Guess who is getting one year older?

Guess who is getting one year older? I am! I turned 35 today! Well, time really flies when you are having fun! 

Sure, getting older sucks for the most part especially physically which means I have less metabolism now and it's incredibly hard to shed all those extra pounds (boy, I missed my 20-something skinny size zero body where I looked good in absolutely everything!). Now with the extra pounds I carried around my tummy, thighs, legs and arms, I have to be very careful with the kind of clothes I pick!

However, the good thing about getting older is I have equipped with better skills (people skills, cooking skills, make-up skills, etc) and my taste and style (in fashion and decorating) is getting better, in general. I have also learned to be more patient and not sweat the small stuff as much. I am still far from being perfect but I hope to become a better person as time goes by.

So what plans do I have today? Not much. Hubby will be taking us to our favorite restaurant for some fancy and delicious sushis tonight, I can't wait! I have also received two pair of beautiful shoes as presents. Besides home goods, I am obsessed with gorgeous handbags and shoes! These are the ones that I picked!

LUMA

LUMA

I have always love the look of pretty closed toe shoes and this one comes without the discomfort of high heels and painful blisters, what's not to love? They are casual and stylish with a hint of understated glam, comfy to boot and goes well with everything, definitely my kind of shoes! Now you know why I needed to get two pairs in different colors! :) I will be wearing one of these for my celebration tonight!

I am fairly easy to please. Two pair of nice shoes and a nice dinner is enough to make me a happy girl. What about you? What is your ideal birthday like? I would love to know!

Aren’t All Wine Glasses the Same?

Many new wine drinkers can be overwhelmed by the extensive selection of glassware associated with enjoying various types of fine wine. Wine glasses are made in an endless number of variations, but with the highest quality glassware, these differences are far more than just cosmetic. The construction of your wine glass can have an enormous effect on the experience of savoring your wine, and the proper glassware can make the best qualities of a prized vintage shine through to even the most inexperienced wine drinker.

Rim

A wine glass rim is where the drinker’s mouth makes its first contact with the wine of choice, and so is critical aspect of its design. Quality wine glasses feature precision cut rims to enable undisturbed wine flow from the glass as well as minimize its effect on the flavor of the wine. A glass with an inferior rim enhances the taste of the crystal rather than the wine, negatively impacting its full character.

Bowl

The bowl of a wine glass is the part that physically contains the wine, and common wine glass designs feature bowls that grow slimmer toward the top to direct the aromas of the wine toward the nose and mouth of the drinker to be inhaled with a sip.

Different bowls are made for various types of wine, but a good rule of thumb is that red wine glasses have large, shallow bowls to showcase the bold nature of a deep, rich vintage while small, slender bowls are more appropriate for subtle whites to funnel their more delicate profiles to the drinker.

Base

A wine glass typically starts with a stabilizing base known as a foot, which lets the glass stand upright. The foot is attached to the stem, which allows the drinker to hold the wine without the heat from their body bringing a chilled wine to too high a temperature, which can dramatically impact the flavor. Some wine glasses may even have flat bottoms, lacking stems and feet entirely to take advantage of this effect for wines that are best served at a warmer temperature.

Color

The clearer a wine glass is, the more it contributes to the visual experience by allowing the true appearance of the wine to show through. The best wine glasses are unadorned and crystal clear, allowing the wine itself to serve as embellishment. Colored and ornate wine glasses offer variety, but the beauty in a glass of wine is in its color and character, and a clear wine glass is a blank canvas that puts the true artistry of a fine wine on full display.

There are many factors that determine the ideal glass for a wine, and understanding the construction of a wine glass is a helpful tool in finding the perfect glass to accompany your choice of wine. While food pairings and personal preference are equally important to the experience of a fine wine, the proper glassware can ensure it puts its best sip forward.

Five Home Improvements That Will Increase The Value Of Your House!

Thinking of selling your home? Before you put your house on the market, consider ways in which you can increase its value. You might have to pay out a bit of money but when you sell the house you are more likely to make a big profit. You need to be smart with your spending and only invest your money in home improvements that will get the best return. It is surprising how much of a difference to the price of your house some home improvements can make. Here are 5 home improvements that are likely to increase the value of your home.

1. An extension

Adding an extension to your house can help increase its value significantly. However, it does depend on where you put the extension and whether it blends with the rest of your house. Speak to an architect or professional builder about possible extension ideas before going ahead. Having a professional opinion can make a huge difference to the end result. You can either add a whole new extra room or simply make one room in your house, such as your lounge or kitchen much bigger.

2. Redecorate or get a new kitchen

When people view a house one of the key rooms they tend to focus on is the kitchen. You always remember the kitchen when you go into someone’s house. New buyers are looking for a kitchen that is well laid out, efficient and of course stylish and great to look at. You can either invest in a brand new kitchen to wow potential buyers or improve your existing kitchen by redecorating. A coat of paint and new cabinets can help to transform your kitchen.

3. Conservatory

A new conservatory can deliver a 108 per cent return, according to UK Business Zopa. A conservatory is an added extra that many people look for when buying a home. It can certainly wow potential buyers during viewings and make the difference between buying a house or not. A conservatory essentially provides a whole extra room to your house, increasing its size.

4. Improve your garden

According to Paul From Peak Architects “How a garden looks is extremely important when selling a home. If you have an overgrown garden that needs a lot of work then potential buyers will instantly be put off”. The garden is an important part of the overall package. Get some gardeners in or get to work yourself and make your garden look impressive. Consider putting some decking in your garden as this is another home improvement that can help to add to the value of your house. Decking is also easy to maintain and it looks very attractive.

5. Get double glazing

Potential buyers will be instantly put off if they realize your house does not have double glazing. It is a must have feature in all modern homes, especially those that are just about to go on the market. Double glazing will make your house more energy efficient and warmer which will most certainly appeal to prospective buyers. According to thisismoney.co.uk, double glazing can add up to 10% of the value of a home. 

Product review- DormCo.com products!

Lately, I was contacted by DormCo.com if I would like to receive some products to try. After checking out their wonderful website, I immediately agreed because frankly, I can't believe they offer so many things I needed! (even though I not a student living in a dorm anymore) :)

If you are unfamiliar, DormCo.com is a college dorm supplies superstore and provides the widest selection of college dorm essentials at the lowest price. Honestly, I can't believe my eyes when I saw their low prices for some of the things that other stores sell for so much more! The best part is they offer shipping for only $2.95 on your entire order, how fantastic! 

I love so many of the fabulous and nifty items they offer on their website. Below are some of my favorites! 

Midea College Fridge With Freezer- 3.1 Cu Ft- Stainless Steel

Gold Zee Designer Removable Wallpaper

Royalton Eco- Friendly Woven College Rug- Celery And White

3-In-1 Multifunction Breakfast Deluxe- Black

Rollie- Easy Egg Cooker

Navy White Cotton Twin XL Comforter Set- College Ave

The Converting Oversized Hamper- Basket Or Tote

Rapid Ramen Cooker

College Trunks- Armored- Space Saver Mini- Trunk

College students or not, the items above are super cool to have, don't you think? Honestly, I can easily find 50 items from their website that I wanted for myself! :)

For today's review, I have selected these fabulous products!

First item: 

 The Sorority College Dorm Trunk- White

I am in love with my gorgeous dorm trunk! The hardware and details are simply beautiful. Measuring at 29" L x 20" W x 14" H, it is huge and spacious. I also like that it comes in 2 wheels so you can transport your items in the trunk easily. I am planning to use it to store my seasonal clothing or shoes. College students can use this trunk as a temporary coffee table or a side table. With its stylish good looks and multi-functional capability, this white trunk is a winner in my book!

Second item:

Coma Inducer- Twin XL Comforter- Bright White

I am someone who always feel cold when I am sleeping so this comforter is a godsend! Not only does the material feels super soft and plush, it provides me with the warmth that I needed for a good night's sleep (this coming from someone who use two blankets and a comforter on a daily basis, not kidding). In fact, this is the warmest comforter I have ever used in my life! If you are always feeling cold or live in a cold region like me, this comforter might be the one you are looking for!

Third item:

Table Top Ironing Board

This table top ironing board is absolutely wonderful! With its compact size, it is ideal for small spaces and convenient enough for ironing a few items of clothing. Quality wise, it is sturdy, well padded and well-constructed. I especially like the iron rest it comes with so you can easily put your hot iron in a safe place when it's not in use. I also like that an over the door hook is provided with the ironing board for easy storage. Such a well-designed product, I highly recommended it for small spaces and dorm use!

Fourth item:

Grey Steam Iron

I love my new steam iron because it gives me a lot of ironing options with its variable steam control and heat setting adjustment. I like that I can dry or steam iron my clothing, depending on how wrinkled my item of clothing is. When the heat indicator light turns red, it means the iron is ready for action! I especially like the steam option because it helps get rid of the wrinkles fast! It also comes with a small measurement cup for filling up the water tank conveniently if you are using the steam ironing option! The iron is very easy to use and my clothes turned out creaseless and crisp within minutes. This iron is well-made, high quality and user-friendly, what's not to love? I would absolutely recommend this wonderful product to everyone!

Fifth item:

Isabelle Green- College Laundry Bag

I always travel and this roomy laundry bag will really come in handy! The beautiful colors first caught my eyes and I especially like its stylish geometric design! Made with durable cotton lined material, it features a strong drawstring closure. The best thing about this laundry bag is its size because it can hold a lot! To determine how much clothing the laundry bag can fit, I put two adult size puffer jackets and a kid size puffer jacket in the laundry bag and believe it or not, there is still room for another adult size puffer jacket or two! Simply amazing! I can't wait to bring this fabulous laundry bag with me when I go travelling in the future. Highly recommend!

Sixth item:

Pop Open Mesh Drying Rack

This fabulous drying rack is another winner! I have a ton of thick sweaters and after they have been washed, I usually lay them on a flat surface on top of absorbent bath towels for drying. Yes, the bath towels did the job but they always make my wood floors wet and damp. I also ended up with more laundry to do so it is not an ideal solution! Hanging my wet thick sweaters on clothes hangers is not an option as well because they often result in unsightly pucker marks and sagging. The great thing about this pop open mesh drying rack is it easily pops open for arched drying and fold flats for easy storage. The best part is it fits right over the bathtub for drip-drying sweaters and clothing. Now, I don't have to worry about ruining my wood floors anymore while drying my clothes! With its wonderful design, adjustable width option and good quality material, I will be using this product regularly and during all my travels. Fantastic product, highly recommended!

Seventh item:

Lint Brush- Double Sided Brush

I love this wonderful lint brush! Featuring two sides, it helps remove more lint in a shorter time span. It is lightweight, reusable and it removes lint on my wool jackets in a jiffy, what's not love? Another great product that I would use at home or during travels! 

Overall, I am pleased with all the products I have received from DormCo.com. Great quality products despite the low price points! Shipping is fast and efficient as well. 

I would also like to take this opportunity to applaud the excellent customer service provided by DormCo.com. To be perfectly honest, I was slightly disappointed when I was sent a wrong item. I had thought of keeping the wrong item because I don't want the hassle of shipping the item back but in the end, I decided to return the product because it couldn't meet my needs. After a few emails exchange, I was ready to swap the wrong item for the right one but DormCo.com decided to let me keep it. The right item was promptly delivered to my doorstep within a few days. A company that is efficient and does the right thing and knows how to make their customers happy? Now that is great customer service! I would definitely recommend purchasing items from this company!

*I have received these products to review for free but the views and opinions expressed are entirely my own.

What do you think of these products? Is there anything you would like to have for your own home as well? 

If you have a college going kid or know someone who is going to college, this website is a must visit! To check out more dorm essentials and other nifty home products from their collection, please visit DormCo.com.

How To Inject Your Personality Into Your Kitchen!

The last thing you want is to have a kitchen that does not reflect your personal style. Some kitchens can look clinical, bland and unloved. If you inject your personality into your kitchen you will instantly give it more life, and make it feel like home. Try thinking outside the box and doing something a little different, going with your preferences will make your kitchen your own. If you want to make your kitchen unique to you then here are some ways you can do it.

Accessories

Head out to the shops and search for some great accessories for your kitchen. The accessories you choose are an excellent way of showing off your creativity and personal tastes. Look for accessories such as wall hangings, pottery, cake tins, mugs and candles.

Colors

Everyone naturally gravitates to a specific set of colors. When you walk into your kitchen and it is painted a color you love it will make it feel yours. Do not settle for a color that you do not really like just because it is easier to leave it. Colors can have an impact on your mood so choose a color that makes you feel great. Do not be afraid to go for a bold color, kitchens can really stand out with bold colors such as red, bright yellow and green.

Theme/style

What sort of theme do you want to go for? For example some people prefer a nautical theme, others like to go for a vintage look and a lot of people these days like the modern look. Have a think about some styles you like and consider a range of different themes. The type of accessories you buy will need to tie in with your theme so this might influence your choice.

Personal objects

Theo From DesignerKitchens said “Do you have any meaningful objects you could put in your kitchen? Objects that bring back memories or have an important meaning to you? Adding very personal items is another way of making your kitchen really unique and making sure it reflects your personality.”

Flowers

Everyone has a type of flower that they absolutely love. Flowers can really make kitchens come alive and add a touch of elegance. You can get fresh flowers or buy some green house plants to make your kitchen feel vibrant and green.

Prints

You can go for plain block color kitchen walls or a use tiles or wallpaper with bold patterns. What sort of print you choose is another way of injecting your personality into your kitchen. Contrasting colours and textured patterns are very in right now so do not be afraid to try something new.

Gadgets and appliances

Do you prefer high-tech kitchen gadgets or appliances that are a little more classic? Connected products are very popular at the moment such as coffee makers operated by smartphones but this ultra modern look might not be you. You might prefer the look of a retro kitchen with slightly more unique appliances.

There are limitless inspirations out there. If you do some research, you are bound to find some ideas you really love that you can easily replicate for your own kitchen.

Which Size Tote Is Right For Me?

With humble roots as shopping bags and diaper bags, totes are well-known for the amount of space they offer. A tote bag can be your most indispensable accessory, but choosing the right one for your lifestyle is the key to buying a bag you will carry every day instead of just when it looks great with what you are wearing. Totes should be as big as they have to be and no bigger, and so the right tote bag for you depends on a number of factors, including its purpose and your lifestyle. 

Small

A small tote bag is ideal for carrying light essentials, such as a wallet, keys and a smartphone or tablet. Small tote bags are not designed to carry much weight, and so can be made of an array of materials from plastic to chain mail to suit your personal style. Women who tend to travel light may find everything they need in a small tote bag, while those with more to carry will likely need a bigger bag.

Medium

The most common type of tote bag, the medium-sized tote is a great choice for everyday carrying. Bringing a relatively compact profile together with increased capacity, a medium tote bag is perfect for carrying the essentials as well as other items such as books, sweaters, sunglasses and bottles of water.

Most medium sized tote bags are made from leather or canvas as well as synthetic materials. Medium tote bags also have reinforced bottoms for occasional carrying of heavier items as well as multiple interior and exterior compartments for easier storage of smaller items.

Large

A large tote bag is ideal for the woman who is constantly on the move, featuring plenty of space for travel essentials and other items. Large totes are the ultimate choice for women planning a full day of adventure, and many large tote bags have dedicated spaces for laptops, tablets and other office supplies, making a large tote a fun and attractive substitute for a briefcase as well.

Larger tote bags typically see heavy-duty use, and so good material choices for large tote bags include canvas and leather, durable materials that can stand up to the abuses of everyday life. Large tote bags should also have a closure of some kind to keep the contents secure.

Beach totes are another type of large bag designed for carrying items such as towels, clothes, sunscreen and more. Beach totes are usually made from materials like straw to resist the elements of the shore, but are not limited to the sand and surf as they make just as big a statement on the street.

Tote bags offer the opportunity to get the most out of accessorizing by unifying form and function. Finding the right one for your specific lifestyle could be one of the wisest investments you ever make.

Trends in door knobs and door locks!

Door knobs and door locks are hardly an interior designer’s dream playground, but the truth is that without choosing the right knobs or locks, a room can be ruined. In fact, if you are talking external door knobs, a home can be ruined. Here is a look at some of the trends in the world of door knobs and door locks.

Trending door knobs

Ceramic door knobs are proving popular in many homes. A traditional white ceramic knob can add a touch of understated class to a door (and room) while the more creative amongst us are opting to go with bright colors and interesting images. If you are looking to make an impression, cut glass knobs or crystal door knobs will do the job nicely. Both add elegance and flair to even the most plain of wooden doors. 

Some households are opting to take a European approach and switch from door knobs to door levers, both in their internal and external doors. Like door knobs, door levers can make a great impression. From stainless steel to brass, the finish you choose should depend on the room you are working with.

Of course, not everything is trending upwards. The likes of oversized and overly-ornate door knobs are not currently on anybody’s hot list, while wooden knobs are finding themselves more and more relegated to the kitchen.

Trending door locks

When it comes to external doors, the importance of aesthetics takes a back seat to security. After all, there is no point in having a stylish door knob or handle if it is going to be easy pickings for a burglar. Like every other aspect of property building and maintenance, door locks – which play an essential role in the security of our homes – are a matter of fashion. Locks that were popular a decade ago are not necessarily popular today and vice versa.

Here is a look at some popular trends:

The five-lever mortise deadlock remains a firm favorite with property owners, thanks mainly to the high level of security it offers: a deadbolt is almost impossible to force. However, because it is built into the door itself, a deadbolt lock is also inconspicuous, meaning it is an interior decorators’ delight. Perhaps the most obvious trend when it comes to door locks is the increasing movement towards electronic door locks, particularly in larger houses and commercial properties. Access control systems make it easier for property owners to regulate who enters the building and at what time.

While electronic locks are trending upwards, the likes of security chains and knob locks are proving less popular. The former is something of an eyesore and offers little actual security. The latter often requires regular repair work, usually in the middle of the night, and it's hard to find a 24/7 locksmith in Dallas (or any other city).

Product review- Redbubble photographic print!

I am thrilled to be working with my favorite site, Redbubble for a review again! You can check out our previous collaborations here and here.

I am sure by now Redbubble needs no further introduction. If you are new to Redbubble, it is a site with one of the most diverse creative community and marketplace on the internet. With a wide range of talented artists and designers hailing from every corner of the globe offering thousands of unique, fabulous and affordable men's clothing, women's clothing, kid's clothing, phone cases, stickers, wall art, home decor, stationery and tote bags, you are most likely to find something you need and love!

Speaking of love, I would love to have these awesome prints for my home, pronto!

Baywatcher

Summer Voyage

Vintage NYC

Quiet

One Summer Day At The Beach

Sea houses. Gardenstown.

Place De L'Opera

Aren't these stunning? Which one is your favorite? For today's review, I have selected this beautiful photographic print.

Red Lighthouse

I will show you what mine looks like!

My print arrived in this fabulous mailing tube!

This lovely photographic print measures at 20"x 20" (extra large).

Close-up.

This gorgeous image is created by Margaret Morrisey in Dublin, Ireland. According to the artist, a texture has been added to the image to give it a painterly feel. 

I am usually one who loves images with lots of color but this minimalist style print absolutely stole my heart! There is just something calm and dreamy about this picture. I am really drawn to the simple color palette and clean lines. The perfectly symmetrical image with the circling seagull is wonderfully captured! Such a charming, well-composed picture, what's not to love? 

Quality wise, it is printed on great quality paper in an excellent glossy finish, I couldn't be more pleased. Service wise, it arrived quickly upon ordering, in a perfect condition. Great product and equally great service, highly recommended!

Disclosure: I have received this product to review for free but the views and opinions expressed are my own.

There are many, many more fabulous work of art on their site so check them out when you have a moment! Happy shopping!