Denise Tharalson's
Denise Tharalson Office: 480-829-3460 Cell: 602-403-7332 www.americasells.com
Dear Friends,
Summer is officially in full swing! Swimsuit season in here so it's time to heat up your workout. After you finish working up a sweat be sure to bust out the sunblock and beach towels, round up the kids and head out for some fun under the summer sun! Just don't forget to check out our essential summer guides first! This month in Welcome Home magazine get the 411 on how to dress you garden for summer! Confused about what types of fountains are out there? Or just worried about how to style your patio for summer? End the confusion with our fantastic fountain picking tips and garden style how to helper! And last but not least, unlock the secret to looking and feeling great at the beach. From picking the perfect swim wear to how to present your best beach going self, our guide has it all! Please enjoy this issue of the magazine! Have a totally tubular June, and as always, Welcome Home!
Denise Tharalson www.americasells.com 480-829-3460 602-403-7332
Welcome Home! Table of Contents 4
Recipe And Design A tasty recipe and a stylish home design how to.
5 A
Hammock Of Your Own Choose the perfect fit for your ultimate relaxation.
Famous Fitness Options What’s the most popular way to slim down, find out here! 6-7
Choosing The Right Surfboard
8 - 11
A hand guide to help you find your perfect wave catcher.
12 - 14 His and Hers Guide To Looking Good At The Beach Knowing you're more Baywatch than crime watch you can lie back and relax!
15
How To Choose The Right Fitness Clothes For Your Workout. How to get fit and be stylish at the same time.
16 - 17 Creating A Hot Summer Garden People are not the only ones that need a little shaping up for summer!
18 - 19
Five Fantastic Tips For Buying A Fountain Pick the perfect fountain for your garden type.
20 - 21 Products To Love! Hot trends, technological wonders of tomorrow and so much more!
22 City Spotlight Phoenix, AZ. Historic fun in the sun, what more could you want? 23 Businesses That Make A Difference Walmart, Making saving easy and a better life possible for everyone.
Welcome Home is for entertainment purposes only. This magazine is not intended to solicit other brokersʼ listings. If you are currently working with another broker, please disregard this information. All pictures courtesy of sxc.hu unless otherwise noted. Thanks to Wikipedia for Random Fact information and aid.
Editor in Chief - Phly Jambor The information provided in this publication of Welcome Home or on any website maintained by U.S. Cybertek, Inc. or any of its subsidiaries, divisions, affiliates, agents, representatives, licensors, licensees or employees (collectively Publisher) is intended as a general guide illustrating common methods of common practices, and the publisher makes no warranty or guarantee whatsoever of the safety, effectiveness, or other characteristic of any methods or products described herein. Neither does the Publisher assume any liability for information published in any website or other publication to which reference may be made herein. Readers are cautioned to review and comply with all written instructions, safety bulletins, and other materials provided in connection with any of the products mentioned herein and all products used in connection with any of the methods described. Neither Published nor any of its subsidiaries, divisions, affiliates, agents, representatives, licensors, licensees or employees shall in any case be liable to you or anyone else for any loss or injury or any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, special punitive or similar damages arising out of your use of or failure to use any of the methods and/ or products described in this publication or any other publication or websites to which reference may be made herein. Publisher disclaims all warranties, and any warranty or guarantee of safety, merchantability, or fitness for any particular purpose lies solely with the manufacture(s) of any product described or recommended or used used in connection with any methods described or recommended.
Recipe and Design Eco-Cozy Pillows
Tomato-Feta Salad
If you make this salad a day ahead, add 1 extra chopped tomato just before serving. Oil-cured ripe black olives are sold on the pickle aisle.
Custom-made nature-theme pillows lend your bed a designer look, minus the spendy price tag.
Ingredients • • • • • •
1 (4-ounce) package feta cheese 1/4 cup Greek dressing 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley 6 plum tomatoes, chopped 1/2 cup sliced oil-cured ripe black olives 1/4 cup chopped red onion
Preparation: 1. 2.
Break feta cheese into small pieces. Do not crumble. Stir together dressing and parsley. Stir in feta and remaining ingredients. Cover and chill at least 1 hour or up to 2 days. Serve with a slotted spoon. 3. Tomato-Feta Lettuce Salad: Tear 1 small head iceberg lettuce and 1 small head romaine lettuce into bite-size pieces; toss together. Arrange lettuces evenly on 4 individual plates, and top evenly with chilled tomato mixture (do not use slotted spoon). Serve immediately. 4. Note: We used Ken's Steak House Greek dressing. Dolores Vaccaro, Pueblo, Colorado, Southern Living SEPTEMBER 2005
What You Need: • • • •
Cotton Pillow Case Iron-On Transfer Paper Iron and Ironing Board Scissors
Instructions: 1. Cut It Out. Print your image on iron-on transfer paper
and let dry. You may need to tile the photo using several sheets for larger images. 2. Iron On. Trim the printout to size and lay it facedown
on a cotton pillowcase. Iron, pressing down hard and moving the iron constantly. Do not use steam. 3. Peek-A-Boo. Lift a corner to see if the image has transferred. Once it does, peel off the backing. For tiled images, protect the finished portions from excess heat with a used piece of transfer paper.
Courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens.com
A Hammock Of Your Own It's been a long day--work, kids, responsibilities. It's time to take a break. Gather up something to read and a cool drink, kick off your shoes, and slip into a hammock. Let yourself relax into a unique experience. Why unique? Because a hammock is the perfect place for daydreaming. Hammocks have been around so long in so many cultures, that they not only provide some of the most comfortable seating you'll find, but they'll also open up the world to your imagination. You may be using a camping hammock in your backyard, but it could just as easily be strung between two trees in the outback of Australia, surrounded by herds of kangaroos. Your matrimonial hammock, big enough for two people, might be out on the back deck, but in your dreams you're sharing it with your sweetie on a wild island beach, enjoying the sunset over the South Pacific along with your favorite drinks. Do you have a rope hammock set up on your front porch? Then you can close your eyes and just picture yourself in the crew quarters of a tall ship on the high seas, stormtossed and ready to give chase to some pirates! Or maybe you're relaxing on the back porch in a hand-made Mayan hammock from the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, but in your dreams you're exploring the furthest reaches of the world, discovering the ruins of ancient civilizations. Bright striped hammocks in sun-resistant materials are great for imagining yourself in that perfect vacation home
right out of Sunset Magazine, even if yours is set up on a hammock stand in your living room surrounded by piles of the kids' favorite toys. Or maybe you'll imagine getting a family sized hammock big enough so that you and the kids can go on wild adventures of the imagination as you cuddle together for some great family time! Pure comfort can accompany you on your backyard adventures if you've got a quilted hammock. Pillows and a throw or two will make you feel you're on a luxury cruise in the mid-Atlantic, although your hammock stand is firmly planted on the lawn! (Add a water bottle holder for real convenience.) Chair hammocks are a world of their own. They come in styles ranging from free form rope for lounging to firm support and arm rests for upright sitting--yet they still give you that wonderful feel of being safely and comfortably supported in mid-air. Like all hammocks, they're perfect for reading, too. You can even get magazine and book holder accessories for your hammocks, to keep your reading matter handily available while you relax and dream of great adventures. Come to think of it, why not take a portable hammock and set off on a real life adventure, if only to the nearest park or beach? These come with convenient carrying cases to make getting to your destination simple and easy--but watch out for pirates! Written by Stanley Rogoff. Courtesy of Articlesbase.com.
Famous Fitness Options As life accelerates, people are feeling an intense need to get into regular exercise programs and workouts to keep fit. Those who do so willingly enjoy innumerable benefits. Those not so willing often have to adopt it as a treatment to fix what later ails them. Â People really want more from their lives today know the benefit of regular exercise. They are signing up for regular exercise programs. As we know that necessity is the mother of invention, and many new avenues of different exercise programs and fitness classes have become popular as people seek to improve their health. The fitness programs that most of the gyms are offering today are: Yoga - This is a whole body fitness regime from ancient India. It was created thousands of years ago by the sages to keep physical as well as mental fitness maintained and improving. It includes various postures and breathing techniques to calm the body. This is also a step to increase connection with spiritual aspects of the self. Pilates Classes - This is similar to Yoga in its approach to fitness. They help you improve body posture; strengthen core muscles and work to strengthen overall the body. The main emphasis is given on strengthening muscles and body balancing. Weight Loss - As obesity is growing, more and more people are aware of weight loss benefits. Gyms are offering many weight loss exercise programs on demand. This helps to reduce weight and helps a return to healthy living. These programs may include cardio exercise, fat and calorie burning exercise, body toning exercises and workouts for strengthening muscles.
Body Toning Programs - These help you achieve a flat and firm stomach, buttocks, thighs, and toned muscles. These exercises are generally done lying on a mat and work well. Tai-Chi and Karate Programs - Earlier these were considered for self-defense only, but now they are important workouts to strengthen muscles and tone-up your body. They offer exercise through the dynamic of physical combat that serves both the body and mind. Swimming - This has been a great way of gaining health for ages. This is a whole body exercise which strengthens your body and is a lot of fun in the water. Every one enjoys swimming, and its good for every one of all ages. This is often helpful for people suffering from back pain or arthritis. Cycling - This is also a good exercise for those who cannot take up heavy exercise. It allows you to maintain the level of speed and effort thats right for your own pace. This firms up muscles in legs and improves heart and lung functionality, a great fitness program for all, especially for ladies, and elders. Fitness programs for seniors - There are many special fitness programs for seniors. They can include cardio, aerobic, dance, swimming, cycling, and many more activities. These programs are designed in consideration of common complications that seniors or elderly people may face. Â You should consult your gym administrator before taking up any exercise program. You should discuss any health issues with him/her in detail before signing up for a program. Written by Fitness Courses. Courtesy of Articlesbase.com
Choosing The Right Surfboard
Ok, so you're committed, right? Ready to hit the surf? Now you just need to figure out one minor little detail‌.picking the right surfboard to learn how to surf! (ok, maybe not so minor) after all picking the right surfboard could make or break how you feel about surfing in general and possibly affect your enthusiasm to continue past the struggle of learning. If you're a beginner, you want a no
frills board that is extremely easy to stand on, trust me! Although, skipping along the sand holding a paper light and potato-chip thin board underneath your arm may feel ‘cooler' than lugging around that beat up old tanker of a board that seems more like a battleship than a sleek surfing vessel….who cares! You need a board that floats and that's about it…for now! So forget about picking out that stylish ‘fish' or brand new ‘thruster' (if you don't know what I'm talking about don't worry, a ‘surfing defined' section will come later). The best choice for a beginning surfer is to pick out an inexpensive used board, ideally a ‘longboard' that stands at least 3 ft taller than you. I.E. If you're six foot tall, pick out a 9'0" or longer. The bigger the better! The width is important as well. Try to find a board at least 20" wide or more. You're best bet for finding affordable used longboards for sale is online at craigslist. Or you can try your local surf shop. Just remember to start with something inexpensive to learn on. You can always upgrade once you get the hang of things. Here are four things to look out for when shopping for a used surfboard: 1) Check for Dings: the most obvious are cracks or open holes in the board, but be aware of yellow or otherwise discolored areas that may be absorbing water. If you spot any spider cracks, place your lips over the area and suck (if saltwater is present then you have found a ding that needs to be fixed). If you spot duct tape, find out what's underneath.
a banana you'd be pretty safe dropping into the steepest of waves. Rocker not only makes a board easier to ride but also provides more maneuverability. However, the drawback of having too much rocker is a reduction in speed. Usually, the less rocker the faster it goes (surfboard shapers are constantly trying to adjust their designs to find the perfect balance of rocker – more for maneuverability, less for speed). An easy way to compare a surfboard's rocker is to turn it on its side (rail facing up towards ceiling). Although the banana example is extreme, a surfboard should have a fair amount of curve from the nose to the tail. This will help make it easier to ride, albeit at probably unnoticeably slower speed. 4) They're called skegs, but we call them fins: It may seem obvious, but make sure the surfboard you are thinking about buying has skegs. These are the fin shaped parts on the bottom of the board. If you're a beginner than you most likely want a longboard with at least one large center skeg, although 3 skegs (a thruster) is ideal. The bigger the center skeg, the more stable the board will be. Note: If you're buying your first surfboard to learn to surf, don't worry so much about the looks. Just make sure the surfboard is water tight and will float you well. Its kind of like learning to drive… start with the station wagon, the Ferrari will come later. Don't let your surfboard get beat up at home or in the garage. Keep your surfboard protected and out of the way with a surfboard storage rack.
2) De-lamination: this occurs when the fiberglass separates from the foam core underneath. Once a board is delaminated, its basically one step away from being surfgod sacrifice material (in other words, its toast!). Run your fingers over the surface of the surfboard taking notice of any bubbles or areas that feel ‘soft'. For shorter boards, an easy way to spot de-lamination is to stand a board straight up and grab the nose (top). Using your forearms for leverage, press down towards the floor as if trying to bend the board in the middle. This will expose any potential de-lamination areas (usually where the feet are placed). 3) Rocker: If you're a beginning surfer you're going to want a surfboard with a fair amount of rocker to prevent you from pearling (nose diving). Rocker is defined as the amount of curve on the bottom of a surfboard. Picture a banana- if the contour of your surfboard matched that of Written by Michael Russel. Courtesy of Articlesbase.com
His and Hers A Guide to Looking Good on the Beach
No, it's not an oxymoron; you really can find the perfect suit to flatter your figure if you just understand a few things. The very first thing to know is that there are very few perfect bodies out there. Everyone has something they are trying to deal with. Here are a few tips for HIM and HER on how to impress when forced to wear very little clothing‌.
A Woman’s Guide to Looking Good on the Beach Small on Top If you're small on top, you may want to try the newest, little swimsuits from Brazil. The Brazilian woman is generally smaller on top than the Australian girl, and their swimsuits are cut accordingly. Look for tops with a touch of padding, or an under wire, demi-bra style that makes the most of a beautiful, dainty, bust line. Try to find a top with adjustable straps at shoulders and around back so that you can tighten and adjust things, to help fill out the top line. You are very lucky that you have the body to wear those cute, ruffled tops that are so hot right now, so go for it. And as for bandeau tops, only you can wear those well. You can also show off in those tiny, triangle tops that the big busted girls only dream about. Avoid tops with too much fabric or have a poor fit. Opt for separates, where you can choose your top and bottom separately.
Big on Top You may need some extra support; underwire tops can work well and look great. Halter-top bikinis can be a good choice by offering support, while providing some sexy cleavage too. Look for styles that are banded around the midriff and can be tied in back and around the neck. This style will give you some lift and will allow you to make adjustments for a personal fit.
Look for one-piece swimsuits with some structure in the bust, such as soft foam cups or at least, a shelf bra. Straight cut bust styles such as a classic tank can look clean and sporty. Wide shoulder straps will also be much more comfortable than thin, spaghetti straps. Avoid strapless bandeau tops and those tiny, triangle tops that offer minimal coverage. Again, make sure to get a suit where you can order the top and bottom sizes separately.
No Waist No problem. It’s not that you don’t have a waist, it’s that you hips are slim. If you don't have many curves, create some by wearing one-piece suit with a high-on-the-thigh cut. A belted waistline on a one-piece suit will give the appearance of a whittled middle. So will a draped, surplice detail that pinches in at the waist, or a curvy seam line that runs down each side of the torso. Bikinis are good for you. Add some illusion at the hips with rings, ruffles and bows. If you’re small on top, go for a strapless bandeau. Go for a dark, solid bottom and a wildly printed or embellished top. Avoid solid-colored or horizontal striped one-pieces.
Plus size figure Show a little skin in just the right places and you will look seductively svelte and super sexy! Look for onepiece swimsuits with lace or mesh
inserts. A strategically placed cut-out, or a deep V neckline, can really change your visual image. Lengthen your thigh with an adjustable ruching detail at the hip. A sheer sarong can give you a little confidence and still look totally glamorous. Dark, cool colors are always good. So are swirling, or V patterns. Try a swimsuit with dark, solid panels down each side of the torso and a floral printed middle. Avoid too much fabric. Modesty is certainly OK, but too much coverage is not necessarily a better option. Also, stay away from white, as well as bright, neon fabrics and those nappy textiles.
Big on Bottom The newest, mini-skirted bikinis are too cute and made just for you! Don’t go for a super frilly one, though. Instead, pick a smooth, skimming skirt that is short and sweet, but covers what it needs to. A ruffled or highly decorated top is OK though. The details will draw attention to your top half. You could also go for a moderate, bottom bikini that has a 3 inch side...very chic! Make that a solid bottom and print top for a super effect. Avoid boy shorts, too skimpy bottoms, or lots of ruffles and details at the hips. Whatever you end up wearing, do it with confidence!
A Man's Guide To Looking Good On The Beach
The beach is a fashion minefield for men. So we've put together a foolproof guide to looking good on the beach. Flex your muscles, and enjoy the female attention with this mustsee video on beach fashion.
Make sure your feet are in good condition; dry flaky skin and toenail fluff will leave your hooves coming off second best to the beach donkey.
Body Hair
What you wear on your head can define an outfit, and there is little middle ground: it's either in or out, so keep an eye out for passing trends. That said, there are some eternal nono's.....first and foremost the comedy hat - what better way to show people you've got a sense of humor, right? Wrong. Novelty hats are as bad as shell suits and mullets. It's not big and its not clever. Bandana's may help to keep hair off your face whilst look stylish, but its definitely doesn't suit you sir, and remember handkerchief's will just lead to comparisons with George Formby.
Having chest hair isn't a problem, but you won't attract the right sort of attention if you look like a Wookie from behind, so get a back wax before your holiday. Leave your pins alone though, bald legs will make your calfs look like two anaemic kippers frying in the sun. Slightly hairy feet are ok, as long as you don't look to much like a Hobbit on its summer holiday.
Shorts If you're more Borat than Bond, a skimpy swimsuit is only going to draw attention to the bits you will want to hide, and no amount of posing and posturing is going to cover this up... So a loose fitting pair of shorts is probably the safest bet. Patterns and vivid floral prints will suit those of a more flamboyant nature. Dark solids are a classic that never go out of style and flatter most men, just be careful to choose a little lighter color if your skin is particularly pale. Show off your athletic side with a stripe or let out the rocker in you with a bold graphic print. The rule to remember here is this; if you don’t want to see it on someone else, don’t wear it yourself!
Headwear
Accessories Too much jewelry is never a good thing and should be kept to a minimum. A single surf-style necklace or leather bracelet can work for you, but looking like an extra from Pirates of the Caribbean will not. Try to keep your sunglasses simple. Sharp-angled, sports shades with rainbow colored lens' won't suit everyone. If you don't suit the surfer/tour de france look, try going all retro sexy and Top Gun with a pair of aviator shades.
Sarongs
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The humble sarong - simple, stylish and such an easy garment to put on… well, for those who know how. Whether you're off to the south coast or the south pacific check out Videojug 'Beach Fashion' for a variety of ways to wear a sarong with style, rather than like a bafoon.
The beach is for posing, not for exercise, so only get active if you are athletic by nature, playing with a bat and ball on your own won't win you admiring glances. But being energetic isn't the only way to perk the interest of the more discerning members of the public. Display your intellect with a carefully chosen book, a classic or current bestseller will help give the impression your as deep as the ocean in front of you. Whereas a graphic novel or a copy of Guns and Ammo will send the ladies into a faster retreat than the Red Army.
Footwear An even worse crime than the banana hammock, is hitting the sands with a sock and sandal combination. Wearing trainers with bare feet is also bad news, not only for your image, but also for the environment. Keep it simple: stick to flip-flops or Birkenstock style sandals.
Written by Fran. Courtesy of Articlesbase.com
How To Choose The Right Fitness Clothes For
Your
Workout
Who said that exercising cannot be done in style? It seems like an impossible job to look good while working out and sweating it all out. Believe it or not, looking good while exercising can boost your confidence and even encourage you to do complete workouts.
What clothes to wear? Choosing your outfits can be a crucial factor in working out. You should be able to choose an outfit which can flatter your body type. The general rule lies in black. Everyone looks great in black, as it creates the illusion of a thinner body. For women, they can look great in a sports bra and black shorts. These can enhance the appearance of womenʼs body parts. However, for women who are not confident with their bodies, they may opt for clothes which cover more areas of the body. Men on the other hand go for plain black attires which create a sexier look for them. If Shorts are not an option for you, then you can choose to wear jogging pants or work out pants that flatter your legs. Of course, you need to choose a comfortable set of clothes when your work out. There is no use in wearing beautiful workout clothes when you cannot do exercises freely. Do not compromise your clothes when working out because you are exercising to obtain your perfect body. What about your hairstyle? Engaging in heavy training will ruin your hairstyle especially if you let your hair loose. IT can frizz up your hair and it will not go back to how it looked good before. You can choose to tie your hair in a ponytail. Or if you find your loose ponytail bothering you, you can choose a braided hairstyle. Weaving your hair can secure it more properly which allows you to work out and not be worried that your hair will get ruined. But be careful when you choose to have a hairstyle like a ponytail of braided look because tying your hair too tight might cause your head fatigue and lead to headaches. There is nothing worse but to workout with an aching head. Never ever try to wear makeup when you are working out. These chemicals can clog into your pores and do not combine well with sweat. This can only cause your make up to smudge if it is not water proof. Also, your make up can cause you to have pimples, blackheads and whiteheads which do not look great on your face. There are certain types of cloth suitable for working out. Cotton cloth does not really do the job. It is very absorbent and can absorb all of your sweat and will not dry up. There are dry-fit lines available in sporting brands such as Nike, Adidas, Reebok and others you may want to try them out. They even come in the hippest designs and styles which can make you feel confident about working out. Itʼ true that working out can be fun, especially when you have the right clothes to match it. Written by Brandon Johnsen. Courtesy of Articlesbase.com
Creating A Hot Summer Garden Most people finish a great agreement of time and stab forecast their summer gardens. Whether you are planning a summer patch that is proposed to awe and amaze all those who direct to capture a peek or plainly annoying to concept a summer backyard that will inspire you when you survive to take a moment and glance around, charming in the fruits of your workers there is no purpose you should withhold on the planning play as it may confirm detrimental to the global realize. If you are looking for habits to make your summer patch sputter the absolute best way is to give it the assiduous planning and attention to present it deserves. First and principal you require to intend more than the plants that will go in your summer patch. Whether you are planting flora, grass, shrubs, leaves, fruits, or vegetables you necessity still require to intend the boundaries, close, landscaping, and design of your summer backyard. You should also deem the accents in your lawn and patch field that will platform certain aspects of your summer patch while
diminishing the effects of less attractive skin of your summer patch or the inborn landscape of your lawn. Arrange your summer backyard in a style that is attractive. Whether you are with traditional rows for a vegetable patch or raised landscaping boxes in exclusive areas along the exterior of your home there are ample of opportunities to dowry your summer backyard in as attractive of a style as possible. Take great time and tending that you do just that when planning your plot. You want your summer plot to be a place to show off to links and neighbors. Arranging it attractively so that it doesn't detract from the remainder of your landscaping pains is an adept move-even if your summer plot is intended to be purely functional as a vegetable backyard. Use lawn furniture, birdhouses, water features, and other clever landscaping tips and tricks to offer additional focal points throughout your summer patch quarter. Provide loads of distractions so the visitors may see something different every time they cease
by. Be deft that you do not make your summer patch look garish or overcrowded while. There is a subtle rest between having too many gaps in scenery and overloading the senses. Take burden that you do not frustrate that line.
appearance and from looking unkempt in areas that aren't speedily accessible for mowing.
Use lighting so that your summer patch may be enjoyed even when sundown is eminent. There are many ways this can be accomplished. I recommend using solar powered lighting along pathways and walkways within your summer backyard and overhead lighting in normal areas where there spaces and that are meant for congregating and socializing.
Install a water feature such as a goldfish pool or falls for a little dramatic sparkle. These are not only wonderful but allocate the opportunity for a shared field and a little more lighting in your garden sphere. If you like birds, it also gives the water a little scope in which to flutter and flitter to the delight of juvenile and older kids alike. For a genuinely warm summer garden it desires to be a garden the people want to enjoy and where they want to congregate. Little touches such as those mentioned above make a mammoth difference to visitors and boost the enjoyment of summer gardens exponentially.
Create pathways within your gardens and scratch them with pavers and pebbles. These pathways afford visitors a walking route through your garden topic and keep feet from compacting the soil and inhibiting the expansion in your garden. This is also a great style for charge your garden attractive in
Plan your summer garden to attract visitors and keep their attention and you should have no lack of flattering remarks about your green thumb or your gardening efforts. Remember to keep the plants looking well and wonderful although of you may find the opposed of the desired achieve is the container. Written by James Sawyers. Courtesy of Articlesbase.com
Five Fantastic Tips For Buying A Fountain
A water fountain is a great way of improving a garden without having to put in too much effort. Fountains are renowned for their calming, soothing effect as the sound of trickling water helps create a tranquil environment. They also help attract wildlife to the garden with many birds seeking a place to drink. They come in a wide range of styles meaning a suitable fountain can be found for any garden. However, it is important to consider some things before purchasing a water fountain.
Style Many styles of water fountains are available and the easiest way to decide which is best for you is to shop around on the internet. Several manufacturers produce modern, sleek water walls lending a contemporary aesthetic to the garden. Water walls are great focal points in the garden and some can even be used indoors making them very versatile. Alternatively you might prefer a traditional and elegant statue fountain depicting figures such as cherubs for a more classic look. These kind of features are reminiscent of the fountains found in piazza's throughout Italy. Grand and graceful they are sure to add a touch of flair. Of course, a simple fountain-head can always be opted for if you simply wish to jet water from a pond or lake. This approach is relaxed and understated but still creates an impressive effect as water sprays from the center of the pond. Size The size of the garden space will often determine the size of the water fountain. Spacious gardens are suitable for even the biggest fountains, some of which reach as high as 10ft. However, smaller gardens can also be catered for with much smaller fountains. Some fountains are now small enough to be used indoors and even on desktops in office spaces. Material Water fountains come in various materials and your choice of material should be influenced by your needs. Stainless steel fountains are stylish and versatile but can also be quite expensive. Stone fountains appear timeless and particularly natural however they are equally expensive and also weigh far more than most other fountains. Plastic fountains are unlikely to last for any great period of time and can look cheaply made. A great option is polyresin which combines the qualities of many other materials yet avoids their shortcomings. Polyresin gives the appearance of stone yet is relatively cheap to purchase and weighs very little making it easy to move around. As a material it is very durable and suitable throughout all weather conditions including frost and snow. Power Source Most water fountains are available with one of two power sources, although some are compatible with both. They will either be mains powered from an electric source connected to a plug socket or they will be solar powered. There are benefits and drawbacks to each method but the potential benefits of solar power appear to outweigh the negatives. Solar power is a very economical way of running a water fountain because it does not require anything other than the Sun, which thankfully is always free. It is also an environmentally friendly option making use of natural, renewable resources. The only real drawback is the level of performance which can drop slightly in periods of continued lack of sunshine. However, many solar pumps now store sunlight on brighter days for use on the dull days when sunshine is lacking. Indoors or Outdoors The type of water fountain you end up purchasing should be based upon where you will put it to use. Some water fountains are designed to sit in an existing body of water and therefore must be placed outside in a pond. However, others may be self contained or even supplied with a reservoir making them suitable to be placed on patios, decking areas or even indoors. Indoor fountains are generally smaller than garden fountains although there are some exceptions. Water walls and mirror fountains can match garden fountains for size if you can find the space inside to accommodate them. Unfortunately indoor fountains cannot make use of solar pumps due to the very fact they are indoors and out of the sunlight.
Written BradFountains. Smith. Photograph byarticlesbase.com, Zsuzsanna Kilian Written byby 1000 Courtesy of
Products To Love In June Just like anyone else I get tired of my stomach looking sad and flabby, and I live in horror of the dreaded “muffin top” but with this super easy to follow dvd I no longer dread swimsuit season. Crunch - Pick Your Spot Pilates is fun, super easy to follow and yet still gives you a great workout. You can choose to do one of the three ten minute sections, belly, butt or thighs, or you can do them all together. There is also another ten minute workout that hits everything! You really feel the difference and within a couple of days you can actually see a change, itʼs fantastic! So get up off the couch and down on the floor or a great workout with this amazing DVD! Please click here for more information.
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Reviewed by Rural Jungle Testing
The Byer of Maine® Aruba hammock is an entry-level hybrid hammock in a comfortable, standard single size. It's crafted with wood spreader bars and a special Elltex poly/cotton fiber blend that has a cotton feel and is UV and water resistant. Crafted EllTex, a hybrid polyester and cotton blend. Sized for 1 person; holds up to 250 lbs. Bed measures 6 ft. 9 in. L x 3 ft. 3 in. W Overall hammock length measures 10 ft. 2 in. Available in a variety of fun and bright colors. Please click here for more information.
No, no, NO!! Step away from that Speedo! Guys, please! There is nothing better than being able to show your self off at the beach, especially after all the hard work you put in to getting ready to play under the summer sun, but we have a better way! Let us introduce you to these bad boys, the Diesel Men's Hollow Long Board Boxer. Available in Black, Red and Orange these universally flattering alternatives are sure to make a splash, but in the right way! Please click here for more information.
Products To Love In June Tired of all the tiny teeny bikinis that cover nothing and leave you feeling like you want to hide? Ladies, have we got a swim suit for you! Go retro sexy in the gorgeous Vamp One Piece by Jantzen. Show just enough skin to keep things fun but still be covered enough to let the world know that you are lady. Flattering on every body type this super hott suit comes in Tropical Green (featured in picture), Java, Rose Violet and White. Please click here for more information.
Greco Surf is known worldwide for its innovative touch on soft surfboards continuing to design new shapes that nobody has done before. This year's new 8 foot soft surfboard model called the 2.0 includes the highest density foam out there, a new mesh netting system fused into the core, triple stringer which has a non hallow fiberglass tubing for a center stringer and increased strength Birchwood side stringers. Nobody in the industry is putting technology like this on the market. Dimensions are 8' x 22 ½" x 3 Ÿ" Greco Surf has been recognized globally as being one of the best boards for beginners and advanced alike. Please click here for more information.
Smart Solar Aquatic Range Floating Lily Solar Fountain. Create an intimate garden oasis around this faux rock waterfall...pump included. At the end of the day, pull up your chaise and relax to the soothing sounds of flowing water from your own outdoor garden fountain. This faux rock waterfall looks and sounds like a trickling creek you might come across while hiking in the woods. Use the Rocky Stream Outdoor Garden Fountain with your existing or new pond, or by itself; the faux rock waterfall includes a basin that can be used as a minipond, or covered with pebbles to create a "pond-less" waterfall. Please click here for more information.
City Spotlight
Maui, HI When in Maui you will truly experience the meaning of the words, "Maui no ka oi" which means Maui is the best. And rightly so, you will find Maui Hawaii the best holiday destination you have been to. It offers the great versatility of nature in the form of large beaches, majestic mountain ranges, lush rain forests, and its superior marine life which include the humpback whales in the waters. If I call it the best part of Hawaii the natives and the visitors both will agree with me beyond doubt. Lahaina a famous town in West Maui in Hawaiian language means the "cruel sun". When in this part of the world, always remember that you are quite close to the equator which makes the sun rays more powerful. So when going to take a sunbath always take proper precautions so that you won't get sunburns. After all who would like to get the sunburns on the start of holidays? Maui with all its natural treasures is a wonderful tourist destination. You can find this place changing colors with everyday of your stay. So much so that you will find time falling short to fully experience this place. You can start with relaxing on the warm beaches getting sunbath in the morning and then jumping into the waters to get a glimpse of its marine life. The very second day you can plan for trekking and camping in its lush green valleys. And when
you do all sort of activities in the day time Maui soothes you in the evening with the cool breeze and an interesting nightlife. Maui is full of events all the time. You will have to work overtime to keep up with the unlimited fun taking palace in Maui. Reaching Maui is not a problem as it is conveniently connected with the Kahului Airport which is the main airport for the islands of Maui. Getting around in Maui besides its lack of public transportation systems is never a problem as you can find car rentals everywhere. Another advantage in going in for car rentals is that you will find it cheaper than any other place in the US. Same is the case with the hotels as you can find a hotel for every budget. So if you are running on a tight budget be assured that you will find a budget hotel in Maui. The only important part for you is to make prior reservations as Maui is always packed with tourists. Some of the regular facilities offered by the hotels in Maui include air conditioned rooms, car rentals, airport pick and drop facilities, swimming pools, health clubs, spas, restaurants etc. The best part of Hawaii is always ready to embrace you into its valleys so if you yet not visited Maui just pack your bags and take off to this wonderful part of the world, Maui. Written by Dhriaj, courtesy of Articlesbase.com
Businesses That Make A Difference
At REI, we love to get outside and play, and we know first-hand the importance of quality outdoor gear.
We stand behind all our products with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, and we design our own line of award-winning REI brand gear and clothing. Whether you're new to outdoor adventure or a seasoned pro, we gladly share our enthusiasm for our products—and the trails, slopes and waterways where we play. Each year, REI donates millions of dollars to support conservation efforts nationwide, and sends scores of volunteers to build trails, clean up
stores, phone us, or visit the REI website.
By staying true to our roots, we've beaches, and teach outdoor ethics to earned a place on FORTUNE kids. Through responsible business magazine's list of the "100 Best practices, we strive to reduce our Companies to Work For" every year environmental footprint. since the rankings began in 1998. We work hard to earn our reputation for What began as a group of 23 mountain quality and integrity every day. Our climbing buddies is now the nation's commitment remains the same as largest consumer cooperative with when we started out in 1938: to more than three million active inspire, educate and outfit for a members. But no matter how large we lifetime of outdoor adventure. grow, our roots remain firmly planted in the outdoors. Our passion for Check out www.rei.com to find out more. outdoor adventure is clear, whether you walk into one of our 100-plus
Random Facts
This month's random fact gives us the low down on one of the coolest parts of the summer: Surf Culture!
Surf culture includes the people, language, fashion and life surrounding the art and sport of surfing.
The history of surfing began with the ancient Polynesians. That initial culture directly influenced modern surfing which began to flourish and evolve in the early 20th century, with popularity spiking greatly during the 1950s and 1960s, principally in Hawaii, Australia, and California. It continues to progress and spread throughout the world. It has at times affected popular fashion, music, literature, films, jargon, and more.
The fickle nature of weather and the ocean, plus the great desire for the best possible types of waves for surfing, make surfers dependent on weather conditions that may change rapidly. Surfer Magazine, founded in the 1960s when surfing had gained popularity with teenagers, used to say that if they were hard at work and someone yelled "Surf's up!" the office would suddenly be empty. Also, since surfing has a restricted geographical necessity (i.e. the coast), the culture of beach life often influenced surfers and vice versa. Localism or territorialism is a part of the development of surf culture in which individuals or groups of surfers designate certain key surfing spots as their own.
Aspects of 1960s surf culture in Southern California, where it was first popularized, include the woodie, bikinis and other beach wear, such as boardshorts or baggies, and surf music. Surfers developed the skateboard to be able to "surf" on land; and a number of other boardsports. Of these the most popular being snowboarding and skateboarding, in addition to other spin-offs that have grown out of the sport ever since.
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