If you are a stay-at-home parent to a toddler you know what a long day it can become making sure you have activities to entertain and keep them occupied. There are trips to the park, play dates with other parents and even errand-running as part of your jam-packed and hectic day. But when it’s cold outside or play dates aren’t possible, there is another option that your toddler will not only enjoy, but that also offers up some amazing … [Read more...]
Girls and women have come a long way in overcoming stereotypes in sport. One need only look at the popularity of female hockey and the stunning success of Canada’s Olympic women’s hockey teams as examples. But boys and men are still working to overcome some old-fashioned stereotypes in sport. Despite the strength, power and muscle demonstrated by our male Olympic gymnasts, stereotypes for young boys in gymnastics still exist. The irony is … [Read more...]
As spring approaches, it's time to think about opening your swimming pool in preparation for the upcoming warm weather. Here's what you need to do to get your pool ready for a fun-filled, relaxing summer. Remove the pool cover: Use a leaf net or skimmer net to remove any leaves or debris that have accumulated on top of the cover. Then use a submersible pump to extract any rain water that might be sitting on top (or just siphon off the excess … [Read more...]
Decorating on a budget? If you’re craving an update to your décor but don’t want to spend big bucks, visit an area rug gallery. Here’s why: Just one area rug can totally change the mood of a room. It can soften the look or add flair. A light coloured rug can make a room look bigger while a dark colour creates coziness. Rugs are a quick way to add a pattern, colour or texture. Much easier than painting and wallpapering! Area rugs are … [Read more...]
Over the past several years there has been a growing acknowledgement of the psychological and psychiatric conditions that can affect learning in schools. The understanding of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has increased dramatically and is now treated well with behavioural and nutritional therapy, parental and teacher training and in some cases medication. ADHD is only one of several conditions that affect students in … [Read more...]
The people of India have not traditionally consumed alcohol with their meals, but as gourmands in any country know; good beer and good food go together. Beer has been brewed in India since the early 1800s and the quality of beers there has advanced to a point where the country now produces a few award-winning brews. There is no reason that you can’t savour an Indian beer with your next Indian meal. Why beer as opposed to other drinks? Of … [Read more...]
Most of us do not; we take our tires for granted and really only look at them if there is a problem. Improper tire pressure is by far the most frequent cause of unsatisfactory tire performance or even dangerous consequences. Pressure which is too low will cause tires to overheat, especially at high speeds and will greatly increase the chance of suffering a blowout. Conversely, too much pressure will, at the very least, cause the ride to be … [Read more...]
In the past, people have relied on petroleum-based solvents and butyl-based chemicals to clean indoor areas such as office buildings, hospitals and restaurants. While these cleaners have been effective, they are known to damage surfaces and be harmful to not only the caretaking staff that uses them, but also building occupants and the general environment. Enter Green and Bio based chemical cleaning solutions! While they are both considered better … [Read more...]
You want your wine to last and proper storage (also known as wine cellaring) is a critical component to being able to enjoy your bottles of wine for a long time to come. You should store your wine in a cool, dark, damp place. Basements can generally be good locations for wine cellaring, which is why many wine lovers build wine cellars in their basements. Wines should not be exposed to excess oxygen, which is why they are sealed with a … [Read more...]
Ask anyone and they’ll tell you that getting high quality, energy efficient replacement windows is a great investment that will pay you back in savings on heating and air conditioning bills. However, it’s also not a secret in today’s economic climate that getting the money to make this kind of investment requires a little more planning than just a few years ago. Here are a few notes to help you put together a reasonable economic plan to … [Read more...]