Ideas for Garden Storage.

Whether your garden's in desperate need of organisation, you have just taken up gardening or you want somewhere to keep your bike, you'll have to review your outdoor storage options. Below, I've given you a quick run-through of the main types of garden storage - hopefully, this'll help you work out exactly what you need.

1) Bike sheds
These days, more and more of us are cycling. Whether you've swapped your car for your bike on your daily commute or you've been inspired by Bradley Wiggins to start pedaling at the weekend, you need somewhere safe to stow your wheels.

If you have a garden, a bike shed really is worth investing in, since these keep cycles out of sight, as well as locked up - something that just gives you an extra level of protection against thieves. There are several types of bike shed on the market but, personally, I think models with double doors are best, as these make it a lot easier to get bikes in and out. However, there are smaller options with a single door that are great for small gardens.

Whatever you choose, you need to remember to affix a sturdy lock. Preferably, pick a shed that comes with a lock already, and then add your own for additional security.

Photo credit: Sheds and Things

2) Storage sheds
Yes, I realize virtually all sheds could be described as storage sheds, but in this instance I'm referring to sheds specifically designed for overall garden storage. So, unlike bike sheds, they're not created to hold any one thing, while they're also not intended as a place where you can work.

Like bike sheds, these come with either single or double doors; if you're planning to store large equipment, the latter is best. You'll also need to choose between metal and wood. On the whole, wood is more aesthetically pleasing, but metal will be more secure - and a little easier on the maintenance front.

Storage sheds also often come without windows. I think it's worth opting for this kind of design, since the lack of windows means your possessions aren't on display, which can help protect you from break-ins.

3) Workshops
Next on my list are workshops. If you like tinkering with your car or tackling other big projects, workshops are the ideal place in which to do so. Obviously, the key thing to look for in a building like this is size - a lot of garden workshops are as big as 10 ft x 12 ft.

Not all of them come with windows, so you'll need to think about adding some artificial lighting to the space if that's the case with your chosen design. However, there are models that do come with windows, and personally I think the natural light is an advantage in any workshop.

4) Multipurpose garden sheds
By multipurpose garden shed, I'm referring to the kinds of sheds that you could easily use for a lot of different things. These are typically reasonably roomy, have a few windows and are made of wood. Yes, you could use them just for storage, but they can also act as a great place for you to carry out little gardening tasks (like potting plants) away from the cold, or even to use as something like a home office. You could consider opting for duramax building products as a choice, to check out for versatile sheds with durable designs which can be suited for various uses. 

These come in a huge range of shapes and sizes - check out the Waltons website for examples - so they're equally as versatile in terms of the kinds of gardens they're suitable for. If you have a small backyard, for instance, I'd recommend getting a corner shed, since these can be tucked away in a corner, thereby making the most efficient use of the space you have available.

Fashion Pulse | Collar Stays.

All my life, I never really paid much attention to collar stays - that is, until I became a wife and a mother.

So what exactly are collar stays? They are shirt accessories - those smooth rigid strips of plastic (sometimes metal) that are inserted into the pockets found on the underside of the shirt collar. Rounded at one end and pointed at the other, collar stays are quite significant, especially when you're dressed to the nines. They ensure that the collar lies flat against the collarbone, and stays that way. Without these accessories, the tips of your collar may tend to curl upward, which could make you look less dapper, sometimes awkward, and definitely not cool.

Collar stays.

Like cuff links and money clips, collar stays must never be overlooked and should always be a part of any man's wardrobe, especially for those who are fond of wearing dress shirts and ties. Collar stays are usually sold by pairs, sometimes by the dozen. It's always good to have several of these - say, one pair for each day of the week. Some even prefer to buy collar stays in bulk, such as those found in the Qstays' website.

Remember to care for your collar stays, though. They should be removed before you wash or iron your shirt. Otherwise, this may result to permanent damage to your wardrobe.

Improve your luck, or make your own.

My Mum has this penchant for zodiac signs, psychic readings, and feng shui ornaments for as long as I can remember. So imagine her joy when she received a Laughing Buddha figurine on her 50th birthday. It was a gift from my parents-in-law, and the figurine looked something like this.

Happy Buddha.

One of the most popular symbols in feng shui, the Buddha has always been associated with abundance and prosperity. Feng shui experts often suggest having a Buddha inside your home - be it a small figurine or a three-feet statue. Having one, so the experts say, entails money, success, and good luck.

This Laughing Buddha, however, not only attracts wealth, it also ensures the owner happiness and peace in his or her life. Legend has it that the Buddha is most pleased when he sees people transforming their problems into happiness. It is said that the Buddha enjoys scooping up all the unhappiness, problems, and worries of human beings and stuffing them all inside his big bag.

Here you see the Buddha holding an inglot with his left hand, while carrying gold coins, another symbol of wealth, with his right. The Dragon Tortoise, which the Buddha is riding on, also symbolizes wealth and prosperity. This legendary symbol combines the powers and attributes of the dragon and the tortoise - two of the four spiritually endowed creatures of Chinese symbolism.

It sure would be nice if we can acquire all the good luck that these ornaments bring. Of course, we shouldn't rely on them alone. You know what they say, luck is a dividend of sweat. The more you sweat, the luckier you get.

Nailed It! | MUA Nail Constellation.

Remember that bottle of MUA Nail Constellation that came with my MUA Lip Boom purchase from Updated Trends? I finally had the chance to use them two Saturdays ago, during my Mum's '50 and Fabulous' birthday party.

Caviar nails!

This is my first attempt at doing caviar nails, so pardon me if what I did looks amateurish. It's the same reason why I chose to wear them on just two nails for each hand. I didn't want the product to go to waste lest I do something wrong while applying it.

Starry, starry nails. :)

Here's a description of the product as seen on the MUA website.
MUA’s amazing NEW Nail Constellation is inspired by the patterns formed into stars in the earth's night sky is a 3-dimensional extravagant nail art system you can create easily from home that leave your nails looking ‘wow!’.

These Constellation beads have a beautiful shine to them in five amazing space theme colours. They are easy to use and with them you can create many different designs. Supplied in a funnel for easy application with a re-sealable top! Using the Funnel application simply bed the constellation beads onto to a thick coat of your favourite MUA nail polish in a line design or just placed randomly.

Lovely colors, sleek bottle.

The new range comes in five variants: Pisces, Gemini, Libra, Leo, and Scorpio. I'm not sure where the other seven zodiac signs are; perhaps they'll be released as a separate collection in the future. Mine is Scorpio, as you can see. It's a combination of yellow, green, and purple beads - the most colorful combination and the prettiest in the collection, in my humble opinion.

Scorpio!

Anyhow, here's an instructional video uploaded on the MUA Cosmetics YouTube channel. It shows the step by step procedure on how to use the MUA Nail Constellation.

Just so you know, I used the Sassy Colors Iced Mocha as my base coat. It's the same color on my nails without the Nail Constellation. I applied a top coat, too, and (contrary to that comment on YouTube) it didn't ruin the effect on mine. If anything, adding a top coat made the beads adhere better and last longer on my nails. I wore them for about a week - quite surprising actually, since I did grueling housework during that period of time (ergo, handwashed the laundry and washed the dishes).

Next time, I'll just pour the beads in a bowl or a container of some sort and dip my nails into it. That way, no beads will go to waste and it'll save me time from putting back the unused beads inside the tiny jar.

MUA Nail Constellation is available at Php 300 per bottle at The Updated Trends. They'll be participating at the upcoming Super Sale Bazaar, happening on March 1-3 at the World Trade Center, so I suggest you take this chance to check out the MUA Nail Constellation and other MUA products at their stall. :)

Join | Kindle Fire HD Giveaway! (Open Worldwide)

Some of my readers, particularly those who love to read (and read while on the go), have been asking me for a Kindle Giveaway. Your wishes are granted my dears, as I bring you the world's most advanced 7" tablet for our next giveaway. :)

Welcome to the Kindle Fire HD Giveaway!

Sponsored by: Mom Blog Society | Jackie's Reviews | Geeky Gamer Mom | 

S.O.S Mom | Swank Savings | Route 249 | She Informed | Mom Does Reviews

Special Thanks to: Lumbar Liquidators | Trade Winds Imports | Roybi Tools | 

Select Blinds | Carolina Rustics | eFaucets | Brylane Homes

Kindle Fire HD

• HD display, customized Dolby audio, and dual-driver stereo speakers
• Ultra-fast web browsing and streaming with built-in dual-band, dual-antenna Wi-Fi
• Front-facing HD camera for photos or Skype or other apps
• Integrated support for Facebook, Twitter, and email
• Massive selection - over 23 million movies, TV shows, songs, magazines, books, audiobooks, and popular apps and games such as Netflix, Pandora, Pinterest, and Angry Birds Space
• Control content access and set screen time limits for kids.

This event will run from February 26 (0001H EST) to March 12 (1259H EST). 

Open WORLDWIDE!

Winners outside the US will receive the cash equivalent via Paypal or Amazon. 

Enter the giveaway via the Rafflecopter below. 

Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

A Weekend with the Kids in Lovely Bath.

Fancy a break from the norm? A weekend away to just chill out and have fun with your family? Everyone needs a good old mini-break every once in a while, so why not try out the popular, historic city of Bath for a weekend of great entertainment and culture?

Why Bath? 
Why not? There’s so much to love about this city of history and culture. One of the main attractions in Bath is, wait for it, the Roman Bathhouses, but the city also boasts a wider mass of gorgeous architecture, a fabulous array of listed buildings, and it’s even been named by Unesco as a World Heritage Site.

Photo credit: EuroBuildings

Bath is a great mini-break destination for families. If you want to get a flavour of the city quickly, jump on one of the frequent hop-on hop-off tour buses that zip around the main attractions of the city. Kids love sitting up-top the open top bus, although it’s perhaps best if you’ve got half decent weather and not the traditional British downpour.

If you want to delve deeper into the history of Bath and want to visit the Roman Baths and Museum, you don’t have to worry about what to do with the kids, because the museum now has a “Meet the Romans” audioguide tour available.

Bath City Farm is a wonderful place for families to visit. You’re free to roam around the farm with the animals whenever you like, and there is no charge to visit, although the farm, being a charitable organisation, greatly appreciates any donation you can make.

Where are the Best Restaurants in Bath?
Bath has such a huge range of fabulous places to eat, you’ll be spoilt for choice. The vast number of options available in and around the city means you’ll be guaranteed to find somewhere that will suit everyone, but it’s always wise to investigate family-friendly options online and book in advance online. Check out Bath Restaurants to see what the city has to offer.

A great, family-friendly restaurant in Bath is ASK Italian. This restaurant has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, and a massive selection of fine Italian cuisine, so it’s easy to find something to suit the whole family. ASK Italian welcomes children, and provides colouring and activities sheets to keep the little ones amused.

Photo credit: Garfunkel's

Garfunkel’s is another popular choice for families, and offers anything and everything from classic British favourites to international dishes. It’s best to book this one in advance to avoid disappointment.

Where to Stay?
You’re spoilt for choice in Bath. Because it’s one of the UK’s most popular cities, it can offer something for everyone’s budget. YHA Bath is a gorgeous, Italian-style mansion set in beautiful gardens, and is only 10 minutes’ walk from Bath city centre, making it the ideal location for your trip.

Wentworth House is very similar, and although it’s a 15 minute walk from the city centre, it offers a heated outdoor pool and hot tub, so it’s the perfect place to unwind after the hustle and bustle of the city.

Easy Ways to Keep your Kitchen Drain Clog-Free.

A clogged kitchen sink can be very annoying. It's dirty, it's messy, sometimes stinky, and can cause a major standstill inside the home, let alone the kitchen. This dilemma, however can be easily avoided by taking some simple precautions. Here are some tips in keeping your drainage system healthy and clog-free.

Photo credit: Made in China.

It's a kitchen drain, not a garbage can.
Rice grains, bread crumbs, apple seeds - believe it or not, these tiny things are often the ones to blame when it comes to clogged drains. They may be minuscule, but the buildup over months and years can shake even the toughest drain installation toronto.

Keep it clean.
Mix some of your dishwashing liquid with boiling water, pour it down the drain. Do this every so often (once a week at least) to prevent clogs and build-ups in your kitchen drain. You can try baking soda mixed with vinegar, which is a tried and tested way to freshen and unclog drains.

Avoid corrosive chemicals.
Stay away from those cleaning fluids, as they actually do more harm than good. They tend to be corrosive, and can cause potential damage inside your drain pipes.

Odor away.
Your kitchen sink needs to smell good, too. Simply pour some concentrated lemon juice or vinegar into the drain at least once every two weeks. Flush it with boiling water afterwards. This will keep your kitchen sink fresh and odor-free.

An ounce of prevention is always better than a pound of cure. But when the situation calls for it, and the clog is too stubborn for even the toughest plunger, then it's time to call the toronto plumber - or hit the dial tone for the plumbers from down under, www.plumberinnerwest.com.au.

Straightforward Tips to Reduce the Risk of Bathtub Falls

Are you worried about bathroom falls because you have experienced one before, or because you are inviting a new resident who is vulnerable to the risk of falling? No matter the cause for your increased interested in bathroom safety, this quick guide will help you reduce the risk of injuries in the tub through the use of a few smart modifications.

Entering, Exiting, and Using the Bathtub Safely
The most dangerous part of bathing or showering often comes when you climb in or out of the tub. A single slip can cause significant injury. Grab bars are a great investment to begin with – you'll want one on the inside of the tub to provide stability while showering or standing up from a bath, and you'll want another grab bar on the outside of the tub to provide stability while you're climbing in or out.

Consider a walk-in conversion kit. These kits will either lower the tub wall a few inches, or will lower the wall all the way down to an inch or two above floor level. These conversion kits are perfect for people with stiff knees, bad hips, or poor balance.

Do you have trouble getting from the seated position after taking a nice long soak bath? Grab bars are helpful, but sometimes they do not quite get the whole job done. Bath lifts are a great solution for people who have a condition that contributes to weakness, sore joints, or difficulty balancing. A bath lift will raise or lower you to tub wall level at the touch of a button.

Bath chairs are another great option for fans of baths and showers alike. A sturdy shower chair, when combined with a handheld shower sprayer, is a huge boon for safety. You can't fall if you're already sitting down!

Photo credit: RebathandKitchens

Invest in an All-Encompassing Solution
The options mentioned thus far are great for people who have some time to spend shopping for adaptability products or remodeling the bathroom, but we know that some homeowners would rather invest in a one-size-fits-all solution that will provide safe and comfortable bathing for years to come. Instead of a regular walk-in tub, look for a complete walk-in bath system.

Complete walk-in tubs combine the best of a stable sitting surface with the breeze of a walk-in entry. They have that convenient little door to keep water inside if you want to soak, and have a built-in seat so that you don't have to worry about a shower bench slipping around. The basic models come with a spot for a hand-held shower sprayer, and the high-end models have fancy features ranging from heated massage jets to shower enclosure extensions.

These "all-encompassing" walk-in tubs are marketed under a variety of names. They're sometimes called king size tubs, walk-in soakers, deluxe walk-in bathtubs, etc. We know them as tubs that put safety first – because that is exactly what these innovative designs do.

Are you ready to get started? Bathroom safety is for everyone. Falling in the bathtub is a dangerous situation regardless of age or physical ability, and any actions taken to reduce those risks are investments well made.

Green Ways to Remove Rug and Carpet Stains.

When you have kids or pets at home, it's not unusual for your carpet to be subjected to all sorts of dirt and stains. Sure, they can be easily addressed by all those commercially-available stain removers. But more often than not, these products contain caustic substances. Not to mention chlorine and/or petroleum-bas­ed solvents that are potentially dangerous to our health, most especially to our kids.

Green carpet cleaning has become a healthier option these days; a more popular choice for the health-conscious and environment-friendly moms like me. And I'm sharing with you some simple ways to remove stains and reduce odor from your rugs and carpets - the green way.

For odor control, use baking soda. Sprinkle a generous amount on your carpet and let it set for 30 minutes to an hour before vacuuming. To further improve odor, National Geographic Green Living suggest trying a few drops of lavender oil or ground cloves to the baking soda to improve indoor odor.

Got crayon stains on the carpet? Take an old toothbrush, dip it in vinegar and then scrub the stained area. You can do the same technique for glue and bubblegum stains, too.

As for the four C's of stains - catsup, coffee, cola, and chocolate, these call for a vinegar and water solution. Of course, each culprit has its own stain removal guideline, but the principle behind each is to mix 1 cup of vinegar with 2 cups water. You can increase the quantity depending on the amount of stain you are dealing with, as long as you follow the 1:2 ratio.

Photo credit: Red Beacon.

For catsup stains, sponge the mixture into the carpet until the stain disappears. Do this liberally while rinsing and repeatedly wringing out your sponge. Chocolate stains can be treated in the same way, but it's important to blot with a clean cloth, instead of rubbing it, to avoid spreading the stain further. Remember to rinse and wring out your sponge as well.

A coffee or tea spill on the rug should come up easily if you clean it right away. Simply sponge it with clean water. However, if it's an old stain, you can use the vinegar and water solution. Sponge it in, then rinse and wring until all brown color is gone. Cola stains can be treated that way as well.

Spazz Saturday #18 | Yoon Eun Hye Broadens Acting Career with Mature Roles.

As Yoon Eun Hye enters the eighth year of her acting career, she looks back at the days when she first entered Hallyu, after leaving the music industry and the girl group Baby VOX, where she was a member for almost six year.

“When I was younger, I was very careful about everything because I was afraid of creating misunderstandings. But now I’ve shed all those anxieties, and I feel much freer than before”, she recalls.

Yoon Eun Hye says she feels more confident about herself, now that she is entering her thirties and becomes more established in TV drama. Her latest TV drama, MBC’s “I Miss You” was a turning point for her. Yoon’s character in the drama is a woman who was sexually molested as a child and exhausted all efforts to bury her memories from the past. She said she initially struggled with the complexity of the character’s psychological issues, and found the experience so draining that she ended up in the hospital from fatigue and exhaustion.

Viewers, however, responded positively to her performance after immersing herself fully in the role. She was able to overcome cynical critics who had previously questioned the limits of her acting ability, garnering overwhelming positive reviews along the way.

“I’ve always wanted to play the kind of roles that were suitable for my age,” Yoon Eun Hye says. “The reason I’ve been looking forward to turning 30 so quickly is because I always expected it would open up a broader range of roles.”

Meanwhile, her short film “The Knitting” was part of the Busan International Film Festival last year, and the decision to challenge herself further by taking up film directing has helped her acting.

“I used to become very sensitive when I worked on projects, because I felt so personally responsible for whatever work I was engaged in, and this may have made life harder for those working with me,” she said. “But directing a film with a whole production crew made me think that I may have been mistaken in behaving like that. I realized that I need to be more flexible in how I approach things, and that helped me feel more at ease and go more with the flow this time.”

Despite only recently having wrapped up her latest production, she is already thinking about her next project. She said her confidence has been boosted by all the positive reviews she has received and now she wants to show audiences what she is really capable of.

Yoon Eun Hye says she wants to experience so many things, “because that enlarges and improves you as a person.”

Also published on Korea.com.

Car Insurance | Why you should get one and what you can get from it.

Whether it's a top-of-the-line luxury car, a brand new sedan, or a rustbucket from the late 1990's, it is important that the vehicle you're driving is insured. Car insurance is extremely important for so many reasons.  Not only does it protect you in case an accident occurs, it also protects the people who may be riding with you in the car. Moreover, it also safeguards your family members who may drive your car. Simply put, the insurance protects you, your loved ones, and of course, your car.

When it comes to auto insurance, there is one name that has earned its reputation and is well-renowned in the market - The Hartford. Providing innovative car insurance features that come with a myriad of benefits, The Hartford makes sure that you get the most out of the money you spend.

Photo credit: Cars Avenue

The RecoverCare Car Insurance Benefit for instance, pays for the services  that you might need whilst you are nursing your injury. Say you need to hire someone to do your laundry, mow the lawn, clean the house - whatever service you need, The Hartford will help you pay for it.

They also have the Lifetime Car Repair Assurance which covers the repairs for your car for as long as you own or lease your vehicle. With over 1,600 accredited auto repair shops to choose from, policyholders across the country can enjoy this benefit whether they're in Connecticut, or elsewhere in the United States.

Another notable feature is the New Car Replacement benefit.  In the event of total loss of a new car within the first 15 months or 15,000 miles after you purchased it (whichever comes first), The Hartford shall replace it with a new vehicle - the same make, and model as the car that was lost. And with no deduction for depreciation at that.

Most importantly, there's the 24/7 Claim Hotline, with customer service agents working round the clock and ready to take your call day or night - because The Hartford believes that claim support is a key feature of car insurance.

For those who are willing to take the extra mile, there are Auto Insurance Upgrade Features available that allows you to enjoy even more benefits aside from the standard benefits mentioned above.

Win a Samsung Chromebook! Open Worldwide!

I love Samsung, oh yes I do. Hence, another Samsung giveaway! This time, we're raffling out (drumroll, please) a brand new Chromebook!

The Samsung Chromebook is a new computer that helps you get everyday things done faster and easier. It starts in seconds, has virus protection built-in, and runs your favorite Google apps plus thousands more.

The Chromebook comes with leading Google products, like Search, Gmail, YouTube and Hangouts, so you can work, play, and do whatever you want, right out of the box. You can easily share it with multiple people- switching accounts takes seconds, and everyone gets their own files, apps and settings.

And it's simple to use. There's no setup, and your files are automatically backed up in the cloud. At just 2.4 pounds, 0.7 inches thin, and with over 6.5 hours of battery life, the Samsung Chromebook can go anywhere you go. It's built to stay cool, so it doesn't need a fan and runs silently. It also includes 100GB of free Google Drive storage (for 2 years), a built-in webcam, and dual band Wi-Fi to make it easy to connect to wireless networks.

Now here's the best part. One lucky winner will have the chance to own this gizmo! 

Open worldwide, winners outside the US will receive the cash equivalent 

to be sent via Paypal or as Amazon GC. 

This event will run from February 23 until March 9, 2013.

Enter the giveaway using the Rafflecopter below! 

Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sponsored by: Mom BlogSociety | S.O.S Mom | Jackie’s Reviews | Geeky Gamer Mom | Swank Savings | She Informed | Mom Does Reviews | Route 249 | A Medics World | 
And a special thanks to the following brands. Lumber Liquidators | Trade Winds Imports | Brylane Home | Select Blinds | eFacuets | Carolina Rustic | 

Disclosure: I received no compensation for this publication. My opinions are my own and may differ from those of your own. The Rebel Sweetheart is not responsible for sponsor prize shipment.

Compare and contrast with the Toyota Comparison Site.

So you've finally made the decision to retire your old car and get a new one. Not only have you set your heart into it, you've set a budget for the purchase, too. Now all that's left is to decide which brand and model you are getting.

With many different automobile brands and car models in the market today, narrowing the choice to just one can be pretty tough. But with this car model comparison app found in the Toyota Cost of Ownership website, the daunting task of choosing which car to buy is made a lot easier.

Compare, contrast.

For every Toyota car model featured on the homepage comes a comparison graph that allows you to see how Toyota cars fare against its competitors. Simply click on a Toyota car model and you will be routed to a page containing the specifics of your chosen car model (in this case, the Rav4), a comparison graph featuring the different automobile brands, and a CF (that's commercial film) for your viewing pleasure.

Rav4 compares...

Also contained in that page is a link to yet another page, where you can view the special offers for that particular car. There are several lease options available if you're ready to purchase, or you can request for a quote for other possible payment schemes. Other inquiries can also be made on the said page, where you have the option to be contacted by a local dealer via phone or email.

Top tips for cutting home heating and cooling costs.

With utility bills in the UK increasing every year, it's in everyone's interests to do their best to cut how much they spend on heating and cooling their property. According to the Energy Saving Trust, more than half of the money spent on fuel bills in UK households is for heating and hot water, so if you manage to reduce this you could see significant savings.

Below are some tips to help you reduce the amount you spend each year on heating and cooling your home.

Insulation
If you're not sure what state the insulation in your property is in, or whether you even have any, check! You'll be amazed by how much of a difference insulation makes to the temperature of your home.

For example, fitting loft insulation of between 0 and 270 mm in thickness could see you cut your heating bill by up to £175 per year, figures from the Energy Saving Trust reveal. The organisation estimates it will take around two years to pay for itself, and then you can look forward to savings for a long time to come!

Wall and floor insulation are also worth considering if you don't have any installed already, while covering your hot water tank with an insulating jacket could result in around £40 of savings a year.

Boilers
If you've got an old boiler in your home, it may well be time to upgrade to a newer model. Not only will this be safer, but as modern boilers are much more energy-efficient than their older counterparts, they're likely to save you money as well.

To give you an indication of the difference you can expect to see on your bills when you replace an old G-rated boiler with an A-rated one, you're likely to reduce your heating costs by around £300 annually, the Energy Saving Trust has calculated.

Photo credit: LivingDesignHome

Heat your house efficiently
Of course, it's not just about upgrading or improving the heating system you've got, but also about altering your habits to ensure it's as efficient as possible. For example, if you have a room or two that are rarely used, make sure the radiators are turned off so you're not heating them unnecessarily.

Similarly, set your heating system on a timer so that it's not pumping out warmth during the day when everyone's at work or school. You should also consider whether you can turn your thermostat down by a degree or two, because even this small change could lead to a ten per cent reduction in your bills.

What about cooling?
While we're still in the depths of winter it can be hard to imagine being too warm, but the UK can experience hot weather during the summer. Although you might be happy to just open your windows and put up with sweltering during a heat wave, there is another cost-effective option: hiring a portable air conditioning unit. 

Running air conditioners consistently is expensive - and not something you'll ever need in Britain - and they can be costly to install. However, if you rent a portable unit, you can fit it easily, use it for as long as you need and then return it when the weather cools down.

As well as meaning that you'll only be paying for air-con when you actually need it, this approach also does away with the headache of having to work out where to store the equipment when it's not in use for the majority of the year.

What are my options when choosing a front door?

When it comes to choosing an exterior door, you want it to be perfect. It is the first impression that anyone will get of you and your house, and when choosing to replace or change your door, it can be difficult to know what is best.

You want it to suit your home perfectly and since you’ll be seeing it every day, you want to love it too - so what are your options?

Photo credit: Interior for you

Wood/PVC?
Some people opt for wooden front doors as they believe these to be more traditional than PVC varieties. They can sometimes look more appealing, particularly on an old build, although are often heavy and may bring you more problems than a plastic door if they are old and not cared for properly.

Of course, some people prefer PVC doors as they exude a modern look which is perfect for those in newer properties. They are sometimes viewed as being more secure too and this can be a massive incentive when it comes to making your decision.

Also, they can be easier to clean if you have children or pets as they boast a wipe clean service. They can be easier to care for and harder to damage which is especially beneficial for those in busy households.

Glass/No Glass?
Having glass in your door is great, especially if you have a dark hallway as this allows the maximum amount of light into your home. Glass can make your door look very appealing and can be frosted or patterned as you wish in order to give your door and home a more personal feel.

Some people opt to not have glass in their door though as they can see it as a security risk. Even though the glass if often toughened it can be seen as a spot of weakness and viewed as a potential vulnerability. This can put some people off for obvious reasons, although cases of burglary purely due to glass being in the door are extremely rare.

There are plenty of other choices with exterior doors but the above considerations are the two biggest questions which cause the most problems. Ultimately, you need to choose a door which is right for you and right for your home. This means thinking about which styles you prefer and then matching your chosen door to other features in your home.

What you need to know about Spray Foam Insulation.

Renovating an old home and having it insulated? These days, spray foam insulation ottawa is one of the most popular choice. Not only is it one of the most technologically advanced insulation system available today, it also increases the energy efficiency of the house, lowering the heating and cooling costs.

Spray foam insulation.

With this type of insulation, SPF, or Spray Polyurethane Foam is used and applied as liquid in the cavity which quickly swells up to 100 times its volume to form a polyurethane foam insulation. Here's how this method of ottawa insulation works: A nozzle is inserted behind the wall, under the floor or in the ceiling, via a small hole. The liquid is sprayed through the nozzle where it turns into foam and fills the area completely.

Spray foam insulation is the preferred choice over most other types of insulation commercially available on the market today because of these advantages:

• It can reduce heating and cooling costs by as much as 60%.
• It can fill the tiniest holes, and penetrates around pipes, wiring, and ducts.
• It reduces dust accumulation and improves overall indoor air quality.
• It is naturally resistant to water, mold, mildew and pest, thereby improving the overall indoor environment.
• It is inert and non-toxic, and does not emit significant levels of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds).
• It does not settle or degrade over time, even if it gets wet.

Remember, when choosing the best insulation method for your home you must also consider the climate in, the size of your home, and the amount you are willing to spend.

Choosing the Best Android Security App.

Security is vital for everyone that uses the Internet, regardless of whether it is on your Android, laptop or PC. Whether you are a single Mum, business man, or Mother of four, you need to be aware of the best security available for you to download. There is a huge array of choice, which is why it can be daunting to decide.

Apps are fantastic; however, they are the window to threats, and abuse, which is why you need to ensure that your Android is protected at all times. As the market for Apps continues to grow, you need to ensure that you understand the concerns and threats which are always prominent. Many Apps are removed to ensure that the market remains safe and secure.

The moment the Apps pose a threat, they will be removed, however, if you have downloaded them before they are detected, you may have put yourself at risk. The open nature of the Android often comes into question as this can make you vulnerable. However, if you remain sensible, and have the correct security in place you will be safer.

Photo credit: Uber Gizmo

There is a high level of information that is stored on an android, which can make it the perfect target for hackers. This is why you need to ensure that you use a secure SFTP server, backed up with excellent security. With every possible solution in place, you will be able to protect your data from possible hackers.

Searching on the Android, you will find a number of different security packages, and some are very good, however, others may be pointless. You need to choose a security package that allows you to scan for viruses throughout the day. There are free packages which are basic, and if you are short of money they are better than nothing.

If possible you should always try to buy a package which will guarantee that you are protected from every possible threat. These will often scan messages, emails, and downloads to ensure that everything that enters your phone is safe. Many of the security systems are password protected, which makes them unique to your device.

As with all Apps, you need to download them from a reputable source, which will ensure that you are safer. Unfortunately, threats are present everywhere, and some people are simply unlucky when downloading form the Internet. However, if you choose wisely, make sure that you keep your passwords secret, and do not become complacent, you will remain far more secure and safe.

Is It Better to Rent or Own in Florida?

Florida is a great place to purchase real estate. It's a desirable place to live for families as it offers the perfect climate, great scenery, and plenty of job opportunities. However, the housing collapse has made many buyers question whether it's the right time to purchase a home and most cannot qualify for a mortgage. Perhaps renting is a better alternative considering the instability of real estate. Below, you will find positive and negatives to both renting and buying, so that you can make a decision for yourself.

Photo credit: Team Maps

Renting provides financial security in case the housing market collapses
Real estate will never be considered a stable investment again. The economic conditions throughout the world are creating instability and buying a home is considered to be risky. Renting has no dangers or commitments. At any time, you could end your lease and move out. You're not tied down to a mortgage like you are with a home, so there is very little worry associated with renting.

Buying a home in Florida is a strong investment
Florida homes sell for very high dollar amounts and by purchasing a home your monthly payments will be applied to your mortgage. This builds equity and when it comes time to sell the property, you are likely to make profit. However, if the economy were to experience another downfall, the value of your home would surely depreciate. If you believe that housing prices are only going to rise and another recession is unlikely, then owning your own home should be something you are considering. Renting is not an investment, since you are not build equity, nor can you sell the property. It's not yours like a home that you own would be, so therefore, your monthly payments are simply contributing to nothing.

Florida homes sell quickly and are highly desirable
One benefit that you have working in your favor when you decide to purchase a home in Florida is that these homes are highly desirable. Florida is the perfect place to live when it comes to raising a family and living comfortably. There are families that move to Florida regularly and if you own a home here, it's likely to sell very quickly after you put it on the market. Some would say this provides a guarantee that your investment is safe, but there are always risks involved.

Buying a home is generally considered the smartest choice economically. However, the instability of the economy has created a lot of concerns for potential buyers. One thing is certain; fewer people are buying homes today than they were just a decade ago. Renting allows you to live comfortably without straining yourself to pay a mortgage and it also provides an opportunity to save money and prepare for a potential purchase.

Great Commercial Flooring Options.

Depending on what type of building is having the flooring put in, some options will be better than others. Whether it is an office, school, store, or a manufacturing facility, there will always be some factors to always consider before deciding. The main goal for most commercial flooring consumers is to receive a combinations of cost efficiency, durability, visual appeal, and practical maintainability.

Resilient Flooring
This is one of the most popular materials for flooring due to its easy maintenance, very high durability, stain resistant ability, and best of all, its cost efficiency. Resilient flooring is made from materials such as vinyl, rubber tiles, linoleum, and vinyl composition tiles. These come in multiple different designs, so finding one to match the area is not hard at all. Almost any commercial environment can have resilient flooring.

Carpet Flooring 
Although carpet sheets are used in residential settings, tiles have been gaining popularity among some commercial businesses and organizations. Carpet tiles are usually within 1 or 2 feet squares that can be combined with different colors to make certain designs or have a unique look. Due to the small tiles, if one becomes damaged or stained, its especially easy to have it replaced with another tile.

Photo credit: Berry Sites

Wood Flooring
Wood is going to have a much higher upfront cost when compared with most other flooring options. Although it has a higher cost, it can also be the longest lasting flooring if maintained properly. Wood flooring has always been considered to be elegant and classy that no other flooring option can provide. If the cost of the wood is too much, then laminated wood flooring might be a better option. Although it looks quite similar, has a much shorter life span and the looks of it can change at a rapid pace if not maintained.

Concrete Flooring
While concrete flooring is the cheapest and most durable solution to flooring, it usually isn't that pleasant to the eye. This type of floor is great for warehouses or any other industrial buildings that do not require any elegant designs to help branding or impress customers. Concrete can be stained patterned, or sealed to help increase the visual appeal, but its effects are usually minimal.

Stone Flooring
This is another great option that might have some extra upfront costs, but in the long run, will be cost effective due to its high durability and ability to easily be maintained. These are very popular in restaurants and other high customer environments because of the elegance that comes with them. There is many different types of stone flooring so there is an amazing range of different colors and textures that can be used to customize any flooring. No matter what type of stone is used, it will turn out great and be very beneficial.

These are just some of the options for commercial flooring, but they should get you headed in the right direction. The biggest part of commercial flooring is finding a great flooring company like http://www.r-tekmanufacturingltd.com/ to help make the decision.

A whole new level of shopping experience with Lazada Promise.

Lazada, the leading online shopping destination in the Philippines, is giving more Pinoys a more satisfying experience with its Lazada Promise. This new system guarantees that any participating product with the Lazada Promise seal will be sent out within 24 hours on weekdays and 48 hours on weekends from the time of the order.

Because promises should be kept.

Here's how this feature works:
1. Only products with the Lazada Promise seal are eligible.
2. Eligible products will be dispatched via 2GO or LBC within 24 hours (Mon-Fri) to 48 hours (Sat-Sun) of placing your order.
3. You will receive SMS and email notification upon dispatch of your order. You may track your order real-time at www.lazada.com.ph/orderstatus
4. Should we happen to miss our dispatch guarantee, please contact Customer Service at www.lazada.com.ph/contact. You will be entitled to one (1) Php 500 Lazada voucher per eligible order.
5. If we contact you to verify your credit card or address, your order will be excluded from the Lazada Promise.


Offering a wide array of products from shoes, personal care, apparel, appliances, electronics and books, Lazada has something for every kind of buyer. Top brands featured in the site include Apple, Sony, Nikon, The Body Shop, Nike, Enfant and Sephora.

More than just reliability, convenience and variety, Lazada shoppers are assured of quick action on their orders as soon as they are placed and paid for.

For shopping fixes that need to be satisfied fast, visit www.lazada.com.ph now.

Wordless Wednesday #27 | Achy Breaky Heart.

Mum officially became a Golden Girl last February 12, and to celebrate this milestone, we threw a party for her over the weekend. Dubbed '50 and Fabulous', the event also became a mini-reunion for Mum and her high school and college friends. Our friends were there, too, and so was our relatives.

One of the highlights of the party was the Flash Mob/Line Dance spearheaded by my brother-in-law. Check out my little dancer, trying to keep up with the steps. You may change the quality to HD for better viewing. (Video taken with Seunghyun, my Samsung Galaxy Note 2!)

When you are looking to relocate, you want to ensure that you find the best places to live.

There are huge arrays of reasons why you may want to relocate, and once you have made the decision it can be daunting. You will want to ensure that you choose the perfect location that fits all of your requirements. Not only must you like the house, but also the surrounding areas, and people that live in the neighbourhood.

In the USA, there are numerous different places that you can live, and many have entirely different climates and cultures. You need to think about why you want to live in an area, and if you are still unsure, research several different factors. For example, if you’re considering a relocation to Missouri, exploring local amenities such as the breweries kansas city has to offer, can give you a unique insight into the city’s culture and community vibe. This can help you decide if the atmosphere and lifestyle align with what you’re looking for in a new home. There are several different websites which outline the best places to live in America, and these can be fascinating to read.

Photo credit: Kielbaski

Whether you want to relocate to a big city or a small mountain hamlet, there are numerous choices available. Every different location will suit someone; you simply need to find your special place. The location should fit your lifestyle, goals, and preferences. For instance, if you're thinking about moving to West Philadelphia, you might search online for 'things to do around hershey pa' to determine whether the local attractions align with your interests and lifestyle. Once you find your special place you will feel relaxed and at home.

Many of the ranking systems which are available will take into a number of different factors including culture, crime rate, weather, economy and the overall happiness of the residents. You will be amazed at the different reasons why people choose an area; however, your decision should be personal to you. Some people thrive on the diversity of a city, and others love the tranquility of a small town.

Times Square, New York City.

Cities may seem appealing as they offer a huge number of different attractions, including a vibrant nightlife, stunning skyline, and everything on your doorstep. However, the cost to live in these places may be beyond your budget, which is why living further out, may be more appealing. The cost of living has a big influence on where you decide, and is often the top factor that people will consider.

Alongside the cost of living, you need to also consider the price of the property, both rental and purchase prices will increase in affluent areas. Your budget will defiantly have a huge part to play in where you can afford to live. However, there is nothing to stop you striving for a more expensive area in the future.

Taking the time to research the different areas, and consider all of the factors involved will help you to make the right decision. You need to look at your lifestyle, preferences, home life, and speak to other family members. Relocating should never be done quickly as this is often when bad decisions are made, and the wrong area chosen.