Interview with Deborah Dolen

I absolutely love Deborah Dolen’s work! I often find that DIY is too focused on garden or interior design products, and it’s too specialized and difficult for me to do.

I constantly see, for example, ideas for so-called cool shelves that I’m supposed to magically build myself. However, Dolen’s work is a welcome change from that trend. I find her ideas easy but still pretty and classy, and refreshingly practical.

I am constantly getting compliments on the guest soaps on my bathroom, and people are very impressed when I can casually mention that I made them myself. However, the credit should really go to Dolen, who taught me such an easy and beautiful method to make lovely little soaps. I also read her book about handwriting.

I was initially skeptical that I could sit through an entire book on something like handwriting, which is usually an extremely boring topic. But Dolen exposed a whole new side of handwriting to me! I had never realized that so much of a person’s personality and inner psychological workings could be exposed by something as mundane as the way they wrote the letter p.

I now find myself constantly looking over my friends’ shoulders to see if their handwriting has similar characteristics to mine, and to try to tell their hidden personalities and quirks.

Thank you, With Five Questions, for introducing me to such wonderful and interesting people like Deborah Dolen! I always look forward to finding out about someone new, or seeing an interview with someone whose work I am familiar with, like Dolen.

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My PhuketFit Weight Loss Review

A recent trip to the island of Phuket in Thailand proved to be a double bonanza in the true sense. It not only happens to be a superb holiday destination courtesy to its enchanting beaches, but I also found myself having an amazing fitness experience and losing 14 pounds of fat (result!). Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and it's established itself as a true health and fitness destination.

Fitness programs and healthy lifestyle programs have become increasingly popular in today’s world especially among people aged 20-50. This age group is well aware of the dangers of obesity and, most of all, just want to look and feel good about themselves. I'd seen many weight loss programs and detox advertisements and while I had been interested before, it was only when I found PhuketFit that I became a true convert.

 Scientific and Holistic Approach

Being overweight and obese is a common problem faced by many people of all ages. Apart from the health risks involved with obesity, it takes its toll on the persons self confidence and esteem. Which is why I loved the PhuketFit weight loss program so much! The trainers are not just qualified and well informed, but friendly and courteous and actually want to help you succeed.

The first day of the program I received a very detailed, and super-friendly, consultation with the detox director, Aom, to help me understand why I had gained my weight in the first place. This was then followed up with a customized program which was literally built for me.  

PhuketFit Review Training Programs

The training programs available, each conducted by difference trainers is fairly extensive. They took time to educate me about weight loss and detoxification, as well as on the right kind of physical training to undertake and how to complement this training with the right type of nutrition.

Be it yoga, pilates, circuit training, kickboxing, TRX training, or various other training classes, they were all included in my program. You can opt for 2-3 different training sessions per day depending on your personal preference. I was a complete beginner, but with the help of the weight loss coach, I knew exactly what to do, where to go and how to get the most out of my holiday.  

Detoxing for Rejuvenation

The detox helps cleansing your internal and mental body processes so you refresh, reset and rejuvenate. The idea is that it cleanses the body of toxins which accumulate over time. I know because I was spending way too much time at work and also living in a busy city, that my body just wasn't running well. Since doing the detoxification I literally felt like a weight was lifted and I was on a high for 3 days! After that I generally felt lighter, positive and energized throughout my stay.

 Overall I had a great time at PhuketFit! I wish I could be back there now, but I'll have to wait until my next holiday, so at the beginning of new year 2015, I will return!

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Looking to scout a film location? Here is what you should do

London has always been an area rich in film and photo shoot locations. A film location scout has literally thousands of amazing outside vistas and even more photo studios that provides the perfect setting for magazine shoots, commercials or films.

Making a film has become less dependent on location since technology has made it easier to make visual effects more realistic. Though everyone knows the added benefit of an actual location to add to the drama and the ability to connect with your audience.

The amazing thing about London is the variety of areas that provide just what a film crew is looking for. From the hills at Hampstead Heath to the curry houses at Brick Lane, there is no shortage of atmosphere.

The main danger to a filming or photo shoot is the weather, unless the scene calls for rain

Those who are looking to scout a location should consider the following:

• What timeline does the setting need to follow? Be aware of the surroundings that may be caught in the filming of a scene. How does it fit with the movie’s or shoot’s representation? Learning about the different areas of London that have a feel of a particular decade will pay dividends later on.

• When does London sleep? Knowing the rhythms of the city will help choose your location wisely. Some parts of the city are practically deserted on a Saturday while other bits are absolutely heaving. If a crowd is called for, how can you get it and whose permission might you need for different areas?

• What is the accessibility? If it is a film shoot, there may be several lorries, which need parking spaces. What about electrics? The fewer headaches everyone has about getting there and setting up means more time to shoot.

• Tea and biscuits? The comfort of the crew means for a better working environment all around. Space for lighting grids and toilet facilities are something to think about.

The vast selection of locations in London should mean you should be able to tick most boxes when it comes to meeting the requirements of any project.

The number of photo studios for hire in London can boggle the mind. Knowledge is key, and the more you know about the city and the production the better end result for all concerned.

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Party Like a Rock Star!

Many Uses of Party Buses

While most people rent party buses for traditional uses such as bachelorette and bachelor parties, party buses can be used for an array of events. Party buses do not have to be used only for the grown-up crowd. Party buses can be used to host events for everyone, even children. While party buses are typically less expensive and can provide a more spacious and comfortable ride than a limousine can provide, party buses are now becoming the most requested or most preferred method of transportation for "partying".

Take a look at the image below. We found a great person who rent Party Bus Rentals LA

Party Bus Uses for Children

For children, party buses can be used as a actual "location" to host a party in transit to a child friendly area. The "child-friendly area" could be the Children's Museum, Science Museum, or a restaurant. The party bus adds a different flavor to the overall atmosphere of the party. This will not be the traditional child's birthday party. For children, a party bus can also serve just as a simple ride. It doesn't take much for children to have a blast. Just imagine as a kid, a bus picks you up from your home and it is already decorated in your favorite super hero theme. There are cupcakes, lots of Juicy Juice "on the rocks", and music, what kid wouldn't love this? Children are already fascinated with all modes of transportation and to be able to ride a bus, a "fancy" bus to be exact, would be an awesome add to a birthday celebration. That party would be the talk of schoolyard.


Party Bus Uses for Teenagers

As for teenagers, party buses can be used as transit to the prom, both junior and senior proms, as well as to homecoming. This can assist in the event that the teenager may be too young to drive or unable to drive due to not having a license. The added value is that the party bus driver can also serve as the unofficial "chaperone" as the driver will most likely not leave unless at least the "owner" of the bill has gotten on the bus, therefore, there should be less "sneaking" off. Also, the party bus could be used as a cool way to celebrate a "Sweet 16" or a nice ending to a "Quinceanera". The bus could be stocked with an array of foods and snacks that teenagers would love. This would be a great idea!


Party Bus Uses for the Mature Crowd

Of course there are the typical bachelor and bachelorette party uses of the party bus, however, it could also be used as a mode of transportation on a night in which individuals know in an advance that a large amount of alcohol is planning to be consumed. For example, the party bus could be used as a mode of transportation for a class reunion, a 30th, 40th, or 50th birthday party, celebration of a promotion or a new baby, a graduation, etc. The other awesome thing about a party bus is that it can be decorated (as long as you clean up your mess) in as many themes as you like. You can also stock the party bus (as mentioned above) with a variety of snacks and "spirits" as you would like to spice up the night.



Party Bus Uses for the Senior Crowd

While most seniors have arrived past wanting to get drunk until the wee hours of the morning, taking sips in between trips to the bathroom and/ or each club, most seniors would like the opportunity just to sit back and ride. They have paid their dues and want to be chauffeured. Seniors may want to utilize a party bus in a similar aspect as what was listed above, for parties, reunions, etc. However, one thing that most seniors may have that the above demographics does not have, is time. With that, many senior groups get together for outings in which they want to travel together. A party bus is a nice way to be able to bring the entire group together and to be able to socialize, eat, and drink without the hassle of traffic. The trip may be to an outlet mall or a church, 45-60 minutes away. The bus may also be used for retirement party transportation, class reunion transportation, and even birthday party celebrations.

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Unique Beach Wedding Decoration Ideas

If you are lucky enough to be having a true "beach side" wedding, beach wedding decoration ideas won't be a problem for you. Nature will provide the most beautiful setting for you...free of charge!

However, if you are creating a beach theme wedding outdoors without the beach, you will need to decorate according to the beach theme you have chosen. You may be having your wedding on a outdoor deck, poolside, or even indoors. No worries! There are decorations for everything!

The very best place to satisfy your beach wedding decoration ideas is at an online theme party superstore! There are a plenty of them out there in cyberspace but only a few qualify as true "superstores"!


Are you are in the mood for a little browsing?


If so, begin your search at Novelty Sales - Internet Party Superstore.

This store is awesome! In particular, check out their links for Luau/Tropical Party and Western themes. While you are there, type the word "Pirate" in their search box. You are going to find great decorations to go with absolutely every theme you can imagine! Everything from tiki candles, to pink flamingos, to coconut ukuleles, to seashell baskets, to colored starfish, to limbo kits! You'll find centerpieces, favors, tableware, confetti, and decorating kits. I can't say enough about this store...you are going to love it!

ShindigZ

Next stop...check out the Theme Parties at ShidigZ! They carry a selection of 38,000 decorations and favors. You are sure to find something you just "gotta have"! Make sure you check out the theme links for Gardens & Parks, Luau, Nautical, Western, Stars, Under the Seas...oh heck...check them ALL out! Like "Aerosmith" says..."I don't want to miss a thing!"


Last but not least...if you're still in the "browsing mode"...visit our own little Party Store! We have some pretty great beach wedding decoration ideas too! You won't be disappointed.

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Thailand Public Holidays

January - Out of 24 holidays, only 14 are public holidays celebrated throughout the country. The first holiday  is New Years Day.  Although the traditional New Years celebration is  in April for the Songkran Festival, publicly it is celebrated on January 1st . Much like the New years' Times Square ball drop in New York City, the countdown for the new year in Bangkok, Thailand happens at their world trade center.

February – Like in the U.S. Valentine's Day is celebrated on February 14th. It is the one  day of the year where public displays of affection aren't frowned upon.

Makha Bucha is another public holiday that is celebrated at the end of February. This is a religious holiday to commemorate Buddha's speech given to 1250 people. So on the day of Makha Bucha, citizens gather at the temple for ceremonies and at night they walk around the temple three times with lit candles.

April – Celebrated on the 6th, the public holiday Chakri Day acknowledges the establishing of the Chakri Dynasty and King Bhumibol Adulyadej.(Rama IX ). April 13-15 is the public traditional New Years Day celebrated with the Songkran Festival . The people of Thailand spray water on the statues of Buddha and each other with the spiritual meaning of purification.

May – May 5th is Coronation Day to represent the ninth king, King Bhumibol Adulyadej's coronation.  The Royal Ploughing Ceremony on May 13th is presented in front of the king to bring good luck to the rice planting season. Visakha Bucha is a widely celebrated holiday to celebrate the birth of Buddha  and the enlightenment of Buddhas nirvana. People listen to Dharma and in the temple there is a candle lit procession around the statues of Buddha.

August – In August the Chinese Ghost Festival is on Sart Chin Day where the three realms of heaven, earth and hell open so the spirits can roam the Earth looking for food and entertainment. The citizens create food offering ceremonies and give out food and other items to people who need them most.

November – In November Loy Krathong is celebrated on the first full moon in November. Thai citizens buy or make krathongs which are banana tree boats with flowers and candles in the center. They then  float along a river or pond to wash away their sins.

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Help! How Can I Survive My Special Needs Child?

My friend Janet and her husband James are parents of six. Their fourth child has learning disabilities. This necessitates his learning in a Special Education school. Their fifth child is hyperactive and difficult to handle .When their second child was fifteen he was diagnosed as suffering from epilepsy. If this was not enough, James developed a heart condition. He requires constant monitoring. The doctor warned him – keep away from stress.
 
Great idea but how is it done.

Stress meets up with everyone at some point in life. Nobody is exempt from it. For the more fortunate its visits are rare. However for the parents of a special needs child it visits, without invitation, very frequently. How can we control it from disturbing our life when it does appear?
A professional might draw up a plan for you similar to:

• Take a course in relaxation.


• Take regular vacations


• Eat healthy food – cut out smoking.


• Get enough sleep.


• Exercise.

In a lot of cases this probably will reduce stress. However in a lot of situations, especially in a family with a special needs child or two, it just isn't practical. My friend Janice just doesn't have time to exercise, take vacations, and, oh, how she dreams to get enough sleep. To try to implement the above advice would make her more stressed than she already is.

However, my friend Janet is an amazing person. Despite all her challenges she smiles and is happy. She takes care of her family, and even finds time to help others.

Her unique personality is an encouragement to others in difficult situations. She is a one-man support system to all who know her; a power-house of positive energy and healthy self-esteem.
I once asked her for her secret. This is what she told me:

• It all depends on the attitude.
If you can do something to improve the situation – surely you should go ahead and try to improve it. If you think there is nothing you can do, you are making a mistake, there is something major you can do. Accept the situation. Make peace with it . Try and find the good in it.


• Become more caring and compassionate towards others undergoing challenges.. You can not imagine how much caring for others eases your own situation. I personally look for the time to volunteer to help people arrange funding for therapeutic services for special-needs children, among other things. This gives me immense pleasure and, when I see the challenges of others, I do not pity myself.


• Take each day as it comes.Don't brood over the past. Try not to worry about the future. Live in the present as much as possible


• Cherish your sense of humor and learn to laugh. I try to see the bright or funny side of everything. You will be pleasantly surprised how many humorous things you will find in difficult situations when you look for them. Remember, humor diffuses tension.


• Learn to love and respect EVERY child. They are all special and unique. When you realize and internalize this the children themselves, almost by osmosis, will have a good image of themselves. This is the basis of everything. With high self-esteem, they will be able to reach new heights –heights that were previously thought unattainable.


• Encourage and give support to others. When I encourage my family, I am actually also talking to myself. I constantly encourage myself in order to keep going.


• Keep busy. Even with all my responsibilities to my husband and children, I find time to be involved in other projects.

When I look at my friend Janice I simply marvel her; her strength of character, her love of life, and her coping powers. I wish her continued strength to continue to be an inspiration to all who meet her.

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