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6/25/2010

7 Tips for Caring for Houseplants, 8 Ways to Keep Your House Cat Happy, 8 Ways Celebrities Cure Their Hangovers




Posted: 25 Jun 2010 11:02 AM PDT


My mother has a green thumb. She can take any dried up stick and two weeks later, it's a lush, happy houseplant. Me, I'm not so talented, but with these tips from my mother, I can keep most of them alive. Here are my mother's tips for caring for houseplants… thanks, mom!


1. Don't over-water

Don't over-water
  Photo Credit: floridapfe
According to mom, the biggest mistake people make when caring for their houseplants is that they over-water. She says to only water the plant when you see the soil is dry. If you can't tell, and are afraid to over-water, there are little sticks that will tell you exactly when you need to add water — just stick them in the soil, and wait til they tell you what to do!

2. Follow sunlight instructions

Follow sunlight instructions
  Photo Credit: Mullenkedheim
Some plants love sunlight, others will shrivel. Read the sunlight instructions when you buy a new plant, and observe them carefully. If the instructions say "low light," then don't put the plant in a sunny window, no matter how pretty it looks there!

3. Keep them dusted!

Keep them dusted!
  Photo Credit: NeelySpice
Outdoor plants don't gather dust because of the wind and rain, but indoor plants need a little help keeping dust-free. A quick, gentle swipe with a feather duster or Swiffer ought to do the trick, but once in a while, on watering day, my mother actually carries each one to the tub to give it a quick shower, too.
Posted: 25 Jun 2010 10:57 AM PDT


Some people think that the cat is an outdoor animal, and that it is cruel to keep it confined indoors. However, if you live in a city or on a very busy road, it is much safer to keep it indoors. Most cats adapt very well, but they do need to be amused. So here are some ways to keep your house cat happy.


#1

If you move to a flat, look for one with a balcony. Cats are naturally curious, and like to watch what is going on, so access to a balcony will give them the chance to keep a vigilant eye on the neighbourhood and enjoy some fresh air. Just make sure that the balcony is secure.

#2

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  Photo Credit: junku
Buy a scratchpost! The cat needs to sharpen its claws, and if it does not have access to a tree will use your furniture as a substitute. So, unless you want your table and sofa to be shredded, get moggy a scratchpost.

#3

Make the house interesting from a feline point of view. A cat sees the world in three dimensions, and loves to climb. So make sure that there are plenty of chairs, tables (with no precious objects) and different levels for them to jump up and down.
Posted: 25 Jun 2010 10:48 AM PDT


Have you ever wondered how celebrities get so drunk, but always seem to be back on almost-top form the next day? I've often wondered how they do it… alcohol always seems to leave me feeling tired and rubbish! I've been researching how celebs cure their hangovers, and here are my favourites…

1. Daniel Craig

daniel_craig
Daniel Craig gets over his hangovers by making himself sweat. It actually works! Whether you work hard at the gym or relax in the sauna, sweat the alcohol out, and you'll feel human again in no time. Which is quite amazing!

2. Kate Winslet

Kate-Winslet-12
Kate Winslet always looks fresh as a daisy, so I was interested to learn her trick! Her suggestion? Eating a sausage and bacon sandwich, with a glass of fruit juice, and going back to bed. Then wake up with a shower! The sleep gives the nutrients chance to work, and you'll be feeling and looking as good as new.

3. Kylie Minogue

kylie
Kylie has been to so many celebrity functions, so she's definitely had enough time to try all the cures! Her failsafe? Eating eggs sandwiches. I have no idea why this would work, so I tried it… for some reason, it really does! I've kept some emergency eggs in my fridge from now on…
Posted: 25 Jun 2010 10:41 AM PDT


I'm always in the mood for a bargain, especially if it means I'll be able to save money for a splurge item, like a new handbag or pair of killer stilettos. It's not always easy to save, and I hate making big cut-backs, so I've done some research, and here's a list of 7 small ways you can save up to $600 per year.


1. Round up

Savings per year: $200
Round up
  Photo Credit: rdodson76
I've been doing this for years now, and every six months, I can treat myself to a splurge item, like a new pair of heels. When I subtract any purchase from my checkbook, I just round the amount up. So if the item is $10.43, I enter an even $11 in my checkbook… and the math is much easier, too!

2. Switch to generics

Savings per year: $600
Switch to generics
  Photo Credit: kaaaarly
It's true that for some grocery items, you really get what you pay for. But for some things, like granola, the generic or store brand is just as good! Try a few generic items and see what you think… you'll save big!

3. Bag one lunch per week

Savings per year: $350
Bag one lunch per week
  Photo Credit: Claudia.Annette
The average person can eat out up to five times per week for lunch. All that lunch money can really add up! To save a little money, brown-bag your lunch one or even two days per week… again, the savings will really be apparent!
Posted: 25 Jun 2010 10:24 AM PDT


I like dressing up for Halloween. Halloween is my favorite time of the year. Obviously, you do not want to wear the same costume from last year, many people would notice this, so it's time for you to get a new one! Below, I am going to give you 8 sexy costumes for Halloween..


8. Sexy Play Bunny Costume

Sexy Play Bunny Costume
Price: $27.98 at yandy.com
Do you have a thing for bunnies? If so, then this sexy play bunny costume is just for you. It includes a long-sleeved midriff tip trimmed with some faux fur. The lace and ribbon will be loved and don't leave out the black vinyl. Oh yeah and of course, you get bunny ears and vinyl hot pants with even more lace. To top it all off, you get a bunny tail!

7. Raspberry Tart Costume

Raspberry Tart Costume
Price: $51.95 at yandy.com
Forget about strawberries! Whenever someone walks past you, they won't even be thinking about them! They'll surely be thinking about raspberries when you wear this three piece raspberry girl costume.

6. Sexy Tiger Costume

Sexy Tiger Costume
Price: $36.71 at yandy.com
Of course, from time to time, we all want to take a walk on the wild side and Halloween time is the best time of the year to do so! So, take a walk on the wild side with this sexy tiger costume. I know you are not going to regret it.
Posted: 25 Jun 2010 09:55 AM PDT


It is my pleasure as a wedding blogger to present a guest post to my readers from the wonderful wedding vendor Trish at Ajalon Printing and Design:
Everyone loves the aesthetic quality and charming allure of letterpress printing. The deep impressions and understated elegance of letterpress wedding invitations are so unique that it cannot be produced by any other printing method. However, as is the case with many high quality products, there is a belief that letterpress printing costs a great deal more. But this does not always have to be the case.
To help all you price savvy brides find the letterpress wedding invitations of your dreams at a price that is affordable, here is a list of seven easy to follow steps that can dramatically reduce the cost of your letterpress wedding invitation set.

1. Shop, Shop, Shop…


1letterpress
Sometimes shopping around can become tiresome, but spending an extra couple minutes looking for the right letterpress wedding invitation printers online usually will save you hundreds of dollars in the end. It is well worth your time to spend a little extra energy searching online for professionals that have what you want at a price you can afford.

2. Special Deals…

1deals
Look for specials or seasonal pricing on letterpress wedding invitation designs. Some printers may offer these types of specials upfront, and other times you may need to specifically ask. But no matter who you order your invitations from, finding a printer that has a special price on letterpress wedding invitations will save you money.

3. RSVP Postcards…

Image 1 RSVP Postcard
Think about ordering RSVP postcards instead of the traditional RSVP cards. A recent trend among price savvy brides is ordering their wedding invitation design with an RSVP postcard and saving on the postage and additional envelope costs.

4. DIY…

1Image 3 DIY
When thinking about how to personalize your letterpress wedding invitation designs, including a little DIY or 'Do It Yourself' is sure to impress your guests and save you some extra money. Instead of ordering envelope liners or pre-addressed envelopes, consider doing this yourself and spending your savings on something else.

5. Cut the Guest List…

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Something that will save you money at every level of your wedding, cutting the number of guests you invite can also greatly reduce your overall letterpress wedding invitation costs. While you might like the idea of inviting every great uncle and third cousin twice removed, cutting even a couple people will help ease the costs of your entire wedding celebration.

6. Mix and Match…

2Image 4 Mix and Match
Mixing offset printing, a traditionally less expensive printing method with letterpress printing is a brilliant way to save money. Consider printing your wedding invitations with letterpress and the less important items like the RSVP postcard or envelopes with offset printing. You can use the same colors, styles and fonts throughout, and the savings will add up.

7. Black & White is Beautiful…

1Image 5 Black and White
The mark of classical letterpress wedding invitation designs, black ink with white paper is much simpler and less expensive than an invitation set with multiple colors. If you want to enjoy the beauty of letterpress printing but are trying to cut back on costs, instead of multiple colors consider a black and white sincere yet sophisticated letterpress wedding invitation design.
Did you use a letterpress design for your wedding invitaton?
Posted: 25 Jun 2010 08:36 AM PDT


Are you sick and tired of cleaning your house? I am!! Oh, fooled you! Nott he kind of sick you are thinking! But the kind of "real" sick where you experience headaches, wheezing, and sneezing! The culprit could be the chemical in your cleaning products. Did you know there are over 375 chemicals that have never been for the tested for human health safety? Below, I have created a list, along the ingredients for making natural cleaners at home!


1. Lemon Furniture Polish

Lemon Furniture Polish
  Photo Credit: Siebe
Coffee spills , jelly finger prints, and chocolate cookie smudges are a gone with a swipe of this smell good, clean great cleaner. Mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Apply to furniture with a cloth, then buff. The acid in the lemon cleans the smears and smudges while the olive oil helps bring out the shine of the wood.

2. Lemon Bathtub Cleaner

Lemon Bathtub Cleaner
  Photo Credit: colettecosentino
Fiberglass tubs can be rid of that unsightly rust with no problem! This natural cleaner dissolves rust stains as great as the store bought brand. Mix 2 TBSP lemon juice with ¼ cup baking soda and rub onto the rust. Leave it on for about 20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. DO NOT USE ON GRANITE OR MARBLE.

3. Lemon Cabinet Cleaner

Lemon Cabinet Cleaner
  Photo Credit: hastingsgraham
Are your kitchen cabinets covered with a sticky, unknown substance? Wipe them down with ¼ cup lemon juice and a quart of hot water. Wipe the cabinets with a damp sponge, and follow up with a clean, wet cloth. Finish with a dry rag and buff to a shine.
Posted: 25 Jun 2010 06:56 AM PDT


Everyone knows one. A woman who eats what she likes, and seems to stay effortlessly slim…whether she's snacking on pizza or salad, while you are worrying about how many calories you've now got to burn off, she's planning her next snack. Gah! Naturally slim women do have some benefits, though….here are eight of their deepest secrets!


1. Good or evil

Good or evil
  Photo Credit: Sugarbloom Bev ;o)
Don't label foods as good and bad, and forget the labels you've already given! If you label something, such as cupcakes or biscuits, as a bad food, you'll feel like a failure if you eat them, and as you've already 'failed' to avoid them, you'll be more likely to eat loads more. Don't see them as a negative…enjoy all the different foods, and you'll master them, and not feel the urge to binge eat them.

2. Enjoy Fruit

Enjoy Fruit
  Photo Credit: Paco CT
Slim women tend to enjoy at least one more portion of fruit per day then overweight women, so pick a fruit you like, and try to eat a little of it per day. Whether its the one with the best health benefits or the one you love the flavour of, any fruit will do. It's all full of natural goodness, and it'll fill you up while it makes you healthier. I love cherries at the moment!

3. Discover How Hungry Feels

Discover How Hungry Feels
  Photo Credit: docman
Consider whether you are actually hungry before you eat anything. Most people confuse hunger with a stimulated appetite, which can be caused by anything from boredom to smelling food. When you next get hungry, distract yourself for twenty minutes and see if you are still hungry afterwards. Cravings tend to pass, and you'll save yourself a lot of calories!
Posted: 25 Jun 2010 06:11 AM PDT


PMS can be difficult to diagnose, but it is a real condition that women are having to face each month during their reproductive years. The symptoms of PMS can vary from emotional to mental. There are also some physical symptoms that come along with it. With PMS, one could experience breast tenderness, breast swelling, bloating, mood swings, food cravings, irritability, fatigue and even depression. From month to month, those symptoms could change. The symptoms could be mild one month, severe the next and mild after that. About three out of every four women who are menstruating experience PMS. Below, I would like to tell you 12 things about PMS you should know…

#12

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The emotional, behavioral or mental symptoms of PMS could range from anxiety and tension to depression, mood swings, crying spells, anger, irritability, appetite changes, food craving, insomnia, poor concentration and social withdrawal.
Photo Credit: bcymet

#11

The physical symptoms of PMS can vary from pain in the muscles or joints to headache pain, weight gain, fatigue, cramping, abdominal bloating, acne flare-ups, diarrhea and/or constipation.

#10

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There is a small percentage of women who have symptoms that are so severe — they are called premenstrual dysphoric disorder or PMDD. This is a severe form of OMS that includes deep feelings of hopelessness, depression, low self-esteem, difficulty concentrating, anger or experiencing extreme tension.
Photo Credit: Gabriela Camerotti
Posted: 25 Jun 2010 04:16 AM PDT


Chapped lips are horrible. They look bad, feel bad, and always make me feel rubbish, so I've been hunting out exactly why they occur, and what I can do to put them at bay for good. After all, who doesn't want soft, sexy lips? The top four reasons for chapped lips surprised me… here they are!

1. Lip Balm

Which lip balm do you use? While wax based ones look and feel like they are much more moisturizing; petroleum based ones are actually much better. They only need to be applied once or twice a day, and they last much longer, moisturizing your skin and protecting it. Need a new one? I'd recommend Aquaphor Healing Ointment, which you can get from any chemist… it works like a dream!

2. Face Wash

When you wash your face, do you apply your scrubs and masks to your lips? If you look on the packaging, most face scrubs etc advise to avoid the eyes and mouth. I always thought this was to prevent users from digesting the product, but actually, it's because these formulas dry out lips, which causes them to crack.

3. Fragranced Lip Gloss

Do you use flavoured lipglosses? I didn't think I did, but after searching through my make up bag and doing some online research, I discovered that quite a few of my glosses contain cinnamites. They are usually in fragranced or plumping glosses, but they can irritate lips and cause them to dry out, which creates painful cracking.

4. Stress

Do you lick your lips alot? When stressed, people tend to bite and lick their lips much more frequently, which removes moisture and dries them out. Apply lipgloss to minimise damage if you can't help yourself, but really try not to lick your lips. I'm working on this!
Posted: 25 Jun 2010 03:54 AM PDT


If you get the chance to have a little one, then I know you are going to be just as exciting as I was. I also understand that you may be a bit scared as you are preparing for the baby. Don't worry, while I am not going to tell you taking care of a baby is easy, I am going to tell you that it is easy to prepare for a baby. Below, I am going to give you 10 ways to prepare for a baby without breaking your bank account…


10. Borrow a bassinet

Borrow a bassinet
  Photo Credit: fensterj
You see, I discovered that most babies are only going to need their bassinet for three months. The lifespan for one of these is short. If you really want one, see if you are able to borrow one from someone. There are many expensive ones out there that you should not waste your money on.

9. What about the changing table?

What about the changing table?
  Photo Credit: PutYourFlareOn
Most changing tables are only useful for a couple of years, while the baby is in diapers. Not only are they expensive, but they can also take up some space. If you do get a changing table, you may be able to increase the lifespan by using it to store books or toys in the baby's room. Buying a slightly used one on sale is not a bad idea. There are also playpens that have changing table features, which will save money.

8. What about the swing or vibrating chair?

What about the swing or vibrating chair?
  Photo Credit: avaloncm
A lot of babies have a preference. If you get both of them, make sure you keep the packaging and return the one that is not their favorite. The, take that money and put it towards something that you are in need of.
Posted: 25 Jun 2010 02:19 AM PDT


Relationships and dating are a minefield, and we've all trodden on a few mines in our time. Here are some embarrassing and daft mistakes to avoid making with men.

1. Mistaken identity

Make a play for a gay man. Yes, I will put my hands up and confess to having done this. I still cringe.

2. Insubordination

Getting drunk at the office party and making a play for your boss. Double points for stupidity if he is married. Triple points if his wife is present.

3. Text-crazy

3
Texting him 20 times a day. In a new relationship, spells STALKER. In an established relationship, says 'I DON'T TRUST YOU'.
Photo Credit: ydhsu
Posted: 24 Jun 2010 07:16 PM PDT


1. Robert Pattinson Defends Kristen

Kristen compared being stalked by the paparazzi to being raped. Of course, this led to people expressing their opinions and giving Kristen a hard time. But Rob defended her. Check out what he said.

2. Kristen’s Red Carpet Style Evolution

From awkward outfits to chic little mini dresses, Kristen has come a long way. Watch this feature on FabTV to see how Kristen has improved her style in recent years.

3. Kristen at the Love Ranch Premiere

Wearing a sweet LBD and yes, a smile. Yay, a smile! I am very excited to see what dresses she’ll be wearing when more Eclipse red carpet events start.

4. Kristen’s Look for Cheap

She always does look nice in booties, doesn’t she? Check out the link and learn how you can copy one of her looks for less.

5. An Open Letter to Kristen

One College Candy contributor wrote an open letter to Kristen, telling her to “lighten up.” Do you agree? Was this letter mean or dead on?
Posted: 24 Jun 2010 12:44 PM PDT


Sandals and summer go hand-in-hand. I have a hard enough time wearing shoes, let alone putting on a pair of socks to go with them. That's the beautiful part about wearing sandals; no socks need to be involved! I've done some searching and came up with 7 must have sandals that I think are perfect for the warmer days of summer.


7. Leia Sandals by Camper

Leia Sandals by Camper
Sold for $128.24 at endless.com
These suede sandals look both comfortable and classy. I like the double straps that cross over the front of the foot; it seems to add a different feel to the shoe. I also really like the way the back of the sandal holds the heel in place. I've had shoes in the past that simply slipped off my foot, since there wasn't anything holding my foot in place. I think these shoes would be great with a sundress, Capri pants, or even a pair of slim fitting jeans. The lack of a heel makes them a bit more versatile.

6. T-thong Patent Leather Sandals by Saks Fifth Avenue

T-thong Patent Leather Sandals by Saks Fifth Avenue
Sold for $128.99 at saksfifthavenue.com
These are available in both black and red. The black will go with many more outfits than the red will, but I think the shiny red patent leather is fantastic! There is a slight heel to add a bit of height, but it isn't so high that it makes it difficult to maneuver in. I think these have a fun and summer feel to them. I also like the buckle on the front strap. Being able to adjust the sandal in two different areas allows for a better fit all over.

5. Stacy Leather Sandals by bebe

Stacy Leather Sandals by bebe
Sold for $149.00 at bebe.com
These 5 inch heels are perfect for adding some excellent height, which is something I need at times. They will definitely keep my slacks from dragging on the ground, but the heel isn't so high and spindly that I'd feel off-balance. So, I'd have the additional height without needing to perform a balancing act each time I wore them. I like the open-toe aspect as well. This feature is great for showing of newly painted toenails! The rivets along the front of the shoe add a bit of flair and these would even go with a pair of jeans.
Posted: 24 Jun 2010 12:21 PM PDT


The Wedding season has arrived, and I seem to be getting an invite a day these days! And while I love weddings just as much as the next girl, they can get expensive. Next month alone, I have 9 weddings, with 3 being so far away that I'll need to book accommodation, and pay for someone to feed my pets while I'm gone. So, I've been considering how to save money so that the season of happiness doesn't send me bankrupt, and here are my top eight tips…


1. Think Smart

Think Smart
  Photo Credit: Its all about the cake
Most couples have a wedding list these days, and send a paper copy in the invitation, or send around an electronic link to the list. Instead of putting off buying the present until closer to the day, choose an affordable but great gift off the list and buy it as soon as you can. That way, you won't be the one left with all the expensive presents to choose from!

2. Be Creative

Be Creative
  Photo Credit: mrs_t
As well as the main present, there are also plenty of mini-gifts that may not be compulsory, but are certainly expected. Once you've decided on your main present, get creative for the smaller ones. Think about what you know about the bride and groom, and use your knowledge. For the engagement party, buy them a bottle of wine from a wine shop, and give it in a pretty bag with a note to drink it when its much older, and matured. Newer wine is much cheaper, and the sentiment is really cute! For her hen party, you could make a photo album for her?

3. Look At Cheap Flights

Look At Cheap Flights
  Photo Credit: KOBUS 2C
Overseas weddings take a lot of planning, and usually the couple will decide where to marry months earlier then they tell the guests. If you start looking at flights from the moment you know where you are going, you'll be able to see any patterns in flight prices, and know when to book for best results. I use yapta.com when I'm booking flights, which monitor the price of the flight and emails you as soon as the price is lowered. If you can't find any cheap flights in advance, don't be afraid to fly separately from the rest of the bridal party if you can get a cheaper flight.

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