Woman Messy

How to Make a Tiny Terrarium in a Light Bulb

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 17 Dec 2014 13:36:00 -0800

Create beautiful and elegant terrariums that will help your friends get closer to nature all year long!
Let's get started! We're going to go through the steps to create your very own little terrarium.

Dos and Don'ts:

Do use sand or small pebbles; these are good because water drains through them easily. ( Wet soil will get moldy in a confined area. You don't want this)
Do use Tillandsia, also known as air plants; these are a great choose for your tiny terrarium because they take all the nutrients they need from the air and a small amount of water. No roots means no wet soil which means no mold. You can buy tillandsia at garden stores or online.
Do choose preserved moss instead of live moss. Preserved moss isn't living, but it will hold moisture; this moisture raises the humidity level in the terrarium, which makes the tillandsia happy. You can find sheet mosses at garden and floral stores.
Do keep your terrarium some water. The tillandsia is alive and will need a small amount of water to stay that way. Water it by either removing it and soaking it in water once a week or, using a spray bottle, give it a small spritz of water every week or two. Pour out any excess water.
Do feel free to use little rocks, pieces of glass, or any other bits of things to help give your terrarium character. DON’T:
Don’t use soil. Again, you don’t want a soupy, moldy terrarium. That would be gross.
Don’t use live moss. Moss is really picky and isn’t likely to survive well in this environment.
Don’t keep your terrarium in the dark.
Don’t keep your terrarium in full sunlight, either.

How to: You'll need a few tools to make a tiny terrarium but nothing complicated to get started.

Needle-nose pliers
Scissors
Long tweezers or chopsticks
Flathead screwdriver
Glasses or goggles

Let’s start with the light bulb. I like the globe kind that are used to light bathroom vanities. You can buy them at any hardware store, or preferably, use one that’s burned out to save resources.

Don’t use “soft white” bulbs or else your terrarium will just look like January in Minnesota. I don’t think this is what you’re going for.

We will be removing the inside parts of the lightbulb. This step involves breaking glass, so wear glasses or goggles to protect your eyes. I recommend doing this over a box to contain any flying pieces of broken glass. And, obviously, this is an “adults only” kind of task.

First, remove the metal tip from the bottom of the bulb. Using needle-nose pliers, carefully nudge the sides of the metal tip from the black glass part.

Then, when enough of the sides are raised to get a good grip on them, hold one of the sides with your pliers and yank out the metal tip. You will feel a couple little wires snap when you do this.

Next remove the black glass. Hold one side of the glass with the pliers and firmly twist up to snap the glass. Repeat around the other sides and pull out any remaining bits of black glass. This glass is pretty thick and will take some force to break it; so be careful and hold onto the bulb firmly.

Now you will be able to see the interior parts of the light bulb.

Using the flathead screwdriver as a sort of lever, snap the interior tube from the side. It will make a totally satisfying little sound as the argon escapes. Then twist the screwdriver around to smash the containing tube. It takes some force to do this; be careful, but also don’t be afraid of the bulb itself breaking. It probably won’t. Hold tight to the bulb while you do this.

Pull out any remaining wires with the pliers.

If there are any last bits of glass around the interior edge, break these off with the screwdriver.

And now you have an empty light bulb! That is definitely the hardest part of the endeavor. Next, put adhesive silicone bumpers on the side of the bulb to keep it steady.

We’ll use sand as a substrate for the terrarium. You can buy it at a garden store or collect it from a beach. If you use beach sand you will need to thoroughly rinse it to remove any salt. The sand in this tutorial is from the beach, so our first step is to rinse it.

To dry it, either spread it in a thin layer on a cookie sheet and leave it sitting for a few days, or dry it in the oven at 300 degrees. Be careful taking it out, because it will, hopefully obviously, be pretty hot.

The sand should be completely dry before continuing.

Once it’s dry, put a couple tablespoons of sand into the lightbulb. Make this easier by either using a funnel or a folded piece of cardboard.

This terrarium includes preserved sheet moss, reindeer moss, and tillandsia.

Cut off a small bit of sheet moss and put in the bulb. Position it using a chopstick or long tweezers. Tear off a few small pieces of reindeer moss and add this, as well.

Put a tillandsia in the bulb, pushing the smaller end in first. Position the different elements to look nice together and add more moss or rocks if you’d like. It might take some poking to get everything in the right place; be patient and experiment with different arrangements.

Have fun and share with us your Terrarium!

Benefits of Cold Showers: 7 Reasons Why Taking Cool Showers Is Good For Your Helalth

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 14 Dec 2014 11:37:00 -0800

Taking cold showers instead of hot showers provides surprising health benefits from burning fat to depression relief for our skin and body.
Most of us have been caught in that skin cringing, and often dreaded moment of being the last one to shower. If you haven't then chances are that you've had someone walk into the bathroom, and flush the toilet mid-shower, leaving you covered in bone-chilling cold water. In these moments, instead of indulging in a hot luxurious shower, especially during the bitter cold winter months, we find ourselves shivering with discomfort and anger, but this may actually be advantageous to our health. Coined as the “James Bond Shower,” or often referred to as a “Scottish Shower,” turning the temperature down to freezing cold at the end can provide surprising benefits for our body and skin.

1. Increases Alertness

Taking a cold shower in the morning, and feeling cold water pour down over our body seems more horrifying than soothing. However, the deep breathing in response to our body’s shock helps us keep warm, as it’s increases our overall oxygen intake. Thus, our heart rate will also increase, releasing a rush of blood through our entire body. This gives us a natural dose of energy for the day.

Katherine Hepburn, a Hollywood actress, was a fan of cold showers. She began taking them daily after being pushed by Dr. Thomas Norval Hepburn, a urologist and pioneer in social hygiene, The New York Times reported. Katherine would take ice-cold baths or showers during childhood and for the rest of her life — she would advise others to do so as well. The actress swore by cold showers, and had a high energy level to support her claims.

2. Refines Hair and Skin

When it comes to hair and skin, one of the most natural ways to maintain your appearance is with cold showers. Hot water has the tendency to dry out our skin, so it’s best to use cold water to tighten your cuticles and pores, which will prevent them from getting clogged. Cold water can “seal” the pores in the skin and scalp too, preventing dirt from getting in.

Jessica Krant, board-certified dermatologist, told The Huffington Post that ice-cold or lukewarm water can help our skin and prevent it from being stripped of its healthy natural oils too quickly. Remember, cold water only temporarily tightens skin as it constricts blood flow, but it does not shrink pores. When it comes to haircare, cold showers can make hair appear shinier, stronger, and healthier by flattening hair follicles, and increasing their ability to grip the scalp.

3. Improves Immunity and Circulation

Cold water can improve circulation by encouraging blood to surround our organs, which can then help combat some problems of the skin and heart. As cold water hits the body, it's ability to get blood circulating leads the arteries to more efficiently pump blood, therefore boosting our overall heart health, according to Dr. Joseph Mercola, a natural health expert. It can also lower blood pressure, clear blocked arteries, and improve our immune system.

4. Stimulates Weight Loss

Cold showers can aid weight loss in an unexpected way. The human body contains two types of fat tissue, white fat and brown fat. White fat is accumulated when we consume more calories than our body needs to function, and we don’t burn these calories for energy. This body fat piles up at our waist, lower back, neck, and thighs, and is the one we all struggle to eliminate. Brown fat is the good fat, which generates heat to keep our bodies warm, and is activated when exposed to extreme cold, according to the Joslin Diabetes Center, a Harvard Medical School affiliate. Thus, cold showers can promote brown fat activity.

A 2009 study found that exposure to extreme cold temperatures activated brown fat in 23 and 24 participants by a 15-fold increase, meaning someone could lose up to nine pounds in a year if they kept this practice up.

5. Speeds Up Muscle Soreness and Recovery

We have all seen athletes taking ice baths after training to reduce muscle soreness, but a quick cold shower after breaking a sweat at the gym can be just as effective, especially in relieving delayed-onset muscle soreness. A 2009 study analyzing 17 trials involved over 360 people who either rested or immersed themselves in cold water after resistance training, cycling, or running. It found that 24-minute cold water baths were effective in relieving sore muscles one to four days after exercises with a water temperature of 50 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit, or 10 to 15 degrees Celsius. However, some studies involved colder temperatures.

6. Eases Stress

Jumping into the shower without letting it heat up, or going into the ocean without slowly acclimating to it, can help promote hardening, increasing tolerance to stress, and even disease. A 1994 study found a drastic decrease in uric acid levels during and following exposure to a cold stimulus. There was also an increase in gluthathione, an antioxidant that keeps all other antioxidants performing at their optimal levels. The participants, who were 10 healthy people who swam regularly in ice-cold water during the winter, adapted to repeated oxidative stress.

7. Relieves Depression

Cold showers have been shown to relieve depression symptoms due to the intense impact of cold receptors in the skin, which send an overwhelming amount of electrical impulses from the peripheral nerve endings to the brain. Thus, it produces an antidepressive effect, and boosts moods, making it a pick-me-up. A 2008 study found that cold hydrotherapy has an analgesic effect, and does not appear to have noticeable side effects or cause dependence. This treatment included one to two cold showers of 38 degrees Fahrenheit, two to three minutes long, followed by a five-minute gradual adaptation to make the procedure less shocking.

It’s time to take a duck to water, and try the benefits of hydrotherapy.

Upcycled Sweated Slippers

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 12 Dec 2014 11:18:00 -0800

WE CAN RE-DO IT!!!!!!
LETS START...
GREAT IDEA DOR CHRISTMAS GIFT .

TOOLS

*manilla folder

*pencil

*scissors

*double stick tape

*needle and thread

*tailor's chalk

*sewing machine (optional)

Materials:

old sweated
2 pieces of 12'X 8" felt ( maybe be larger if you have a really big foot)

Creating the footbed

Step 1 : Trace your foot onto a manilla folder. Clean up the shape till you like the way it looks.

Step 2 : Cleanly cut out.

Step 3: Next trace the pattern onto your pieces of felt. Trace the pattern twice per piece of felt, as we'll need two piece per slipper- one for the sole and one for the midsole.

When you're done you'll have 4 foot shaped pieces of felt:

Step 4: Now place the foot pattern into the sweated with the heel 1 1/4 - 1 1/2" away from the bottom edge of the sweated. Draw and arc around the pattern that is 1" above the toes and then extends straight down. ( Don't worry that there is more allowance on the sides: it's supposed to be that way!)

Step 5: Cut out.

Flip the pattern over and repeat step 4 and 5 for the other foot.

Step 6: Use double stick tape to stick the felt piece into the sweater.

Step 7: Then repeat on the back side: Take your time to try to lineup the two pieces of felt as precisely as possible. ( It will make the sewing look much prettier!)

Step 8: Place on your sewing machine with good side facing up and stitch all around.

**This step can also be handstitched. I'd suggest using a contrast color embroidery thread, so that it will become part of the design.

Preparing the Plug

Now we'll make the plug. (This is the part of the slipper that will be on the top of our foot, with footbed sewn all around it.)

Step 1: Cut off each of the sleeves 5" from the bottom.

Step 2: Stitch the sleeve opening shut.

Step 3:Round the other end. When you've finished this, the plug will look like an egg with a flattened bottom.

Now you have all the pieces and are ready to assemble the slipper!

Sewing It Up

Step 1: Place the the plug over top of the foot bed with good sides together. The pointed area of the plug should be lined up with the center top of the foot bed. Tack stitch together at the point.

Step 2: Pull the plug back 1" from where it would rest naturally and tack stitch the left and right corners onto that place.

Step 3: Make two more tack stitches. One at the midpoint between the point and corners stitches on the right and then on the left.

Step 4: Starting from the left side, moving right, stitch all around, evenly distributing the excess material from the footbed as you go. (It should be much easier to do this thanks to the tack stitches you did in the previous steps.)

Step 5: Flip right side out, then make two snips on either side of the heel that go almost all the way to the felt.

Step 6: Fold the two side pieces to form the back of the slipper. Insert the center flap into the slit at the bottom.

Step 7: Close the back by running two rows of stitches up the back about an itch apart. Then sew straight across the bottom to close the slit.

Adding A Collar

The last step in finishing the slipper is to add a collar. This will give the edges a clean finished look and keep the slipper from being so floppy.

Step 1: Cut all around on the bottom of the sweater. Trim to about 2" high and cut in half. (If you can cut in half right on a side seam, even better.)Then put a little double stick tape on each piece.

Step 2: Fold in half around the top edge of the slipper and tack stitch a few place to keep it from flipping up. And that's it, they're ready to wear!

I was left with a good amount of extra sweater, which I've turned over to my kiddo, Ophelia. Ophelia is a wiz at making amazing stuffed animal from all things scrap.I look forward to updating this in the near future with what she created from the remnants.

Think warm thoughts. The spring will be here before we know it:)

Hope u can do it and share with us :)

10 Compassionate Ways to Support Loved Ones Suffering from Depression

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 10 Dec 2014 11:54:00 -0800

Depression is a very serious, isolating, but treatable disorder that affects millions of people of all ages from all walks of life. Depression causes tremendous emotional and physical pain, hurting not only those suffering from it, but affecting the people around them as well.

If your loved one is struggling with depression, you yourself, may also be experiencing a variety of difficult emotions including frustration, guilt, helplessness, anger, fear, and sadness. This is completely normal. It's not easy dealing with a family or friend's depression, and many times, you will be left feeling helpless and confused. But as pointless as it may seen at times, please know your support IS significant.

Here are 10 ways you can compassionately and effectively support your loved one who is struggling with depression.

1. ACKNOWLEDGE THAT DEPRESSION IS SERIOUS ILNESS AND SHOULD NOT BE UNDERESTIMATED.

Depression is a medical condition. Do not confuse this with the emotion of “feeling sad & depressed.” Most people still believe that depression is due to personal weakness, laziness, and even lack of religion, and as such, minimize the sufferer’s pain and struggles; adding more feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and shame to the depressed.

It’s important to understand that depression is not a choice and sufferers cannot simply “snap out of it.” By understanding that depression is a real illness, you will be able to better support your loved one with compassion, patience, and an open mind.

2. BE THERE

Simply sitting with your loved one while they cry, or quietly holding their hand as they struggle through their thoughts and emotions can be more helpful than trying to give advice or encouraging them to be physically active. Be aware that they could be feeling exhausted or irritable and may not be very pleasant company. It’s important you do not to take this personally because these are just byproducts of the illness.

Offering to accompany them to therapy sessions and doctor’s appointments can be an incredible act of support as well. By doing this, you’re showing your loved one that you believe that what they’re struggling with is very real, and will not brush it off as something unimportant.

3. RELEASE JUDGMENT.

Depression is not a weakness or personality flaw; it is a medical illness. Most people suffering from depression already feel ashamed, weakened, and worthless, so judging and criticizing them will do nothing other than make a painful situation even worse, and possibly isolate you from your loved one.

It’s critical that you open yourself to accept the seriousness of the illness, in order to offer genuine support and compassion for your loved one who is struggling with this most painful, exhausting, and lonely condition.

4. LET THEM KNOW THEY'RE NOT ALONE IN THIS.

Struggling with depression can feel like navigating alone through a strange, long, dark tunnel that no one else can understand or believe. It will be important for you to clearly communicate to your loved one that they don’t have to travel this path alone.

Let them know you are an ally—communicate to them that you believe there’s light at the end of the tunnel and you’ll see them through. “It’s you & me vs. depression. Let’s beat this.”

5. ENCOURAGE TREATMENT.

Some people with depression don’t even realize that they have it, so seeking professional help doesn’t even cross their minds. And many times, those who suffer from depression feel too ashamed to admit they are, or convince themselves to believe it can be overcome with time and willpower. It’s rare for depression sufferers to get better without treatment.

Discuss the various treatment types with your loved one. If they are not yet receiving professional help, they may feel a sense of shame, weakness, or defeat which can hinder them from taking any action. Volunteering to schedule a doctor’s appointment or to accompany them to see a counselor will help lighten the pressure and stress in taking these next positive steps.

If your loved one is strongly opposing treatment or shows damaging and harmful behaviors, please contact a doctor or other mental health professional for advice.

6. AVOID " MOTIVATING" YOUR LOVED ONE TO " ASNAP OUT" OF DEPRESSION.

What you say certainly can have a powerful impact on your loved one. Statements such as: “You need to focus on the good things in your life instead of the bad” simply imply that your loved one actually has a choice in how they feel and have chosen to be depressed. No matter how good your intentions may be, the depressed person will find it insensitive and possibly isolate themselves from you even more.

7. DON'T MINIMIZE THEIR PAIN OR OFFER PERSONAL ADVICE.

Glossing over their difficulties with statements such as: “Why must you be so sensitive” or “Just get through today because tomorrow will be better” invalidates their struggles through this very serious illness, and instead, makes them feel ashamed and inadequate by implying weakness or a personal flaw.

And unless you’ve personally suffered from depression, you’ll quickly find that telling your loved one you know how they feel will not be very helpful. While your intention may be to help them feel less alone in their despair, comparing a depressed person’s suffering to a hardship such as a recent breakup or a terrible fight with a close friend will only create more distance between you and your loved one.

What’s possibly helpful is to suggest something simple such as: “How about we get some air outside while we talk?” because it opens up space for your loved one to share their thoughts and emotions with you, with less pressure or feelings of judgement, shame, and guilt.

8. LET THEM KNOW THAT DEPRESSION ISN'T THEIR FAULT.

It’s very important for the healing process, to communicate with your loved one that depression isn’t their fault. Many sufferers feel they are depressed because they did something wrong, there is something wrong with them, or they’re too weak to function properly.

Depression is an illness. People struggling with depression need to know they did not choose to be depressed—just as cancer patients don’t choose to have cancer.

It is just as important that YOU know this too.

9. ASK WHAT THEY'RE THINKING.

Don’t be afraid to check in with your loved one who is suffering from depression and ask what they’re thinking. Many people believe asking a depressed person for their thoughts will provoke harmful ideas. Nothing can be further than the truth. Whatever is in your loved one’s mind is there whether you ask about it or not. Asking will not make them worse, but NOT asking risks not knowing about something that could be lethal.

If you believe your loved one is considering suicide, don’t be afraid to ask. Again, doing this will not provoke harmful ideas, but instead, allow your loved one to possibly open up to treatment. Please keep in mind that thoughts of suicide for a depressed person is not an act of selfishness. Depression clouds judgment and completely distorts one’s thoughts, causing them to believe death is the only solution to end the excruciating pain they are feeling.

10. BE GENTLE WITH YOURSELF.

Helping someone you love as they struggle through depression can be exhausting and draining, both mentally and physically. Making sure your own needs are being met is not an act of selfishness. If you are not well, you will not be effective for yourself or your loved ones. Your health and strength will allow you to provide the comfort and support your depressed friend or family member needs.

Make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating well, maintaining healthy emotional boundaries, and getting some fun time for yourself.

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Pecan Pie

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 9 Dec 2014 11:46:00 -0800

Who said Pecan Pie is only a Thanksgiving Day Pie? I think it should be for every Holiday, that’s how much I love it! Pecan Pie is defiantly my favorite pie over any of the other Holiday pies.
I love the sweet and nutty flavor it has and its just plain delicious! I do make this every Thanksgiving but I think I might have to start making it for Christmas, Easter, and maybe even Mother’s Day. ( Yes I will have to make my own Mothers day Pie, Because its my favorite and let’s be honest My husband could never bake it nor buy one as good as this recipe for my special day.) Have I mentioned how easy this pie is also. Especially because I use store bought crust, and then you simply mix all the ingredients together and pour it in! SO simple and so YUMMMMMMY! Enjoy!

Here's What you'll need...

1 pre made pie crust dough
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup dark corn syrup
3 large eggs
1/4 teaspoon of salt
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped pecans ( about 6 ounces)
whipped cream for serving

Place a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 400 degrees.

First is the dough.Transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate, fitting it into the pan without stretching; crimp the edges of the pie shell. Using a fork, gently prick the bottom of the crust a few times and refrigerate.

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, corn syrup, eggs, 2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon vanilla and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt

Cover the bottom of the pie crust evenly with the pecans and pour in the filling.

Bake the pie, rotating it halfway through, until the crust is golden and the filling is set in the middle, about 45 minutes. IMPORTANT- Cover your pie the last 15-20 minutes with FOIL so your crust doesn’t burn! (I BURNT mine a little more then I like!)

Let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 45 minutes.

Top with cream when your ready to serve.

One Banana A Day, Keeps The Doctor Away!- Fitness Banana Benefits

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 8 Dec 2014 10:51:00 -0800

Oh, yes! It doesn't have to be an apple! Banana keeps the doctor away too! Did you know how much healthy benefits contains one banana?! Well enough to keep the doctor away! I will give you a list of the benefits, and believe me, you will be amazed! Creamy, rich, and sweet, bananas are a favorites fruit for everyone to enjoy, and they are a good source of both vitamins and minerals, as well as fiber. So let's see these amazing banana benefits!

Rich in Potassium
Banana are among the biggest food sources of potassium. This mineral is essential for maintaining proper heart function and regulating normal blood pressure.

Source of Energy

Why energy drink and bars, when you have one perfect fruit for that! The amazing banana gives you the energy that can give you these energy sport drinks and bars, in a healthier package. Well, we often see athletes eating bananas just before sports. So, what are you waiting for?!

Helps Digestion

One more banana benefit, is the fiber. Bananas are a great source of dietary fiber that most of us don’t get nearly enough of. Fiber helps the food we eat, to move smoothly through the digestive tract. This, on the other hand, helps to improve elimination. So, that banana fibers, are helping our digestion process.

Vitamin B6

Bananas are high in vitamin B6, and this vitamin is important for creating hemoglobin, and that gives you one hell of a healthy blood! B6 also maintains proper blood sugar levels and it gives you a stronger immune response in your body. And, just one banana has a full fifth of your recommended daily intake of vitamin B6.

Vitamins & Minerals

Alongside the high levels of potassium and vitamin B6 I have already mentioned, bananas are also rich in vitamin C, magnesium and manganese. They are also a source of most of the other B vitamins, and smaller amounts of trace minerals like iodine, iron, selenium and zinc.

Reducing the Stress

Bananas are a good source of the amino acid tryptophan. This helps you to improve your mood, and it also reduces your stress and enhance your general outlook and happiness levels. It also helps you to regulate your sleep, by giving you healthy sleep.

Bananas & Weight Loss

Finding sweet foods that will fit into your weight-loss and eating program, can be very challenging. But, after seeing all these bananas benefits, I will confirm to you that bananas make a perfect fit it your fitness lifestyle. Bananas are naturally sweet and can help curb your sweet tooth if you get that afternoon sugar craving. A 6-inch banana has a minimal 90 calories, about one-fourth of the calories you would get from a chocolate candy bar. So go on, eat bananas, and you don’t have to worry about the calories and about your weight loss programs! It actually helps you in this process, because it gives you the energy you need for your workout.

Amazing Ways To Turns Your Partner On To Look Good In Bed

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 7 Dec 2014 20:31:00 -0800

Don’t you want your partner to be attractive? I hope it’s a big YES. Everybody is looking for the right life-partner. A person who not just understands you, but also fulfills your sexual desires. Everybody has got sexual desires and we need to accept it. How your partner turns you ON along with the emotional factors contribute towards a long-term relationship. There is also an increasing value for psychological intimacy. The more you look for the hotness in your partner, the more strongly your relation binds you together.

We provide you with some of the factors that will contribute to the hotness you perceive or look in your partner:

1.You appreciate your partner’s changes over time.

It is found that the married women in their study of changes in relationship and sexual satisfaction over time felt that their partners were getting sexier and sexier. Women in close relationships don’t hold their partners to an unrealistic standard of youth and beauty Unfortunately, aging women tend to look less attractive than aging men. If you want to see your partner as sexy, you have to take up a realistic approach to the way our bodies reshape themselves, as we grow older every single day.

2.Your partner is at-least slightly health-conscious.

It is found that strong relationships exist between self-reported sexual satisfaction and waistline circumference of the partners as well as of oneself. Waist size is understood to be an indicator of a person’s overall health status. It indicates that both men and women are turned on by a partner who stays in shape. It reflects society’s emphasis on thinness as a standard of beauty. You have to be physically in shape and active in order to keep promoting a much better hormonal functioning which in turn will keep your sexual spirit uplift. Having your partner interested in sex turns you ON as well.

3.You’ve always been interested in sex.

You might not have the desire and spirit to have sex which in turn might result in your less interest in having sex now. It is found that as adults, the people with fewer sex partners earlier in their lives tended to be less interested in having sex now. You will be more likely to find your current partner sexually attractive if you were someone who was sexually active even before meeting her. With sex in mind you visualize your current partner to be sexy.

4.Your partner understands your preferences.

Because sexual satisfaction is a mutual course of action, you’ll be more likely to respond to a partner who “gets” you. Women can value a variety of sexual behaviors instead of orgasm. If their partner was engaged in these behaviors, it would result in a women’s sexual satisfaction. If your partner is able to identify your sexual needs and desire, then you will continue to find your partner attractive over time.

5.Your partner is available.

If you haven’t developed a relationship yet, or if you are not in a relationship at all. Who will appeal to you? However, looking for a new partner presents a different set of challenges than just staying attractive to the person you are in a relationship with. Most of the time people look for partners who were not in a romantic relationship before. So, if you are looking for your partner, you know the best place to look at.

Predicting who will fall for whom is actually something that science can never explain, however; you can understand what leads you to discern your current partner as someone who will turn you on both now and in the years yet to come.

How to sew on a button by hand.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 03:08:00 -0800

Buttons are an extremely common item that we’ve all encountered. And if you’re like me when I started sewing, you probably have a basic understanding of how a button is attached to fabric but aren’t sure exactly how to sew on a button for yourself. It is a very handy skill to learn, however, and can open you up to a wide variety of crafts and projects to complete.

Here is a guide on how to sew on a button, and hopefully you find it helpful!

First, you’ll need a button, fabric, and corresponding thread. For this example I’m using a sharply contrasting thread, but typically you’ll want one that matches your fabric and/or button.

We’ll start on the underside of the fabric, the opposite side from where the button will be. Starting from this side, stitch a small “X” on the front of the fabric to mark where the button will be. Your loose end of thread will be on the underside, but this “X” will be on the outside. If your button slides around during stitching, use this “X” to keep it in the right spot.

Place your button right on top of this “X” then place a pin, needle, toothpick, or similarly-shaped object on top of the button. This will keep you from sewing the button too tightly, which will be important later. This object is called the spacer.

Next, starting from the underside of the fabric, push your needle up through one of the holes of the button and down through another hole across your spacer.

Repeat this for the second set of holes if you’re using a 4-hole button like I am.

Now repeat the process multiple times for each set of holes. You can get creative and criss-cross holes if you’d like, but for simplicity’s sake I’m just going straight across. Three times per set of holes (6 total) should be sufficient.

Finally, from the underside of the fabric, push the needle up through the fabric but not through a hole. The thread should come out from under the button.

Now remove your spacer and lift your button away from the fabric. Thanks to your spacer, there will be some slack.

Now circle your thread around the slack below the button to form the shank. The shank gives the button some height so that it can sit on top of the fabric when pushed through the buttonhole. The thicker your fabric, the more times you should wrap the thread. For most fabrics, 6 times is enough.

Now push your needle down through the fabric to tie off the thread. I do this by first pushing the needle through the stitches but don’t pull it all the way through to form a loop in the thread and use that to make the knot. Then take the loose end from the beginning of the process and tie a square knot.

Trim your ends and you’re done! Your button is ready for action

Happy sewing!

How to Sew a Buttonhole

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 02:43:00 -0800

In this post, I covered how to sew on a button by hand. But we all know a button is not very useful without a hole for it! So how do you sew a buttonhole?

Many sewing machines come equipped with a buttonhole stitch and foot. If your machine has this function, sewing a buttonhole is as easy as a little set up and pushing the pedal according to your machine’s instructions. If not, there’s still hope for you!

This post will teach you how to sew a buttonhole using a simple zigzag stitch.

First, mark your fabric where the buttonhole will go. The length of the hole should be just slightly longer than the width of the button. I’m using a 5/8″ button, so my hole will be just longer than 5/8″. When you do this on a real craft, you’ll want to use something easily washable like tailor’s chalk, because buttonholes usually show on the finished product. For this demonstration I’m just using a fabric marker.

Next, set up your fabric in your machine with the regular presser foot. It’s wise to use interfacing before you sew a buttonhole to stabilize the fabric, but for this demonstration I’m just using two layers of cotton fabric. Start with the top of the hole below the needle.

Set your machine to a wide zigzag stitch, with a stitch length of 0. Sew a few stitches and then stop.

Adjust your fabric so that the needle is just to the right of the mark. Set your machine to a narrower zigzag stitch with a short stitch length (but longer than 0) and sew the length of the mark.

when you reach the bottom, repeat the wide zigzag stitch used at the top.

Now position your fabric so that the needle is to the left of the mark. Stitch in reverse with a narrow zigzag stitch and a short stitch length.

Now cut your thread and pull the fabric out of the machine. Using a seam ripper and/or small scissors, cut the fabric on the mark. Be careful not to cut the stitches!

Now your buttonhole is ready to go!

Happy sewing!

30 DIY Storage Solution to keep the kitchen organized

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 23:17:00 -0800

Spring cleaning always has me thinking about reorganizing and decluttering each and every room as I work my way throughout the house. It always amazes me just how much stuff can accumulate in just a year. I usually take the opportunity to evaluate just where we are and if there are any changes that can be made to make life a little simpler, more convenient, and of course more organized.

One space that never lets me down is the kitchen. There are always new clever ideas that not only make day to day tasks a bit easier by saving time – but save desired space as well.

This week’s Inspiration and Ideas highlights thirty of those clever ideas – and the best part is most of them are easy do-it-yourself projects that can be completed

with a simple trip to your local hardware store.

Build Under Cabinet Shelves

Make your own back of door spice racks

Build a canister and spice rack

Magnetic spice storage

Pet board dish drawer organizer

Place rack kitchen cabinet insert

Build it yourself plate rack plan

Measuring cup cabinet door hang up

Repurposed hardware utensil hangers

Do it yourself kitchen drawer utensil organizer

Serving try shelf divider

Use wire closet racks as cabinet organizers

Metal tower bar lid storage racks

Tension rod drawer lid storage

Pet rack kid storage

Repurposed desk organizer

Cutting board storage rack

Tension curtain rods used as cabinet divider for pans & trays

Add rods to cabinet to create vertical storage for trays, cutting boards

Use plywood panels to create cookware organizers

Build a cabinet storage unit for pans and trays

Pull out kitchen cabinet drawers

Roll out under cabinet storage storage bins

Window valance pot rack

Handrail and S-hook pot rack

Under the cabinet dish tower rods

Turn a bottom cabinet into appliance

DIY custom shelving to utile utilize unused wall space

and if you need some help cutting down what is actually keep in your kitchen drawers, check out the one month cardboard box test from Peter Walsh at Oprah.com. It a sure way to empty those drawers and only put back the items you actually use.

Super Inexpensive & Simple DIY Storage Solutions

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 20:38:00 -0800

Lets face it. Storage can get expensive!!

If you let it.

I get asked all the time about "budget" storage and organizing.

So I thought I would browse the wonderful web for some of my favorite ways folks have thought outside of the box to create or dress up inexpensive storage containers, and all can be done on the CHEAP!

Be ready to get out that decorative paper and pair it with some everyday household items to create some magical storage solutions!

Do you know what these incredibly adorable containers were once upon a time? Cleansing wipes. And now those containers are covered in pretty paper and function as shopping bag dispensers of all things! Purely genius!

Once a shoe box, now AMAZING and pretty ribbon storage! Love.

Another ribbon box, however, this one was decorated and then a power strip strip was popped inside to hide all of hide all of those pesky changing cords!

More examples of why I adore covering simple tin cans with decorative paper. Its a no fail pretty to store just about anything.

How adorable is that mint tin? It is perfect for corralling business cards or other little trinkets you may want to carry along in your purse!

More creative craft storage, only this one is tiered and can be placed center of a table! Simple cake pans paired with candle sticks and wow, versatile storage that can go from crafts to cutlery!

Maybe you don't have a cake pan but a spare baking sheet instead? A little fabric and the try goes from dollar store to high end design!

Any mom knows that babies come with baby wipes. Lots of tubs of baby wipes. Those tubs can make fantastic storage {I like to use them in the laundry room for dryer sheets}, so why not dress them up with some pretty vinyl or decorative paper or even fabric?

This seriously has to be one of the most fantastic ideas I have ever seen. You will never guess what that adorable cell phone holder was made from. Baby lotion. I know, take a minute to wrap your brain around that super smart idea!

Wooden magazine files are dressed up when paired with pretty papers and metal label embellishments! Simply sweet!

Pill cases don't need to just hold our daily vitamins. They also make perfect scrapbook embellishment storage!

Jars are one of my favorite storage essentials. They can become magnetic and be paired with adorable labels to create storage in the bathroom, kitchen, garage or craft space! So much versatility and they last a lifetime so it's always a win win investment!

Talk about unexpected uses for things. Straw holders for spools of ribbon? Never would have thought of it but it works perfectly!

I have always been a fan of covering soup cans and kleenex boxes to create pretty and free DIY storage. Sometimes it's easy to forget how many things we have right at our fingertips! With a little creative thinking and minor crafting abilities, we can have gorgeous storage just by shopping our homes!

What innocent household objects have you attacked with fabric and pretty paper lately? Who is motivated now to scour your home and re-purpose something into fabulous storage? Me Me Me!

7 Mistakes New New Wives Make That Can Ruin a Marriege

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 13:26:00 -0800

If you are going to tie the knot soon, you need to know some of the worst mistakes most new wives make that can ruin a marriage. It may seem these mistakes are not so serious and they couldn’t affect your marriage, but they actually can. Avoid the following mistakes to have a happy and solid marriage.

Saying Insulting things

Even if you didn’t argue with your sweetheart before marriage, you’re going to fight after tying the knot. When you do, make sure you don’t say insulting things that you would not have said before marriage. I always recollect my parents’ behavior in such cases – for more than 20 years of marriage they didn’t use a single offensive word to each other. And I consider such relations to be a role-model. If you have a violate quarrel with your man, tell him what exactly made you angry. However, don’t use insulting words no matter how angry you are. They will be especially offensive if you touch upon his weak points that you have already learnt. This is a sure way to ruin your relationship. Plus, he would definitely not appreciate such changes after getting married. I would advise you to nip this tendency in bud. Just imagine that your lover says offensive things to you. I think you would hardly forgive him. He feels the same when you do it. Sure, you can apologize later, but you can’t take your offensive words back. And even your regret couldn’t help the situation. Always think twice before saying something. Remember, that one day your insults could be the last drop.

Taking out the trash

Perhaps it sounds silly, but this little thing can cause lots of problems in your marriage. Do you want to take the trash out all the time? Don’t do it. Let your husband take out trash, he might do it without fights. For example, I like to leave little funny messages on the fridge if I want to remind my sweetheart something important. A funny sentence on a pink piece of paper cannot irritate anybody. And it works! The main point here is the way you formulate the sentence. Try to avoid categorical forms and use loving words and smileys instead. Another way to solve the problem is to establish a schedule. Take turns in this duty and nobody will get offended. In any case, don’t slam the door, don’t break cups or blackmail! If you want to have a strong and happy family, you shouldn’t get angry at trifles. Think logically, if you cannot agree on this childish thing, what will happen when more serious issues arise? Develop a habit of taking out a trash each morning when you go to work. Just put the pack by the door. Be sure, he won’t forget to take it. This simple tip will help to make your family life a bit easier.

Flirting

Just because you tied the knot doesn’t mean you should stop flirting. If you do it, the magic of love will begin disappearing. Most wives believe they don’t have to keep things fun when they are married, but they’re mistaken. I love sending flirty texts to my hubby and flirting with him after work. This helps to keep things fresh between us.

Another way to refresh your feelings is dating. Do you remember when you went out last time? Was it shopping? Trust me, a date is a great chance to remember the beginning of your relationship. Your date will become even more interesting if you get ready for it separately from your sweetheart. If you have children, get a baby sitter or ask your parents to look after them for one evening, so that you can relax and concentrate on each other.

I’m also crazy about little cute presents and surprises! They are very effective if I want to apologize for a little squabble. When my hubby and I want to go through our memories again, we start watching our vacation videos, wedding photos and telling old stories to each other. I am always surprised at how our feelings rekindle with new force. Make use of these tips to refresh your own relationship.

Talking over chores

Taking over all of the chores, including the finances, is another mistake almost every new wife makes. At the beginning of the marriage, both of you will think that it’s great when a wife takes over the finances, but it will actually wear on you later. Try to make decisions together. Moreover, it can be offensive for him as a man when you take care of everything by yourself. It can lead to his indifference and irresponsibility. And you will soon blame him for unconcern. Here are some rules that exist in my family. Budget is an important aspect of any family. That’s why we think together how to spend money regarding our priorities. The next activity we share is household duties. From the very beginning we used to do everything together. For instance, when I cook dinner, my husband puts everything in order. Or, when he goes shopping, I clean the house.

When we moved in a new flat, it required certain repairs. You won’t believe, but this common activity was such a fun! I didn’t even think it was a hard work. Moreover, common activity is a very good way to refresh your feelings. Teach each other your hobbies and the results will be amazing.

Disliking his family

It’s really one of the worst mistakes a new wife can make. There is no sense to dislike his family since they are the people who brought up your spouse. Only due to them he is the man you fell in love with. Only due to them he has such a character, manners and life views. If you love him, learn to respect his family.

Don’t make an enemy of your husband’s mom, dad, his sibling or his best friend. Remember, he loves his family as well as his friends and even though he might side with you if there’s a conflict, you must avoid making this mistake. Moreover, do not try to limit the time he intends to spend with them. They are an important part of his life, thus you have no moral right to forbid him to see his family. To defuse tension, invite your own parents. In such a big company, your chances to have a conflict with his mother are minimal.

Be kind and polite to his family and try to love them all. They will definitely love you and appreciate you for it. Moreover, you can find much in common with his mom. They say that men get married to women who resemble them their moms. So, why not make use of it?

Begrudging your husband time with friends

I know you want to spend more time with your sweetheart as a new wife, but don’t begrudge him time with his buddies. It’s important that you spend quality time together, but you should also spend some time with your friends. I always try not to dissolve in my relations. Even being married, you should have some private space. When your husband goes out, just make plans of your own and have fun too. I like to use this time for my skin and body treatment. When I am alone at home nobody bothers me or mocks at my green face with cucumber mask. When my husband spend time with his friends, I can accomplish those procedures that I don’t want him to observe. For example, it’s a great time for waxing, applying masks, manicure and pedicure or dyeing my hair. Only imagine, he comes back home and sees you refreshed, beautiful and charming. As a variant, I use this time to visit my parents and meet my friends. I know, it sounds weird, but other people only enrich your life and help to keep relationship stronger. You will have more topics to discuss and to lough at. It’s always a great idea to take a break in your own communication. Thus, the next time that he makes an appointment with his buddies, wish him to have lots of fun.

Forgetting about your friends

When it comes to friends, a marriage is not a reason to give up your close friends. You need them and they need you. I had a close friend who forgot about our friendship after she got married. Now, when she is in the process of divorce, she calls me and wants to be my best friend again, but I actually don’t want to have such friend though I wish you all the best. Do not make such an irreparable mistake and try to remember when you meet your friends last time. I think it’s high time to call them. If your friends are also married, you will have much in common. It’s so cool to discuss your husbands, secrets of good relations and the changes in your life. Your friends are the people that will help, support and give advice no matter what. Don’t neglect them, they don’t deserve it. I used to meet my close friends once a week. It’s enough to keep in touch and be aware of their lives. Sometimes we have double dates and it is especially funny! So, don’t forget about your friends and make time to see them once in a while.

Now you have it, some of the most common mistakes new wives make. Which of them did you make as a new wife? Do you know any other mistakes new wives make?

Safe and Unsafe Foods for Guinea Pigs

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 23 Nov 2014 12:58:00 -0800

It’s important that every guinea pig that you raise have its own bowl of vegetables each day. You need to make sure that you offer a variety, though. This is your only way of ensuring that your guinea pigs have all their nutritional needs met. Plying your poor guinea pigs with the same food each day may keep them alive, but they won’t be healthy or happy.

Reasonable variety will save you money too; you won’t need to spend on the vitamin drops and other such artificial products that your guinea pigs will hate, anyway. Here are 10 best foods that you should feed your guinea pig and 10 that you never should. But be sure to consult your vet before feeding your guinea pig any new food.

Fulfill your cavy's basic needs for nutrition and health

Water: Guinea pigs, like dogs and cats, need a steady supply of fresh drinking water at all times. It isn’t a good idea to simply leave a dish of water in your guinea pig’s cage, though. Cavies aren’t known for their cleanliness. They quickly get any open dish of water dirty. It would be a better idea to get a guinea pig water bottle. Your guinea pig will soon learn to get a little water whenever it needs it.

Hay: Guinea pigs are more like cows than other rodents – they are grazers. They need access to plenty of hay to chew on and to nest in. Their digestive systems are designed to process fibrous hay and cannot function adequately without a good supply. Whatever other food you give your guinea pigs, it’s the hay that gets the rest of their food through their digestive systems. Unless you have a baby guinea pig or a pregnant one, you should make sure that you don’t bring in alfalfa hay. The high levels of calcium found in this type of hay harms adult guinea pigs that aren’t pregnant or nursing. It’s easy to find hay pellets made of the right kind of hay at any pet store.

Make sure that your little guineA pigs get all the vitamin C that they need

The guinea pig’s body is unable to synthesize its own vitamin C, just like humans and many other mammals. Without adequate vitamin C in the diet, guinea pigs can come down with a serious disease called scurvy. While you could easily get a vitamin C dietary supplement at any pet store, guinea pigs usually dislike the taste. Whether you get your vitamin C in tablet form or liquid form, adding it to your guinea pig’s water will put them off dinking it altogether. It’s a much better idea to simply feed your guinea pig all the vitamin-rich foods that it needs.

For vitamin C, leafy greens are the best idea: Parsley, mustard greens, lettuce (but not iceberg lettuce), turnip greens, kale, plantain, cauliflower and cabbage are all excellent sources of vitamin C. Having a wide variety of foods to eat can keep your guinea pig happy and occupied, too.

You have many fruits to choose from, too: strawberries, oranges, raspberries, blueberries, watermelon, papaya and mango are all rich in vitamin C. Guinea pigs love the taste of these fruits, too.

Carrots are good, but not every day

Guinea pigs don’t do well when they are fed foods with high sugar content. It isn’t enough to keep processed foods out. Vegetables like carrots that come with high sugar content are only good as occasional indulgences. Since all fruits have high sugar content, they should also be seen as occasional treats rather than daily staples.

For your guinea pig's daily diet, choose the following:

Baby sweetcorn: Your guinea pigs can get one or two sweetcorn pieces each day. Guinea pigs enjoy them best when they are fresh and crunchy.

Tomato: Guinea pigs love all kinds of tomato – cherry, Roma, grape etc. They are great for vitamin C. You should make sure that your guinea pigs don’t get more than the equivalent of a quarter of a regular tomato each day, though.

Parsley: While guinea pigs love crunchy parsley, you should make sure that they get no more than an inch-long segment each day.

Romaine lettuce: Guinea pigs can only handle a small quantity each day. They can get kidney stones with any more than a fragment each day.

Peppers: Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C and guinea pigs relish them. It’s a good idea to bring in as much variety as possible. Buy them in every color that you find – orange, yellow, red and green, but make sure you buy organic foods.

It's also important to know what not to give your Guinea pigs

The guinea pig’s system is nothing like what humans have. Just because you enjoy a food, doesn’t mean that your guinea pig will relish them. Even if it does like them, some foods that are perfectly harmless to humans can be toxic to guinea pigs.

Animal products (dairy, eggs, fish and meat)
Chocolate
Popcorn
Potatoes (potato skins and eyes are toxic to cavies)
Pickled vegetables
All nuts, seeds and lentils (even peanut butter)
Carbonated drinks, tea, coffee and alcohol
All baked goods
Commercially grown flowers with poisonous pesticides (pesticide-free garden flowers are okay)
Anything with large seeds is a choking risk

The secret to raising a guinea pig is to understand that these are a completely different species. These dietary requirements might appear to be excessive. Many of these requirements, though, apply to dogs and cats, too. Guinea pigs are actually low-maintenance. Visit your vet and he/she will tell your cavy’s basic needs for nutrition and health, and help you to raise the healthiest guinea pig.

Source:http://pets.amerikanki.com/

The one Band Workout

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 13:00:00 -0800

Fitness on the road used to be a tricky proposition for me. My business trips were always marked by bad food, late night nights and full-on slothdom during hours of downtime. Then I would get home and complain about how crappy I felt. (Errmmm, not super mysterious why.)

That is, until I consciously started making choices about what I wanted to eat and drink — the same rule applies as does at home: Do I really want that? The answer can be “yes” — and treating fitness as a non-negotiable part of the adventure.

Without fail, I now make it a point to drop into a gym I’ve been wanting to check out (like John Broz’s in Vegas), or I make my own fun. And ya know what? My travel workouts have been some of the best I’ve ever had. It’s all in the approach.

During the non-snowy months, a 16-kilogram kettlebell takes up residence in the backseat of my car, all buckled up and ready for quick circuits during pit stops, but if I’m traveling by air, a 35-pound cannonball is a less feasible option.

Cue superbands.

I abhor checking luggage, so that’s not an option, and I’m not about to trade out room for a cute pair of shoes (yes, another pair is necessary) in my bag for a bunch of bulky fitness equipment, which is why a single superband usually makes the cut. Super thin and lightweight, it doesn’t take up valuable real estate, and it allows you to do row variations, which can be the trickiest to pull off when you’re outside of a gym setting. (But hey, you gotta row, man!)

Bonus: They’re cheap, too. And you can attach ‘em to almost anything.

Below is a workout designed by one of my personal favorite sources of fitness info, Robert dos Remedios (AKA “Coach Dos”). All you really need is a singlesuperband, but if you’ve got room for a jump rope, too, stick that in a secret pocket and you’re on your way.

THE ONE-BAND WORKOUT

30-40 seconds: Run Stairs or Do Air Squats/Squat Jumps
10 Pushups
10 Superband Rows (Each Arm)
10 Steps Spiderman Crawl Backward
10 Steps Spiderman Crawl Forward
10 Side Plank and Reach (Each Side)
50 Skips on a Jump Rope (Real or Imaginary)

Repeat for 3 rounds, resting as necessary between exercises or rounds.

Note: Coach Dos completes the entire thing in his 20-pound Hyperwear weight vest, but doing it unweighted — as I do — will provide plenty challenge enough for most people.

[If you're wondering why the video above looks so dang good, it's because videographer and creative force Frank Addelia was behind the filming of it. Frankie has an awesome series of exercise progressions on rings over at frankiesstore.com — check it out!]

The 7 Biggest Mistakes You Make Cooking Mashed Potatoes

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 12:30:00 -0800

Everyone looks forward to the sides at Thanksgiving — they're the best part, after all. But no one's going to reach for seconds of the mashed potatoes if they're gluey or cold or tasteless. Start out with your favorite recipe (this is a great one!), avoid these common pitfalls, and your guests will be begging you to make mashed potatoes every year.

1. Using the wrong type of potatoes
Choose higher starch potatoes (like Russets or Yukon golds) for the fluffiest, smoothest mash. They also absorb flavorings more easily. Waxy potatoes (such as red or white varieties) require more mashing to become creamy, which could lead to the dreaded "potato paste."

2. Not salting the water
When potatoes cook, the starch granules swell and absorb water and — if you've added it — salt. You won't need to add as much at the end, and your final product will be well-seasoned, not bland.

3. Starting them in hot water
Cover them with cold water, add salt, then heat to boiling and reduce to a simmer. If you start in hot water, they'll cook unevenly, with the outside falling apart before the inside is cooked.

4. Under-draining
Make sure to drain well after cooking. You want them to taste like potatoes, not water. If you'd like, gently reheat the drained potatoes on the stovetop to dry them out slightly before mashing.

5. Adding your flavorings straight from the fridge
Let your butter come to room temperature before melting it into the hot potatoes, then mash in the warm milk or cream. It will be absorbed more easily, and won't cool everything down.

6. Overworking
The swollen starch granules in your cooked potatoes are in a delicate state. Mashing them too vigorously — say, in the food processor — or for too long releases lots of starch, which can make them gluey and unappetizing. (Need help choosing the right tool? Our Institute experts weigh in.) Be gentle with your potatoes, and you'll be rewarded with light, fluffy spuds, and happy, well-fed guests.

7. Making them too far ahead
We're big fans of preparing food ahead of time, especially when there's lots of cooking involved, but potatoes don't take kindly to sitting around for long periods. Refrigerating them overnight sounds like a no-brainer, but they'll start to taste like cardboard. Want to make them ahead anyway? You can hold the prepared potatoes in a heat-proof bowl, with the surface covered with plastic wrap, over a pot of simmering water for up to 2 hours. If you have a slow-cooker with a Warm setting, that will work too. Fluff ‘em up again before serving.

6 Reasons Gardening Is Good for You

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 12:22:00 -0800

We know you’re obsessed with gardening, and frankly, that's a good thing. That summertime hobby can actually improve your mental and physical wellbeing. Here's how:

1. Burns calories
Good news for those who already spend hours planting perennials: Gardening is considered moderate- to high-intensity exercise. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, you can burn up to 330 calories during just one hour of light gardening and yard work — more than lifting weights for the same amount of time.

2. Lowers your blood pressure
Just 30 minutes of moderate-level physical activity a few times a week can prevent and control high blood pressure. In fact, gardening scored a place on the The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's recommendation list for battling high blood pressure.

3. Strengthens your immune system
While you’re outdoors basking in the sun, you’ll also soak up plenty of vitamin D, which helps the body absorb calcium. In turn, calcium helps keep your bones strong and your immune system healthy.

4. Relieves stress
While it may sound a bit hippie-dippie, Anna Ranieri, PhD, suggests practicing mindfulness while you garden to lower stress. Try to be present by listening to the trees and pausing to feel the soil between your fingers. (You're digging in the dirt anyway!)

5. Improves sex
Grab your guy while you're planting your tomatoes (or ask him to mow the lawn) because studies show that gardening actually boosts men’s stamina in the bedroom. In fact, any form of moderate exercise can help guys lower their risk of impotence.

6. Makes you happier
We already know you love pruning your rose bushes, but a study published inEvolutionary Psychology actually maps out the emotional impact of being around flowers. All participants smiled when they saw flowers, and researchers noted that flora had lasting positive effects on their moods.

Skin Treatments You Can Make Yourself

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 12:15:00 -0800

Shea Body Butter

Paola Parsons' at-home version blends shea butter, coconut oil, and fragrant essential oils. The recipe will leave you with almost a pint, which you can lather all over your arms and legs.

Lemon, Thyme, and Salt Body Scrub

Salt is a natural exfoliant you already have in your house. Mix it with fragrant thyme, almond oil, and lemon zest for your new go-to body rub.

Chocolate Oatmeal Face Mask

Leave this (it also includes cream and honey) on your face for 20 minutes for a take on a fun chocolate facial you'll find in some spas.

Cuticle Cream

If you're an avid gardener or spend your evenings washing dishes, your nails might be in need of a little TLC. Rub this on your cuticles for an extra bit of moisture. Gimme Some Oven blogger Ali suggests storing the cream in the fridge so it stays cool and fresh.

Herbal Foot Soak

Nothing beats a long pedi-bath after hours on your feet. This herbal-rich mix uses the soothing power of Epsom salt and essential oils. Once the mixture is complete, drop a few spoonfuls into warm water and enjoy.

Rose Milk Bath

Few things are more relaxing than an evening bath. Drop some of this homemade concoction (full of Epsom salt and soothing rose petals) into your tub for a night of pampering.

Sugar Lip Scrub

Using four natural ingredients, this exfoliating scrub is great for lips. Simply spread the mixture on your lips, rub them together, and rinse off. For extra protection, top them off with your favorite SPF chapstick.

Hand Lotion

Coconut oil is everywhere, and this organic, moisturizing mix is no exception. Add your favorite scent (you don't need to follow Elizabeth Morrow's tutorial exactly) for your very own one-of-a-kind solution.

Coffee Mud Mask

After you mix coffee, clay, and apple cider vinegar together, let the blend dry on your face for 10 minutes. After you rinse off the mask, smooth on your favorite SPF moisturizer so your skin doesn't get too dry.

Source:http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/

8 Genius Eyeliner Tricks Every Woman Needs to Know

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 11:59:00 -0800

1-Use a pencil liner as a guide for tricky liquid liners.

If your hand isn't steady enough for liquid eyeliner, line your eyes first with a pencil liner, and then trace over it with liquid.

2. Make a less pigmented eyeshadow more vibrant by covering your eyelid with a white eyeliner first.

This will help cancel out the color of your skin, creating an even base for the shadow and making the color pop.

3. Create your own custom eyeliner with a wet liner brush and eyeshadow.

The wet brush will darken the pigments a bit and create a sharp look like a liner.

4. Use white eyeliner as a brow highlighter for an instant eye lift.

Line below and above your eyebrows with a thick white liner, and smudge it out with a sponge brush to define your brows.

5. Simplify drawing a straight line by lining your eyes with dots first, and then connecting them.

Make sure your dots aren't too big. They should be the same size that you'd like the width of your line to be.

6. Fix smudges with a skin-colored eyeliner.

If you've smudged your liner a bit too much, draw over it with a skin-colored liner instead of wiping it off and starting over. This is also a great trick if you want to make the line super-sharp.

7. Get the perfect smoky eye by drawing a hashtag on the outer corner of your eyelid and smudging it out with the sponge.

Keep drawing hashtags and smudging it out to get a darker, smokier look.

8. Use mascara as eyeliner with a liner brush.

If you don't have any eyeliner, use some of the product on the brush of a mascara wand to line your eye.

Source:http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/

How to Shapen a Knife

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 10:44:00 -0800

As the holidays approach, our kitchen knives are about to get a pretty good workout chopping vegetables, cutting cheese, slicing bread or carving that glorious Thanksgiving turkey. It may seem counter-intuitive, but dull knives are actually more dangerous, as the added cutting pressure needed makes it far easier to lose control of the blade. Is it time to give your cutlery a tune up? A sharp knife is a chef’s best friend and keeping it that way is easier than one might think.

Honing vs. Sharpening

That metal rod that came with your knife set doesn’t technically sharpen blades, but used regularly is the most important tool in the block for keeping knives in top cutting form. Called a honing steel (or sometimes butcher’s steel), it is not used to sharpen a knife (which grinds away metal to a fine bevel), but to straighten it. As a knife is used, the edge becomes bent and mangled. Although it isn’t visible to the eye, the misaligned edge has the same effect as a dull edge. Frequent use of a honing steel will keep a blade in fighting condition without the need to sharpen.

How to Hone A knife

Get into the habit of honing knives often (at least every few uses if not before every use). Hold the honing steel upright with the tip pressed down firmly on a flat surface. Holding the knife by its handle, rest the blade against the steel at a 22 ½ degree angle. Why 22 ½? It closely matches the bevel on the edge of the blade and can be easily achieved by holding the knife at a 90 degree angle from the steel, halving the angle to 45 degrees and halving again to 22 ½. It won’t be exact, but think of it as though you are trying to slice off a very thin piece of the steel.

Gently drag the blade down and across the steel from handle to tip as though slicing a roast. Repeat five or six times and switch sides to hone the other side of the blade.

Sharpening

When does a knife need to be sharpened? When a honing steel no longer restores the edge to satisfaction, it may be time to put a new edge on that blade. A knife that gets frequent use may need to be sharpened several times a year, but it’s not usual to go a year or longer without the need to sharpen.

Some suggest that knife sharpening is best left to professionals and an expensive knife might be worth the safety and reliability of professional service. Knife sharpening services usually charge between five and ten dollars per knife, but the price may vary depending on the blade and your location.

Sharpening knives at home is more convenient and perhaps cheaper in the long run. There are several options for sharpening at home. There may not be one “right” choice, but consider the options before choosing the one that will work for you.

Pull-through Sharpeners

A pull-through sharpener is a handheld device with two “V”-shaped notches, one coarse, one fine. Placing the blade in the coarse V at a 90 degree angle and drawing it through from handle to tip will sharpen the edge and switching to the fine notch will refine the point. Pull-through sharpeners are fairly inexpensive and can be used without any special skills. For the casual user, this style has an ease of use, reliability and price point that make it a good choice.

Electric Sharpeners

Like pull-through sharpeners, a blade is drawn through notches to sharpen, but abrasive wheels will grind the edge more quickly than the manual pull-though. Electric sharpeners are extremely convenient, but can be expensive. A bad electric sharpener can ruin a knife quickly, so shop around before choosing one that will suit your needs.

Some whetstones are to be soaked in water before use, other stones require an oil lubricant and diamond sharpening stones can quickly sharpen an edge. With two or more surfaces ranging from coarse to fine on one or several stones, these abrasive blocks sharpen knives by dragging the edge of the blade over the surface at an angle (usually 20-25 degrees).

Using this traditional method can take some practice, but for enthusiasts it is the most reliable way to restore the edge of a knife. Not necessarily the best choice for the casual user, but for those willing to put in the time, the results can’t be beat.

A Word on Japanese Knives

Santoku knives have become more popular in recent years because of their hardness and fine edge. The style of knife does not necessarily reflect the metal or the edge type, but the blade edge traditionally has a bevel of 10 or 15 degrees (compared to the 20 or more degrees of classic kitchen knives) and sometimes a single bevel. Using sharpening equipment meant for standard blades can result in severe damage. Consult manufacturer recommendations before honing or sharpening non-traditional blades.

Source:http://blog.diynetwork.com/

The Ultimate Workout for Sexy, Sculpted Arms

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 03:21:00 -0800

OverviewWhether you’re rocking a swimsuit at the beach, a little black dress at a cocktail party or a tank top while running errands, you’ll want to show off your strong, lean arms. Toning your arms is beneficial to both your overall health and your fitness level because strength training boosts cardiovascular function, improves post-stroke motor-skill recovery and assists with arterial ailments (like peripheral artery disease).

Research also indicates that when many of the arm exercises shown here are done as part of a strength-training regimen, they actually help reduce muscle pain in the neck and trapezoids. With these exercises, you’ll sculpt and define your arms, reduce excess fat, become stronger for everyday tasks and keep healthy in the process. You’ll need two sets of weights, one lighter set (women five to 10 pounds, men 10 to 25 pounds) and one heavier (women 10 to 25 pounds, men 25 to 40 pounds). Do the exercises as presented in order here to prep your arms for each upcoming move, and be sure to rest your arms on alternate days.

1. Hard-Core Plank

Starting off your arm regimen with an intense static plank is a great way to get a full-body warm-up with a focus on your arms as well as your glutes and core. You’ll notice that you elicit support from your core through just about every arm exercise, and planks are no exception. Breathing deeply is also essential to your ability to do this particular plank hold well. Inhale through your nose at the start of each move and exhale through your mouth on exertion. HOW TO DO IT: Breathe in deeply and start in the same position as the top of a push-up, balancing on your feet and hands and keeping your body in a straight line from your heels to head. Exhale as you lower halfway down toward the floor, elbows bent in close to your ribs. Get as low as you can without compromising form. Make sure your body is a solid plank, pelvis is not sagging, shoulder blades are not splayed up or out and abs, arms, legs and glutes are strong and engaged. For an added challenge, lift your right foot four inches off the floor and hold for five seconds. Set your right foot down for a second, and then lift it out to the side at a 90-degree angle, still four inches off the ground. Hold it out at your side for five seconds. Return the leg back to starting lifted position, set the foot down and do the same series on left side. Start with two reps on each side and work up to four.

2. Stability-Ball Biceps

CurlsEvery good arm routine incorporates your biceps, which makes it important to engage them early on in your workout so they’re warmed up. Celebrity trainer Astrid McGuire loves stability-ball biceps curls as a starting point in a biceps routine. “It forces you to get full extension of the biceps,” she says, “and it multitasks the core, quad and glute muscles.” HOW TO DO IT: Hold the stability ball against a wall with your back without leaning too heavily against it and take your feet hip- or shoulder-distance apart. Roll your shoulders back and down throughout this exercise. In this standing position, hold your heavier weights, one in each hand, and keep your arms down at your sides, palms facing in toward your legs. As you squat down, bringing the ball down the wall with you, lift your arms into a biceps curl, rotating the hands so the palms face your shoulders. For added challenge, while doing the curl, lift your elbows away from the ribs, keeping your shoulders down and back and your neck long. Do three to five sets of 10 reps.

3. Concentration Biceps Curls

HOW TO DO IT: Sit on a flat bench or chair with your legs spread into a V shape. Grab one of your heavier weights with your right hand and rest your upper right elbow against your inner right thigh. Your right arm starts hanging straight down toward the floor. Your inner thigh supports your upper arm and helps isolate your biceps. Tighten your abs and straighten your back. Slowly curl the weight up toward your chest, then slowly lower the weight back to the starting position. Repeat for 10 reps before switching arms. Do three to five sets on each side.

4. Triangle (or Diamond) Push-Ups

Research has shown that triangle push-ups are some of the most effective exercises at isolating and working the triceps. HOW TO DO IT: Start in a plank position, but bring your forefingers and thumbs together on the floor so they create a triangle (or diamond) shape. From this position (either fully extended on the feet or in a kneeling plank), lower down into a low push-up. Your elbows should come out wide to the side, and your chest should lower directly down toward the triangle on the floor. Tighten your abs and glutes as you lower and lift back up and focus your breathing into the triceps area. Start with three sets of five and work up to three or four sets of 10.

5. Triceps Dips

HOW TO DO IT: Begin by sitting on the end of a bench and gripping the edge with your hands beside your hips. Your knuckles should be rolled forward and arms firmly alongside your ribs. Slowly drop your butt off the edge of the bench. Make sure your ankles are directly under your knees or further away from your buttocks and not underneath your hamstrings. Slowly lower down, keeping your back as vertical as possible. Do not dip too low, which can overextend or strain the front of your shoulders. Go as low as you can while still being able to lift yourself back up without pause. Engage your abs as you lower and lift. Inhale on the way down, exhale on the way up. Do these dips slowly in both directions -- two counts down and two counts up -- for about a minute. For an added challenge, when you’re in the lowered position, do tiny pulses (about an inch up and down) for the last 15 seconds of your minute.

6. All-Fours Triceps Extensions

The triceps kickbacks (or extensions) exercise is another one of the most effective ways to target the hard-to-isolate triceps muscles. You can do them in numerous positions, but for this version, you’ll start with all fours on the floor in order to better connect to your core and strengthen your back. For this exercise you’ll want to use your lighter set of weights. HOW TO DO IT: With the weights on the floor next to your hands, grab a weight with your right hand and line your right biceps up to your ribs, keeping it glued there throughout this exercise. Extend your right forearm back until your right arm is completely straight and parallel to the floor. Bring you forearm slowly back toward the shoulder, pivoting from the elbow joint. Repeat this for 10 reps. Switch sides. Do three to five sets of 10 on each side.

7. Chest Opener

Chest opener is a superb shoulder and upper-arm exercise that requires core stability and engages your inner-thigh muscles. This exercise stretches and opens the front of your shoulders and chest as it strengthens the shoulder-blade muscles, lats and triceps. Sebastien Lagree -- known for his hardcore Pilates-inspired strength-training program called the Lagree Method -- teaches the chest opener and says, “We do this to strengthen the postural alignment, open the chest and shoulders and as an overall arm toner.” HOW TO DO IT: With a weight in each hand, start in an upright kneeling position. Leaning slightly back with arms down at your sides, squeeze your glutes and inner thighs as you feel a slight stretch in your hip flexors. Face your palms behind you and press your straight arms back behind you. Stop when your hands are directly above your ankles. To open the front of the shoulders and chest area, imagine you are pinching a pencil between your shoulder blades. Engage your core and lengthen through the crown of your head -- and don’t forget to breathe! Do three to five sets of 10 presses.

8. Reverse Fly

The reverse fly is an excellent full-arm workout that focuses on your biceps, shoulders and lats. You can do this standing, kneeling down or straddling an incline bench with your face down. HOW TO DO IT: Starting from the kneeling position, hold a weight in each hand and roll your shoulders back and lift your buttocks away from your heels (about four to six inches). Squeeze your abdominal muscles in as you bring your arms into a soft-bent circle in front of your chest, just below shoulder height. Your palms should face inward toward each other. Slowly open your arms wide apart, with the movement coming only from your shoulder joints. Stop when your elbows are slightly behind your back. Resist as you bring the arms and hands back together, creating intensity in the movement. Do three to five sets of eight.

9. Double-Arm Salute

Double-arm salute is a great transitional exercise that works several muscles at once (the triceps, biceps, forearms, lats and shoulders) while the primary muscles (the shoulders) get warmed up and ready for more action. HOW TO DO IT: Double-arm salute is set up similar to a sitting shoulder press. Hold a hand weight in each hand and sit on a chair or flat bench. Plant your feet firmly on the floor about hip-width apart. Bend your elbows and raise your upper arms to shoulder height, bringing your arms into the shape of a football goal post. Pull your abdominals in and tuck your tailbone under so there is very little sway in the small of your back. Lean your chest forward, maintaining your goal-post shape, your arms now at an angle and your palms facing forward. Take your hands in toward your forehead, careful not to hit your head with the weights, and keep your elbows wide. Slowly raise your palms and arms out straight from your forehead. Your arms will be at an angle compared to the floor, but they’ll be straight out in front of you. Maintain strong wrists and do not lock your elbows. Slowly bring your elbows out wide again, as you bend your arms and bring the weights toward your forehead. Do three to five sets of eight.

10. Serve-a-Platter

Serve-a-platter is a traditional Pilates arm exercise that also engages the core, lats, shoulders, triceps and biceps. If you’ve done other upper-body, full-arm exercises prior to this, you’ll notice your shoulders engaging more to support you. HOW TO DO IT: Hold a weight in each hand and sit on a chair or flat bench. Plant your feet firmly on the floor about hip-width apart. Sit up tall, engage your core and lengthen through the top of the head. Do not allow your lower back to sway. Hold your arms up as though you are carrying a tray or platter in your hands, palms and underside of your forearms facing up. Your forearms should be parallel to the floor and your shoulders should be rolled back and down. Slowly lift your arms as if serving the tray or platter up and forward. Lift until your hands are just above shoulder height. Keep your wrists strong. Resist lowering the arms quickly and resist with your core. As you lower, bring your elbows to the point just before they go behind your back and lift back up. Do three to five sets of eight. Want to amp it up? When your arms have served the platter up, circle them up and outward back to your starting point. Exhale on each circle.

11. Shoulder Press

Strong shoulders support you through biceps curls, triceps exercises and suspension exercises such as the plank or push-up. They are the cornerstone of strength that all the other muscles in the arms pull from. Because shoulder presses emphasize your shoulder muscles, they complement work you’ve done on other parts of your arms. HOW TO DO IT: Hold a weight in each hand and sit on a chair or bench. Plant your feet firmly on the floor about hip-width apart. Bend your elbows and raise your upper arms to shoulder height so your arms form the shape of a football goal post. Pull your abdominals in and remove most of the sway from the small of your back. Make sure your head is in line with your neck, taking care not to dip the chin down or back. Don’t forget to breathe. Inhale as you slowly press your arms up over your head toward the ceiling until the hand weights touch slightly. Keep your elbows strong, but don’t lock them at the top. Exhale as you bring your arms and elbows down, ending with your elbow joints at shoulder height. Keep your legs and hips stable and firmly planted on the floor. Do three to five sets of eight.

12. Dumbbell Arm Circles

Arm circles are an intense way to engage your shoulders and create upper-arm definition. HOW TO DO IT: Sitting up tall in a chair or standing with feet shoulder-width apart and knees slightly bent, hold a weight in each hand and bring your arms to chest height, slightly wider than your shoulders. Don’t let your chin dip down or back. Engage your core to keep your pelvis stable. With both arms extended out and straight, slowly make small circles inward (about four inches in diameter). Do this for 15 seconds before reversing your circles. Do three to five sets of these.

13. Rotator Cuff In and Outs

The rotator cuff is comprised of the muscles and tendons surrounding the top of the humerus (the upper arm bone) that holds it in the shoulder joint. One of the most common shoulder injuries for people over 40 is a rotator cuff tear. Strengthening this area not only helps prevent this injury, but also sculpts and defines your shoulder area. HOW TO DO IT: Hold your weights at each side as you kneel on the ground. With your knees together, your thighs should be perpendicular to the ground. Lift the weights so your forearms are parallel to the ground, palms facing inward. Your elbows should be at a 90-degree-angle with your upper arms by your ribs. Rotate your arms slowly in toward each other, then rotate them slowly out to the either side of your torso without allowing your forearms to lift. Do not hunch your neck or shoulders to complete the rotations. If you find you are doing so, you may need to use less weight. Do three to five sets of 10. If kneeling puts too much pressure on your knees, do this on a bench or chair, making sure to keep your back strong and straight and to lengthen through the top of your head.

14. Reclining Chest Fly

The reclining chest fly is a great way to engage your chest and anterior axilla (or armpit) muscles. This little exercise also strengthens the rotator cuff, lats and biceps. You can do these from a reclining bench or lying on the floor. HOW TO DO IT: Lie on the floor with your knees bent and your feet firmly planted hip-distance apart and hold a weight in each hand. Bring your arms out to your sides so your body forms a T shape. Make sure your palms are facing up and your elbows have a soft bend in them, so your hands are angled off the ground about four inches. Without bending your elbows any further, bring your hands together directly over your chest, rotating from your shoulder joints. Imagine you are hugging a giant tree. Slowly lower back to the starting position, keeping the same bend in your elbows. Do three to five sets of 10.

What Do YOU Think?Have you tried this workout yet? What did you think of it? What are some of your other favorite arm exercises? How do you plan on showing off your newly sculpted arms? Tell us in the comments below!

Source:http://www.livestrong.com/

Is Coconut Oil Good for Frying on High Temperature Cooking?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 02:44:00 -0800

Coconut oil is made from extracting the natural oils present in mature coconut meat. Commonly used in Latin America and Southeast Asia, coconut oil can be either refined or unrefined, and it can be used for everyday cooking, including frying. Different coconut oils tolerate high temperatures better, so if you are frying with coconut oil, choose refined coconut oil.

SMOKING POINT

The smoking point of an oil is how high a temperature it can reach before the natural impurities in the oil begin to burn. The lower the smoking point, the lower the temperature the oil can be heated to before it starts smoking as a result of burning impurities. Higher smoke-point oils are better for high-temperature cooking, including deep frying. While refined coconut oil has a smoke point of 400 degrees Fahrenheit, unrefined coconut oil only has a smoke point of 320 degrees.

UNREFINED VS. REFINED COCONUT OIL

Coconut oil is made from dried coconut meat, called copra. Refined coconut oil has been filtered and bleached to remove any scent and impurities. It also has additives to reduce fatty-acid content and increase its shelf life. While you can refine coconut oil mechanically, it is more commonly done chemically. Unlike refined coconut oils, unrefined coconut oil, also called “virgin” coconut oil, is simply expeller-pressed. In some cases, virgin coconut oil can be made from fresh rather than dried coconut oil, and while it contains more impurities, it also preserves more of the healthy fatty acids.

FRYING TEMPERATURE

Having high smoke-point oil is important for deep frying and pan frying because proper oil temperature ensures a healthier fried food. While all fried foods will absorb oil, the right temperature will prevent burning, reduce the amount of oil absorbed and better preserve nutrients. Deep frying and pan frying require an oil temperature of 325 to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, making refined coconut oil the best option for these cooking methods. For stir frying, you can have temperatures lower, as low as 284 degrees, so you can use either refined or unrefined coconut oil.

HEALTHY FATS AND COCONUT OIL

Coconut oil is rich in medium-chain triglycerides, which are made up of healthy fatty acids. These fatty acids are mostly lost during the refining process, but they are present in unrefined coconut oil. This means that the fat content of unrefined coconut oil may prove beneficial. A 2008 issue of the “American Journal of Nutrition” contained a study that found that a diet high in medium-chain triglyceride rich oils, like coconut oil, helps improve overall body-weight levels and increased fat loss when compared to olive oil. Researchers concluded that because of the strong weight- and fat-loss benefits of medium-chain triglyceride oils, even a small change in oil intake could be helpful with increasing weight loss.

Expensive Baby Monitors Give False Reassurance, Researcher

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 21:36:00 -0800

Monitors meant to reassure parents that their sleeping babies are still breathing are "smarter" than ever — but the devices are still not proven to keep little ones safe.

Thus, any peace of mind brought by these monitors, which can cost several hundred dollars, is false reassurance, according to a new article in the journal BMJ.

New monitors, marketed by startups such as Owlet and Sproutling, are sold as consumer devices and not medical devices. This distinction means they don't have to go through testing to prove that they really keep babies safe. And studies of at-home monitoring in the 1980s and 1990s found no evidence that tracking a baby's pulse or breathing could prevent sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), which is the sudden, unexplained death of an infant, usually during sleep.

"They just don't work," said David King, a lecturer in pediatrics at the University of Sheffield in England who authored the new article. [7 Baby Myths Debunked]

SIDS fear

For parents, SIDS is a terrifying prospect, particularly because there are no clear answers as to what causes it. The diagnosis is made when an autopsy, review of the death scene and medical investigation provide no answers as to why a baby younger than age 1 died. The vast majority of SIDS deaths occur before 6 months of age. The current best understanding of SIDS suggests that abnormalities in the regions of the brain that control breathing may put babies at risk of not waking up or shifting positions if their oxygen intake is insufficient.

About 2,000 infants in the United States die of SIDS yearly, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That makes SIDS the leading cause of death among infants between 1 month and 1 year old. Nevertheless, SIDS is very rare: Data show that 53.9 babies per every 100,000 live births die of SIDS, according to CDC data. This translates to 0.054 percent of infants.

Monitoring baby

Devices that monitor babies' vital signs while they sleep have been around for decades, but the newest generation of these devices promises more ease and convenience. Owlet, for example, is developing a socklike pulse monitor that syncs to parents' smartphones. (The monitor is not yet on the market but can be preordered for $250.) Sproutling uses an ankle monitor to sense a baby's heart rate, skin temperature and motion, and promises to let you know "if your baby is sleeping soundly or if something is wrong," according to the product's website. Sproutling's monitor is likewise available for preorder for $259.

The marketing for these products does not refer to SIDS, but rather states that the devices watch for changes in heart rate or temperature.

"They have to tread quite a fine line," King said. As nonmedical devices, the monitors can't be marketed as preventing a medical condition, including SIDS. However, the language used to market the monitors plays on SIDS fears, King said. Even medical-grade monitoring does not appear to protect against SIDS. A major study of more than 1,000 infants, published in the Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences in 1988, found that instances of slowed heart rate and interrupted breathing during sleep are common in even healthy infants, and that most of these abnormalities vanish before the babies reach the ages during which SIDS peaks — between about 2 months and 4 months old. Thus, events that may cause at-home monitors to alert parents to potential danger are not linked with SIDS.

As a result of this and other similar research, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends against at-home SIDS monitoring.

However, the makers of the next-generation monitors defend their products.

"I have hundreds of comments from Owlet testers, and none of them focus on SIDS," Kurt Workman, founder and CEO of Owlet, wrote in a statement to Live Science. "They just want to know if something is wrong."

The current product is not a medical device, Workman said, but the company is working on another monitor, for which it will seek Food and Drug Administration approval, Workman said. Monitors tested in the 1980s and 1990s required multiple sensors and wires, and parents often gave up on using them out of frustration, he said.

"We are in a new era with new possibilities, and shouldn't hold ourselves back because of the constraints we had 30 years ago," Workman said.

Sproutling, which makes a fitness-tracker-type monitor that can collect data on babies while they're asleep and awake, did not respond to Live Science's requests for comment.

The recommendation against using these types of monitoring devices to keep babies safe from SIDS may be discouraging to parents who hear constant warnings about SIDS danger. First, King said, parents should remember that the "vast majority of babies are healthy and fine," and speak to their doctors about any concerns.

Second, parents and caregivers should follow the recommendationsproven to reduce the risk of SIDS, King said: Place babies on their backs to sleep, avoid bed-sharing, keep soft bedding out of cribs and don't smoke.

This " sexually Enlightened R&B Song" Is a hilarious Must-Watch

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 20:59:00 -0800

Mood music is an easy way to set the scene of some serious romancing. The only issue is that a lot of these so called seductive tunes are based on the annoying idea that sex is all about a man's pleasure. Thankfully, the geniuses behind College Humor's " Sexually Enlightened R&B Song" decide to fix that glaring injustice with this slow jam parody.

The black-and-white effect. The singer trying to hit those Mariah notes. The pointless sunglasses. It's all just so perfect! Notice how different this is from typical sex music. He's putting just as much emphasis on the woman's pleasure as he does his own! If only we could broadcast this on a projector that happened to be visible to men everywhere.

The point of sex is, as our star so insightfully sings, "doing each other with reciprocity." Play this on repeat to create a sex-positive atmosphere, then go get it on with someone who's all about being freaky on both your terms.

Are you laughing out loud at your desk or what? All jokes aside, what do you think of the video's message?

Trio the floral fantastic( without looking mumsy!)

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 13:25:00 -0800

All the celebs are wearing florals this season, but how do you wear this trend without looking mumsy?

The key is in the styling! Mix florals with edgy accessories to bring your look bang up to date- and keep the shapes modern – jeans, fitted skirts and accessories – avoid those baggy shapeless dresses!

Here are some of my favorite florals for this season – which do you like?

Floral bow scrunchie:

Floral pencil skirt:

And if you're feeling flushed, how about an Alexander McQueen floral dress:

Should I use moisture under my foundation?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 12:46:00 -0800

I could be worrying about world peace. But no, I am far too shallow for that. My question is, should I use moisturiser underneath my foundation? It’s a question which has bugged me for literally years. I know, I need to get out more!

About seven years ago I had a make over at the Bobbi Brown counter in Selfridges in London. It was then that I was recommended to not use moisturiser underneath my foundation. Although I never really understood why not?

Now, the challenge for any busy mother and career women is to be able to have immaculate make up, by the end of the day – without resorting to any touch ups. Therefore, the last thing you want to happen to you is your foundation sliding off – I’ve never really seen this happen to me. (To be fair, I actually have to wear foundation before it can slip off!)

Part of me has always been keen to wear moisturiser beneath my foundation (on the few times I do wear foundation), as my moisturiser has added sun protection in and my foundation rarely does. Consequently, I was delighted to hear from a beauty consultant on the clarins counter, that I should moisturise before putting my foundation on. Younger teenage skin, which is prone to spots, may like to opt not to put the moisturiser on first as this can make the skin even greasier. In fact, that’s one of the arguments against moisturiser before foundation – it can make your skin greasy.

Anyway, it appears that as you get older that moisturiser plus foundation is very much the order of the day. However, the golden rule is you need to moisturise and then let the moisturiser sink into your skin, BEFORE putting on your foundation. That’s right, you need to leave 10 mins or so between your moisturiser and then putting your foundation on. This stops the foundation from blocking your pores (because the moisturiser is there first!), and helps prevent the foundation slipping off during the day.

I don’t really have a spare extra 10 mins between moisturising and using foundation – so I tend to just make do with tinted moisturiser and powder.