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.
Maintenance Tips For Your
Beachfront Property
as fiberglass. Hot-dipped metal galvanized or stainless steel fasteners are the best parts to use when you have to use metal. If you find yourself needing to replace the rollers under sliding glass doors, stainless steel is a good choice, even if it’s not completely impervious to rust. Considering your other options, it’s one of the best.
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ceanfront properties require year-round inspection and maintenance. To keep your home in top condition, you need to have different maintenance items completed throughout the year, especially during hurricane season. It’s not enough to only perform upkeep during vacation season. You must ensure that your home is constantly cared for to prevent wind damage and pest infestations as well as to keep it secure from theft. Employ Resistant Materials First things first, you need to equip your beachfront property with materials that can guaran-
tee it will withstand the harsh conditions and the threats that it will face. Water, wind and salt can wreak havoc on your investment so use materials that aren’t easily susceptible to decay. Be sure to coat your wood, concrete and steel with high grade treatments and paints to preserve them as much as possible. Windows/Doors Windows should be cleaned
weekly. Also, higher thickness in window panes and shatterproof glass is recommended for ocean-facing windows susceptible to high winds. Because salt buildup is so corrosive to metal components, it’s advisable to use fiberglass framed doors and windows and avoid metal parts as much as you can. Vinyl and aluminum can also be used for window frames, but these materials aren’t as anti-corrosive
Pest Control The best thing about a property on the beach is being at one with nature. This is also potentially the worst thing. Insects and bugs thrive in this environment (especially termites). The houses on the ocean are the first to be chosen by the swarms when they arrive. Both subterranean and flying termites can attack your home. Ensure you are on a quarterly pest program; this continual vigilance will save the structure of your home.
Moss Management
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ossy driveways, walkways and walls are not only unsightly but may cause a threat to your safety. Almost everyone can relate to the banana peel effect of a mossy pavement. However, moss does not have to get the upper hand in your home. Moss removal is simple. It just takes
a little time, very little money and some effort. The first option to remove moss is simply power washing it away. High powered streams of water will uproot moss and wash your problem away. The problem is, not many people have their own power washers and some older folk may find it difficult to lug around and maneuver such a device. Powdered laundry detergent has also been used successfully in some situations to kill moss. By mixing a cup of powdered detergent with 10 gallons of water you can apply this solution to areas such as patios and kill some of the moss growing on them. In areas where bleach is
not likely to damage property or vegetation, you can combine it with the detergent-water mixture, or dilute the bleach and apply it alone to mossy areas. To kill moss on roofs, placing a zinc strip along the peak of your roof will help to kill and prevent moss for many years. You can also use other products made to kill moss that contain zinc sulfate that you apply to your roof in granular or liquid form. Overall, it should be noted that the best way to deal with moss is to remove the elements it thrives under. Moisture and shade from the sun encourage moss growth. By removing or inhibiting one or both these w w w . a m g tt. c o m
natural influences, you can affect the growth of moss in areas where you'd like to see it removed. You are not likely to control nature's moisture, but guttering and proper drainage can help to reduce the prevalence of water over extended periods. In terms of dealing with too much sunlight, you can remove the things which provide cover for the moss. For example, you can sometimes remove or trim trees or vegetation that produce the shade the moss craves. These easy tips can help to rid your home of its moss problem and provide a safer, aesthetically sweeter environment for your family. APRIL 2018
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LIVING QUARTERS
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any times when something goes wrong with an entryway, homeowners blame the door itself. But a door is only as dependable as its components and most problems occur when the inner workings don't match up to the exterior function. So when on the search for new door hardware, be aware of these 4 simple tips to help in your selection. Maintenance: If a door is to remain functional, then you have to make sure all the inner
Door Hardware Tips (and outer) workings are running smoothly. Never leave a lock broken (and if you can't fix it yourself, call a locksmith). Make sure your doors open and close smoothly (if they drag, call a handyman for help). And if there is a squeak in your hinges, don't use chemical lubricant as it may remove the quality finish or specialty coating. Simple soap and warm water will often do the trick, but always consult the manufacturer to see which maintenance option will work best for you Attachments: It's not just about latches and hinges. Door hardware can take on all kinds of components. For added protection to your walls, invest in some kick plates and spring door stoppers. To brighten up the entrance, buy an address plate or door knocker. In the bathroom,
install a hanger or two for those wet towels. New decorations are constantly being invented. For instance, if you have elderly guests, then door-levers may be better than handles or for handicapped residents, there are always new innovations in automatic openers. Safety: Locksets are probably the most crucial part of any entryway. You always want your locks to be state of the art (keyless lock systems have grown in popularity) but more importantly they have to be durable. In other words, don't go for high-tech models (keypads, card-swipes) if they require a lot of maintenance. If a lock isn't reliable, then it's worthless. For traditional exterior doors, go for a single cylinder dead bolt, which requires a key outside and uses a thumb-switch inside. If you have
glass porch doors, then you may want to go for a double cylinder, which requires a key for both the inside and out. This way, even if a burglar breaks the glass, it's still difficult to gain entry. The Looks: Make sure to match all your door hardware throughout the house. Though you always want to put function ahead of form, you also want to keep an entryway looking good. A very popular trend, for both the exterior and interior, is to get retro. Nostalgic products, such as glass door knobs or brass handles, are timeless and never go out of style. These little accents can really enhance the look of a home. And since the entryway is the first thing people see, spending time and money on beautiful door dĂŠcor will ensure that guests get an appropriate first impression.
How To Choose A Doormat
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hen it comes to the door mats that a person is choosing, they will find that they have tons of choices, and it can be a bit overwhelming. A door mat is just not a door mat to most people, this is one way that they can show their personality and for other people this is something that serves the purpose of keeping their house cleaner, thus it is easy to see why people want to make sure that they are finding the best door mat that is out there for them. With that being said, most people are unsure of just how they should go about choosing a door mat for them. Examine the entrance where there door mat will be placed. Consider a decorative door mat if the entrance to your home needs something homey and welcoming. Also take a photo of your exact home's exterior if you
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want to match a decorative door mat to the exterior decor and style. A decorative door mat is a
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good pick for an apartment with an interior hallway, or a condo with a complete overhang, and
protected door entrance. Pick a rubber door mat for an entryway that is used frequently by small children or the elderly. A rubber door mat creates a safe entry for guests and residents. A rubber doormat is also a good door mat to pick for areas prone to rain. Pick this type of door mat to place outside of a mud room or patio. The issue of size and shape is another consideration that should never be ignored. The door mat must cover a sufficient area for the guests to use it effectively. What’s more? The size must complement the main idea of using the mat first; wiping away dirt and absorbing moisture. A very small mat will not work well for a large house because such a house may have many guests. On the other hand, a large mat will be problematic when it comes to cleaning.
LIVING QUARTERS
Achieve Zen In Your Bedroom
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fter a long day at work, most people head to their bedrooms to relax. The bedroom should be the most intimate and personalized room in your entire house. It is where true expression can take place, allowing you to create your own little world. For many this simple place can be an escape from the outside world. This article will guide you on how to set the energy right in your bedroom by showing simple ways to Feng Shui your bedroom. Say goodbye to the TV, computer and exercising machine – these items disrupt the Feng Shui in the bedroom. Open windows – Allow fresh air into your room. If this is impossible to do, invest in an air purifier to remove any toxins that may be present in your room. You would feel better just
books stacked neatly and in size order, clothes packed in the respective places and the stuff that you can’t just seem to categorize, place them in baskets, hidden away from eye sight. Keep them together – Similar furniture should be placed together as this creates harmony in the room. Ultimately, this can help you sleep better at night.
knowing that you are inhaling clean air. Plants in the bedroom – this is only a good idea if it is a fairly large bedroom and the plants are located far away from the bed. Colors – Use soothing colors to achieve Zen in your bedroom. A good example of this would
be deep chocolate brown sheets contrasted with white pillows. The walls should be painted in earthy tones to match the sheets and pillows. De-clutter – A messy room will definitely disrupt the Feng Shui. It symbolizes unfinished business and can make you feel anxious - the opposite of what Feng Shui represents. Keep
Placement of the bed – Move it against the wall and allow access to it from either side. Remember, soothing is the objective so choosing sheets should have the same effect. Circular patterns are known to have a soothing effect. Doors – keep all doors closed at night. This will help block out noise and distraction which can disrupt your sleep.
Make The Most Of Your Mop
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opping is one of the most dreaded chores in the household. Floors can be difficult to keep clean (especially in the kitchen and toilet). They get more 4
traffic than almost any other area in the home. Hot, humid conditions make things worse as they make the floors sticky. Here are a few quick tips for cleaning your floors to make the job a little easier. First, clear the room of all small furniture and other items. Then, give the floor a rough sweep. Using a broom and dustpan, sweep the floor making sure to reach the corners and along the baseboards. Once this is done, vacuum the floor to remove the residual dust. If you don't own a vacuum, you can either use a dust mop or even a regular mop that is just slightly damp. It is important to use the correct amount of floor cleaner. If you try to be cheapo and use too little it will not work as quickly. If you use too much you will leave a residue on the floor making it get dirty quicker. Choose the right mop for
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dry quickly. Mopping is just like scrubbing so apply pressure and move the mop left to right. Every time the water in the bucket gets dirty, change the water and continue with the floor cleaning. Do not mop wooden floors. Wipe only if the floor is stained (in case of emergency).
the job and begin. There are two general types of mops for floor cleaning. The string mop is for rough areas and the sponge mop is for smooth floors. When you mop a floor you need to move backwards from the starting point so that your foot prints do not dirty the floor again. Always squeeze the excess water (wringing) from the mops so that the floor gets
Bonus Tip Mix 1 cup of vinegar with 1 gallon of hot water to cut through sticky spills and stuck-on food to make your floor shine. Hand cleaning the floor with the vinegar solution works better than doing so with hot water, and can take the place of the monthly deep cleaning. Warning: Some kitchen floors, such as linoleum and wood, may be reactive to vinegar. For these floors, stick with a regular mopping solution. Use diluted vinegar for spot cleaning and dry immediately.
LIVING QUARTERS
Keep Your Home Cockroach Free Organically
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hen it comes to cockroach control most people will scream "No mercy!" The problem is that some roach pesticides will poison you too! Here are a few non-toxic solutions to get rid of cockroaches. If you do not want to use pesticides, the good news is that organic pest control is possible for cockroaches. Before we begin to discuss organic options, it is a good idea to proactively do everything possible to limit the opportunities for cockroaches to enter the home in the first place. Cockroaches are attracted to areas that are dark and damp like under kitchen and bathroom sinks. Be sure to fix dripping faucets or leaky pipes as they are attracted to water. They also like to hide in the corners and backs of cupboards where food crumbs may accumulate. Clear out places that have clutter. Do a thorough cleaning of these areas so that
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you can eliminate their comfort zones and more successfully get rid of cockroaches. With that said, organic pest control is great for use in homes with children and pets, or for those who may be sensitive to toxic pesticides. If you want a natural alternative to commercial products that kill roaches, here are some generally known ways. Use a jar with a little bait of bread soaked in beer, coffee grounds, or water in it. The cockroaches will be attracted to it, fall
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in and will not be able to come out. To repel cockroaches put bay leaves, garlic, or cucumber slices in areas where the roaches settle. You can also soak pieces of cloth in eucalyptus oil and put them in the corners of cupboards. Until the cockroaches start dying off you can use a mixture of soap and water in a spray bottle to directly spray them with. This will kill the cockroach quickly. If you just want to keep the roaches away, but are not too excited about picking up dead,
crusty cockroaches then sprinkle dried bay leaves, cucumber slices, or garlic power in corners or behind baseboards. Roaches like rotting food, so these gourmet spices don't appeal to them and might actually send them packing. A more stringent method of organic pest control for cockroaches is to use a mixture of boric acid, flour and cocoa (in a 1:2:1 ratio) and lightly dust it in corners and along the sides of cupboards. If you have pets or children you may want to just use the dust on the tops of cupboards as this mixture may pose a danger to them. Hopefully, after you've tried these remedies, you will be free and rid of cockroaches. If somehow you still have the infestation, or you would prefer not to go through all the trouble of cleaning and using these methods, then you can always opt for a natural cockroach trap.
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Cash Flow Management Tips
ash Flow management is one of the most important skills for a business. Companies, especially young enterprises and small businesses need to stay on top of their cash flow game or they will likely end up in serious debt and unable to function. Here are some cash flow management measures to undertake. Prompt Invoicing If you want to keep that money coming in on time, it is essential that you do what is necessary to facilitate it. Generally, customers will pay quicker if they receive invoices quicker. It is surprising how many businesses get behind on their invoicing. Make time each week to create and send your invoices, and place emphasis on keeping all the information that you need to hand. This ensures you treat all customers fairly and helps you to query overdue invoices sooner. Companies are now making the way they deal with invoicing standard policy to ensure every8
one has buy-in and will do what is necessary to ensure prompt collection. It is prudent to operate a system of reminders that gradually become more serious and formal as invoices become more and more overdue. Simplicity is Key People will have a harder time paying if the means by which they can pay are limited. Therefore, where possible, offer a range of payment methods so your customers can choose how they want to pay you. In modern times bank transfers have proven to be the preferred method. However, you would be remiss to forget the basics. Cash, cheques, debit and credit card payments and even money transfer services should be available. Do all in your power to ensure a clear ‘due by’ date. Create Strict Credit Terms Anyone involved in business for any period of time would be familiar with the slow-paying customer. These are the ones to
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be particularly careful of. Some may ask for extensions to pay, but extending credit to slowpaying customers can lead to cash flow challenges. Instead, negotiate new terms with existing customers who have been slow to pay, and set stricter terms for new ones. Most important of all, remember to always check credit reports before extending credit. Your ‘gut’ feeling should not be ignored when making credit decisions, but reports should take precedence. Wherever it is appropriate, ask for deposits or partial payment in advance so you have the cash on hand to buy materials or inventory.
Set Targets Preparing and maintaining a cash flow forecast is one way of controlling cash flow. This can be updated weekly, to provide an accurate outlook for the next six months to a year. A large part of management is paying attention and it is easier to pay attention to something when it is an actual priority. Setting targets for the credit controllers is an excellent way to ensure it is given the attention necessary and provides a level of satisfaction and ownership to hit and beat these. Build a cash buffer When all else fails, you still have to have a buffer. Work out your average outgoings for one month. Consider this amount to be the minimum level of cash you need in the bank at any one time and make yourself believe you can never let your bank balance go below this amount. When your clients all decide to pay you late it may mean the difference between your business surviving or failing.
ELEGANT IDEAS
Sleep In Style
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ELEGANT IDEAS
A cool canopy bed with real foliage accents for the nature lover
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ELEGANT IDEAS
This luxurious classic style bedroom speaks to those who enjoy a softer experience
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ELEGANT IDEAS
This beach-themed bedroom is perfect for that vacation home kids room 14
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ELEGANT IDEAS
Antique lighting accessories complement this old fashioned bedroom
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KITCHEN
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8 Ways To Make Your Kitchen Appear Bigger
small kitchen space can create many challenges, but it does not have to necessarily be a claustrophobic room. In this article we will look at 10 tips to make your kitchen appear bigger. Follow these tips and in no time at all, your cramped, dull kitchen will take on new life and become another inviting room in your home. Make your kitchen appear bigger by letting in light Something as simple as letting in light can really open up your small kitchen. Don't cover your kitchen window with heavy curtains or window treatments. Instead, install a light colored shade that won't darken the room, but will still ensure privacy. Make your kitchen appear bigger with the right flooring A light colored flooring will help open up your small kitchen, 16
even if it's a light wood tone. If you will be using ceramic tile in your kitchen, be sure to match the grout with the tiles. This will help enlarge the space, and eliminate the lines created by contrasting grout color. Make your kitchen appear bigger with the proper cabinet color Again, by using a light cabinet color, you can help open up your small kitchen. Dark = Small. Keep it light and you'll notice a considerable difference in the way your kitchen looks. By installing a few glass doors on your cabinets, you can open up the room even more. Make your kitchen appear bigger by not overwhelming the room with pattern Here is one of the easiest kitchen decorating tips you can get Don't overwhelm the room with pattern. Small rooms don't re-
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spond well to big, bold patterns. Wallpaper is not usually recommended for a small kitchen, but if you will be using it, go with a small subtle print. In addition, keep bold prints off of kitchen towels, rugs, and so on, as it will make the room appear crowded and small. Make your kitchen appear bigger with reflective appliances Reflective appliances, such as stainless steel, will really help open up your small kitchen. Acting as mirrors, reflective appliances will give the illusion of a larger space.
tertops, place spices in drawers, and keep cooking and serving utensils out of sight. Open up the space on your countertops, and you'll notice that the whole room will appear larger. Make your kitchen appear bigger with a light color palette To help open up your small kitchen, use a light color on the walls. Light does not necessarily mean white! Cool colors work especially well in small rooms, as they tend to give the illusion that they are receding into the walls. An example of a cool color would be light blue, pale green, or delicate lavender.
Make your kitchen appear bigger by avoiding clutter Clutter can make even the largest room appear small and cramped. Get rid of the clutter, and get the most from your kitchen space. Remove sugar and flour containers from coun-
Make your kitchen appear bigger by keeping it simple Simplicity is the key to decorating in small spaces. Think sleek lines, simple dĂŠcor, and light even tones. If you don't need it, and won't use it, keep it out of the kitchen.
RECIPES
Banging Mother’s Day Brunch
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other’s Day is upon us and what better way to celebrate it than with delightful brunch options you can enjoy with your queen? Try these recipes and build the bond with momma.
BANANA SOUR CREAM BREAD Ingredients 1/4 cup white sugar 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 3/4 cup butter 3 cups white sugar 3 eggs 6 very ripe bananas, mashed 1 (16 ounce) container sour cream 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon salt 3 teaspoons baking soda 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional) Directions Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C). Grease four 7x3 inch loaf pans. In a small bowl, stir together 1/4 cup white sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Dust pans lightly with cinnamon and sugar mixture. In a large bowl, cream butter and 3 cups sugar. Mix in eggs, mashed bananas, sour cream, vanilla and cinnamon. Mix in salt, baking soda and flour. Stir in nuts. Divide into prepared pans. Bake for 1 hour, until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. 18
BREAKFAST SAUSAGE CASSEROLE Ingredients 1 pound ground pork sausage 1 teaspoon mustard powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 4 eggs, beaten 2 cups milk 6 slices white bread, toasted and cut into cubes 8 ounces mild Cheddar cheese, shredded Directions Crumble sausage into a medium skillet. Cook over medium heat until evenly brown; drain. In a medium bowl, mix together mustard powder, salt, eggs and milk. Add the sausage, bread cubes, and cheese, and stir to coat evenly. Pour into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover, and chill in the refrigerator for 8 hours, or overnight. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Cover, and bake 45 to 60 minutes. Uncover, and reduce temperature to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until set.
WHOLE GRAIN WAFFLES Ingredients 2 eggs, beaten 1 3/4 cups skim milk 1/4 cup canola oil 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup whole wheat pastry flour 1/2 cup flax seed meal 1/4 cup wheat germ 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 4 teaspoons baking powder
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1 tablespoon sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt Directions In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, oil, applesauce, and vanilla. Beat in whole wheat pastry flour, flax seed meal, wheat germ, all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt until batter is smooth. Preheat a waffle iron, and coat with cooking spray. Pour batter into waffle iron in batches, and cook until crisp and golden brown.
CRAB QUICHE Ingredients 1/2 cup mayonnaise 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 2 eggs, beaten 1/2 cup milk 1 cup crab meat 1 cup diced Swiss cheese 1/2 cup chopped green onions 1 (9 inch) unbaked pie crust Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). In a medium bowl, beat together eggs, mayonnaise, flour, and milk until thoroughly blended. Stir in crab, cheese, and onion. Spread into pie shell. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
ALMOND BERRY SMOOTHIE Ingredients 1 cup frozen blueberries 1 banana
1/2 cup almond milk 1 tablespoon almond butter water as needed Directions Combine blueberries, banana, almond milk, and almond butter in a blender; blend until smooth, adding water for a thinner smoothie.
CHICKEN AND EGG HASH Ingredients 4 bacon strips, diced 1 medium onion, chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - cubed 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed 1/2 cup frozen corn, thawed 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley 3/4 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon pepper 4 eggs Directions In a skillet, cook bacon until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain. In the drippings, saute onion and garlic until tender Stir in the chicken, potatoes and oil. Cover and cook for 10 minutes or until the potatoes and chicken are tender, stirring once. Stir in peas, corn, parsley, salt and pepper. Make four wells in the hash; bread an egg into each well. Cover and cook over low heat for 8-10 minutes or until eggs are completely set. Sprinkle with bacon.
BRIDAL
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Appraise And Insure Your Diamond Engagement Ring
n engagement ring is a big investment both financially and emotionally. With that said, one should do what is necessary to secure this investment for all parties involved. The way to go about this is by having the ring appraised and then insured. Both these steps are extremely crucial as you can sell the ring in future at right price and you can recover the price in case you have lost the ring. Generally, diamond engagement rings are very costly and an average earner has to bear a huge amount of money that may be equivalent to three months’ salary and more. Such a heavy investment must be first secured by appraising and insuring the ring. The appraisal allows you to have a true price of the ring you are purchasing. The insurance allows you to claim the money back if the ring is lost or its diamond falls out and is not trace20
able. But the appraisal should be done by a competent professional in the field and must be handling property related deals. While searching for the appraisal professionals for your engagement ring, know that the appraiser may be employed by the jewelry store and may be performing for the customers of the store or for outside customers. But ensure that the appraisal is for true market value of the ring and not the price you paid for the ring in the store. This is
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because the store may give you a discount that will not be the true price of the ring. Also avoid an appraisal that puts your ring price higher than its actual market value as this practice is unethical. Moreover, you will be at loss when insuring the ring. This is because you will be paying much higher for the insurance based on the high market value of the ring in the appraisal certificate. So, if the ring has been overpriced, ask the reason for it. As far as the insurance is concerned, know that most of the insurance is done for retail replacement value, meaning that the insurance company will replace the ring in kind and quality. Clearly, the insurance company is not going to pay in cash. In the case you have lost the engagement ring, the insurance company is likely to pay you an amount that is equal to the ring that they can offer you by replacing it through their
own sources, if you insist on getting the cash. Many of the jewelry insurance companies do not. However, ask for appraisal from an independent professional and they can employ their own appraiser for the purpose. The aim behind this is to get all the details of the ring and diamond. The insurance company aims at finding out accurate and complete description of the diamond and its current market price. It would be better if your ring appraisal has mentioned any diamond grading report. An insurance company will take the decision of insuring the ring only when it comes with the detailed description in the appraisal certificate. Another source for insurance is the homeowner’s policies that cover the jewelry. Ask your agent about the requirements of such insurance. Find out as much as possible regarding the insurance before you settle for your engagement ring.
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Tips To Enhance Your Child’s Development
hild development is a mixture of both the factors of nature and nurture. They are socialized by those closest to them and no one is going to be closer to your child during their early stages than you the parent. If you want to give your child the right start in life, it is important to put in the requisite work. Here are some things that you can do to help your child develop. Show your child that you care about him and that you are dependable Children who feel loved are more likely to be confident. Your child must believe that no matter what, someone will look out for him. Give your baby or toddler plenty of attention, encouragement, hugs and lap time. Set a good example Children imitate what they see others do and what they hear others say. When you exercise 22
truck from the stairs so no one falls over it"--not, "Move it because I said so."
and eat nourishing food, your child is more likely to do so as well. When you treat others with respect, your child probably will, too. If you share things with others, your child also will learn to be thoughtful of others' feelings. Provide opportunities for repetition It takes practice for a child to crawl, pronounce new words or drink from a cup. Your child doesn't get bored when he/ she repeats things. Instead, by repeating things until he/she learns them, your child builds
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the confidence needed to try new things. Use appropriate discipline All children need to have limits set for them. Children whose parents give them firm, but loving discipline generally develop better social skills and do better in school than do children whose parents set too few or too many limits. Direct your child's activities, but don't be too bossy Give reasons when you ask your child to do something. Say, for example, "Please move your
Listen to your children to find out how he feels and whether he needs special support Show love and respect when you are angry with your child. Criticize your child's behavior but not the child. Say for example, "I love you, but it's not okay for you to draw pictures on the walls. I get angry when you do that." Help your child make choices and work out problems You might ask your 4-year-old, for example, "What can we do to keep your brother from knocking over your blocks?" Be positive and encouraging. Praise your child for a job well done. Smiles and encouragement go much further to shape good behavior than harsh punishment.
WARDROBE
POWDER ROOM
Choosing Silver Jewelry
Sun Damage SOS Protect Your Hair Against It
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e in the Caribbean may not have all the glamour and glitz of the big cities, but one thing we have in much abundance, is sun. Ah the sun! Tourists from everywhere come to the Caribbean to enjoy the heat that we take for granted. However, overexposure to the sun can cause your hair to scream for relief from breakage, dryness and loss of colour. So before your hair revolts by falling off your head, here are some words of advice to get it shining in the sun instead of fading in the heat. Avoid the Sun Prevention is always better than cure. On an average day, try to minimize your hair’s exposure to the sun. How do you do that? Move your liming spot from the pavement to a covered area. Cover it up. I know that you could have figured this one out on your own, but indulge us. Covering your hair is a sure fire way to protect it from the sun. But the sun doesn’t only kiss the days that you’re on the beach. We don’t expect you to show up at the office in a beach hat, but there are lots of fashionable wigs and scarves that you can wear during your regular days that look
great and have the same effect as a hat. Use products with SPF UVA and UVB rays are the culprits responsible for frying your hair into dried strands of straw. In order to combat their effects, be sure that the hair products you use have an SPF agent that would act as a shield to protect your precious locks. A point to note is that you should choose one that is odour free. Switch your shampoo and conditioner Even if your hair isn’t dry, (yet) you should still pick a combination of hair products that moisturize. The sun has a way of sapping up your hair’s natural oils, so be sure to shampoo every other day and condition every time you wet your hair and on that note… Try a leave in conditioner.
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terling silver jewelry has been a popular commodity for thousands of years. Sterling silver is reasonably priced and nevertheless gives you much of the luster offered by metals like gold and platinum. If you are a fan of silver jewelry, this article is for you. The most common question that needs to be clarified is how to keep sterling silver thoroughly clean. Typically, it's enough to use a jewelry cloth (with two layers of cloths in various colors) that one could grab from your jewelry accessory store. Rubbing sterling silver by means of paper towels or other tough surfaces could quite possibly scratch the surface and destroy the glow. Silver-dip is another commonly used sterling silver jewelry cleaner, which can also be purchased via a jewelry store. All you have to do is leave your jewelry within the dip for around 30 seconds to a minute then rinse the item off using water. Ensure the silver jewelry is not plated along with any other metal prior to using the silverdip or the plating will be broken. It is crucial to store sterling silver jewelry properly anytime it is not worn. The jewelry should be placed where it is cool as well as far removed from sunshine. When you are not likely to wear sterling silver jewelry for a longer timeframe it is advisable to store it within an air tight plastic bag inside a drawer. Not like gold and platinum, pure silver is actually rather unstable and oxides rather quickly. w w w . a m g tt. c o m
Silver can be plated with many other precious metals to safeguard it from tarnishing. Nickel and rhodium are the most common plating options. Rhodium is definitely a superior quality finished look. It is more expensive than nickel and offers greater protection to the silver. Rhodium can also be used to plate white gold and platinum. Alternatively, some silver jewelry is not plated. Also, 'oxidized silver' jewelry is oxidized purposely to give a rich antique look and isn't plated with any kind of other metals. The purity of sterling silver identifies 92.5% of silver contained in the alloy. A laboratory can analyze the purity of the metal, in order to ensure it is genuine. Nevertheless, most of the sterling silver jewelry produced nowadays contains a “92.5” stamp to specify the authenticity of the jewelry. Engraving and resizing of sterling silver rings is rather straightforward due to the ductility and relatively low melting point. Having said that, be sure that your jeweler is aware of the procedure associated with refinishing the ring and that they possess the essential devices for this. Not all jewelers own the particular tools in order to recoat the rhodium plating upon cutting and welding the ring. Sometimes, the resizing process can't be applied to certain ring sets as this may cause the ring's gemstones to pop out. It is common among the channel and even invisible settings.
APRIL 2018
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MEDICINE CABINET
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Managing Migraines
any people around the world suffer from severe headaches. Unfortunately, many of these headaches are yet to get a perfect remedial measure. Still, a number of ways are found to be effective in relieving migraine pain. Here is your one stop guide to migraine headache relief. First of all, you need to completely change your lifestyle to attain complete freedom from this malady. In most of the cases, it happens to be almost impossible for people to bring about complete transformation in their lifestyle. So, in addition to lifestyle modification, a good number of natural care options are also available for you. In fact, these natural treatment options are proven to be far more effective than the synthetically prepared medications. These options are also cost effective. In certain cases, spinal complications have been linked to migraine pain. This pain would be effectively relieved through chiropractic practices if it is a pain originated from spine complication. So, chiropractic treatment is proved as an effective remedy to cure headache. The other medication-less course of treatment is biofeedback. This biofeedback is a very effective way to curb headache 24
HOME GYM
pain. The technique enables you to have certain influencing power over your involuntary functions. And primarily, it casts its impact on involuntary nervous functions. Excess salt intake is strongly connected with occurrence of migraine pain. It causes high blood pressure which has its repercussions on headache. So, strictly regulate salt content in food to lessen your trauma. There are certain food products that are considered as migraine triggers. If you consume these triggers in plenty, you are likely to get afflicted with headaches. These products are coffee, alcohol, beans, tobacco and cheese. So, in order to keep yourself free of the agony of migraine, try to minimize intake of these food products as much as possible. Another important factor that greatly contributes to migraine pain is stress. Hence, in order to reduce the chances of developing a migraine, you should know how to manage your stress well. Various stress reduction techniques help you overcome persistent migraines. I would specifically recommend Yoga as one of the effective stress busters. Even if you are not under stress, yoga could prove effective in curing migraines.
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Supplements To Help You Get Those Gains
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ne can find loads of diverse muscle constructing supplements available that all claim to give you the perfect muscle gains. Some can be extremely high-priced and some do not produce a great deal if any advantages to your muscle gains. This short article will reveal the leading 5 muscle creating supplements to take. Whey protein It can be the main supplement that everybody takes. It really is the highest source of protein you may put inside your body. Whey protein includes comprehensive protein as it has all the eight crucial amino acids. It includes branch chain amino acids which prevent muscle break down. Whey is good for boosting your general protein intake. It can be quickly chugged down in shakes between meals. You may then add healthy fats and carbohydrates to these shakes to further add to your all round calories. Creatine Creatine helps to raise your strength in the fitness center. It increases your muscle cell volume by escalating the quantity of water that’s stored within your muscles. It reduces general mental fatigue as well as the nasty lactic acid build up you get near the end of exercises – letting you get in extra reps for
much more muscle stimulation. It is going to also enhance your recovery amongst workouts, which means a lot more time for muscle development. After a month of using it, it is possible to see gains of 10-15lbs. Fish Oils Fish oils are a fantastic source of critical fatty acids. They significantly enhance your anabolic hormone levels, strengthen insulin action, improve energy production and enhance the burning of fat. Take a tablet or spoonful within the morning and just before bed, preferably with meals. Take some immediately after your workouts with your post workout meal or shake – this can further raise your testosterone levels. Multi-vitamins As you’ll be doing much more intensive exercising than the average individual, you’ll need more than the suggested everyday allowance of vitamins and minerals. The perfect solution to make certain that you are finding sufficient amounts would be to take a multi-vitamin supplement. Insufficiencies in your nutrient intake can have a major impact on the rate of your muscle gains. Taking a dayto-day multi vitamin will ensure all of your bodily processes run at optimum levels.
TRAVEL
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R The Keys To Summertime Travel
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hile we have the perfect holiday climate right at home, Trinbagonians usually do a lot of travelling during the JulyAugust period. Going to another hot destination during summer takes some proper planning and consideration in order to truly enjoy the trip. Here are some considerations. You may take a friend or family member’s car, rent or take the bus. Whatever you choose, you have to be sure that it is a reliable option. If borrowing a car, have it checked so you won't have problems on the way. If you're renting, do the same and if taking the bus, check the safety of the bus and its drivers. You may say these are "basics" but oftentimes, the "basics" are neglected. Better to be sure than spoil your summer trip. It’s summer and while you may be accustomed to the rays, you’ll still need to be protected from the sun. Don't ever forget to take your summer shades and sun block with you. It's very important. You wouldn't want to miss seeing how hot the beach can be or you wouldn't want to spoil Day 2 of your vacation because of sunburn. Choose a sun
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block that matches your skin. Some people are sensitive when it comes to cream applications on skin. Here's another thing to consider, the Beach. It has to be as gorgeous as you. It has to be as clean as you expect it to be. Trinidad does not have the best of beaches, but your summer destination may just have one or two great spots. Research the best water hang outs to cool off. It makes no sense going to another tropical location if the beach sucks. Another great tip is to make sure to spend less time on the road, and more time in action. While trips can be fun, traveling often brings out the worst in people (especially children). If you must travel, plan fun stops along the way. Research sites and activities and utilize them. People have a tendency to drink less water and pay less attention to health when on vacation. While travelling, it is very important for you to stay healthy. During summer holidays make sure you are supplied with enough water to avoid dehydration. Moreover, a properly hydrated body will also prevent you from getting motion sickness while travelling.
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Weather And Your Rabbit
abbits do well both indoors and outdoors, but they cannot handle certain weather extremes. If you rear rabbits or keep one as a pet, this article is for you. Hot Weather Rabbits do not handle hot weather well at all. To them, our average tropical temperature is hot. In order to prevent your rabbit from suffering in the heat, there are several things you can do. 1. Make sure it has fresh, cool water throughout the day. 2. Put water in plastic soda bottles and freeze them. Place one in the cage and the rabbit will lean against it to stay cool. 3. Make sure the rabbit's hutch or cage is fully shaded. 4. If you have the means, set up a mist system or a fan near your bunny's cage. Those things will generally keep your rabbit cool enough. However, be on the lookout for signs of heatstroke. These include heavy panting and wet mouths. Infertility is another side effect of heat is in regard to breeding rabbits. Bucks may go temporarily sterile, especially older bucks. Does may refuse to breed or loose litters. Cold Weather Rabbits usually handle cold weather a lot better than they do hot weather. As long as they are kept out of the wind and are
kept dry, they usually do fine. We do not have particularly cold weather in Trinidad and Tobago, but some nights (especially closer to Christmas time) can be a bit chilly with strong winds. Managing their wind interaction is important since drafts are one of the most common weatherrelated killers of rabbits. Sunlight Rabbits cannot handle direct sunlight for very long at all. Just a few minutes in full sunlight can kill them. It causes them to overheat rapidly. Make sure your rabbit always has a shaded area that it can get to. Rain A wet rabbit is a rabbit that is more prone to getting ill or dying, especially if there are drafts or there is cold weather. Keep your rabbit out of the rain, and make sure it does not get wet. If it does get wet, dry it off right away. A little water on the surface of the coat will not harm the rabbit, so long as it has not reached the under layer of fur called the "undercoat." If it has reached the undercoat, some serious drying will be needed. If that happens, also watch for signs of illness in the next few weeks.
GARAGE
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ven though a bicycle is relatively simple to operate, a cyclist still must exercise careful planning and defensive driving in order to assure a safe journey. Try these bicycle safety tips. When bicycling, do not wear wide-bottomed pants, flapping skirts, trailing scarves, or any other loose clothing that may catch in the wheel spokes or on the gear chain. Pants bottoms should be tucked into socks or secured with bicycle clips. Shoes should have low heels. During the daytime, bright-colored or fluorescent vests or belts can be worn over normal clothing. For cycling at night, when it is especially difficult for car drivers to see a cyclist, it is even more important to wear conspicuous clothing. Retroreflective material should be sewn onto clothing and retro-
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Bicycle Safety
reflectors should be mounted onto the bicycle. Otherwise, retro-reflective vests or belts can be worn over normal clothing. A lit light at the front of the bicycle is actually required by law for nighttime bicycling. It also doesn’t hurt to have a lit light at the back. Bicyclists should always wear a helmet to provide head protection in case they fall or
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are knocked down. It is especially important to provide infants or small children with the same protection when riding with an adult. Head-related injuries account for 75 percent of all bike fatalities. This is hardly ever enforced in Trinidad and Tobago, but in most places around the world it is mandatory. A cyclist should never carry a passenger on a bicycle built for one driver, except in the case of an adult with a small child in a seat directly behind the adult. Otherwise, one seat, one cyclist. Choosing a Bicycle When choosing a bicycle, pick one that you will be able to ride with comfort and confidence. When you are on the seat, the toes of both feet should be able to touch the ground without tilting the bicycle. The thigh, leg,
and heel of the foot on a pedal at its lowest should form a straight line as you ride along. The seat should be almost parallel to the ground. The handlebars should almost always be level with the seat. Keep the bicycle clean and well oiled, and make sure that there are no loose parts. Pay special attention to the brakes, tires, and lights. Regularly check the tightness and alignment of the wheels, handlebars, pedals, and chain. At all times, cyclists must give clear and positive hand signals when turning. Do not weave in and out of traffic or ride close to moving vehicles. Special care is needed at crosswalks, near parked cars and on uneven road surfaces. Once these considerations are taken into account, you should have a swell time with your bike.
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