How Do You Refinance a Mortgage?

A mortgage pre-approval shows you what value of home you can afford, and the mortgage payments associated with it at various purchasing prices. It will guarantee a mortgage rate for a period of time, which will protect you against any potential rate increases.

Reasons to Refinance Your Mortgage

  1. Take advantage of low interest rates

Don’t let the penalties of breaking your contract deter you because breaking your contract for a lower interest rate can save you money in the long term (depending on the penalty and the size of your outstanding mortgage). Usually, if you have a variable rate mortgage, you will likely pay a penalty of three months interest. If you have a fixed rate mortgage, you will pay the greater of three months interest.

  1. Access equity (cash) in your home

If you refinance, you can access up to eighty percent of your home’s value, which is extra money for any investment opportunities, home renovations and more. There are several ways to access this equity which include:

 

  1. Consolidate debt

If you have enough equity in your home, you could pay out debt through a refinance. This is great for car loans, line of credits or credit card bills because you might be able to consolidate all of the debt through the refinance options available to you.

Methods of Refinancing Your Mortgage

There are actually several options available if you want to consider a refinance which are:

  1. Breaking your existing mortgage contract early

You could consider breaking your existing mortgage early only if you want to get a lower interest rate or to access the equity in your home. In this case, you will eliminate your existing mortgage and take on a brand new one with any lender of your choosing.

  1. Add a home equity line of credit

A home equity line of credit will give you access to the equity in your home at your own discretion. You will be responsible for the interest only payments each month on the outstanding balance. You can access a home equity line of credit either through your existing lender or through a small subset of other lenders.

  1. Blend and extend your existing mortgage

Your existing mortgage lender can offer you a “blended rate” which essentially means a blend of your current mortgage rate as well as any additional money that you are borrowing at current market rates. However, blended rates are usually almost always higher than most of the competitive mortgage rates out on the market, so make sure that you compare the blended rates against the savings if you break your mortgage, in order to make a worthwhile decision.

Costs of Refinancing Your Mortgage

The cost to refinance your mortgage will depend on the strategy you use to access your equity or to lower your interest rate. However, no matter the strategy chosen, you will have to deal with the legal costs that come with a lawyer, as they must change the financing on the title.

If your mortgage balance is over $200,000, most brokers and/or lenders will cover this cost. However, if you are breaking your mortgage in the middle of your term to access the equity or to lower the interest rate, your lender will charge you a prepayment penalty.

Peter Parvez sous les projecteurs, Montréal, Québec

L’emplacement de Peter Parvez à Montréal, Québec est ouvert depuis trois ans et demeure l’un des détaillants de mode pour hommes les plus branchés et accommodant de la ville. Peter Parvez se rend à Montréal chaque week-end et travaille dans ce lieu, ce qui signifie que c’est le seul endroit où vous pouvez prendre un rendez-vous avec Peter Parvez lui-même ! En raison de l’exclusivité de cet emplacement de Montréal, tous les clients sont tenus de prendre rendez-vous avant de venir pour un essayage.
Les visiteurs se rendant à l’emplacement de Peter Parvez à Montréal se voient offerts le privilège de rencontrer M. Parvez pour un essayage privé et approfondi avec l’un des plus grands noms de la mode masculine canadienne. La possibilité d’obtenir l’ajustement parfait avec l’aide d’un expert de la scène de la mode de Montréal est tout simplement trop belle pour la laisser passer. Les rendez-vous sont faciles à prendre ; une fois connecté à Time Centre, vous obtiendrez les dates où Peter est disponible. Il suffit de choisir n’importe quel jour et l’heure qui fonctionnent le mieux et votre rendez-vous sera réservé. Ne manquez pas cette occasion unique de parfaire votre style avec l’aide d’un professionnel de l’industrie!

Considéré comme une des villes les plus tendance en Amérique du Nord, Montréal abrite plusieurs créateurs de mode célèbres, mais aussi un grand nombre de résidents amateurs de mode. La ville de Montréal regorge de culture et d’une ambiance européenne omniprésente. On a souvent fait référence à Montréal comme au Paris du Canada et ce n’est pas difficile de constater pourquoi. Paris est une des villes les plus en vogue dans le monde et sa scène de la mode inspire le travail d’innombrables designers dans le monde. Montréal s’inspire beaucoup de la capitale française et lorsque vous rendrez une visite à l’emplacement de Peter Parvez à Montréal, vous pouvez voir vous-même la différence qu’une véritable inspiration peut faire.

Avoir des vêtements sur mesure est quelque chose que chaque homme devrait prendre au sérieux ; l’importance de bien paraître dans des vêtements bien ajustés ne doit pas être sous-estimée. Pour ceux qui entrent dans le monde des affaires, un costume sur mesure fera des merveilles pour vous aider à rester confiant et à faire une bonne première impression. Peter Parvez connait la mode masculine et un rendez-vous avec lui est ce dont vous avez besoin pour découvrir votre propre style.

Que vend Peter Parvez ?

L’emplacement de Peter Parvez à Montréal offre uniquement les plus beaux costumes ajustés, smokings et chemises habillées. Il y a de plus 2 000 tissus de chemises disponibles, ainsi qu’une gamme considérable de matériaux, de motifs et de couleurs. Les costumes sont disponibles dans plus de 200 tissus et dans une variété de différents matériaux, de coupes et de styles.
Tous les tissus de haute qualité de Peter Parvez sont vendus à des prix compétitifs, comparativement à d’autres boutiques de mode pour hommes de Montréal, offrant des marchandises de qualité inférieure à un prix égal ou supérieur. Chaque article vendu par Peter Parvez est fait sur mesure et personnalisé, selon vos propres spécifications. Il faut prévoir un délai d’environ deux à trois semaines, ce qui est très court par rapport à ce qui est offert par les autres tailleurs. Un service de livraison rapide est aussi possible avec des livraisons pouvant être effectuées au plus tard dans les cinq jours suivants la commande.
Peter Parvez se spécialise dans une variété de choix de vêtements tels que des costumes, des pantalons, des vestons sport, des chemises, des smokings, des foulards de poches, des cravates personnalisées, des manteaux longs, des jackets et des vestes.

Voici quelques-unes des marques notoires offertes par Peter Parvez:
– Vitale Barberis Canonico
– Scabal
– Loro Piana
– Charles Clayton
– Versace
– Reda
– Cloth Dormeuil
– Ermenegildo Zegna

Qui est Peter Parvez?

Peter Parvez s’est fait un nom comme le principal fournisseur canadien de vêtements sur mesure pour hommes. Ses racines vont jusqu’à Hong Kong, où, en 2013, il a commencé à vendre des costumes de qualité. Au fil du temps, Peter a mené son entreprise plus loin et a établi plusieurs emplacements partout au Canada. Depuis que son entreprise s’est développée si rapidement, il a acquis un nouveau surnom sur la scène internationale : « le couturier de Shanghai ».
Aujourd’hui, Peter Parvez possède des emplacements dans plusieurs secteurs d’affaires majeurs partout au Canada, ce qui fait de lui le choix idéal pour les travailleurs professionnels. Avec un ajustement en profondeur et une passion pour la mode masculine, Peter Parvez offre à chacun de ses clients des vêtements sur mesure et d’une qualité de classe mondiale.

Is Metal Roofing Worth It?

There usually comes a time of year when homeowners realize that they need to yet again spruce up their asphalt roofs because it shows signs of wear and tear. Constantly maintaining an asphalt roof can lead the homeowners to question whether or not it is time to buy new roofing material. One other sought out option is metal roofing. Metal roofing is used most often on residential, commercial and agricultural buildings.
Metal roofing is true to its name as it is composed of several metals – tin, aluminum, copper, and galvanized steel. Metal roofing is initially more expensive to install, but it is more beneficial in the long run.
A sure fire way to figure out if metal roofing is worth the additional cost is to compare it with other roofing materials.
Some of the benefits of metal roofing are:
Customization
The process of manufacturing metal roofing is fully automated, which allows for a more precise cut of the metal sheets. This added precision allows more creative licence for Green Metal Roofing Inc. in creating and delivering custom orders. This allows for a unique roof design such as Riviera, Prestige, Trapeze and Venice.
Environmental
The precision of the automated manufacturing process allows for a reduction of waste. In a blooming eco-friendly society, this is an added bonus. Metal roofs are install over existing shingles, which decreases waste in a landfill.
Longevity
Metal roofing is said to be made to last for 50+ years. In comparison to wood or asphalt roofing material, which will need to be replaced several times over the course of 50 years. It is known for lasting through various elements of the weather without any rotting, molding, cracking or chipping. Compared to tradition asphalt roofing material, which has a lifespan of 12 to 20 years, it is clear that metal roofing is more low maintenance.
More Colour Options
Green Metal Roofing Inc. offers customers a choice of seven colours for their metal roofing. There are various shades ranging from a rustic brown to a nice russet red depending on the personal preference of the homeowner.
Resilience
Metal roofs are known for withstanding all various types of weather and environmental disturbances such as heavy rainstorms, hail, snow, wind etc. The metal also is impervious to fire, and is resistant to any unwelcome pests and insect infestations.

Lightweight and Durable
Compared with roofing materials such as tile and concrete which roughly weigh about 750 to 900 pounds per square, metal roofing is lightweight at 50 to 150 pounds per square. Additionally, the materials in metal roofing are durable and malleable and can be bent into various shapes without cracking.
Temperature
Metal, particularly dark metals, reflect the heat from the sun which can keep the house cooler during the summer months – which can cut down costs of using air conditioning as much as you might use it for asphalt, tile, concrete or wooden roofing.
Overall, metal roofing could be the best choice for you home and give you that increased property value while providing you with all the other advantages as listed above. If you are interested in a quote or want to browse one of our stores visit us at our metal roofing website OR, at one of our locations – 3551 White Oak in London Ontario or, 1109 Derry Rd East Mississauga, Ontario L5T 1P3.

Are You Thinking of Renting Out your Cottage?

If you own a cottage property, you may be thinking of possibly renting it out for a short or long period of time. If this is the case, there are undoubtedly lots of questions floating around in your head. Who should I be looking to rent to? How much should I charge? When should I rent my cottage out? Is it even a good idea to rent my cottage out? Relax! There are answers to all of these questions. Renting out your cottage requires a lot of preparation, but it does not have to be a complete headache. Here are some tips that are sure to help you out!

 

Port Carling Water Front

 

Who should I rent to?

It’s very important to be careful in who you select to rent your cottage to. If you end up having problems with your tenants, it could lead to all sorts of trouble and unnecessary complications.

Good choices- your best choice is always going to be other family members, whether it’s immediate or extended family. You already know your family members and are 100% sure they can be trusted to take good care of your cottage. Friends are also a great choice for the same basic reason; you can trust them. However, you need to make sure your relationship with any friends or family members you choose to rent to is good. After all, mixing money with family or friendship can easily turn ugly.

If none of your family or friends are looking to rent, try to find either a younger couple or small family with kids. Both are likely to treat your cottage with respect and may even rent it for years to come if they find that it suits their needs.

Bad choices- complete strangers are always a risky choice, seeing as you know nothing about them. Also, if your cottage is quite large, try to avoid renting to large groups that are looking for the cheapest price possible per person. Instead, try to find a family that is willing to pay a little bit more.

How much should I charge?

You need to consider a number of things when deciding on how much to charge. First you need to factor in the cost of cleaning your cottage before and after the tenants arrive, and also the cost of advertising, which can add up quickly if it takes a long time to find a renter. Utilities and insurance costs are obvious expenses that need to be considered as well. Remember, even if you get the perfect tenants, your cottage is still going to experience general wear and tear, so you need to include maintenance and repair costs in your price. Lastly, make sure you consider your cottage’s location and adjust the rental price accordingly.

When should I rent my cottage out?

If you are looking to maximize your profit in a shorter amount of time, consider renting your cottage out during the peak summer season. Not only will this enable you to charge at a higher rate, but it also means your cottage will be available for your own use at less busy times of the year. If you see yourself being able to go longer without missing your cottage too much, then you might want to rent it out for not only summer, but spring and fall as well.

Remember, renting out your cottage doesn’t have to be an exhausting process. Make the right decisions and stay organized, and you’ll be all set!

Credit to Muskoka Luxury Real Estate – Muskoka & Port Carling Real Estate

Different Types of Professional Printing: Acrylic Prints vs Canvas Prints

The right printing solution can be the difference between a ho-hum image and one that does your photography skills justice.  Although both canvas and acrylic prints offer interesting and potentially captivating ways to display your pictures, they are vastly different in many ways.  It’s important to know what outcome each type of print will offer so that your end result is one in which you will be proud to hang or to offer to the public.   We’ve broken down various pros and cons of each option for you.

What is an acrylic photo print?

Acrylic photo prints are also referred to as Lucite, Perspex or Plexiglass (although these are just various name brands of acrylic.)  Prints can be achieved in one of two ways; either by direct printing onto the desired material, or putting the print onto paper first and then face mounting onto the acrylic surface.  The face mounting process is more expensive (as it’s more difficult to achieve than direct printing) but most customers who use this process faithfully consider it well worth the increased cost, as it offers greater colour vibrancy.  The face mount process means that the finished print retains the best of both printing on paper (colours do tend to look better when printed on white water of high quality) and the reflective quality that acrylic delivers.  Often viewers compare the vibrancy with this type of print to a 3D effect.

What is a canvas print?

Canvas printing is not a new technology, although the method by which it is achieved has changed and modernized.  It was first done by using an offset printing process, but now the majority of canvas prints are achieved through the use of dye sublimination or inkjet printers.  A canvas gallery wrap has become one of the most popular ways to display photos, partly because it’s a reasonably priced process and because it can give the image the look of an old fashioned oil painting.   A canvas print avoids the need for a frame and also for any photo mounting.   The canvas image simply wraps around a frame and can easily be hung.  They’re lightweight and versatile and can be found in both homes and businesses, although a canvas print won’t offer the same high resolution or vibrancy that an acrylic print can.

Part of your decision as to whether acrylic printing (face mount or direct) or canvas printing is your best option is entirely up to your preference.  Acrylic looks more sleek and modern, whereas canvas can offer an old world and romantic feel.  The mood you’re trying to capture with your photos will be best represented by one or the other.  There are other deciding factors that you should consider before you make your final choice.

Which print is more durable?

When it comes to durability, acrylic is the clear winner.  The acrylic surface provides moisture, UV and dust protection from getting to your print, whether you’ve decided on direct mount or the face mount method.   (The moisture protection is a bit less with a face mount option).  Although you can have your canvas wrap protected with a post print varnish, it doesn’t offer the same coverage that acrylic will.   When it comes to accidents, a canvas wrap, if dropped, will most often survive unharmed due to its light weight.  An acrylic print usually offers shatter free protection, but it can most certainly chip or crack if dropped, most often at the corners.  Both prints are susceptible to scratches, although if your print is hung high enough, it should typically spend most of its life out of harm’s way anyway.

Which process offers a more unique end result?

Take a look around at other displays and wander through your local art galleries.  What do you see?  Possibly because canvas is more financially feasible, it’s a popular choice, and so are traditionally framed prints, but when you do come across an acrylic mount, it stands out.  Many people have heard of acrylic mounts, but many have likely not heard of the acrylic face mount, although it is certainly growing in popularity.

Which offers a nicer appearance?

This is largely a personal choice; however there are certain specific features to take into account.  If you’re looking for vibrancy, acrylic is of course the hands down winner.  The acrylic mount gives your print a more modern look that can compliment a more modern decor in a home or business setting.  If, however, you’re seeking an intentionally slightly grainy appearance for a more old fashioned appearance, canvas is clearly your better option.  If you’re decorating an historic building, a log cabin or a rustic retreat, for example, canvas prints can seem right at home.

Which print will transport more easily?

This may or may not be an issue for you; if you move around a lot and treasure your artistic pieces, however, you’ll want to know which ones are more likely to make it to each subsequent destination fully intact.  Although we wouldn’t exactly call acrylic prints delicate, the light weight feature of a canvas makes it super easy to wrap and pack around.  It’s easier and cheaper to ship as well.

Which type of print is more affordable?

For financial feasibility, canvas is absolutely the best choice.  Those on a budget or with a lot of walls to cover with their favourite pieces of art will likely have better affordability with a canvas print option.  It’s cheaper than both acrylic and also more traditionally framing options.  Due to the easy accessibility of canvas printers (even many big box stores have their own canvas printing departments) you can usually find a great competitive price.  In fact, if you keep your eyes peeled, or take a look through the fliers that so often overwhelm your mailbox, you will often see sales with huge discounts.

No matter which printing option you like best, the most important thing is that it provides your chosen artwork with the finish that it deserves.

Credit to Lamin-8 – Acrylic Printing Toronto

Why art lessons are important in early ages

Art is a great way to engage a child in the exploration process and build up its creativity potential. Many research results show a positive impact of kid’s exposure to art on the development of brain capacity, especially in the early childhood. But art is also a fun; children are delighted to play with different art materials and explore limitless boundaries of visual arts. Here are some tips if you’ve been thinking of inspiring the Picasso in your child.

Art inspires creativity

We all have some type of creativity within us, and it often helps to balance our mood and bring about feelings of happiness when we can give ourselves over to it.  In young children, this creativity can sometimes come with the trials and tribulations of mess making or even a bit of destructive behaviour (drawing on walls, for example, or tearing up your family photographs).  Art is one way to redirect that creativity in a productive and positive way.  Children enjoy a variety of different materials to work with and explore, so the more options that you offer, the more fun can be had!  The key is to let their imaginations take hold and offer only a little direction to see what they can come up with.

Art offers opportunities for self-expression

Art is a wonderful way in which children can express themselves, and it often is a more productive way than they might otherwise choose.  It can be frustrating not to have the necessary vocabulary or emotional maturity to express how you feel and what you’re thinking, but art can take that frustration and demonstrate it.  This will help your child to learn how to deal with stresses and issues as they grow as well.

Art builds fine motor skills

Since the construction of art can mean the use of paints, scissors, markers, crayons, brushes, and a whole variety of tiny objects, children learn to control their muscles and fine motor control.  This will help them further down the line when they start school and try their hand at writing and drawing.

Art support development of cognitive skills

Planning, problem solving and experimentation are all important parts of your child’s development.  When children have the opportunity to practise these useful skills when they are doing something enjoyable, (drawing, making collages, painting, moulding clay) they are also absorbing the shapes, sizes and colours of objects.  Making certain decisions results in certain outcomes; this helps children to understand the concept of cause and effect.  They are also learning that their decisions play a role in the specific results in a scenario.

Art teaches kids to work together

Especially when making their masterpieces in a class setting, children can learn about respecting the space and needs of others around them, and values like sharing.  There may be a limited number of a popular item, and this type of situation offers children an opportunity to work together towards a fair outcome for all.  It also gives them a chance to praise others for their work and to be recognized for their own efforts by peers.

Creating art can be a wonderful and valuable way to spend time with your child and recognize their growing abilities.  Keep in mind that art is a process, and the benefits can stay with your child for a lifetime.

Credit to Sparkling Art Piano – Art Classes for Kids Chicago

Vision Problems at Different Stages of Life

Since May is Healthy Vision Month, now is a good time to discuss and learn more about vision problems and what can be done to correct them. Throughout the various stages of our lives, we can be prone to different vision problems and eye diseases.  From infancy to living as an adult over the age of 60, here are some of the most common vision issues at each stage of life and the care and attention they require.

Infants

Strabismus- a condition that usually affects babies that are older than 3 months, it is characterized by a misalignment of the eyes preventing normal binocular vision. It is normal for all people regardless of age to converge their eyes when looking at something close.  Infants usually develop normal fused binocular vision by the age of 6 months.  Therefore, it is recommended that infants have their first eye exam at this age.  Strabismus can often be corrected with glasses if your child is farsighted and an esotropia is present.  Esotropia describes the situation when the eyes converge or turn in too much.  Exotropia is the strabismus where one eye is pointed outward.  The most common form is called exotropia of divergence excess.  It can be corrected in some cases with glasses when a refractive error is the cause of poor binocular coordination.  Exotropia may also be corrected with muscle training called orthoptics.  Some forms of strabismus ultimately require surgical correction, which uses muscle shortening or muscle reinsertion into the eye to achieve binocular alignment.

Amblyopia- also called lazy eye, this is when one eye is weaker than the other and is usually a direct result of strabismus, but can also develop in the presence of an uncorrected vision deficit that affects one eye more than the other (usually this occurs when one eye has a prescription greater than the other by more than 1 dioptre, and more often seen in cases of hyperopia or astigmatism as opposed to myopia).  When cross-eyed develop in adulthood, diplopia or double vision is appreciated.  This is often associated with stroke, but can also be the result of less serious issues.  When this happens in infancy, if it is not corrected quickly could lead to the brain ignoring the visual info from the deviated eye and this can lead to lazy eye.  A lazy or amblyopic eye is an eye that cannot see to the normal level of 20/20, even with the best possible vision correction in place.   Amblyopia is often treated through patching the dominant or stronger eye, forcing the brain to use the weaker eye’s information and start to lay the neural networks that strengthen the eye-brain connection.

Hyperopia– this vision condition is normal in infants and children up to the age of 7.  High hyperopia or significant asymmetry in the amounts of hyperopia can lead to amblyopia, headaches, attention deficit and learning difficulties.  Hyperopia is present when the relaxed eye’s focusing is too weak for the length of the eye.  Hyperopia can be compensated for by using accommodation.  When this is not adequate or sufficient to prevent symptoms or the development of lazy eye, glasses are prescribed.

Children

Myopia- probably the most common vision problem in children and one whose incidence is on the rise, is also called nearsightedness and is characterized by the inability to see things at a distance clearly. The distance at which objects become blurry depends on the level of myopia.  It is especially impactful in children because good eyesight is key for learning in school. The most common treatment for myopia in children is corrective glasses, and as children approach their teenage years contact lenses become an increasingly popular alternative to glasses.  At least 2 hours of outdoor activity is recommended to reduce the incidence and progression of myopia in growing children.

Conjunctivitis- also called pink eye, this is a viral or bacterial infection that affects the mucous membrane covering the outer eye. Your child’s eye will be red or pink, discomfort/itchiness may or not be present as well as any discharge.  Since conjunctivitis has many possible causes, including allergic or contact lens induced, any red eye should be investigated and treated appropriately to avoid discomfort, spreading the condition and even possibly permanent vision loss.  Self diagnosing and treatment with over-the-counter remedies is never a good idea due to the possibility of permanent vision loss.

Teenagers

Astigmatism- this problems results in blurred vision at all distances, but often with symptoms of blurred vision at a further distance and eyestrain, or asthenopia, with near vision tasks. It is often the result of a football-shape of the cornea and is most common in teenagers. It can be corrected with prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses.

Adults

Presbyopia- this is by far the most common vision problem among adults over 40. Near vision focus starts to blur (the process of weakening near focusing otherwise known as accommodation begins in our twenties and finally captures up to us in the fourth decade of life) and the ability to do things such as read, sew and work on the computer becomes more difficult. The most common treatment for presbyopia are eyeglasses, but multifocal contact lenses are becoming an increasingly popular method of correction. Reading glasses are worn for close-up reading and other near vision tasks.  Bifocals or progressive lenses (i.e.. invisible bifocals with a power progression) are special lenses that are made with two or more points of focus, for both near and far vision correction.  Progressive near lenses are like conventional progressives, but they offer a range of near vision focus for people with more advanced presbyopia that want a range of near vision, such as from the computer screen (arm’s length) to regular reading distance (usually 16 inches).

Adults over 60

Cataracts-  the internal lens of the eye naturally clouds as we age.  This is called a cataract.  Not all cataract lenses need to be surgically removed.  When the cloudiness begins to cause vision or lifestyle issues, even in the presence of the best most up to date prescription possible, then it is time for the cataract to be removed.  The cloudy lens is replaced with an implant called an intraocular lens to replace the power of the natural lens.  Today’s implants can correct both hyperopia, myopia, astigmatism and also are available in multifocal modalities.

Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) – this disease is characterized by central vision loss due to aging and breakdown of the photoreceptors in the macula (the area of the light-sensitive retina found at the back of the eye).  Only central vision is affected, with peripheral vision remaining intact.  Unfortunately, it is the macula that is responsible for our most detailed vision, such as reading, color perception and facial recognition.  AMD can be treated with anti-vasogenic drugs, but there is no cure.

Good vision is important no matter what age we are, so remember to take good care of your eyes by wearing sunglasses, leading a healthy life style and eating lots of dark green, leafy vegetables and fruits, and of course having regular, routine eye health and vision exams!

Credit to Dr. Jeff Sciberras

How do Dermal Fillers Work?

If you’ve been thinking of turning to more advanced skin treatments to help you achieve the look you’ve always wanted, you will undoubtedly have a lot of questions. You’ll want to know that your desired treatment is going to be safe and will give you the results you want. One treatment you may be wondering about in particular is dermal fillers. Dermal fillers can help reduce the signs of aging in your skin and are a popular treatment for individuals just like you. But what exactly do dermal fillers do? How do they help you get better looking skin and reduce the signs of aging?

What are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are used when the amount of fat under our facial skin is reduced as we age. This loss of fat means that the muscles in your face will start to work closer to the skin, increasing the visibility of things like smile lines and creases. To offset this, dermal fillers are injected either under or within the skin and work to bring the contour and shape back to facial features, or to soften lines and correct deep wrinkles.

Dermal fillers can be used to treat the following:
– Forehead wrinkles
– Under eye hollows
– Cheeks, jawline, and chin area
– Scars, including acne scarring
– Nasolabial folds
– Nose
– Lips

How is this Different from Botox?

Botox is an injectable that relaxes over-animated facial muscles in order to decrease wrinkles being formed as a result of the over-activity. Dermal fillers on the other hand are injected to fill in any spaces in the skin where volume and soft tissue is either lost or insufficient. There is no effect on the facial muscles when using dermal fillers; it is a minimally invasive process.

Natural Vs Synthetic Dermal Fillers

There are two types of dermal fillers; natural and synthetic. Natural dermal fillers generally last a shorter amount of time, with most people who get them needing to return for more within a year or so. However, natural dermal fillers carry a smaller chance of causing an allergic reaction. If a reaction does occur, the effects will not be permanent.

Synthetic dermal fillers last much longer than natural fillers, with some people classifying them as permanent due to the fact that they never really dissipate. If an allergic reaction occurs as a result of a synthetic filler, the effects are more likely to be permanent given the long lifespan of the filler itself.

Are Dermal Fillers the Right Choice for Me?

If you are finding yourself dissatisfied with your regular skincare routine, and still seeing annoying signs of aging despite your best efforts, dermal fillers may be just the thing you’re looking for. You want your skin to stay healthy and beautiful, and with all of the different options out there, it can be hard to make a decision about how to achieve your desired skincare results. Now that you know more about dermal fillers, we hope that your decision will be a good deal easier.

Credit to DermaTech Laser Clinic

Protecting Your Hardwood Floors from Dog Paws

It’s no surprise that dogs and hardwood floors can be a recipe for trouble. Finding deep and noticeable scratches on your hardwood floor is not uncommon if you have a four-legged friend running around the house. If this is the case in your home, and you feel like you may be at a loss when it comes to possible solutions, don’t worry because there are ways to solve the problem! Here are some quick tips to help prevent those pesky scratches from constantly showing up.

Trim Those Nails!

By far the biggest reason your dog is scratching your hardwood is because of overgrown nails. Your dog’s nails need to be regularly trimmed in order to avoid annoying scratches. How can you tell if your dog’s nails are too long, you ask? Listen for a clacking sound as your dog walks, if you hear it, then their nails are definitely in need of a trimming. You can either do the trimming yourself with a pair of scissor-like clippers, or take your dog to a veterinarian or professional groomer to get it done.

Keep your Floors Clean

It’s always a good idea to keep your floors free of dirt and hair, as they can act like sandpaper and grind into your hardwood when your dog runs and walks across the floor. Clean your floors regularly using a cleaning method of your choice.

Apply Protective Coatings

For a more permanent solution, consider checking with your flooring’s manufacturer to see if there is a protective coating available for their product. If there is, make sure to apply it regularly in order to maintain a strong protective barrier all year round. You also may choose to apply a protective layer of wax that will help form a protective barrier between your floor and your dog’s nails. Doing this means it will be easier to treat any light scratches you happen to find by simply reapplying wax and filling the scratches in.

Boot Up!

More and more dog owners are purchasing specially-designed fashion accessories for their dogs that are meant to protect hard wood flooring from being scratched. The most popular of these are boots that you can put on your dog’s paws. It may seem like a more farfetched idea, but it can be extremely effective in making sure your hardwood stays beautiful and unscratched. Although your dog may be walking a little bit awkwardly at first, they will get used to their new boots and eventually forget they are even there.

Throw Down some Carpets and Rugs

If you’ve tried other solutions but find that none are really working for you, you could always make a quick fix and simply place rugs or carpets over any parts of your hardwood floor that see a lot of dog traffic. Doing this will protect your hardwood with minimal hassle for both you and your canine companion.

Much like raising children, raising a dog means you are going to have to deal with the occasional mess and minor damage to your home’s interior; but with these tips, you can have a much easier time dealing with hardwood floor scratches and loving your dog at the same time.
Credit to Milton Hardwood

Pests Control Myths

Ask around for advice on help to deal with pests that are plaguing you and your home and you’ll get a variety of answers. How do you know which ones are worth your time and which ones will leave you frustrated? Here are some commonly held beliefs that won’t get you anywhere closer to ridding your space of the creatures that have moved in on your turf.

1. Boiling water will kill ants.
You can probably substitute other insects as well; I’ve heard this one as the answer for dealing with ground wasps as well, and I can tell you from experience that it’s not worth the energy it took to boil the kettle. The boiling water will certainly kill the insects that it comes into contact with, but the water will cool down before it reaches the inner sanctuary of the queen and larvae, meaning a new generation will quickly replace any that you’ve managed to eliminate.

2. You can bait mice with cheese.
It seems mice will eat anything, judging by the look of chewed cereal boxes in your cupboard, and we’ve all seen that mice traps do their job just fine, but there are far better baits than cheese for the task. I’ve actually had traps sit empty with their tempting bits of cheddar for days on end, and as soon as the cheese was swapped with peanut butter or fruit – success! Mice are actually more attracted to food with a higher sugar content than cheese will offer.

3. Keeping linens clean will stave off bedbugs
Bedbugs will actually live wherever they are offered a food source (namely, blood) and they’ve aren’t very particular about the accommodations. Although washing your bedding will take care of some of the bugs if you’re infested, bed bugs are incredibly adept at hiding out in any crack or crevice they can find.

4. Bug spray is only useful early morning and again at dusk
Not true! While it is true that only female mosquitoes bite (they require blood to lay their eggs), they will attack at any time of the day, so keep your repellent handy. Citronella candles are also a great way to deter these insects from preventing your enjoyment of the great outdoors.

5. Ultrasonic repellents can rid your home of spiders
If you’re creeped out by spiders then the idea of keeping them at bay with an easy household tool you just plug into the wall can seem like a dream come true. Unfortunately, there is absolutely zero scientific research to back this up, so keep your money in the bank.

6. Choosing a concrete slab or bricks will eliminate a termite infestation
Although some of your homes may be built with products other than wood, most homes are built with a wood frame, and termites aren’t fooled by a concrete foundation. If there’s wood, they’ll find it.

There are, of course, a variety of ways that actually will work to rid your environment of pests. Do some research, and in the event of a large infestation, calling a professional is always best.

Article Source:

By Justice https://firstcontactpestcontrol.ca/pest-control-myths/

Different Types of Wheels and Which is Right For You

We spend a lot of time in our vehicles – whether we’re commuting to work or school, travelling, or driving for pleasure, it’s important to know that you’ve got the right wheels for your use and weather conditions.  It’s best for them to be professionally installed; torque and wheel wear are all things to be considered when having tires put on, and your dealer has the knowledge required to get it right.  You’ll also want to consider wheel size, width, tread pattern, quality and name brand when trying to decide what tire to go with.

Remember that no tire is good for the entire season; shifting temperatures and road conditions call for different treads and composites, and a tire worn year round will wear down fast.  In order to get optimum performance out of your vehicle, and to maximize the safety of you and your passengers, no matter what vehicle you drive, you’ll want season specific tires.

Summer Tires

As their name implies, these are the tires you should have installed for the fair weather seasons; they’re designed to withstand hot temperatures (and, in turn, hot paved roads) and wet conditions due to showers.   Tread patterns on your summer tires are designed for water evacuation and to resist hydroplaning, so you have better control on wet roads.

mississauga winter tires

Winter Tires

Most people will think it’s the treads that are the main difference between summer and winter tires, and the treads do definitely differ, but it’s the type of rubber used in winter tires that provides the biggest performance difference.  Winter tires are designed to withstand freezing temperatures, and the rubber compound needs to stay soft when temperatures drop.  The treads need to both grip the road (or bits in snow and ice) and are built with grooves to siphon away water and keep more tire in contact with the road.

 

All Season Tires

Some will say that all season tires just won’t make the cut, but all season tires can be a good choice for some people.  Their tread is deeper than that of a summer tire, and they have a good balance of features designed to hold up during cold or hot months.  Think of the all season as a jack of all trades, master of none.  They will do a good job, but aren’t designed to excel at any particular road condition the way that your winter or summer specific tires will.  Overall, their durability can be long lived, and they’re good for a wide variety of vehicles and for the average driver.

mississauga studded tires

Studded Tires

Studded tires come equipped with small metal studs embedded in the tread to help your tire grip onto snow and ice on the road.  The drawback is that they’re good for just these very limited conditions, but could damage roads (or your driveway) that aren’t covered during harsh winter months.

As of January 1st, 2016, all private insurance companies in Ontario were obligated to offer a discount to drivers that invest in a good set of winter tires (all 4 wheels must have them) for their vehicles.   If you’ve invested in a set, check with your insurance company to ensure you’re getting the discounts you’re entitled to.

These aren’t the only things to think about when determining the best tires for your vehicle.  Think first about the type of vehicle you own, as tires are built specifically with yours in mind.  A truck, for example, requires a whole different set of parameters than a small sports car or family wagon.  The way you drive is also impacted by the type of vehicle you own.  The tires on a minivan hustling the kids back and forth to school and soccer practise won’t have the same wear as the sports car driven by a single trying to impress his or her friends by dropping the needle.  Tires will likely last longer on a vehicle driven by a fixed income and financially savvy retiree than by a new driver in their first ever vehicle putting that little car through its paces.

tire repair mississauga

Touring tires are great for comfort and are practical when it comes to an overall balance and dependability, while high-performance tires are better suited for a sports car or for those looking for better handling at higher speeds, especially when cornering.  You might be looking for a light truck tire that helps to keep you out of sticky situations when off-roading, while if you drive an SUV an on-road tire with a high comfort level might be in your best interests.

The tread, width, tire quality as a whole, and rubber composition, of course, will all have an impact on how well your tire performs, and our professional team can help you to determine which will perform best for you and your family.

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Article Source:

By Justice https://416wheelsandtires.com/different-types-wheels-right/

How to fix your blue screen errors in Windows

If you’re anything like me, a blue screen error can have you screaming for the nearest computer technician.  Most of the time, we feel that any computer problem is way beyond our capabilities.  The truth is, with a little patience and some know how, some of our blue screen errors can be addressed without having to call in the cavalry.  Try these troubleshooting tips to both help fix common blue screen errors, and take some preventative measures to help stop problems before they start.

Driver issues and faulty or outdated apps are often at the root of this type of problem.  Your first step with solving these issues is to close down any open program on your desktop. Check to make sure that you have the most updated version of malware installed.  If not, update before proceeding, and if you’ve already got the most recent version, run it now.  Once that has been completed, disconnect from your internet, and restart your computer.  Start tapping the F8 key, and, using your arrow keys, select the Safe Mode when the Advanced Windows Boot Option Menu shows up.  Back in your malware program, run a complete system scan.  You’ll want to quarantine or delete the threats that the malware program locates.

A clean computer registry is critical for keeping your system running smoothly and error free.  It your registry has been compromised, you’ll need to clean it up using registry maintenance software.  This clean up should be done on a regular basis to help keep your computer running at top capacity.  You can find free registry software online.

If you have never cleaned up or updated programs and applications, you’ll want to take the time to do that as well.  Look in your Control Panel and find Programs and Features.  Once there, you can either remove programs that you don’t use anymore or update with a newer version.  If you enable your automatic update, then the computer can keep tabs for itself in future on all Windows updates once they’re released and will automatically install them for you.

Here are some tips to prevent future problems and threats:

  • Steer clear from third party drivers, as the use of these can lead you down the road of messy computer errors.
  • Install a firewall to help stop threats in their tracks and avoid viruses
  • Before installing any and all new software, be sure you actually read and understand the End User License Agreement. If you’re not sure, ask for help, either from a friend or from a professional.
  • Always scan emails before opening and reading.
  • Only download software, apps, files and programs from sources that you trust.
  • When in doubt, stay away from the website.
  • Always ensure that you scan an external device before attaching it to your computer or laptop.
  • Always ensure that your anti malware is the most recent version and that you use it regularly

With these tips, you should be able to tackle the toughest blue screen error.

Article Source:

By Will – Mar 6, 2017 – https://www.rosedalecomputers.com/2017/03/06/how-to-fix-your-blue-screen-errors-in-windows/

Creating a safe nursery room

Designing a nursery room can be an exciting time for new parents, and the options for fun and stylish rooms are endless.  Most parents will be focused on color, furniture layout and choosing just the right personal touches.  Safety can play second fiddle, so when you’re in the throes of design excitement, here are a few things to keep in mind.

Safety Standards

It can be fun to refurbish old, antique furniture for a baby’s room.  Maybe you’ve got some pieces that have been handed down and hold personal value, but they may simply not be the safest option for your new little family member.  Safety standards have changed and antiques or retro cribs and furniture aren’t likely going to make the cut.  Crib slat spacing and hook-on mattress supports may pose an entrapment hazard, bassinet sides may not meet current height requirements, and even the paint may be a cause for concern due to lead content. It’s not just changing safety standards, some products that were popular in your childhood may even be banned as is the case with walkers.  Don’t despair – sometimes pieces can be salvaged and brought up to code with some changes.  Just do your research and plan accordingly.   Also keep in mind that, while extra pillows and comforters look cute, they can present their own safety hazards for babies and young children.  Keep your design simple and hold off on bedding frills at least for the first year.

Windows

Window dressings can be just the thing that ties a nursery together, but sometimes blinds can present us with another set of safety challenges.  Numerous deaths could have been prevented if cords had been properly set out of reach, or sometimes avoided all together (cordless valances, shades, or curtains are great options).  Furniture placement can also be detrimental.   If located too close to a window, furniture can present an opportunity for a young child to climb, and screens won’t provide any type of failsafe.  It’s best to keep windows clear of any furniture or toy bins.

Furniture

Heavy furniture should be bolted to the wall even if your child doesn’t show signs (yet!) of being an industrious climber.  Even a light bookshelf, when loaded with stories or decor, can present enough of a danger that it’s best to make sure there’s no risk of having it fall over. And it’s not just bookshelves that pose a tipping hazard; any chest, dresser or storage unit over 30 inches tall should be secured to the wall.  Most new furniture includes anti-tip straps and many hardware stores carry lines of straps, bolts and plates with exactly this type of use in mind.

Details

Outlet plugs are a must, and it’s best to tape rugs to the floor to prevent slips and falls.  Keep change table necessities well out of reach (oils, powders, creams); cosmetics and personal care products are the most common forms of poisons ingested by children under age 6.  When looking for wall decor, search for pictures that are lightweight and not easily breakable.  It’s a great idea to hang simple, frameless pictures or prints on canvas and avoid dangers of heavy falling items or glass breakage.

Your baby’s nursery can certainly be the gem of the household. A bit of forethought will ensure a safe and stylish room in which to share time with your child.

Article Source:

https://bedroomfurnitureandmattressgallery.com/blogs/news/creating-a-safe-nursery-room/

5 Healthy Foods to Control Migraines

Just about anything can cause a migraine, including weather changes, strong odors, stress, loss of sleep, fluctuations in estrogen levels, and certain foods and drinks. Making a point of eating foods that control migraines while avoiding the foods that trigger them may reduce the number—and intensity—of headaches you get.

1. Fruits, Vegetables, and Legumes

Fruits, vegetables, and legumes all contain plant estrogens that blunt the negative effects of the estrogen our bodies naturally make. This may be particularly helpful for women who get migraines with their periods—which may be due to a sudden drop in estrogen. The reasoning goes, the higher your overall estrogen level is, to begin with, the farther it can fall during the drop. The fiber in these migraine fighting foods helps by removing excess estrogen from the body along with waste, so it’s not recycled back into your bloodstream.

Another major plus of these foods: They’re low in fat. When you eat less fat, your body makes less estrogen!

Aim for: Getting the recommended 7 to 10 daily servings of fruit and vegetables.

2. Fatty Fish

You know it as heart-healthy fare, but salmon and other fatty fish (like mackerel, trout, and herring) just may help control migraines, too. These fish are rich sources of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA.

Some preliminary research on these anti-inflammatory compounds done at the University of Cincinnati showed that when they were taken in supplement form, they appeared to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines in some people over the course of six weeks.

Aim for: The University of Cincinnati study used capsules containing 300 mg of EPA and DHA and 700 mg of other oils. Four 125-gram servings of fatty fish a week would provide about the same amount of the beneficial fish oils used in the study.

3. Coffee

Although caffeine may trigger migraines in some people, when a migraine strikes, a few cups of coffee do help relieve the pain. Caffeine is so effective at helping to shrink swollen blood vessels in the brain, it’s one of the key ingredients (together with acetaminophen and aspirin) in over-the-counter migraine medicines.

Aim for: A cup or two when a migraine hits.

4. Ginger

Research shows that this warming spice contains some potent compounds that are similar to the ones in non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. It may work against migraines by blocking inflammatory substances called prostaglandins. Ginger hasn’t been rigorously tested for headache relief, but even if it doesn’t control migraines, it should help relieve nausea that often comes with them.

Aim for: There’s no recommended dose, but you might start using powdered or fresh ginger liberally in cooking or ordering dishes flavored with ginger when dining out. Or when a migraine strikes, mix in a few teaspoons of powdered ginger in a glass of water and drink it every few hours to help alleviate the pain. You can also suck on dried ginger candy!

5. Magnesium-Rich Foods

Whole grains, beans, and leafy dark green vegetables are all high in magnesium, which research shows is often deficient in people who get migraines. Low levels of magnesium are thought to make the brain extra sensitive to migraine triggers.

Aim for: The recommended daily amount of magnesium is 310 to 320 mg for women and 400 to 420 mg for men. Aim for 400 to 700 mg daily to help control migraines if you’re truly deficient. Roasted pumpkin seeds are among the richest sources of magnesium, with about 151 mg for every 30 grams. Brazil nuts (107 mg per 30 g) and almonds (78 mg per 30 g) are good sources too. You can also try halibut, which contains 91 mg in a 90-gram portion.

Article Source:

By PAMELA JOHNSON – https://www.readersdigest.ca/food/healthy-food/5-foods-control-migraines/

How to Save Your Laptop After a Spill

How to save a laptop computer after a spill:

1. Switch the laptop off.

Shut down the laptop. Pressing and holding the power button for five seconds is quickest. Remove the power cord, unplug any peripherals and remove the battery. The biggest danger at this time is the device shorting out.

2. Remove excess liquid from the laptop.

Blot up excess liquid with a soft lint-free cloth or paper towels. Do not use a wiping motion as that just spreads the liquid further.

3. Turn the laptop over.

With the laptop facing away from you, tilt it from side to side and from front to back in a gentle rocking motion to help the liquid to escape from all four sides.

4. Use compressed air to dry the laptop.

Make sure that you have removed all excess liquid. Then, if you have one, use a can of compressed air to help dry the laptop. Alternatively, use a hair dryer on its coolest setting: keep the dry moving all the time and hold it at least 20cm above the laptop.

5. Leave laptop to completely dry out.

Leave the laptop opened in an inverted “V” shape in a warm area, to completely dry out. Do not leave it in direct sunlight or on a radiator. Wait for 24 hours or longer, making sure the keyboard is completely dry, before reinstalling the battery and peripherals.

If you must replace your laptop keyboard:

Most laptop keyboards can be replaced by a technician, or you can purchase a new USB or wireless keyboard to use with the laptop.

 

Article Source:

https://www.readersdigest.ca/home-garden/home-improvement/how-save-your-laptop-after-spill/

11 Things to Do with Coat Hangers

Stop caulk-tube ooze

To prevent caulk from oozing from the tube once the job is done, cut a 7.5-centimetre piece of coat hanger wire; shape one end into a hook and insert the other, straight end into the tube. Now you can easily pull out the stopper as needed.

coat-hangers

Secure a soldering iron

Keeping a hot soldering iron from rolling away and burning something on your workbench is a real problem. To solve this, just twist a wire coat hanger into a holder for the iron to rest in. To make the holder, simply bend an ordinary coat hanger in half to form a large “V.” Then bend each half in half so that the entire piece is shaped like a “W.”

coat-hangers

Extend your reach

Can’t reach that utensil that has fallen behind the refrigerator or stove? Try straightening a wire coat hanger (except for the hook at the end), and use it to fish for the object.

coat-hangers

Make a giant bubble wand

Kids will love to make giant bubbles with a homemade bubble wand fashioned from a wire coat hanger. Shape the hanger into a hoop with a handle and dip it into a bucket filled with 1 part liquid dishwashing detergent in 2 parts water. Add a few drops of food colouring to make the bubbles more visible.

coat-hangers

Create arts and crafts

Make mobiles for the kids’ room using wire coat hangers; paint them in bright colours. Or use hangers to make wings and other accessories for costumes.

coat-hangers

Unclog toilets and vacuum cleaners

If your toilet is clogged by a foreign object, fish out the culprit with a straightened wire coat hanger. Use a straightened hanger to unclog a jammed vacuum cleaner hose.

Make a mini-greenhouse

To convert a window box into a mini-greenhouse, bend three or four lengths of coat hanger wire into U’s and place the ends into the soil. Punch small holes in a dry-cleaning bag and wrap it around the box before putting it back in the window.

Hang a plant

Wrap a straightened wire coat hanger around a 15- to 20-centimetre flowerpot, just below the lip; twist it back on itself to secure it, then hang.

Make plant markers

Need some waterproof marks for your outdoor plants? Cut up little signs from a milk jug or similar rigid but easy-to-cut plastic. Write the name of the plant with an indelible marker. Cut short stakes from wire hangers. Make two small slits in each marker and pass the wire stakes through the slits. Neither rain nor sprinkler will obscure your signs.

coat-hangers

Make a paint can holder

When you are up on a ladder painting your house, one hand is holding while the other is painting. How do you hold the paint can? Grab a pair of wire snips and cut the hook plus 2.5 centimeters of wire from a wire hanger. Use a pair of pliers to twist the hook and wire firmly around the handle of your paint can. Now you have a handy hanger.

coat-hangers

Light a hard-to-reach pilot light

The pilot light has gone out the way inside your stove or furnace. You’d rather not risk a burn by lighting a match and sticking your hand all the way in there. Instead, open up a wire hanger and tape the match to one end. Strike the match and use the hanger to reach the pilot.

Article Source:

https://www.readersdigest.ca/home-garden/tips/5-things-do-coat-hangers/

How to Get Your Kids to Brush and Floss

It’s a struggle familiar to many parents: getting children to brush their teeth and floss them, too. Here’s how to get them going.

When it comes to dental care, many children give the task the brush off. They just don’t brush and floss often enough, properly or willingly, say dentists. And parents can use improper tactics to get results. “Some get their kids to brush by bribing them with candy-completely counter-productive,” says Dr. Sarah Hulland, a Calgary pediatric dentist. Consider these strategies instead.

Start Brushing Early

Brushing and flossing should be a habit, not something you have to force kids to do. So start the habit early. Even before children have teeth, parents should wipe their gums, using a clean face cloth, gauze or a finger-worn brush. It lets children know that cleaning their mouth is part of a routine.

Show Them the Way

Before school age (even after for many kids) children likely aren’t brushing or flossing well, says Hulland: “They lack the consciousness and coordination to do a good job.” They’ll brush along the biting surface, for instance, but not where the teeth meet the gum. At this stage, parents need to brush their child’s teeth or do it with them (i.e. your hand over the child’s). The same with flossing, which should start as soon as there’s no space between the baby teeth. Another way to motivate them: Let children watch you brush and floss too (you can even do it at the same time) to remind them of its importance and the proper technique.

Set Goals

Use a chart to track your child’s brushing and flossing, and reward them for a good week or month. It’s a visible reminder of an expected task, provides a positive incentive and gives children a sense of responsibility, says Dr. Gary Elman, a Toronto dentist.

Make it Fun

Some accessories-toothbrushes with a favorite cartoon character or those play songs, power brushes, floss wands, fun flavored toothpaste can make caring for teeth less of a chore. Just ensure that the brush head is small enough to reach the corners of your child’s mouth.

Stay on Top

As kids get older and wash up by themselves, don’t just assume that they’ve developed good brushing and flossing habits. Check if their toothbrush is wet or if the toothpaste and floss are running lower. If not, try incentives again. Or if you really want to see results, jokes Dr. Hulland, offer to brush and floss their teeth just like when they were a toddler that will get any teen moving quickly.

Article Source:

https://www.readersdigest.ca/health/relationships/how-get-your-kids-brush-and-floss/

3 Reasons Your Kids Need More Free Play

The benefits of free play

Think that six-year-old jumping in puddles is wasting time that would be better spent practising piano? Not really, it turns out. Since the late 1970s, research has illustrated a relationship between play and a multitude of useful skills. Studies show that less-structured activities (playing with sand, dress-up or doodling, say) are linked to improved cognitive functions, such as literacy and problem-solving skills, in kids.

Although scheduled activities like piano lessons can provide valuable learning opportunities, parents and caregivers shouldn’t underestimate the power of free play. In 2014, Frontiers in Psychology reported that children who spent more time playing freely became better at setting and reaching goals than those who mainly engaged in structured activities, such as sports.

“Kids need unstructured time for cognitive, social and creative development,” says Dr. William Ammons, a clinical psychologist in Bowmanville, Ont., who works with young people. He explains that, when children are given a task to perform, they focus on a goal. Those who are given free rein must develop skills to test limits, make decisions and practise social skills. “Kids need time for quiet reflection and purposelessness, which isn’t about putting a ball in a net,” says Ammons.

kids-free-play

1. Free play helps kids build life skills

Children are playful by nature, so they don’t need a lot to get their imaginations going. Something as simple as a piece of fabric can lead to the invention of role-playing games that support psychological development. By learning to listen, take turns and share ideas, kids in free play are doing more than just pretending to be wizards or astronauts. Rather, they are experimenting with putting themselves in others’ shoes, thereby developing empathy and personal awareness that will serve them into their grown-up years. The experience can enrich their understanding of both the world and who they are.

Even parents who find their kids neglecting school work to mess around with games and toys should feel reassured. According to Ken Gardner, a psychologist and co-director of the Rocky Mountain Play Therapy Institute in Calgary, research increasingly shows that richer play opportunities go hand in hand with literary development. “By Grade 3, the ability to play is a better predictor of future academic success than current academic success is,” he says.

kids-free-play

2. Free play helps kids tap into emotions

Play can have mental-health benefits, too. At Rocky Mountain, therapists use play to help children work out problems and heal from trauma. Kids who might have trouble communicating their experiences with words can employ toys, art supplies, music and movement to express themselves instead. While most of what kids do is based in language, play helps them communicate in other ways.

“Through play, children can better understand and regulate their emotions,” Gardner says. “It is used in a self-healing way. Those who act out experiences gain a sense of control of their lives.”

It turns out free play is just as important to kids’ development as structured activities like piano lessons and organized sports. Here are three of the most significant benefits of unstructured play.

3. Free play builds healthy relationships

There’s value in ensuring kids have their own time to explore, but when caregivers are involved, the experience is even more powerful. Playing together makes children feel special and promotes bonding and communication.

Grown-ups should resist the urge to turn playtime into a school lesson, Gardner warns. “Instead, follow the child so you can be attuned and sensitive to [their needs] and strengthen your relationship.”

Is your child having difficulty making friends? Here are more ideas on how parents can help their kids’ social development.

Check out more expert parenting advice!

Explore Reader’s Digest Canada.

Article Source:

https://www.readersdigest.ca/health/relationships/why-your-kids-need-more-free-play/

Debunking Myths About Getting The Flu Shot {Plus A Giveaway!}

I often hear people justify not getting a flu shot by saying something like, “I got the shot and STILL got a nasty stomach bug”! The problem with that logic, of course, is that the 24 hour stomach bug that seems to go around each year is not the flu, and neither is the common cold. We definitely hear a lot of different myths when it comes to getting your flu shot and I thought I would take some time to squash a few of them right now!

Myth #1 – The flu vaccine gives you the flu.

FALSE. Flu vaccinations delivered via a needle are either made with an ‘inactivated’ flu virus that’s not infectious or with no flu virus at all.

Myth #2 – You don’t need to get the flu vaccine every year.

FALSE. Almost half of Canadians (46%) say they aren’t concerned about spreading the flu to others, and the same amount say they aren’t getting vaccinated this year. But pharmacists warn Canadians – “Don’t Miss Out!”. In order to best protect yourself from the flu you need to be vaccinated annually and Canadians can drop in to their local Shoppers Drug Mart any time of day no appointment necessary to get vaccinated this season. Furthermore, the CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine for just about everyone 6 months and older, even when the viruses the vaccine protects against have not changed from the previous season.

Myth #3 – You should wait until the height of flu season to get vaccinated so you’re protected for longer.

FALSE. While it’s never too late to get vaccinated, it’s best to receive your flu shot soon after it’s available, likely October. The antibodies delivered via the flu vaccine that protect you against infection take up to two weeks to take effect, and since the flu peaks between December to February it’s important to get vaccinated early so you don’t miss out on those March break plans!

Myth #4 – Pregnant women need to get consent from their doctor prior to receiving the flu vaccine.

FALSE. There is no recommendation for pregnant women to seek consent from their doctor prior to vaccination. However, there are some people who should seek their doctors’ advice prior to being vaccinated, including those who have a moderate to severe illness and patients with a history of Guillain-Barre Syndrome.

Those are just a few of the misconceptions associated with the flu shot but there are many more. If you have questions regarding the flu shot, your best course of action is to stop in to your local Shoppers Drug Mart and ask to speak to the pharmacist on duty. They will be able to bust any myths and calm any concerns you might have and give you your flu shot at the same time!.

Shoppers Drug Mart Giveaway!

Alright, for being such great readers and for considering Shoppers Drug Mart for your flu shot needs, I am giving away a Cold & Flu Prize Pack which includes a $100 gift card from Shoppers Drug Mart! This should get you through any sniffles you may come across during flu season and prevent you from having to reuse tissues… This giveaway is open to residents of Canada, excluding Quebec.

Disclosure: I was compensated for my participation in this program, which I am taking part in because I believe in the flu shot.

Article Source:

https://canadiandad.com/debunking-myths-about-getting-the-flu-shot-plus-a-giveaway/

How to furnish the perfect bedroom

Furnish The Perfect Bedroom

Your bedroom should be a place of solace; somewhere you enjoy spending time and can go to relax and unwind after the pressures of your day.  Are you starting a design from scratch?  Maybe you’re looking to redecorate to make your space more personal and more to your taste?  Whatever your reason, take a peek below at some of the things you’ll want to consider to make the design process easier and more fun!bedroom-furnish

1.Theme

Are you designing with a theme in mind?  Sometimes this can actually make the design process a little easier since it gives you a starting point.  It may even facilitate the “flow” that you want to achieve since you’re going to be able to immediately veto items that don’t fall into the theme of the room.  Your starting point after the theme is to choose a color palette that will bring the whole room together and display the general mood you’re trying to create.

bedroom-furnish

2.Decor and wall color

Your wall color should fit the theme if there is one, but make sure it suits your personality and decor too.  Think about the moods some colors impart and how they reflect the overall feeling you want from the room.  Yellow, for example, can add a zing to your room for happy mornings, but might make falling asleep more difficult.  If you’re crafty, try your hand at making some decor to personalize your space.  Add meaningful pictures that suit and add those little details that tie a room together and make it entirely yours.

bedroom-furnish

3.Plan ahead

Your design process will be far easier if you take the time to sketch out a plan of the room and the furniture placement within it.  You can do this with a simple pad of paper and pencil (it’s better to use something that you can erase instead of having to scrap the whole project for a simple mistake or change of mind), with a board and “blocks” for your furniture, or even with an online design tool.  Experiment with the placement and see what works best.  Remember to show a close approximate when it comes to size – if your real life bed will take up about 10% of your bedroom space, make sure your sketch reflects that.  You’ll get a more realistic view of what the final result will look like.

4.The basics

It goes without saying that every bedroom needs a bed, but what else do most rooms contain as standard furniture?  A bedside table (on either side if you’ve got anything bigger than a twin), table lamps and at least one dresser round out the must-have pieces.  Some rooms can accommodate more; a lingerie or jewellery chest, or an oval mirror & stand can make beautiful additions.

If you’re looking for furniture, let our professional and knowledgeable staff help guide you towards the pieces that will take your bedroom from good to great.  Over 85% of our furniture is top quality, Canadian made!

Article Source:

https://bedroomfurnitureandmattressgallery.com/blogs/news/how-to-furnish-the-perfect-bedroom/

What is Clothing Consignment

Clothing Consignment

If you’re looking to purge or freshen up your closet this year, a consignment shop can be a benefit to you as both a seller and a buyer. When you sell your clothes in a consignment shop, the shop is taking on the responsibility of selling your item to the public (usually for a predetermined time) for a fee or a percentage of the sale. In some shops, if the item doesn’t sell you take it home again and owe nothing. In other shops, you’ll pay a small fee for their time and energy. This benefits you in several ways; first and foremost, you can drop your clothing off and don’t have to deal with the hassle of making the sale. You don’t have to clear the space or put in the time for a garage sale or take pictures and post them on social media. It’s just a drop and wait.

The shop will have a good idea of what sells for what price range and will know how to price your items accordingly. The downside to this type of sale is that you won’t have full control over the sale price and since you have to give some of the money to the shop, you don’t get to keep all of the proceeds. Your items may also not sell as quickly as if they were sold on a post on social media or a weekend garage sale.

If you’re looking to freshen up your closet, a consignment shop can be a great place to find good quality used items cheap! They probably won’t be quite as cheap as, for example, the Salvation Army. However, the items are typically displayed just like any other clothing store so you won’t have to dig through piles to find the things you want. Usually, a consignment shop stocks only clothing that is in really good shape, so you’re not likely to get a nasty surprise when you get home and discover a hole or tear in the shirt you fell in love with.

Some shops only stock name-brand apparel, so if that’s important to you then you’ll want to hunt this type down. If you’re a parent, consignment shops can be a dream! You know how fast kids can outgrow or tire of items, so a consignment shop can be your ticket to making money from the things you’ve brought in, and a way to save money when replenishing junior’s closet.

Our attitudes about clothing are, in general, incredibly wasteful compared to what they were only a few decades ago. It used to be that clothes lasted not just a season, but (usually patched, hemmed and altered) through several bodies and until they simply couldn’t be worn anymore. Landfills are the recipients of millions of items of clothing, and most of it are serviceable items that could certainly have seen a new life in another closet. Savvy shoppers with an eye towards environmental responsibility will know the value of a good consignment shop in their neighbourhood!

Written by Smooth Air News – All information providing Extoggery. A leading Consignment clothing store in Toronto Ontario.

Article Source:

https://www.smoothair.ca/clothing/what-is-clothing-consignment/

MEDICINE – What Is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

TCM is a medical practice that has been around for thousands of years.  It uses acupuncture, herbal remedies, massage or tui na, and cupping, in combination with mind and body practices to maintain or achieve whole body health and longevity.

A TCM practitioner will determine the best course of action for the patient through various means; observation, listening, questioning and pulse and palpitation.

    1. Observation : This first step is accomplished by observing the patient for any outward signs of deteriorating health.  Since our inner and outer body is directly connected, at times signs of a specific failing organ can be detected by outward signs.  Skin pallor, facial sensory organs, and the tongue are all affected when something isn’t quite right on the inside.
    2. Listening: In this step, the practitioner listens for any clues towards a diagnosis.
    3. Questioning: In this step, the doctor questions the patient to see if there has been a change in behaviour or what symptoms the patient displays.
      • Acupuncture; if you suffer from pain this is a wonderful and non surgical way to alleviate it with the use of very fine needles.
      • Herb formulas; the use of herbs in medicine is a long standing tradition, and it has taken generations to perfect.  We have options of pill, tea or raw form depending on your preference.
      • Cupping; removes toxins and acids from old, sluggish blood and lubricates the tissues with fresh, better circulating blood.
      • Gua Sha: a method of increasing circulation and removing toxins by opening up the superficial layers of the skin by  applying repeated strokes with a smooth edged tool.Pulse and Palpitation: In good health, your pulse will be frequent, steady and of the proper intensity.  In bad health, this changes and the doctor will check for a weak, interrupted, or unsteady pulse.
        traditional-chinese-medicine

      Determining what’s wrong with the patient is half the battle, but in Traditional Chinese Medicine the doctor is well equipped to handle the task of restoring good health.  Since in this practice the belief is that all of the components of our bodies are interconnected, a practitioner will strive to not only alleviate pain, but also, increase health for the entire body.  At Needle Nurse Acupuncture & Herbal Clinic, there are a variety of techniques to help patients achieve better health.

Contact us today so that we can help you get on the road to good health!

Article Source:

https://www.needlenurse.ca/what-is-traditional-chinese-medicine–tcm–.html/

Baby brain scans could predict autism before age 2

The latest study is the first to show that it’s possible to detect autism in babies.

Brain scans can be used to help detect autism in high-risk babies long before any symptoms emerge, according to a new U.S. study that could mark a “giant step forward” in autism research, scientists say.

Scientists used magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, to study the brains of more than 100 infants who have older siblings with autism. Researchers were able to predict 80 per cent of the infants who went on to meet the criteria for autism at two years of age, according to a new study published in Nature.

The study is the first to show that it’s possible to detect autism in babies. Typically, the earliest an autism diagnosis can be made is around age two, when children start showing symptoms that include difficulty making eye contact and not responding to familiar voices.

Dr. Joseph Piven, a senior author of the study and a professor at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, said the goal is to use early autism detection to improve existing therapies for children.

“There is a general belief that earlier is better, in terms of treatment,” he told CTV News. “And if we can treat before the symptoms appear and before the brain changes even happen, then that’s most likely to have the biggest impact.”

Among the general population, autism occurs in about 1 in 100 children, researchers say. But they say that infants who have an older sibling with autism have about a 1 in 5 chance of developing the disorder.

Dr. Piven, who is also the director of the Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, and his colleagues conducted MRI scans of high-risk infants’ brains at six, 12 and 24 months of age.

Fifteen of those babies were diagnosed with autism at 24 months. The MRI scans showed that their brains grew faster between 12 and 24 months of age, compared to babies who were not diagnosed with autism. Researchers also detected brain changes between six and 12 months.

That increased rate of growth was linked to the emergence of autism symptoms, Dr. Piven said.

He called the latest study “optimistic,” saying it could represent a “giant step forward” in autism research.

Researchers also say that larger studies are needed to confirm the accuracy of autism prediction using MRIs.

Article Source:

By Sonja Puzic, CTVNews.ca – https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/baby-brain-scans-could-predict-autism-before-age-2-study-1.3288363/

Canadians wait longer to see doctor than international average

Canadians wait longer to see a doctor than in other countries

Canadians wait longer for health care than people in many other countries, but are generally more satisfied with their experience once they are seen, according to a new report.

The Canadian Institute for Health Information‘s report released Thursday is titled “How Canada Compares,” and based on results from the Commonwealth Fund’s 2016 survey of adults in 11 countries.

Canadians continue to report longer wait times for doctors, specialists and emergency department visits than their peers in other countries, the authors said. Once they do go get medical care, Canadians are often pleased with its quality.

The other countries in the report are the United States, Germany, Norway, the Netherlands, Sweden, New Zealand, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Australia and France.

Less than half (43 per cent) of Canadians could get a same- or next-day appointment with their family doctors or at their regular place of care the last time they needed medical attention, researchers found. The highest were in New Zealand (76 per cent) and the Netherlands (77 per cent). The international average was 57 per cent.

The trend for same- or next-day appointments in Canada dropped from 42 per cent in 2010 to 38 per cent in 2013.

Canadians are also more frequent users of services such as emergency departments, drugs and doctors than in most other countries included.

Part of the issue may be because of a gap in access to electronic records in Canada compared with other Commonwealth Fund countries, said Tracy Johnson, director, health system analysis and emerging issues with CIHI in Toronto.

For instance, it might help if more patients were able to email their doctors a question and get an answer back about whether it can wait a couple of days or needs to be addressed immediately.

“If patients could access their lab results in an electronic format or they could access through email questions to their family doc, then it may help solve some of the flow-through problems we have to ED or the perception that they’re not getting access quickly enough,” Johnson said.

Hard to wait

Dr. Joshua Tepper, a Toronto family physician who wasn’t involved in the report, would also like to see more e-referrals and e-consultations that link back into a patient’s electronic health record.

The, president and CEO of Health Quality Ontario also sees ways to improve how care is organized, such as through centralized intake and assessments to streamline appointments with care teams for areas such as hip and knee replacements or back pain.

“Waiting can feel long for very good reason,” said Tepper. “It is hard to wait, especially around your health, especially if you’re worried about certain diagnosis, if you’re in pain.”

In the report, low-income Canadians said they had greater cost barriers to accessing care in general, an inequity Tepper called striking.

Waits to see family doctor

For instance, one in 10 Canadians didn’t fill a prescription or skipped a dose because of cost, according to the report. About 58 per cent of Canadians reported using one or more prescription drugs, compared with the international average of 52 per cent.

About one in four people 18 and older in this country reported skipping a dental visit because of the cost compared with one in five elsewhere.

Just over a third, 34 per cent, of Canadians said they could get care on evenings or weekend without going to an emergency department. But after-hours was closer to the international average of 43 per cent in Ontario and Alberta.

Tepper noted the report is based on averages from self-reported data. There are areas of the country that offer models of excellence, but they aren’t the norm.

Canadians also reported the longest wait times for specialists, with 56 per cent waiting longer than four weeks to see a specialist, compared with the international average of 36 per cent.

Same day appointments

Excellent quality of care

Canada’s health-care system scored better on meeting the needs of individual patients. This included saying their regular doctor knew their medical history, involved them in decisions and explained things in a way that’s easy to understand.

What’s more, 74 per cent of respondents in Canada rated the quality of care from their regular provider as excellent or very good, compared with the 11-country average of 65 per cent.

The Commonwealth Fund describes itself as a private U.S. foundation that aims to promote a high-functioning health-care system. The CIHI is an independent, non-profit organization that provides information on Canadians’ health systems and the health of Canadians.

Article Source:

https://www.cbc.ca/news/health/wait-times-cihi-commonwealth-1.3984920/

Discussing Challenging News Stories With Kids

Reading news

Kids are surrounded by news that is often scary-sounding. They see headlines, overhear snippets on the radio and TV and hear about news events from other kids.

Very often articles are scary for kids because news produced for adults typically leaves out information that may be reassuring because it is “understood.”

Adults tend to already know that information so it’s often not included in the news article. Kids, however, need to be reassured.

The ubiquity of the news is one of the reasons we started TeachingKidsNews.com (TKN).

Our goal is to bring the news to kids, but make it safe and kid-friendly.

Although TKN does sometimes cover non-violent but challenging stories (such as natural disasters), it is our policy not to cover “scary” stories—particularly ones involving violent crime.

That’s because we at TKN are not physically in front of the reader, who will certainly have questions that should be answered in person by a trusted adult.

For parents and teachers who are discussing challenging stories with students face-to-face, here are some suggestions:

• “Back in” to a difficult news story. Start with background information, or even an anecdote, and lead up to the more challenging aspects.

• Present challenging information briefly and factually, without embellishment.

• Reassure kids by pointing out when an event is (if it’s truly the case):

-rare (ie, seldom happens or has never happened before and isn’t likely to happen again); or

-not likely to happen again because the government (for example) has made changes to prevent it from occurring again.

• Look for the hopeful angle. What good is coming out of this situation? Start with that.

• Point out the helpers. With the Japanese tsunami story on TKN, we talked about the doctors and nurses who were helping to rebuild.

• Talk about the future. When High Park’s children’s castle was destroyed by a fire, we looked to its rebuild by community volunteers who added new features to make it more interesting and more accessible to kids with physical challenges.

Parents and teachers, of course, will know their children and students best and make their own decisions about what is appropriate for them.

With face-to-face conversations about the news, it often comes down to listening to the child, picking up on their cues, and asking them what they already know or want to know.

Article Source:

https://teachingkidsnews.com/discussing-challenging-news-stories-with-kids/

Don’t Give Up On Your Dream Of Education

 

Special Education Program

In high school, I was placed in a special education program instead of regular classes because I couldn’t learn like the other students. I felt I was being “left on the shelf” — not important enough to be given the opportunity to learn to my potential. I felt like a yo-yo, bounced between special education and “regular” classes. I was not being challenged in ways that would enrich my learning. To make things worse, I was bullied. Throughout my years at school I didn’t feel safe, or even that I belonged. I would come home in tears, reluctant to go back to school each day. My experience made me question my ability to learn, and I felt stupid.

During this time I would often sit at a nearby lake where I could be alone with nature. As I got to know myself in that place of silence, I came to the realization that I would have to stand up and be strong for myself. It took a long time for me to build confidence in myself and realize my true potential. I was someone who could learn. Everyone has different learning styles, and I was able to recognize the difference in my learning from others in my class.

As I began to speak up against the bullying, other students would share their experiences of bullying with me. I encouraged them to continue in their classes, which gave them courage to stand up to their bullies. In this way, learning and sharing was empowering.

A hard lesson came when I was told by a college admissions officer that I did not meet their entrance requirements. I was demoralized but my mother told me that I was able to learn no matter what others thought and she encouraged me to continue studying. It was then that I entered the Street Haven Learning Centre (SHLC), and spoke to the program manager who listened to my concerns, and believed in me and my ability to learn.

I registered for their literacy program, which would help me upgrade my skills in preparation for college. At the Learning Centre, the instructor and staff were caring and encouraged my goal to study at college. Classes at Street Haven were fun, and I discovered for the first time that I was good at reading and math. More importantly, the experience reinforced my previous discovery — that I am capable of learning.

My time taking classes there helped me to better understand the unique way I learn. I felt blessed to be at the Street Haven Learning Centre, where I was a member of the class, feeling safe, surrounded by those who accepted and encouraged me.

I enjoyed learning at the SHLC, spending three years there. Community involvement and activism was an important part of my life throughout this time. I was a committed member of an organization dedicated to improving the lives and working conditions of people in low-wage and unstable employment, participating in campaigns, outreach, and awareness work.

My comrades there were a source of support and encouraged me to apply to college. Determined to pursue this goal, I enrolled in as many learning programs as I could, including other community classes and free online courses.

These experiences were valuable and helped me to explore my interests in community work and to prepare for college. It was not always easy, as there were people around me who told me to find work instead of applying to college. Always determined, I knew college education was my path. There came a point when I was ready: I knew I had developed the skills to re-apply. Through the support and guidance of my counsellor and my instructors, I re-applied, and was finally accepted into Transition to Post-Secondary Education program at George Brown College.

I am currently in my fourth semester at George Brown College, have been on the Dean’s List twice, and just won a third scholarship to continue in my studies for the next year. I feel motivated and engaged every time I attend class. At this point in my life, I feel good, knowing that I have achieved my dream of studying at college. Developing strength and determination to become an advocate for others has directed my college studies.

I am now preparing for entrance into the Community Service Worker program, a step on the route to my goals to become a support for others in the community. I am proud of myself for not letting the barriers I faced in high school hold me back, and for persevering to get to where I am now. The lesson I learned from overcoming the barriers I faced was that you cannot give up hope, as there is always something greater for you if you persevere.

Article Source:

By Street Haven – https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/street-haven/dream-of-education_b_14055022.html/

Should Teachers Bring Their Politics Into The Classroom?

 

Teachers & Students

Among the groups that I saw at the Toronto march was a contingent of elementary school teachers. As most people know, the great majority of elementary school teachers everywhere are women. As women, they have experienced more than their fair share of discrimination, pay inequity, and even violence in the workplace. Do teachers deserve better? Without question.

But should teachers have the right to protest and then to bring their views and opinions into their classrooms? It might depend on the views and how they are expressed.

Kids around the world have either participated in or have seen news about the protest marches that followed the inauguration of President of the U.S., Donald J. Trump. With any luck, they will be asking questions. How should teachers respond to such questions as, “Where you at the march?” and “Why or why not?”

Teachers, please tell your students the truth. If you attended the march, you can use this as a wonderful opportunity to tell your students about democracy. Wherever you were, someone was calling out “THIS is what democracy looks like.” Why? Because democracy depends upon free expression and dissent. It is a patriotic act to stand up to authority and speak the truth.

Teachers who have the courage of their convictions are at the forefront of those who can now act. They can find out what their students think, and they can encourage their students to organize and act in creative and lawful ways to get their ideas across to others. And no, students do not need to agree with their teacher’s views to learn this.

If a teacher was not a participant, she should be free to tell her students her reasons, or to keep those reasons to herself. She may have had personal reasons that she does not wish to share. That is not a problem. She has the right to privacy. However, to say that she disagrees with a political position is also a way of letting students know about freedom of expression and democracy.

If she disagrees with the dissent, if she agrees with the positions taken by the U.S. President and his administration, she should be free to tell her students her views. However, she should not be free to demand that they agree with her views nor to disseminate “alternative facts.”

It is a teacher’s responsibility to teach their students to be literate. This includes language, numeric, media, and citizenship literacy. Today, perhaps more than ever before, our teachers must be free to engage their students in examining what they think, what they know and how they know it. We need the next generation to challenge inequities and iniquities wherever they find them. How else will democracy survive?

Article Source:

Danielle S. McLaughlin – Director of Education Emerita, Canadian Civil Liberties Association – https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/danielle-s-mclaughlin/womens-march-teachers_b_14350148.html/

Smart Home – Automation Control for your Home

Automation Control

Audio Excellence has been designing and installing Smart Home projects since 1994, almost 23 years! We’ve done projects for both Commercial and Residential clients. Over the years, control systems have become a lot more sophisticated. You can now control lighting in any or all rooms, lower or raise the shades, play different music in different rooms at different volumes, adjust the temperature, monitor the security cameras, and so much more, all from your phone or iPad. Here is a simple introduction to the wonderful world of Smart Homes:

First, determine what features you would like to have. As mentioned above, some of the more common include:

  • Motorized Shades; perfect for the big windows which let in the beautiful light, but heats up/cools the room too much.

  • Lighting control. Buttons are created for different pre-set scenes. Touch “HOME” and the areas that you want lights to turn on, at the intensity you like, are automatically set. Similarly, “AWAY” would turn all lights off except for the light in the main hallway and the mudroom, both at low levels. “VACATION” would randomly turn lights on and off. “PARTY” would turn all lights on, with different intensities to highlight the food, art and décor. These pre-set scenes are easily accessible from in-wall controls or your phone/iPad.

  • Security Cameras. Install cameras around the perimeter of your home, pool/hot tub and doors/entry ways. Easily monitor anywhere you have wifi or internet access.

  • Climate Control.

  • Music. Play different music in different rooms. You can choose from your music collection or from music services like Spotify/Tidal. Speakers can be installed so they are unobtrusive or even invisible!

  • Create a rugged network for your internet and gaming.Some of the manufacturers we work with include Crestron and Savant Home Automation, Lutron Lighting, NEST Climate control systems, Klipsch, KEF and Stealth invisible speakers, as well as many manufacturers of motorized blinds.

Second, call us and we can meet with your architect, builder and interior designer to help plan and design the best solution for your needs. Always contact us as soon as possible so there is enough time to properly plan and coordinate. 

Audio Excellence also is a distributor of:  Powered Speakers ,  Turntables , Stereo Amplifiers and Home Theatre installation.

 Article Source:

By Adrian Low – https://www.audioexcellence.ca/single-post/2017/01/18/Smart-Home-%E2%80%93-Automation-and-Control-for-your-Home/

Dining Room Table – How to choose the right dining room table?

Dining Room Table

So you’re trying to choose a dining room table and realizing that you’re overwhelmed with choices? Any furniture decisions can lead to a dizzying array of pieces to pick from, but in most houses the dining room table does tend to take center stage. It’s where you’ll enjoy family meals and is usually the centre piece of any holiday. It’s no wonder that you want to get it just right! Depending on the specific function of your table and your lifestyle in general, there are a few important points to consider.

Size

Kind of a no brainer, but you’d be surprised at how many people fall in love with a particular table and just assume it’ll fit because of their attachment to it. It’s a great idea to not only measure the floor space you’ve got available, but to also consider other elements in your home that you don’t want to block. The table might fit in the space allocated, but what about your seating? It’s pretty inconvenient to have to eat with your chest mashed into a table to avoid pressing against the chesterfield behind you! The size of the table isn’t the only piece to the “does it fit” puzzle, so consider all of the combined elements.

Type

Rectangle, square, circle, octagon…the choices are pretty endless as to the shape you’d like to have. If you’re not limited by space in your home, then consider the utility of the table and your family size to help make this choice. If you have a family that enjoys hosting dinners, you’ll want to consider how many people can comfortably sit around your table. Since a number of tables come with sliders and inserts, it may be that your family of 4 can sit regularly at a smaller table and just pop the inserts in when company is coming. Also, you must consider the utility of your table when it comes to the every day use. If junior is a bit clumsy, a sharp cornered glass table might not be in the cards for you just yet.

Style

Look at the style elements and colours in the rest of your home. A farmhouse practically cries out for a long, rectangle shaped wood table and often matching wood benches finish off the look. A more modern home might call for a glass or even metallic finish on a table, shying away from the more traditional wood style. Do you want your table to pop? In a neutral room, a brightly coloured table can certainly stand out. If you’re not sure and don’t want to commit to something that you may tire of, go with a more neutral coloured table and take the opportunity to dress it up with fun table cloths or a runner. Whatever your style, take some clues from the rest of the house and consider how your table choice will tie in with them.

Reference

If you want to learn more about how to choose the right table, read more about it on our article called Guess who’s coming to dinner. If you want to see more examples of our dining tables, visit our dining room table page. Or, need something like a sofa bed? Visit Barrymore Furniture store gallery for more information.

Article Source:

By Breeze – https://barrymorefurniture.com/blog/how-to-choose-the-right-dining-room-table/

Skin – Why our skin wrinkles with age and how to slow this process?

Wrinkle Skin

It’s something that we’ve been fighting for centuries; slowing or even reversing the ageing process, especially when it comes to our skins. Why do we get wrinkles in the first place? Well, as we age our skin becomes less able to protect itself because it begins to thin. It also starts to dry out and becomes far less elastic than before. This is a natural process and everyone will eventually be sporting their fair share of wrinkles. The sun does more damage as our skin becomes more vulnerable, and this is when negative lifestyle choices tend to rear their ugly heads.

Natural ageing process

If you smoke you’re not doing your skin any favours; constantly pursing your lips eventually leads to wrinkles around your mouth, not to mention the fact that the chemicals in your cigarettes restrict blood flow, making it hard for your skin to get the oxygen and nutrients it needs. If you sleep on your stomach, pressing your face into your mattress or pillow will take its toll and show up as wrinkles (or even as acne). A high sugar diet can also cause wrinkles, as the sugar molecules attack collagen and elastic; both of which keep your skin smooth and supple. If you’re not wearing sunscreen then you’re leaving your skin open to damaging UV rays, and will wrinkle sooner and more aggressively than your sun block worshipping friends.

aging

So what can a person do? How do we slow the process? There are a variety of ways you can help your skin to maintain a youthful appearance. If you’re a smoker, it’s never too late to kick the habit. There are numerous products on the market today to facilitate a less “cold turkey” method. Eat a healthy diet. Our fruits and veggies go a long way towards helping our skins and you’ll do your entire body a good turn by going heavy on the broccoli and not bringing temptations into your house. Use sun block or wear protective clothing when you know you’ll be spending a long day in the sun. Hats and UV-guard rash guards are a great way to stay cool and give your skin the protective layer it needs.

Treatment

A wonderful and popular way to help lessen the signs of wrinkles and ageing is an array of spa treatments. From Micro-dermabrasion to Chemical peels, these processes offer a wide variety of benefits including leaving you with a fresh, more youthful appearance after sloughing off old, dry layers of skin. Try a Micro-needling (also known as Collagen Induction Therapy) for a minimally invasive facial rejuvenation, or, if you’re looking for something completely non-invasive, try a Micro-current face lift (non surgical) or a Radio frequency face lift (also non surgical)! We can ensure a pleasant and productive treatment that will leave you feeling as if the years have dropped away. Join our many happy clients who have already experienced the joy of slowing the ageing process!

chemical-peel

Article Source:

European Beauty – https://europeanbeautytoronto.com/skin-wrinkles-age-slow-process/

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