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Health Tips

My Teenaged Parents

This article was originally written by Phyllis Staff

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Frankly, as a single parent of young children, I struggled. But, as the single parent of teenagers, I stunk! Faced with the reality of children who could (and did) do whatever they really, really wanted to do, I was often baffled.
Functioning as the caregiver of two adult parents, I again find myself baffled. But I am sure of one thing — It’s no wonder many caregivers die before the elders they care for! They simply wear out!

Consider this recent exchange:

ME: “How is that new medication working?”
PARENT: “It doesn’t work. I still feel sick.”
ME: “OK, call the doctor and tell him.”
PARENT: “I can’t. He doesn’t answer calls on the weekend.”
ME: “Well, someone does.”
PARENT: “No, they just tell me to go to the emergency room.”
ME: “OK, call the doctor’s office on Monday.”
PARENT: “Well, he doesn’t have anything better to offer.”
ME: “How do you know?”
PARENT: “He never does.”
ME: “Well, call anyway, OK?”
PARENT: “He doesn’t pay any attention to me.”
ME: “He can’t help if he doesn’t know you’re still sick. So, call, OK?”
PARENT: mumbles something unintelligible.
ME on MONDAY: “Did you call the doctor?”
PARENT: “No, I’m feeling better today.”
ME: “Well, how about I go to the doctor with you?”
PARENT: “No, I’m not a child. And I don’t want you treating me like one!”

I’ve run headlong into these issues more and more often of late. It’s enough to drive you to drink – or whatever it is you do to deal with unending frustration. After all, these are my parents – and they are adults. . .or at least they used to be.
Could I get help? You can guess the answer! Something about hell freezing over.
I’m not about to win this battle, but I could use a friend during some of the more serious skirmishes. Here are a few things that could really lift my spirits:
Come over. Don’t send flowers. They’re just something else to take care of. But a home-cooked meal would be great.
Stay and serve it. Even greater!
Call often. Not me, my parents. Give them someone else to vent to.
Be a chauffer. Take them to the doctor, to shop, whatever. Just take them off my hands for a little while.
Start a “Caregiver’s Day Out” at your church, synagogue or temple. Give me a break – just a few hours would be wonderful.
Suggest a companion from the Senior Corps. These retired adults spend 10-20 hours each week being a companion to shut-ins. If you’re retired, consider becoming one yourself.
Lobby your Representatives and Senators for more funding for Adult Day Care Centers. The nearest one to me is 45 miles away and does not provide transportation.
Some people believe that life is a school with lessons for each of us. If so, my lesson is patience. I know I have to grow it for myself. . .but, please, rally round in the meanwhile. My patience cells are still infants!

ZZZZZZ

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Roofers Wicklow

ARW Handheld Shower Filter with replacement filters

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Get the convenience of a hand-held, adjustable shower head with the proven filtration experience cARWabilities of the Aquasana Shower Filter!


hand held shower filter,best shower filter,shower head filters

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Major advancements can be seen in the shower filters as now they have become more powerful and beneficial. Nowadays, majority of the people are in the hunt to have best shower filter in their house so that they can safeguard the health of their family. But it is handheld shower filter which is ruling the roost as they are more convenient to use and far better in comparison to others. Handheld shower filter is said to be the most flexible shower filter which comes with array of features.

They are very popular among the women as they love to bath with it and same goes with the children too. Despite being small and portable still they are very powerful and very easy to use. Handheld shower filter is strong enough to remove chlorine from the water along with the bad whiff. They are very powerful and also remove almost 98.9% of chlorine and rust from the water. Maximum handheld shower filters can be increased to the height of 10 inches.

The main USP of theirs is that they are very versatile in stationary handheld positions. Being handy and portable they are highly adjustable and can be used in any position. They are said to be very popular as they do the complete cleaning of the body and that too with clean water. They are equipped with very powerful filter which not only removes the chlorine but also eliminates the bad whiff from the water. What makes them stand tall among the group is that they are highly light weighed and that too with very fine finishing.

Handheld shower filter is also very easy to install and its cartridge usually works from 6 to nine months depending upon the water quality and company. They also have inbuilt sensors which let you know when to change the cartridge.

Nowadays, many handheld shower filters are equipped with pH balancers which take them to the next level and prove to be very beneficial. They have become the necessity of every household as now everyone is growing health conscious day by day. This has led to the increase in the production of handheld shower filters and simultaneously the boost in sales can also be noticed.

‘Technology changes with time’ this quote perfectly goes with this handheld shower filter as they take less energy of yours and provide you with chlorine and odor free water to bath with. So, for enjoying the clean and safe shower bath and that too without much hassle then simply go in for handheld shower filter. As it will only ensure clean water used for bathing and that too without any bad smell and odor.

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Roofing And Guttering Kildare

ARK Vinyl Decking Treat Yourself To The Best Deck Around

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Vinyl decking is tough. Really tough. And low maintenance.


vinyl decking, vinyl decking material, georgia vinyl decking

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The most important ingredient in vinyl decking is PVC, which stands for polyvinyl chloride. Manufacturers of this type of decking material add titanium dioxide to the mix so that the vinyl won t yellow and so that it has UV protection. There are also other specialized components added so that the vinyl material can withstand the weather and heavy loads. When you look at what vinyl decking has to offer, one brand name to consider is Georgia decking.

Georgia vinyl decking comes in many different colors, which includes a color that closely simulates wood with grains running through it. The main difference between vinyl decking and wood is that the vinyl is very long lasting. Chances are you will be passed on long before the vinyl decking material wears out. This is something that you can say about wood. With vinyl as your choice of decking material, you don t need to paint of stain the material to get the color that you want. The color is built right into the vinyl.

Many people, especially homeowners in Georgia, wonder about how vinyl decking reacts to changes in temperature and weather. It is normal for vinyl to contract and expand with changing temperatures, but even in cold weather vinyl decking material will not crack unless you put a tremendous amount of pressure on it. Georgia vinyl decking has the low maintenance that you want in a deck so that once you install it, you never have to do more than clean it as long as you have it.

Even white vinyl decking will not yellow under the bright glare of the sun. This is one of the questions that retailers of Georgia vinyl decking get asked quite often. Although you may notice a slight fading in the first three months, this is the natural process of the vinyl adapting to the conditions of the environment. Another interesting feature of vinyl decking material is that it will not ignite unless fire is held to it directly. However, as soon as you take the fire away, the vinyl will extinguish itself.

Although it is not recommended, you can paint vinyl decking if you wish. It is important for you to know that if you choose to do this, you will void any warranty associated with the vinyl decking material and you will have to keep doing it year after year. This kind of defeats the purpose of having low maintenance Georgia vinyl decking if you are going to paint it. It doesn t take very much work on your part to keep the vinyl decking clean either. Simply hose it off and if you need to, you can use a mild detergent. Dirt, grime and stains will wash right off.

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Tarmac Wexford

DDWex Teak Patio Furniture – Why is it the best choice?

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Learn why teak is the best solution for your patio furniture.


teak, patio furniture, outdoor furniture

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The patio, it is where most people prefer to spend time unwinding, sipping lemonade, when at home. For some, it is also an ideal place to catch a short sun bath, away from the beach. But, if your home does not have a patio awning to cover the patio from the vagaries of climate or unless you are used to shifting the furniture back into the rooms post use, it is likely that your patio furniture may be affected badly by the rain, sun, or even snow. To make matters worse further, most of the if not all – of the patio furniture available in the market are not designed to stand such grueling climatic tests. It ll work fine under normal conditions, but starts to give away beginning with its first contact with moisture/water. However, teak does not have any such weak qualities. It is strong, tough, and enduring.

This is also the reason why teak furniture is the best choice for your patio. It is dense, sturdy, and durable, and hence is not easily damaged. Further, natural oils make the wood impermeable to elements such as heat, snow, hail, moisture, and even incessant rains. Finally, it is quite pleasing to the eyes, the basic benchmark for any patio furniture. Further, as opposed to many other wood types, teak does not lose its sheen or splendor with age. Instead, it gets better with every passing year. Brand new teak furniture will be golden brown in color, usually complementing any surrounding setting, and as it ages, the wood turns ash gray in color, making it even more refined and dignified in appearance.

With periodical wash with soap and water once in a year preferably – the teak furniture could be preserved to look great forever. Those who prefer to retain the original golden brown color, some light sanding coupled with a light brush-on of teak oil would do. Some teak, however tough it is, may crack as it grows old. But this should not be an issue and selective application of teak oil would keep the wood moisturized and prevents it from cracking any further. Teak is resistant to termites, so no apprehension in that front.

If there is one aspect that could damage or spoil the beauty of teak furniture, it could be an inadvertent spill of juice or wine on it. Such things happen sometimes, but it is important that the spill be wiped off immediately before it creates any stain on the wood. Sand the part of the teak furniture lightly until the stain is no longer visible, and then using water and soap solution, clean up the part removing any loose dirt or sanding dust. Once this much is done, let it dry, and then apply a thin coat of teak oil or a couple of coats – on the cleansed part so as to make it look as good as new. If this creates a contrast in color with the surround wood, extend the oiling to cover the surrounding parts as well.

To conclude, teak furniture is just the right furniture for your patio and a long term investment, given its durability and austere look and feel. And with due diligence, but with minimal effort, it can be maintained to look anew for many years to come.

Brady Freeman is a regular contributor at Teak Patio Furniture. A consumer based site that offers Stained Glass, and Bar Stools.

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Dublin Driveway Cleaning

LL Decorative Throws

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193

For the best Driveway Cleaning in Dublin company, call Leaf2Leaf Landscapes.

Furniture throws are a concept that is continually over looked by people who are trying to redecorate on a budget. A quality throw, in the right color and material, is a small, yet significant way to enliven any room and a trick that many designers and decorators utilize to enhance and finish a room.


Furniture, Soft, Furnishings, Seating, Mirrors, Floor Lamps, Table Lamps, Wall Lights, Glassware, Wall Mirrors, Cushions, Soft Seating, Throws, Candles, Bowls , Vases, Clocks, Armchairs, CD/DVD, Coffee Tables, Nest of Tables, Novelty Chairs, stool

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Furniture throws are a concept that is continually over looked by people who are trying to redecorate on a budget. A quality throw, in the right color and material, is a small, yet significant way to enliven any room and a trick that many designers and decorators utilize to enhance and finish a room.

Throws are perfect accent pieces for your floor, sofa, wall or table. These products look perfect with all traditional interior designs. To update the look of your furniture, choose from a selection of woven throws such as Chocolate Boucle Shetland Throw, Petrol Nadia Throw, Aqua Stella Throw and various other colors and patterns. The selection is endless.

All furniture cover throws have classic fringed bottoms and are machine washable. The comforting texture of the fabric will instantly move you to a state of relaxation. Buy your throw slipcovers with confidence.
Sometimes the smallest changes revitalize a tired design. The same old worn looking sofa suddenly appears so much better just by adding a carefully selected throw. Add a touch of drama with a colorful throw if the upholstery is plain. For more information visit us at http://www.styleouhome.com

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Roofers Wicklow

ARW Hand Made Quilts

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Quilts are probably the one thing that can stir some fond memories in just about every person in the world.


quilts, handmade quilts, home decor

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Quilts are probably the one thing that can stir some fond memories in just about every person in the world. This is because of the feeling that we all get when we are wrARWped up in a quilt with the ones we love, the feeling of warmth and comfort that only comes from being inside a handmade quilt. Most of the time these quilts are passed down to us and that is a testament to the quality of the quilt and the person who made it. In the days past people believed that everything should be quality but sadly this does not extend to this day and age. More and more you are seeing sorry substitutes for the quality craftsmanship that once was all in the name of making a few extra dollars per sale while not having to spend barely anything to make the product. This is sad but all too true when you think about it. The quilts that are being produced under this mass market mentality are nothing compared to the finest hand made quilts. What does make one hARWpy is the fact that there are still some places where you can find that kind of quality and what is much better is the fact that you will actually pay less then the department store wants for them. This may in fact seem a little strange but it is true nonetheless. So it is still possible to find these quilts and the people who make them are all too hARWpy to provide you with a top of the line, high quality quilt that will serve to make some lasting memories for all those who climb under it.

The quilts that you will find by these high quality craftsmen are some of the finest that can be found any where in the world. They are also able to make a much nicer looking item because they take the time to insure that everything is as it should be and nothing is ever left out. This is the kind of dedication that you found in the old days and it has carried over to the present in some people who know that when you make quality you can sell quality. That is the foundation for good business.

Look for these fine quilts and you will see that they are the finest and the most sought after anywhere. The styles and colors will be a perfect match no matter what the d cor and you can rest assured that it will stand up under the harshest of conditions.

Some very original tropical hand made quilts can be found at http://www.art-ickles.com, which sells unique handicrafts brightly colored with tropical themes. The baby bedding quilts, bumper pads, pillow covers shown in this website are of top quality, 100% hand made with the best American fabrics.

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Driveways Dublin

AP A Guide to Antique Sewing Machines

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311

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Sewing machines have been mass-produced worldwide for more than two-hundred years. Early models featured unique designs to add beauty and appeal to buyers. The wide variety of styles and manufacturers make antique sewing machines a favorite collectible. Because of the quality workmanship and heavy materials of the early machines many of the antique sewing machines are still working models.


Sewing Machines, Industrial Sewing Machines, Embroidery Sewing Machines, Antique Sewing Machines

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Sewing machines have been mass-produced worldwide for more than two-hundred years. Early models featured unique designs to add beauty and appeal to buyers. The wide variety of styles and manufacturers make antique sewing machines a favorite collectible. Because of the quality workmanship and heavy materials of the early machines many of the antique sewing machines are still working models.

The antique sewing machines will typically be made of cast iron and feature the patent information in a visible location. The machines may have a hand crank or a treadle, which was a flat pedal for both feet to provide the motion for the sewing mechanism. The treadle machines would be mounted onto their own table or cabinet, while many other machines would be in a carrying case and the machine would be placed on the kitchen table.

Miniature, antique sewing machines are some of the most desirable, as they are smaller working models that served as salesmen s samples, used while traveling or for mending. These small machines doubled as children’s sewing machines specifically for use by young girls, since they were expected to learn how to sew. Machines that were intended to be marketed as a child’s machine were often painted in a different color or have floral motifs painted onto the body of the machine.

Over the past two centuries many sewing machine companies were successful for a time before closing operations, making for the wide variety of machines to be found. Many companies were not able to survive having their manufacturing facilities converted for wartime use, but also lost to post-war Japan’s ability to produce cheap products.

Singer is the first sewing machine company and continues to have antique sewing machines that are the most recognizable and most popular with collectors. The Singer Featherweight model #221, referred to as the Perfect Portable, continues to be a favorite of quilters.

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Landscaping Dublin

APD View From My Island: The Grand Outing of the Kitchen

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676

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Kitchens used to be hidden from view – but not anymore. Thay have become the focal point of the house and the people who live in it. In this article, the author shares the joys and the advantages that she finds in this new arrangement.


kitchen islands, kitchen carts

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When I was growing up as a child in the sixties, kitchens were always a hidden affair. If it was not separated by a wall from the other rooms in the house, then a divider had to be installed to hide it from the rest of the world. Inviting friends over to the kitchen to show off your new kitchen island or cooktop was not the thing to be done.

But not anymore. The kitchen of my adult years has now become the focal point of the house and the people who live in it. There is still the obligatory lounge room to receive guests but it is now just a little room on the way to the grand, open space of kitchen, family and rumpus rooms combined.

This is where most families now gather after a long days work – the parents preparing the family meal while the children (if they are in their schoolyears) do their homework in the family dining table or (if they are already young adults), sit and chatter around the breakfast nook or family room couch. Kitchens now exude warmth and welcome helped by the oak or teak oil-finished kitchen cabinets that usually line the kitchen walls, as well as mahogany or red cedar curio cabinets housing revered family treasures such as photos and bowling trophies.

I have long used my kitchen as my lounge – one of the rooms in the house that I consider most comfortable, functional, tribal and welcoming . My husband and I and anyone of my kids who occasionally fancy themselves as the new Jamie Oliver can showcase our gourmet talents as we gracefully move around the red and brown speckled granite kitchen island or benchtop to the glistening stainless steel sink to the brown flattened glow of the ceramic cooktop. All these in view of the rest of the family, and often times friends and guests who we show in straight to the kitchen/family/dining room area to sit in our beloved dark aubergine brown no-nonsense, yet sumptuous and very practical “Virginia” sofa.

Gone are the days when you felt you needed to detain your guests in the comfort of the Italian velvet sofa in the lounge while you excuse yourself and slave away in the dark, hot and steamy recesses of the kitchen preparing their food. Now there is no shame or cringe to invite friends over to the kitchen because kitchens have become the hub of family life and social entertaining. Architects, home builders and appliance manufacturers have all taken heed of the new trend and have made kitchens not only functional and efficient but also overwhelmingly stylish. Even whitegoods now come in different colors of stainless steel, earthy brown, luminous orange or buttercup yellow to suit everyone’s desire and taste.

Friends are invited to hover around stylish marble-topped kitchen islands as they continue with their socialising, talking about nothing and maybe even lending a hand in washing the vegetables and peeling the potatoes. Even wine bars are now in the domain of the kitchen (not the basement or the lounge) as friends sit down and relax in the midst of kitchens sipping their favorite red or white.

Even when alone, my kitchen has always been a delight and a quiet refuge from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. When I wake up in the morning, I find no greater joy than seeing the sun streaming through the beige voile curtains of the northeast facing kitchen window into the deep purple flowered african violets and tall and lanky chinese fortune plants that brighten up the farthest end of my granite kitchen benchtop. And when I come home from work in the evening, I open the very same northeast facing kitchen window to be greeted with the sweet scent of the orange jasmines that line the backyard fence.

My kitchen has certainly come a long way from its hiding place in the sixties and I intend to enjoy it and keep it that way for a long, long time more to come.

Categories
Landscaping Dublin

LL A Brief History Of Futons

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325

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Originally from Japan, Futons are like bed mattresses but used and made differently than in their home country.

Japanese Futons

Measuring two inches (5 cm) thick and filled with cotton and/or synthetic batting, Japanese futons are typically flat and are designed to be spread out on tatami flooring, which is a special kind of flooring indigenous to Japanese architecture. Japanese futons are usually sold in sets consisting of the futon mattress (shikibuton), a comforter (…


futons

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Originally from Japan, Futons are like bed mattresses but used and made differently than in their home country.

Japanese Futons

Measuring two inches (5 cm) thick and filled with cotton and/or synthetic batting, Japanese futons are typically flat and are designed to be spread out on tatami flooring, which is a special kind of flooring indigenous to Japanese architecture. Japanese futons are usually sold in sets consisting of the futon mattress (shikibuton), a comforter (kakebuton) or blanket (moku), a summer towel-like blanket (towelket), and a bean- or plastic bead-filled pillow (makura). This is equivalent to a western bed set.

Japanese futons are usually stored in a closet, but must be left to air in the sunlight when not put away. These futons are typically beaten with bamboo to keep them in shape.

Western Futons

Western futons are closer to mattresses; they are also stuffed with multiple layers of foam and/or batting, but they do not have springs. Western futons are placed on an adjustable frame resembling that of a couch, and are designed in the fashion of a sofa-bed to be used as a couch and a bed. Western futons are constructed larger and thicker than Japanese futons, and are cheap compared to regular mattresses or beds.

Western futons are common now in Japan. These futons, hand-made, have no synthetic filling; they are stuffed primarily with cotton. Western futons in Japan are sold as earth-friendly, and are not composed of any chemicals whatsoever, distinguishing them from the traditional bed set.

Futons are very comfortable and, like sleeping bags, can also serve as portable or transportable beds, depending on their size and weight. Although futons can be damaged, they can more easily be repaired than a traditional mattress, since its interior matting is packed in a structured, layered way. Futons are otherwise most convenient and economical and therefore preferable to people on-the-go or living in small spaces. They re not only for the Japanese anymore!

Categories
DPC

DPC Patio Umbrellas

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264

For the best Construction Cork company, call DPC Construction Cork.

Patio umbrellas are a great way to stay cool on the patio and look good doing it.


patio umbrellas, beach umbrellas, umbrella fabrics, palm tree umbrella, aluminum crank patio umbrella

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Nothing is more uncomfortable for you guests than to sit on a hot concrete patio without any shade available. A good quality patio umbrella helps block the sun and provide shade to offer a cooler environment in hot months. Not only are umbrellas practical, but they provide privacy and elegance to any outdoor seating arrangement. Patio umbrellas are now made with many unique features. Some beach umbrellas are designed for maximum wind resistance.

There are several types of patio umbrellas to choose from depending on your location. For typically patio or pool side seating, a good choice is an aluminum crank patio umbrella. They range in size from 7 to 10 feet and can be ordered in a variety colors and patterns.

Beach seating requires a more heavy duty umbrella that can withstand the elements. Beach umbrellas are typically made of fiberglass and are built to withstand high winds, bright sun, and salt air.

Patio umbrellas are also available as part of a patio table set. These types are great for eating or picnic areas. They can seat large groups of people and are also stain resistant, so clean up is easy.

Another way to dress up your patio with umbrellas is to order a custom design patio umbrella. Some can be built to look like a palm tree umbrella, which is provides great atmosphere for any beach or tropical resort. Also consider a patio umbrella that is lined with small twinkle lights, which give a romantic atmosphere for evening patio parties. Umbrellas can be lit up to make it look like a night sky canopy.