Senin, 07 Maret 2011

Today's Obsessions

Today's Obsessions


15 Home Hazards to Look Out For …

Posted: 07 Mar 2011 11:18 AM PST

15 Home Hazards to Look Out For …

The home is where we go when we want to feel safe and secure. Within the confines of our homes, we feel that nothing bad can get to us. But did you know that there are hidden dangers that lurk within our homes? Yes, as much as we want to believe that the home is the safest place to be, there are many things inside that cause accidents and even deaths. Before you can protect your loved one from the common home hazards, you first need to know what they are. Take time to learn about the 15 common hazards found in most homes.

1. Overloaded circuits

You shouldn't plug in appliances that use a lot of power into the same outlet. It is recommended that one appliance should be plugged in per outlet. You should have an electrician check the wiring of your house to find out if you are in danger of having overloaded circuits. This consultation is usually free. You can then have your house rewired according to the professional's recommendations.

2. Frayed and exposed wiring

Another fire hazard is frayed and exposed wiring. Be sure to check the electrical wirings around your home and cover the exposed parts or have the wiring changed.

3. Open fires

If you have a fireplace at home, it would be best to have a fireguard. This will help contain the fire and prevent it from creating a full-blown inferno.

7 Ways To Boost Creativity …

Posted: 07 Mar 2011 10:41 AM PST

7 Ways To Boost Creativity …

Creativity is one of the greatest tools that humans have. While creativity is a broad term, everyone can be creative in their own unique way. Boosting your creativity can help improve various aspects of your life. Below are a few tips to get you started.

1. Live Well

Being creative is all about having a healthy mind. And the best way to a healthy mind is through a healthy body. Eat healthily, exercise regularly, and try and live as balanced a life as possible. Nourish and nurture your body to make the most of your creative muscle.

2. Broaden Your Horizons

Step outside of the box and challenge your current creative process. For example, if you are a writer, take up painting (and vice versa). Read about a topic that you normally wouldn't be interested in. Learn something new, no matter how small or trivial. It is all about keeping a healthy and active mind.

3. Stray From Routine

While routines help in streamlining day to day activities, they can also stifle creativity. When you get into a habit or routine, it can be hard to break free. Don't be afraid to make spur of the moment decisions. Variety is the spice of life, and this also applies to your creative process.

7 Cute Tops by Kensie Girl …

Posted: 07 Mar 2011 10:40 AM PST

7 Cute Tops by Kensie Girl …

My first experience with the design team at Kenise girl was with shoes, divine shoes. I fell in love with the brand before I even knew they made anything else, but once I discovered their other goodies, like skirts and tops, I became a loyal fan. If you love their shoes, and have yet to see their super-cute tops, keep reading! Here are 7 adorable tops by Kensie Girl.

1. Pleasant and Melon-choly Cardigan

Pleasant and Melon-choly Cardigan
Price: $39.99 at modcloth.com
What a gorgeous way to add a pop of color to an LBD or to a bland office ensemble! This dolman-sleeved cardi is a sweet melon color, sure to flatter every complexion. Wear it over a tank and skinny jeans, or a pretty floral-print dress. So cute!

2. Hey, Hot Stuff Sweater

Hey, Hot Stuff Sweater
Price: $58.99 at modcloth.com
What to wear, what to wear? You stand in front of your closet, already wearing a grey pencil skirt, patterned tights, and sleek black Mary Janes… ah yes! This gorgeous pink diamond-pattern knot sweatshirt, roomy and comfortable and still chic. Now just grab a slouchy scarf, a cute handbag, and you're all set!

3. Nori Salad Sweater

Nori Salad Sweater
Price: $48.99 at modcloth.com
This cute cardi is sure to bring out the blue of your eyes, or the green. It's also quite figure-flattering, with ruching down the front and a slinky curvy fit. Pair with plaid leggings or a floral-print kirt, add neutral shoes and a bag, and your prettiest pink lippie. Gorgeous!

8 Signs You’re Pursuing the Wrong Career …

Posted: 07 Mar 2011 10:14 AM PST

8 Signs You’re Pursuing the Wrong Career …

Your job is an important aspect of your life. It is where you spend a large portion of your day and is also the source of your income. If you are happy with your career, you will be happy at home because it means you're spending your days doing something that fulfils you. If you are not enjoying your work, it will reflect on your general demeanor and personal satisfaction. Here are 8 signs you're pursuing the wrong career.

1. You drag yourself to work everyday

If you find yourself dragging yourself to work today, looking forward to your dentist appointments and hoping you are sick every morning, then you are not enjoying your work. It is a sign that this career is probably not giving you what you are looking for in life.

2. You aren't good at your work

One of the reasons people enjoy their job is because they are good at it. Knowing that you excel at what you do makes you instantly happier about your job. Conversely, if you just can't get your head around what is expected of you, you will be unhappy. It's time to consider another career.

3. You hate talking about what you do

When you go for a party or a date, if the last thing you want to talk about is your job, then you aren't happy about what you're doing and probably need to consider a different line of work.

7 Adorable Jumpers …

Posted: 07 Mar 2011 10:12 AM PST

7 Adorable Jumpers …

From the time I was a little girl, I've loved the look and comfort of a pretty romper. They can be accessorized to be dressy or casual, and with the right layering pieces, can be worn year-round. I've been searching for a new jumper or two for the upcoming season, and I've found so many I love! Here are 7 adorable jumpers.

1. Spring Winds Romper

Spring Winds Romper
Price: $99.99 at modcloth.com
This gorgeous pink-and-blue floral-print romper is perhaps the first harbinger of spring, wearable with a cardigan and tights until the weather warms enough to wear it alone. Then you can remove the halter strap and wear it strapless, with a straw sunhat or over-sized sunglasses and flats.

2. Purple Rose of Cairo Romper

Purple Rose of Cairo Romper
Price: $37.99 at modcloth.com
Flaunt your feminine curves and your long, lean legs with this darling floral-print jumper. The wide, elastic smocked waist is flattering and comfortable, and the keyhole cutouts in back are sweet, so you're ready to add it to your shopping cart without hesitation. Pair with black ballet flats or lace-ups with anklets, and you've got the ideal spring-time ensemble.

3. Poconos Jumper in Wine

Poconos Jumper in Wine
Price: $60.00 at modcloth.com
Hiking in the woods isn't nearly as much fun without a hunky guide or this raspberry-colored jumper. You've stashed your GPS-enable cell phone in one of the hip pockets, just to be on the safe side, and you're wearing your most adorable lace-up booties and a slim-fit tee underneath, for comfort as well as style… now, did you remember to bring your insect repellant and sun block?

7 Ways to Show Respect to Others …

Posted: 07 Mar 2011 10:10 AM PST

7 Ways to Show Respect to Others …

I have noticed a lot of disrespectful people in this world and that has encouraged me to step out and write this blog. As if it is going to help any, because I know you girls are probably already respectful! I have noticed a lot of sweet comments in my blogs (yes, I read them, but I barely have time to comment, because I am so busy with writing). So, let me start by giving you 7 ways to show respect to others.

7. Maintain a Certain Volume in Public

I really do not like having loud disturbances when in a public area – like a restaurant or shopping. I believe you should keep your volume down so that the person that is on the other side of the store does not hear you. If you are talking on your cell phone, then remember everyone around you does not want to hear your conversation. It’s disrespectful to be loud and annoying.

6. Try to Avoid Walking on a Mopped Floor

I have witnessed this way too many times. Just the other day, I saw a guy mop the floor and put a wet floor sign up with an arrow indicating that they need to go around in. The girl came in, didn’t even wipe her feet and walked right on the freshly mopped floor. I think this is very rude. So, to show respect, try to avoid walking on that mopped floor. At least, wipe your feet first.

5. Don’t Go in a Store When It’s About to Close in 2 Minutes

When a store is about to close at 7pm, don’t go in there at 6:55 PM and expect it to stay open just for you. Mind your manners.

7 Random Things To Do This Week …

Posted: 07 Mar 2011 10:06 AM PST

7 Random Things To Do This Week …

Do you feel that your life has fallen into a routine? Every day you go to work, eat lunch in the same place, talk to the same people, and watch TV when you come home? Do you feel the need to introduce something different into your life? This doesn't have to involve major alterations in your habits; even small changes can make life just that bit more interesting. So here are some ideas for things to try this week. They all involve an element of randomness, so that you can be open to something you wouldn't have considered otherwise. Try them!

1. A Word A Day

It's always good to expand your vocabulary – not only does it improve your chances of completing the crossword, but you will also look incredibly intelligent when you use words that nobody else understands. Here's how to do it. Every day, flick through the dictionary and open a page at random. Find a word that you like the look of, or that has an interesting definition – and bonus points if you manage to get it into the conversation!

2. Start A Conversation

Many of us don't like talking to strangers, in case they think we're one of those crazy people that talks to strangers, but I've had some really interesting chats with people I've never met before and will never see again. At the very least, you can pass the time of day with someone, but you may also find that you have something in common and become friends! And without that conversation it wouldn't have happened!

3. Choose A Class

Are you always saying you're going to do an evening class (like me)? Grab a brochure from your local adult education centre and flick through – but instead of choosing something, try picking a class at random. If your finger lands on a class that's really not to your taste, just try again.

Top 7 Industries for Women …

Posted: 07 Mar 2011 10:03 AM PST

Top 7 Industries for Women …

More and more women make their way into the workforce. What was once considered to be a 'man's world' has now become a place where women can make their occupational dreams come true. I've posted a list below of the top 7 industries for women. Next to each industry I've made a note of the approximate percentage of women working in each one.

7. Pharmaceutical Manufacturing – over 45 percent

The percentage of women in this field is lower than many others, but the annual earnings are nearly $45,000. This type of industry includes jobs involving actual manufacturing of pharmaceuticals, sales, management, clerical positions, information technology, being a consultant for business interested in buying or selling pharmaceuticals, and distribution of products.

6. Advertising – over 50 percent

Jobs that fall into this category include; sales, management, customer service, marketing, business development, retail, finance, and consulting. Women in advertising make an average of $38,000.

5. Accommodations – over 55 percent

Even though the percentage of women in this field is well over half, the annual income is very low. The average is only slightly over $18,000. Jobs under this category include anything to do with hotel hospitality, motel management, or customer service within any type of business involving accommodations.

7 Things Not to Do When Kissing …

Posted: 07 Mar 2011 09:50 AM PST

7 Things Not to Do When Kissing …

Kissing is always fun to do – I still remember my first kiss – I think those are things that you will never forget. My husband and I like to talk about our first kiss (with each other, of course). Kissing is romantic and it can really set the mood. Of course, there are some things that you should avoid doing or saying when the two of you are engaged in this intimate moment. Below, I am going to give you 7 things not to do when kissing …

7. Don't Charge with Your Tongue Sticking Out

This one could actually gross the person out. Instead, put your lips together, then insert the tongue. I know, it sounds funny, but that is how it is done. This way, we don't actually see the tongue.

6. Don't Keep Pulling Away

Of course, this if you want to be kissed. If you don't want to be kissed, then you pull away and if that doesn't work, smack them. Now, if you actually want to be kissed by that person, then don't keep pulling away.

5. Oxygen

People hate it when you push too hard, shove your tongue down their throat and don't give enough oxygen. You should do it gently and give room for oxygen. While I said do not keep pulling away, there is a time you need oxygen, so use that time to gently kiss the neck.

7 Benefits of Laughter …

Posted: 07 Mar 2011 09:49 AM PST

7 Benefits of Laughter …

The health benefits associated with laughter are hard to judge scientifically. However, there are still plenty of studies and my personal feelings that have helped me devise the following list. Here are 7 benefits of laughter that anyone has access to. See what you think!

7. It can help you sleep better at night

Norman Cousin wrote a memoir where he discussed his own experience with the benefits of laughter. He was diagnosed with a spine condition that was extremely painful. He found that watching a series of comedies that kept him laughing for at least 10 minutes allowed him to sleep for a couple of hours without pain.

6. It makes you feel good all over

I have yet to feel crummy after a fit of laughter. Have you? I find that laughing makes me feel happier, livelier, and more positive about everything. My husband is very good at making me laugh, which I find is a very useful thing. My days seem to go much smoother when I have at least a chuckle about something.

5. Blood sugar levels are lowered

This benefit is great news for diabetics. A study was performed on a small group of 19 people. The study included feeding the people a meal and then having them attend a serious lecture right after. The same group was fed the exact same meal the next day and then instructed to watch a comedy. The surprising results were that the blood sugar levels of the entire group were lower after watching the comedy than they were after the tedious lecture.

7 Signs of a Disorganized Life …

Posted: 07 Mar 2011 09:13 AM PST

7 Signs of a Disorganized Life …

Do the days seem like they are getting shorter and shorter? Do you just feel like your whole life revolves around the things you need to do next? When was the last time you had a whole day for yourself? When was the last time you've seen your friends? Are you constantly postponing things that might waste that precious time of yours and how hard it is for you to quickly find the things you need? If the answers to these questions aren't as positive as you've expected, you might be suffering from a disorganized life disorder. Nothing to be afraid of, my ladies, it's just a state of complete confusion you need to snap out of ASAP. Here's some signs that suggest you life could use some order:

1. You can't find the things you need

You have a ton of nice clothes and you're stuck wearing just two or three different outfits? Why? Because you don't have enough time to dig through that mountain of clean, uncategorized laundry! If the same can be said for your makeup, personal documents and other items you often use, you my dear, have a problem. Do this- set you stopwatch and try to find three items you wouldn't leave the house without in just one minute. If that seems like the mission impossible, it's time to bring some order into your living space. Less clutter around you means less clutter inside of you, too!

2. You don't have any free time

How often do you have time to go out and have a coffee, read a good book or engage in a DIY beauty and spa treatments? I'm asking about real free time, not the one you literally steal by slacking off, not doing the things you need to do. If the answer is, "Not very often", you need to reorganize your life a little bit. All work and no play make everybody a screaming hag!

7 Ways to Handle a Crush on a Co-worker …

Posted: 07 Mar 2011 09:10 AM PST

7 Ways to Handle a Crush on a Co-worker …

Crushes happen all over the place – and they can even happen in the office. This can be tricky, however, since a lot of workplaces frown on office romances. Crushes on a colleague have the potential to get messy as well, for a variety of reasons. There are so many things to consider, but here are some techniques that can help you handle a crush on a co-worker.

1. Stay Professional

Above all else, you have to stay professional in the workplace. If you start behaving in an unprofessional way, then things can get very bad very quickly. By acting professional, however, you can keep things in perspective … and make sure that you keep your job. This is especially important if you don’t want your crush to know about your feelings.

2. Don’t Let Him/Her Walk All Over You

Some people are more than willing to take advantage of your crush feelings. And it is human nature to sort of dote on people you like and care about, so you might be tempted to buy your crush lunch or coffee, pick up his or her dry cleaning, and so on. Furthermore, your crush might be perfectly willing to reap the benefits of that, even if he or she doesn’t necessarily feel the same way. That’s never awesome.

3. Look the Right Way

What this means is, you should try to avoid staring dreamily at your crush while you’re at work. Moony stares can reveal your feelings quicker than almost anything else. Besides, it’s unprofessional to stare like that – and it could lead to trouble.

7 Easy Ways To Say “I Forgive” …

Posted: 07 Mar 2011 08:58 AM PST

7 Easy Ways To Say “I Forgive” …

In some ways it seems harder to say, “I’m sorry” than it does to truly mean “I forgive”. Then again, I don’t know. Forgiveness is hard sometimes. There are things that seem almost unthinkable to be able to forgive someone for. And yet, we can if we try hard enough! When you’re ready to say, “I forgive you” and mean it, here are some ideas on how to go about that.

1. Write a Letter

Many times, it’s easier to get out everything we need and want to say when we write it down. So, grab a sheet of paper, and get to writing. Explain to this person in need of forgiveness that you were truly hurt and offended by what they done, but you have accepted their apology and forgive them. Don’t forget to tell them in this letter how much you love them and are thankful they’re in your life!

2. Smile

I have been in situations where I’ve offended someone and asked forgiveness. In some of these instances, I was immediately met with an “I forgive you” response, but somehow knew they really didn’t mean it. On other occasions, after telling them I was sorry, I was only met with a smile, and that was enough – I knew I had been forgiven. It’s not always in the words we say, but in how we conduct ourselves – a smile may be all they need to know we love and forgive them.

3. Send an Email

Even if it’s your spouse, go to Hallmark.com and grab a free e-card. Add a personal message saying all is forgiven. Simple, right? Hoops and Yoyo is sure to make them happy!

9 Reasons It’s Important to Have a Best Girlfriend …

Posted: 07 Mar 2011 08:57 AM PST

9 Reasons It’s Important to Have a Best Girlfriend …

Every girl needs a best girlfriend. Female friendship is so rich and rewarding, and I think that as you get older, it’s easy to forget that sometimes. I remember my best friend being the most important thing to me when I was younger. In fact, finding a best friend was always paramount. We would honor each other with best friend necklaces, the ones with those broken heart charms, where each girl gets one half. "Be Fri" said one side; "st ends," said the other half. You shared everything, you could always make each other feel better. There are so many reasons it’s important to have a best girlfriend, but here are my top 9.

1. Emotional Support

Women are known for the emotional support they can provide to anyone they love. That support goes into overdrive when you’re talking about a best girlfriend. She’s there for you whether you’re dealing with a broken heart or a bad day at work, whether you got passed over for a promotion or don’t feel your best – and you’re there for her as well, through all manner of tragedies, crises, and triumphs.

2. Honesty

Girls aren’t always honest with each other, even when they’re friends. A best girlfriend, however, a true BFF, will always be as honest as possible. With your BFF, you can trust in knowing that even if you don’t necessarily want to hear the whole truth, nothing will ever be bad enough to make the two of you break up your friendship for good.

3. Closeness

A best girlfriend can be like your sister. You can be completely close with her, in any number of ways. You can do everything together, say anything, and always stay close. She becomes a part of your extended family, and you become a part of hers.

7 Strange and Wonderful Animal Facts …

Posted: 07 Mar 2011 08:38 AM PST

7 Strange and Wonderful Animal Facts …

It would be really hard to sum up the animal kingdom. Imagine trying to explain a kangaroo or a penguin to an alien race. Creatures that taste with their feet, animals with four noses, marine life with three stomachs and birds that can fly backwards are just some of the wonders. Here are a few more:

1. A duck's quack has no echo

This is one of the great unknowns of the animal kingdom. Just imagine the number of ducks that have been made to quack in valleys, and caves, in bell jars and vacuums whilst the scientists try and figure it out.

2. A female ferret will actually die, if she can’t find a mate after going into heat

Maybe it's about time some dot.com entrepreneur started them a dating site. That would ferret out those slacking males.

3. The sweat glands of a cow are in its nose

Well, thank heavens for that. Imagine the smell if it sweated from its whole body. There's enough noxious gas from its bottom already.

7 of My Favourite Literary Characters …

Posted: 07 Mar 2011 08:36 AM PST

7 of My Favourite Literary Characters …

Ladies, I love to read. My whole life I've had a major passion for books – from the great classics to serious candyfloss chick lit – so I decided I'd share my 7 all time-favourite literary characters with you. Some of them you'll know I'm sure, but one or two are a little more obscure …

1. Rebecca from Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier

And no, ladies, it's not just because we share a name! In the novel, we never get to meet this enigmatic female protagonist face to face but she permeates the pages as an almost ghostly 'other woman.' Rebecca is beautiful and dangerous, difficult and manipulative; in short, the ultimate femme fatale.

2. Elizabeth Bennet from Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

I know, girls, this one's a bit of a cliché. But good old Lizzy Bennet is a brilliantly written character, and one that remains surprisingly relevant today. She's way ahead of her time: a quick thinking, outspoken and clever 19th century heroine, who's eventually not afraid to admit her mistakes and make a move (albeit a very subtle one) on the guy she fancies.

3. Lord Henry Wotton from The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

I'm a really big fan of Oscar Wilde: I love his plays, his kid's stories, his letters: all of it. The Picture of Dorian Gray is fabulously dark little book and Lord 'Harry' Wotton is a wonderfully executed character, in many ways sharper and more fascinating that the novel's namesake. He's an acid-tongued, morally ambiguous Victorian manipulator of impressionable youth and our inability quite to fathom him out helps to make the novel the masterpiece that it is.

7 Ways to Create an Interesting Bath …

Posted: 07 Mar 2011 07:58 AM PST

7 Ways to Create an Interesting Bath …

Soaking oneself in a luxurious bath filled with aromatic oils and herbs can be a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. Fortunately you don't have to go to a fancy hotel or enlist for a spa package to enjoy it. You can create an enticing bath right in your own home by putting together some basic bath oil recipes. Here are 7 ways to create an interesting bath.

1. Almond bath

This simple and luxurious concoction is ideal for those who enjoy the intoxicating scent of almonds. All you need is 4 ounces of almond oil and a few drops of your favorite perfume. Mix them in a jar and leave it over night. When you are ready to soak in this concoction, drop a couple of teaspoons into your bath water and soak in the natural oils as they circle around you.

2. Aromatic bath

Preparing an aromatic bath requires understanding which essential oils appeal to you. There are quite a few – like lavender, rose, lemon, yarrow and citrus. Take about 10 drops of your favorite aromatic oil and combine it with 2 teaspoons of plain vegetable oil. Mix it well in a covered jar and set-aside until ready for use. The aromatic fragrances of the essential oils will intoxicate your senses as you soak in the luxurious bath water.

3. Honey and milk bath

This bath recipe requires a little more work than the first two but is well worth the effort. Take a cup of honey and mix in 2 cups of milk. Add 2 teaspoons of baking powder and a cup of rock salt. Mix everything by hand and then place under running water as your tub is filling. Just before entering, add half a cup of baby oil and a few drops of your favorite perfume. The end result will be silky smooth skin and a rejuvenated mind.

Kate Middleton Chooses McQueen?

Posted: 07 Mar 2011 05:50 AM PST

Kate Middleton Chooses McQueen?

The Sunday Times is reporting that soon-to-be princess Kate Middleton has chosen British designer Sarah Burton at Alexander McQueen to design her wedding gown.

 Burton denies it, but it’s tradition for everything surrounding royal wedding gowns to be kept top-secret. No-one’s speculating on the details, but given Middleton’s exquisite taste, and Burton’s elegant yet trendy style, a gown designed for Middleton by Burton is bound to be gorgeous. I suppose we’ll all have to wait until the big day on April 29 to find out for sure… stay tuned!

Happy Birthday, Rachel and Jenna!

Posted: 07 Mar 2011 02:34 AM PST

Happy Birthday, Rachel and Jenna!

I’d like to wish a very happy birthday to two of my favorite actresses, sultry Rachel Weisz and the adorable Jenna Fisher. These two lovely ladies share a March 7th birthday.  

Weisz starred in the haunting and beautiful “The Lovely Bones” and showed us all she can be brainy, beautiful, and bad-ass in “The Mummy” movies. And Jenna Fisher plays “Pam” in TV’s “The Office,” and stars alongside Owen Wilson in the new movie “Hall Pass.”

Weisz turns 41 today, and Fisher will be 37. Here’s to another marvelous year, ladies! I can’t wait to see what new projects you’ll work on in the year to come…

5 Things to Make You Smile …

Posted: 06 Mar 2011 08:31 PM PST

5 Things to Make You Smile …

1. Fun Prints for Spring

Take a look at the top photo and tell us if these clothes are not making you happy. I think I want them floral shorts and white sheer top.

2. The Best of the Ellen Show

Who here is not a fan of the Ellen Show? Of course you are! If you’re having a pretty bad day, here are videos that will keep you from going crazy.

3. Strange Superstitions

Sometimes, learning new things and realizing that they don’t make sense or kinda cool can make you smile. These funny superstitions are great examples.

4. Hot Workout Gear

You work out so that you’ll look great. It makes sense, then, that you look great while working out, right? Check out the link for haute workout gear.

5. Pretty Petunias

Petunies are gorgeous flowers. I love the variety in colors, too. If you want to have them blooming in your garden, read up on great tips.

I hope that these made your day just a tad better!

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