7 Tips for New Moms to Save in the Kitchen

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As every mom knows, having kids isn’t cheap!

Between doctor’s visits, diapers, food and toys, it’s tough for new mothers to save.  But it’s important to keep an eye on your spending because financial pressure only adds more stress, which is the last thing any Mom needs!

So here are 7 tips for new moms to help be more economical in the kitchen:

1) Make a meal plan with ingredients you already have

Choosing recipes based on what you already have in your kitchen is an easy way to save.  There are plenty of online tools that can provide creative meal ideas based on predefined ingredient lists.
Another suggestion for you to do is to make an inventory of the items you have in your refrigerator and freezer for you to keep track. This inventory would be helpful in making your meal plan.

2) Cook in bulk

Not only does it save you money - cooking in bulk saves you time as well.
Storing pre-cooked meals in your freezer is a great way to help your future self!  It’ll save you time from having to recreate dishes and will avoid the temptation of ordering out, helping you to save even more!

3) Do not immediately throw out leftovers 

Leftovers are never popular, but they’re a smart way to cut down on your grocery bill.
Save your leftover meals for lunch or dinner the next day.  As long as they are properly refrigerated, most meals will last at least a day or two and still taste great!

4) Watch out for sales

Keep an eye out for sales at your local grocery store, especially with produce.  Some stores will put fruits and vegetables on sale if they have an oversupply or are near the end of a season.  Make sure to check the expiration dates if you have to buy multiple items to make sure you’ll be able to use them before going bad.

5) Buy produce that is in season

Produce that is in season are more affordable since there’s more supply.  You’ll also tend to get better quality produce as well.
Make sure to stock up when it’s cheap and only occasionally splurge on out-of-season items.

6) Save on kitchen appliances

There’s a kitchen appliance now for almost every cooking function!  Whether it’s making rice, bread, or ice cream, there’s a gadget that can do that job.  However buying separate appliances for everything is costly and takes up a ton of counter space.
Consider do-it-all appliances like an Instant Pot that can act as an electric cooker, pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, and more.

7) Live off the land

Growing your own fruits and vegetables can save a lot of money as compared to buying them regularly in the grocery.
If you’re new to gardening you can start small.  If your yard has good sunlight, tomatoes and peppers are great options to begin with.

Save in the Kitchen

Use the tips to help save in the kitchen while still providing health, wholesome meals for your family.

Fashion Rules for Men’s Bracelets

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While bracelets might have been a feature of the fashion of all genders in many different times in the world’s history, for the vast majority of the twentieth century, and indeed the twenty first century also, wrist adornment has been a predominantly female game. But as the luxury jewellery market becomes a more egalitarian arrangement, the masculine end of the market is seeing more attention, and with attention in design comes rules in fashion. If you, or someone you know, is a gentleman considering a fashionable cuff-neighbouring set of accessories, consider the following important rules when it comes to style.

Go big, go tiny, or go home
When it comes to men’s bracelets, the middle ground is not a pleasant place to stand. A subtle strand of leather, a thin silver chain, or a gentle arc of gold can potentially offer the kind of stylish accent that marks you as paying attention to your style, but keeping your more expressive side in check. On the other hand if you want to be seen, noticed, and understand that those around you will appreciate a bolder and brasher style, you might want to consider the Roman warrior style leather gauntlet bracelets or multi chained leather bracelets. If you have seen multiple smaller styles that you like, but cannot decide between, if you can find an arrangement that stacks together well don’t be afraid to mix and match at once to form a collection. To see some really great versions of this sort of style, check these out.

Pick symbolism you’re confident in
Because there are many places and many environments where men’s bracelets are still very much not the norm, you could very well be coming across inquiring questions about your style choice, how you came to think that this particular bracelet was important enough to you to become part of your regular work or formal attire. While for some people it might be just enough to say “I thought the style was striking” or “yes, this particular pattern just spoke to me”, many other people might want to leave a longer lasting impression in the minds of those they speak to. Choosing design options that have a connection maybe to a place you’ve been, an event you took part in, a cause you believe in and support, or some other meaningful link that you can talk about with authority. This will make your bracelet not just a stylistic addition, but a real talking point that reflects your personality.

Proportional to your wrist
While the fit of a bracelet is much more about the circumfluence and the elasticity beyond anything else, that doesn’t mean there aren’t other areas of size and structure to consider when you pick a bracelet for a man. The biggest issue is the question of proportionality. Giant chunky beads, thick slabs of leather, and chain after chain stacked in a row more than an inch or so wide might not be entirely apt if your wrists are smaller, thinner, or otherwise less obviously substantial. Conversely, if you are of a bulkier build and your wrists are more aptly compared to a tree’s trunk as opposed to its twigs, then wearing thinner bands of leather, metal, or plastic might seem redundant or otherwise out of sorts. Keep a balance and strike a tone. Like all things fashion, it is as much about the interplay between clothing and body as it is about the clothes themselves.

Watches can send a message
Unlike what many other blogs and fashion writers will say, the truth is that there is absolutely no hard and fast rule about the aptness or otherwise of a man wearing a bracelet alongside a watch, on the opposite wrist to a watch, or not even wearing a watch at all but still having a bracelet. None of these options look inherently unfashionable or irredeemably ugly. However in each case, a message
is being sent and you may need to keep that in mind in the broader context of your own personality and the natural patterns of your actions and interactions with workplace colleagues and social compatriots alike. Conventional wisdom suggests that if you are going to wear a watch, it should be on your dominant hand, and on the counter-cuff, a much subtler and smaller bracelet affair should be present. However putting a watch on one side and layering that wrist up with extra bracelets while leaving the other wrist barren and empty sends a strong asymmetrical symbol of deliberate and decisive intent. The only strong piece of advice to offer is to be aware of the danger of potential scratches and scuffs if you put a bracelet with gemstones or other extremely hard materials next to a watch.

Bracelets are an extremely expressive, exciting, and interesting option when it comes to accessories, and it definitely should not be the case that this kind of style should be shut off to just one gender. With care and consideration, you can make bracelets and other jewellery a regular and essential part of a stylish and sophisticated wardrobe.

Projecting Your Own Fashion Statement Using Jewelry Pieces

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An individual who has his or her own fashion statement has greater confidence compared to others who do not know how to project their style. However, fashion designers and other experts in the field agree that everyone can develop their own fashion style if they are looking for the right outfits and accessories that will match. People can choose whether they would like to wear outfits like denim jackets, t-shirts, or formal wear. It is up to them, and it defines who they are and what their style is. Once they have chosen the outfits that they want to wear, the next thing to do is to find the appropriate accessories that would match the style that they have chosen.

Jewelry has been worn since ancient times. The most common jewelry pieces are rings, bracelets, anklets, necklaces, and earrings. Craftsmen from ancient civilizations had dedicated their skill to create detailed and intricate pieces of art that are still prized by collectors even today. The detailed designs portrayed by ancient artifacts highlight the fashion style of the people millennia and centuries ago. This also provides a glimpse of how life was back in those times. In the present, there is a wide array of jewelry pieces that can be purchased by people. The different designs showcased by jewelry pieces make it easier to choose which one to wear to match your style.

Individuals who want to look more elegant can choose gold, silver, and other precious stones when shopping for jewelry. Gold filled chains are a great choice for those who want to wear exquisite necklaces and bracelets. Silver, despite the tradition making it inferior to gold, has its own beauty and can also be worn to project a different kind of style. The precious stones that should be worn have to match the person’s character. One can also consider their birthstone when choosing the right jewelry piece. There are many combinations that would work out perfectly, and one should be detailed about the choices that they are making.

One’s style would also affect whether a jewelry set will be purchased or not. There are people who want to project their fashion statement freely, and they resort to creating their own jewelry sets to impress other people. While some have the money to buy expensive jewelry pieces from the top quality manufacturers, others would use their creativity to make their own set. Creating a piece of jewelry set at home is a great project and it can also be a starting point for establishing your own business. Homemade jewelry, depending on the skill of the person making it, can project a high-quality design compared to the ones sold at stores. However, one needs to practice their skill in creating a jewelry piece to make it more appealing.

If you are interested in creating your own jewelry piece at home, there are things that you need to do first, like gathering the materials and verifying the design that you want for your jewelry project. You can gather inspiration from the websites of other jewelry makers, but make sure that you don't ever copy their design because you might get in trouble. To make your own design, try sketching your idea on a paper and start coloring it using colors that would match and will highlight your creativity. You can also design your jewelry online using the available tools that can be easily found using search engines.

Once you manage to create the design that you want, you need to search for the materials that will be used in creating the jewelry piece. Crafting stores are your best bet when looking for art materials, and they have a variety of materials that would help you out in creating your project.

After you finish the jewelry set that you want to create, try it out and see how it makes a difference to your style. You must remember that in order to gain the attention of others, you have to be confident when projecting your style. You will be surprised how many people will start looking up to you because of the amount of confidence that you have shown

How to give your child's room a spring makeover

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With spring comes longer and lighter days, blossoming flowers and chirping birds. Commencing on the 20th March, spring symbolises new beginnings and it is the perfect opportunity to get your dusters out and spring clean the entire house. It might also be nice to take some extra time out to redecorate for spring. While you don’t need to re-design your entire home, it’s nice to pay attention to yours and your children’s bedrooms; especially as children spend around 40% of their childhood in bed, asleep!

It has been proven that exposure to natural daylight improves mood and productivity; you can mimic this with bright interiors and a fresh décor update. It’s out with the thick duvets and chunky throws, and in with the light, bright and airy linens.

Here are 5 ways you can give your child’s room a spring makeover:

1. Switch up your child’s bedding
It is time to put away those heavy knitted throws and thick duvets to make ways for lighter, brighter airy linens. It may sound too easy, but simply updating your child’s bedding can give their room an instant facelift! You might wish to consider a change in colour or pattern; floral bedding works well for both spring and summer seasons. Look to match their new spring bedding with carefully selected cushions – a selection of two or three complementary designs will add variety to their bed. If they are used to having a throw draped across the end of the bed, look for something a little lighter to complement the refreshed bedroom design and also to ensure they are not overheating throughout the warmer months.

2. Introduce pops of colour
Embrace colour as you plan the new look for your child’s room. Look to add pops of seasonal colour through the décor and soft furnishings, such as cushions and throws. Pantone’s 2019 colour of the year, Living Coral, is an energising and mood boosting shade that you may wish to consider, and it complements a neutral base well. Alternatively, pinks, greens and blues work nicely and will help to brighten up their bedroom space for the coming spring and summer seasons.

3. Let the breeze in
Let in the fresh air and natural light; windows will have most likely remained closed for winter but with the arrival of spring, it’s the perfect opportunity let the fresh breeze in and air out your child’s room. Make sure they open the curtains or blinds each morning, as the inclusion of daylight will lift their mood and improve their quality of sleep.

4. Rearrange the furniture
You may wish to rearrange their furniture with light in mind. If your teen has a dressing table, position this where light is optimum. If they have a reading corner, again look to set this up where light is plentiful. Rearranging the furniture is also a great way to freshen up the appearance of a room without any costly changes.

5. Pack away their winter wardrobe
Switching over your child’s seasonal wardrobe is recommended. You will feel super productive and, not having to trawl through a rail of thick jumpers to finally get to that hidden away t-shirt will streamline your morning routine. Winter clothing tends to be much bulkier, so you will need considerable storage space to be able to do this. Consider multi-functional furniture such as bunk beds for sale from Room to Grow. Neatly housing their winter wardrobe in underbed drawers out of sight for the spring and summer seasons will go along way in your de-cluttering efforts. The bedroom should be the most relaxing room of the house and clutter can interrupt relaxation and negatively impact your child’s quality of sleep.

4 Critical Reasons for Hiring a Pest Control Company

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Taking care of your home can be very time consuming and costly over the years, especially when you are concerned about keeping your home safe and healthy to reside in. Because of the overall cost and the time, there are some things that you can do yourself without calling a professional in to do the job. However, there are situations and jobs in the home that cannot be done by the owner and their families so easily. One job, in particular, is eradicating the home of pest infestations. Therefore, when these problems arise, you will need to know why it is so critical to hire a pest control company instead of trying to tackle these issues yourself.

That said, here are four of the most important reasons why you should hire a pest control company for your pest control problems.

1. Identify the Source of the Pest Control Problems
Even though there are products on the market that claim to get rid of nuisances like pests around the home effectively, not all of these products work the same. In fact, some of the products that you purchase for the home may even help to exacerbate the problem. So before you go out and buy a pest control product that can make your problems escalate, you should contact the professionals in the industry such as the company shown in this link: https://www.moxieservices.com/locations/orange-county/. They have many different locations throughout the country, so check with them to get all of your pest questions answered.

Hiring a professional pest control company is beneficial in a number of different ways, including helping to identify the source of the problems before they become an infestation in the home. By allowing these industry specialists to identify the source, they can assist in not only eradicating the problem completely, but also make sure that you can prevent future infestations. For instance, a professional pest control specialist knows exactly what sources to look for when they are identifying your problems.

2. Possess the Proper Equipment and Tools to Make the Appropriate Recommendations
Identifying an infestation may not be as simple as some home or business owners may think. In fact, based on the type of infestation, the source of the pest control problems may not be discovered by the owner or anyone else that lives in the home. This is because there are different types of pests that breed in different ways and need a certain type of habitat to thrive in. Hence, to find the source of the problem, these professionals are trained in using the appropriate equipment and tools before they can make recommendations to the owner. For instance, the source of the pest control problems may not even be visible to the eye. This is normally the case when the area of the infestation and breeding grounds are in your walls.

3. Saves Time - Avoids the Possibilities of Full-Blown Infestations
One of the main issues of concern when dealing with any kind of pest control problem is getting ahead of these issues before they become a full-blown infestation. Therefore, you should know that time is a big factor in solving these issues quickly. Knowing this in advance, you should know that a hit and miss on the shelf pest control product can be a huge mistake when the time is an issue. To avoid and eliminate these concerns altogether, you should hire a professional pest control company to do this work. With their expertise, they will not only do a quick assessment of what is going on, but they may also use a biological pest control solution to eradicate the pests control issues so that they will not return in the future.

4. Avoid Unnecessary Damages and Expenses
The cost of a full-blown infestation will not only compromise the health of anyone who is in the home, but it may also lead to additional damages in the home that’s not expected. If you can contact a professional to assist in eliminating these issues, you can also avoid the damage that can come from not getting it under control. For instance, different types of pests are known for causing certain types of damages. Typically, if you have a rodent infestation, it is important to note that they are well known for gnawing on your carpets, clothes, furniture and even your floors. Unfortunately, the cost of what they can do in damage can easily escalate to paying a very costly price tag when these infestations tend to linger.

5 Reasons to Fall in Love with Oak Flooring

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When you think of classic country homes and traditional rustic cottages, chances are you picture the stunning grains of oak in every direction. For generations, oak has remained a favourite material due to its robust structure and attractive appearance. Utilised for building, ornamentation, and furniture, oak has boundless applications in even today’s modern homes. But there’s one furnishing where oak really shines, and that’s flooring.

Oak flooring has been used widely in homes across the globe since the 17th century, and still manages to enchant homeowners today. As one of the most popular options on the flooring market, oak has demonstrated time and time again that it has a great deal to offer.

If you’re looking to renovate your home, oak flooring is a go-to choice that is not to be overlooked.

Still need convincing? Read our 5 reason why you should fall in in love with oak flooring, and get as excited as we are!

Timeless Appearance
The first thing you’ll notice about oak flooring is its timeless appearance. Oak has never been seen out of fashion, and will continue to captivate houseguests and residents for years to come. Oak never fails to exhibit complex textures, elevating the aesthetic of any living space with ease. Moreover, its stylish grains translate excellently to other flooring materials. Whether you choose to install solid wood, laminate, or luxury vinyl tiles, the bespoke look of oak will work just as effectively, impressing anyone who walks through your door.

Versatile
History has proven that oak flooring works with almost any kind of interior design. As a relatively neutral wood, oak can bring harmony to a plethora of furniture, décor, and palates, serving as both a solid backdrop for bolder furnishings, or as a focal point that’s full of depth. Oak is never out of place, and has been known to adorn the fanciest of French palaces alongside humble family homes. No matter what home or lifestyle is perfect for you, oak flooring will always be a positive addition.

Eco-Friendly
If you’re thinking that purchasing wood furnishings contributes to deforestation, then we’re happy to let you know that you’re wrong! Many oak flooring manufacturers look towards sustainable sources for their materials, working in accordance with strict FSC regulations at all times. This means that for every tree cut down, another is planted in its place. Furthermore, as a fully natural product, solid oak flooring does not rely on synthetic materials during construction, reducing the amount of harmful substances that may work their way into the environment. Make positive ecological change with your next renovation project, and opt for oak!

Cost-Effective
Whilst it’s no secret that solid and engineered wood flooring are two of the most expensive options on the market, this isn’t without good reason. For the initial steep cost, you’re certain to get unparalleled durability, exceptional low maintenance, and stunning visual features without fail. Wood flooring is known to increase property value too, so it could prove a wise investment for those who are thinking of selling up. Thankfully, oak is one of the cheapest hardwoods available, and still delivers outstanding results. Because of this, oak flooring is by far one of the most cost-effective choices you can get your hands on.

Long Lifespan
Alongside a myriad of other benefits, oak flooring does something that no other flooring material can: last a lifetime. With the right care and attention, oak floors will never need reinstalling, and have even been found to be over 100 years old in some homes! Because wood floors can be sanded and refinished, damages on the surface are easily pacified, allowing you to keep your oak looking flawless indefinitely. Amazing!

How to Keep Your Kids Fashionable and Protected on The Beach

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folpetto

When taking your children to the beach, you want to ensure that they are as well protected from the sun as possible. Having some sun is great and giving kids the freedom to run around and keep active is what they need, but as a parent, we cannot help but worry about UV rays. Children can be fussy in what they will wear and, therefore, finding fashionable items that will also keep them protected means having the best of both worlds. Here are a few ways you can do both.

Sun Hats
A sun hat is incredibly important, as the head is the most exposed part of the body to UV rays and is a part of the body that we cannot protect with sun lotion. If your child is a little older, the best way to ensure they will wear the hat is if they pick one that they like. For the younger children, you can purchase sun hats with their favourite TV show characters on. It’s also always a good idea to get one that can fasten around their neck or be tightened, so it stays put while the kids are running around and playing in the sand. You can also opt for a cap if your child prefers, anything that keeps the sun off their head.

Swimwear
There is a lot of swimwear out there for children and, therefore, it is best to find some that are not only gorgeous but are also protective. For example, brands like Folpetto sell swimwear for boys and girls that is made with UPF 50+ (Ultraviolet Protection Factor), meaning kids can look stylish while being fully protected from the sun. If you have a set of siblings who want to wear the same style of clothes, newer brands like Folpetto have started offering a matching sibling’s range, so there will be no more arguments about who gets to wear which swimsuit.

Sun Glasses
Kids usually love wearing sunglasses, so hopefully, it shouldn’t be a problem making them keep them on. Not only are sunglasses a stylish accessory, but they are also vital in keeping your children’s eyes healthy and preventing any long-term damage in later life. When purchasing some cool sunglasses for your children, ensure you look out for ones that are both UVA and UVB protected, as this means they are the best for your kids. The best way to teach your children to be sun safe is to be an advocate and follow suit. Remember to pick your best shades and wear them too; your eyes are just as important as theirs!

Beach Wear
When your kids are finished playing in the sea, it is good to keep as much of their skin away from UV rays as possible. This means purchasing some cute and stylish beachwear for them to wear. You can purchase everything from pants to beach cover-ups for children, meaning they can play on the beach in peace without you having to smother them in sun lotion every hour. For boys, you may want to opt for a shirt and pants, the more free-flowing the better, so they can still run around and stay cool. For girls, there is everything from dresses to skirts or trousers, depending on what your little one likes to wear usually.
Looking good on the beach has never been safer with swimwear made for protection against sun rays. Letting your children choose their own swim and beachwear means they will be happier to wear it and rem

How to Be on Trend with Oversized Clothing

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sea of shoes

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There is no doubt about it, oversized clothing is making a comeback. With everything from t-shirts, hoodies and padded shoulders, this trend can be seen in all the major retailers and catwalks alike. With well-known brands such as Balenciaga getting involved in the oversized clothing trend, there has never been a better time to look good and feel comfortable. Toss away your skinny jeans and get ready for baggy hoodies and floaty pants.

Why Did Oversized Clothing Make a Comeback?
It seems every trend likes to hit the catwalk every few decades, and this is no exception. Oversized clothing, especially shoulder pads were a big hit in the 1980s and it seemed the bigger the better. This sort of clothing came just as hitting the gym and becoming muscular began as a movement and these clothes were meant to follow this, making you look strong and powerful.
Whether oversized fashion is back on trend due to the gym once again being a big part of the social media world and fashion industry, or whether designers just decided to bring us something we can be a lot more comfortable in, you won’t find a much cozier fashion trend to get behind. If you want to know how to wear this fashion movement, read on for some tips and find out where you can get your hands on the best clothing out there now.

Bring Back the Shoulders
Once upon a time, shoulders on clothes meant the bigger, the better. Now, in the modern-day oversized industry, shoulders seem to be the least of the fashion designers’ worries and have taken a back seat. If you’re brave enough to give this trend a go, there are many ways to do so. Make a statement at work in a tailored suit with shoulder pads, making your work clothes that much more stylish and on trend.
You can even add shoulders to the suits you own for a fraction of the cost; simply purchase the pads and find someone who knows a bit about sewing and you have your very own tailormade suit in minutes. This works great for both men and women and you can choose how big you want the shoulders depending on your body shape and frame to ensure that this look works for you.

Go Loose and Long
Male or female, there is nothing more comfortable and stylish at the moment than long and loose t-shirts and hoodies. This also gives way to longer coats, which are another great way to be bang on with this trend. SSENSE currently stock some of the very best pieces by Balenciaga, one of this century’s most legendary designers, and when you see their innovative designs and oversized cuts, you will see why.
Why not choose a Balenciaga T-Shirt to style with some jeans and ankle boots or a Balenciaga Hoodie that would look great paired with a pair of pants and fashion sneakers? If you need some inspiration, check out what the models are wearing before you buy.

A Few Ways to Use a Steel Building in Your Backyard

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Have you thought about installing a steel building in your backyard? If you haven’t, it’s definitely something that’s worth considering. While you might think of steel buildings as structures that are used only on work sites, the truth is that these can also be used to enhance your outdoor space at home. Check out the information below to learn more.

A Garden Shed
Setting up a steel building as a shed is one of the most common ways that these structures can be used in a backyard. Rather than opting to build your own wooden shed or purchasing one of those plastic sheds that are sold in stores, you can opt to assemble a steel shed that will be sturdy against the elements and will last for years to come. Plus, once you look into steel building prices, you’ll quickly realize that you don’t have to break the bank to get such a high-quality shed that can securely house your garden tools and equipment.

A Home Office
Another one of the most popular ways to use a steel building is by converting it into a home office. If you do any work from home at all, this structure can serve as a perfect getaway from the other hectic rooms in your home. And the best part is that you can find the steel building that will suit your needs best, whether you need a large office space that can house everything from a large desk to filing cabinets, or you just need a smaller area where you can set up a small desk and laptop to work on.

An Art Studio
If you’re a creative person who needs to have a quiet and inspiring workspace to spend time in, whether you paint, sculpt, or anything in between, consider installing a steel building in your backyard. You can have your very own art studio to go to when you need to get things done without being interrupted, and you can design it however you like so that you always keep the creative juices flowing. Plus, being surrounded by the great outdoors might be just what you need to continually generate new ideas that will help you take your art to the next level.

A Man Cave
Don’t have room for a man cave in your house? Then why not add a steel building to your backyard and use that as your personal space to relax and spend time with your buddies? Choose the appropriate size structure and then decorate it however you like. Just be sure to run electricity to it so that you can have your TV, video games, and more, and then invite your friends over to have fun.

When it comes to steel buildings, it’s time to rethink how you can use these structures to enhance your life at home. Whether you add a small steel shed to your backyard, convert a steel building into a home office, or anything in between, there are so many ways to use these durable structures to your advantage.

5 fashion trends to look out for in 2019

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With so many big and exciting trends set in 2018, it is intriguing to see which trends will be hot this year. Social media has already shown us a glimpse of what to expect from this year’s clothing trends and celebrities are already starting their own trends for this year. In 2018 it was impossible to keep up with all the amazing trends hitting the high streets. Stores found that clothing was flying out the doors due to such high demand and everyone wanting to be up to date with the latest trends.

With summer fast approaching, it will be exciting to see how this year will be able to top last year’s trends. All last season’s sales are still on the go both on high streets and online. This is clearing space and making way for all the new and improved fashion for this year. Fashion designers and style icons already have new trends in the works and there is an air of mystery around this.

This year look out for pool party outfits to festival looks as well as cozy winter jumpers and fluffy jackets. In this article, we will discuss the next big trends coming soon. For more information on must-have wardrobe items that 2019 has to offer, continue reading to find out which trend you will be following this year.

Prom Trends
With proms getting bigger and better every year there are a lot of things to keep up with, for example - prom dresses. Every girl wants to have the best prom dress and one of the most popular choices is the classic red prom dress. However, no one wants to look the same as someone else in their prom photos and this is why girls are now looking for something new that stands out. Some of the must-have prom dresses for 2019 include fishtail styled dresses with sequins and crystals and dazzling diamond details. If you are looking for a designer prom dress, then the designer prom dresses by Jovani is the perfect place to start. Those that are looking to stand out can find some stunning sequined gowns from their collection, whilst those who are after something more stunning have a variety of lengths and styles to choose from.

Holiday Fashion
If you are going on holiday this summer, you will more than likely have bought some of the 2019s trends already. These trends include vibrant coloured tops and dresses, not to mention two and three-piece collections. Mesh tops and dresses are also a very popular holiday outfit and in 2019 you should expect to see more of these items being sold. For accessories to go with these trends big hooped earrings are making a comeback as well as colourful tassel earrings. For holidaymakers, you will notice that mini bags are becoming a lot more popular. This is because mini bags are a lot more practical for carrying around the essentials you will need for the day.

Pool Parties
If you find yourself booking a holiday with your friends to one of the top party destinations, then you will more than likely be attending a pool or even a boat party. For these events, people like to get very glamourous outfits because they are popular events. Pool parties have become a lot more popular over the years and a lot of trends from last summer will be making another appearance this year. Holographic swimsuits, sequins, mix and match animal print swim-wear will be available this year along with a newly popular trend: reversible swimwear. Reversible swimwear will become a lot more popular this year because it gives you two outfits in the one which will help you to stop over packing.

Festival Looks
If you attended any music festivals last summer then be prepared for even bolder fashion statements this year. If you are planning on attending any festivals this year expect more glittery outfits and face paints, a lot more neon and animal prints along with more mesh clothing and even more denim outfits. Festival outfits and holiday outfits are becoming more and more alike. In order to save some money; clothes that you get for festivals could also make an appearance on holiday. Not only will this save you money, but it will also allow you to pack other things in your suitcase.

Winter Trends
Although it may seem like a long time away, it is a good idea to get some of your 2019 winter trends a little bit earlier whilst sales are still on. The must-have wardrobe items for 2019 include faux fur jackpots and oversized cosy jumpers.
Make sure to get your hands on some of these must-have items to make sure that you are up to date with the 2019 fashion trends!

7 flavored syrup cocktails to make this holiday season

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(this is a sponsored post and wasn't written by me)

If you have the equipment and want to make great cocktails, you need to get the right ingredients. Most of these ingredients can be found at your grocery store or liquor store. While some of them are expensive, one of the most common ingredients include flavored syrups. With these ingredients, most of these cocktails are affordable and easy to make at home.

What's flavored syrup? It's a combination of sugar and water. It's really easy to make syrup. If you want to make it so good that your cocktails come out perfectly, you'll have to measure consistently. You can do this by combining one cup of water with one cup of sugar into a saucepan.

Aside from measuring, another thing you have to think about is dissolving your sugar into the water. Combine both ingredients into a saucepan over medium heat and stir it until the sugar is completely dissolved. You don't want it to boil since it'll make it too sugary. Allow it to cool at room temperature and transfer it to a container and store it in your fridge. Flavored syrup will stay in the fridge for about a month or so.

As the holidays arrive, bartenders will be using this syrup to liven up their cocktails. While the harvest season officially starts in the winter, using maple syrup and spices is ideal in the autumn. Some bartenders have already rolled out their holiday-themed drinks. Here are some of the best maple syrup drinks you'll want to make for your next holiday party.

The Harvest Moon cocktail is the perfect holiday drink with its combination of vanilla and nutty flavors. Papar's Pilar and Lustau Amontillado Los Arcos are mixed together to bring out its woodiness and nuttiness. Acid phosphate and maple syrup round out this drink. It's then stirred and poured into a glass for that added hint of sophistication and aroma.

The Maple Bacon Fizz is sure to warm you up this holiday season. This cocktail is topped off with fizzy maple syrup and a slice of bacon that's tantalizing on the palette. The maple syrup is poured directly into a bourbon which turns into a maple-flavored whiskey. When it comes to the fizz, the whiskey is then mixed with a lemon flavored syrup and a white egg for that extra frothiness. Concentrated bitters top off this flavorful drink.

The Suspended Ginger is a favorite in bars and lounges in the coldest climates. This drink is made with maple syrup and vanilla and citrus liquor. The flavors are balanced out with ginger and are finished off with orange bitters.

The Bartender's Handshake cocktail is mixed with apple juice, maple syrup, and bacon jam. Yes, bacon jam. It's topped off with a hint of Sazerac rye and garnished with an oven roasted apple. This fun cocktail is not overly complicated to make or drink.

The Aces drink is perfect for the gentleman who likes a strong drink. It's the kind of drink you'd see the characters on Mad Men drink. This simple cognac is paired with spirits and pear flavored maple syrup. It's finished off with an orange peel and a hint of concentrated bitters.

The Short Stack looks dreamy with its frothy finish. This drink is made with blueberry flavored vodka, buttermilk, vanilla, and a whole egg. It's as if you're eating a blueberry pancake infused with alcohol. Instead of fruity notes, it includes pomegranate syrup. This drink is shaken dry, then shaken with ice, and topped off with concentrated bitters that are made with gentian, herbs, and spices.

The Ginger is one of the spiciest drinks on this list. It's the perfect drink to take you into the holiday season. This autumn drink is made with two ounces of spirit and is topped off with apple cider. This bourbon is mixed with marshmallow milk, sweet carrot acid, and ginger-made maple syrup. It's then finished off with apple flavored hard cider.

These are just some alcoholic drinks that can be made with syrup. Most of these are sure to whet your palette this holiday season. Want to make a simple cocktail with maple syrup? Try the Aperol Sour or the Perfect Pear, both of which are infused with lemon juice or freshly squeezed lemon juice. Remember to drink responsibly this holiday season.

Wriggly Toes

Styling kids bedrooms is no small task, after all, you are dealing with some of the harshest critics in the known universe, small children. Balancing your needs to make a creative space that is safe and fun with their needs to have pink unicorns and rainbows, is the juggling act of every parent.  With the help of Wriggly Toes, you can rest assured that they have creative kids bedding that is not only playful, but also safe containing GOTS certified organic cotton.

Wriggly Toes crafts GOTS certified Organic Kids Bedding which means it not only one of the safest for your child but also for the environment, not something many bedding retailers can claim. To add to the wild imaginations of the little ones, they include bedtime stories which really add to the charm.

How to Successfully Style the Nook or Niche in Your Home

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So, has anyone else noticed the emergence of a new interior design trend? Whereas the awkward corner or peculiar spaced cut-out used to be the bane of an interior designers’ existence, all of a sudden, the ugly ducklings of interior design have become the darlings of the home fashion world. It seems like everyone contemplating a DIY project (it’s always a good idea to do your research before deciding whether to DIY) is now actively looking for ways to incorporate “a niche” or “a nook”.

What is a nook? What is a niche (and how do you actually pronounce it)? Why are they suddenly so popular? All valid questions (oh, and it’s pronounced similar to “quiche” or “leash”). Basically, a nook is classified as a space that is large enough for a person to occupy, but too small to be an independent room (a dedicated reading corner, a window seat, etc.). A niche is a recessed area of a wall that can be used for storage or decoration (you see them used a lot in modern bathrooms). Why are they so popular now? Personally, I blame reality TV. 

There are basically two separate categories of niches/nooks that you’ll generally find in a home: the “created on purpose” nook/niche (specifically built as a design feature) and the “it exists because of the building layout” nook/niche (the space below a flight of stairs). So, if you want to incorporate a nook or niche into your interior design, start by analysing potential spots that may already exist. If you need to create one, then it may be worth talking to an expert about the best way to go about installing one with minimal expense. But once you have your niche or nook, how can you go about styling it successfully? Remember, you want it to look intriguing and effortless, not overdone or sloppy.

• The Breakfast Nook: One of the easiest nooks to create, all you need is a trestle table and some stools or bench seats that slot underneath. This comfortable corner is ideal for a quick breakfast or even a late-night snack. The key to a successful breakfast nook is to style it so it suits the rest of the kitchen, and institute a family rule prohibiting the use of the nook as a dumping ground for books, bags and other assorted items.
• The Decorative Niche: The decorative niche is commonly found in close proximity to an entry door and will (if possible) have a downlight installed directly above to maximise the effect. Purely for decorative purposes, these niches look great with an attractive vase or an eye-catching sculpture taking centre stage.
• The Reading Nook: All a reading nook really requires is decent lighting and a comfy chair. If you have an inbuilt closet that is seldom used, consider transforming the interior into a little reading nook for your children to enjoy. Another great option is the awkward landing space commonly found at the top of stairs – install a cosy armchair, add a tiny side table and a free-standing lamp, and your reading nook is complete. Bonus points if you manage to incorporate a small bookshelf.
• The Storage Niche: The storage niche is great for creating extra shelving in the lounge room or bedroom, but its greatest value is in a shower. Why? Because we all know that the ugliest part of a shower is the shower caddy (responsible for holding shampoos, soaps and all other essential shower paraphernalia). Once you’ve installed a shower niche you will have a dedicated space where you can arrange all of your bottles and jars.
• The Picture Window Nook: This kind of nook will really only look good if it has been specifically built for this purpose. If you want to add one to your existing home then choose a longer room (you are going to lose space), preferably with a nice outlook. The ideal picture window nook will include a large viewing window, plus a window seat or well-positioned daybed; if you’re custom building this nook then be alert to opportunities to install inbuilt shelves.
• The Under the Stairs Nook: What used to be considered dead space can now become a study nook (small desk, chair and computer), a music nook (for storing the piano or any other musical instruments) or even a play nook for the children (some plush cushions and a few favourite toys). 

Regardless of where you choose to install a niche or nook, try and get the balance right between style and function. There are literally thousands of style ideas online, but not all of them will work with your space, so take the time to really consider what kind of niche or nook will best suit your home.

Simon's new toys (the boy is now 8 years old!)

Simon turned 8 a few weeks ago (!!!) and he got some really cool toys for his birthday - Brio village sets, a Star Wars game and his favourite was the Ravensburger Smartscope. 

Simon has some Brio pieces and we just love them - they're easy to put together and so well made. Here are some photos of the BRIO Village Family Home Playset and the BRIO Village Central Fire Station:

The Ravensburger Smartscope is right up Simon's alley as he is really interested in bugs and science. As I was putting together the Smartscope, I sent Simon out to find some bugs. This time of year (cold as heck), it's a little hard to find bugs so we ended up using a fruit fly and a teeny worm to use in the Smartscope. Super cool. Even I thought so...LOL:

You use the Smartscope with your smartphone by placing your phone in camera mode and placing it on top of the Smartscope as seen above. A little bit of focusing and above you can see the fruitfly that we found (damn bananas on the counter). I got better at using the Smartscope by the time we got to the worm:

Simon thought the worm was dead but he sure wasn't - it kept wriggling around like crazy as we watched him through the Smartscope. Simon is on the hunt for more cool things to use with the Smartscope. He just loves it!!!

Simon is a huge Star Wars fan and loves anything Star Wars. The Star Wars Eye Found It! game is perfect for those snowy Sunday afternoons or when Simon has his pals over for a playdate. It's one of those games that keeps the kids entertained for hours so this one is a big winner! 

toi art gallery

Need some quirky art for your home or for your kids' rooms? Toi art gallery has a unique and inspirational collection of art for anywhere in your home. Here are some of my favourites from their shop:

kashtanka

hug

afternoon

act 4

clouds

fuga

play

amanda

at sunset 3

at sunset 5

bonne annee

43 reasons not to forget

infinite thanks