A Simple Guide to Buying Bedding

Posted on November 27, 2007 by April

As with most things you buy for your home, you will need to think about comfort, style, comfort, cost and of course style when selecting bedding.  You’d think it would be quite simple.  What’s difficult about bedding I hear you ask.  But when you consider that there are blankets, bedspreads, comforters, sheets and pillowcases suddenly you head will start to ache.

Think: integrated.

Like other furniture for your home, bedding will need to compliment each other.  Think of it as creating a meal.  Some foods go great with each other whilst other combinations could only be stomached by pregnant women!

Some people have a natural sense of style and will select items that go great with each other.  Luckily those of you who aren’t naturally gifted in this department as long as you follow a few simple guidelines.

First of all think about colour.  Don’t simply look at colours in isolation.  In other words, think about how it will fit into the entire colour scheme of your room.  Colours can leap out at you or sit quietly depending on the shade and intensity.  Some colours will be bright and vivid whilst others will be natural and muted.  Decide what type you like and stick to it.  A muted russet will look horrific next to screaming pink.  Also think about what colour you want to dominate a room.  You may just want whites and creams with the occasional splash of colour.  Alternatively you may have a more bold and vivacious sense of style.

Pattern can really make or break bedding.  Some patterns such as op art from the ’60s can make you feel dizzy, whilst natural forms can make you feel peaceful.  Think about what emotions you want to create with your patterns.

Luckily many shops sell sets of bedding which are designed to go together and suit any taste.  Of course, you will need to think about what type of bedroom furniture you have and what size of bedroom you own.  If you live in a Georgian property with high ceilings then you may want to look for natural, heritage colours.  Whereas if you have a contemporary loft apartment you can afford to go for something a bit more cutting edge and daring.

You also need to be practical because there are lots of people who have allergies to such things as dust mites and fleas.  Yes that’s right, you might have a flea allergy.  If you have fleas in your bed you will need to use certain products to get rid of them.

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How to Avoid the Jitters Associated with Coffee

Posted on November 27, 2007 by April

So many people who feel over-worked or stressed turn to coffee for an energy boost.  But is this the best option?  The caffeine in coffee often makes people suffer from the “jitters” so they’re now turning to other drinks instead.

Yerba Mate

Yerba mate (pronounced yerba-mateh) is believed to be another alternative.  The leaves of the Yerba Mate’ tree are dried along with some of the twigs. After the leaves are dried they can be steeped in hot, not boiling, water. The taste is similar to green tea with a more herbal, bitter flavor.

What is Yerba Mate?

The Yerba mate tree is found in South America and is part of the holly family.  It has long green leaves, whitish flowers and bears a small red berry.

Health Benefits of Yerba Mate’

If you take a daily multi-vitamin you may want to consider taking Yerba Mate instead as it is packed with loads of vitamins and minerals such as A, B1, B2, B3, B5 and C, potassium, magnesium, iron, sodium, and phosphorus.

Caffeine is in Yerba Mate’

OK, so there’s caffeine in Yerba Mate but it’s been found that people who are sensitive to caffeine are not so with Yerba Mate’ even though it does have caffeine in it.

Mate’ also is easier on the stomach then coffee and some teas. This added with all the nutrients it has makes it a great alternative to coffee beans.

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Plus Sized Teens Can Wear Fashionable Clothes Too

Posted on November 16, 2007 by April

Teenage girls are pretty much obsessed with two things:  boys and fashion.  The latter they spend as much as mum and dad’s money as the can on.  The love to go out with their friends to the local shopping mall to see what the latest trends are.  Unfortunately many teenage girls feel left out simply because they are plus sized.  They find that buying a basic pair of jeans can be a struggle, let alone anything cutting-edge.

Despite many fashion outlets cater for plus-sized adults, younger people have been a bit over-looked until recently.  You have always liked Japanese clothes but they might not fit you.

Because clothes manufacturers have woken up to the fact that teenagers have so much spending power, they are now starting to cater for the better.  Because image is so important to people of all ages and sizes, clothing for plus sized teens are now trendy as well as well-fitted.

Big bold flowers often appear on adult plus sized clothing, if a teen doesn’t want this simply go online.

What Your Clothes Say About You?

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6 Styles of Swimsuit for the Plus-Sized Woman

Posted on November 16, 2007 by April

So you think only skinny girls can a wear a swimsuit?  Don’t be silly!  There are loads of swim wear to be bought that will look great on any figure.  Even if you are a bit more curvy.  They aren’t those ugly designs that shops used to sell years ago either.  They are fashionable and very flattering.

Not all swimsuits are equal.  There are a number of different styles, which as a plus sized lady, you will want to look out for.

  1. Skirtini Swimsuits –  These are really popular swimsuits.  They come in one piece or two and look just like a stylish dress you’ve put on for the beach.  Some even come with a tummy slimmer and waist minimizer.  Of course, they come in various colours and you can even adjust them to make them look shorter or longer.
  2. Basic One Piece- There is a number of different styles to choose from.  Normally they feature wide shoulder straps and foam bra pads for some extra support.  Most types contour to the shape of the legs so they appear slimmer. Some even come in exotic designs or colors.
  3. One-Piece Swim Dress – If you prefer to keep covered up and make your body appear slimmer then check this swimsuit out.  It comes with a fashionable skirt attached.  If you want to cover your stomach and thighs, the then swim dress would be a perfect choice.
  4. Jogger Swimsuits – You still might not feel comfortable wearing a swimsuit or perhaps you want to enjoy some fun in the water.  The jogger swimsuit is the ideal choice.. It comes with a nylon/spandex tank top with built in bra foam cups and swim shorts.
  5. One Piece Boy Short Swimsuits – Don’t fancy showing off too much skin?  That’s fine.  These swimsuits basically look like a tank top with shorts but is actually all one piece.
  6. Two-Piece Swimsuits – Are you a bit more confident about your body?  Then show it off with a sexy 2-piece swimsuit.

Swimsuits have a knack of either making you feel confidents or embarrassed.  So whether you want to cover up or show off your assets you’ll find a swim suit that will make you feel comfortable about your body.

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How to Buy Maternity Wear for Plus Sized Women

Posted on November 15, 2007 by April

Even for slim pregnant ladies it can be tough to find stylish clothes during pregnancy.  So how to plus-sized women who are pregnant find fashionable clothes that doesn’t include big woolly sweaters.

Surprisingly it’s not as difficult as it might once have been.  The fashion industry has increased their collections to include maternity wear for plus sized ladies.  Some designers realize that plus-sized women want to feel as special as anyone else.

Some online shops even have whole sections dedicated to the larger pregnant lady.  Plus they’re far from being frumpy and boring.  They’re actually very stylish.

Banished are those hideous stretch pants and tent-like dresses of yester year.  Instead you’ll find lacy tops, summer dresser and other elegant clothes including evening gowns.

If you have a special occasion to buy an outfit for don’t panic.  There are even wedding dresses and dresses suitable for wedding guests.

Not only that but there’s swimwear to choose from if you fancy spending time by the pool.

Even for everyday wear you’ll want to dress nicely.  There are stretchy tops and maternity trousers which will make you feel good about yourself.

Have a look online and see what you can find.  You’ll be spoilt for choice whilst browsing all those wonderful collections.  There are also bras and panties to complete your outfit.

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Solve Hormonal Problems with Progesterone Creme

Posted on November 1, 2007 by April

Progesterone creme is something that I have used in the past and I highly recommend any woman who suffers from hormonal imbalances to seriously consider using it. The majority of women who put up with hormonal acne, period pains and PMS will take prescribed medication from their doctors which can have side effect.

The problem is that most hormonal problems are caused by women having too much estrogen in their system and not enough progesterone. By giving your body the progesterone it needs you’ll be able to say goodbye to your problems.

For more info on natural progesterone crème visit Oasis, they are listed on John Lee MD’s site which gives you peace of mind that you are getting good quality.

NB please always consult a doctor as there may be other health issues involved.

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Pirates of the Caribbean at World’s End

Posted on October 23, 2007 by April

At World’s End is the third part of the Pirates of the Caribbean movie series. The main characters are brought back to life by the original stars from the first part of the series.

Johnny Depp, Orlando Bloom, Keira Knightley and Geoffrey Rush are back to play the roles that have made the movie series as popular as it is. Johnny Depp brings a new twist to his role of Captain Jack Sparrow, the charismatic pirate.

He keeps the audience on the edge of their seats, wondering whether or not he’s playing the role of good pirate or bad pirate. In the last movie of the series, Jack Sparrow surprises everyone by coming back from the dead in time to embark on this new treacherous sea faring journey.

Orlando Bloom is back in his role of Will Turner, the blacksmith apprentice who set out on the journey of a lifetime in the first part of the series, where he found out that his father was an infamous pirate. He continues to bring the same precise sword fighting we saw in the first two parts of the Pirates of the Caribbean series.

Keira Knightley plays the beautiful Elizabeth Swann, who turns from a fragile maiden character to a fierce fighter in the last two movies. She joins the crew in the last movie to embark on an action-filled adventure to save Captain Jack Sparrow from his ultimate fate.

Geoffrey Rush returns in his role of the famous evil-minded pirate, Captain Barbossa who we were introduced to in the first movie. He continues his role as Hector Barbossa in the last movie, but has switched from fighting Jack Sparrow, to aiding in his rescue. He brings the same spicy characteristics of an evil pirate in this movie even though he’s more of an ally than an enemy.

Davy Jones, the evil supernatural pirate who walks the bottom of the sea searching for souls to bring to his phantom crew, returns in this movie to continue to wreak havoc for the main characters.

He is played once again by the British actor Bill Nighy. He plays the role well, making the audience believe he truly is an evil phantom pirate who will stop at nothing to get what he wants.

The four main characters meet up with some of the other ongoing characters we saw in the previous movies, such as Norrington (Jack Davenport), Governor Weatherby Swann (Jonathon Pryce), Bootstrap Bill Turner (Stellan Starsgard) and the members of the Black Pearl ship’s crew.

This movie brings more action and adventure to the big screen than we ever saw in the first two movies put together. The plot flows well throughout the movie and guarantees the audience will be on the edge of their seats until the ultimate climactic end we’ve waited to see since the first movie came out.

This pirate adventure leaves all of the old pirate movies in its dust with its awesome special effects and costumes coupled with the talents brought by actors to their roles in this movie.

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Buying Gift Baskets for Women

Posted on October 4, 2007 by April

Perhaps she loves to curl up with a romance novel.  Or drool over delectable chocolates.  Maybe she’s a wine conosur at heart.  Whatever her likes and tastes, there’s a perfect gift basket awaiting her.

Home Spa – If she complains at not being pampered then gift basket filled with quality bath oils, scents and soaps will help create the perfect home spa.  Indulge in that long hot soak while using any of many fine ointments, then enjoy a soothing moisturiser at the end. A bath product gift basket is the perfect choice to celebrate that Sunday pampering yourself.

Coffee - Coffee may not be the first on your list of gift ideas however by selecting fine coffees such as a delicate Viennese to robust French.  Include some raw sugar or quality Belgian chocs for extra indulgence..

Tea - Maybe she prefers tea?  A years supply of teas from around the world will be enough to whet anyone’s appetite.  Choose from Chamomile, Earl Grey, Assam or even Rooibos.  Top it off with a special tea spoon or strainer. Pack the tea in tins that will last a lifetime.

Flowers - What women doesn’t like flowers.  Whether it a large bouquet designed to impress or a simple bunch of wild flowers such as daffodils or daisies for a bit of Jane Austen romance.  The basket itself can be an important part of the total package, delivering that bounty of colour in a traditional wicker or a contemporary porcelain container.  Maybe there are some flower-themed clean red widgets.

Wine - Wine is always much appreciated.  Decide on a theme.  It may be reds of France or whites of California.  Perhaps it could all be fair trade organic wines from around the world.  Pick a single standard-sized bottle to form the centrepiece, or arrange a series that can be tried one per month. Surround the wine with fine cheese or gourmet crackers. A winning combination!

Jewellery - You’ll certainly be remembered for this gift basket – one full of jewellery.  You might choose a single diamond ring for the centre piece, surrounded by love letters and poems.  Or, you can scatter a dozen pairs of earrings among the straw that reminds you of your first trip to that Bed and Breakfast in the country.

Candles - Scented candles will go down a treat.  Just make sure you really bush the boat out and include an array of unusual candles with natural scents of vanilla or citrus.  Surround the candles with chunks of wrapped chocolate and all the senses will come alive.

It doesn’t matter what occasion you’re needing to buy a gift for, perhaps a promotion at work or simply saying thank you, gift baskets can be whatever you want them to be.  There are even people looking for bachelorette party gifts.

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Buying Chocolate Gift Baskets

Posted on September 29, 2007 by April

There’s no end to the varieties of gift baskets to choose from.  Bed and bath, wine, fashion, you name it.  It’s no surprise then to find that chocolate gift baskets are pretty popular.  Who doesn’t like chocolate?  The cacao plant has hundreds of compounds, many of which target the pleasure centres of the brain.

As with any other gift basket, the chocolate variety comes in a wondrous array of creations.  You may want to go for a more light-hearted, fun approach.  In which case selecting childhood favourites is a great idea.  Alternatively you may prefer a more grown-up assortment full of gourmet chocolates.

If you gravitate towards dark chocolate you’ll also be getting a load of healthy antioxidants.  Who says a chocolate gift can’t be good for you?! Dream about those intoxicating truffles?  The only downside is they’re unlikely to stay uneaten for any great length of time if other people are around.

Ready Made?

If you’re in a hurry or simply don’t know what to buy you can purchase a ready-made basket complete with chocolates and wrapping.  You may favour a set of gourmet chocolate-drenched cookies surrounding a centrepiece of to-die-for delectables. Or, you may enjoy a carefully arranged geometrical display of Swiss whites.

Pure Indugence

Does the person you’re buying for need a little bit of TLC?  Then go for the ‘Junk Food’ option.  It’s all about indulgence and not giving a stuff about anything.  Prefer an elegant hint that someone special has been thinking of you? Go for the Valentine’s Day-inspired chocolate mounds, surrounded by red heart-shaped paper messages.

Corporate Choccies

You don’t even have to buy a large gift basket, a tiny basket can be given to dozens of corporate business associates. Or select a huge, multi-chocolate array for that special person who just did you a great favour.  Worried that the receiver might actually get sick of the sight of chocolate?  Then mix the chocs in with nuts, fruits and even wine.

Whether your tastes run to a fine Ghiradelli dark or that whitest of superb Swisses, you’ll find an endless array of choices.  It doesn’t matter if the chocolates are intended as a gift to a close friend or for a corporate event, there’s a chocolate gift suitable for every occasion.  Chocolate is probably preferable to gift cards any day.  Tip:  if this is a Christmas gift, you should consider adding a christmas poem on the gift card for that something extra special.

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How to Care for Phalaenopsis Orchids

Posted on September 29, 2007 by April

Go into any shop that sells plants you’re more than likely to see the Phalaenopsis genus of orchids.  The main reason for this is that they’re very easy to care for.  Most orchids are thought to be very difficult to tend but the Phalaenopsis is an ideal for choice for most people.  Plus the flowers are simply gorgeous.

Light and Temperature

They like a little bit of bright light however if you place them in direct sunlight for even just a few minutes, this can damage their leaves.  They prefer light which has been filtered through curtains or outside trees because in the wild they grow on trees which provide natural shade.  If you put them in a south facing window, make sure they are shaded.

Phalaenopsis orchids prefer a warm climate where during the day temperatures are around 75-85F/24C-29C.  But they’ll do best if the night time temperature dips down to produce a 15-20 degree Fahrenheit difference, not too much more nor less. For areas where the summer nights can cool off to 45-55F (7C-13C), it’s best to keep them indoors or in a greenhouse.

Watering and Humidity

As with most orchids, Phalaenopsis like humidity levels to be around 60-70%  This is too humid for most humans so you can increase the humidity for the plant by using a humidity tray.  All this means is that you should place the pot on a tray of watered pebbles.  You can also use a mister to spray the plant.

Some orchids don’t like a lot of water however the Phalaenopsis is an exception.  Make sure that their roots are kept wet.  Make sure that the roots don’t dry out.  Normally watering the pot once a week is suffice.

Feeding and Potting

Feeding once per month with a high nitrogen fertilizer is ideal. Just dilute one teaspoon in a gallon of water and you’ll have plenty for weeks.

Use a medium-grade wood bark in the form of chips as a growing medium to provide support to the plant.  Re-potting is only needed every other year although it’s unlikely that you’ll need a larger pot as the roots generally grow upwards.

When the flowers die and drop off after three months, cut the stem back halfway.  It can take a year for them to re-grow however these plants often produce blooms twice per year.

Provide simple care and you’ll be rewarded with huge flowers of pink, white and other colours.

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