December 31, 2010

7 Materials For Creating The Perfect Kitchen Countertop

The kitchen countertop has to be able to take a lot of abuse including the heat of pots, cutting and knives and abrasive cleansers. The ideal countertop should be able to stand up to heat and the sharp edge of a knife.

Let us take a look at 7 of the most popular kitchen countertop materials being used today:

Granite – A natural stone, granite is a popular choice for its classic beauty and durability. Granite is the hardest and densest of the natural stones. It can create a kitchen countertop that is extremely scratch resistant and can keep its luster longer than most materials. granite slabs are the most expensive of all kitchen countertop surfaces, although it is still considered a very practical material in that it is virtually indestructible.

Marble Another natural stone, marble is considered to be the height of elegance and will last longer than most kitchens. It is however, is very expensive and requires some care: acidic foods such as orange juice will etch the finished surface of a marble kitchen countertop.

Slate Because of it richness and beauty slate is usually used in interior applications such as kitchen countertops, bathroom sinks or fireplace surrounds. It can be used in either modern or traditional kitchens as well as in combination with marble. Slate is durable, strong, and can withstand hard use. It is less expensive than marble

Concrete This is one of the biggest trends in kitchen countertops today. It is a good look for clean, industrial and contemporary kitchen designs. Available in pre formed sections or poured and formed on-site. Concrete is a good material for unusually shaped counters. Concrete kitchen countertopsare expensive, require a sealant and must be treated with care. The countertop can crack if the concrete should contract. Concrete can be stained any color. The most popular color is a natural gray tone. The top layer can be finished as desired.

Corian A solid surface material that first became popular in the 1990s It is highly recommended by kitchen countertop experts. It is a totally manmade product and is not porous. As a solid surface it can easily be repaired if scratched or burned.

Stainless Steel Advantages include very hygienic, easy to clean, has ability to stand up to exteme wear and heat. Stainless steel can provide a great look for an ultra modern kitchen. Some disadvantages with stainless is that it can be noisy and that scratches can develop.

Tile Tile surfaces can be tough, hard-wearing, takes hot pans, heat and stain resistant as well as beautiful. There are many types of tiles including ceramic, porcelain, quarry, glass, natural stone and mosiac. Available in many colors, sizes and textures. It has good design flexibility. Tile can often be used for trim or backsplashes. The downside of tile is that the grouts can be easily stained. Also the tiles can become chipped or cracked. Read more...

7 Materials For Creating The Perfect Kitchen Countertop

The kitchen countertop has to be able to take a lot of abuse including the heat of pots, cutting and knives and abrasive cleansers. The ideal countertop should be able to stand up to heat and the sharp edge of a knife.

Let us take a look at 7 of the most popular kitchen countertop materials being used today:

Granite – A natural stone, granite is a popular choice for its classic beauty and durability. Granite is the hardest and densest of the natural stones. It can create a kitchen countertop that is extremely scratch resistant and can keep its luster longer than most materials. granite slabs are the most expensive of all kitchen countertop surfaces, although it is still considered a very practical material in that it is virtually indestructible.

Marble Another natural stone, marble is considered to be the height of elegance and will last longer than most kitchens. It is however, is very expensive and requires some care: acidic foods such as orange juice will etch the finished surface of a marble kitchen countertop.

Slate Because of it richness and beauty slate is usually used in interior applications such as kitchen countertops, bathroom sinks or fireplace surrounds. It can be used in either modern or traditional kitchens as well as in combination with marble. Slate is durable, strong, and can withstand hard use. It is less expensive than marble

Concrete This is one of the biggest trends in kitchen countertops today. It is a good look for clean, industrial and contemporary kitchen designs. Available in pre formed sections or poured and formed on-site. Concrete is a good material for unusually shaped counters. Concrete kitchen countertopsare expensive, require a sealant and must be treated with care. The countertop can crack if the concrete should contract. Concrete can be stained any color. The most popular color is a natural gray tone. The top layer can be finished as desired.

Corian A solid surface material that first became popular in the 1990s It is highly recommended by kitchen countertop experts. It is a totally manmade product and is not porous. As a solid surface it can easily be repaired if scratched or burned.

Stainless Steel Advantages include very hygienic, easy to clean, has ability to stand up to exteme wear and heat. Stainless steel can provide a great look for an ultra modern kitchen. Some disadvantages with stainless is that it can be noisy and that scratches can develop.

Tile Tile surfaces can be tough, hard-wearing, takes hot pans, heat and stain resistant as well as beautiful. There are many types of tiles including ceramic, porcelain, quarry, glass, natural stone and mosiac. Available in many colors, sizes and textures. It has good design flexibility. Tile can often be used for trim or backsplashes. The downside of tile is that the grouts can be easily stained. Also the tiles can become chipped or cracked. Read more...

November 07, 2010

My House Is Quiet - Too Quiet!

Do you dream of the moment when you can have a bath undisturbed, or go out somewhere (anywhere, you're not fussy!) without taking an hour to get everyone into the car? That time has come... you've got a weekend to yourself and... Instead, you can't decide what to do!

You want to make the most of it because, WOW, you don't get these so it's more important you make great choices now than ever!

You've waited so long for free time, you're not even sure what to do with free time now...


You decide, "I know I'll phone some friends and see what they're up to." Ah, reality hits; they've all got their own lives and you feel like the spare wheel.

You then think, "I know... I'll go and do the errands that I've been meaning to do for ages now." As you're racing around, what usually takes you 4 hours to get through is all over and done with in 45 minutes flat... and now what?

Mmmm... eventually you pluck up the courage to go and see a movie on your own. Gulp! You've scoffed the thought of it for years and yet you really get it now! So, you've lost yourself in a movie and managed to successfully kill a couple of hours. As you walk out the cinema doors, you feel quite awkward as you realise you've got no one to even talk about it with right now...

Yes, you're single... and yet with so much responsibility, it really doesn't count as the single you remember it to be.

And, what's worse, you've still got another two nights before the kids are home... what do you do?

I'm about to show you some techniques that really work to avoid you feeling completely overwhelmed by having 'nothing to do'.

I'll help you start discovering your passions again, and I'll help you become more confident in what it is YOU actually want to do!

Throughout the Program, I'll help you create rituals for yourself where you feel nourished and energised during your weekends without your children, so you're able to give them more when you've got time with them.

I'll spend the time with you to help you become comfortable with yourself - alone - and with friends. That you'll start enjoying adult time.

You'll learn how to stop pining, and what to do in its place that's not planning either.

Let's start with the first principle that applies here - and yet can be so hard to do!

We'll start with making the most of our time with and without our children.

As we started with, we have dreamed of having time to ourselves, but when it actually turns up, it's not as much fun as we'd imagined...

Very often, we've been giving to everyone else for so long we've forgotten what we enjoy, so when we're confronted with the option of choosing, without restrictions around us... it can feel very overwhelming!

It's almost too scary (and upsetting!) to have to admit that we can't remember what we really like any longer. The longer you've been serving your family, the harder this is to reclaim. Yet the longer you've been serving your family, the more important it is that you do reclaim this - and a good reason to do this is so you can live a more full example of who you are to your children.

Here's something really simple - and powerful to help... allow yourself to experiment. You're allowed to just try something out and if you decide you don't really enjoy that as much as you thought you might, that's great. Now you know!

Stop trying to get it ALL RIGHT - stop trying to please yourself so much. Allow yourself to feel that what you thought would be really great, didn't feel that wonderful.

If you'd dreamt of spending a few hours at a beauticians spa, and once you've spent the money, had the treatments, all you're feeling now is "Ah, nice but not great!", then know that next time, that's not really important and try something else.

It may take you a few months of trying things in your Child-Free-Weekends before you find something that can become part of your time-out ritual.

Creating a ritual for yourself is delicious. It gives you the opportunity to savour each moment without having to constantly be thinking of what's next...

We become so used to keeping things moving for you to slow down long enough to just relax and soak in a bath with candles, music and a long cold refreshing drink in hand... it's almost like sacrilege!

It's good for you to have a few things that become rituals so you don't feel that you have to have everything planned out, but you are also not at a loose end.

If you can start experimenting so you can build a ritual for yourself, you'll also allow flexibility to develop within this so you can include the unexpected invites that are bound to pop up.

It's also very encouraging for your friends and family to know you can enjoy having time on your own. It's very easy at times like this to 'burn out' your friends by needing them.

Friends love being around friends who want them - not need. There's quite a difference. While it's important to have great support during the major transitional phases that you go through, it's really good for you to enjoy your own company too.

* If you feel a little timid in your house alone, find creative solutions to the fear.
* If you avoid eating when the children are not at home, plan your meals in advance - even cook double and freeze so it's easy.
* If you have a tendency to become quite emotional, avoid alcohol. It's not the answer regardless of its short-term lubricating benefits.
* If you end in tears every time you watch movies, be selective what types of movies you'll get out and who you'll watch them with.
* Start making positive choices for yourself that leave you feeling lighter, brighter, and more hopeful of your future.

Most of all, when the children arrive home, don't tell them how much you've missed them. They need to know you're comfortable with and without them. It's important for them not to have to worry about you missing them when they're with your Ex. They want you to be okay too.

I really encourage you to take up my invitation to post a comment below or email me with your suggestions, ideas, or comments about what you've just read.

So many people have watched their lives bloom after getting help to become comfortable with a quiet home - I know YOU can too!

As I already mentioned, there's a lot more on this topic so I encourage you to enroll in my 'Routines That Rock' program where you'll gain more answers in greater detail.
Start today and receive the following:

* A series of videos with me walking you through each aspect of routines and making them work with your children and Ex.
* Worksheets to help you sort out what the best routine is for your family.
* A checklist to avoid items forgotten at handovers.
* And you get to ask me your routine-related questions throughout the program.

These are real answers to your Routine problems - and they can be solved today.

Had enough of feeling alone in your tears and heartache?

You only get to raise your children once - don't leave it to chance - your kids are worth it!

Warmest :o)

Jill Darcey.

*** Parenting with an Ex and struggling with Routines? What happens if I don't want to share my children with the Ex, especially because I don't trust them?! I can solve this problem for you in my Routines that Rock program!

*** Special Free Report Is it possible, that no matter how or why your marriage failed, the SECRET to finally getting on with your Ex could be... EASY? The Answer is 'YES!' Grab your free copy of Top 10 Co-Parenting Mistakes

*** Jill Darcey (Author, Parent, Founder & Speaker), a mother of three; thousands of hours in counseling and coaching; and more than a decade of Complex Family parenting. Jill has both experience and wisdom and has learned a lot of what does and doesn't work - and some of it the hard way!
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Bedroom Paint Colors Create Atmosphere in the Spring of 2010

There are many bedroom paint colors to choose from, so where does one begin?

Many times homeowners (and apartment dwellers) feel they should do all the other rooms in their home first before doing the bedroom because "no one sees the bedroom anyway."

And either way you are more comfortable with is fine, but you really owe it to your self to make the bedroom your own private sanctuary where you can recharge and relax, high on your decorating priority list.


After all it is the first room you see when you start your day in the morning and the last thing you see upon retiring at night.

Exploring the opportunities for bedroom paint colors are almost endless, but aim to create an atmosphere that is harmonious and comforting.

Inspiration can come from colors, textures and objects that invoke a feeling of calm and enhances a relaxed mood.

And what a better time than now to explore the color design trend of 2010 that calls for an aquatic and serene palette, especially if you are beginning new or adding to an existing scheme to provide a refreshing lift to the bedroom.

The best way to describe the key colors for this design color trend is aquatic, serene, zesty and exotic.

And while bedrooms can look great in deep vibrant colors, if you long for more of a peaceful and restful atmosphere, what better direction to turn but to the relaxing colors, turquoise, aqua and the deep blues of the ocean?

Turquoise is a combination of blues and greens and often thought of when envisioning tropical waters and is also an exotic gemstone known historically for its protective properties, while an aqua palette is composed of light and deeper blues.

Other serene colors from the 2010 line up and most suitable for bedroom paint colors might include lavender and deep yellows.
Lavender comes from the plant and known for its soothing properties.

Decorating with these cool colors of blues, greens and lavenders especially in lighter values can make a small bedroom appear more spacious and airy because the colors appear to recede visually.

And while these cool colors can be perfect for the bedroom because they lend themselves to restful sleep and relaxation, there is nothing wrong with the warmth and zest of a warm color palette can offer.

When you use them properly, warm yellows (just think forsythia) can be quite peaceful, and soft shades of peaches and pinks will create a soothing ambiance for your bedroom.

And lest we not forget, the neutral bedroom paint colors of warm gray and warm beige are also very soothing and quietly elegant and understated making them excellent choice for the bedroom.

Also they offer enormous flexibility for decorating since they go with everything, making it possible to make changes to your room on a whim for an instant update without having to repaint the whole room.

Since bedrooms are very personal allowing you to become even more expressive, once you select your decorating color palette, experiment with faux finishes choosing one that reflects your taste and compliments your furniture will give your walls an illusion of depth and dimension.

And while you are painting, don't forget the ceiling. Create a soft dimension to your ceiling using a color a shade lighter than the walls to make rooms with low ceilings to appear more spacious, and a dark shade if you want to draw a high ceiling down making the room more intimate.

It may not be any easier to leave the bed and get up in the morning but it will surely be pleasing to look at.
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June 28, 2010

10 Important Guidelines for Designing a New Kitchen

Here are 10 important guidelines for your kitchen design project.

1. For efficiency, the work triangle (the space between the sink, refrigerator, and stove) should measure 26’ or less with no single side longer than 9’, or less than 4’.

2. In kitchens smaller than 150 sq. ft., opt for at least 13’ of base cabinets, 12’ of wall cabinets, and 11’ of countertop. In kitchens which are larger, go with at least 16’ of base cabinets, 15 1/2’ of wall cabinets, and 16 1/2’ of countertop.

3. For convenience, plan work aisles to be at least 42” wide for one cook, and at least 48” wide in multi-cook kitchens.

4. Specify a minimum of 24” of counter space on one side of the sink and at least 18” on the other.

5. To create the most accessible landing for unloading groceries, allow at least 15” of counter space on the handle side of a standard refrigerator; on both sides if it’s a side-by-side model. Or include a landing area directly across from the refrigerator, but no more than 48” away.

6. For cleanup ease, install the dishwasher within 36” of one edge of the sink and allow for at least 21” of standing room next to it.

7. For microwaves and ovens, provide at least 15 “ of counter space nearby, at least 16” deep.

8. For optimum clearance, no entry, appliance, or cabinet doors should interfere with another.

9. For comfort and to help avoid repetitive-motion injury, plan for work counters of different heights; between 28 and 36” off the floor (easier for chopping and seated-use access), and between 36 and 46” for general tasks (higher counters accommodate taller cooks).

10. To install a cabinet unit above the cook top, make sure the clearance is at least 24” for a fireproof surface, 30” for an unprotected surface.

Designing a kitchen is as much a science as it is an art. Knowing the recommended measurements to use when planning the project can make all the difference in the final outcome.
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3 4 bed mattress

I was quite confused the other day when a young teenage customer stepped into my mattress store and asked for a 3 4 bed mattress. Upon more discussion, I discovered that he was shopping based on the shopping list his mother had written for him. Apparently, what he was referring to was a 3/4 bed mattress.

3 4 bed mattress is the mattress meant for Single Bed with the Size 3&340 X 6&346. This form of bed uses a mattress size 3"0 X 6"6with the Height: 3'4'' and the Width: 7'2'' plus Depth: 3'6". 3 4 bed mattress are meant for beds designed to accommodate active kids and limited room space. A sturdy steel tube profile ensures years of use. There are many different sizes that have been made throughout the years. A very common bed was referred to as the "3/4 bed". Many customers believe that their "3/4 bed" is a standard size. 3/4 bed is 48 inches wide by 75 inches in length. However, less then 20% sold in the market these days are actually 3/4 size mattresses.

From what I noticed, this young customer is buying the bed for his younger sibling. so I casually enquired to see if the purchase was for his younger sibling. He was surprised but was glad that I understood his needs. After assuring him that I will do my best to recommend him a good 3 4 bed mattress, he finally felt comfortable and confident to discuss with me.
So I took him around the store to help him check through the selections of 3 4 bed mattress which we have. I believed it was important for a customer to know the choices he has and how they cater to his needs before making a purchase. Thus we went through many choices.

As he was also looking for a bed alongside with the purchase, I showed him the sturdy yet elegant Carved Oak Single Bed Mattress. This Size 3&340 X 6&346 Carved oak single bed is equipped with carved lozenges, turned balusters and square peg joined legs and bun. These are vital features to look for when looking for a stable and long lasting bed. Carved Oak Single Bed uses a mattress size 3"0 X 6"6.

To be exact, the Mattress Size 3"0 X 6"6 must be installed on the bed with the Height: 3'4'', the Width: 7'2'' and the Depth: 3'6 to fit properly in the bed. This is not a problem at all as this is a very popular specification in the mattress productline. I slowly explained everything I could to him because I know this is the perfect bed for his active young sibling.

I know his mom sent him here as a form of learning experience, so I did my best to help him learn when he shops. I gave him a catalogue of the product discussed and suggested that he explained it to his mom or to bring her for the next visit to my store. I bid him farewell and I'm sure he will be back again with his mum to browse for more items such as Area Rugs, Bed Frame or even Bean Bag Chairs. Helping that young customer learn about 3 4 bed mattress was certainly a fun and happy experience.
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5 Steps To A Better Lawn And Garden

If you’re lucky enough to have a lawn with a good topsoil base, much of the hard work of keeping a lawn beautiful is already done for you. But many of us do not have this luxury, and besides, even with a good topsoil base, you still have to work hard to keep a beautiful lawn and garden.

1. The best time to mow a lawn is when it is cool and dry. Wait for the morning dew to dry off, and before the afternoon heat takes hold. Alternatively, late afternoon or early evening following a watering in the morning is also a good time.

2. A hedge is a much better boundary divider than a fence. It will provide better privacy and keep pets and children in – or out. It will attract birds to its shelter, and provide a great backdrop for plants and flowers.

3. Bring the beauty of your garden to you; plant hyacinths near walkways and doors. Their magnificent perfume will swamp the spring air and make your garden really come alive.

4. Add your garden to non-garden items, such a lampposts and mail boxes. Surround these items with flowers planted to take advantage of the earliest to the latest flowerings. You could have white snowdrops, purple and gold crocus, blue hyacinths, and various colored tulips. You could also surround the posts with rocks to provide added interest.

5. Simple, but effective weed control can be achieved on your lawn by mowing often during spring. This will prevent dandelions spreading by eliminating the yellow blossoms and preventing seed formation. Mow high during late spring and early summer. This will allow grass blades to shade the ground, and will help prevent crabgrass from sprouting.

Your lawn and garden should be a source of pride and beauty. You don’t need to spend lots of money on expensive fertilizers and herbicides, or fancy lawn furniture and ornaments. A little commonsense and thought can go a long way to making your lawn and garden a much better place.
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