Home Decorating with Plant Displays

If you want to add life to your home try using plant displays. Plants bring a sense of freshness to your home. They add that special touch to areas of your decor that are boring or dull. This article discusses several home decorating ideas that use plant displays.

Rock Garden

A fun home decorating idea that will also help keep plants moist is a rock garden. Choose several small potted plants for this idea. Then place the plants in a tray. Add the rocks to the bottom of the tray. Place the display on a table counter, or windowsill. The water will keep your plants watered for longer while adding a feeling of nature to the home.

Cacti

Cacti are easy to care for, and they are perfect for small spaces. Mini cacti can be placed along windowsills or in small areas where there is not a lot of room. Cacti are often found in small containers, and they can be transplanted into unique items such as tea cups, old candle glasses, and small boxes.

This plant will make a stunning display not matter how many you choose to add to your home decor. You can group several cacti together in one pot, place a few in a row, or add one small cactus to the center of your windowsill for a personal display.

Forced Bulbs

Forced bulbs have a unique look, and they can bring the beauty of spring into the home during cold winter months. Bulbs can be forced in different manner depending on hat type of flower you are trying to grow. Placing these bulbs in clear containers adds to the beauty because rocks are often used in the process of forcing bulbs.

Miniature Gardens

Another plant display that is fun to create and adds personality to your decorating is miniature gardens. Miniature gardens can take on a variety of forms, and they are easy t make. Choose an interesting container and several small plants that will look nice together. Jade, grasses, and flowering mosses look nice together, but feel free to experiment. Add small ornaments that reflect your personality as well such as crystals, miniature figures or toys, and beads.

For a unique addition to your home decorating, try using these plant display ideas. They will bring your style into the home as well as life.

Two Easy and Simple Macramé Knots that Make Many Fun Projects

Macramé is a great form of art that I have enjoyed practicing. It is simple and useful. "It originated in Turkey as far back as the sixteenth century", and it was widely practiced in the 60's and 70's (O'Sullivan, 2004, p.63). It is an inexpensive way of creating that requires only cord, hemp, string, or something of this nature. It is also very useful because it is based on tying knots, and the ability to tie good knots come in hand in everyday life. You can make belts, necklaces, key chains, plant holders, purses, and many other interesting items using the macramé style. Here are directions on making two simple knots that will allow you to make many different beautiful creations.

A very basic knot is called the overhand knot. It is the simplest knot in macramé and can be achieved easily by people of all ages and skill level. To make this knot all you must do is "make a loop, and bring the end of the cord behind the loop and out through the loop" (O'Sullivan, 2004, p.142). This not is simple and used widely in macramé projects.

Another easy knot that will get you started creating great macramé projects is the square knot. It is slightly more complicated than the overhand knot, but it is also simple enough to understand and emulate. In order to accomplish this knot you will need at least 3 cords. One will be the center cord or core cord, and the other cords will tie the knot. To make the knot "pass the right hand cord over the core cords and under the left hand cords, leaving a little loop on the right; then pass the left hand cord under the core cords and up though the loop" (O'Sullivan, 2004, p.142). Now do the same action except start with the left hand cord. Remember to always pull your knot tight or your knot will be uneven or it will come undone.

You can also slip beads onto the cords at any point in time in order to create fun additions to your works. When using the square knot it is fun to slip beads onto the center cord and allow extra cord in between knots made with the side cords to create a flower like detail. The bead on the center cord will serve as the inside of the flower.

These two simple knots can make many fantastic works of art. These projects are a lot of fun to create and use, and they are easy enough for anybody to master them.

References:
O'Sullivan, J. (2004). Hippie crafts: Creating a hip new look using groovy '60s crafts. New York, NY: Sterling Publishing Co.

The Importance of Hormones in Glucose Homeostasis

Diabetes, commonly treated with insulin, is a widespread ailment for many people, but insulin treatment only provides one of the compounds used in glucose homeostasis. This article discusses the importance of several hormones in glucose homeostasis.

Diabetes is treated with insulin, but evidence shows that there are many compounds that impact glucose homeostasis besides just insulin. Diabetes was seen as a mono-hormonal deficiency until the discovery of additional glucoregulatory hormones known as glucagon, amylin and incretin hormones. The interconnection of these hormones and the hormone insulin is now known to be the governing factors affecting glucose homeostasis. These hormones come from both the gut and the pancreas, and they work together to regulate glucose homeostasis.

A combined effort of all of these hormones is needed to effectively treat diabetes and improve glucose homeostasis. Regulating glucagon is still a common problem and research has focused on therapies to regulate this hormone. Amylin suppresses the secretion of glucagon by working with insulin; this hormone also helps regulate gastric emptying. Incretin hormones play a large role in glucose homeostasis by regulating the appearance of glucose and improving the secretion of insulin. These hormones are being studied, but researchers are only now becoming able to develop therapies to help with amylin and incretin hormones. The importance of a balance of all the hormones needed for glucose homeostasis is obvious when the negative effects of only insulin use is considered. Using only insulin to combat deficiencies can lead to weight gain, hypoglycemia, and many other complications.

"Glucose homeostasis is governed by the interplay of insulin, glucagon, amylin, and incretin hormones," and the necessity of these hormones in treatments for diabetes is obvious (Aronoff, Berkowitz, Shreiner, and Want). Understanding the interplay of these hormones is necessary when trying to treat glucose deficiencies. Further research and application of this information can provide "new pharmacological agents to promote better clinical outcomes and quality of life for people with diabetes" (Aronoff, Berkowitz, Shreiner, and Want).

For a very long time insulin has been the only treatment for diabetes, but further research has determined the complexity of glucose homeostasis as well as the role that other hormones play in this process. It is important to develop therapies that help with other hormones besides insulin in order to fully treat people who suffer from these ailments as well as regulate glucose homeostasis.

Reference

Aronoff, Stephen L; Berkowitz, Kathy; Shreiner, Barb; Want, Laura Diabetes Spectrum 3(2004):183. eLibrary. Web. 16 May. 2011.

Tea Party Crafts for Kids

Children love playing tea party, and these tea party crafts will turn this game into an all day event. Tea party can be played with only imagination, but it is even more fun when you create crafts especially for your tea party. This article will provide you with detailed instructions on creating tea party crafts that your kids will love.

Centerpiece

The first thing you need to create a tea party centerpiece is a coffee can. You will also need tissue paper, glue, a paint brush, scissors, tape, and several sticks for this craft. Start by helping kids rip some of the tissue paper into strips.

Then help them use the paintbrush to glue the strips to the coffee can. While the can is drying help kids cut large circles from the tissue paper. Layer several circles one on top of each other. Remember to add a drop of glue to the center of each paper layer as you go. Help kids pinch the center of the circles and form the circles into a cone shape to create a flower. Use the tape to attach the flower to the sticks.

Cover the sticks with green tissue paper, and allow the glue to dry completely. When all pieces have dried you can place the flowers inside the can for a pretty tea party centerpiece.

Place Cards

For this easy tea party craft you will need construction paper, a marker, scissors, and fancy tea bag wrappers. Start this craft by helping kids fold the wrappers in half. Then cut out the center of the tea bag wrapper. This will leave your with a pretty border. Glue it to a piece of construction paper that is slightly bigger than the wrapper.

Help kids write the guests name on the blank area of paper inside the wrapper. Fold the construction paper so it displays the name on one side and stands up on its own. This tea party craft is fun for kids and a great keepsake.

Napkin Holders

Napkin holders are equally as easily made. For this tea party craft you will need a cardboard tube, ribbon, hot glue sticks, a hot glue gun, scissors, and fake flowers. Start this craft by helping kids cut the tube into a small circle.

Then help kids add some glue to the inside of the cardboard tube and attach the end of a long piece of ribbon to the glue. Then help kids wrap the ribbon around this tea party napkin ring. After the entire ring is covered help kids glue the end of the ribbon to the inside of the tube securely. Then add some flowers to the front of the ring using the glue gun.

These tea party crafts are a lot of fun for kids and adults. They will make your party extra special; so try them with your kids today!

How to Develop a Reading List for the Year

If your New Year's resolution is to read more you should learn how to develop a reading list for the year. Creating a reading list will keep you on track with your reading goals. This article will provide you with several tips for developing a reading list that you will enjoy all year.

When developing a reading list for the year you must ask yourself, "what do you want to gain from this year worth of reading?" Is there something you want to learn, or is there a series you want to complete? Consider your interests when deciding your goal. If you read as a means of relaxation then you probably want to stick with fiction. If you have an interest you would like to learn more about choosing informative books is a good idea. These questions are important when developing a reading list because they will make sure you utilize your time reading well.

Once you have determined what your goals you would like to achieve, it is time to start exploring your options. There are so many types of books and authors it may seem intimidating, but if you start with your original topic the process will be simple. If this is your first reading plan, start with 3 or 4 books a month. You do not have to read all of the books, but it will give you options to choose from each month.

If you are interested in fiction you should start by thinking about a fiction book that you have recently enjoyed. Check out other books in the same genre and other books by the same author. This is an excellent starting ground. If there are some series associated with the genre or author, add the first book to your list to see if you like. Remember you can always choose other books on your list because you have given yourself options. It is good to start with a broad genre like fantasy or horror in the beginning. Later on you can work into subgenres to suit your interests such as magic realism or psycho- thriller.

If you are interested in learning something, start with the basics for the first month of your reading list. Then try more detailed guides in the later months. For example, someone who wants to learn about knitting should start with a beginner's knitting guide in the first months, and the following months can focus on other categories such as knitting sweaters, scarves, or socks.

When looking for books to add to your reading list try Google Books. It has a wonderful search feature that will make finding books that interest you easy; so utilize it when completing your list. Remember to start simple and keep your mind open. You can always add or subtract from your list later on. If you find that you are board with instructional books, try adding some fiction. If you find that you have completed your goal early add a new goal.

Creating a reading list for the new year can be fun and easy as long as you keep your mind open.

Enzymes Used for Treatment in Digestive Disorders

Enzymes show benefits in more areas than just food production; enzymes commonly act as a treatment for many digestive disorders. Many digestive orders occur because the human body lacks the ability to digest or breakdown certain things found in many common foods. Enzymes are a popular treatment for these conditions because enzymes act on the intolerable food to change it into something more digestible. This makes enzymes a possible treatment for common digestive ailments such as celiac disease and lactose intolerance.

Celiac disease, a digestive disorder, causes an allergic reaction to gluten. This prohibits people with the disease to consume foods with the gluten protein in them. Papain, a proteolytic enzyme, helps those who suffer from celiac disease by breaking down gluten (Roxas 312). This allows the celiac to consume foods with gluten without suffering from bowel trouble. Proteolytic enzymes prove to be beneficial supplements for those who have trouble processing gluten, and they are becoming a common dietary recommendation for people with this condition.

Lactose intolerance causes many people to refrain from eating all types of dairy products, but an enzyme known as lactase shows proof that it helps rectify the problems caused by this disorder. Lactose intolerance primarily occurs when a person produces less lactase than needed to breakdown lactose. Taking the enzyme lactase orally results in increased tolerance of lactose and lactose containing foods (Roxas 311). This dietary supplement improves digestive problems associated with lactose intolerance such as cramping, bloating, and diarrhea. This enzyme helps those with lactose intolerance to maintain health while ingesting lactose.

Enzymes play a large role in many areas of our lives. Enzymes are found in plants, animals, the food we eat, and ourselves. Enzymes change the simplest things such as the flavor of cheese, freshness of bread, and clarity of fruit juice. Enzymes also aid in digestive problems that many people suffer from all their lives. The benefit of enzymes to the world is reflected in our everyday lives, but it is commonly overlook.

Reference:

Roxas, Mario. "The Role of Enzyme Supplementation in Digestive Disorders."Alternative Medicine Review13.4 (2008): 311-312. Thorne Review. Web. 1 Apr. 2011.

Easy, Cheap, and Awesome DIY Gifts: Princess Treasure Box

Presents for kids can get complicated; there are a lot of toys out there that your kids will play with for a week, and then they will forget about them. If you can make a gift for your kid, it will be more memorable, and it will be more personal. A princess treasure chest is a great gift that will be fun to make.

To start you need a nice box. You can use a hat box r a Tupperware. Anything you decide to use can be altered to suit your theme. To personalize the box you can decoupage it using images of flowers and other pretty things. You can also simply spray paint it the favorite color of little girl you are making the box for. You can add ribbons, bows, rhinestones, and sequins to the box to make it special, and you can use markers or paint and stencils to write the name of the recipient on it. This box should be a little bigger than what you intend on filling it with because you want to leave room for her to add her own special items.

Some items are essential to complete this project. First you must find a lovely tiara or crown. You can make your own crown using grapevines, wire, flowers, ribbons, and hot glue. You can buy different crowns and tiaras from the local party store or dollar store.

There are many items that you can get cheaply to fill this box. I like to go to the local thrift store and dollar store when putting together these types of boxes. You can find many pretty scarves, hats, sunglasses, and jewelry at these types of store. Lace gloves and slippers are another a fun thing to throw in the box. You can also find inexpensive children makeup kits at the local dollar store, and you can get a lot of kid's hair accessories and toys there as well.

Another important item you will need for this present is a dress. You can find a dress at your local thrift store or yard sale. The dress you pick has to be perfect, and you might like to pick a few different dresses. Older prom dresses are great, and bride's maid dresses also work well. Something fancy with a puffy skirt will work well. Remember you can always hem and alter the dress, and you can add ribbon, sequins, lace, and rhinestones to fancy it up a bit.

These princess boxes are a lot of fun to put together, and the person receiving this gift will be more than thrilled to play with it for hours on end.

Easy Ways to Jumpstart Weight Loss

There are many easy ways to jump start weight loss. Sometimes, when you begin a diet you may feel like you are never going to lose any weight. If you try these weight loss jump-start tips you will start losing weight effortlessly.

Beverages

There are certain things you should drink and shouldn't drink if you want to jumpstart weight loss. Stop drinking soda, energy drinks, and alcohol. Coffee and tea are good if you skip sugar and milk. Sugar and milk add up quickly with coffee. Juice is also very high in sugar, and you should replace juice with fresh fruit. Drink water. This is something you will hear from everyone when trying to lose weight. It is true. Drink at least 64 ounces of water a day, and you will lose a bunch of weight just in the first week.

Food

If you really want to jumpstart weight loss there are plenty of foods you should avoid, and plenty of foods you should indulge in. Avoid processed foods; there are so many empty calories and carbohydrates in processed foods. Cut starch intake in half; protein and fiber are much more valuable to your body. Protein and fiber will provide you with energy, and they can be found in lean meats, nuts, fruits, and vegetables. Eat plenty of these, and remember to cut sugar intake as well. The body needs much less sugar than is found in most meals.

Condiments

Try using health friendly condiments instead of hidden calorie condiments if you want to jumpstart your diet. Instead of mayonnaise try vinegar. Vegetable oils should be replaced with olive oil. Homemade sauces made from fresh ingredients are much more beneficial than prepackaged sauces. Instead of ketchup try fresh tomatoes or mustard.

Exercise

Try high intensity interval training. This may sound intimidating, but it only takes about 20 minutes, and the majority of that time is spent doing light weight work. An example of this type of training includes intervals of 2 minutes of slow walking, and 30 seconds of maximum capacity running over a period of about 20 minutes. This workout routine helps your body release hormones that will continue burning fat for hours after your workout.

Jumpstarting your weight loss does not have to be hard or grueling. With a few simple changes in your routine, you can give your weight loss that extra boost it needs.

Easy and Inexpensive Jewelry Crafts for Girls

When I was a little girl I remember making all sorts of jewelry out of odds and ends I found around my home, and I treasured my creations. Little girls like crafting, and they like jewelry so naturally there are a lot of fun jewelry craft projects that can be made. This article will discuss some fun jewelry themed craft projects that are easy and inexpensive.

Rice, seed, and bean bracelets are fun and easy to make, and they are very inexpensive. You will need rice, beans, and seeds, glue, and a hard plastic bracelet that can be purchased at the local dollar store. To make this bracelet you can glue the various beans and seeds onto the bracelet in a pattern or you can cover the bracelet with glue and roll it in the rice, seeds, and beans. Either way these bracelets are a lot of fun, and there are a lot of dried beans that you can choose from to make a variety of bracelets.

Film container seed necklaces are a great jewelry craft project that will last for a long time, and grow into a beautiful plant. These necklaces are also great because they are reusable. You will need 2 or 3 cotton balls, an empty film canister, a short screw, a seed, and ribbon. Simple screw the screw into the lid of the film container and tie the center of the ribbon to it. Next fill the container with cotton and add water to get it damp. Now place your seed inside and reattach the lid. You will be able to watch this seed grow, and plant it when it gets big enough. This project is fun, and it teaches children about nature.

Bottle cap pendants are another easy and inexpensive jewelry craft. For this project you will need old a bottle cap, some magazines, beads, gems, or any pretty little thing you have around the house, resin, paint, glue, and a pop top from a soda can.

Paint the back of the bottle cap and allow it to dry. Next cut a tiny image from a magazine and glue it inside the bottle cap. If you want to use gems and beads you can glue them to the inside of the bottle cap as well. Next mix the resin according to the directions on the package, and fill the bottle cap with resin. Allow this to set, and when it is dry glue the pop top to the back of the cap and hang on a ribbon for a necklace.

There are a lot of fun jewelry craft projects that will allow your daughter to have fun for hours. I hope these ideas have inspired you!

Do-It-Yourself Personalized Belly Dance Costumes

Belly dancing is not only fun, but it is a great workout, and it is a way to express yourself and your creativity. In order truly express yourself and your personality it is important to have a special belly dancing costume. Here I have compiled a list of ways to personalize your belly dancing costume, and a guide to making your own belly dancing costume.

In order to customize your do-it-yourself belly dancing costume you must make it special to you, and here are a few tips that will help you do just that!

Color schemes are an important aspect of your belly dance costume, and it is important to choose colors you like the most. It is good to choose colors that are bright are dark, but I find it key to choose colors from both spectrums in order to add impact to your costume. It is also nice to add a little gold, silver, or sparkle to your color schemes.

Another way to customize your belly dancing costume is through accessories. As a belly dancer accessories are key, and you might like to wear bells, or charms. You can also wear a belt that has many beads that you find unique. Long dangling earrings move nicely when you are dancing, and long necklaces can also accentuate the dance.

The use of scarves, fans, and zills are also a way to customize your belly dancing costume. Many belly dancers use these props to enhance their dance and add style to there performance. You can use any of these props to personalize your costume, or you can choose to use none of them and focus solely on the dance.

In order to create your own belly dancing costume you will need a few items. The materials needed are scarves or strips of fabric long enough to create a skirt, a heavy scarf or piece of fabric that can be used as a belt or tied around hips, a strong bra or a midriff baring shirt, beads, gem stones, sequins, tassels, fringe, needle, thread, and any other little accents, trinkets, or charms you choose. Remember that glass beads can be dangerous if they fall off of the costume. So try to stick with things that will not hurt your feet or break if you shake them off during your dance routine.

Now that you have assembled your materials you can create your belly dancing costume. Fold the heavy duty material or scarf into a belt that is wide enough to fit comfortably around your hips. Sew this material length wise until it is sturdy enough to hold shape. Next sew your scraves to the belt, and remember to sew them on the inside so your belt is on top. Also it is important to know if you would like your scarves to hang in the middle and the back, or if you would like the entire skirt encircled with them. Plan your skirt design beforehand and sew according to your design. Now you can add the fringe, sequins, beads, or trinkets that you like to your belt. Once your skirt is assembled you can add the embellishments of your choose to your bra or half shirt. Remember to sew everything very tightly because this belly dance costume will see a lot of movement.

With these few simple tips and ideas you will soon be on your way to creating your own personalized belly dance costume!

Diversity Themed Bulletin Board Ideas for Elementary Schools

Diversity is a common theme in many schools in this day and age. A diversity themed bulletin board is a great way to celebrate this theme in elementary schools. This article will discuss diversity themed bulletin board ideas for elementary schools and how to create these ideas.

Colors of the Rainbow

A fun and creative bulletin board idea that will help lead into a discussion about diversity is the colors of the rainbow bulletin board. For this idea you will need white or blue butcher paper, a pencil, paper plates, and a way to wash and dry the elementary school children's hands. You will also need red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple paint.

Start this diversity project by covering the bulletin board with the butcher paper. Use the pencil to draw a large arch in the middle of the bulletin board. The children will follow this guideline to create their rainbow. Then line up the children and pour red paint onto a paper plate.

Help kids place their hand in the paint and press it to the bulletin board. You may need a step stool so children can reach the top of the rainbow arch. Have students create the entire arch using their handprints. Then repeat the process with the rest of the colors in the rainbow. Make sure to watch the elementary school kids' hands in between colors so they do not mix. This bulletin board is a fun way to teach children about diversity.

I am Unique

Another great bulletin board for teaching elementary school kids about diversity is this idea. For this bulletin board idea you will need oak tag, scissors, a yard stick, a pencil, markers, and magazines. Help kids talk about diversity and what makes them different from others. Provide students with magazines and help them search for images that depict why they are unique.

While the students are cutting images from magazines cover the bulletin board with the oak tag. Then use the yard stick to divide the bulletin board up into as many squares as there are students. Next turn those squares into puzzle pieces by adding curves and funny angles. Remove the paper from the bulletin board. Cut out the puzzle pieces and give each student a piece.

Help elementary kids decorate their piece with the images they have gathered and their names. Then allow students to put their piece back up on the board where it belongs. If you have younger elementary students numbering the pieces is a good idea.

This elementary school bulletin board idea is a great way to introduce and teach students about diversity.

Dancing for Well-Being: Five Dances for Life

Dance is an amazing thing, and many people don't realize how dance helps you physically, mentally, and spiritually. Dancing is good for your soul. There are many reasons people have for not dancing, but these reasons can be easily debunked; here are five dances that can help improve our life in more ways than you can imagine.

Many people have excuses to not dance. Some people may think they have no rhythm, but they should simply remember that "the whole universe is in constant motion and you are probably not the exception to the rule" (Roth, 1998, p. 17). Some people may not dance because they do not like their bodies, but they should remember that dancing will work away any extra pounds. Whatever you don't work off is "meant to be part of you" (Roth, 1998, p.17). I find one of my biggest excuses is lack of time, but I have realized that the smallest amount of time spent dancing can change my mood completely. I have been figuring out different ways to incorporate dancing even if it is only for a few minutes into my daily schedule. Even if I only dance to one song a day I still feel better.

There are 5 rhythms of the soul, and they are known as flowing, staccato, chaos, lyrical, and stillness (Roth, 1998). Flowing is about being flexible like liquid. In flowing there are no "separations or distinctions between things, there's only continuous change" and flowing is the "rhythm of the earth" (Roth, 1998, p.52). In order to practice flowing dance "imagine that you are all circles and curves, arms round, spine undulating, hands soft, hips rolling gently, knees loose" and " let whatever you are feeling unravel" (Roth, 1998, p.55). Staccato is more of a tense dance. It is a type of dance that creates all "kinds of angles and edges like geometry in motion" (Roth, 1998, p.83). The dance of chaos is spontaneous and intuitive. It is meant to "dive below the surface... and get in touch with our whims, our impulses, and our poetic intelligence" (Roth, 1998, p.118). Lyrical dancing is one of the hardest dances for most people because it you have to experience it to understand it, but I feel comfortable practicing this dance, and I believe that my dramatic nature and love of dance makes this form of dance more natural to me. Perhaps this type of dance comes natural to me because in lyrical dancing "we realize we are works-in-progress" and this is an important lesson I try to remember at all times (Roth, 1998, p.156). Stillness is what I would call a typical type of meditation. It is about moving in "super-slow motion" and focusing your attention to "the ebb and flow of your breath, the beat of your heart, the pulsing of cells" (Roth, 1998, p.180).

Dancing is good for the soul, and people should dance more often. Nothing is more natural and pure than dancing. Let go of your excuses why you do not dance, and Dance!

Reference:
Roth, G. (1998). Sweat your prayers: movement in spiritual practice. New York, NY: Penguin Putnam.

Easy and Inexpensive Personalized DIY Summer Wedding Invitations

Weddings are a sacred and special time, and it is important for everything to be perfect and personalized. Many things that you need for a special wedding can be made by you at home. Wedding invitations are extremely important when planning your wedding because it is the first step that you take. It is the beginning of a beautiful thing, and should be made to express you and your future spouse perfectly. Invitations for your summer wedding can be made at home cheaply and personally.

A supply that you will find to be most necessary is a heavy cardstock of thickness, color, and design, of your desired choice. I think most common color is an off white color. You can buy bulk cardstock or you can find special paper that has already printed patterns on it. Paper also has different textures so this is important to make note of when choosing papers.

After you have chosen appropriate paper for your invitations you can decide if you want to completely print your invitations or if you want to hand write them. All you will need for handwritten invitations is some nice markers. You can choose whatever colors you like, and there are even gold, silver, and copper colored markers that will work well. If you decide to print the invitation you can find basic templates for envelopes and invitations on Microsoft word. There are also many different fonts that you can use right in the program. You can also choose to incorporate a picture you and your fiance which can be copied and pasted into the card. Some more ideas to suit a summer wedding are pictures of a sunset at a beach or brightly colorful summer flowers. Many nice sayings and wedding invitation formats can be found on the internet as well.

Other supplies that can be used for your wedding invitations are ribbon, faux flowers, sequins and pearls. All of these items can be used as embellishments for your decorations. Another fun way to embellish your wedding cards is using paper cut outs. You can cut out various shapes of flowers from different colored paper to suit the theme of a summer wedding, and you can layer them on top of each other. Adding pearls or pretty beads also make these cards pretty and special. A simple bow can be made from ribbon and it can be glued to the card to make it tool like a present.

All of these ideas can help you make your own personal summer wedding invitations. Make sure no matter which methods you decide to employ that you love the finish product, and remember to enjoy the process because this is something you will remember forever!

Learn the Basics of Weaving

Weaving is a form of art that has been popular throughout time; many cultures used woven tapestries to document their history, and many people still today weave as a passion. Weaving is easy to do and it does not require costly items. I have always wanted to try weaving, but I was always slightly intimidated by it. I have found it to be relaxing and meditative. It is also easy and inexpensive to make a loom at home, and here or some instructions in the basics of weaving to get you started on your first woven masterpiece.

A simple loom can be made at home from cardboard. Do not use a piece of cardboard bigger than 8x10 inches because it will become "unwieldy" (Young, 1972, p.173). Now cut notches in the top and bottom of the cardboard; these notches should be from a quarter of and inch to half an inch apart. The closer the notches are the tighter the weave will be (Young, 1972). Remember to use a ruler to make sure the notches on both ends match up correctly.

Now make a knot in the end of the yarn and "slide it into the upper left hand notch" (Young, 1972, p.174). Next wind the yarn into the bottom notch, around the back, and back up to the next top notch, and continue with this until all of the notches are full; this is called the warp.

Now thread a knitting needle or ruler through the strands going under and over each strand of the warp. Wrap your weaving yarn around a small piece of cardboard and slide it through the space left by the ruler. Remember to leave at least 3 inches of yarn outside of your warp; this will be woven into the piece later (Young, 1972). Now using a second knitting needle or ruler pick up the opposite threads from your first ruler. Slide your yarn through this spot and use the ruler to push those threads up so they are tight and even together. Continue alternating rulers until your piece is complete. When you have completed the weaving of the piece simple tie the final piece to one of the cords your have been weaving through. To secure the entire project remove the strands two at a time from the cardboard and tie the two strands together in a knot. This will make sure none of your weaving comes undone.

This simple craft is rewarding, and it can be done with scraps of yarn and cardboard that would normally be thrown away. So now that you have the basics you can become a weaving master!

References:

Young, J. (1972). Woodstock craftsman manual. New York, NY: Praeger
Publishers.

Recycled Summer Crafts for Kids

 

Summer time is when the kids are free of school, and they love to run rampant. It is important to have some projects on hand to keep them busy. With the kids running around there is bound to be more garbage and I have compiled some fun projects that will keep the kids busy while recycling waste products.

Juice box dolls are fun and easy to create. This project requires markers, paper, wiggly eyes, yarn, felt, and any other fun items for decorating your doll. First make sure the juice boxes are empty and dry. A little left over juice will ruin your project. Next wrap the juice box in paper like a present and tape the ends. Add the yarn or felt for hair and draw a smile on the box. Glue on the eyes and glue four strips of paper onto the sides and bottoms of box as arms. These cute little dolls are fun and easy to make.

A cool and kooky monster can be made using an old sandwich bag box. This sandwich box monster is a great project for kids because they can personalize it by using their imaginations. For this project you will need an old plastic sandwich bag box, paint, paper, glue, and any other random fun items you can find. Paint the box whatever color you like. When it has dried add eyes and paint teeth around the hole for a perfect monster mouth. Now add paper arms and a tail for detail. You can also add yarn for hair, felt for ears, and cardboard for spikes if you like. Let your imagination run wild with this project.

Cereal box summer scrapbooks are a great way to recycle old cereal boxes and other paper products. All you will need for this project is an empty old cereal box, wrapping paper, glue, yarn, old newspapers, or brown paper bags. Start this project by cutting the top, bottom, and right side of the cereal box. Next wrap the opened box in wrapping paper and glue it down. After it has dried punch 2 holes in the front and back of the box closer to the top and bottom.

Next cut sheets of newspaper or brown paper bag to fit inside the scrapbook cover and punch holes in the paper in the same spots as the box. Pull a piece of yarn through the top hole on the back of the box and through the top holes of the papers; finish by pulling it through the top hole in the front of the box as well. Repeat the same process for the bottom holes with the other end of the string of yarn. Tie the yarn in the front and use markers or paint to personalize the cover of your scrapbook.

You and your children can add pictures and other things to the scrapbook over time to create memories that last forever. This project will provide hours of fun, and it is a great way for kids to store all their fun memories of summer.

There are many ways to recycle things found around your home to create amusing craft projects for kids, and I hope I have inspired to you get started with some projects of your won this summer!

How to Make Polymer Clay Daisy Pendants

Polymer clay is one of my favorite materials to use for everything. It is cheap, easy to use, and it bakes hard right in your oven in no time. There are so many fun things you can make with polymer clay, and this article will describe how to make a daisy flower pendant using polymer clay and a little imagination.

The simplest flower pendant you can make using polymer clay is a daisy. To make this flower you will need white, yellow, and green clay; you will also need a wooden skewer or knitting needle, a pin, and a knife. This project is easy, and children of many ages can complete it with adult supervision.

Now start by making a small orange ball for the inside of the flower. Now make several small white balls that are about the same size of the orange ball. Now roll those balls into tube like shapes, and press them slightly flat. Pinch one end of these white petals and press them onto the orange base. When all the petals are attached use the pin to poke some small holes into the orange ball; this will give the flower a more realistic look.

Use a small tube of green clay to make a circle around the skewer. Next take one or two small green balls and press them slightly flat. Now pinch both sides of the green shapes so they resemble leaves or a diamond shape. Using the knife cut an indented line down the middle of each leaf, and push them onto the green circle.

Next use the knife to cut some light lines in the green ring where you will be attaching the flower head. If you have some liquid sculpt you should add some to the lines you have made. Press the flower head gently on these lines until it sticks. Bake in the oven at the specified degrees for about 15 minutes. Make sure to check the flower so it does not cook to long.

Remove the flower and let cool for about half an hour before you remove the skewer. Be gentle because you do not want to break the base. Simply string the pendant on some ribbon or a nice chain, and it is ready to wear.

If you would like to add some special details to this pendant you can use acrylic paint after the pendant has been baked and cooled. To add some pretty color to the petals brush a little paint onto the inside of the petals and brush a little pigment powder on the centers after the paint is almost dry. You can also add some glitter to the edges for fun. These pendants are a lot of fun to make, and they can be personalized to suit anyone's tastes.

How to Throw an 80's Style Dinner Party

Dinner parties are a lot of fun if you make them fun, but if you just throw a dinner party there might not be as much to talk about as you think. A themed dinner party is always fun, and this article will teach you how to throw an 80's style dinner party.

First thing to remember when you throw an 80's dinner party is that the invitations must tell guests to some in 80's apparel. As the host you will also have to wear your 80's gear, and make sure your home is flash backed to the 80's. In order to decorate your home appropriately hang posters of popular 80's stars on the walls such as Madonna, Michael Jackson, Blondie, Prince, The Cars, and whoever else you loved in the 80's. Also remember to have lots of 80's compilation music playing. Decorate your home with neon color streamers and neon colored balloons. Metallic streamers and any other cheesy decorations you can find will also suit this décor. Don't forget to represent the 80's movies either, and hang posters from your favorite movies like Goonies, ET, and Transformers.

Food from the 80's was not so healthy, but it as popular so for your party you will need some 80's style food. Ranch flavored Doritos were a food that originated in the 80's and it is a perfect snack for the table. Tab cola is another uniquely 80's item, and it should be served in the cans. Many junk foods were popular in the 80's such as fruit snacks and fruit roll ups, charms pops, raisins, tootsie rolls, and pop rocks. For a main course for this dinner party fast food should be your entrée. McDonald's, Taco Bell, and Pizza Hut were huge in the 80's so stock up on a bunch of these items for your party. Jello pudding pops are the perfect dessert for an 80's themed diner party, and no one can forget Bill Cosby in the commercial.

Every party needs some fun things to do, and one game that should be played at an 80's dinner party is twister. Another fun game that you can play at your party is Pacman, and many stored sell a Pacman controller that plugs right into your television. You can also have an 80's karaoke contest if your guests are brave enough, or you can have a name that tune contest with only 80's music. You can also have a biggest hair contest, and remember to give out prices like leg warmers and blow up guitars.

This party will be a blast from the past with these fun tips!

How to Make Miniature Household Items for Dollhouses Out of Recycled Items

I love making things, and I love recycling; and I ultimately enjoy being able to combined both of these hobbies. So when I started building my first dollhouse; I realized that there were so many things that get thrown out that are perfect for dolls to play with. Here are some ideas on how to recycle your garbage into miniature treasures.

One of the most versatile and unexpected items that I love to save and create with are empty coffee creamer containers. These little containers can be painted silver and a piece of wire can be attached to them as a handle; this way they can be used as a bucket or pail. You can paint them black or orange and use them as pots for flowers. You can even add a nice little border or trim to make them look pretty. You can also paint then several different colors and make them into lamp shaded. A needle, pin, or piece of wire can be glued to a couple beads in order to make into the base of a lamp. Attach the top of the wire to the bottom of the creamer and you have a lamp.

Empty battery packages make nice televisions as well. The best part of these mini TVs' is that you can change the picture when ever you like. All you need is to cut the plastic edge to the clear box is smooth, and use black electrical tape to tape around the sides. You can also extend a border across the bottom and paint buttons onto it. Next take a picture from a magazine, or draw your own picture, and glue it to the back of the television. Lean your television up against a wall or paint some cardboard black and attach it to the back using tape so you cal lift it and change the picture inside the television.

Another fun miniature recycling project is for the artist in all of us. It is simple and fun to make. You will need a few match sticks or toothpicks. Cut them into smaller pieces and color each one with a different color marker. Next put them all into a little match box that has been painted black. Write crayon on the top in white paint and display half open.

I hope this article has helped you to make many little things for your dollhouse; I also hope that when you are throwing things away you think about what else they could be used for before you trash them.

How to Make a Princess Fairy Crown

Every little girl wants to be a princess at some point, and most little girls love fairies. I have a three-year-old niece, and she loves to play dress up. I am always trying to figure out new fun projects that she will enjoy. For her third birthday she was having a pink flower party, so I made her a pink princess fairy flower crown. This article will teach you how to make one.

First you will need some pipe cleaners; you can use all different colors, but I used pink because it was the party theme. You will also need a hot glue gun, one or two hot glue sticks, and ribbon. To add some fun decorations you can also add fake flowers, glitter, and fake gemstones to this crown.

The first step to making this crown requires that you make a base for it. This can be done by simply using several pipe cleaners. Start by making a loop at the end of one pipe cleaner. Wrap the end of the pipe cleaner tight so the loop stays, and then you can twist another pipe cleaner around the first one to elongate the base. Make a loop at the other end the same way you made the first. This is the perfect base for a crown.

Now you will use some other pipe cleaners to add height to the crown. I like to start by finding the middle of the base. You can figure this out by folding the base in half. Now find the middle of another pipe cleaner and twist the two middles together. Now make loops on either side of the middle using the ends of the pipe cleaners. These loops will make an M shape on the base of the crown.

Next using another pipe cleaner you can add even more height, and this will make the crown even more detailed. Start by twisting the ends of the new pipe cleaner to the far right and left sides of the M shape; next twist the top of the pipe cleaner you have just attached so that it has a loop. Now you can add other pipe cleaners to the base to create more intricate designs, or you can leave the base the way it is.

Now using your ribbon and hot glue gun, glue one end of the ribbon to the far side of the M shape. Wrap the ribbon around the crown until you reach the loop and glue the ribbon to the end before the loop. Now tie some more ribbon through the loop by folding it in half and pushing the ribbon loop through the pipe cleaner loop. Now pull the ribbon ends though the ribbon loop, and pull it tightly. Repeat this on the other side, and you will use these ribbons to tie the crown around your head.

I like to add fake flowers and gem stones to the crown to make it really stand out and sparkle; I will use the glue gun to add these special details. This crown is a beautiful creation for any little girl, and it is a fun project to help inspire their imagination.

Fairy Wings: Fun and Easy to Make

At some point in almost every little girl's life they dream of being a fairy, and it is not always easy to find fairy wings. When you do eventually find them they are either uncomfortable or they are expensive, but fairy wings are easy and fun to make. This is a great project to do at birthday parties or just for fun.

To make fairy wings you will need foam sheets, ribbon, a hot glue gun, felt, scissors, glitter glue, pipe cleaners, and gemstones. Sometimes it is a good idea to look at pictures of fairy wings and butterflies in order to get a better idea of what you want your fairy wings to look like.

To start you will need to cut butterfly wings out of the foam sheet. In order to make simple shaped butterfly wings fold the foam in half evenly. Next using a marker cut a v shape in the opposite side of the folded side. Next unfold the sheet and cut a v shape in the top and the bottom. You can add other details by cutting the wings into differently shapes and angles but these three cuts will give you a very basic wing shape.

Now that you have your wings it is time to make them stand up; first you will need to decide which side is the front and which side is the back. Use pipe cleaners to add strength to the back of the wings. Start by gluing a pipe cleaner to the center where all the wings meet. Glue three or four pipe cleaners from the bottom of the wing through the middle. Repeat this process for all of the wings, and you can curve the end of the pipe cleaners for a prettier effect if you like.

To make these wings wearable you will need to add some ribbons. Cut a square of felt that fits in the center of the wings. This piece of felt will also cover the ends of the pipe cleaners. Now cut two lengths of ribbons that are long enough to fit from your back to around your shoulders. You will be tying these ribbons so make sure to leave enough room for that as well. Now glue the middles of the ribbons to the part of the felt square that will be glued to the wings. Next glue the felt to the wings and allow to dry.
Now use the glitter glue and gems to add details to your wings, and when they are dry they are ready to wear. Just tie each side to your shoulders and you can be a fairy whenever you like!

How to Make a Dreamcatcher Using Things Found Around Your Home

Dreamcatchers have a long history, and it is said that dreamcatchers should be hung over your bed so that the good dreams can pass through the web and the bad dreams can be caught in it. Dreamcatchers are an inexpensive and easy project to create at home in your spare time, and they require very little supplies and only one tool. Here are the complete instructions for making your own dream catcher at home, so have fun, and as always happy crafting!

Creating your own personal dreamcatcher does not require many supplies at all, and some of these supplies you probably have laying around your home.

Scissors are a no brainer, and most of us have some yarn or twine stuffed in a drawer some where.

For this project you will need 3 feathers, and these can be purchased at most local craft stores or found in nature.

You will also need some branches or vines. Many craft stores and floral stores sell these, and if you live in a rural or suburban area they should be easy enough to find. You may also find it easy to buy a woven wreath and disassemble it.

Beads are a fun touch to this project, but they are not necessary. Adding beads will help you personalize this dreamcatcher, and when you pick out beads remember to make sure the match the thread you have decided to use. Beads can be purchased or made from things found around your home.

Creating the hoop base of the dreamcatcher may seem a little tricky, but it is harder than it looks. Just make sure to hold the vines tightly and keep your string taut and you will have no trouble with this part.

To start you will need to hold all of the sticks together at the end so that they are all about the same length on that side. Next use a 12 foot piece of yarn to tie a knot around that end.

Then while holding that end tightly in your hand, pull the vines into a circle until the other ends meet, and the circle size you is good for you. Now use the sting to tie the 2 sides together.

Now simply keep wrapping the yarn around the base while keeping the yarn taut. Remember to keep the vines tight as well, and wrap them down where they pull out.

After you have wrapped it tightly all around you will have completed the base of your dreamcatcher. Now just tie this string into a knot using the end of the string you originally knotted. Remember not to cut the string because it will be the main part of the web.

Now you will use the string from the previous step make a loop about a fifth of the way around the hoop and stick the string through the top of the loop to form a loose knot. Continue with this process until you have completed made it all the way around the hoop, and your web looks like a polygon. Keep going around the circle until you have reached the center

Now just tie a finishing knot and you are almost complete!

Fold a foot long piece of yarn in half twice, and knot it at the end.

Next place the loop on the top of the dream catcher and push the knot through the loop.

Now that the main part of your dreamcatcher is made it is time to add that special touch that will make it one of a kind and all of your own.

Start by cutting 3 pieces of string about a foot and a half long each. Now fold them in half and tie your feathers to the bottom of each.

Next add the beads you have chosen and knot the string about and below the beads to keep them in place.

Knot the top of the string as well, and secure these strands to the bottom of the dream catcher the way you secured the hanging loop in the previous chapter.

Now that these steps are complete you have made your own personal dreamcatcher that you can hang anywhere you like.

For more information, tips, tricks, and detailed photo instructions visit this link: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=24317307

Hope you enjoyed this project as much as I did and remember you can't wait for inspiration sometimes you have to club it over the head!

Ethics in Accounting, Financial Decision-Making, and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act

 

Ethics are important accounting and financial decision-making for several reasons, but the most important reason for valuing ethics in the finances and accounting is the success of a company. If a company does not value ethics it will lose profitability because other companies and customers will not want to deal with and support it. This article will discuss the importance of ethics in accounting and financial decision-making; it also reflects on the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and its impact on accounting and financial decision making.

Several key concepts of ethics in accounting and financial decision-making are trust, confidentiality, collaboration, and a code of ethics (Shanker). Trust and confidentiality go hand-in-hand in business accounting because trust is essential if a company wants loyal customers; confidentiality is also an integral aspect of financial dealings because privacy is often a concern for many companies and customers. Collaboration is another area of financial decision-making that is relevant because ethical practices promote collaboration (Shanker). A code of ethics is necessary in accounting and financial decision-making because it provides guidelines and standards for employees on all levels.

The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 "was passed in response to the financial scandals such as Enron and WorldCom," and it inevitably had a strong impact on accounting and financial decision-making (The Act Itself, pp. 1). This law required publicly traded companies to be much more accountable for their finances. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act set new regulations and penalties for public companies to provide investors with security. This act also caused the creation of "the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, or PCAOB, which is in charge of overseeing, regulating, inspecting, and disciplining accounting firms in their roles as auditors of public companies" (The Act Itself, pp.3). This new law impacted accounting and financial decision making because it required companies to be responsible for their financial decisions; it also regulated the way board members and auditors interact, as well as, recognizing and regulating the problem of auditors working for companies that they have personal interest in.

Ethics plays an important role in accounting and financial decision-making because money is an area where greed and deception easily come into play. Many companies can easily lose their success because of unethical practices, and laws such as the Sarbanes-Oxley Act help to regulate financial practices of companies and create an ethical code of conduct to follow.

Reference

Shanker, S. (n.d.). Importance of Ethics in Accounting & Financial Decision Making | eHow.com.eHow | How to Videos, Articles & More - Trusted Advice for the Curious Life | eHow.com. Retrieved June 23, 2011, from http://www.ehow.com/about_6463277_importance-accounting-financial-decision-making.html

The Act Itself. (n.d.).SOX-Online: The Vendor-Neutral Sarbanes-Oxley Site. Retrieved June 23, 2011, from http://www.sox-online.com/act.html