Thursday, March 29, 2018

What Timeless Serums Contain Ferulic Acid?



Timeless Skin Care is dedicated to providing all-natural skin serums with powerful ingredients that can help protect skin and reverse the aging process. Ferulic Acid is a powerful anti-oxidant that is found naturally in the cell wall of plants such as rice and bran. In addition to fighting free radicals, this potent ingredient is also known to regenerate skin and is compatible with most skin types. Here is more about the Timeless Vitamin C+E Ferulic Acid Serum:

Vitamin C: Well known as a potent anti-oxidant, Vitamin C can stop and even reverse the damage of free radicals. While free radicals occur naturally, the also leads to aging and disease, which is why powerful anti-oxidants make a good addition to skin care as well as your diet. In addition to its anti-oxidant effects, Vitamin C has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects making it a good choice for damaged, irritated skin. Finally, Vitamin C promotes the production of collagen, one of the major building blocks of skin. While young, healthy skin constantly produces collagen, its production is known to be decreased by age or damage, which is where Vitamin C can be beneficial.

Vitamin E: Naturally found in a variety of foods, Vitamin E promotes the production of the skin’s natural oils making it a powerful moisturizing agent. Products that contain Vitamin E are ideal for dry and sun damaged skin.

Using the Serum: Like all Timeless serums, the Vitamin C + E Ferulic Acid serum should be used in the morning and at night. Apply two to three drops of the serum onto your fingertips and massage them gently into the skin of your face and neck.
The serum is a great choice for most skin types. However, if your skin is oily or if you suspect that you may be allergic to ferulic acid, it is best to consult a doctor before adding this serum to your skin care regimen.

Tuesday, March 27, 2018

25 Years After Opening its Doors, Jade Garden Continues Elegant Chinese Dining Tradition

The façade of the original Jade Garden restaurant in Makati was a symbol of unparalleled dining – reminiscent of the opulence of Shanghai and Hong Kong.

The present-day Jade Garden may have a new façade and updated interiors, but it still offers the best dining experience – a cuisine of elegance and prosperity.


It was in 1980 when Chinese cuisine in Manila changed forever- when the dreams of entrepreneur and visionary Joseph Henry Ng reached its peak with the opening of Jade Garden. The first restaurant was particularly located at the former Automat, one of the most popular dining places during that time, also a masterpiece of Joseph Henry Ng.

It was as if diners were transported to Hong Kong, the country of origin of Jade Garden.

The best chef on Cantonese cuisine was flown to Manila, tapestries, china, and silver were imported from Hong Kong, chandeliers were raised, and carpets were rolled out for the opening of the most pompous Chinese restaurant in the country.

For the first time, eating Chinese cuisine in the city was like dining in the presence of an emperor – suckling pigs with electronic glowing eyes, chicken wrapped in hardened “mud”, and the Peking duck that was served three ways were the main courses, of course, it was accompanied by the indulgent shark’s fin soup and succulent abalones. The interiors were state-of-the-art, bar none, with crystal chandeliers reflecting light in soft hues around the hall, the silverware gleaming, and chinaware pristinely white.

Opening Jade Garden in the Philippines was the result of years of preparation, planning, and practice until everything was perfect. “We pulled out all the stops when we opened Jade Garden in 1980. The service, the linens, the interiors, and the dishes – all were impeccable. There was no room for mistake,” said Peter Ng, the second-generation owner of Jade Garden who also runs the family-owned Makati Supermart group of malls and supermarkets.

It has been 25years since Jade Garden first opened its doors in Makati City’s then premier commercial district, the Makati Commercial Center. But the opulence that Jade Garden serves has stood the test of time. The restaurant, which was opened by the inimitable First Lady Imelda Marcos, was the brainchild of some of the best minds in business and restaurant operations on this side of the planet.

Joseph Henry Ng was introduced to Mr. S.T. Wu, Chairman, of the Maxim’s Caterers, Ltd. Hong Kong, one of the largest restaurant chains in Hong Kong. The introduction was made by industrialist and esteemed Washington Sycip. Manila’s need for a fine dining Chinese restaurant that could rival those in Hong Kong was realized during that same meeting.


“From the conceptualization, we have always wanted to raise the bar in Chinese dining in the country. When Jade Garden opened, there was no other restaurant who served the way we did. A number of our staff were sent and trained in Hong Kong – they had to master how to change plates; how the suckling pig was sliced and served; the way to cut the Peking duck; and even how to change the table cloth in a swift but neat manner,” Ng added.

Today, dining at Jade Garden is like traveling back in time, when everything was glorious and opulence was the menu.

Sunday, March 25, 2018

Vivo unveils the all-new ‘V9’ AI-powered FullView™ display smartphone in the Philippines


Global smartphone brand Vivo has revealed its all-new sleek and stylish V9 flagship unit at the City of Dreams Manila in a summer-themed unveiling that was attended by over 200 members of the press and other guests.

Vivo welcomed its guests late Thursday afternoon at the Wave, a contemporary poolside deck, restaurant, and bar so they can experience the V9 and take selfies and photos with the sunset as their backdrop. Vivo then picked one lucky and creative photo posted on Instagram to win a V9 unit.


Vivo executives led by Brand Director Annie Lim answered some of the questions of the media during the V9 press launch.

The program continued at the City of Dreams Grand Ballroom with Myx VJ Ai dela Cruz as the host. They were formally welcomed by Vivo Brand Director Annie Lim who recapped the smartphone company’s feats in the Philippines. Since it entered the Philippine market in 2016, Vivo has been steadily rising to become the country’s top three brand with over 5,200 stores and 1.5 million users nationwide.

Vivo’s Jomari Morales followed Lim's remarks by presenting all the goods on the V9. She highlighted the Vivo V9’s 90% screen-to-body ratio, the 24-megapixel selfie camera and 16MP+5MP dual read camera, and the AI-powered photography for a “perfect view” and a “perfect shot.”

Morales also presented the Vivo V9’s improved game mode that would enable users to take calls or open other apps without pausing the gaming applications or play without any interruptions.

After her presentation, Vivo’s Junior Brand Manager Christian Jocson revealed that anyone can enjoy a V9 for a “perfect” price of Php17,990 with pre-orders beginning on March 26 until April 2.

Lim, Morales, Jocson, and Xian Gana from Vivo then answered the media’s questions during the Q&A. Their exchanges were focused on the Vivo’s plans in the Philippines and the V9's capabilities.


Vivo Brand Director Annie Lim acknowledged the smartphone brand’s partners, Ayala Malls and SM Supermalls, during the launch of the V9.

Vivo partners, Ayala Malls and SM Supermalls, were also recognized during the event during the ceremonial exchange of tokens. Lim handed the malls' representatives with a Little V doll.

Fresh faces of Vivo

Vivo also welcomed its newest endorsers, up-and-coming actors Edward Barber and Ivan Dorschner.

Barber is the onscreen partner of young actress Maymay Entrata who also joined the event. Entrata was the first who joined Vivo in September 2017 during the launch of the V7+. His endorsement deal with Vivo is something MayWard fans have been patiently waiting for since the pair already worked together for the smartphone brand during their first Making Mega shoot in Germany last year.

Dorschner, meanwhile, charmed the press with his good looks and charisma. He was one of Kuya’s guests in Pinoy Big Brother in 2010. Since then, he became one of GMA Network's top leading men after starring alongside young actress and fellow Vivo endorser Barbie Forteza in the primetime series "Meant To Be."


Aside from the launch of the new flagship smartphone V9, Vivo also introduced its newest endorsers, Ivan Dorschner and Edward Barber.

Barber, Entrata, and Dorschner also picked three lucky winners of the Vivo V9 during the raffle. They also joined the Vivo executives for a toast for the V9. Also with them onstage were other Vivo endorsers young pop-soul singer Sassa Dagdag, acoustic singer-songwriter TJ Monterde, and balladeer Jason James Dy who closed the night with their performances.

About Vivo

A global smartphone brand focused on introducing perfect sound quality and ultimate photography with cutting-edge technology, Vivo develops innovative and stylish products for young people. We now have over two hundred million users and are one of the preferred brands of young people around the world. As an Official Sponsor of the FIFA World Cup™, Vivo believes in the importance of encouraging young people to embrace self-expression and an energetic lifestyle.

For inquiries about Vivo, visit the Vivo website at www.vivo.com/ph or check out their Facebook
(https://www.facebook.com/VivoPhil), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/vivophil/), and
Twitter (https://twitter.com/vivo_phil) accounts.

Thursday, March 22, 2018

Over P9.5 million worth of prizes at SM Little Stars 2018


#SuperMoms, the much-awaited #SMLittleStars2018 event this summer is back! Timeout with school stuff and let our kids shine by showcasing their talents while building confidence and camaraderie with other kids. Read more below about the event...

PRESS RELEASE

On its 12th year of celebrating talented Filipino kids, SM Supermalls unwraps a bigger and more exciting SM Little Stars as the kiddie-talent search gives away over PhP9.5 million worth of prizes, which include 2 brand new Chevrolet Trax, trips to China for 2, college scholarships from the National University, and PhP200,000 worth of cash and SM gift certificates – announced at a media launch on February 28 in SM Megamall. 

SM Little Stars continues to be a platform for kids to share talents, enhance their personalities, and develop their confidence. The competition not only recognizes the shining and brightest kids, but it also celebrates the start of their journey in becoming stars in the future as they inspire more children to discover their innate talents.

The kids will also have the chance to be guided by celebrity mentors and a series of workshops to help develop their talents and boost self-confidence, as well as to encourage them to have fun and make new friends!

SM Little Stars achievers who are now making big names on showbiz include 2014 Girl Grand Winner Fil-Korean Chun Sa Angella Jung, who continue to win fans with her acting prowess and is a mainstay of a kiddie sketch comedy show on mainstream TV. Joining the celebrated kids is 2013 Boy Grand Winner Nhikzy Vheench Calma who was awarded as WCOPA 2017’s Junior Grand Champion Performer of the World last July 8 in Long Beach, California. Also not to be missed is 2016 Girl Grand Winner turned commercial model Sheena Kirtsten Bentoy who is all set to play a well-loved role in Disney’s The Lion King The Musical in March.

Don’t forget that auditions begin on April 7 in participating SM malls nationwide! For more details about SM Little Stars, check out https://www.smsupermalls.com/smlittlestars.


###

For exclusive news about SM Supermalls, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow SM’s official social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; and get an insider access to all the fun happenings at SM Supermalls nationwide through SM’s Viber Public Chat. Tweet your thoughts, upload and share your photos about your memorable moments at SM, then use its official hashtag #EverythingsHereAtSM.

SBMA to open 112 summer-job slots to deserving poor students



Let's end the school year with this awesome news for the students who will benefit from Summer Hire Program of the freeport. Thank you for helping out underpriviledged students to go further by helping them to spend their summer worthwhile. Read more below.

News Release-

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — A total of 112 deserving poor students stand to benefit from the Summer Hire Program of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) during this summer break, as business locators in the Subic Bay Freeport extended their support to provide employment.

SBMA Chairperson and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma said that 15 Subic-registered companies have already joined the program to accommodate students from junior and senior high school, as well as college level, who are scheduled to be deployed in various job assignments starting April.

Eisma added that a total of 112 slots will be given to students who pass the qualification requirements under the program being implemented by the SBMA Labor Department in line with the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) of the Department of Labor and Employment.

“These applicants are poor but deserving students who excel in their classes. And as part of our community engagement, it is our task to guarantee that they will be able to enroll the next school year,” Eisma explained.

“These talented and brilliant students deserve our malasakit,” she added.

She noted that more business locators and investors are now expressing their intention to join the program. “I really hope that more students will be hired,” Eisma said.

SPES was created under Republic Act 7323, a law which aims to help poor but deserving students pursue their education by encouraging their employment during summer and/or Christmas vacations. The law was later amended by RA 9547.

SBMA Labor Department manager Severo Pastor Jr. explained that under the law, summer hires are to be employed from 20 to 50 working days and shall receive regular wages equivalent to those received by regular employees.

“Of this, 60% shall be paid by the employer-company, while the remaining 40% shall be paid by the DOLE through educational vouchers,” Pastor said.

- more -

Under the SPES program, the work period accumulated by summer hires may also be counted as their probationary period should they apply for a job in the same company or agency after graduation, and should earn academic credits as may be determined by the appropriate government agencies.

Among the companies participating in the SBMA’s Summer Hire program are fast-food restaurants, gasoline stations, utilities, and manufacturing firms where the students will perform work related to their respective courses.

How to Organize Life the Easiest Way Possible




Life, in general, can be a handful. It takes a lot to do things and no one can strike it in just one try. How can we simplify life, for me, it is how we organize things!

Organizing varies widely when it comes to the definition of terms and how it is being applied to certain people of a certain group within a community. 

When I hear the word organize or to stay organize, two words always pop into my mind; time and discipline

Time is the first step for you to get things going. You need to devote a specific time to your everyday life to keep things organized. Time can make your plan on what to do next and how to do it. You alone is the sole responsible for allocating and setting up the pace needed. This is how I perceive time when it comes to organizing. 

To discipline oneself or others can be a big deal especially when you are not determined to do a certain task. It will drawback everything that is placed and scheduled when your self-discipline got cut-back. Adding some key ingredients to this are; determination, focus, and goals to finish. Admittingly, most of us struggle in this area. 

Now, what do I get when I start to organize things for my everyday life? I know for a fact that life will be easy-breezy when everything is in place, from the simplest things to the more complex ones. For example, cooking is my way to de-stress from every day from work, so on weekends I always stock-up with products I will be needing for the whole week; produce that can last for a couple of more days, can goods that can serves as an alternative, meat and other poultry that can be left in the chiller for that certain period of time, other essential ingredients too such as flour, sugar, rice and other grains.
This is an example of how I organized things in the kitchen, which for me is always a win-win solution to keep my mind directed to the positive side of everyday life. 

You might ask if I make a list of this things? Yes, I do! 
The traditional to-do list on a sheet of paper works handy, it will surely work fine but to lessen the use of paper and reduce the production, "Going Paperless" can be practice to, this is also a way to protect the environment. Do you know that you hook up everything in your gadget? A handy spreadsheet template which you can use for simple task tracker, weekly meal plan, school-related management, every day to a yearly planner, and money tracker- which for me is very important when it comes to budgeting the family and personal expenses. 

Personally, I am a fan of the weekly meal planner and money tracker, it works very handily for me. I can input the amount and volume in just a few clicks, from that I know what is the amount flow and how much I can spend in the coming days, whether I am at the office or on mobile.  

Again, to make life easy and organize...devote a spoonful time and a pinch of discipline.

Saturday, March 17, 2018

How To Improve Your Home On A Budget

Our home is a place of comfort and leisure. It is where we can find our simple basic needs to satisfy our everyday life.

A home is defined by family members, it's allocation for specifics such as how many rooms are needed, how big or small the area for a certain place or corner where fixtures or an appliance needed to go. All these are being done when one is starting a family. When a family is settled, enjoying each and every corner of the house, leaving and creating memories with the family members. Kids will grow up and eventually make their own way to create their own homes. Improvements are needed to maintain a durable and workable surrounding of the house, that is fit perfectly for everyone's need. Also, another factor to take note is the change of weather, where some fixtures and installed panels are being worn out due to change of temperature, and other natural elements. It is also a major point when going house-hunting. 



For me, there will be always that one corner in your home that you eye and wish for some improvement. 

Coming home from a busy day at work, having a good bath in a clean and fresh smelling bathroom can relieve you with all the stressors from the outside surroundings. I know some of you will agree with me on this. But, sometimes I feel enclosed in the bathroom because of all the bathroom essential products displayed in the small cabinets installed on the wall. If I were to ask one room that I would like some improving this would be it, the bathroom

I have listed some items below as your guide before you reached the point of deciding...yes I need something new and some things to be changed in that room. To inspire you in deciding on what to get and your possible project soon, click here, it serves as my guide for me stick to the style I want...a minimalist and modern style.


How to improve your home when you are on a budget?

1. Identify the area that needs improvement.
    - don't overwhelm yourself in doing a major renovation, do it one step at a time.

2. Classify the need.
    - Do you need to change the kids' bunkbeds to single beds because they are way older now?

3. Plan and allocate your budget.
    - the very core when you start thinking of renovating and improving.

4. Consider doing DIY. 

  • painting shelves, or a cabinet going beyond the opposite color.
  • change cabinet handles and knobs
  • segregate potted plants, recycle old woods and ply boards then paint it. 
  • change light bulbs
  • transform that plain coffee table to a more personalized coffee table. 
  • change throw pillow covers. 
  • add flowers
  • add candles in different areas of the house
5. Ask help for manpower when creating that space you need. 
    - to lessen your additional expenses, ask the family member or a friend help you.

Moreover, you shouldn't stop here. Consult help from professional cleaning services if there are bit more problems. We love Geaux Maids Cleaning in Baton Rouge. So, go forward and make your home glow again.

Those are some ideas you can consider to start with. 
SaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSave

Thursday, March 15, 2018

4 Tips To Protect Your Vehicle From Harsh UV Rays


Feeling the sunshine on a warm, bright day is a pleasant feeling. Climbing into a sizzling hot car is not. Everyone has learned from experience that the sun and vehicles do not make a good combination. It’s inevitable that the two will mix, however, so what can you do to reduce the effects of the sun on your car? Try out these four tips to protect your vehicle from harsh UV rays.

1. Use Car and Truck Covers

Most people associate full covers with wintertime to prevent having to remove snow from vehicles. While that may be one popular use, it’s not the only one. You can also use outdoor car and truck covers in sunny seasons to prevent the interior and exterior of your car from experiencing fading and heating. Remember that you can use them on the vehicles you drive every day, not just the ones you only take out for special occasions.

2. Get a Sun Shade

Don’t want or need a full car or truck cover? Then all you need is a personalized car sun shade. However, instead of getting a generic type, opt for a personalized one for the best fit. Your car will stay cool inside and avoid damage from UV rays. For convertibles, shades that cover the top and windshields are available.

3. Tint the Windows

Tinting your windows is another way to keep out the heat and stop the glare of the sun. Just be sure to become familiar with your state’s laws on tinting before getting the job done. A cheaper and easier option is to placing cling shades in the windows.

4. Park in the Shade

Whether you’ve forgotten your sun shade or want extra protection, park your car in the shade. For long-term parking, put on a cover so you don’t have to clean dirt, debris, and bird droppings off your paint job.

Keeping your car safe from the sun’s harsh light is easy with the help of California Car Cover. You can find covers, shades, and more on the company’s website.

Celebrities Share Top BOOGI Picks That’s Perfect for their Lifestyle


Social media is abuzz with celebrities, designers, and other personalities posting with interestingly innovative pieces under the design-forward European furnishings concept store in Makati, BOOGI. It appears that there’s a growing market consciousness for purposeful products that enable improved productivity through smart design solutions.

Family and friends shared their selections at the BIG BOOGI SALE – from the huge family of artists that are the Pangilinans and Valencianos, to designer Bambi Mañosa, chef and artist Claude Tayag, and respected journalist Ces Drilon.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcrfF26A5dA/?taken-by=karapangilinan


https://www.instagram.com/p/BdB5JRNn8E_/?taken-by=boogiph


QUOTE: “Lighting is so important to me, I feel that when I’m sad, I need a certain kind of lighting. When I’m happy, I need the lighting sort of facing me”


https://www.instagram.com/p/BcwbSbflbmA/?taken-by=yosameti



https://www.instagram.com/p/BcxbQdbH5B0/?taken-by=angelipv

https://www.instagram.com/p/BczUqN3nP2q/?taken-by=bambi_manosa


https://www.instagram.com/p/BcyKfk2n-br/?taken-by=boogiph


https://www.instagram.com/p/8xYqdTo2UV/



Team Pangilinan crowns the list. The celebrity family is known to pursue different passions and activities, known ambassadors of productive lifestyles.  

https://www.instagram.com/p/BczFBRFAKUL/?taken-by=donny_pangilinan


Teen heartthrob Donny shows that despite his hectic schedule, family bonding is the priority.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcjJOrUDkfs/?taken-by=mommymaricel


Enter the family schedule orchestrator - she keeps the family in rhythmic flow and makes sure things are organized. Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan hams it up with her favorite – the classic Filing Cabinet from British brand Bisley.


https://www.instagram.com/p/BcpVH27j0qZ/?taken-by=ellapangilinanx


Sisters Ella and Hannah show off the duo of talent they are, as they express diverse interests with their choices. Activewear designer, Ella, shows she has a green thumb and plans to start her own indoor herb garden.  Hannah shows that she got it from her momma as she exhibits her fancy for colorful multi-drawers from Bisley.






Padre de pamilya Anthony Pangilinan shares his joy of finding a height adjustable desk that helps optimize his energy and encourages good posture and more dynamic movement as he does desk work.

Get on board in the movement to get purposeful design pieces that spark joy. The BIG BOOGI SALE is on!   Stocks are limited.  Visit BOOGI showrooms in Makati at 830 Arnaiz Avenue and at the3/F of LRI Design Plaza in Nicanor Garcia for these innovative designer items. To know more about the products, follow BOOGI on Instagram and Facebook at boogiph. 

Wednesday, March 14, 2018

How Often Should You Clean Your Home?


As a working Mom, I always schedule my time for everything, work, kids, home, and time for myself. There is always the obsessive-compulsive side of me when it comes to home cleaning. When the kids are still babies, ways of cleaning the house is far different than now that they are a little older. But, there are still areas in the house that needs my attention, in which I can only do it perfectly, well almost perfect that it can pass my standards.


Here are some points to look out when, where and what to look out when cleaning.

Bedding
Don’t you want the space where you sleep to be as clean and serene as your best dreams? Regular cleaning will help cut down on the dust mites, sweat, debris, allergens and even fungi that can build up from the constant contact with slumbering bodies.

Sheets
It makes sense that the items closest to your sleeping self would need cleaning the most often. Make sure to wash sheets once a week in hot water and dry on a hot cycle.

Pillows

Even though they’re protected by pillowcases, you’ll still want to clean your pillows a few times a year about every three to six months – to prevent the build-up of things we’d rather not think about while trying to sleep. Throw them one (if king-sized) or two (if regular-sized) at a time into the washer on the gentle cycle with liquid detergent, run the rinse cycle twice, and dry on low with two clean tennis balls.

Mattress
This big item doesn’t have to be a big job, especially when you only need to do it every six months. Simply vacuum the top, using an upholstery attachment, and remove any stains with a cold, lightly-dampened cloth, using a little upholstery shampoo if you want. Rotate it head-to-toe for even wear, and you’re all set! Also, remember that a quality mattress cover or pad can protect it from dust mites and other allergens.
Appliances

We use them every day without thinking too much about them, but the appliances in our lives need and deserve regular cleaning, especially the ones that come into contact with our food or that we trust to clean everything else in our homes!

Oven
We love a good self-cleaning oven, but not all of them have that setting. If yours doesn’t, you’ll want to schedule a cleanse every six months. Take out the oven racks and soak in hot water and liquid detergent, and spray the oven – both the inside and the door – with oven cleaner. Put some newspapers under the door to catch any drips, and let everything sit overnight.

Meanwhile, run any removable knobs through the dishwasher. The next morning, wipe everything clean with warm water and a rag and scrub any non-removable knobs with dishwashing liquid and warm water. Voila! Make sure to wait a few days before cooking a big meal, as the smells of chemicals and food can combine rather unpleasantly.

Dishwasher
Don’t you want the appliance that cleans your dishes to be spotless? Luckily, it’s an easy once-a-month task. Just put an upright cup of vinegar on the empty top rack and run a full cycle on hot.

Washer and Dryer
We trust our washers and dryers to purify our germiest things, but it turns out some of our linens are actually turning these machines into breeding grounds for things like salmonella and E. coli. Horrifying! What to do? Whenever you clean underwear, kitchen towels, or anything you would put in the “whites” category, clean with hot water and bleach to sanitize both your laundry and your machine.

Computer

You might not think of your computer as being particularly germ-infested, but anything touched by human hands as much as the keyboard is touched is bound to be a prime spot for bacteria. As needed, disconnect the keyboard and the mouse and wipe down with a clean rag and rubbing alcohol, using a cotton ball to get into the deep crevices.

Windows
Let the light in by cleaning your windows twice a year, inside and out. Make your own cleaner by mixing five drops of liquid dish detergent and one teaspoon rubbing alcohol in two gallons of water.

Use a sponge to clean the whole window, followed by a lint-free cloth or coffee filter across a 1-inch strip at the top of the window. Squeegee in smooth, slightly-overlapping strokes. Make your strokes horizontal on one side and vertical on the other to quickly find and correct any streaks.

Window Screens
It wouldn’t make much sense to clean the windows without cleaning the screens too, now would it? Once a year, scrub them down either in your yard or in your bathtub. If you’re lucky enough to have some good green space, spray the screens with a garden hose, followed by a gentle scrub with a one-part ammonia, three-parts water solution. Rinse and let dry in the sun. If you’re going the tub route, lay down a drop cloth or old blanket and put the screens under the shower head, cleaning with window cleaner and letting them air-dry.

Carpet
Of course, you’re vacuuming regularly and spot-cleaning as needed, but try to deep-clean your carpets once a year. Opt for the steam-cleaning route after vacuuming off surface dirt, spritzing the cleaning solution directly onto the carpet with a spray bottle and using only clean water in the extractor in the steam-cleaner.

Grout
The place where you clean yourself should be pristine. Obviously, you’re cleaning your bathroom regularly, so do a deep clean on tile grout about once a year

Wood Furniture

Keep your wood furniture glowing with a once-a-year polish. Wipe down your furniture with a damp cloth, followed by a dry one, then apply wax with the natural botanical carnauba in a circular manner. Let it sit for a few minutes, then remove with a dry cloth in the direction of the wood grain until the cloth slides.

Get cleaning! It’s not as bad as you think! BUT… if you chose to leave the dirty work in the hands of the professionals, look no further then Eco Clean Madison! They will leave your house with a sparkle!
Whether you clean the dirtiest part of the house, always put a smile to it and enjoy what you are doing, after all, you will find peace when you go home to a clean and fresh smelling house. 

How to Create a Living Space That Is Both Bright and Airy


The condition of interior spaces can have a significant impact on our wellbeing. Rooms that are kept dark and stuffy all the time don’t only look sad and dreary, they can actually be bad for your health as well. Indoor pollutants like tobacco smoke, household pesticides, radon, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and lead can circulate around your indoor air with you being none the wiser. Exposure to such pollutants can manifest in what is known as sick building syndrome, which is a medical condition that causes people to feel unwell for no apparent reasons.
If you would like to have a home that is light, bright, and airy, it’s time to make some changes. Here are a few tips that you might want to consider.

De-Clutter the Space
One of the easiest ways to make your living room feel less stuffy is to minimize the amount of clutter within that space. Make an inventory of the things that you can throw or give away, and keep only the things that actually bring you happiness and add value to your life. Trust us, minimalism can make a huge difference in the way indoor spaces look and feel.

Install Sheer Curtains Instead of Heavy Drapes
If your living room is already dark because your windows are not large enough or because the room’s configuration itself can’t take full advantage of natural lighting, don’t make it even darker by choosing the wrong window treatments. Consider buying sheer curtains instead so you can make the most of whatever amount of daylight streams in from the outside. Of course, you can still layer the sheer curtains with heavy drapes, but only use them in the evening to enhance your privacy.
The best thing about sheer curtains is that they come in a variety of styles. Whether patterned, embroidered, or solid-colored, sheer curtains are a great compromise for when you need both daylight and privacy during the day.

Build Large Openings
If you have the budget to remodel your home, it would be best to build large openings that will optimize the amount of light and air that enter your home. Large windows and floor-to-ceiling sliding doors maximize the amount of light while also allowing air to circulate in your living room when they are opened. If your living room doesn’t have an upper floor above, you might also want to consider building a skylight, which should let more daylight into your home.

Repaint Your Walls in Cheerful Colors
Sometimes, simply giving your living room a new coat of paint can already make a huge difference. Choose bright, cheerful colors that enhance the glow of daylight indoors. All-white is always a great choice, although pastel colors and bright colors like sunny yellow, turquoise, lavender, and light pink also work wonders.

Choose Furnishings and Accessories Made of Light Materials
Choosing the right materials for your living room’s furnishings and accessories can also have a big impact on the overall feel of the room. Consider wicker furniture made from natural materials like rattan, reed, bamboo, willow, seagrass, or those constructed from synthetics like vinyl. If you have existing furniture that is upholstered in heavy materials like leather, you can purchase furniture covers made from cotton or linen to make them feel a little airier.

Minimize Your Accessories
One of the basic tenets of minimalism—to keep only items that bring value to your life—can also be applied to the way you choose accessories for your living room. Keeping your knickknacks to a minimum can make any indoor space feel brighter and roomier, so choose only items that you want to see on a daily basis or those that you would be proud to show your guests and visitors. Consider hanging framed art pieces that you really love, or displaying small cultural items that you have collected from your travels around the world. Great accessories can also be as simple as a few pieces of pottery or beautiful candelabras with bright-colored candles.   

You don’t have to feel limited by the current architecture of your home if you want to make your living space look and feel lighter and more cheerful. Simply follow the steps above, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a light, bright, and airy living space.