Minggu, 23 Januari 2011

Today's Obsessions

Today's Obsessions


7 of My Favorite Laundry Soaps …

Posted: 23 Jan 2011 12:10 PM PST

7 of My Favorite Laundry Soaps …

Though I loathe most household chores — who doesn't? — I adore doing the laundry. The warm, clean clothes, fresh out of the dryer, the new wardrobe possibilities… but most important is that fresh, clean scent, and of course that all of my clothes came clean! The right laundry detergent is key, and I have a bunch of favorites. Here are 7 of my favorite laundry soaps.

1. Method Laundry Detergent

Method Laundry DetergentPrice: $15.49 at drugstore.com
This laundry soap is available in three scents: peony blossom, free and clear (no scent), and fresh air. I like the "fresh air" the best, but they're all soft and light. Four tiny pumps of this laundry soap will clean one entire load of laundry, so this small 20 ounce bottle can clean up to 50 loads! This detergent is also 95% plant-based, hypo-allergenic, and completely biodegradable.

2. Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Laundry Detergent

Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day Laundry DetergentPrice: $15.99 at drugstore.com
I love the entire range of Mrs. Meyers cleaning products, but especially this laundry detergent, which is lightly scented with lavender. There are other scents, too, including lemon verbena and basil (sounds odd, but smells divine). I love that you can use this one detergent in all machines, including HE machines, and that the formula isn't tested on animals but is biodegradable.

3. Gain Liquid Detergent, Apple Mango Tango

Gain Liquid Detergent, Apple Mango TangoPrice: $10.99 at drugstore.com
This is my all-time favorite every-day laundry detergent, ideal for adding a summer scent to your clothes even in the middle of winter. This detergent is made for HE machines, and will clean up to 50 loads of laundry. It's also safe for septic tanks and the bottle is recyclable and made from at least 25% recycled materials.

10 Gorgeous Vera Bradley Prints …

Posted: 23 Jan 2011 11:28 AM PST

10 Gorgeous Vera Bradley Prints …

Vera Bradley is a brand known for its use of colorful fabric and patterns. They go all the way back to Spring 1985 where they brought the world of fashion creations that took inspiration from world art, history, fashion, and culture. Flowers, birds, leaves, and elements of nature are predominant in the fabric designs. There is also no shortage of fabric with geometric and more classic patterns. Over the decades, Vera Bradley has released many prints that have captured the hearts of people with different tastes and personalities. Here are some current prints that, to me, are gorgeous and standout.

1. Buttercup

Buttercup
I can't help but love this print because of its warm colors. I also love how the flowers in this pattern seem hand cut and hand sewn. There is a vibe of free-spiritedness that comes off of this print that you can't help but feel a bit less tense, a bit looser, and a bit freer.

2. Versailles

Versailles
The inspiration for the Versailles obviously comes from nature with its lovely flowers and leaves on graceful stems. As a whole, the print exudes boldness and strength while still being delicate and fashionable. There is so much to love about this print: rich colors, great textural quality, and overall luxury.

3. Barcelona

Barcelona
This print uses a design that is classic and structured. This print actually has a striped border (not shown) which gives it a nice modern twist. The overall look is richly textured, pulled-together, and definitely eye catching.

13 Wonderful Celebrities We Lost in 2010 …

Posted: 23 Jan 2011 11:19 AM PST

13 Wonderful Celebrities We Lost in 2010 …

2010 was a marvelous year, one that I'll remember fondly. But it wasn't all good — we lost some of our favorite, best-loved celebrities, including two women I found inspirational, Elizabeth Edwards and Lena Horne. As a Detroit Tigers fan, I'll also miss Sparky Anderson and Ernie Harwell… here are 13 wonderful celebrities we lost in 2010…

1. Elizabeth Edwards

Photo Credit: nydailynews.com

July 3, 1949 – December 7, 2010

Elizabeth Edwards was one of the few women in American politics I truly admired. She seemed fearless, but human; strong and courageous, yet delicate in a way I could relate to. She stood for everything I admire in women: she was a wife and mother with a mind of her own. She was strong through the tragic loss of her teenage son, fought her own body against breast cancer, and faced public scrutiny through two of her husband's failed bids for the vice presidency and presidency, then his very scandalous affair with a staffer. When the sickness in her body finally defeated her, she went with grace and dignity, her family at her side. She will be missed.

2. Leslie Nielsen

Photo Credit: nydailynews.com

February 11, 1926 – November 28, 2010

Leslie Nielsen may have been famous for his perfect comedic timing, but he was more than a slap-stick comedy actor. He was an avid golfer, stating at one time that he hoped to maintain his status as a celebrity so he'd keep being invited to play in celeb golf tournaments. He was also a devoted father, and a life-long learner. I loved his sense of humor!

3. Sparky Anderson and Ernie Harwell

Photo Credit: threedonia.com

Photo Credit: blingcheese.com

February 22, 1934 – November 4, 2010 and January 25, 1918 – May 4, 2010

2010 was a rough year for Detroit Tigers fans; we lost two of our favorite local celebrities, Sparky Anderson (Tigers manager from 1979 to 1995) and Ernie Harwell, the voice of the Tigers (and the voice of summer) from 1960 through 2002. Both men were local heroes, inspiring millions (literally) with their gentle humor, toughness, and philanthropy.

7 Reasons to Write Real Letters …

Posted: 23 Jan 2011 11:03 AM PST

7 Reasons to Write Real Letters …

Letter writing is more than just a dying art, it has become lost. You can email, IM, text, send messages on Facebook and Myspace and Twitter – why write a letter? There are dozens of reasons, actually, but here are my top 7 picks for why it is still worth it to write real letters.

1. More Personal

Without question, handwritten letters are more personal. You can really say what you feel. You will think more about what you are writing as well, plus it gives you time to consider how best to word what you want to say. Done right, a handwritten letter can be a work of art.

2. Longer Lasting

Letters make memories. I have letters to me written by the Better Half, from my best friends, from my parents, all saved away in a locked box that I enjoy opening every so often, so I can read through them. Sure, you can save emails as well, you can even print them out, but not even hard copies are quite as tangible as a handwritten letter.

3. More Deliberate

Have you ever dashed off an email in anger or excitement and sent it off without thinking twice – and then lived to regret it? It’s happened to all of us – but generally only with email, and rarely with handwritten letters. What you say and how you say it are both more deliberate, you have more time to think about whether or not you should be sending your letter as well.

8 Ways Lady GaGa Will Try To Get Attention In 2011 …

Posted: 23 Jan 2011 10:55 AM PST

8 Ways Lady GaGa Will Try To Get Attention In 2011 …

Love her or loathe her, there's no denying that Lady GaGa knows how to grab attention. The trouble with having such a flamboyant image is that eventually there's nowhere left to go (metaphorically speaking). What can you do to shock once you've worn a dress supposedly made out of raw meat? Here are some suggestions as to what the Lady will try this year …

1. Have Herself Skinned

We've seen practically every bit of GaGa's body already, so the next step is surely for her to show us the inside as well. Yes, she will have herself skinned. One lucky fan will win the skin made into a suit.

2. Wear Her Fans

We all know how devoted many GaGa fans are, and love to follow her around everywhere she goes. So I predict that some of them will be employed as living outfits. They will surround GaGa as she walks, and be carefully placed (and choreographed) to disguise at least some of her body.

3. Float

Yes, I laughed at that picture of GaGa taking a tumble in the airport wearing those silly boots. They might look, um, striking, but they're not exactly practical for walking. I reckon she will get them fitted with anti-gravity drives so that she can float around and still wear her silly boots.

8 Most Important Features I Look For In A Flat …

Posted: 23 Jan 2011 10:22 AM PST

8 Most Important Features I Look For In A Flat …

I've moved flats quite a few times, and have now settled in a small but comfortable flat that ticks just about all the boxes for me (except that I don't own it!). One advantage of having lived in various places is that I was able to work out what mattered most to me. It's hard to find the perfect place, but since it will be your home it's important to know what you really need to be comfortable. Here are the features I look for.

1. Light

Many flats in Barcelona are in old, cramped buildings with very little natural light. I've lived in this type of place and found it just too depressing. Natural light is important for your well-being, and as I spend a lot of time working on the computer it's also kinder on my eyes.

2. Quiet

Although I'm near a main road, my flat is at the back of the building and therefore shielded from traffic noise. I've become used to a certain amount of noise when it's summer and I have the windows open, but I couldn't live in a district where there was a lot of nightlife or noise going on.

3. Location

I like living fairly centrally, so that I am within easy walking distance of a lot of amenities. Anonymous suburbs aren't right for me, as I'm a city person. I like to be somewhere that has a lot of character, and doesn't involve a long trip home after a night out.

7 Tips on Finding the Right Bra …

Posted: 23 Jan 2011 09:47 AM PST

7 Tips on Finding the Right Bra …

Wearing a good bra can add volumes (pardon the pun) to your appearance which is why finding the right bra is as critical as wearing the right clothes. It's not a pretty sight to see woman wearing a top through which you can see her skin bursting through her bra straps. Here are 7 tips on how you can go about finding the right bra.

1. Get your size right

You've probably read or heard about this a million times but it's true. Wearing the right bra size is critical to a comfortable and attractive bra-wearing experience. You may think you are a certain size but if you've gained weight, gone through a baby or two or lost a large amount of weight, its time to check your size again.

2. Get the right material

An important step towards finding the right bra is to choose the appropriate material. It is best if it is porous in some way so that your skin can breathe through the bra. If not, then you will sweat which will cause unsightly patches or worse, embarrassing body odor.

3. Choose colors that suit your personality and taste

There are so many choices out there for bra designs and colors. You could go for the lacy nylon ones, or the sturdy cotton ones or the brightly colored sporty ones. While finding the right bra look for something that matches your personality and taste. You may also want to choose something your boyfriend or husband especially likes.

8 Ways to Get Inside a Guy’s Mind …

Posted: 23 Jan 2011 07:06 AM PST

8 Ways to Get Inside a Guy’s Mind …

I have 8 ways to get inside a guy's mind. Of course, these are not guaranteed to work and this is only my opinion. You may want to take some time to read what I have to say.

8. Hitting on You

Sometimes, it is hard to tell if a guy is hitting on you. When you first meet him, if he positions his shoulders and chest towards you, then chances are high that he is hitting on you – even if he is saying otherwise with his words. Body language tells a lot about someone.

7. Approach Him Carefully

When you approach him, you should do so carefully. Why? Because you want to make them feel comfortable with talking to you. Do not push for answers – let it come comfortably.

6. Accept Insights Uncritically

Try not to toss your opinion around and criticize the guy. You are trying to get inside their mind, because you believe they have information you need. Therefore, don't be critical or argue.

8 Signs She’s Not a Cheater …

Posted: 23 Jan 2011 06:07 AM PST

8 Signs She’s Not a Cheater …

There are so many blogs out there full of "signs she is a cheater and signs he is a cheater." I figured that we need to have a blog of 8 signs she's not a cheater. You know, because there are people, like myself, out there that do not cheat. When I type in "signs she's not a cheater" in Google, do you know what I come up with? Signs she is a cheater. So, let's make this one special …

8. Sex Life is Good

Face it, your sex life is good. If it were dull and no exciting or you didn't have one at all, then I would understand if you thought she was cheating. However, your sex life is just as good as it was yesterday and the day before – no wait, it's better!

7. Loves Cooking You Dinner

Come on, if she didn't like you and was cheating, then she would not enjoy slaving over the stove just to see a big smile on your face. She knows the saying that a way to a guys heart is through his food.

6. Loves Being Around You

If a girl loves being around you, then it is safe to assume that she is not cheating. However, if she gets aggravated at the mere sight of you, then of course, this would not be a great sign.

8 Tips on Bathing Your Feline …

Posted: 23 Jan 2011 02:39 AM PST

8 Tips on Bathing Your Feline …

Anyone who has bathed a cat knows how much of a hassle and a hazard this task can be. Cats don't respond in quite the same way that dogs do when they are told a basic command, such as sit, stay, or stop. Thankfully giving your cat a bath isn't something that is usually carried out regularly. Here are 8 tips on bathing your feline, in case you find yourself needing to wash a less than clean cat.

8. Have everything ready before you begin

This tip should be common sense, but I'll add it to the list anyway. Who wants to flounder about trying to find the shampoo with a wet and angry cat in hand? Make sure the shampoo, towels, brush, and anything else you will need to bathe your cat are all right where you can easily reach them.

7. Use the proper shampoo

If you have to bathe your cat, you probably have a specific reason for taking on this challenge. For instance, if fleas are an issue, then make sure the shampoo is medicated and will kill fleas, as well as flea eggs. Using the jasmine scented shampoo, which you normally use in the shower, on your flea-ridden cat probably won't be great for getting rid of the fleas. Sure, Miss Kitty will smell fantastic, but she'll still be itching like crazy and angrier that she is now wet and itchy.

6. Test the water before you pour it on the cat

Having a sink or shower that has one of those hand-held sprayers attached to it makes bathing the cat much easier. This feature will enable you to prepare the water temperature before drenching your cat. If you have to place the water in a pitcher before pouring it on your kitty, then make sure the temp isn't too hot or too cold. Test the water temp on your wrist or forearm, not with a finger or hand.

7 Tips on Finding Motivation to Go to College …

Posted: 23 Jan 2011 02:25 AM PST

7 Tips on Finding Motivation to Go to College …

I know not everyone is cut out for college. I've heard a few really lame reasons for not attending college and for not even attempting to enroll in at least one or two classes. If you find yourself having doubts about college or needing a boost towards getting started in college, then these 7 tips on finding motivation to go to college might help.

7. Kids are a great motivational tool

If you are already a parent, but haven't been able to complete a college degree, then this should be excellent motivation for getting back into the swing of taking classes. Completing a college degree is the best way you can help your kids have a better future. Not only will you be able to provide them with more by being better qualified for jobs, but

6. Think about how fast technology is advancing

The ideas that people come up with daily happen at an alarming rate. Just thinking about the new jobs being created and the old ones that are being updated is enough to make me look into what types of college courses I should be enrolling in. The only way to keep up with the requirements necessary for the job market is by going to college. Very few occupations are able to be applied for by individual with only a high school degree.

5. Be a good role model for others

Maybe you have a younger sibling who looks up to you. Setting a good example for this sibling will not only help your brother or sister make a better life for him/herself, but you will also feel a sense of accomplishment. Parents always try to steer their kids in the right direction. Sometimes it takes a sibling or good friend to demonstrate a particular behavior for kids to take interest. Showing a sibling or friend that going to college is a good thing just might get them off on the right foot as well.

15 Funny Reasons to Date a Musician …

Posted: 23 Jan 2011 12:41 AM PST

15 Funny Reasons to Date a Musician …

Have you ever dated a musician? Have you ever wished to date one? I have and, honestly, it's not all chimes and sweet harp music. But, no need to talk about that now because this post is all about musician jokes. So here's a few funny reason why they would make great boyfriends:

1. Date a musician, or even better, a guitarist for no special reason

Why? Because he has a great finger coordination and doesn't stop until the show is over.

2. In case you're shy, try dating a pro guitarist

Why? Because pro guitarist know what they are doing. In fact, they know it so good, they don't even have to look.

3. If you're picky, you can just date any musician passionate about what he does

Why? Because they always keep their instruments in pristine condition. Definitely a good thing.

4. Date them even if you don't want any emotional attachment

Why? Because they are ready to perform for anybody that is willing to pay. LOL! No offence, please.

7 Tips on Learning How to Say No …

Posted: 23 Jan 2011 12:18 AM PST

7 Tips on Learning How to Say No …

Have you recently said yes to something only to find yourself sitting there with a tightness in your chest as you wish you would of said the opposite? At times, I find it hard to say no to people as well, but the word "no" is something we certainly have to use from time to time. Below, I am going to give you 7 tips on learning how to say no …

7. Recognize You Do Not Have Much Time

There is not much time in the day to say yes to everything that comes your way. If you spend your time doing everything someone asks you to do, then you are not going to have enough time to do things for yourself. Perhaps thinking this way will help you learn to say no?

6. Remember a Request is Simply a Request

Just because someone asks you to do something, that does not mean that you have to. They are simply asking you. If you really can't do it, then say no to them. If they have a hissy over it, then they're no worth it anyways.

5. Offer an Alternative Solution

You could always go ahead and offer the individual an alternative solution when you tell them no. This way, you are not completely blowing them off. As an example, you cannot go with them on Saturday, but you are available next Saturday for them. Remember, you should only say this if you really are available and if you really want to do their request.

7 Things to Do in January …

Posted: 22 Jan 2011 12:12 PM PST

7 Things to Do in January …

As January comes, and the excitement of Christmas and New Year’s leaves, it’s so easy to get into the cabin fever slump. So, what’s a girl to do with hours of free time on her hands and too much cold outside? Here are seven things to do this month!

1. Plan!

Plan!
Photo Credit: Dysartian

What better time than now – in the cold winter months – to plan for your summer vacation? Start searching the internet and getting plans ready for the vacation of vacations! You’ll have plenty of time to start saving for it, and picking up things you’ll need along the way! And it will give you something to look forward to!

2. Cook A New Dish

Cook A New Dish
Photo Credit: Flash Parker

I don’t know about you, but it’s in the boring, winter months that I love to cook the most. It seems to be a tradition of mine, every winter, to try a new dish – something I’ve never cooked before. So, why don’t you try it? Pull out your cookbooks, and find something that appeals to you, then get to cooking!

3. Have a Girls Movie Night

Have a Girls Movie Night
Photo Credit: Cem K. (iyiinsan)

So what if you’re married! Kick the hubby out for a while and have a girl’s chick flick movie night. Grab the popcorn and the chips, and scrunch together for a great movie! Paint each other’s nails too! Having a relaxing evening with the girls is a great stress reliever!

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