Most Common Reasons for Nose Job Surgery

I hope your weekend is winding down in a relaxing way. You guessed correctly that while I don't love my nose, I did not write this post (here's what I did with the money from it). I personally don't see myself getting surgery unless it was a medical necessity, but I've learned in my life to never say never.  I don't live in your skin, and you don't live in mine. We're free to be you and me, and to get the nose job or whatever if we need or want to. Peace. 
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We all have something that we feel as imperfect about our bodies. In most case, people wish they could adjust something about their faces, for instance, a double chin that makes our faces look sulky, unwanted wrinkles, or even droopy eyelids. If you have problems with the nose, then you are like many people out there. A nose job is one of the most requested corrective surgical procedures. You will learn later that people pursue this surgical procedure for varying reasons.

Rhinoplasty also referred to as a nose job, is a surgical procedure to adjust the shape of the nose or improve its function by changing the cartilage. Nose job surgery can be done for medical reasons such as correcting disfigurement caused by a birth defect or trauma, or as a treatment for breathing problems. Many people also do it for cosmetic reasons.

While there is no standard way of describing a perfect nose, a nose job surgery can put emphasis on your unique facial features that enhance your natural beauty. A doctor will assess the structure of your nose together with other facial features and discuss with you the various techniques are used to get the desired results. Rhinoplasty adjustments that the doctor can make on your nose include.

●        Adjusting the angle

●        Changing the size

●        Straightening the bridge

●        Widening or narrowing the nostrils

●        Reshaping the tip

Here are the 4 most common reasons for nose job surgery:

Repairing Broken Nose

Broken noses are fairly common than you can imagine. People with a displaced or broken nose can have it rectified through nose job surgery. The procedure should be done shortly after the damage because dislocated bones can settle into place. Rhinoplasty is appropriate to correct both the cosmetic abnormality and the functional aspects. Potential causes of injuries could be from a fall, car accident, or a sports injury.

Medical Reasons

Whilst many people may perceive nose job surgery as a cosmetic treatment, many patients pursue Rhinoplasty for medical purposes. Nasal obstructions such as a deviated septum can block one nostril thus, making breathing difficult. In most cases, people are born with this condition and may not have an idea until when the condition is severe.

Apart from the difficulty in breathing, a deviated septum can also cause allergies, obstructive apnea, severe sinus headache, and other sinus problems.

To eliminate the tissues causing blockage, a surgeon may carry out rhinoplasty. The process can also rectify cosmetic abnormality. Once the problem has been corrected, a patient will experience better breathing which will lead to a better quality of life.

Cosmetic Reasons

Sometimes we may notice shortcomings in our noses. They may appear asymmetrical while in other cases we may feel they are too small, big or too pointed. All this can be corrected through rhinoplasty.

When it comes to cosmetic corrections, rhinoplasty can be tailored to suit individual needs. Many patients approach surgeons for a nose job with a goal of improving their facial appearance.

Confidence and self-esteem are closely related to how we feel about our appearances. This could be attributed to the fact that beauty is often determined by our faces and body and the fact that society worship vitality and youth.

A subtle change to your nose shape can make a tremendous difference in your facial appearance. A plastic surgeon will not only improve the symmetry aspect of your nose but will also ensure that it looks harmonious with other facial features. The impact of your new appearance on your professional and social relations is priceless.

Here are some common nose features that may make you choose rhinoplasty.

A short nose

A nose that doesn’t project out enough can make your face appear flat, and this has an effect on your overall facial profile. Rhinoplasty can help to correct nasal bridge for a more appealing projection.

Overprojection

Overprojection has the opposite effects of short nose. Projecting too far from the face makes your nose appear larger and unbalanced with the rest of the face. To improve the projection, rhinoplasty shaves down the extra part. This may also involve shortening the tip of the nose. This procedure is carried out by removing cartilage on the tip.

Lumps and Bumps

Prominent lumps and bumps either on the bridge or on your nose can distort the balance of the nose. Nose job surgery is the ideal solution to restore the symmetry and improve the overall nasal profile.

Other potential problems that may require a nose job include the following.

●        Wide tip or bulbous - Irregular lower cartilaginous tip profile

●        Droopy tip - The nose tip hangs down when smiling

●        Wide dorsum - Broad nasal bridge

●        Deviated tip - Rotating nasal tip, a situation often associated with a deviated septum

●        Wide Nostril - Overly extensive nasal width

Rectifying Previous Surgery

Sometimes you may not be dissatisfied with the result of a nose job surgery. Fortunately, you can seek for re-correction to a more pleasing outcome. At New York Center for Facial, Plastic, and Laser Surgery, we understand the struggle of tolerating a face you don’t like. We will review the previous results and discuss with you necessary improvements to give a more desirable facial profile.

The nose you were born with, or the one that got deformed along the way doesn't have to be the one you will live with. If you are interested in nose reshaping or rhinoplasty in New York  or would like to talk to a specialist before making a decision, please reach out to The New York Center for Facial, Plastic, and Laser Surgery on (212) 570-2500. Dr. Andrew Jacono and team will help you improve your nasal profile. Dr. Jacono is a dual board certified Plastic and reconstructive surgeon with global authority in the field of facial surgery. He is often consulted by media and colleagues to offer expert opinion on matters facial plastic and reconstructive surgery.

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Can laser treatments control breakouts?

Wednesday, hey ohhh! I had terrible acne as a teen, both on my face and my chest. I did the accutane and the dermatologist and all that jazz. I still have some as an adult, so this was interesting to me. I hope it's interesting to you too.  As regular readers know, from time to time I will give space for things I do not write about from a personal point of view. This is one. 
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Acne is a challenging skin condition, one that causes physical discomfort and embarrassment. Even when the skin condition is treated effectively, it can leave unsightly scars and pits behind. The good news is that today, there are a variety of acne treatment options available.

Laser Treatments To Control Acne Breakouts

While laser treatments are often used to heal any discoloration and scars that acne has left behind, lasers can also be used to treat active breakouts. Laser acne treatments can be done on the face, back, neck and chest. Acne develops when bacteria builds up within and on the skin. This type of bacteria features a substance known as porphyrin. When the light from a laser comes into contact with porphyrin, it destroys the bacteria, decreasing or eliminating breakouts and pimples. Along with getting rid of surface pimples, lasers can also treat the noninflammatory kind in addition to severe cysts, lesions and nodules.

What Should You Expect from a Laser Treatment for Acne?

We know that for many people, lasers are intimidating, but keep in mind that today’s dermatology laser is usually a basic, hand-held device that your dermatologist or plastic surgeon just holds close to your skin. To see if a laser acne treatment will diminish or get rid of your skin affliction, consult with a cosmetic professional. If he or she suggests a course of treatment, prepare for it by asking whether you should continue to take any regular prescriptions or keep applying topical medication. You should cancel any chemical peel or waxing appointments that you may have.

During a laser acne treatment, you’ll likely feel a little bit of warmth on your skin, but the light from the laser is unlikely to cause you pain or discomfort. After the procedure, you may experience inflammation, which can be slightly uncomfortable, as well as skin peeling. Stay out of the sun for at least 48 hours and apply the topical treatment that your plastic surgeon prescribes. Following these steps provides the best possible results.

How Many Treatments Will You Need?

While the number of laser acne treatments recommended will be based on the type and scale of your outbreak, most cosmetic treatment professionals advise starting out with six treatments followed by touch-up treatments every two or three months. This type of plan generally helps people maintain a glowing complexion, one with little to no acne.

What You Should Know About the Results

When it comes to laser treatments for acne, it’s important to know that the results will vary from person to person. Currently, cosmetic experts are unable to predict just how well a laser will work to clear up an individual’s skin, but most studies show that lasers are able to help those who suffer from acne outbreaks.

Laser treatment for acne also takes time. Studies show that often, people see the best results following the last laser treatment. According to one study, those who received photodynamic therapy had 50 percent less spots by the end of a 4-week treatment period. Once they reached the 12-week mark, they had 72 percent fewer spots.

What are the Benefits of Laser Treatments for Acne?

The benefits of laser treatments for acne vary from offering a convenient treatment method to decreasing the production of oil in the skin. Acne laser treatments are particularly convenient because the procedure itself usually takes just 15 minutes. Lasers penetrate the skin to kill the bacteria that causes breakouts. The sebaceous gland generates an oil that protects hair and skin. However, in some people, this gland can be overactive, and when it is, it causes acne. Laser acne treatments often damage this gland, decreasing breakouts.

If you have acne scars, laser treatments can diminish the appearance of these scars. The treatment can also improve the smoothness and texture of your skin. Lasers decrease irregularities and inflammation in skin tone, and when you have a laser treatment, little to no recovery time is required. This type of treatment is extremely safe. Lasers used for acne treatment are designed to control the breakout of acne without damaging the skin.

Are You a Candidate for Laser Acne Treatments?

You are a candidate for laser acne treatments if you suffer from acne. This type of treatment is considered a new weapon in the fight against a common skin affliction. If your dermatologist has prescribed photosensitive drugs like Accutane to prevent acne from forming, then you may have to wait six months or so to have a laser acne treatment. Photosensitive drugs make your skin especially sensitive to light. Your cosmetic treatment provider will determine the safest time to start a laser acne treatment.

How Much Do Laser Treatments Cost?

The cost of laser acne treatment varies based on the type of lasers needed and the extensiveness of a treatment plan. You can expect to pay anywhere from $75 a treatment to $400. Most people require from 4 to 8 treatments to see clear skin. While most people’s insurance plans won’t cover laser treatment, payment plans may be available through the clinic, making the treatment more affordable.

Laser Treatments for Acne Look Promising

While more studies are needed, previous ones show that the future of using lasers to treat acne is promising since even people with severe cyst-type acne are seeing clear skin after laser treatments. Cyst acne is a tough one to treat. Currently, different types of lasers are need to treated different kinds of acne. So, a laser treatment for cyst acne is unlikely to work if blackheads are developing on your skin or traditional pimples. Because of this, it’s important to see a cosmetic specialist to determine the best course and type of laser acne treatment.

Offering Expertise

Highly respected and dedicated to excellence, Dr. Philip Schoenfeld is an acne laser treatment expert in Washington, DC. He is double certified in reconstructive surgery and otolaryngology, head and neck surgery. Dr. Schoenfeld earned his undergraduate degree from Hobart College, and he received his medical training from the New York Medical College. Several local and national publications have named him a “Top Doctor” while his honesty and dedication have resulted in patients flying from around the world for a consult. Visit his RENU practice at www.renudc.com for more information.

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I've done laser hair removal, but no laser treatments to treat leftover acne scars etc or active breakouts. You?

Treating stretch marks during mommy makeover

Did the title give the fact that I didn't write the post away? As regular readers know, from time to time I will give space for things I do not write about from a personal point of view. This is one. Happy Wednesday!
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There's nothing better in life than bringing another human being into this world and watching him or her grow into the person they'll be the rest of their lives. But being a mommy comes with a little wear and tear that might not come to mind when you first hear that you're pregnant. Like wrinkles, saggy skin, stretch marks, and sagging breasts.

Perhaps that's why mommy makeovers have become so popular. They allow mommies everywhere to feel and look great. You're proud of your kids, and now they can be proud of you, too!

While we'll be focusing on getting rid of unwanted stretch marks, we'll also be recommending some additional procedures that can really take your mommy makeover from cool to wow!

Drink Plenty of Water

Water is your skin's best friend. It helps to keep it looking healthy and moisturized, as well as improves elasticity (thusly helping with wrinkles and fine lines) and can help keep your skin healthier and therefore more free of acne! But how does this help with stretch marks? True, it won't chase them away, but it will help to reduce their appearance and leave your skin looking fabulous.

Cocoa Butter & Lotions

Cocoa butter has long since been marketed to pregnant women to help reduce stretch marks. But lotions - especially cocoa and coconut-based lotions - will all help to keep your skin hydrated, leading to a reduction in visibility of stretch marks. Any hydration-rich, moisture-lock lotion will help with treat stretch marks.

Essential Oils

There are many essential oils out there that can help reduce the look of stretch marks. Some of the most popular essential oils to help treat stretch marks are Helichrysum oil (also known as everlasting oil), castor oil, rosehip oil, patchouli oil, sage oil, neroli oil, and lavender oil. Of course, you should always consult with your doctor before you try out essential oils. Especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Be cautious and avoid essential oils that are derived from plants you're allergic to.

Skin Procedures

Currently, the only way to treat stretch marks surgically is with abdominoplasty, or "tummy tucks". It's a great and effective way to immediately ditch the stretch marks. And when you get a great doctor, you get a great experience. A great practice will also typically allow for financing, making the experience even more enjoyable and stress-free.

Complete the New Look

Getting rid of those pesky stretch marks doesn't have to be the end of your mommy makeover. While you're hitting up your mommy makeover wishlist, go big! After all, these aren't things you have to do all at once (although you can likely pair up a lot of them to save yourself some time!) Go ahead and treat yourself with the same TLC you show your kiddos and spouse with these awesome "add-ons"!

- A fresh new haircut can do wonders. It gives you a whole new look without having to do much else. You can pencil it in at your convenience and it can help you ditch the dreaded mom bun! Be happy to fix your hair up. It's not an annoyance, it's a way to show off your personal flair!

- Treat yourself to a paraffin wax mani-pedi. This leaves your hands and feet feeling absolutely amazing. It's also a relatively cheap way to feel great, as it won't cost you very much at all. Follow it up with some deep tissue massage and you're sure to feel like a million bucks, even though you won't spend even a fraction of that.

- While you're getting your mani-pedi on, opt for the semi-permanent makeup treatment. This will save you extra time in the mornings and before date nights. You'll look put together longer and with less effort - so you can still chase after those little pitter patters and look amazing!

- Breast augmentations are a great way to recapture that pre-baby body, or get the body you've always wanted to have. It can help you gain a level of confidence you might never have thought possible. You've ditched the stretch marks, now you can enhance your bust line.

- Lastly, a newer procedure can give you that bikini-ready look permanently. Brazilian butt enhancements can give you that complete hot mommy look even when you don't have the time to hit the gym!

Double board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Jason I. Altman, MD have  performed many plastic surgeries including breast augmentation, Brazilian butt enhancement and tummy tuck in Chicago, IL and also in New York. Dr. Altman and his partner Dr. Ghersi opened Doctors Plastic Surgery to provide patients the absolute best cosmetic surgery experience. Discover which mommy makeover procedures best suit you - visit website today at https://www.doctorsplasticsurgery.com.

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Moms, have you done any of these? Moms to be, considering any?

How can you hide a water tank in your property?

One of the things I love about shore towns like Ocean City is how they hide utility stuff outside. They turn it into art. Here's an article from Jesse in Australia on how you might hide a water tank on your personal property.

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Having an outdoor water tank can be a very environmentally-friendly idea, or even a necessity in drier climates that rely on harvested rain for watering the garden. Unfortunately, they're not always that attractive.

A few tips on "hiding" your water tank can help improve the look of your yard. Whether you just make a couple small touch-ups, or start a larger renovation to bury the tank (you'll want to get a utility locating service to help before you dig), you can turn that eyesore into a lovely focal point.

Placement

First of all, could the tank be placed in a less obvious location? With a little additional eaves trough, hose or pipe, you may be able to extend your supply line a little farther, which would allow you to place the tank around a corner where it's not as visible. Don't assume that they always need to be placed directly under your existing downspouts.

Camouflage Coloring

Most tanks are some sort of neutral color, or just plain unfinished sheet metal. If you have a dark home that is a particular color, that can make the tank stand out like a sore thumb. A couple coats of matching paint and that tank will blend in in no time.

Another option involving paint is to actually make it more visible but also more attractive with some colorful paint. If you have some artistic skill, think of your tank as an outdoor canvas and create some art.

Cover Ups

Now here are a few suggestions on how to literally hide or block your tank from view. One of the simplest options is to plant a few shrubs around the tank to create a hedge to block its view. You may need a little patience with this approach unless you buy plants that are already large enough to do the job. Otherwise, it can take a few years to have a decent screen in place. Certain plants do grow faster than others, so chose accordingly.

If you would rather build something for a more immediate result, you can start to get creative. Fencing, lattice and even tall planters are all materials that work well in building a perfect tank screen that would blend in with the rest of your landscape decor.

Bury It

A standard water tank should not be completely buried because the tank walls are not designed to withstand the pressures from the outside. But you can get away with dropping the tank down a couple of feet below the surface, which can significantly reduce its visual impact. Of course, if the base of the tank is below ground, that can get in the way of using a spigot of tap that is set at the bottom of the tank. You'll have to judge for yourself if this is an option that would help in your situation.

So if you are unhappy with the look of your water tank, or have even avoided getting one because they are unattractive, there are lots of ways you can make it "disappear" in your yard. 

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Do you have an outdoor water tank? 

How to organize your recipe collection for greater efficiency in the kitchen

Image via Amazon

As the saying goes, a Sunday well spent brings a week of content. My Sundays are usually filled with a little bit of organizing. Over the years, I've tried many different methods of organizing recipes, including all of the ones listed below.

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The old proverb about not being able to find something when you need it the most is something that all of us have found to be true at some point in our lives or the other. However, if you are a cooking enthusiast, you may find that recipes are particularly good in hiding when you are looking for them! The only way to remedy the situation is, of course, organization. Here are a few tips that will help you do just that.

Traditional Bookmarking

If the recipe is in a book that you own, simply bookmark it. Admittedly, bookmarking multiple pages in a cookbook can get a bit confusing, but it’s still better than having to go through the entire volume to find that one recipe which you need right now. Some bookmarks come in multiple colors as well, so take advantage of the color coding and mark the recipes according to your preference or on the basis of whether or not you have already tried them.

Online Bookmarking

Websites and blogs are excellent sources of new recipes and if you have come across one, simply bookmark it on the browser of your tablet or phone. In this way, you will be able to access it whenever and wherever you need to.

Make Labels

If you are anything like me, then you will probably have a whole lot of handwritten recipes, clipped pages, and cookbooks that have been collected over the years. Some of those culinary treasures are really rare and they became even rarer to find on the days I needed them. I was mostly responsible for the situation though as the single large box I kept them all in was a nightmare to sort through when in a hurry. Since then, I have started to sort them into different boxes, on the basis of their importance, origin, and other factors. I used some Dymo Shipping Labels that I had left from my last sale on eBay for labeling the boxes and before you know it, things weren’t such a mess anymore.

Print Out Your Own Cookbook

An excellent way to organize all your online recipes in a tangible and accessible format is to print them out and bind them together. This way, you will have your own personal cookbook at your disposal. In order to make the customized printed out cookbook more organized you can add page numbers, a separate content page at the beginning and dedicated chapters or sections in between the recipes.

Scan the Recipes in

If you feel that you have more paper than you can handle, you can scan the pages that you need and save them onto the cloud. You will be able to free out some space without losing the recipes that you treasure so much. Once it’s on the cloud, your data is safe from even a hard drive crash.

These five tips helped me to organize my messy recipe collection into something that I can manage easily and with efficiency.  It may take you some time to get all of this done, but the effort will be worth it once you have everything sorted out.

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Currently I'm using a combo of a binder that I'm trying to cook my way through and share with you so I can store the recipes all on this blog. How are you organizing yours?

How to create a luxury bedroom on a budget

Enjoy this photo of a NON-luxury bedroom. Caution: changes in progress

No, that is not a luxury bedroom pictured above. None of my bedrooms are luxury bedrooms. I'm not really a luxury person. I've pretty much done everything at home and at the shore on a budget. I've loved doing it more at the shore so that house is in much better shape than my house at home right now, but I digress...the fact is that you can get a luxury feel for less.

This year at the shore I tackled the top two bedrooms on the third floor. Aside from changing bedding and some art and trim paint last year, they remained untouched. I wanted a face lift without spending a lot. I relied on paint, contact paper, some fresh bedding and art, new cheap matching end tables, new lighting, and a new mirror. We looked into getting vinyl flooring but are settling for getting the carpet replaced - we are unable to get the stains out of the current one. Both rooms up there look fresh and I'm so pleased with how they're progressing - I'll share pics after the new carpet is installed and everything is put back on the walls later this month. They're not luxury by any means, but they're coming along nicely.

But back to the topic at hand...how to create a luxury bedroom on a budget.

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If you’ve got kids your bedroom is probably the only area in your home that’s still yours. Free of toys and children’s clutter, it’s a place for you to rest and relax. That means it’s incredibly important to create a relaxing, luxurious space. However, most of your money is probably spent on the kids, so you might be working on a budget. Here are my top tips for creating a luxury bedroom without breaking the bank.

Art
Art is a great way to add luxury to any space. Framed prints can look just as good as originals at a fraction of the price. A large feature piece hanging above the bed could be the first thing you see, welcoming you into the room.

Lighting
You can add some glamor to your main ceiling light by using a large, intricate light shade and installing a dimmer switch. To add further romance and luxury to your room, include lamps, string lights or lanterns. Lighting is a wonderful way to change the mood of a room, so make sure you give yourself options.

Mirrors
Mirrors are exceptionally glamorous and can also be very effective when it comes to making a smaller space look larger. Adding a large mirror to a wall or dressing table can add a new level of depth to your room and change its focus.

Floor
Wooden floors with thick, soft rugs look luxurious and feel fantastic under your feet first thing in the morning. Wooden flooring isn’t as expensive as it used to be and there are many different options when it comes to rugs. If this is still coming up over your budget, hire a carpet cleaner and make sure your existing flooring looks its best.

Restore
Instead of buying new furniture, either upcycle what you’ve got or restore antique and second-hand pieces. Upcycling is incredibly popular now so there are lots of brilliant ideas out there. Spend some time cleaning up, painting, and varnishing existing furniture. You could even repurpose it into something completely new.

Declutter
There is nothing less luxurious than clutter and mess. Having a cluttered and untidy bedroom can lead to trips and falls and increase stress. It can even affect your sleep. Not what you want in a relaxing bedroom space. Spend some time going through your bedroom throwing away or donating what you don’t need and finding homes for everything else. When it comes to decluttering, better organization is essential. Things like DIY drawer organizers can effectively help you fit more into the same space.

Accessories
To create a calming, luxury bedroom, you need to make it look comfortable. Stack throw cushions on your bed, include extra seating if you have space, and make sure extra throws or blankets are to hand when you need them.

While decorating can be very expensive, it doesn’t have to be. There are a lot of small, cheap changes you can make without spending a fortune. Experiment with some different ideas to find what works for you, reflecting your personality and meeting your needs.

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It really is about the little touches, which are typically inexpensive. And the cheapest of all things - decluttering - is free. Aside from paint, that is the absolute best, fastest, and cheapest way to change how a room looks and feels. 

My tiles are starting to buckle and pop up. How do I put them back?

Info I wish I had when some hoodoo voodoo happened in my bathroom and a mirror fell and knocked off some tile pieces that I then sloppily replaced. Info I hope you never need from Jesse in Australia.

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Tiles buckling and popping -what can be done?

Tiles that have buckled and popped look unsightly and you need to resolve the problem as soon as possible. As soon as you notice there is an issue, you should deal with it. If you do not do so, the problem will only worsen.

The aim of this article is to examine why tiles begin to buckle and pop in the first place. We are also going to give you some advice about you should do when this happens.

What causes tiles to buckle and pop?

One of the biggest causes of problems with tiles is if they were not installed using a flexible adhesive in the first place. Buildings naturally move over time, and if tiles are installed using a non-flexible adhesive they pop and buckle with the strain of movement.

Problems can also occur, if there are changes in heat or humidity levels in your home. Once a problem occurs with one tile, the whole area is likely to be affected. This is why it’s important to address the problem as soon as possible. If the tiles were installed by a tradesman, you should contact them to deal with the situation. If this is not the case, or you do not know who installed the tiles, you may want to try and resolve the issue yourself.

What can you do when tiles buckle and pop?

If the tiles you are having a problem with were installed using a flexible adhesive, and if the problem appears to be limited, you may be able to deal with it by cutting expansion joints. This involves cutting a strip of around 6mm from the edge of the tile, including the adhesive. You then need to insert silicone into the gap. This solution is not guaranteed to work, but it may be worth trying.

The best option is to remove the area of tiling and re-install it. You should make sure that you use recommended tiling procedures, including the use of a flexible adhesive. This is a longer, and more complicated, task than simply replacing affected tiles. But, it’s the only guaranteed way of making sure that the problem does not continue to occur.

Why asking for professional help might be a good idea

Tiling is one of those jobs that is more complicated than it seems. If you are having a problem with the tiling in your home, you need to make sure it’s solved effectively. You can use the information we have provided, to help you do the work yourself. If you do not feel comfortable enough to do this, or you have problems once you start, it may be worthwhile speaking to a tiling expert.

The experts have access to commercial building products which they can use to carry out a professional tiling job. This means that the tiled surface you have issues with can be restored to good condition. If the job is completed in an expert manner you should have no more problems with popping and buckling. 

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Have you ever had to deal with tile issues? 

4 Strategies to Start Family Camping Traditions

Happy Sunday friends! In keeping with my tradition, I am either accepting of posts from others because a) I think you'd like them, or I myself like them or b) it's something I typically don't cover in my own writings. This one...let's put it this way...I buy a zillion fleece jackets from Cabela's, but the person who actually uses Cabela's for their outdoor gear in my house is MFD. He is a huge fan of camping, which is something he does with his friends. I've only been once. I keep threatening to go again, and stranger things have happened, but that ship may have sailed. Anyway hope you enjoy. 

In a recent survey by Kampgrounds of America (KOA), nearly half of respondents from various backgrounds and races strongly agree that camping is a time just to relax and not feel they have to be somewhere or do something. Respondents also agreed that camping is a great way to escape the stress of everyday life, and that it provides an affordable vacation option.

Turn your next camping trip into a family tradition by adding your own personal touches and fun. Whether you want to go geocaching or make s’mores around a campfire, your kids will look fondly on your family camping trips for years to come.

Start Prepping

A successful camping trip takes some time and preparation to put together. Load up the kids in the car and head out to your favorite outdoor recreation retailer to get ideas on what type of camping trip you want to create. For example, will you need a separate tent for the kids, or opt for an over-sized tent big enough for the whole family?

You can also ask about special equipment if you want to include fishing or hiking as part of your camping experience. For a splurge, let the kids pick out a new outdoor item like a special weatherproof jacket or lantern for the campground that they can enjoy during the excursion.

Find Family Balance

Not all families have the same idea about a camping trip. Mom and Dad may want to recreate their old-fashioned traditions from decades ago. Meanwhile, kids may want to plug-in their devices and enjoy some gaming and music before exploring the area. Their idea of getting in touch with nature may be snapping digital photos of the epic scenery instead of identifying leaves and plants along a trail.

Balance the differing opinions and preferences of your family. Ask kids to turn off their devices during a cook-out or while making gooey s’mores. But ask them to grab their smartphones or tablets to indulge in an inspired geocaching game. A site like Geocaching.com can help you find a geocache adventure with treasures and landmarks along the way. If you can’t come up with a suitable option, see what’s going on with Pokemon Go. You may find hidden Pokemon right in your campground!

Make Mealtime Fun

Stocking up on protein bars is fine for snacks and a single meal, but feeding your family at a campground should be a fun and memorable experience. Tell the kids to bring their favorite noisemakers or instruments like harmonicas to set the mood while you prepare dinner. Cook up a fresh catch of fish or bring along easy to make meal options, whether boiling a pot of water and making pasta over an open fire or grilling burgers and hot dogs.

Remember, part of the fun of camping is meeting other people from all walks of life. Once the music starts up, don’t be surprised if someone wanders over with their guitar or an amazing voice to lend to the entertainment.

Turn Disasters into Fond Memories

It’s inevitable something will go wrong on your camping trip. Weather and wildlife don’t always comply with your plans. If you get stuck in a downpour, turn it into a family bonding experience by huddling together inside your tent telling ghost stories. Or if you wake up and find a furry friend munching on your breakfast, take a few photos to post on social media and head out to catch your own breakfast or look for fresh berries that you know are safe and edible.

Give your kids the tools and context to handle mishaps. Let them know, while it might be frustrating, it just gives your family an opportunity to try something new and problem solve together. After all, the whole point of a family camping tradition is to bond and grow together. Figuring out how to salvage the tent that a critter just ate through is one good way to do that.

Halloween has gone to the dogs

An octopus, a shark, and a lobster walk onto the beach...stop me if you've heard this one.

The lobster (Gus) hated it but the octopus (Geege) and the shark (Mae) are resigned to costumes on Halloween.

I can't help it, I laugh myself silly when they're dressed up. But I know it's not their favorite. Their favorite is food, and lots of pets and rubs and running wild and free are a distant second and third.

So putting up with my insanity is not without reward for these dogs. After dress up day, I bribed them to love me again with the new Filet Mignon & Bacon Flavored Pup-peroni treats the folks there were nice enough to send los perros for them to try, gratis, in exchange for me writing a post about it.

Did they like them? Look at Mae's tail going a million miles an hour. Look at Gus and Geege staring at the bag in the second photo like they've got the eye of the tiger. They're dogs, and the treats are filet and bacon flavored...of course they liked them.That's like asking if humans like chips or ice cream. Everyone likes a treat every once in a while.

My dogs like what I like, and since choice steak and bacon are high on my list, these treats were high on theirs. These dogs have barely any teeth left so while I prefer the Isle of Dogs treats on a daily basis, these soft, chewy treats are great for treat days we all deserve.

To learn more about these treats, click here.

Speaking of treats, I hope you get a lot of them today for Halloween, even if you have to dress up like a fool to get them.

I am traveling and will reply to comments when I return. Thanks for stopping by!

The Different Types of Yarn Along with their Uses

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When I was a little girl, Mom-Mom taught me how to crochet. I could do it, and we did it together, but I never kept up with it and I lost that skill. I so wish I had maintained it. Thanks to my friend Jessie Hughes for this post covering a topic I cannot cover myself!

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When you decide to take up knitting or crocheting as a hobby, it can be a little overwhelming to try and figure out what all the different types of yarns are, and what you should be using them for. This guide has been designed to get you started:

Lace

This is the thinnest yarn, and is to be used with the smallest crochet hooks and knitting needles. It is sometimes referred to as fingering yarn or crochet 10 count thread. It’s used with a 1.5 to 2.25 mm crochet needle, or 000 to 1 knitting needle range.

Super Fine

This is also referred to as sock yarn, fingering, or baby yarn, and is used with 2.25 to 3.25 mm crochet needle, or a 1 to 3 knitting needle range.

Fine

This is sometimes known as sport yarn or baby yarn. It’s used with a 3.25 to 3.75 mm crochet needle, or 3 to 5 knitting needle range.

Light

Also known as DK or light worsted yarn. It’s used with a 3.75 to 4.5 mm crochet needle, or 5 to 7 knitting needle range.

Medium

This is called worsted, Afghan, or Aran yarn. It’s used with a 4.5 to 5.5 mm crochet needle, or 7 to 9 knitting needle range.

Bulky

This is sometimes known as chunky, craft, or rug yarn. It’s used with a 5.5 to 8 mm crochet needle, or 9 to 11 knitting needle range.

Super Bulky

This is the thickest yarn available, and is also referred to as bulky or roving yarn. It’s used with a 8 to 12.75 mm crochet needle, or 11 to 17 knitting needle range. There is some materials that are thicker, and that use bigger needles, but the ones listed are the most commonly available.

For more help on this, check out the Craft Yarn Council website for full details. There is also a more detailed look at the varieties of yarn at Dummies.com. This website goes into greater detail about the different types of wool, fleece, and novelty materials.  

The lighter yarns are often used to create clothing and home ware items, whereas the thinker yarn is for toys and knitwear jumpers, but of course the choice is up to you. The beauty of knitting is that you can be as creative as you like – there are no restrictions.

A lot of websites have been designed to help out beginners, by suggesting the correct yarn and needle size along with each pattern. They are a good place to get started until you understand what you’re doing yourself, and you can make your own judgments. Knitting is a hobby that you need a little time to get used to before you can start going too wild – practice makes perfect!

For more information on terminology used for yarn, check out the Soft Textile Glossary – the more you learn about the correct language used, the easier buying the correct yarn will be.

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Do you knit or crochet? What type of yarn do you use most often?

Fun Ways to Introduce Other Cultures to Your Children

When people approach me about sharing articles in my blog space, I don't say yes to every opportunity that comes along. . I am not big into writing about or accepting writing about things like tampons for any amount of dollars. I do accept articles that cover topics that I don't because I think that's an interesting supplement. Like this one:

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Exposing your children to the many different cultures that are found throughout the world will make them well-rounded individuals who have a true appreciation for people all over the planet, not just in their home country. To make the experience of learning about other cultures more fun for your kids, though, you should follow the helpful tips and strategies below.

Explore Different Religions

Every religion has something unique to offer; yet all religions have the common theme of loving yourself and loving those around you equally. By exposing your children to the many different religious teachings from around the world, you can prove to them that everyone basically holds to the same hopes and values, but they express them differently and follow different scriptures or deities. You can study everything from Buddhism to Christianity on sites like Deily, and you can allow your kids to determine which religion they connect with most, rather than forcing them to believe in what you believe.

Indulge in the Delicious Cuisines of Different Cultures

One of the best and most fun ways to dive into a different culture is by indulging in its food. You can actually learn a lot about a culture by sampling its most beloved dishes, so make it a point to research some recipes that you can make at home, and find local restaurants that are family owned and operated and are serving up authentic cuisine. You may be surprised by how different yet delicious the flavors are, and your kids may find that their favorite dishes aren’t their own culture’s recipes after all.

Get a Map

The simple act of printing out a world map is a great way to show your kids where different countries are located and where different cultures come from. You can incorporate these lessons into your other strategies. For example, on a night during which you will be having Indian cuisine for dinner, you can take the map out and show your kids where India is located.

Visit Museums

Yet another fun way to teach your kids about different cultures from around the world is by taking them to a museum. You can go to a natural history museum that will focus on the evolution of various cultures from across the globe, or you can visit museums that are dedicated specifically to a single culture, such as the Native American culture. Museums are highly educational, and they provide parents with a host of resources that they can use to teach their kids more about diversity and global cultures. So go ahead and plan a day at the museum and visit all of the exhibits that will expose your kids to the artwork and history of people from other countries.

These are just a few of the many fun ways that you can teach your kids about other cultures from other parts of the world. Of course, you want to also teach them about your own heritage and its culture, but this is a fantastic way to raise kids who will embrace diversity.

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Parents, how do you teach your kids about other cultures?

And a happiest of birthdays to one of my favorites, Jill.