Carpet tiles are a an alternative choice to traditional carpeting, and leave some room for your creative juices to flow. Carpet tiles offer many pros over traditional broadloom carpeting are certainly worth a look at. So what can carpet tiles do for you? Read on!
- East to install. Peel the backing and stick down just as you wood floor tile
- Easy to fit. They are 50 cm square and fit together nicely
- Creativity and flexibility. Let your ideas flow. Mix a multitude of colors, create a border, design a pattern, or do a solid color. Your choices are endless
- Easy to transport. They come in a box of 12 that’s easy to transport right in your car. No more waiting for the delivery truck to deliver a huge role of carpet and then fighting to get it in your house. Bring it in box by box with little or no effort.
1. Can I use carpet tiles in my kid’s room?
Absolutely. They are an ideal choice for kid’s rooms and the bright colors that are available are very appealing to children plus they add a cheeriness to the room. They are also easy to clean up and should one become stained or damaged just lift it up and replace.
2. Can I lay them by myself or will I need help
You can lay these all by yourself with out bothering anyone for help. In fact why not surprise your husband and wife with new carpet when they arrive home.
3. What kind of maintenance do they need
Nothing different from regular carpet. A regular vacuuming and a carpet cleaning when you do the rest of your home. They won’t shrink and they won’t lose their color.
4. Will I need underlay?
No. Carpet tiles have a special backing so you don’t need underlay. You’ll also need to lift any old underlay, then clean and dry the surface to ensure the carpet tiles stick properly.
5. What tools will I need to install the carpet tiles?
You will need a sharp utility knife with a nice heavy duty blade, double sided carpet, a ruler or straight edge, a tape measure, and a marker.
6. How will I know the quality of the carpet tiles
Just like with regular carpet you’ll need to find out the manufacturer and what their warranty is. Just like cheaper carpet you can get cheaper carpet tiles that may not have a warrantee and may not be made to last for years.
7. How do I choose the best carpet tiles for my home
The best carpet tiles are the ones that work for you, and the ones that give you the style and statement you are looking for. You’ll also want to consider the quality and how much traffic they will endure then buy carpet tiles that can withstand the punishment.
8. How do I remove hard stains like wine or ketchup from my carpet tiles
You will at some point find that an accident has occurred and resulted in a stain. Scoop up any excess solid, then soak the liquid up by dabbing firmly. Use a mild spot remover to lift any remaining marks. Many of the new carpet tiles are scotchgarded for easy removal of stains.
So with all this information do you now know what carpet tiles can do for you? Plenty!! And they are as easy to maintain as any carpet, while at the same time offering some creativity and affordability. So why not give them a try?
About The Author
John Murray makes it easy to go through the carpet buying process and provides tips to keep your carpet lasting long. To learn more and receive your free mini-course visit: http://www.carpets-guide.com.
HOOOOOOOOOOOEEEEEEEEE
Has summer come in with a bang!
Heat waves everywhere.
And where is the rain?
Yolanda is at camp this week.
She gets so excited.
She can remember that camp is a fun time for her, yet she can’t remember or tell you what she did during the week or her last day there.
A few miles west of Grand Rapids is “Indian Trails Camp.”
Indian Trails is a special camp for special needs people of all ages.
Camp is staffed with a registered nurse and camp counselors.
The counselors are college students. Many of them come from other countries that are studying and training in a special needs field.
Last year there was a counselor from Australia, Yolanda thought he was a HUNK!
It’s a good respite for all.
Mom is dealing with another bout of pneumonia.
They brought her to the hospital for a 12 hour stay and she’s still at the nursing home.
I just don’t know any more, I weep every time I leave her.
BIRDBATHS.
Recently I have had several questions on and about birdbaths.
So…….. I will address many of these questions again.
Now for you old timers……… you can still read this anyway.
Birdbaths come in many different shapes and styles. From a several hundred dollar fancy one to something as simple as a terra cotta saucer.
All too often, the fancy ones are more of a hassle to clean and keep clean.
The sculpting and flowers are a magnet for trapping dirt and algae.
They can have the proper dimensions and work great as a bath and a quick drink. Just remember they are extra work to maintain.
The width of the bowl isn’t a problem.
A problem can occur when the bowl is too deep.
A proper depth for a birdbath is 1 1/2 to 2 inches deep.
Anything deeper without a raised flat surface (stone or brick) can be asking for trouble in the way of drowning or birds unable to escape quickly.
It’s true, I have a clay bowl 3 inches deep for my robins and bluejays.
I also have a raised flat surface in the middle.
A Petoskey stone I found one year in the Little Traverse Bay at Bayview, Michigan.
It makes a nice added surface and a bit of a conversation piece for visitors to see a Petoskey stone that size.
We also have a two-tiered concrete bath on the tree stump style.
This is a left over from the years we owned our wild bird specialty store.
It’s very functional and gets used, but it takes more time and care to clean.
Still, I like it in my yard as an added feature.
The easiest one to clean and the one that gets used the most is a simple two piece concrete birdbath.
The bowl is 1 1/2 inches deep and has a bit of a raised surface in the middle.
It is a neutral color and a plain surface.
My smaller birds as well as my mourning doves are at this bath all the time.
We need to fill it constantly it seems and it needs sanitizing more often.
THINK LIKE A BIRD.
I keep bringing that up don’t I?
Thinking like a bird does not mean bird brained : )
Take notice as to where birds congregate for a bath, some playtime and a drink.
A simple mud puddle or where the sprinklers puddle up on streets and sidewalks.
Nature’s way of water for birds.
Natural looking sources will help attract birds to your yard and birdbaths.
Earth tone colors.
Tan, brown, terra cotta, gray etc.
Are you getting the idea now?
Natural feeling and looking surfaces.
Stay away from pretty colors like bright blues and greens.
These bright colors are usually found on the glazed baths which as a BIG NO, NO!
Oh sure, the glazed baths are nice and easy to clean, but how often are they getting used?
A glazed bath is also an invitation to a potential death or two.
Birds need something to grip, something to hold onto and feel safe.
Too often a thirsty bird or a juvenile will fall in and drown.
Young birds are clueless to life’s traps and dangers.
They see water or just a place to perch and may easily fall in.
Bigger birds like robins and smaller birds that may be perching, lose grips as well.
A soaking wet bird is slow in flight and a poor surface impedes flight a split second longer.
In nature, that fraction of a second can mean life or death.
Location, Location, Location.
A common phrase in business.
Also an important phrase when it comes to locating a birdbath.
Your bath(s) should be out in the open yet near protection.
An oxymoron?
Not really.
A bath should be placed in an opening or where nothing is growing, yet make sure there is a shrub or a tree near by.
Birds need to find a safe place to perch while they preen themselves.
A wet bird is a slow bird.
All of my baths are within 15 feet of a tree or other protection.
If you plant anything around your bath, make sure it is a low growing plant.
Cats will hide in your garden and pounce on your unsuspecting birds if givin the chance to do so.
Danger also comes from the sky, but birds will be looking for hawks
Also, place your source of water where you can enjoy the action.
Place it where it is easy for you to keep clean and filled.
I can’t number the times I’ve seen an empty or filthy birdbath that is totally ignored because it is located as a piece of yard art, not as a birdbath.
KEEP IT CLEAN
Well, you’ve got your birdbaths or other sources of water.
Now how do you keep it clean?
This isn’t rocket science, yet many people neglect this task.
Maintaining is more efficient then having to do a total scrub all the time.
Yes, it’s true a good cleaning is needed and you will know when it’s needed.
Here are a couple of things that I have found that work for me.
Near dusk, if my bath needs filling, I will refill with fresh water and put a cap or two of chlorine bleach into the water.
This keeps germs and algae down between cleanings and the chlorine will have oxidized by morning.
My favorite stuff is the oxygen bleach products.
I use this on a lot of things.
I was reminded by a dear friend that this stuff foams up some.
My apologies for not making that all too clear.
I can use my Oxi-Boost any time of day and feel safe.
It sanitizes and kills algae, even when my birds take a sip.
They don’t mind a little foaming action.
I sprinkle in just enough around the edges and a bit in the middle and let it go to work.
Experiment on this one until you find what works for you.
I would guess a table spoon full.
I like this stuff because it is all natural, environment friendly, won’t stain my clothes or if spilled, kill my plants.
The only drawback is it leaves a white residue when water evaporates.
I can live with that, however.
Every now and then, a good scrubbing is needed.
Especially on baths that have grooves and patterns.
Even worse to clean, are the ones with stone embedded.
If using chlorine or another harsh cleaner, place your bowl on a neutral surface like a driveway.
Let it soak for several minutes and then scrub.
Rinse and re-rinse.
Oxygen bleach can be done right where it stands without a problem.
I appreciate all the questions and inquirers.
Keep them coming and I will do my best to help out.
Whew………….. I’m pooped.
I hope this has been some help for you.
Hey…………. until next time my friend.
Have a blessed week and I look forward to chatting with you all.
Remember to SMILE.
Ron
Ronald Patterson, has been caring and feeding wildbirds in his backyard for more then 40 years. Ron and his wife Karen also owned and operated a wild bird specialty store for many years. With his gardening skills and knowledge as a Michigan Certified Nurseryman, Ron publishes a weekly newsletter called Backyard Birding Tips. http://www.backyardbirdingtips.com/ Sign up now and learn how to attract, garden and care for wild birds in your backyard. Ron, Karen and their daughter Yolanda live in the Grand Rapids Michigan area. http://www.backyardbirdingtips.com/
This is it - the finish line. You and your partner have been training for this event for the last 40 weeks and there is no turning back. Hopefully, you have registered in a prenatal class (aka childbirth education class) to help prepare you for labor and delivery. And if you haven’t already registered, then you should as soon as possible since spaces always fill up early. Very few couples, who are of sane mind, decide to face the delivery room without any preparatory training.
That said, this article is not intended to be your sole resource on childbirth education; rather, it is only a simplified version of what you can expect. You may use this article as part of your pre-prenatal education program or as part of your post-prenatal review. However you choose to use this article is entirely up to you, provided that you do not use it as your only information source.
Labor, like pregnancy, is divided into three parts: stage one, two and three. Stage one is further divided into three phases: early labor, active labor and the transition period. Don’t worry if this doesn’t make any sense to you now or if you find it slightly boring, since everything will become clearer after you read this article and take your prenatal classes. That said, you should be forewarned that childbirth education is a complicated topic.
After all, it is about childbirth and the labor process is laborious for both you and your partner. To make matters worse, the entire labor process is long, lasting an average 12-20 hours. Really. While the average length is about 15 hours for the first pregnancy, labor actually gets shorter with each subsequent pregnancy. Whatever you do, do not use this little piece of information as a way to console your partner while she is in her 18th hour of labor - she will be in incredible pain and is not in the mood to discuss future pregnancy plans. Enough said.
Now, let’s try to decode the stages of labor.
Stage One
Early Labor - At Home (Phase I): This is the longest part of labor, lasting anywhere from a few hours to a few days. This phase will begin by regular contractions (which are different from the Braxton-Hicks contractions your partner may have been experiencing irregularly over the last several weeks as her body began preparing for labor and delivery). These contractions are the real-deal and will intensify as your partner’s cervix begins to dilate. However, the contractions will be manageable and it is not necessary to go to the hospital yet. Your partner may also experience a small amount of spotting (i.e., blood).
Once this phase has begun, your partner should not eat anything unless her doctor specifically says it is okay (Note: Drinking water is highly recommended throughout all stages of labor). You, however, should eat and drink as necessary. Remember, you will need the energy to help coach your gal through all of this.
Your role during this phase is simply to help keep your partner comfortable and relaxed. Go for a walk, watch television or take a nap.
Active Labor (Phase II): This phase is generally shorter (about 3-4 hours), but more intense than the first phase. The cervix continues to dilate, bloody spotting increases and the infamous “water” will break. This is the time to call your doctor and head to the hospital. Still, there is no need to panic. Despite all the cliche scenarios depicted on television and in movies, childbirth is a slow process.
Reassure your partner that you are there to help her and that you are willing to do anything she wants. This may mean massaging her, feeding her ice chips or just leaving her alone.
Transition Period - At the Hospital (Phase III): This phase lasts a few hours and is characterized by intense pain as your partner’s cervix becomes fully dilated. If your gal is going to ask for pain medication during labor, this will be the time. She’ll be tired, sweaty and exhausted. Despite the desire to begin pushing, your partner will be ordered to resist, which will only make her more irritable. Your job is to encourage her to breath, relax and not push. She will only prolong the birthing process and cause undue strain on her body if she begins pushing too early.
Your partner will need a lot of support and, given the incredible pain, will not likely be nice or polite. Thicken your skin and be a man. Don’t argue with her, don’t try to reason with her and don’t get upset if she swears at you. Just suck it up and continue to coach her through the labor process.
Stage Two
If you thought that the transition period was bad, wait until you get to stage two. The pain intensifies and the amount of blood increases. Fortunately, this is the shortest stage of labor and the most rewarding. Your partner will be given the green light to begin pushing. Listen to the doctors and don’t interfere with this process. Just continue to support your gal with words of encouragement and within about two hours, your baby will be delivered!
Stage Three
The contractions continue for another 30 minutes as your partner’s uterus tries to expel the placenta. Both your partner and yourself will be exhilarated as the reality of what just happened hits you. After 40 weeks and many hours of labor, YOU ARE NOW PARENTS. Congrats!
So, if there are any lessons to be learned here, it would be these three:
1. Know your stuff and be prepared for labor. This means enrolling in childbirth education classes and preparing a birthing plan.
2. There is no rush to get to the hospital. If possible, try to relax and rest in the comfort of your own home during the early labor phase of stage one. The remaining phases and stages will be at the hospital and will be intense.
3. Expect a lot of blood and other bodily fluids, including poop (honestly!). Take a deep breath and go with it.
If you are an expectant father, make sure to visit www.thefunkystork.com for more male-oriented articles on pregnancy.
Owner and creator of http://www.thefunkystork.com - the only online guide for modern expectant fathers.
Prom night is always something you long to have during your school time. It always a night where you hope to be the most beautiful girl that time. However, life is not always perfect. Therefore, prepare yourself for the upcoming unforgettable moment!
After you have set up some interesting agenda, of course you don’t want to ruin it. It’s now only several days ahead! Have you prepared for everything? Make sure you have the most beautiful dress you’ve ever had and show it to the people around you on that important day. Don’t forget your prom shoes, girls! It’s one of the most important things you must prepare! You must also remember to match the prom shoes with your gown and let them make an amazing combination. .
A huge selection of prom shoes will surely make your party wonderful. You can choose pairs with beautiful and updated styles; of course with the matching colors and comfy fabrics. If you have some extra money, designer’s collections will definitely be a perfect choice.
High-heel shoes are probably one of the most favorite designs women choose for their special occasions. Strapped dress sandals are also ideal for women, making them look graceful with the high-heel feature they usually have and the elegant prom dress you’re wearing. Some women also love to wear ankle wrap sandals as well as pointed toe dress shoes. There are actually many more models women can choose for their big day.
And hey!! Some of the prom shoes nowadays are ornamented with flowers, and the most surprising one is, they are adorned with jewels, too! Can you imagine that? These models are absolutely going to be so pricey! But if you have a great budget for this and really want to look special and glittering, buying one pair of it will not be a bad idea.
Are you now ready for shopping? Well, using the Internet is the right decision for you to start. Find them at women’s shoes stores and just browse the selections through prom shoes category. You’ll find lots of attractive designs of prom shoes and women’s shoes to make you look feminine and gorgeous. However, don’t forget that the most essential thing ever is that you feel comfortable in those sexy, trendy, and stylish shoes or sandals! Enjoy your long evening and never again be bothered about your look!
Diana Claire lifelong for footwear led her became footwear reviewer. Visit her Website http://www.womens-dress-shoes.info and http://www.my-prom-shoes.info
Microdermabrasion is a procedure that improves skin condition. It is effective at reducing fine lines, fine wrinkles, small scars such as acne scars (although it is not effective on deep wrinkles or deep scars), and age spots. Microdermabrasion works by emitting tiny (micro) crystals that polish (abrasion) the skin (derma). This stimulates the production of collagen and other skin cells that make the skin look healthier. The treatment sessions last for about an hour but several must be done every few weeks. Microdermabrasion does not have a permanent effect, but it has other benefits that recommend it above other skin rejuvenation techniques.
First, it has virtually no side effects. Immediately after the procedure is done, the patient is able to go about his or her life without restricting time spent in the sunlight. Second, it is a non-surgical procedure so it can be done quickly (which has given rise to calling microdermabrasion a "lunch peel") and without anesthetic. Furthermore it works on all types and colors of skin. Unlike other skin treatments, there will not be negative effects on skin pigmentation because of microdermabrasion. People with skin types that are not suitable of these other procedures can safely undergo microdermabrasion without worrying about the negative side effects.
Want more Information about Microdermabrasion Cosmetic Surgery?
Find a qualified Cosmetic Surgeon in Your Area at http://www.sleepingswan.com
Written by admin · Filed Under Beauty
Looking At Metabolism in Children with Down Syndrome
by: Jane Orville
Research suggests children with Down syndrome have a lowered Basal Metabolic Rate, which is the rate a person burns calories for fuel when completely at rest - or sleeping. This means that children with Down syndrome use less energy when they are resting or sleeping.
Let’s look at an example. If you child is with a normal peer and eats the same amount of food and does the same activities, he will burn up to 15% fewer calories than his buddy. This means that his body has calories left over. Even 50 calories extra a day, a simple apple, will add up to 5 pounds a year. Take that over 5 years and you have an extra 25 pounds.
There are three ways to adapt for this difference in metabolism:
Increase activity
Limit calories
Increase activity and limit calories.
Beginning with a focus on physical activity has many more positives. A person can choose from a variety of aerobic activities that are enjoyable. Additionally, regular aerobic activity has many health benefits: increased muscle tone, decreased resting heart rate, decreased blood pressure, a sense of well-being , better sleep, and an increase in metabolism.
Ideas for adding aerobic activity:
Park farther away from where you are going
Take the stairs instead of the elevator. My son and I are often seen taking the stairs up and the elevator down — many times.
Walk or bike to activities that are in your community.
When you go to the park, play “tag” for 10 minutes with the kids. Don’t catch them, just chase them around. Parents think of swinging and climbing the play structure as being active. It’s not aerobic activity, except when running between structures.
It is important that the person with Down syndrome makes the choice of activity and is involved in setting the goals. The important part is to keep moving and have fun!
About The Author
Jane Orville is the mother of a 17 year old Daughter with Down Syndrome and has spent years researching and compiling all the wisdom she has gained into a simple guide to assist parents deal with the concerns of raising a child with Down Syndrome. For more information see http://www.down-syndrome-help.com
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