LIFESTYLES INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE
healthy, happy, balanced summer life 20161
Did you know?
Shelley’s Trendy Finds!
Chicaboom!
High end consignment home décor, furniture and fashion. Yes, this is a fantastic one stop shop for the thrifty and trendy! Owner Tracy has captured a very cool market. We are all on a tight budget, yet want to look great and have lovely things. Here you go! Located at 110 Saunders Rd., Unit13, Barrie, Ontario.
Himalayan Sea Salt!
In every flavour and colour, can be found in your local specialty food shop and on shelves of franchised grocery stores. Healthier as it is unoxidized and in a purer form than regular table salt. Herbs are added to vary flavour. Pink is perhaps the more common of this type of sea salt.
Glitzy Birkies!
Not for your “diehard” traditional Birkenstock wearers perhaps, but come onjust for fun! You can do it. Hot colours, snakeskin and yes, even sequins can be seen adoring these lovelies this summer!
Canadian Tire
Indoor/outdoor “canvas” furniture line! The name representing a blank canvas decorating space. Great outdoor lanterns, pillows, indoor/ outdoor lighting, kitchen island stools and trendy patterned chairs for office and living spaces. Very nice, very hip and very Canadian!
Great Canadian
Superstore, Zehrs, Loblaws, all carrying a large selection of alcohol-free mocktails, beers and wines! Everything from Beck’s beer to margaritas to mojitos, to red and white Carl Jung wines! Even a delicious chilled sparkling. So enjoy the summer heat without the haze! Cheers!
Everything Maple!
Have you had a delicious maple cappuccino or a summer dessert drizzled with that wonderfully delicious sticky, sweet syrup? Even over vanilla ice-cream. Enjoy!
Coleman Spas!
Yes, the camping equipment company has a cool plug and play hot tub. Easily holds four adults. Perfect for the cottage or the people wanting to try a backyard spa without breaking the bank! From $750.00 to 999.00. Oh, and of course, it comes in Coleman green!
Water Features!
Water fountains, water walls, water globes for the garden or indoor elegance! Reasonably priced and the sound of the waterfall is so tranquil and relaxing! Some are even solar. For a Zen moment visit Lowes, Home Hardware and Home Depot, all have a good selection.
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contents summer 2016
In this Issue 4 8 9 10 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
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| Vol 5 No 2
Shelley’s Trendy Finds Women’s Health Screenings Help Kids Get Into Golf The True Canadian Floor Show Your Home Like A Pro Saving As A Single Parent Eliminate High Utility Bills Squeeze In Physical Activity Exercise At Home Prolong Hair Colour Improve Cosmetic Skills Sustainable Clothing Eco-friendly Office Check Engine Light Make Your Vehicle Eco-friendly Ten Environmental Facts Make This Summer Beverage
LSM-lifestylesmagazine.ca is published six times a year by YouLink Inc. Contact us at info@ lifestylesmagazine.ca and visit us at www.lifetylesmagazine.ca. All rights reserved. Letters to the editor are invited. Please send letters to info@lifestylesmagazine. ca. Reproductions of any article, photograph or artwork without specific written permission of the publisher is strictly forbidden. The information contained in lifestylesmagazine.ca may not be published, broadcast or otherwise distributed without prior wrtten permission. The publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material. The options expressed in lifestylesmagazine.ca are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the publisher or advertisers. YouLink Inc., 3-200 Memorial Avenue, Suite 104, Orillia ON. L3V 5X6
“
Ireland’s
crown
jewel Homemade
summer sorbet
25 A multifunctional
backyard
Summer cheers!
Contacts
6 R. Brock Weir Publisher/Editor brock@lifestylesmagazine.ca 705 330 2262
Shelley Weir Associate Publisher shelley@lifestylesmagazine.ca 705 330 1026
Linda Laforge Production | Creative | Design linda@lifestylesmagazine.ca 705 728 6218
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The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.
Marcel Proust
6 healthy, happy, balanced life
How to create a multifunctional backyard
LIFESTYLES INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE
L
et’s face it, when the warmer weather hits, our backyard becomes a ‘one-size-fits-all’ for the entire family. It’s no longer a chunk of grass, it’s an extension of your home that wears many hats, an outdoor dining room to host friends, a playroom for your kids or simply or a backyard workshop (if you’re anything like me!) And while we may retreat into hibernation during the harsh winters, once spring arrives there’s an urge to spend every possible moment in the outdoors while we can. So why not create a space that we can use for any occasion? Here are three tips to create the ultimate multi-functional backyard retreat that will help you save pennies and space!
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1 Stick to one surface material
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying your backyard should look boring! Far from it. However, if your yard has multifunctional spaces, using one material will help create a cohesive aesthetic. This can be especially helpful if you’re dealing with a small yard, as a as a single colour can create the illusion of a bigger space. Plus, creating a unified surface gives you a blank canvas to play with, and allows you change up the look of your backyard at a moment’s notice. Instead, get creative with your backyard accessories, incorporating items such as upcycled furniture to add a personal touch. If you’re sticking with one building material, I’m a big fan of MicroPro Sienna (pictured) as the wood of choice for outdoor projects. It’s a pressure treated wood that is environmentallyfriendly and certified low VOC that comes readyto-build in a beautiful brown tone, without initial staining. Plus, Sienna can be used above or below ground and in fresh water, giving you that versatility to use it on a variety of projects. It’s great for big projects like decks or docks, it’s also a great option for fun side projects like raised planters or even children’s play sets. Whatever’s on your DIY bucket list this season, don’t be afraid to think a little ‘outside the (wooden) box’!
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yourself! Luckily, my DIY go-to is the perfect addition to your yard - a multi-function raised planter box that can be used in 3 ways; a planter, bench and storage box! The beauty of this DIY piece is that it allows you to easily switch up its utility based on your mood or activity. With yards getting smaller, planters are increasingly becoming the go-to alternative for gardening enthusiasts short on space. Instead of taking up unnecessary space, this planter easily transforms into a bench, giving you additional seating for outdoor entertaining. Your guests will thank you! I’m also a huge fan of hidden storage. While yards were made to get messy, too much clutter can take away from the natural setting! If you’re hosting a last minute barbecue for friends, an outdoor storage box allows you to stash those toys or gardening tools at a moment’s notice. Plus, it’s a great place to keep blankets for those cooler summer evenings spent lounging on the deck.
Invest in simple pieces
3
You wouldn’t skimp on a bed or dining room table inside your house, so don’t pinch the pennies for those important purchases for you yard either! Just like a good quality couch, certain staple pieces can anchor your outdoor space while creating a multitude of possibilities at the same time. I can’t stress this enough - simplicity is key when selecting those anchor items. Invest Choose outdoor in a harvest table, for example, and you’ll furniture with versatility automatically inject some versatility. Its look Multi-purpose outdoor furniture is not only fun can be elevated to a host formal dinner party to experiment with; it maximizes your space. I’m with a nice table runner and some quality a big advocate for getting the most function out dishware or used as a buffet table serving up of every piece– especially those you can make veggies platters and mini-burgers for your child’s
birthday party. Moving from dining to lounging, a good outdoor living room set can go far, especially with the increasingly popular “chat and chill” model of furniture. You can get the best bang from your buck by investing in furniture with a variety of configurations - comfy lounge chairs and sectional pieces that can be grouped with ottomans, coffee tables or side tables or separated off into intimate vignettes. . Ultimately, your backyard is the most coveted ‘room’ of your house once the warm weather hits – don’t let the space go to waste! Invest in simple anchor pieces and materials that can be complimented by multifunctional items and clever use of accessories. This will help boost the functionality of your outdoor space and open up its potential year after year. Often billed as Canada’s favourite handyman, Chris Palmer has quickly become a household name through his thoughtful and creative DIYs. With a strong focus on handcrafted woodwork, Chris has turned his passion into a career – creating custom projects through his company “Handcrafted by Chris Palmer”. He made his national debut on the hit HGTV show Canada’s Handyman Challenge, and is now a regular guest expert on the Global Morning Show in Toronto. You can check him out at www.handcraftedbychrispalmer.com.
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LIFESTYLES INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE
Important women’s health screenings
R
outine medical screenings are an essential element of a healthy lifestyle. Many health screenings are recommended for both men and women, but women also should include some genderspecific testing in their health routines. “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” That popular adage can be applied to personal health, particularly with respect to women’s health screenings.
Cervical cancer Breast cancer
Doctors advise that women should receive pelvic exams beginning at age 21, or earlier for women who are sexually active. Pap smears are screenings that help detect the presence of cancerous cells on and around the cervix that may be indicative of cervical cancer. Guidelines continually change regarding the frequency of Pap smear testing, but the general consensus is women age 30 and older may need screening every three years if they have not had any abnormal tests in the past, according to Everyday Health. Women should speak with their gynecologists regarding how frequently they should be tested for cervical cancer.
Both men and women can get breast cancer, but women are at a far greater risk than men. According to Breastcancer.org, roughly one in eight women in the United States will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime. The Canadian Cancer Society says breast cancer is the second leading cause of death from cancer in Canadian women. The earlier a woman finds breast cancer, the better her chance for survival. Cancers caught early are less likely to spread to the lymph nodes and vital organs than cancers caught at later stages. Recommendations on mammogram screening start time and frequency vary with Bone density test age and risk factor, so women should discuss Osteoporosis, a weakening of bones that and develop an individualized plan with their causes them to become more fragile, may initially be symptom-free. Osteoporosis is doctors.
often discovered only after a fracture. The National Osteoporosis Foundation says that estrogen decreases during menopause can cause bone loss, which is why women have a higher risk of developing osteoporosis than men. In addition to healthy living habits, bone mineral density tests beginning at age 65 or earlier can help identify problems early on. Certain risk factors may require women to begin receiving bone density tests before age 65.
Skin cancer screening
A report from the National Cancer Institute appearing in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology revealed startling melanoma trends among young women. This deadly skin cancer is rising in incidence. Screening for changes in skin markings can help identify melanoma and other non-melanoma cancers early on. Skin should be checked by a dermatologist or a general health professional during regular physicals. Guidelines recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, a group of experts in disease prevention, also recommend these screenings for women: blood pressure, cholesterol, colorectal cancer, and diabetes. Proper care and early identification of illness risk factors can keep women on the road to good health.
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How to help kids get into golf
G
olf is a game of skill that can take years, if not decades, to master. Many golfers find their time on the golf course both rewarding and relaxing, even on those days when the fairways seem impossible to find. Though many players never swing a golf club until they reach adulthood, it’s never too early to hit the links. Some of the world’s most accomplished golfers, including four-time Masters champion Tiger Woods, began playing as toddlers, and many feel that getting an early start can lead to a more successful game down the road. Getting kids into golf is a great way for parents to bond with their children while enjoying the great outdoors. Golf can also be used to teach kids humility, sportsmanship and the importance encourage them through their struggles and of hard work. Thanks to the often frustrating reassure them that you faced the same obstacles nature of golf, parents may find it somewhat when you started playing. challenging to instill a love of the game in their youngsters. But there are ways to introduce kids to this wonderful game that kids might just play Hire an instructor with for the rest of their lives.
Focus on having fun
Few, if any, golfers at your local golf course on a given weekend could say with certainty that golf has never frustrated them. The challenge of golf may be its most appealing characteristic to older players, but young kids can be easily overwhelmed by the challenges golf presents. By focusing on having fun instead of perfecting techniques, parents can get kids to look forward to their time on the links. The more fun kids have, the more likely they will be to embrace the game and its many challenges. Don’t put pressure on youngsters as they develop their games, but
Purchase the correct equipment
Even the best golfers are bound to struggle when using the wrong equipment. While it might be unwise to invest in especially expensive equipment for youngsters likely to grow out of it in a few months’ time, deals can be found on used kids’ equipment. Used kids’ equipment is typically subjected to less wear and tear than experience teaching used equipment for adults, as kids tend to play less often and fewer holes than adults when they children Instructors with experience teaching children do play. But make sure to find correctly sized will understand the basics of the game and how equipment that kids feel comfortable using. learning those basics provides a great foundation for future enjoyment and success on the course. Play some holes Instructors who have taught kids in the past also Instructors may teach kids the differences between know that teaching youngsters the finer points of the types of clubs and how to swing and putt. But golf requires patience and encouragement. Ask a golf is most fun when players are out on the links fellow parent or an employee at the club where going from hole to hole. Instruction is important, you play to recommend an instructor for your but don’t forget to play a few holes with your child. And take advantage of any kids’ courses child each week as well. your club offers. Golf is a challenging game, but it’s one that can be enjoyed by athletes of all ages.
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The True Canadian Floor
LIFESTYLES INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE
healthy, happy, balanced life 11
H
ardwood has been a favourite flooring choice for Canadian homes for centuries due to its natural warmth and durability. Hardwood flooring has evolved over the years to become dimensionally stable with finishes that are extremely durable. Traditional 2 1/4” and 3 1/4” strip flooring is no longer the most sought after style. Long, wide planks, in unique finishes and surface textures are now in the main stream. Hand scraped, wire brushed and distressed finishes offer individual character to a home. These new flooring styles work well in both timeless homes, or in contemporary interiors.
Moisture Content
Solid hardwood planks expand or contract in size due to changes in moisture content. From season to season, cupping and gapping can occur in Canada’s varying indoor humidity conditions. Cupping and gapping is more pronounced in solid wide plank solid wood flooring compared to solid strip flooring. For this reason, solid wood flooring wider than 4 inches is not recommended in our extreme Canadian indoor climate. Today’s home owners prefer the look of five inch and wider hardwood flooring. Since wide plank solid wood flooring is considerably higher in cost than traditional 2 1/4” and 3 1/4” solid strip flooring, and more prone to cupping and gapping we needed to find a solution. So how do you get the wide plank look you want without high cost and extra worry? The answer is engineered hardwood!
Why Engineered Hardwood?
Engineered hardwood is the next generation in wood flooring. It has many advantages over regular wood flooring due to its superior construction, making it more stable and trouble free. Engineered floors are made by adhering a solid hardwood decorative face layer to a sturdy multi-layered plywood core. This makes for a much more stable and durable floor compared to regular solid hardwood. Laurentian engineered hardwood’s construction is specifically made for our unique and variable Canadian climate. Varying humidity levels and extreme temperature change from season to season can warp, crack and distort solid hardwoods. Laurentian engineered construction will withstand these conditions and maintain its beauty and form year after year. you use. Rich grained and exotic decors such as Brazilian Cherry, American Walnut and European Engineered hardwood is also a better value. Since White Oak are much more affordable than the only the face layer is made using the expensive same looks in a solid hardwood. The multi-ply decorative wood species, you only pay for what construction also makes engineered hardwood the
Better Value
greener choice. Compared to solid wood floors, engineered floors yield more than five times more square feet of flooring per tree harvested. The plywood core is made of rapidly renewable wood grown on tree plantations.
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LIFESTYLES INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE and aggressive machine sanding. If the floor is not perfectly flat, the sanding process will reduce or remove bevels unevenly, leaving an inconsistent look. Additionally, no sand and finish technician can duplicate the same high quality and durability of the original factory finish. So it is not critical to home owners that engineered hardwood has a 1 mm, 2 mm or 3mm thick face veneer, because hardwood floors today are seldom, if ever, sanded down to raw wood.
Refinishing?
But what about refinishing? Contrary to what many consumers believe, sanding to raw wood and refinishing your hardwood floor is not commonly done, and more importantly, it is highly discouraged as it voids the manufacturer’s warranty. In Canada, the average cost of sanding and refinishing a hardwood floor is around five dollars per square foot! That’s the better portion of the cost of a brand new floor. The original factory finish is very strong and should not be removed. A fresh layer of urethane can be top coated on the original finish to make your floor look new again without a complete sanding. This is a relatively simple process, and does not void the wear warranty. Refinishing the floor by sanding down to the raw wood requires heavy
More Benefits
Another key benefit of engineered hardwood is multiple installation options, so you can have the warmth and beauty of hardwood in more areas of your home. Because ply-core construction is more stable than solid wood, engineered hardwood can be installed in areas that solid hardwood can’t, such as in basements or over radiant heated subfloors. Engineered floors also offer a wider range of installation methods. All Laurentian engineered floors allow the use of glue, float, nail or staple installation methods. See us to discuss your hardwood needs and to understand the installation option that is right for you. Laurentian hardwood products available at www.SunshineCarpet.ca
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LIFESTYLES INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE
Showing Your Home BETTER Than A Pro
O
ne of the greatest things about selling your home privately is showing it yourself. All big purchases are made on emotion and that holds true when people are buying a home. We buy with our hearts and then buy with our head. First and foremost, when choosing a neighbourhood and a home, lifestyle is usually at the top of the list. You already know your home and your neighbourhood better than anyone else, so why would you want to pay someone when you are the best person for the job? Here are some tips to teach you how to show your home.
Make A Highlight List
You know everything about your property and a lot about your neighbourhood. Making a highlight list ensures you don’t forget anything and keeps you on track during showings. When people are buying a home there are often four things that are most important to them: location; age; size and special features. Make sure your highlights include the best features of each.
Prepare Your House For A Showing
Give yourself time to walk through your house and do any last minute things before your prospective buyers arrive. Open all the blinds, turn on all the lights, make the beds, straighten up the washroom (including putting down the toilet seat), store personal items, put away small valuables, make sure there is parking and a clear path to the door, adjust the temperature to a comfortable level and put on some soft music in the background.
Greet Buyers With A Smile
• Most tours finish on the main level family room, great room or kitchen. Before you open the door take a second and smile. • Make sure to always finish in the most You are about to show the future owners their appealing area of your house – maybe it’s new home for the first time. You get one shot at the deck with the incredible view! a first impression. You’ve put a lot of care into your property so take the time to showcase your Give your prospective buyers a brochure of the property and then let them have a look around time and effort. on their own. This will give them a chance to discuss things amongst themselves and then ask Show The Outside First any questions they may have. Your prospective buyers already have their shoes on, so what better place to start than a tour to show the lay of the land and talk about the surrounding The Offer Most importantly, you need to lay out the next neighbourhood. steps in the process. You want to get an offer on your home, so it is imperative that potential Ask Questions buyers know how to make you an offer. If you If you ask someone what they are looking for in a are using a professional marketing company house they will almost always tell you. It is easier like PropertyGuys.com, everything a buyer will to show the prospective buyers exact features need is laid out in a take-away magazine. This they are looking for in a home if you know what includes information on the home, frequently is important to them. Talking about what they asked questions, a glossary of real estate terms and are looking for also helps to develop a rapport. much more to help you guide the buyer through We all like doing business with people we trust. the steps to make an offer. Give them a preview of what is to come but Make sure you have your contact information. start with the less desirable areas. It is true that If you didn’t have it before, get the buyer’s contact you have 30 seconds to make someone’s short information so you can follow up after a couple list when seeing a home, but you want the grand of days to see if maybe they have some further finale to be the main feature. questions. Worst case, they are not interested • Generally, I suggest starting with the basement in your property but are willing to provide you (unless your basement is THE show stopper). some honest feedback that will help you with This way you get that out of the way first. your next showing. You are the professional when it comes to your • Usually it is better to finish the tour above home. After all, who knows it better than you? grade. • After the basement move on to the second Follow these easy tips and you will be on your way to showing your home better than any pro level (if your home has one). • When showing the bedrooms, start with the and selling your home privately. master bedroom first.
Jason Schlegel, PropertyGuys.com
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Saving as a single parent
S
aving money can be hard for any parent, but especially so for parents who are raising their children in single-parent households. Single parents face hurdles that parents in dualparent households may not encounter, and many of those hurdles involve finances. Worrying about savings can have a negative effect on single parents. In the 2014 “LoveFamilyMoney” survey commissioned by the financial services provider Allianz, 76 per cent of single parents said preparing for both retirement and their child’s college expenses causes them a great deal/some stress. That is in spite of 41 percent of single-parent families reporting that they had excellent or above average knowledge of financial planning. Those figures highlight the struggle even the most financially savvy single parents face when trying to save money, much less the dilemma faced by single parents who are not as knowledgeable about money management. Finding room for savings can be tough for single parents already working with limited budgets, but single parents who want to start saving more may find that some simple strategies can help them grow their savings and build more solid foundations for their futures and their children’s futures.
Find ways to scale back Just because you might have grown accustomed to something does not mean you cannot live without it. Scaling back on luxury expenditures like cable or satellite television and smartphone data plans can save you a substantial amount of money each month. Cut the cord with costly cable or satellite plans in favor of more affordable streaming services. If that’s too great a sacrifice,
sponsored retirement account, then enroll in one if your employer has made that option available. Such contributions are typically pre-tax (you will pay tax on the money down the road when you begin to withdraw it), meaning they won’t affect your take-home pay too significantly. In addition, enrolling in such a program can help downsize your television package to something relieve any stress you may have about financing more basic and much less expensive. Rather than your retirement. purchasing an unlimited data plan from your mobile phone provider, choose a less costly plan that limits your data access. You may discover Make your own meals that adjusting to less data makes you less reliant Single parents juggling a career with their dual on your smartphone, which might end up being roles as mom and dad may be too exhausted to a blessing in disguise. take on dinner duties at the end of each weekday. But making your own meals rather than going Set up automatic contributions out or ordering in can save substantial amounts Setting up automatic contributions to a savings of money that can then be directed to college or account is a great way to guarantee you make retirement savings accounts. If necessary, use monthly deposits. Direct a portion of your a slow cooker to prepare meals in the morning paycheck into a savings account rather than direct so everything is ready when you arrive home at depositing it entirely into your checking account. night. Or map out meals for the week on weekends You may be surprised at how quickly you adjust and prepare as many as possible on Saturday or to having less money in your checking account. Sunday so all you need to do is reheat them when arriving home at night. Single parents struggling to save money may Enroll in an employerfind that the simplest solutions are also the most sponsored retirement program effective. If you are not already contributing to an employer-
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LIFESTYLES INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE
Say ‘so long’ to high utility bills
Monitor your meter
If you are taking steps to reduce energy consumption but your utility bills are staying the same or even increasing, start monitoring your energy meter. Meter readers are not immune to mistakes, and the readings may be incorrect. Jot down the energy consumption figures reflected on your meter, and compare those figures to those on your utility bill, reporting any discrepancies to your utility company.
U
tility bills are among the largest expenses homeowners have each month. Trimming utility bills can not only benefit homeowners’ bottom lines, but also be prove beneficial for the environment. Unnecessary energy consumption can drive up utility bills, costing homeowners substantial amounts of money every year. Fortunately, homeowners can take several steps to reduce unnecessary energy consumption, saving themselves money and helping the planet along the way.
Conduct nightly energy audits
Before going to bed at night, homeowners can spend a few minutes walking around their homes making sure all devices, appliances and lights are tuned off. Devices left on when not in use may not consume significant amounts of energy on their own, but when many are left on, the resulting energy consumption can be considerable. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that unplugging cable boxes each night can save homeowners nearly $20 per box over the course of a year. Unplugging additional appliances each night when not in use can add to those savings while reducing excessive energy consumption.
Lower the temperature on your water heater
Many homeowners wish their utility bills were lower. Thankfully, homeowners can take steps to cut their energy bills and save them money Water heaters make it possible to take hot showers while helping the environment at the same time. each morning, but when used improperly, such heaters can be very wasteful. Water heaters set at 120 F will not affect the quality of your daily showers and can help prevent scalding. But water heaters may be set at 140 F by manufacturers, and that can waste energy and pose a scalding hazard. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the cost of bringing fresh water up to 140 F can cost homeowners as much as $400 per year. Setting water heaters to 120 F and lowering that temperature when going on vacation can save homeowners money and reduce the standby heat losses necessary to keep water at 140 F or higher.
Clean filters more frequently
It’s easy to forget about filters on heating and air conditioning systems. But forgotten filters could be costing homeowners significant amounts of money. When neglected, HVAC filters accumulate dirt and dust, making systems work much less efficiently than they do when filters are clean. Clean filters once per month to make sure you aren’t wasting money and energy when heating and cooling your home.
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How new parents can squeeze in physical activity
N
ew parents face a host of challenges upon bringing their bundles of joy home for the first time. One of those challenges is altering their lifestyles so they can more capably tend to their child’s needs. Though expecting parents no doubt anticipate changing their lifestyles to accommodate their growing families, few may know the specifics of how their lifestyles will change. Though each couple is different, many couples see their exercise habits change dramatically upon the birth of their child. A 2011 study from researchers at the University of Minnesota found that both mothers and fathers had lower amounts of physical activity compared with nonparents. Mothers who participated in the study reported engaging in 2.36 hours of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, or MVPA, per week, while women without children reported engaging in 3.19 hours of MVPA per week. The disparity was even greater among fathers, who reported getting 5.33 hours of MVPA per week compared to 6.89 hours of MVPA per week for men without children. Finding time to exercise can be difficult for anyone. But new parents may find it especially difficult to get daily physical activity. While the following ideas may not replace the vigorous workouts new parents are accustomed to, they may help men and women maintain healthy body weights.
Skip shortcuts
Physical activity can be embraced just about anywhere. Though you may be used to daily workouts at the gym, such excursions may no longer fit into your schedule. To counter your
for convenience and not necessarily effectiveness. Workouts can still be effective if you spread them out over the course of the day. Exercising in small intervals throughout the day may help you maintain your energy throughout the day, and that should be especially appealing to parents of newborns. Squeeze in a quick workout each time your child naps throughout the day, and do your best to meet your daily quota while your spouse is tending to the baby.
Continue setting fitness goals
reduced hours at the gym, skip the shortcuts you have grown accustomed to taking. For example, take the stairs up to your office instead of the elevator and park further away so you can squeeze in some cardiovascular exercise. Skipping shortcuts is a great way to burn calories and can help you maintain a healthy weight even if you are no longer pushing yourself to the limit at the gym each day.
Once your child comes home, it’s easy to fall into a routine that does not include exercise. But your long-term health depends on a host of factors, including how physically active you are. Keep setting fitness goals even if it seems like you will have no time once your child is born. These goals can motivate you to find time for exercise no matter how much your lifestyle has changed.
Take your child along
When the weather permits, include your child in your exercise routine by taking the baby along with you on walks or bike rides. Purchase a fitness stroller so you can continue to jog even while you look after your child.
New parents need not abandon their exercise upon welcoming their child into the Spread your workouts out routines world. A concerted effort on the parts of moms over the course of the day and dads can ensure they continue to get adequate Many people tend to get all of their daily physical exercise each day. activity in one fell swoop. But that’s mainly done
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Unique ways to exercise at home
healthy, happy, balanced life 17
including problems with their knees, ankles and/or hips, should consult with their physicians before adding jumping rope to their exercise routines.
Embrace crunch time
Crunches are another effective way to exercise at home. Crunches don’t require a lot of space, making them great exercises for apartment dwellers or homeowners whose homes are less than conducive to exercise. Crunches strengthen the core and can help establish muscle tone. Crunches also burn calories. Be sure to adhere to proper form when performing crunches, as the wrong form can increase your risk of injury.
Become a squatter
E
ven the most devoted exercise enthusiasts sometimes encounter obstacles that make it hard for them to squeeze in their regular workouts. Weather can affect outdoor exercise enthusiasts, while busy work schedules can make it difficult to get to the gym. When unforeseen consequences compromise your ability to stick to your normal workout routine, working out at home might be your only option. The following are a handful of ways to exercise at home when leaving the house is out of the question.
Hit the stairs
Many gyms have StairMasterÂŽ products that can be used for high-intensity interval training,
You can become a squatter without breaking any laws. Unlike squatters who set up residence in a home without the permission of the homeowners, men and women who squat in their own homes are performing exercises that benefit various calorie-burning workouts and/or improving parts of their bodies. Squats can be performed flexibility. While you might not be able to with or without weights, and either option can duplicate the effects of such equipment at home, help tone your legs and buttocks, strengthen your you can take to the stairs in your home, walking up core and improve your flexibility. Be sure to use and down the staircases in your home to squeeze in proper form when performing squats. If you have some aerobic exercise. If you want to increase the never done squats in the past, first get the form intensity level, fill a backpack with some weights. down without using weights, only moving on to squatting with weights after you have mastered the form and if you feel like you want to. Dust off the jump rope Jumping rope is an inexpensive, effective way to burn calories and improve muscle tone. When The confines of a home may not always be confined to your home, jump rope in the garage or, conducive to exercise. But fitness enthusiasts weather permitting, in the driveway or backyard. who find themselves unable to get out of the Jumping rope is great cardiovascular exercise and house can still get a workout in. can strengthen the upper and lower body. Men and women who have histories of joint paint,
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Prolong the life of your hair colour Men and women have been colouring their hair for centuries, experimenting with different materials and chemical combinations to achieve their desired looks. In the mid-1800s, chemists began to work with non-natural dyes for the textile industry. At least one of the chemicals used in a dye derived from coal tar formed a colour when exposed to air. This molecule, called paraphenylenediamine, or PPD, eventually would go on to form the foundation for many permanent hair dyes.
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oth men and women colour their hair, but women tend to be more avid colourists. Many women stick to a strict schedule of colour maintenance, returning to the salon every four to six weeks for touch-ups. At an average cost of between $50 and $80 for a singleprocess permanent colour, according to polling by Angie’s List members (foil treatments and balayage highlights can cost more), the price of keeping colour looking fresh and vibrant can add up. It’s understandable that women would be interested in prolonging the life of their colour to help stretch out their budgets. Explore the different ways to extend the life of hair colour and enjoy healthier-looking locks.
Wash with cooler water.
Protect against the sun.
Your skin is not the only part of the body that needs to be shielded from the sun. Ultraviolet light can cause premature fading of hair colour. Look for a product that defends against UV damage, and wear hats when out in strong sun.
Understand the difference between products.
Hair colour can come in different formulations. Semi- and demi-permanent colours deposit colour without lightening and will wash out gradually after a certain number of shampoos. Permanent hair colours use a combination of components to open up the hair cuticle so that natural hair colour can be lightened and colour deposited as well. Someone unsure of a colour may want to try a semi-permanent formulation and then look to the permanent equivalent when satisfied so that the colour will last longer.
Use a colour-extending
Keep colour longer by turning down the thermostat product. in the shower. Hot water can cause the hair shaft Colour-extending products come in two varieties: to expand and lead to more dissolution of hair those that deposit small amounts of colour to colour molecules. Washing and rinsing with cool help keep the overall shade fresh, and others water can lock in the colour longer. that don’t add colour but help seal the cuticle so that existing colour will not fade away. The Good Housekeeping Research Institute tested nine brands, including 24 products, and found most of the products, such as colour shampoos, helped dyes last longer than regular shampoos.
Head back to the salon. Skip the sulfates.
Some salons offer free or inexpensive glossing treatments. This 10-minute service can extend the life of your hair colour.
Sulfates are detergents used in shampoos that produce those lush suds many people equate with By following some easy hair care tips, anyone cleanliness. Sulfates can strip dyes from the hair can keep their colour lasting longer. Clients and lead to premature fading. should speak with their stylists if they need more direction and advice about hair colour.
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healthy, happy, balanced life 19
Improve cosmetic skills with highlighting and contouring
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any women feel that a few well-placed cosmetic touches can improve their appearances and highlight their best features. There are scores of cosmetics on the market, with entire store aisles devoted to foundations, blushes, shadows, and other cosmetics. Discovering which brands and products work best for your particular skin type may take some trial and error before producing winning results. Makeup lessons do not end with product selection. Learning the keys to proper application can help women make the most of their cosmetics. Highlighting and contouring, often referred to as “HAC,” has been perfected and used by professional makeup artists for some time. HAC has transformed the faces of many celebrities and is often the technique of choice to add dramatic
effect to a woman’s look. The technique employs the use of lighter and darker shades of makeup to add dimension to the face with the intention of drawing attention to particular areas while downplaying others. With highlighting and contouring, women can create the illusion of more prominent cheekbones or a smaller nose without having to undergo plastic surgery. Contouring involves adding shadows in certain places to define areas and enhance shapes. Areas that you desire to retreat from the eye for a more sculpted look should be contoured. Contouring can be done by using a concealer crayon that is a few shades darker than your natural skin colour,
a bronzer or a deep shade of blusher. Contouring kits also make the job that much easier. Highlighting adds light to the face in key areas to make them more prominent. Highlighters may be sold as stand-alone products, or you can use a light concealer to achieve similar results. Depending on the shape of your face or your goal, contouring and highlighting shades will be placed in select areas. In many instances, darker hues are placed around the hairline, as well as in the crease of the cheeks that forms when you suck in your cheeks. Contouring also is added from the inside corners of the eyebrows down the sides of the nose. Bronzer applied under the chin and down the neck can make your neck appear elongated and thinner. Highlights typically are applied in the center of the forehead and down the front of the nose. Lighter hues can be used above the eyebrows and underneath the outer corners of the brows to define their shape. Apply a highlighter underneath the eyes stretching over the tops of the cheeks. Some women like to highlight the bow of the lips and the front of the chin. Contouring and highlighting should take place after you have used concealer and your base foundation. This allows you to blend the shades together so there aren’t any distinct lines in colour. Use a blush colour at the back of the apples of the cheeks to finish the look. Then feel free to play up your eyes and lips with desired shades.
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What is
sustainable clothing?
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onsumers who have adopted a greener way of living may include organic foods and beverages in their eco-friendly plans. Such men and women may be very familiar with the way organic foods are produced, including how these foods are made without the use of chemical pesticides or artificial growth additives. Organic items are not limited to just food and drink. Organic and sustainable clothing has exploded in popularity, providing yet another way to help preserve the environment. Currently there are no global or even domestic standards for organic or sustainable textiles like there are for organic produce. According to Organic Clothing, an eco-fashion resource, any product sold in the United States — regardless of where it was grown or produced — that carries the USDA Organic logo must have been inspected by a certified agent of the USDA certification program. Textiles do not need to be 100 per cent organic to carry organic labeling, according to the USDA. Other labeling standards may be overseen by The International Federation of Organic Agricultural Movements, The Organic Trade Association, and EKO/KRAV, a Scandinavian organization. Clothing fibres that do not meet strict organic requirements may fall under a broader umbrella term of “sustainable” fibres. These may include garments made from recycled materials or eco-friendly, manmade fibers. These, too, have their share of benefits. There are many advantages to choosing sustainable or organic fabrics and clothing. These materials may have been produced using less water, fewer pesticides and fewer herbicides
than conventional farming m e t h o d s . O rg a n i c cotton, for example, is produced from nongenetically engineered seed. These factors combine to help keep unnecessary chemicals from entering the environment. C l o t h i n g produced from recycled materials, such as plastics, keeps materials that are slow to decompose or those that do not break down from reaching landfills. The company ECOALF repurposes discarded fishing nets, plastic bottles, used tires,
post-consumer coffee, and post-industrial wool, among other materials into functional clothing. The company notes that one backpack made from recycled plastic bottles can keep 135 bottles from littering the environment. In addition to choosing sustainable options, consumers may want to research locally-produced clothing. Keep in mind that the benefits of organic and sustainable fibres may be negated by energy consumption of long shipping routes and transportation choices. Check labels to see where merchandise is produced and research the manufacturer to verify its production processes. Choosing sustainable clothing is another way to live an eco-friendly lifestyle. What may have started out as clothing produced from cotton, silk, hemp, and jute has expanded to include many upcycled materials as well.
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healthy, happy, balanced life 21
How to make your office more eco-friendly
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hen adopting more eco-friendly lifestyles, it can be easy for men and women to overlook their offices. While drivers can drive in ways that conserve fuel and homeowners can take steps to reduce their energy consumption at home, few people may give as much thought to making their offices more friendly to the environment. But there are many environmentally friendly practices that business owners and their employees can adopt around the office.
Turn computers off at quitting time
use today may very well be obsolete tomorrow. Businesses that want to be more eco-friendly should recycle rather than discard old equipment. Simply throwing equipment away might even be illegal depending on where an office is located. Some electronics contain mercury, lead or arsenic, hazardous materials that can do significant damage to the environment when not properly disposed of. Some retailers, including the office supply chain Staples, accept old equipment for recycling at their stores at no charge to business owners. If equipment is still functional but somewhat outdated, look into donating it to local organizations in need.
Frequently turning computers on and off can produce small surges of energy each time the computer is turned on. But the United States Department of Energy notes that this energy surge pales in comparison to the energy consumed when computers are left on for long periods of time. When going home for the day or leaving your desk for more than 20 minutes, whether it’s during lunch hour or to attend a meeting, turn your monitor off. If you expect to be away from your computer for more than two hours, turn both the Cut back on printing computer and the monitor off. Employers who Printing documents used to be the most effective make these suggestions to their employees may way to share them with coworkers and clients. reduce their office energy consumption and save But nowadays printing is one of the least efficient money along the way. and least eco-friendly ways to share documents. Instead of printing documents to show coworkers, Recycle old equipment create PDFs and email the PDFs instead. And Advancements in technology now occur at a rather than mailing contracts to prospective breakneck pace, so the equipment businesses clients, email contracts that accept e-signatures,
ultimately storing the contracts on your file server rather than in a dusty old filing cabinet.
Develop telecommuting policies
In analyzing data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2005-2014 American Community Survey, GlobalWorkplaceAnalytics.com found the population of regular work-at-home nonself-employed persons grew by 103 per cent between 2005 and 2014. Working from home is often seen as employee-friendly, but it also can benefit employers and the environment. When employees work from home, their employers need not purchase or lease as much office space, saving them substantial amounts of money. In addition, working from home cuts down on the number of commuters driving to work, decreasing fuel consumption and vehicle emissions. Employers who cannot allow employees to work from home full-time can still help the environment and their employees by allowing workers to work from home one or two days a week. Offices are not always eco-friendly, but there are several ways to make office life more efficient and environmentally friendly.
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4 reasons for a check engine light
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ehicles rely on many components working harmoniously to function at optimal capacity. Any number of systems can go wrong, and oftentimes the first indication that something has gone awry is an illuminated dashboard signal. One such signal is the “check engine” light. Many drivers have little idea what to do when this indicator lights up, and this light can cause some anxiety. According to Consumer Reports, a check engine light turning on does not usually require immediate action. However, it does mean that you should make an appointment to have the vehicle inspected for potential problems. Check engine lights are part of a car’s onboard diagnostics. The light turning on may indicate something minor, such as a loose fuel cap, or something more serious like a misfiring engine. When the light turns on, drivers wondering why may want to see if the answer is related to one of the following issues.
1. Loose gas cap Fuel vapors can leak out and air can get in when the fuel cap isn’t secured correctly. This can compromise the fuel system and make the check engine light come on. Take off the cap and then reseal it to see if that alleviates the problem. Cracked caps will need to be replaced.
2. Dirty oxygen sensor
3. Too much speed or load
A faulty or clogged sensor may not provide the right information about unburned oxygen from the vehicle’s exhaust. This sensor monitors how much fuel is burned. Compromised data can cause a decrease in fuel efficiency. Some doit-yourselfers can replace an oxygen sensor on their own, but those who can’t should have the issue addressed immediately by a professional.
Towing a trailer or another heavy item may put strain on the vehicle and cause the light to come on because of loss of power. Lightening the load and reducing speed can help fix the problem. Always consult with the owner’s manual to determine the towing capacity of your vehicle.
4. Short or faulty code Computers aren’t always fool-proof, and sometimes an electrical short or another similar problem can cause a light to come on. Bring the vehicle to an automotive supply store. Such stores typically have diagnostics tools that can be hooked into the car’s computer and provide a more detailed understanding of what is triggering the check engine indicator. In many cases, a steady check engine light is not a serious concern. However, when such a light comes on, drivers should try to find out why as soon as possible.
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healthy, happy, balanced life 23
4 ways to make your vehicle more ecofriendly
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any new vehicles are made with the environment in mind, as more and more drivers are embracing eco-friendly features that reduce the carbon footprints of their vehicles. But motorists need not purchase new cars to make their driving habits more environmentally friendly. The following are a handful of steps drivers can take to protect the environment regardless of how new or old their and air filters once they are no longer operating at vehicles are. peak capacity. Address any issues that arise with your vehicle’s emissions systems immediately, visiting your mechanic if the vehicle seems to 1. Maintain your vehicle. be sputtering or emitting any abnormal fumes. Even if your car or truck has no eco-friendly features designed to reduce fuel consumption and cut down on emissions, that does not 2. Slow down. mean the vehicle cannot be more fuel-efficient Driving above the speed limit is not just dangerous or produce fewer emissions. Adhering to the but potentially harmful to the environment as maintenance schedule recommended in your well. According the United States Department of vehicle owner’s manual can conserve fuel and Energy, each five miles per hour drivers drive over cut back on potentially harmful emissions. Well- 50 miles per hour is akin to adding an additional maintained vehicles burn less fuel, as they don’t $0.14 per gallon for gas. That’s because driving force engines and other components to work as above 50 miles per hour is far less fuel-efficient hard during operation as vehicles that have not than driving below that figure. So slowing down been taken care of. Replace worn down or dirty when posted speed limits mandate driving 50 spark plugs, which misfire and waste fuel, and fuel miles per hour or slower is not just safer and more
eco-friendly, it’s better for your wallet as well.
3. Keep cargo off the roof.
When you must haul cargo, keep that cargo in rear-mount cargo boxes or the backseat or trunk of your car rather than the roof. Rooftop cargo boxes make vehicles less aerodynamic, reducing highway fuel economy by as much as 17 per cent according to the U.S. DOE. By comparison, rearmount cargo boxes reduce highway fuel economy by just 2 to 5 per cent. If you haul cargo in your trunk, remove items when your trip is complete, as excess, unnecessary weight in the car will reduce its fuel efficiency.
4. Inspect the gas cap.
Few drivers may think to examine their gas caps while filling up at the pump, but such an inspection may reveal cracks or other damage that are wasting fuel. When gas caps are cracked, loose or damaged, fuel can escape gas tanks as a vapor, wasting fuel and contributing to emissions. If the cap is in need of replacement, consult your mechanic, the dealer who sold you your vehicle or the vehicle manufacturer.
Replacing cracked or damaged gas caps is one way to make a vehicle more eco-friendly.
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10 interesting facts about the environment
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ore people than ever are aware that certain behaviors can be detrimental to environmental health. You may understand the basics about overflowing landfills, waste washing up on beaches or global climate change, but you may not be aware of the specifics regarding these issues and others. The following are some enlightening facts about the environment, courtesy of EarthEcho International and Solar Energy World.
On average, one supermarket goes through 60 million paper bags each year. Scores of plastic bags are used as well.
1.
5.
Recycling one aluminum can save enough energy to run a TV for three hours.
2.
4.
Seventy-eight per cent of marine mammals are threatened by accidental deaths, such as getting caught in fishing nets.
Around 25,000 trees are cut down each day just to produce toilet paper.
8.
The United States is the No. 1 trash-producing country in the world.
6.
A glass bottle can take 4,000 years to decompose.
7. 9.
Ford Motor Company has said that 75 per cent of every vehicle is recyclable.
3.
Approximately five million tons of oil produced in the world each year ends up in the ocean.
Rainforests are being cut down at a rate of 100 acres per minute.
10.
If the entire world lived like the average American, we’d need five planets to provide enough resources.
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Enjoy summer with homemade sorbet
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essert and summer are a match made in heaven. Sweltering summer afternoons might not be comfortable, but any discomfort can be quickly washed away with a refreshing dessert, such as the following recipe for “Kiwi Fruit Sorbet” from Lou Seibert Pappas’ “Ice Creams & Sorbets” (Chronicle Books).
Kiwi Fruit Sorbet Makes about 1 quart 2 3/4 3/4 2 6 2
teaspoons grated lime or lemon zest cup sugar, divided cup water pounds kiwi fruit (about 8 kiwi fruit), peeled and quartered tablespoons freshly squeezed lime or lemon juice limes, quartered
In a small bowl, mash the zest with 1 teaspoon of the sugar to release the oils. Combine the remaining sugar and water in a small saucepan and bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Cook until the syrup is clear. Remove from the heat and let cool to room temperature. In a food processor or blender, purée the kiwi fruit with the juice, syrup and sugared zest. Transfer to a container, cover and refrigerate until thoroughly chilled, about 3 hours. Freeze in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Or, to freeze without an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a 9-inch nonreactive square pan. Cover with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and freeze just until solid, 2 to 3 hours. Scrape out into an electric mixer or food processor and process briefly until light and fluffy. Serve at once or transfer to a container, cover, and freeze until firm, about 2 hours. At serving time, garnish with a lime wedge to squeeze over each serving.
Cold beverage ideal for summer
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until the liquid smells and tastes strongly of ummer is a season synonymous with melon, four to seven days. relaxation. Sitting poolside or relaxing on a patio with a cold beverage is a great way to escape 3. Strain the mixture with a mesh strainer into a the daily grind and make the most of a warm clean quart jar. Do not push on the solids to evening, and the following recipe for “Summer extract more liquid. Cantaloupe” from Andrew Schloss’ “Homemade 4. Stir in the Simple Syrup. Liqueurs and Infused Spirits” (Storey Publishing) 5. Seal and store in a cool, dark cabinet. Use is tailor-made for summer nights. within one year.
Summer Cantaloupe Makes about 1 quart 1 fifth 4 cups 1 cup
(31/4 cups) 80-100 proof vodka cantaloupe chunks Simple Syrup (see below) Finely grated zest of 2 lemons
Simple Syrup Makes 3 cups 21/4 cups 21/4 cups
water granulated cane sugar
Mix the water and sugar in a small saucepan until the sugar is all moistened. Bring to a boil over 1. Muddle the vodka, cantaloupe and lemon zest medium-high heat. Stir to make sure the sugar is with a wooden spoon in a half-gallon jar. Stir completely dissolved, then remove from the heat to moisten everything. and let cool. Refrigerate for up to three months. 2. Seal the jar and put it in a cool, dark cabinet
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Ireland’s Ashford Castle
The Crown Jewel of Red Carnation’s Luxury Properties
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LIFESTYLES INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE
By Marc Atchison
CONG, IRELAND
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hen the car in which we are passengers reaches a point on the winding country road where fairytale Ashford Castle and its Lough Corrib backdrop come into view, the breathtaking panorama prompts us to simultaneously blurt out: “Oh my God!” “And that’s why they call this Oh My God Corner,” smiles Ryan, the charming young Irishman who picked us up at Galway’s rail station after our journey from Dublin. A few minutes later we are welcomed to the fabled castle — now part of the renowned Red Carnation Hotel Collection and a Leading Hotels of the World member — by a smartly dressed doorman donned in a top hat and emerald green long coat. We bound up the stairs of the 13th-century landmark, past the two stone Irish wolfhounds guarding the entrance, and enter a lobby wrapped in rich oak panelling and an even richer history. We are instantly impressed.
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While always regarded as the crown jewel of Irish hotels, Ashford Castle, thanks to a massive $100 million (Cdn) restoration initiated by Red Carnation’s owners Stanley and Beatrice Tollman after they bought the property in 2013, has been lovingly transformed into one of the great hotels of the world — some might argue it’s the greatest and few would disagree. (The influential Virtuoso travel group, in fact, recently awarded Ashford Castle its Best Hotel in the World Award). Staff snaps to attention when we enter the lobby, offer us an adult beverage and quickly whisk us through the arrivals process — their attentiveness quickly eases the stresses of a long day of travel. Majella McGovern offers to show us to our stateroom — 430. “It’s located in the oldest part of the castle, dating from 1228,” she tells us.
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Many people have owned Ashford Castle over the centuries, including one of Ireland’s most famous families. The head of the Guinness clan of black beer fame, Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness, bought the estate in 1852 and bequeathed it to his son Lord Ardilaun in 1868. It remained in a family trust until 1915 when new owners turned it into a hotel. As we make our way to Room 430, we pass the castle’s grand staircase where royalty (England’s King George V and Monaco’s Prince Rainier), a former U.S. president (Ronald Reagan) and the kings and queens of stage and screen (John Wayne, Maureen O’Hara, Pierce Brosnan and Robin Williams, among them) all left their footprints. Museum-worthy paintings and ancient artifacts like knight’s armour, regal red velvet furnishings, an overhead library filled with volumes of priceless books and an impressive array of crystal chandeliers adorn the Oak Hall where the staircase is located. We poke our heads into the Inglenook Room opposite Oak Hall and are surprised by the display cases filled with elegant silverware. “There’s over 1,000 pieces here that once belonged to Washington Augustus Roebling, the man who built New York’s Brooklyn Bridge,” Majella tells us. The Inglenook, where the castle’s most impressive fireplace is located — you can actually sit in it — drifts off into the lavish Connaught Tea Room where traditional high tea has been served
each afternoon since 1868. When Majella finally pushes open the large wooden door guarding Room 430, we’re left speechless by what’s inside. While each of Ashford’s 83 guest rooms are unique, our
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stateroom is simply stunning. The walls are covered in rich fabrics — a feature of all Red Carnation properties, apparently — and a large canopied bed sits in the middle of the oversized room with the cathedral ceiling. We’re especially
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Ashford spa
CONG, IRELAND
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awed with the red wine-coloured marble fireplace, which Majella says is an original from 1228. A set of narrow stairs beside the bed leads to a cozy reading loft where a day bed invites us to curl up with a glass of wine and a good book. While it appears we’ve stepped back into the 13th century thanks to the room’s lovely antique furnishings, we’re quickly brought back to modern times when we enter the bathroom, which has been totally remodelled and updated with the addition of state-of-the-art amenities like a large soaker tub, oversized shower, plush towels, heated floor and lots of high-end toiletries. Flat screen televisions, Wi-Fi and other modern gadgets complete the decor.
When Majella pulls back the room’s curtains, however, the true beauty of Ashford Castle is revealed. Below our window we see lovely flower beds and manicured lawns that sweep down to idyllic Lough Corrib, which is dotted with white swans, small forested islands and colourful fishing boats. Gorgeous! Two of the most famous rooms at Ashford are the Reagan Presidential Suite, where the late U.S. leader and his wife Nancy stayed during their historic 1984 visit to Ireland, and The Kennedy Suite, where U.S. senator Ted Kennedy spent time in the 1980s. Many American guests ask to stay in those historic rooms, which, like our stateroom, are located in the oldest part of the
he crowning achievement of the $100 million (Cdn) refurbishment of Ashford Castle by The Red Carnation Hotel Collection was the addition of a world-class wellness facility, complete with a state-of-the-art spa, health centre and swimming pool that sits under a glassed bronze conservatory overlooking stunning Lough Coirrib. Thanks to the luxury upgrades, Ashford Castle has been transformed into a “pleasure palace.” Just arriving in the fairytale woodland setting, where the 13thcentury castle is located, instantly puts guests in a relaxed frame of mind. But the spa staff, under the direction of congenial manager Michelle Ryan, completes the transformation to the world of ultimate bliss with treatments and products specifically designed to ease tension. Ryan, a passionate advocate of wellness, has assembled a superb team of therapists who conduct lengthy interviews with guests before treatments begin. The spa features five treatment rooms — including a couple’s room — a Hammam and a relaxation suite where guests look out on the gorgeous County Mayo countryside and Ireland’s second largest lake. Ryan is most proud of the products used in the spa, especially the organic Irish brand Voya, which hails from nearby County Sligo. “Voya is a family-run company (the Waltons) which uses seaweed in most of their products and the effects on the skin are quite amazing,” says Ryan. The spa also features other highly recognized international brands like Elemis — “it was created by an Irish woman,” Ryan proudly points out — and B Africa, a brand that until now was exclusive to Red Carnation’s African properties. One of the spa’s most popular treatments is the Voya seaweed hot stone massage, where warmed Atlantic leaves of seaweed are layered onto the body and warmed stones placed on top to enhance the penetration of their goodness. The results are amazing, as is the whole wellness experience at Ashford Castle.
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castle. For the next few days we immerse ourselves in the regal splendours of Ashford Castle, like: • Taking long walks in the gardens where lords and ladies once had their secret trysts away from prying eyes; • Playing a game of golf on the estate’s ninehole championship course designed by legendary Irish golf architect Eddie Hackett; • Enjoying treatments in the castle’s worldclass spa staffed by well trained therapists using some unique local ingredients like seaweed in their massages and scrubs; • Paying a visit to the stables where guests can saddle up well-groomed horses and meander along lovely wooded trails; • Taking a lesson in falconry (where I get the thrill of holding and feeding a Peruvian Harris hawk named Lima); • Strolling along the shores of the River Corrib — it’s the dividing line between County Mayo and County Galway — where we see fly fishermen expertly casting for trout; • And cap our stay off with a 10-course feast in the castle’s Michelin-star worthy dining room The George V (named after the British King who
visited here in 1905), and which is now ruled by acclaimed Chef Philippe Farineau. All these activities are proof positive why Ashford Castle is regarded as much a destination as a hotel. We also catch up on the castle’s colourful history with members of staff in the Prince of Wales Bar (it was George V’s private bar when he was here) and the grand parlour, where guests gather each evening to enjoy traditional Irish entertainment. Servers Paul (Coyne), Michael (Conolleey) and Simon (Piercy), the guardians of the Guinness at Ashford, tell me many famous actors and golfers have sat at their tables and walked the well-groomed fairways of the castle’s excellent course over the years. Duty manager Michael Hill also reveals that PGA legend Tom Watson once played the course before going on to win one of his five British Open championships. Ashford Castle is indeed an inspiring place. The third hole at Ashford golf course is called “Watson’s Way” because the Hall of Famer cut the corner on the 391yard, par 4 and chipped in for an eagle — a remarkable feat when you consider the forest obstacle that Watson had to
LIFESTYLES INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE contend with off the tee. “We’ve also had many famous people take their vows at Ashford — like actor Pierce Brosnan,” says Hill. The former James Bond married Keely Shaye Smith at Ashford Castle in 2001. The Ashford estate also served as the backdrop for director John Ford’s legendary 1952 film, The Quiet Man, starring John Wayne, Maureen O’Hara and Barry Fitzgerald. “Ford, O’Hara and Wayne all stayed in the castle during filming and the house next to our falconry was used as the main prop in the film,” says Hill, who adds, “many guests are still attracted to Ashford because of that old movie.” Speaking of movies, Ashord’s 32-seat theatre, where guests get to see Hollywood classics from the comfort of plush velvet seats while eating popcorn and sweets each evening, is one of the castle’s most popular spots, especially with families. So, too, is the lavish billiards room opposite the theatre — both were added during the castle’s latest refurbishment. Two of the most popular members of Ashford’s staff are Cronan and Garvin, the castle’s resident Irish wolfhounds, both of who like to mingle with guests in the Oak Hall. The gentle giants, whose breed is recognized as “the king of dogs and the dog of kings,” feel right at home in this palatial setting. Hill offers to show me the wine cellar, which is located in the 17th century part of the castle. Open for tastings, the cellar has a fabulous collection of old and new world vintages and has been the place of many marriage proposals. The Tollman family are very active in the running of Ashford Castle — some of Beatrice Tollman’s own family recipes, like her amazing chicken noodle soup, show up on the menus of George V and the Dungeon, the hotel’s casual dining spot. What really makes a stay at Ashford Castle special, though, is the way guests are treated by staff, many of whom have had long, distinguished careers at the property. Within a few hours of arriving, we’re on a first name basis with most of the servers and front desk staff, whose incredible Irish hospitality and charm soon make us feel like one of the family. Thanks to the Tollmans — and the fabulous staff they have assembled — Ashford Castle’s past, present and future are well secured and in good hands. By Marc Atchison, Editor-in-Chief, www.travelife.ca
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LIFESTYLES INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE
Ashford Falconry
CONG, IRELAND — A Peruvian beauty named Lima and I lock eyes. I offer her my arm and together we walk through the tranquil gardens and magical woodlands that surround legendary Ashford Castle. The sleek beauty nestles into my shoulder and delivers a few pecks. But just when I think we’re about to strike up an affair to remember, Lima flies off. A relationship with a Peruvian Harris hawk, I discover, can be fleeting. One of the favoured activities for guests at Red Carnation’s amazing Ashford Castle is falconry, the “sport” that dates back to ancient Egypt (circa 1,300BC) and became popular with the royal elite, both in Great Britain and the Middle East, in modern times. Ashford’s Falconry School offers guests the chance to interact with the 20 hawks housed on the grounds and meet other birds of prey that call Ashford home, like Peregrine falcons and an huge Eurasian owl named Dingle. Six instructors educate guests on the bird’s feeding habits and their ability to take down large animals with their dive-bombing techniques. Anna Aseeva, a charming falconry instructor from Russia, fits me out with a large leather glove before introducing me to Lima, one of the youngest Harris hawks on site. “Harris hawks are great hunters,” says Anna as she shows me how to hold my arm and hand so Lima feels more comfortable during our walk. “I’ll get you to launch Lima and
then we’ll lure her back with some pieces of chicken,” says Anna, who tucks small portions of chicken into the glove and Lima, with her massive wings spread, flies back, lands on my arm and devours her treat in seconds. “Harris hawks will eats a couple of ounces of food every day and they sleep a lot,” says the instructor, who points to a small sack on Lima’s chest. “They can’t digest all the food at once so the chicken will sit in the sack and Lima will digest it slowly.” The instructor says weight is very important. “It’s the only way we can tell if the birds are ailing. So we’ll weigh them every day and if there’s even a slight change, we react quickly.” The experience is not just educational, but also lots of fun. Back at the falconry school, Anna introduces me to Dingle, the massive owl with the saucersized eyes and the wing span of a 747, and tells me “this species has been known to take down small deer.”