To all my readers, and especially my good bloggy friends.... I hope you have a Christmas filled with love, peace, and joy.
Thank you for making this 'blogging thing' such a wonderful pass time, and for all your support and encouragement! Special thanks to those who comment regularly, you frequently make my day!!
I'll be taking a bit of a 'blog break' for a few weeks to enjoy my holidays, but I'll be back online in the New Year to catch up with everyone and start posting again.
There'll be no Lovely Links for December, so store some great posts in your mind for January, and link up as many as you like then!!
Merry Christmas everyone!
Linda. xox
******
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Make a Ginger Bread House
Nothing lights up a child's eyes like the sight of a gingerbread house at Christmas. They love to help make them, too. Making gingerbread houses are fun and messy, but they are one of the best decorations in the house. You can put one together quickly, or you can take you're time and have a gingerbread castle masterpiece. Get a bunch of different candies, and make this edible, delightful project this holiday season.
1. Make a pattern for your house with cardboard. You can make the house look any way you want, but a standard house has two walls with peaks, two flat side walls and two roof pieces. Your chimney will be one piece shorter than the other, and the two side pieces will be angled. You will only need one pattern piece per different wall or chimney.
2. Roll out your dough on a piece of wax paper covered with a dusting of flour. Dust the top with flour, and roll out to 1/4 inch thick. Use a sharp knife to cut out all the pieces you need to make your house. You can cut out for a door and window or use decoration to form them later. Place them on a cookie sheet, and bake at 350 degrees. Take your smaller pieces out in about 6 or 7 minutes and the larger ones at 10 to 11 minutes. When the edges start to darken, they are done. Place your pieces on a wire rack, and let them cool. The pieces need to be completely cooled off and hard, you may want to wait until the following day to put them together.
3. Cover a tray with foil and start to build your house. Put icing on the tray where you are going to put your house. It doesn't have to be just at the bottom of the pieces--put it all over so the pieces will stick in it. Fill a pastry bag with white icing. If you don't have a pastry bag, use a plastic sandwich bag and cut the corner off at an angle. Squeeze the icing onto one side of a wall, and stand it up in the icing on the tray. Put the next wall in the icing on the first wall, and work your way around, gluing all the wall together with the icing. Now put the icing on the top of the walls, and put on half of your roof. Put icing on the peak of the roof, and put on the other half. Go over your joints again with icing, making sure they will stay together. Put your chimney together with icing, and stick on the roof.
4. Cut rounded-edge crackers in half, put icing on the backs, and place them on the roof for shingles, starting at the bottom of the roof. Press down lightly so you don't cave in the roof. Put more icing at the top where the flat edges join. Use your icing to put on the candies and decorate. A common gingerbread house has gum drops around the edges of the roof and icing around the doors and windows. You can use candy canes to highlight your door or run a bead of small candies around it. Try to get some icing to hang off the corner of the roof to look like ice. Be creative and have fun with it.
5. Crush Oreo cookies until they are really small pieces. Mix the crushed cookies in with the chocolate icing, and place around the outside of the house. Use the white icing to make snow drifts against one side of the house. Put some Christmas tree lolly pops in the yard by cutting their sticks down and sticking them in the yard mixture. Create a gum drop walkway up to your house. When you are finished with all the decoration, let the house sit and dry. Don't leave it in your kitchen, because the heat and humidity from cooking will make it take longer to dry.
1. Make a pattern for your house with cardboard. You can make the house look any way you want, but a standard house has two walls with peaks, two flat side walls and two roof pieces. Your chimney will be one piece shorter than the other, and the two side pieces will be angled. You will only need one pattern piece per different wall or chimney.
2. Roll out your dough on a piece of wax paper covered with a dusting of flour. Dust the top with flour, and roll out to 1/4 inch thick. Use a sharp knife to cut out all the pieces you need to make your house. You can cut out for a door and window or use decoration to form them later. Place them on a cookie sheet, and bake at 350 degrees. Take your smaller pieces out in about 6 or 7 minutes and the larger ones at 10 to 11 minutes. When the edges start to darken, they are done. Place your pieces on a wire rack, and let them cool. The pieces need to be completely cooled off and hard, you may want to wait until the following day to put them together.
3. Cover a tray with foil and start to build your house. Put icing on the tray where you are going to put your house. It doesn't have to be just at the bottom of the pieces--put it all over so the pieces will stick in it. Fill a pastry bag with white icing. If you don't have a pastry bag, use a plastic sandwich bag and cut the corner off at an angle. Squeeze the icing onto one side of a wall, and stand it up in the icing on the tray. Put the next wall in the icing on the first wall, and work your way around, gluing all the wall together with the icing. Now put the icing on the top of the walls, and put on half of your roof. Put icing on the peak of the roof, and put on the other half. Go over your joints again with icing, making sure they will stay together. Put your chimney together with icing, and stick on the roof.
4. Cut rounded-edge crackers in half, put icing on the backs, and place them on the roof for shingles, starting at the bottom of the roof. Press down lightly so you don't cave in the roof. Put more icing at the top where the flat edges join. Use your icing to put on the candies and decorate. A common gingerbread house has gum drops around the edges of the roof and icing around the doors and windows. You can use candy canes to highlight your door or run a bead of small candies around it. Try to get some icing to hang off the corner of the roof to look like ice. Be creative and have fun with it.
5. Crush Oreo cookies until they are really small pieces. Mix the crushed cookies in with the chocolate icing, and place around the outside of the house. Use the white icing to make snow drifts against one side of the house. Put some Christmas tree lolly pops in the yard by cutting their sticks down and sticking them in the yard mixture. Create a gum drop walkway up to your house. When you are finished with all the decoration, let the house sit and dry. Don't leave it in your kitchen, because the heat and humidity from cooking will make it take longer to dry.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Mayline Brighton Series Reception Station BT27
The Brighton Series is Mayline's most affordable, complete line of REAL Office casegoods. With all laminate construction, it provide the durability and affordability you would expect, but with an added sense of style. Brighton is available in attractive Mocha and Cherry finishes. The reception station pictured is priced at $542.99 and is an excellent value for the money. The Brighton series offers a full line of matching office furniture including executive desks and conference tables to match.
Typical Includes:
(1) BTRD7236 Rectangular Desk - 72"W x 36"D
(1) BTRDTC Reception Counter
(1) BTBF20 Suspended Pedestal
glass door design wallpapers
glass door design |
glass door design |
glass door design |
glass door design |
glass door design |
Keep Freezing Faucets Running
The process of freezing water is very fast, so if you don't catch it quickly, there is a high possibility of having your pipes freeze. The attic is the most vulnerable location for pipes to freeze and crack, so make sure to have a generous amount of insulation for protection. Make yourself aware of oncoming weather conditions, so you will know when your pipes might freeze. Your first line of defense is to leave a gentle stream of water flowing overnight, keeping pipes
active and preventing an ice blockage.
1. Touch the surface of the pipeline from the faucet down. Determine which area of the pipe is most frigid, and if there are any water leaks in the pipe. This is where you will install the tape and insulation.
2. Take the heat tape and begin to coil it around the pipe. Create a single layer of tape, all the way down the pipe. Be careful not to overlap it on itself. Most home fires are caused by poor installation of heat tape.
3. Apply strips of electrical tape on top of the heat tape to secure it in place. Space the electrical tape at even intervals on top of the heat tape. Do not leave any bunches of tape or extra layers. Slide the insulation sleeve onto the pipe, over the heat tape to conceal it from display.
4. Cover the insulation sleeve with waterproof wrap, if not already purchased that way, and plug the cord of the heat tape into your wall socket. Make sure to have it plugged in prior to the days of the coldest weather. Be sure not to plug heat tape into an extension cord that's plugged into a wall; it must be plugged in directly to avoid a risk of fire.
active and preventing an ice blockage.
1. Touch the surface of the pipeline from the faucet down. Determine which area of the pipe is most frigid, and if there are any water leaks in the pipe. This is where you will install the tape and insulation.
2. Take the heat tape and begin to coil it around the pipe. Create a single layer of tape, all the way down the pipe. Be careful not to overlap it on itself. Most home fires are caused by poor installation of heat tape.
3. Apply strips of electrical tape on top of the heat tape to secure it in place. Space the electrical tape at even intervals on top of the heat tape. Do not leave any bunches of tape or extra layers. Slide the insulation sleeve onto the pipe, over the heat tape to conceal it from display.
4. Cover the insulation sleeve with waterproof wrap, if not already purchased that way, and plug the cord of the heat tape into your wall socket. Make sure to have it plugged in prior to the days of the coldest weather. Be sure not to plug heat tape into an extension cord that's plugged into a wall; it must be plugged in directly to avoid a risk of fire.
Monday, December 20, 2010
The Newest Additon At My Place - Introducing.....
Frederick!!
My mum gave him to me for my birthday a few weeks back.
Isn't he grand?! :)
We'd spotted him around two months ago when we were both out together browsing through a huge flea market near Ballarat, and I just had to have him, so mum offered to make him my birthday present.
Perfect!
He was named on the spot, and then I had to wait nearly two whole months to get him.
My partner says he's somehow ugly and cute at the same time.... which I sort of 'get'.
But I think he's just downright gorgeous!
I speak to him and pat him on the head, and he always looks like he's got something really witty and insightful to say back.
He generally resides in the kitchen where I can see him a lot of the time, and is also visible as soon as you get inside the front door!
A lovely way to be greeted. :)
Linda. xox
******
My mum gave him to me for my birthday a few weeks back.
Isn't he grand?! :)
We'd spotted him around two months ago when we were both out together browsing through a huge flea market near Ballarat, and I just had to have him, so mum offered to make him my birthday present.
Perfect!
He was named on the spot, and then I had to wait nearly two whole months to get him.
My partner says he's somehow ugly and cute at the same time.... which I sort of 'get'.
But I think he's just downright gorgeous!
I speak to him and pat him on the head, and he always looks like he's got something really witty and insightful to say back.
He generally resides in the kitchen where I can see him a lot of the time, and is also visible as soon as you get inside the front door!
A lovely way to be greeted. :)
Linda. xox
******
tv stands images
tv stands |
tv stands |
tv stands |
tv stands |
Wrap Gifts Creatively
Though the gift is the important part of any occasion, don't be tempted just to throw it in a bag with a name on it. Try to be creative and give them a package that will make them smile before they even know what is inside.
1. Use baubles and gadgets. For baby gifts, little pacifiers and baby spoons are adorable tied on with ribbon. For adults, you can tie earrings, tie clips, or funny little gadgets to the gift. At Christmas, you can tie ornaments and holly to the gift for a festive look.
2. Try a different box. Use a photo box or hat box as a gift container. These will give you room to play around with stuffing and ribbons to surround your gift.
3. Use something new to wrap the gift. Try cloth, brown paper, newspaper, or pictures printed on plain paper. Beginning with a fun back ground, you can spruce the package up with ribbon or glitter.
4. Create with your kids. A child's birthday party can be just as fun for the ones giving presents, as the one receiving them. Play around with different papers, glitters, glues and rhinestones. Your child will be proud to give a gift that they helped wrap and decorate.
5. Try money. For college and high school kids, the best bet may be money. Even if you are giving them socks and underwear, out of necessity, if you tie a twenty dollar bill to the outside of the package, they will be more than happy to accept the gift.
6. Wrap gifts together. If you can wrap different boxes separately, and then stack them and tie them with ribbon in a nice tiered shape, it is perfect for a wedding or holiday gift.
1. Use baubles and gadgets. For baby gifts, little pacifiers and baby spoons are adorable tied on with ribbon. For adults, you can tie earrings, tie clips, or funny little gadgets to the gift. At Christmas, you can tie ornaments and holly to the gift for a festive look.
2. Try a different box. Use a photo box or hat box as a gift container. These will give you room to play around with stuffing and ribbons to surround your gift.
3. Use something new to wrap the gift. Try cloth, brown paper, newspaper, or pictures printed on plain paper. Beginning with a fun back ground, you can spruce the package up with ribbon or glitter.
4. Create with your kids. A child's birthday party can be just as fun for the ones giving presents, as the one receiving them. Play around with different papers, glitters, glues and rhinestones. Your child will be proud to give a gift that they helped wrap and decorate.
5. Try money. For college and high school kids, the best bet may be money. Even if you are giving them socks and underwear, out of necessity, if you tie a twenty dollar bill to the outside of the package, they will be more than happy to accept the gift.
6. Wrap gifts together. If you can wrap different boxes separately, and then stack them and tie them with ribbon in a nice tiered shape, it is perfect for a wedding or holiday gift.
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Monday Music - Diamonds (Times Two)
This is where it all began (personally one of my fave articles ever!!).
Music is SO important to the happiness of my home. :)
Now most Monday mornings when the working week looms I'll try to post a fave song or some music I'm listening to at the moment to provide some musical motivation.
So my little groovers......... here's today's installment!
*****************************
Here's an oldie for you!! This one is from just before the 80's (1979 I think), and it's one of the songs I used to love singing very loudly to when I was around 14 years old! Some of you on the other side of the world mightn't know it?
Chris Rea... Diamonds!
And, whilst we're on the subject of 'diamonds'... here's another favourite song of mine from John Denver. I loved it the first time I heard it, and it's always been a song that just seems to have a certain sort of lilting refrain to it that sticks with me.
Some Days Are Diamonds, Some Days Are Stone...
Don't forget, if you're looking for more great music, Bec over at Memory Garden often has a lovely song to listen to on Mondays as well!
And, as always when thinking of our 'Musical Must Haves' section...
Ask yourself: 'Do I L.O.V.E music?'
Which leads to: 'Have I got enough of it in my home and in my life?'
******
The Original Musical Must Have:
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♥ Straight from me to YOU - subscribe!
♥ New to Heartfire At Home? Start here.
♥ And if, perchance, you BELIEVE.... join here.
******
Music is SO important to the happiness of my home. :)
Now most Monday mornings when the working week looms I'll try to post a fave song or some music I'm listening to at the moment to provide some musical motivation.
So my little groovers......... here's today's installment!
*****************************
Here's an oldie for you!! This one is from just before the 80's (1979 I think), and it's one of the songs I used to love singing very loudly to when I was around 14 years old! Some of you on the other side of the world mightn't know it?
Chris Rea... Diamonds!
And, whilst we're on the subject of 'diamonds'... here's another favourite song of mine from John Denver. I loved it the first time I heard it, and it's always been a song that just seems to have a certain sort of lilting refrain to it that sticks with me.
Some Days Are Diamonds, Some Days Are Stone...
Don't forget, if you're looking for more great music, Bec over at Memory Garden often has a lovely song to listen to on Mondays as well!
And, as always when thinking of our 'Musical Must Haves' section...
Ask yourself: 'Do I L.O.V.E music?'
Which leads to: 'Have I got enough of it in my home and in my life?'
Because: Good interior design caters to ALL our senses, not just our eyes.... that's why I call it 'Atmospheric Design' instead!
Linda. xox
******
The Original Musical Must Have:
******
♥ Let's talk on Twitter!
♥ Straight from me to YOU - subscribe!
♥ New to Heartfire At Home? Start here.
♥ And if, perchance, you BELIEVE.... join here.
******
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Christmas Lights Hazard Safety
Christmas lights are a holiday tradition for many Americans, but they can be hazardous if not used and maintained properly. Taking simple steps can reduce the likelihood of accidents and injuries associated with Christmas lights.
Selecting Lights
When shopping for Christmas lights, look for labels indicating that the lights have been tested by an independent testing laboratory such as UL or ETL/ITSNA.
Inspecting Lights
Inspect light strands for signs of poor condition such as broken or frayed wires and broken sockets. Discard damaged sets rather than trying to repair them. Broken lights can cause fires or electrocution.
Bubble Lights
The Consumer Product Safety Council (CPSC) warns against using "bubble lights" around children because they could accidentally break the bulbs open and release the toxic liquid inside, or sustain cuts from the broken glass.
Extension Cords
The U.S. Fire Administration recommends connecting no more than three light strands together unless directions specifically state that it is safe to add more.
A Simple Room With Lots Of Pattern..... I Love It!!
Some people are afraid to use pattern in their rooms... I think it induces some sort of pattern matching anxiety!
There are a few key things to remember when mixing and matching different patterns, and 'pattern stage fright' can be a thing of the past if you wish it to be!
I like this room below. There's so many different patterns - in the back of the fireplace, the inlaid chests of drawers, the throw on the sofa, the print on the cushions and the upholstered coffee table/ottoman.
The stacking of the logs so their ends show off a pattern of circles is a great touch against the backdrop of the zig-zag lines in the fireplace. Love it!
The gorgeous pattern in the ceiling, the shaped indent in the wall above the fireplace, the shape of the arched window and the window panes, the triangular bases of the lamps, and the barley twist legs of the table/ottoman, also play into the geometric/ethnic pattern 'aesthetic' that's holding the room together.
The touch of the leafy branches, and bright pops of colour via the window furnishings, rug, and other cushions etc. finishes the room off nicely and adds contrast.
All in all, an eclectic, yet simple room that I find strangely attractive.
I must admit however, I have an interesting feeling of wanting to paint the ceiling a darker colour.... not really dark, but a soft green/grey maybe? Perhaps just the actual flat ceiling itself, (up inside the detail).
I somehow feel it would take the edge off the bright citrine colour of the blinds and curtains, and the stark brightness of these combined with the white. It would sort of cap it all off more gently, and soften the visuals somewhat.
Hmmm, that's got me thinking about doing the walls in a soft colour..... I could have some fun with that room.
What do you think?
Linda. xox
******
There are a few key things to remember when mixing and matching different patterns, and 'pattern stage fright' can be a thing of the past if you wish it to be!
I like this room below. There's so many different patterns - in the back of the fireplace, the inlaid chests of drawers, the throw on the sofa, the print on the cushions and the upholstered coffee table/ottoman.
The stacking of the logs so their ends show off a pattern of circles is a great touch against the backdrop of the zig-zag lines in the fireplace. Love it!
The gorgeous pattern in the ceiling, the shaped indent in the wall above the fireplace, the shape of the arched window and the window panes, the triangular bases of the lamps, and the barley twist legs of the table/ottoman, also play into the geometric/ethnic pattern 'aesthetic' that's holding the room together.
The touch of the leafy branches, and bright pops of colour via the window furnishings, rug, and other cushions etc. finishes the room off nicely and adds contrast.
All in all, an eclectic, yet simple room that I find strangely attractive.
I must admit however, I have an interesting feeling of wanting to paint the ceiling a darker colour.... not really dark, but a soft green/grey maybe? Perhaps just the actual flat ceiling itself, (up inside the detail).
I somehow feel it would take the edge off the bright citrine colour of the blinds and curtains, and the stark brightness of these combined with the white. It would sort of cap it all off more gently, and soften the visuals somewhat.
Hmmm, that's got me thinking about doing the walls in a soft colour..... I could have some fun with that room.
What do you think?
Linda. xox
******
Friday, December 17, 2010
Holiday Window Display Ideas
For most store owners, attractive window displays that capture customers attention are essential for holiday sales success. A creative window draws the eye and urges customers to step inside the shop. Not only shops but homes and offices also dress up the front windows for added flair during the holiday season. Use your creativity and step out of the box to come up with a successful window display that makes your window stand out.
Religious Display
Select a religious theme for the window display in accordance to the items you sell and your customer base. Depict the religious scene that celebrates the birth of Christ. Use props positioned appropriately so that the scene tells the story on its own. If your customers include Jews or African-Americans, include a note of their religious holidays that fall near Christmas. Include a dreidel to impress Jews, or string black, green and red lights or crepe paper near the sides of the windows to celebrate the African American holiday of Kwanzaa.
Traditional Display
Celebrate your holiday window in a traditional scene that depicts Santa Claus, his sleigh, reindeer, elves making toys and the spirit of gift giving. Add a comical note to the display with a scene of Santa or a reindeer fanning himself on a beach chair if you live in Miami to capture attention. Alternatively, consider a scene with dangling snowflakes from the ceiling and eager children watching the first snowfall if it snows in your area. The idea is to use your imagination and make passersby think.
Modern Display
Create a generic snow scene that is not limited to Christmas but extends from November to January, such as a winter wonderland. Use lots of props such as mannequins, snow, sledges, gifts, a Christmas tree and a snowman to depict the scene you have in mind. A generic display is a great option for store or homeowners who don't want to change the entire display once the season is over. Simple touches such as replacing the Christmas colored scarf from the snowman with a less holiday-oriented one and removing gifts from the sled prolong the display well into the beginning of the following year.
Decorative Accents
Whatever your theme, incorporate items in your window display that symbolize the holiday season such as lengths of twinkling lights suspended from the ceiling; tufts of snow or snowflakes suspended with fishing line; potted poinsettia plants, wreaths or garlands; candelabras with tall green, red or white candles; paper reindeer; candy canes; Christmas trees and other decorative accents. These items liven up the display, fill up empty space, add color wherever needed and enhance interest at varying eye levels.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
1 Simple Thing - A Floating Feather...
I have a bit of a 'thing' about feathers. Not quite a fully fledged 'thing', but a 'thing' none-the-less.
I have a little collection of them in an orange vase on the bookcase in my living room.
Maybe it's because of my fascination with owls and the beautiful feathers they can have... maybe it's connected to my country wanderings as a child where I'd pick up all manner of things, including feathers of all sorts... or maybe it's because I used to love collecting the feathers that had fallen from our chooks as they went about their daily business.
Whatever the reason, pictures or items featuring feathers make me stop and stare.
I think they're beautiful.
Happy weekend everyone!
Linda. xox
******
Maybe it's because of my fascination with owls and the beautiful feathers they can have... maybe it's connected to my country wanderings as a child where I'd pick up all manner of things, including feathers of all sorts... or maybe it's because I used to love collecting the feathers that had fallen from our chooks as they went about their daily business.
Whatever the reason, pictures or items featuring feathers make me stop and stare.
I think they're beautiful.
Happy weekend everyone!
Linda. xox
******
OFM Round Metal Base Multi-Purpose Table
This 42" round table looks elegant in both lunch and meeting rooms and looks great with the model 310 stack chairs. The banding makes the edges smooth and gives it a finished appearance. The honeycomb core makes the table both lightweight and sturdy.
• Elegant mesh base
• 1 1/4" thick hi pressure laminate top with honeycomb core
• 3mm edge banding
• 29" high from the floor
• Excellent for lunch and meeting rooms
Dimensions:
Seat size: n/a
Back size: n/a
Seat height: n/a
Overall height: 29.5"
Overall width: 42" Round
Overall depth: 42" Round
Base size: Mesh X Base
Water Fountains - History Of Water Fountains
For every human being- water portrays a vital role for its existence and survival. Man can not exist exclusive of water in view of the fact that earth itself is made up of more water than land. Thats why; man has for eternity given grand reverence to water and even treated it as God. Even when we look back at the early times, majority of civilizations have been shaped in places where there was great quantity of water accessible for farming and cultivation, irrigation, drinking and bathing. Loads of battles have been fought and clashes arise even today over dissection of rivers and other water resources amid states and countries.
Hence, water is of great significance and no wonder why man uses it in its everyday activity no matter how grand or simple it is. Further than the indispensable uses of water in aspects like agriculture, water was used for adornment in the form of fountains. Historians draw attention that water fountains instigated in the ancient Middle East region, in particular in Egypt where gardens were found to be ornamented with water fountains. Roman and Persian cultures also included water fountains as part of their culture. The Mughals, who ruled in India had built many architectural wonders such as the Taj Mahal, and their gardens which were always bejeweled with flourishing and abundant trees and fountains. Mughal women are inclined to stay indoors most of the day and that's why these gardens and fountains were a basis of relaxation and leisure for them.
Fountains have always been an essential element of existence in the Far East countries akin to China, Japan etc where water is regarded as a form of energy in Feng shui.
In numerous countries, fountains have been the heart of social life. This would mean that people would draw together around them, while gathering water for drinking, cooking and bathing and many a romance, friendship and political schemes and plots are said to have risen from there.
In the beginning, Mother Nature has created many fountains with the natural flow of water due to gravity, commencing from the higher surfaces to lower surfaces. The geysers, which are found in national parks and waterfalls, are illustrations of nature created fountains. Soon after, with the discovery and development of hydraulic apparatus and gears, artificial water fountains were built. In the early days, the fountains were simple in design, with its main purpose of supplying water for everyday living. Afterward, they were also ornamented and adorned with statues, sculptures and figurines.
Up to date fountains have become more highly developed and sophisticated for they now offer musical fountains, fountains with colored lights and animated fountains and are used more like a showpiece. The Bellagio fountains in Las Vegas are a work of art in artificial fountains and never fail to captivate and charm the people.
Marble Water Fountains
Marble Water Fountains
Marble Water Fountains
In the present day, we notice that a lot of water fountains are being used basically all over the places from shopping complexes to hospitals, to business establishments and parks.Not only do they improve and boost the furnishings of the building, but they also bring relaxation and untainted delight to people.
Hence, water is of great significance and no wonder why man uses it in its everyday activity no matter how grand or simple it is. Further than the indispensable uses of water in aspects like agriculture, water was used for adornment in the form of fountains. Historians draw attention that water fountains instigated in the ancient Middle East region, in particular in Egypt where gardens were found to be ornamented with water fountains. Roman and Persian cultures also included water fountains as part of their culture. The Mughals, who ruled in India had built many architectural wonders such as the Taj Mahal, and their gardens which were always bejeweled with flourishing and abundant trees and fountains. Mughal women are inclined to stay indoors most of the day and that's why these gardens and fountains were a basis of relaxation and leisure for them.
Fountains have always been an essential element of existence in the Far East countries akin to China, Japan etc where water is regarded as a form of energy in Feng shui.
In numerous countries, fountains have been the heart of social life. This would mean that people would draw together around them, while gathering water for drinking, cooking and bathing and many a romance, friendship and political schemes and plots are said to have risen from there.
In the beginning, Mother Nature has created many fountains with the natural flow of water due to gravity, commencing from the higher surfaces to lower surfaces. The geysers, which are found in national parks and waterfalls, are illustrations of nature created fountains. Soon after, with the discovery and development of hydraulic apparatus and gears, artificial water fountains were built. In the early days, the fountains were simple in design, with its main purpose of supplying water for everyday living. Afterward, they were also ornamented and adorned with statues, sculptures and figurines.
Up to date fountains have become more highly developed and sophisticated for they now offer musical fountains, fountains with colored lights and animated fountains and are used more like a showpiece. The Bellagio fountains in Las Vegas are a work of art in artificial fountains and never fail to captivate and charm the people.
Marble Water Fountains
Marble Water Fountains
Marble Water Fountains
In the present day, we notice that a lot of water fountains are being used basically all over the places from shopping complexes to hospitals, to business establishments and parks.Not only do they improve and boost the furnishings of the building, but they also bring relaxation and untainted delight to people.
christmas designs for home
There's no better way to get excited about Christmas than starting the time-honoured tradition of decorating your home and once you've decorated your house it's officially Christmas... but many people never really know when to start these festive preparations.
There are many superstitions around the background of Christmas Decorations and some superstitions have been retained, indeed hanging mistletoe is still popular. Although there are different interpretations for its use people still believe that luck favours those who kiss under it and goes against those who avoid it. However, apart from the fact that Christmas decorating is an inherited activity, it basically makes people feel excited about forthcoming festivities... even for those who make a fuss about it (but still do it!)
Perhaps especially for those people these time saving tips on how to decorate your home will be of use (and you may still have time to get a bit of gift-wrapping done too!) Decorating the tree is the obvious decoration to start with - but the way you put away your tree decorations is an important part to making this easy. Don't just throw your lights and baubles into a carrier bag when taking them down (you know who you are!) - make life easier by untangling lights and boxing your tinsel and baubles separately.
There are many superstitions around the background of Christmas Decorations and some superstitions have been retained, indeed hanging mistletoe is still popular. Although there are different interpretations for its use people still believe that luck favours those who kiss under it and goes against those who avoid it. However, apart from the fact that Christmas decorating is an inherited activity, it basically makes people feel excited about forthcoming festivities... even for those who make a fuss about it (but still do it!)
Perhaps especially for those people these time saving tips on how to decorate your home will be of use (and you may still have time to get a bit of gift-wrapping done too!) Decorating the tree is the obvious decoration to start with - but the way you put away your tree decorations is an important part to making this easy. Don't just throw your lights and baubles into a carrier bag when taking them down (you know who you are!) - make life easier by untangling lights and boxing your tinsel and baubles separately.
Christmas designs for home
Christmas designs for home
Christmas designs for home
Christmas designs for home
latest showers photos
latest showers |
latest showers |
This gadget is capable of detecting water temperature and water to illuminate accordingly! No batteries required, because Led is self powered. His work is based on force, created inside the turbine through water management. The installation requires no special expertise, simply screw the new shower head lamp instead of age.
With increasing water temperature also changes the color automatically. When the temperature varies between 33 ° C – 41C blue light is at 42 ° C – 45 ° C is the turn of the red light when the temperature is below 32 ° C – has fresh green shower! It can also help the user understand the temperature is good for him or not – who have only one look at the color of the shower.
This LED will shower new note in the usual procedure and will compliment any bathroom. This fabulous gadget can turn to be an unusual gift, affordable and ideal for anyone.
latest showers |
latest showers |
latest showers |
Tips to Have a Dollar Christmas Party
Growing up my mother's family always had a Dollar Christmas Celebration with her family. Everyone received $1.00 gifts. This was BEFORE $1.00 stores! We had to be creative! We would plan all year to get ideas. We would give all the men things like De-icers, tools, etc. Women would get ornaments, craft projects. Everyone would be remembered, and no one spent very much!
1. Start early. Inform relatives or invitees that only $1.00 gifts will be allowed. Communication is the key! Promoting this party with enthusiasm will pay off in an exciting party. The fun is getting excited over all the fun and creative gifts that can be found!
2. Start scouring Dollar stores for the best deals. Some Discount Stores have things marked down to $1.00. Target has their Dollar bins. Check Dollar Tree, Dollar General etc.
3. If one starts early enough, there are hundreds of crafts or food items a family can make together.
4. Decide on one gift for all men, one gift for women and one gift for children.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Christmas Card Crafts for Kids
There are many great ideas you can explore in order to help kids create their own Christmas cards, drawing from a variety of different types of craft materials. Developing personalized Christmas cards for classmates, family or a teacher can be a wonderful craft project for children to delve into on a snowy day in preparation for the Christmas holiday. You will need to buy the materials you'll need from a craft store or a retail chain that carries these types of supplies such as Walmart.
Use Paint
Consider making use of a graphics program like Paint, which normally comes with Microsoft Windows, to create a design for your card. By using a program like Paint to create a card, it can have the added benefit of getting children interested in using the computer. This program is truly user friendly, and kids can use it to create Christmas design by utilizing the tools in the toolbar. Once the child creates a design, you can print out the image on card stock. Now, the child can add various materials to the card, like glitter or cotton balls for snow or Santa's beard. She can then sign a personalized message to complete her Christmas card.
Giant Christmas Card
Creating a giant Christmas card that various children in a family (or a classroom) work on can make for a wonderful Christmas card project, especially as a surprise for a teacher or even a mother or grandmother. If you choose to pursue this type of design, it can help to section off areas for each child to work on before you begin. Or, you may want to assign certain elements of the design to each child; for example, one child might be responsible for designing the border on the card. Another can create the snow, reindeer, etc. This can help to prevent disagreements from popping up.
Homemade Cards
Another approach that kids can take to create Christmas cards is to use construction paper and various craft materials to make a homemade, handcrafted card that the recipient will cherish. Children love working with their hands, and they particularly enjoy creating crafts with a parent or with other kids. You can purchase an array of different types of craft materials either from a craft store or a retailer that sells these products. It is usually a good idea to buy various types of items from cotton balls, glitter and glue to crayons, markers and paint. Remember to select materials that are non-toxic and that are easy to clean up after you complete your Christmas card creation project.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Symmetry Align-1 Wall Mounted Computer Station
The Align 1 computer station has a fixed height position for the monitor (automatic tilt and swivel and infinite height setting inside the track). The keyboard is a fixed height (with infinite height setting inside the track). Keyboard easily folds flat and retracts against the wall. With built in (and easy to access) wire management to keep a clean look after installation, this units stows neatly close to the wall. Optional CPU holder can be mounted above, below or beside the unit and comes in a standard and lockable version.
office interior decoration wallpapers
office interior decoration |
office interior decoration |
Office interior design should reflect corporate goals and dynamism. Potential clients must be able to feel that this company, such as furniture used in offices, means business. The client also must be kept in mind in all phases of interior design office.On the other hand, interior design office at the same time you’ll be nice to finally have the freedom in life brought to the place where you work day after day. This modern style most often used in interior design office. This is because the show a sense of dynamic, progressive, and always updated with the latest trends. Surely, no client wants to deal with corporate offices are still 70 of the furniture!
office interior decoration |
office interior decoration |
office interior decoration |
home interior decoration photos
home interior decoration |
home interior decoration |
home interior decoration |
We all love beautiful things. So, our homes must be the one of them, and therefore, the home décor is very important. Most of us enjoy making our homes more than a mere structure made up of four walls and a roof. Home decor styles range from a number of themes, designs, and materials.
While planning your home decor project, you can either opt for the theme being implemented throughout the house or use one specific theme for a specific room. For example, a house was once designed in such a way that each room was decorated with the styles of the different countries the home owner had visited. All rooms included authentic art and furniture from each visited country.
An assessment of your needs is preferrable before embarking on the process of a new home interior decorating project. The next point to keep in mind would obviously be taste such as personal likings and dislikings. You can then choose from several themes that can stretch from Victorian to more contemporary themes, which are more suited to the modern and urban lifestyle.
One of the modern themes including home decor ideas that are really catching up is the use of bamboo. Eco-friendly and beautiful, bamboo has a number of advantages that account for its popularity as a first choice for home interior decoration. Transform your home to a tropical paradise of peace and harmony with the use of bamboo. Another benefit of using bamboo is the fact that the material is famous for its sheer versatility. You can incorporate it into almost anything beginning with floorings to even towels!
The main point to remember when using bamboo for decorating your home interior is the fact that the glue that is used for sealing the sheets into a pattern should be non-toxic glue. This is especially important when bamboo flooring is glued with inexpensive or low quality glue. The flooring can cause the floors to dent and also cause them to give out a harmful gas called Formaldehyde.
Curtains can also match with the flooring with convenience as bamboo curtains can be easily purchased all over the world. It is best to keep the interior spaces clutter-free while using bamboo flooring, as this would go a long way in enhancing the ambience. The color that this theme would necessarily involve would be slightly muted. Furthermore, this color is quite fashionable in this decade. In case you want to add color to the space, cushions and rugs make make nice floor decor additions.
To add a bit of freshness to the room, accentuate the muted sophistication of the theme with a couple of bright hibiscus flowers and perhaps a well chosen painting with a color selection that matches the home decor accessories. Try to décor your home now.
home interior decoration |
home interior decoration |
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