Turn a pumpkin into a jack o lantern

Halloween is one of the most popular holidays in the United States. Part of the fun of the season is choosing just the perfect pumpkin. This can be done at a farm stand or in a field where you choose your own. While a pumpkin is a fine decoration, it cannot compare to a jack-o-lantern. This is an age of tradition of carving a face into the pumpkin. It is quite an art form. While no two are ever identical, it is the pumpkin itself that determines its personality. With some simple steps, you will have no trouble turning a pumpkin into a jack-o-lantern.

Choose a pumpkin

There are two distinctive schools of thought when it comes to choosing the perfect pumpkin. Some people think that short and round is the perfect shape while others prefer and taller more lean appearance. The basic shape of the pumpkin will lend itself to what type of face suits it best. One thing that you do need, no matter what shape you prefer is a flat bottom. You want your jack-o-lantern to sit flat on the steep or table which will be its home on Halloween.

Take off the top

Now that you have chosen the perfect pumpkin you need to remove the stem. When you do this you create a top that will lift off of the pumpkin so that you can get to the inside to remove the pulp and seeds. Choose a spot on the top of the pumpkin and with a sharp knife insert it into the skin. You can draw a square on the top and just keep making small incision until you have gotten all the way around or you can do it freehand. Whatever you are comfortable with.

Scooping out the inside

Once the top has been safely removed you need a large spoon to scoop out the seeds and pulp that is inside. The seeds are edible and make a very tasty snack. If you plan to roast them, have a baking sheet ready. You can wash the seeds and throw out the pulp. Add a little salt and olive oil to the seeds and place them in the oven at 300 degrees for 20 minutes.

Carving

Now the most important part, the carving of the face. You can purchase a carving kit it will have all the tools you need or if you prefer a more personal approach then use a kitchen knife and go freehand. You may want to draw a face on the pumpkin or you can buy a pattern. Start small, maybe an eye. Insert the knife into the pumpkin, this will take a little bit of strength and a sharp knife. Make sure the second cut overlaps the first and so on until you can push the piece that is now the eye, into the pumpkin.

Continue with the other eye and then the nose which is usually an upside down triangle. The most import feature is the mouth and teeth. You also have to decide if you want a happy face or a scary face. You can make the face as complex or as simple as you want. Every opening you make will be showing the light that you place inside so the more openings the more light that will be reflected.

If children are going to be carving they need to be supervised since it takes sharp knives and lots of pushing to get good results.

You can use real candles inside of the jack-o-lantern or use using battery operated lights. The good thing about the batteries is that they last longer and you can light the pumpkin for several days before or after Halloween.

You are now ready to celebrate Halloween with your family, friends, and neighbors. All that is needed is the trick or treaters.

Timeless fashion accessories

A timeless accessory is one that is as fashionable today as it was 10 years ago and will be in ten years from today. As the fashion icon, Coco Chanel once said "Fashion changes, but style endures.” A timeless accessory is one that is always in style.

Pearl necklace

A pearl necklace is an accessory that never loses its enduring value. It is a fashion investment. If you are not in a position to invest in real pearls, there are very attractive costume pearls or for a moderate price, freshwater pearls are available. The most iconic color is creamy white, but they are also available in black and some pastel shades.

You can opt for a choker, a single pearl on a chain or a long chain of pearls that can be wrapped around the neck several times. The fashion of the "Roaring Twenties" is hot at this particular time and a very long pearl necklace fits right in with that style. By opting for a clasp of sterling silver instead of gold, you can also keep the price more affordable.

Designer scarf

Another fashion investment is a designer scarf. Hermes is one of the most timeless; however, it is not within the price range of everyone. There are many other designers who offer great classic, timeless scarves that can be found at stores such as TJMaxx for a fraction of their retail price.

Try to choose a pattern or color that is not too trendy. This year’s trend may be next year’s flop. Take a good look in your closet and decide what color or colors would fit in with what you already own. If your clothing tends to be mostly navy or black, a white or red scarf would be a nice addition.

Black clutch

Every woman needs to own a simple but classic black clutch purse. For any dressy occasion from a wedding to a cocktail party, the clutch is a must. Depending on your lifestyle, you can spend a lot or a little. Look for one with a unique detail that takes it above the rest; a special clasp is one option.

Classic pump

A good pair of high heels is an important accessory that can take a woman from the boardroom to the bedroom. Black is the most classic color and most wardrobes will include at least one pair. If you just are not a high heel woman, the classic black ballet flat is another option that is timeless.

Watch

These days, many women don’t need a watch to tell time; the smartphone is perfect for that. However, a beautiful watch is a great accessory and can take the place of a bracelet. For a timeless look, choose a smaller face, but silver, leather or gold are all classic choices.

Sunglasses

Who can forget Jackie O and her wonderful large sunglasses? It was a signature look for her and is just as timeless today. Tortoiseshell is a timeless look, but you may opt for another color that suits your personal style better.

Large Purse

For every day, most women carry a large carryall purse that can go from work to a night out or a day at the beach. If leather is out of the question, there are many other materials available, but leather usually wears the best so think of this as an investment in years of style.

Timeless accessories will stand the test of time and should be considered an investment. Buy the best quality that you can afford and your investment will provide years of enjoyment and style.

Celebrity fashion icons

Celebrities have a profound effect on fashion whether they want to or not. What they chose to wear is copied by fans both young and old, and this is nothing new. It has been going on for hundreds of years. Over the last 50 years, there have been some major fashion icons whose style has been copied by their devoted fans, including Jacqueline Kennedy, who influenced an entire generation of women and in more recent times, Diana Princess of Wales. Not all celebs are from show business as these two women prove.

Jennifer Aniston

When Jennifer Aniston took the role of Rachel Green on “Friends”, little did she know that she would become a fashion and style icon. Who knew that women the world over would slavishly copy her hairstyle and great fashion sense? The good news is that Jen almost never makes a misstep and there are certainly few people who are always as well dressed and put together as she is. She is never ostentatious; she chooses styles that suit her figure and are appropriate for the occasion. She doesn’t hide behind her clothes -- she is the canvas and she always stands out.

Katherine, Duchess of Cambridge

When Kate became engaged to Prince William of England, she was immediately thrust into the limelight and her fashion was closely scrutinized. It was noticed that she favored British designers and was not opposed to re-wearing an outfit. In the hard economic times that have hit Europe, this is a very popular trend. Her clothes have caused a sensation and whenever she comes out with a new dress, they fly off the racks. She dresses with style and has the perfect body to showcase a variety of looks, all tasteful.

Victoria Beckham

Since her early days as Posh Spice, Victoria has always had a great sense of style and now she finally can give her fans exactly what they want: her clothes. Her clothing line, which is designed with the modern woman in mind -- modern and very slim, that is affordable and reflects Victoria’s personal taste and style

Gwyneth Paltrow
Gwyneth has a very classic style that is understated but can certainly be glammed up for an evening on the red carpet. She has been a style icon for over 15 years and has shown that it is possible to be red hot and sexy without being trashy. Nobody wears a clinging gown on their very slim figure in a more glamorous way than Gwyneth. Now that she is a mother, her day clothes are a bit more practical but just as stylish, and she still shines when she is out on the town. With her great legs, it is not unusual to see her in a mini skirt or dress.

These are four of the positive celebrity fashion icons that are worth following. There are many others, especially among the young crop of Hollywood stars who are showing great promise of becoming the future celebrity fashion icons.

Choosing clothes that flatter your skin tone

Skin tones are defined in terms of the season. You are either a winter, a spring, a summer or an autumn. It is important to know the season of your skin tone. Different skin tones are flattered by different colors. Choosing clothes that flatter your skin tone helps you look your best.

It is always a good idea if possible, to have your color analysis done at a store or salon and by more than one person if possible. If this isn’t possible, you can try doing it yourself. I had mine done at Pelton's years ago, as ou may well imagine, I have no clue what she told me lol. 

Wash your face so that you have no makeup and then look at your skin in natural light. You might even want to hold a white piece of paper next to your face so that you have a clear indication of the undertone in your skin. You can also look at the inside of your wrist. Take a good look at your veins, do they look blue or more green. If blue then you are cool if green warm. 

Winter is a cool tone and most often seen on African American and Asians though it can also be seen in blonds, with white blond natural hair. Most often eye color in winters is dark. Winters have great depth of color and lots of contrast. If you are a winter you look best in rich colors. In dark colors, jewel tones are best, think ruby and sapphire and in lighter colors, go intense. Neural and bland colors will make you look just that so avoid them.

Summer is also a cool tone, almost to the point of icy. Summers are usually natural blonds but there are summers who have dark brown hair with very light skin. Summers almost always have light colored eyes. Summers have little contrast between their skin, eyes, and hair. The best colors are soft colors, neutrals such as camel and light gray and pastels especially blue are best. Muted is the way to go. Overly vivid or bright tones will wash away your looks and overpower your coloring.

Spring is a warm tone. You are best described as a subtle golden girl with definite undertones of gold to the skin. Often hair color is golden blond, golden brown or reddish blond. Eyes are blues and greens but not a vivid green, more of a blue-green. The complexion can have a rosy glow and freckles are not uncommon.

Springs look great in soft colors such as peach or in clear colors such as a bright true red. Avoid black and white, they usually are not flattering. Much better to choose colors that have a golden undertone such as browns and greens.

Autumn is a warm tone. You are truly the golden girls. Hair color is dark brown or red. Eye color is often golden brown or green. Rich colors are the most flattering with your coloration. The wonderful colors of fall are perfect, the browns, golds, and oranges will bring this skin tone to life. Pastels and especially light blues do not tend to flatter and stark white and black can wash you out.

Many people are more than one season. Once you have identified your predominate season you can experiment with the ones that may be close or slightly correct. Most people can tell when they try on a color whether it flatters but if not, ask a trusted friend or your mother for an honest answer. If a color makes you feel amazing, it is right for you. I have decided that I am an autumn, and I choose my colors accordingly. 

Natural ways to help your digestion

Most people don’t think much about their digestive system until it is not working correctly. By then it is often too late. The best course of action is to try to keep your digestive system healthy and happy. There are many ways that you can boost your digestive system naturally. Here are a few tips that can help you to keep things moving the way that they should.

Eating

The key to giving your digestive system a boost is to eat well, including plenty of fiber and good fats, exercise moderately to keep your muscles strong so that they are in condition to help the food move through your body and avoiding harmful things such as smoking and lots of junk food. There are a few additional items that can really go a long way toward boosting your digestive system.

Enzymes

Enzymes are an important part of the entire digestive system. Some of the enzymes that are used in digestion are produced by the bacteria in the bowel. Humans do not produce the enzymes that break down much of the fiber in vegetables and fruit. In order to get the maximum nutritional value from the things you eat, you need to have the correct enzymes. 

Enzymes are present from the beginning to the end of the digestive process starting with the saliva in your mouth which works on carbohydrates.

Stomach acid works mostly on proteins. Some foods you eat can help the process. Since protein stimulates the production of stomach acid, try to have some protein with every meal. Chew food well and drink enough when you are eating. These all help digestion go smoothly. 

Adding sauerkraut to your diet can help to boost the digestive system. It should be unpasteurized so that all the bacteria have not been killed. This is a simple and good tasting way to help yourself to enjoy better health. Many enzymes which occurred naturally in food are destroyed through the cooking process. By adding more fiber-rich foods and eating them in the natural state, you boost your digestive system immensely.

Bacteria

Bacteria is present in the digestive system. These are called friendly bacteria and according to Kathryn Senior Ph.D., they are mostly located in the lower digestive system due to the presence of stomach acid, which is quite strong, in the upper digestive areas. The bacteria in the bowel is believed to create a coating on itself to protect it from the enzymes in the bowl. This way they are not flushed out with the rest of the waste.

A disruption in this bacteria can lead to issue with digestion. This has led to a whole new sales pitch for manufacturers of yogurt. Yogurt can be used as a way to get these friendly bacteria back into your system. It is important however that you check the label of the yogurt to make sure that it has live culture. Adding one yogurt to your daily routine may just be the answer you are looking for. It is an easy and delicious way to add safe bacteria to your digestive system.

You can go to a natural food store and get bacteria and the enzymes in the form of pills or drinks but if at all possible, stay with the really natural approach and just add the foods to your diet. Most enzymes in the human body are produced by the pancreas and the liver, as we get older the production can slow down and you need to give it a little boost. There are digestive enzymes that you can buy and eat with all of your meals.

Some foods and spices are natural boosters of your entire system. Cayenne is one of them, try adding a little cayenne pepper to your diet and see if you notice the increased comfort in your digestion.

Honey is nature’s little powerhouse. It is healthy for your body for many reasons but it is also a great aid in the digestive system especially if it is combined with things like milk or cinnamon. Ginger is also great combined with honey due to its natural calming effects on the digestive system.

In summary, yogurt, combined with honey and cinnamon or ginger is a superfood. Add a fermented dish such as sauerkraut or kimchi to your diet as well and then drink lots of water, chew your food well and enjoy the benefits of a happy digestive system. These are all natural ways to boost your digestive system.

How to prevent migraine headaches

Migraine headaches can be debilitating. They can send you to bed unable to open your eyes or even to move. Once a migraine has started it needs to be treated. The ideal treatment is to try to prevent migraine headaches from starting at all.

There is not one simple answer to preventing migraine headaches. Many things can trigger a migraine but first, you must determine if your headaches are true migraines A variety of symptoms are indicative of a migraine. Is your pain only on one side of your head, are you sensitive to light and do your eyes hurt? Are you feeling nauseous or are you throwing up? 

Did you see strange lights or colors? Do you have other visual or audio phenomenon shortly before your headache begins(these are known as auras)? Any or all of these may mean you are a migraine sufferer.

Your best defense against a migraine is to identify what is triggering it. Most people have one or more triggers. A daily journal can be of great help in isolating the triggers that you have been exposed to.

Food and alcohol are common triggers with red wine being one of the top offenders. Other common triggers are aged cheeses such as Cheddar, Brie, and Gruyere, foods containing MSG or other preservatives (Chinese food and salad bars are places where you may be getting it), caffeinated drinks such as coffee, tea and colas, chocolate and aged, canned, processed, or smoked meats. Keep in mind that this list is not exclusive, your particular migraine may be caused by a food other than those listed here.

Changes in weather can also affect migraine sufferers. Sometimes it will seem as if your head is a weather barometer, you will be the first to know that a storm is brewing. Odors and perfumes are also very common triggers. One that affects many people is musk and while some people enjoy the smell of gasoline, for some migraine sufferers, it is a real headache. Perfumes may come from things as simple as a car deodorizer and candles to ones as complex as your dear friends. While it may prove awkward, you may have to request that certain friends not wear perfume when they are around you.

Missing a meal can trigger a migraine as can hormones. The best thing about menopause is that it may signal the end of hormone related migraines.

Stress is probably the most common cause of migraines. Stress is a part of everyday life, those with a tendency toward migraines are suffering from it. Trying to develop relaxation techniques can help to keep stress to a minimum and this may lessen the number of episodes you have to suffer through.

More recently, it has been suggested that gluten may contribute to incidence of migraines.  It appears that a sensitivity to gluten may be to blame. If you suffer you may want to give it a try to see if it helps you. 

Once you identify your triggers, you are better able to prevent migraines from happening in the first place. I am a lifelong migraine sufferer and have found that I have several triggers which I try to avoid. 

Mattress Review: Tulo

The mattress in our spare bedroom has been around since the fire in 1995. It was time for it to be replaced. I am a Serta girl all the way but Al needs to have a very supportive mattress and when he can't sleep he goes to the spare bedroom. That made getting a mattress that he likes important. My friend Cindy bought a twin Tulo and was very pleased. She had Al lay on it at her house and he found it comfortable.

Mattress Firm carries the Tulo so we went to their store in Glastonbury to try out the different firmnesses. It is a good thing that we did since Al did not like the twin, he felt like he would fall off the bed. We ended up getting a full and he preferred the firm to the medium. That is what we ordered. 

Unfortunately, I was told that the frame for the full would not be available until October.

I had the option of picking the mattress up at the warehouse in Windsor, having it delivered for a substantial fee or having it delivered to the store and picking it up there. I opted to pick it up at the store. I was told it would be in on Wednesday and that I could pick it up on Thursday. That was incorrect, I could not get it until Friday.

When I got home I went to Mattress Firm online and ordered the frame, seems it was available and I received it before I picked up the mattress. As you can imagine, I was less than impressed with the information I received from the Mattress Firm in Glastonbury. 

The frame arrived on Wednesday and I was able to put it together myself, it was very straightforward. 

The Tulo comes in a box, it is not light but the two of us were able to manage it. It fit in the back seat of our Forester. It takes a few hours for the mattress to rise to its full height of 10 inches. Reviews I read talked about a smell lasting 24 hours, I did not find the smell to be at all overwhelming. 

How do I like the Tulo? I love it. It is very comfortable and the total price was about $660. It comes with a 10-year guarantee.