Photo by: Hendrixson

1. Declutter
Do a walkthrough of the main rooms where guests will be, pick up clutter as you go. Don’t worry about putting things in their proper places. Just pickup items such as mail and shoes. Then temporarily store in a box or in a spare closest so they are out of sight.

2. Quickly Disinfect
Carry these simple items in a convenient cleaning caddy so you can quickly move from room to room.

• Clorox Disinfecting Wipes are great for quick cleaning and disinfecting. Use to wipe down the kitchen countertops, bathroom countertops, outside of toilet, and the outer edge of the tub.
• Use a damp cloth to remove fingerprints from stainless steel surfaces and for dusting wood furniture.
• Clean the mirrors with a glass cleaner, such as Windex, or vinegar and wipe with newspaper. Avoid paper towels, which leave behind a lent residue.
• When it comes to toilet bowl cleaning, ditch your germy, inconvenient toilet bowl brush. Instead try the disposable Clorox ToiletWand. Once your toilet is clean simply toss the head in the trash and flush.

3. Dust
Dust all hard surface furniture, TV, picture frames and collectibles on display. Then, Swiffer and vacuum the floors in the kitchen, living room, and bathroom.

4. Empty
Put all dirty dishes into the dishwasher and empty the kitchen and bathroom trashcans.

5. Restock
In the bathroom put out fresh hand towels, a box of tissues, an extra roll of toilet paper, air freshener, and hand soap.

Photo by: MoralesDirect

6. Set the Mood
Fluff and arrange throw pillows and push in sofa cushions. Always have a candle ready to light or some type of air freshener available to give the room an instant aroma. And, finally dim the lights and light the candles. Nothing hides cleaning imperfections better than dim, elegant lighting.

Now put a smile on your face, there are people at the door! Hopefully these six quick cleaning tips will help you the next time unexpected guests call to say they are in the neighborhood.

Slydial.com
…For those of us who wanna call, but don’t really wanna talk. Slydial is the self-described voice alternative to text messaging. You need to communicate with someone but, for whatever reason, you don’t want to actually have a conversation. Everyone’s busy and we don’t always have time to talk. Use Slydial.com to connect to a person’s voicemail directly. And you don’t even have to sign-up to use it!

How it works:

1. Dial 267-SLYDIAL (267-759-3425) from any landline or mobile phone.
2. At the voice prompt, enter the U.S. mobile phone number of the person you want to slydial.
3. You will be directly connected to their voicemail. Leave them a voicemail, sit back and relax.

When to Slydial?
Even though you’ve a whole day planned with your girlfriend for her birthday, you have to be the first person to call and wish her a happy birthday at the stroke of midnight. But, you’re out with your friends and don’t feel like talking for an hour. Leave her a sweet voicemail! You’ll see her soon.

Getmooh!
Use this automated call back service to get you out of awkward and unwanted situations. Get Me Out Of Here makes escaping easy. You set up a time for your cell phone to be called and select the recording that you want to be played when you answer. It’s super simple and comes right in the knick of time!

Bringo
An awesome tool if you’re sick and tired of waiting on the phone in line to talk to customer service agents. On Bringo.com you select the company you’re trying to reach. Enter your phone number. Wait a few seconds to connect. Then simply answer your phone when it rings!

There are tons of silly cell phone trick websites out there. Like the one that dials whatever phone number you choose a specific, designated amount of times. And then there’s the one that lets you send prank text messages from a fake caller ID. Use at your own risk…ENJOY!

Photo by: jadean

You can get your pets used to the busy holiday schedules and even include them in the festivities. The holidays bring fun, but don’t forget they also present a host of hazards to pets. It’s important to be aware of these dangers to keep pets safe.

Dealing with Holiday Pet Stress

Are you having a party at your Dallas apartment this holiday season? With holiday parties and dinners, your home may develop loud, joyful noise or a lot of foot traffic. If your pets are not accustom to this setting, it could cause them to become overly anxious when the holiday fun begins.

Pet stress can also be caused from lack of attention and the many changes of the home environment. With some planning, you can be sure your pets will be comfortable during the holiday season. Keep these simple things in mind when creating a pet-friendly holiday.

Quiet Space – Try setting aside a quiet space just for your pets. This way they can retreat to this area when there’s just too much commotion in another area of the house.

Sticking to a diet – With all of the yummy holiday cooking, avoid feeding your pet leftovers. Keep your pets on their normal diet because sudden changes in your dog or cat’s diet may cause stomachaches, vomiting and diarrhea.

Photo by: horizontal.integration

Prevent poisoning – Avoid using ivy, mistletoe, and poinsettias in your holiday décor. These poisonous plants can be deadly if eaten by most animals. If you desire the look of these holiday plants, go with faux plants instead.

Avoid accidents – Has your cat ever climbed your Christmas tree? Protect against the tree tipping over by securing it with fishing line anchored into the ceiling.

Traveling – Make sure your pets are secured and not allowed to roam if you are traveling during the holidays. Use a travel crate or special seat belt harness to keep them safe. If traveling with your pet is not an option, be sure to schedule adequate holiday pet care for your companion. Have a pet sitter stay with your pet or arrange for them to be boarded.

Show some love – And lastly try to involve your pets with the holiday festivities. Purchase a new holiday bandanna or festive sweater. Be sure to reward them for good pet behavior by buying a special treat that they will enjoy.

Photo by: Jeremy Keith

Sandwich Recipes

One of the simplest things to do with leftover turkey meat is to make a sandwich. Below are some jazzed up sandwich recipes for your leftover turkey:

• Monte Cristo Sandwich Recipe
• Classic Club Sandwich Recipe
• Kraft Foods Ultimate Leftover Turkey Sandwich Recipe

Leftover Turkey Casseroles

If you have leftover vegetables from Thanksgiving dinner as well, just throw them into a casserole dish with some turkey. Check out these recipes for tasty casserole treats:

• Turkey Shepherds Pie
• Turkey and Wild Rice Casserole Recipe
• Recipe for Turkey Potato Casserole

Photo by: Kristen Plocinik

Turkey Soup, Chili and stew Recipes

An easy and delicious way to use up a lot of leftover turkey meat is to mix it in a pot or slow cooker for some steamy turkey soup or chili.

• Turkey Vegetable Soup Recipe
• Turkey and Stuffing Soup
• Enchilada Turkey Soup Recipe
• Turkey Chili Recipe
• Hearty Turkey Stew with Vegetables

Photo by: awhiskandaspoon

More Glorious Turkey Recipes!

For more yummy ways to use up all that leftover turkey, check out the tasty recipes below:

• Turkey Pot Pie Recipe
• Recipe for Turkey Quesadillas
• Spicy Turkey Burger Recipe
• Annie’s Turkey Salad Recipe
• Turkey Enchiladas
• Turkey Eggs Benedict
• Kentucky Hot Brown

Turkey can lose its appeal after you’ve spent a whole day stuffing yourself with it. Spice up that leftover turkey with these great recipes so it doesn’t go to waste. Some of them even call for leftover cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, stuffing and vegetables. So, you could clean out your Dallas apartment fridge and use up all of your leftovers with just a few dishes!

Photo By: Nick Slide

You’ve heard it all when it comes to water, but which statements should you trust? Water can’t perform miracles on your body, but there are benefits of drinking water that you should know about.

How much should I drink?

To get the fluids your body needs to stay hydrated, you don’t have to down eight 8 ounce glasses of plain water a day. You just have to take in about 2 liters of fluid a day. These fluids can come from foods or beverages that are water based or contain water. However, the Institute of Medicine recommends different quantities for different people:

• Men – 13 cups
• Women – 9 cups
• Pregnant/breastfeeding – 10 to 13 cups

Why drink water?

About 60% of your body weight is water. Water is highly involved in the functioning of your body. It carries nutrients to cells, allows for proper digestion and flushes toxins from major organs. So, replenishing the loss of water in your body is important for proper functioning.

Are you tired or prone to getting headaches?

It seems as though symptoms of dehydration would be fairly obvious, but you could be suffering from mild dehydration throughout the day and not realize it. Not having enough fluids in your body can cause headaches, muscle weakness, sleepiness and dizziness. If you’re not taking the time during your busy day to take a few swigs of water or to eat properly, your body may not be getting the fluids it needs to run at its best. If you feel thirsty, you’re already mildly dehydrated.

How much do you exercise a day?

If you are an avid runner or you are involved in active recreation often, then you need to replenish your body with water regularly. When you exercise you sweat and burn water with increased respiration. To compensate for this water loss in the body, you need to drink an additional 1 to 3 cups of water a day.

Is drinking water good for weight loss?

There are a lot of claims and studies out there about how drinking water will help you lose weight. The simple truth about this statement is that if you are drinking water, you aren’t drinking higher calorie sodas and beverages that contribute to your weight. Substituting high calorie drinks with water will reduce the amount of calories and sugar you take in throughout the day.

Where do you live?

If you live at a higher altitude or in a dry or hot climate, you may have to drink an extra amount of fluids a day to replenish your system. Living in Dallas during the summers can be brutally hot and increased amounts of water may be necessary. Check out this water calculator to see about how much water is recommended for you according to your location and body type.

The importance of drinking water and getting the proper amount of fluids shouldn’t be minimized. Overall it is necessary to get about eight 8 ounce glasses of fluids a day. Check out the Mayo Clinic website for more information about dehydration and fluid intake.

Ways to Maintain a Youthful Appearance

Clothing – Quality clothing is a must. Choose luxurious, beautifully made items from upscale department stores like Saks, Neimans, Bloomingdales and Macy’s. If money is a concern, shop the clearance racks. Fabrics like cashmere and satin look alluring and classy. Choose a more conservative style that doesn’t show too much arm or cleavage. Two-piece matching suits are out. Select separates to show off your style. Don’t wear the old clothes in your closet just because they are there…stay on top of current trends. Just make sure to keep your items simple and age-appropriate.

Hair – Keep your hairstyle consistent with the times. If you haven’t changed your style in several years, you most likely look outdated. One classy, but simple, hairstyle is the Updo. It’s good for the work day or a night out on the town. Learn how to do an updo in just two minutes!

Handbag – Your purse says a lot about you. Make sure you’re carrying something stylish and not an old lady bag. One fun idea for special occasions is renting a designer bag. What a way to show up looking young and rich without breaking the bank!

Jewelry – Simple is the key. Go with one or two nice pieces of jewelry. The last thing you want is gawdy overkill. Keep your outdated pieces in the jewelry box and pick up something new at an upscale department store, like Macy’s.

Glasses – Don’t call them ‘glasses’, eye fashion is now called ‘eyewear’. Stylish designer eyewear is in, especially in dark or bold colors. Some women even have a few different pairs for different occasions.

Skin – Anti-aging products are a must for reducing wrinkles and fine lines. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of products on the market. A good starting point is Drugstore.com.

Books with More Beauty Tips for Women Over 50

How to Not Look Old: Fast and Effortless Ways to Look 10 Years Younger, 10 Pounds Lighter, 10 Times Better by Charla Krupp

Over 50 Looking 30: Secrets of Staying Young by Howard Peiper M.D.

Steve Jurvetson

Choosing Your Camera And A Few Accessories

To start off with, you’ll need a good digital camera. Take your time and research how to buy a good digital camera. Talk to others who photograph as a hobby, read an online camera buying guide complete with reviews, and talk to salespeople to find out what features each camera on the market offers. Also be sure to hold the cameras you’re checking out. Check the weight and see how comfortable it feels in your hand.

Secondly, you’ll want to have a checklist of what you’ll be using your camera for. If, for example, you’re going to be doing a lot of photo printing or printing large pictures, you’ll need to be aware of the resolution each camera has. You will most likely need a camera with high resolution.

If you’ll be taking photos from afar but want a close up shot, you’ll need a good telephoto zoom lens. These are usually expensive but will get you the far away shots you’re looking for. Another important aspect to consider when purchasing a digital camera is the storage size. If you plan on taking a lot of pictures, inquire about storage size and the possibility of buying a memory card to increase that size (if necessary).

If doing some digital revamping of pictures is what interests you, make sure you buy a camera that comes with an editing software package. If you’re using programs like Photoshop or Photoshop Elements, check to make sure your new camera comes with a Photoshop plug-in.

Dallas Photography Classes

Once you’ve found the perfect camera for your hobby, photography classes should be the next step.

• The Dallas Darkroom
• The Art Institute of Dallas

There are usually continuing education photography classes held at junior colleges or classes that are offered for hobbyists. Taking a photography class will help help you study and learn the basic techniques of taking pictures as well as help you zero in on what type of photography interests you. The wonderful thing about photography as a hobby is that it’s something you can use to give as gifts or decorate your Dallas apartment. Capturing a beautiful image, developing it and then giving it as a gift or hanging it on a wall can be incredibly meaningful and special.

Check Out these Other Related Articles:

Digital Cameras are really Useful when Moving to an Apartment

Why Use Digital Photo Frames

Jun Acullador

1. Make a list of your priorities. What is it that you want most from a gym? Are you most interested in lifting weights and strength training? Be sure that the gym you select has state-of-the-art equipment. Is working out on cardio machines important? Check on the type of gym equipment offered. Chances are, you’ll want to rotate machines for fresher workouts, so it would best if the gym has treadmills, elliptical machines, stationary bikes, steppers and rowers, to name a few.

2. Do the math. If a gym offers only two spin classes a day, those classes might be packed. Go to the gym at the time of the class and see for yourself. If they only have five treadmills, there may be a line when you want to work out. The best way to check on the availability of exercise equipment is to visit the gym during the hours you will be using the facilities. If there is a wait for the machines you’d want – you are better off going to a gym that has more exercise equipment.

3. Mean, lean and – Clean. Your gym should not only offer you a wide variety of classes and exercise equipment, it should also be sanitary and clean. A gym is a natural breeding ground for germs and bacteria, so the manner in which the staff keeps the facilities clean is extremely important. Are the machines wiped down regularly? Many gyms even have bottles of cleaner at each machine for you to spray down the equipment before and after its use. Are the restrooms and locker rooms kept neat and clean? Would you feel comfortable taking a shower there after your workout>

4. Mean, lean and – Green. Joining a gym is not cheap – and you need to be cautious of the fine print in your contract. Be crystal clear on the duration of your membership and how to cancel if needed. Most gyms make you sign a contract for a specific period of time. If there is any chance that you may switch jobs or transfer jobs before that period is over, check with staff to see if you have an “out”. Be sure that you are able to afford the membership, and carefully check for any additional fees that may be tacked onto the monthly charge. Do you have to pay for that cycling class? If you want a personal trainer, what are the fees for that?

5. Make sure that you will have help when you need it. If you have never tried free weights, or weight machines, or an elliptical machine, you may need assistance the first few times. A good gym will have a staff member take you for a guided tour of the gym facility, including all the gym equipment, showing you how to use each one. Don’t be afraid to ask for further help once you join – that’s why there are staff members on hand. The staff should also go over any gym usage rules that apply to that facility.

Working out and getting your body fit and healthy is important, and finding a well-equipped, clean, encouraging gym environment can help move you toward your goal. Take your time to find the right facility for you and you’ll be seeing fantastic results in no time.

Other things to consider when choosing a gym

• Is there an acceptable child care facility with hours of operation that coincide with my workout?
• Is the gym open 24hrs? If not, are the hours of operation convenient for you and your schedule?
• How close is the gym from your home or your job? Will it be easy for you to get there? If it’s too far away you’ll find reasons to avoid going.
• Are you comfortable with the overall atmosphere of the gym? Are the members friendly? Do people come to workout or socialize or both?
• Ask for a complimentary workout before you sign your contract. If they don’t offer you a free pass to try their services, you may want to try another gym.

Your 1st Impression Sets the Tone

As far as job interview tips are concerned, there are many – and many of them have to do with first impressions. Make eye contact. Stand and sit up straight. Use body language to your advantage – and dress appropriately. If you have been wearing sweats and t-shirts for four years during college, wearing the same to an interview is not how to get a job.

So what if you’ve heard that the company you are interviewing with is all casual all the time – you can dress according to company policy when and if you get the job. For now, however, stick with standard business interview attire, which should be, in a word, as conservative as possible. Follow these dress for success job interview tips and you’ll be sure to make a great first impression:

1. Solid colored, conservative suits are the order of the day (at least of the interview day). Take care to make sure that your suit is well fitted and that you have a coordinated dress shirt or blouse underneath.
2. This is not the time to reach for the stiletto heels, ladies. A nice mid-height pump will do for your interview. Men’s dress shoes should be clean and shined. Even if you’ve never worn a pair of pantyhose, girls, this is the day to invest in a pair. Make sure they are close in color to the tone of your skin. Men should wear dark socks that match their suit.
3. Accessories should again be conservative. Men’s ties can be colorful, but no blinding patterns or colors. Don’t break out your favorite fish tie for this occasion, either – you want to portray a mature image to your potential employers. Women shouldn’t overdo the jewelry, make-up or perfume.
4. Bring a nice briefcase or portfolio, (in other words, no beat-up leather allowed) with you to the interview. And for goodness sake, trim up your nails.
5. Think about your hair before the day of the interview too, both men and women should have neat and professional-looking hairstyles.

Of course, the secret of how to get a job is not totally dependent on how you look, but presenting yourself as a neat, orderly person who cares about his or her appearance is important. First impressions are everything – help your job search near your Dallas apartment along with taking the time to dress for success.

You might choose to make your Halloween costumes at home or buy them from a store that sells Halloween party supplies. There are many silly costumes out there that cater to guy duos or small groups, meaning you and your roommate can sport a costume for two…or more.

Some Great Costume Ideas for Halloween:

American Idol: David Cook and David Archuleta

Photo by: Bright Star

Barack Obama and John McCain

iPods

Photo by: davemorin

Superheros

The Blue Man Group

Photo by: The Eggplant

Remember, whatever costume you choose, wear it with confidence. When it comes to good costumes, it’s all about the attitude!