary habits and other factors which may deplete nutrient levels such as caffeine, drugs, stress or pollution. A daily multivitamin can help to keep your child’s energy and concentration levels at their best. Omega-3 Fatty acids, found in Omega-3, make it a great supplement for children's brain function. Several studies have found that Omega-3 is essential for optimal brain functioning. This is a definite bonus as well as the bonus of certain fats acting as anti-inflammatory agents. The Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in omega 3 found in fish oils improves the symptoms of some mental and visual disorders. Children who take fish oils are calmer and have been found to be more productive in school.
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Your Home Gym Emergency Kit
E
veryone feels like a superhero when they’re working out. The endorphins are flowing, your heart is pumping, and you’re feeling good. But accidents can happen at any time and if you’re working out at home you should be prepared for such mishaps. First, you should never workout alone. It doesn’t do nearly as much good to have first aid supplies in your home gym if nobody is there to help you use them.
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Ice Packs: An ice pack is standard for any household, and is crucial to have on-hand if you’re working out. Timely application of ice for strains – and sometimes after a workout – can prevent inflammation and reduce swelling.
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Elastic Bandages: If you’ve ever been unfortunate enough to hurt joints or ligaments, you know the value of elastic bandages. Used for compression and stabilization, elastic bandages are essential to helping prevent further injury.
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Pain Relievers: An anti-inflammatory is always a good thing to have around. In addition to applying
ice, an oral anti-inflammatory like ibuprofen works to keep inflammation down and relieve pain after an injury. If you or any of your workout buddies have sensitivities to ibuprofen, aspirin and/or acetaminophen are essential to have on-hand.
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Defibrillator: Cardiac arrest during an exercise routine is not an uncommon event. Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) give an electrical shock to a stopped heart to restore a heartbeat and can be operated easily by nonemergency personnel.
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First-Aid Guide: Be sure you know how to treat any exercise-related injury properly! There are many first-aid guides available that give easy-to-understand instructions on how to treat almost any injury that can happen. This is an essential component to any first-aid kit!
Exercise and diet are crucial to health, but sometimes the effects of stress and/or poor habits can weaken your body in ways that may not be apparent at first. This weakening can result in an unexpected injury or even cardiac arrest while exercising.
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GARAGE
PETS
Constructing The Modern Garage
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e all think of a garage as a place to park our cars or stock our tools. However, the 2013 garage is a lot more than that. Turn your garage into your personal Shangri-La and enjoy the workman’s dream. Get A Refrigerator Why walk to the kitchen when you get the munchies or you need to get hydrated? No doubt your garage duties will leave you a tad dirty or sweaty. Keep refreshments close and get your munch and gulp on while you work. Top Up Your Security If you’re going to keep anything valuable in there, from your tools to your car, then you’ll want to protect them. Adding a security system is a must. Garages are sometimes overlooked in regards to the rest of house but they shouldn’t be. Add An Entertainment System It is no secret that music can get you through hard work easier. Your garage chores don’t have to be a chore. Turn 26
your garage into your personal man-cave by putting a small radio in there. Better yet, put the old TV in the garage. That way you can keep up with sports, news or just music – Whatever floats your boat. Go Wireless Consider putting a place for a computer in your garage. You might put a desktop in there or, if you have a router, using your laptop and a wireless connector. A computer is handy for when you’re working on a project and you need to quickly look something up. You can even source online parts.
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Maintaining Your Dog’s Rich Coat
P
ets on TV always have such beautiful, shiny coats (Except for Cujo in the Stephen King film – That beast was something else). If you want your dog to look like a movie star pet with a smooth, shiny coat, this article is for you. First, you will need to know dog coat or hair is actually a protein. So in order to maintain healthy and shiny dog coat, you will need to ensure sufficient protein in your dog daily diet. When choosing food for your dog, choose those contain nutrition diet with balance of protein, carbohydrate, vitamins, minerals, and omega fatty acids. I will always recommend meat base dry food which contains at least 20% of protein. I choose meat base as it is easily digestible. Omega fatty acids in your dog foods in other important tips to ensure shiny dog coat. Secondly, know that you should only bathe your dog once a week or fortnight on average during hot weather (unless he’s dirty of course)! Over-bathing can lead to dry skin and irritation. Choosing the right shampoo for your dog is crucial in determining the quality of your dog’s coat. Before purchasing shampoo for your dog, you’ll need to
know what type of skin he has. If he has dry skin, he’ll need moisturizing shampoo. If he has itchy skin, he’ll need oatmeal shampoo. You should only purchase a shampoo that’s formulated for your dog. Use dog-specific hair products to produce a shiny coat. Treat your dog's coat with hair conditioner after washing him with shampoo. It can moisturize the skin and the hair follicles, which produce a softer, smoother coat. Alternatively, spray your dog with finishing spray. Finishing spray contains silicone that coats each hair to provide gloss and enables the hair to lay flat and smooth. Finally, daily examinations, though admittedly a little too demanding and time consuming for the average pet owner, are a valuable tool in maintaining a dog's appearance and good health. The dog should be checked for cuts, rashes, fleas, ticks, bumps and burrs and other hitchhikers that might attach to the coat. These should be removed and antibiotics or appropriate medications applied as necessary. Flea allergies and contact allergies can cause skin eruptions and should be treated immediately.
TRAVEL
Avoid These Travel Mistakes
H
ave you ever noticed how easy it is to spot a tourist? They try their hardest to blend in but always seem to stand out with their large cameras, happy disposition and loud, thick accents. For this reason, it makes them easier to be spotted by thieves and can lead to robberies or even death. Apart from blending in, there are other mistakes that tourists make or several misconceptions that tourists can have about a particular country or city. When travelling, it is important to familiarize yourself with a country’s culture, so that their differences don’t cause you to get culture shock- which is the difficulty one person has with adjusting to another’s culture differently from their own. See below tips that can assist with this.
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Don’t set unrealistic expectations, but rather keep an open mind. Remember the advertisements were done to draw you in, to make you want to take that trip but not all advertisements are a true representation of what the product or service really offers. Instead be ready to take on all challenges with an open mind and a smile.
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Do not ignore the advice of the locals; if the news lists
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certain areas that are dangerous and cautions you to stay away from those areas, do not venture there. Leave your adventurous side when you’re in the presence of company or when it is daytime.
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Do not overdo, particularly when drinking. Drink in moderation as alcohol is a quick way to waste your funds irresponsibly, impair your judgment and slow down your reaction time, leaving you vulnerable to robberies or getting injured.
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Do not be insensitive to the country’s cultural or religious practices. When visiting certain countries, the law states that ladies should cover certain parts of their bodies and that no alcohol is to be consumed after hours in the streets. Doing proper research before taking a trip should be helpful here, as it educates you about on acceptable and unacceptable behavior. This way, you can avoid insulting the locals and will help you blend among them ensuring a safe and enjoyable stay.
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Do not expose your valuables. Items such as cameras, cell phones or laptops should be carried closely on your person and shielded at all times. The same goes for jewelry; even if
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all the locals is wear their jewelry in the open, a thief may spot an unknown face and target you rather than a citizen.
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Do not just ask one person for directions. Chances are they may have given you wrong information on purpose as part of a set-up or some may not know the place or area of which you speak. Some locals will admit that they have not seen many of the landmarks or visited the many tourist destinations that foreigners travel miles to see in their country, as they get caught up in the hustle and bustle of their everyday lives.
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Do not follow a guide book to a tee. Rather chart your own journey, with the presence of a tour guide and friends. Visit areas that may not have been advertised but the ones which caught your attention while researching. Be the first tourist to visit that place and capture its beauty.
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Know the conversion rate of your country’s currency to the foreign currency or convert your country’s currency to the visiting country’s currency. This is especially helpful when purchasing items such as clothes or foodstuff. The simplest solution is to convert your country’s cur-
rency to the foreign country’s currency or use a currency that is acceptable in both countries such as the (United States dollar) USD.
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Be able to tell a taxi-driver at least the name and number of the street that the hotel of where the hotel is located. This is where research plays a very important role. You may not know the color of the hotel but you should be able to name the street, the street number or any land marks that are close to where you are staying of where you would like to go.
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Keep luggage to a minimum. It’s a vacation not a migration; walk with as little as possible so that you have room to carry all that was purchased on the trip home. Also, travelling light can ensure that you are able to remove your personal items easily in the event of an emergency evacuation. The most important mistake of all is not having fun. Remember, there’s a reason why you took the trip. Whether business or pleasure, it’s an opportunity to see and experience new things so have an open mind, an adequate supply of cash, clothing and place to stay but enjoy the trip to the fullest.
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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