Choosing a Clawfoot Bath Tub

By Casey Madisson

The clawfoot bath tub originated in the Greek island of Crete some 4,000 years ago. Now, the modern world has seen its come back in homes across the world.

A typical clawfoot bath tub is usually made of cast iron with porcelain. Today, though, a variety of designs have been created and there are now clawfoot bath tubs that are made of acrylic and fiberglass for lighter weight and easier installation. During the earlier years of the clawfoot bath tub's comeback, the clawfoot bath tub used to be popular only among collectors. Now it is made so much more affordable for all home owners who wish to have a beautiful antique-style bath tub.

When selecting, remember that clawfoot bath tubs come in various designs and styles. There are those with the classic roll rim, where the rims of the tub elegantly slope outwards. Similarly, slipper tubs have that slightly raised end that delicately curves backwards where you are able to rest your back comfortably. Double slipper tubs are those that have two ends that are raised and curved. A tub that is double ended has two sides that are rounded instead of flat. Whether you are looking for that feminine touch, clean modern lines, vintage feel or playful design, the clawfoot bath tub offers you many styles to choose from.

Another thing to consider is the feet. Clawfoot bath tubs usually have iron feet with the shape of a lion's claws. Antique clawfoot bath tubs often have cast iron feet that is coated with porcelain enamel. Some are gilt and bear a resemblance of other animal feet. Clawfoot bath tub feet now come in different colors such as iridescent and two-tone.

A more technical aspect of choosing the tub would be is the placement of faucet holes. Wall holes are made so that your faucet and shower is situated from inside the tub. On the other hand, you can have faucet holes on top of the rim if you want more space and water in the bath tub. Another alternative is the absence of faucet holes, where water lines are attached to the bathroom wall instead.

The next step is to choose your water supply line. Water supply lines come in many designs, too. They can either be silver or have that gold tint. Here are the types of water supply lines you might want to inquire about from your supplier:

- Single offset supply lines. - Double offset supply lines - Pressure balance supply system - Deck mount supply lines - Freestanding water supply - Tub deck mount water supply - Tube wall mount water supply

Choosing a clawfoot bath tub that best suits your taste is all in the matter of getting to know basic styles and designs. You can begin your search with local suppliers or online.

About the Author:

Read the latest designs on clawfoot bath tub. Read more luxury bath guide info for the cheapest deals online!

Babysitting Agencies: What You Should Know

By Rashel Dan

Looking for a babysitter? Now, it isn't so hard. Babysitting agencies are a great help. Getting a sitter from an agency will give you some assurance that procedures have been followed to ensure that you have a qualified sitter. Different agencies however have different methods and procedures. You would want to be with an agency that can source the best sitters. How do you know that you are with a good agency?

Source of Sitters

Background - Finding out about an agency's background is a given. Your next step should be finding our exactly where they get their sitters. It would be good if an agency can get sitters from various sources. After all, this is not a question of discriminating against certain places as sources for sitters. It's about finding out how they screen their applicants.

A good agency would typically conduct preliminary checks, investigation and screening. This includes verifying a sitters real identity and checking for past records of cases of misdemeanor. Determine how an agency conducts its checks.

Agency Requirements for Sitters

An agency would have specific requirements before they accept sitters. What exactly are these requirements? Are sitters required to have certificates in first aid courses? In some cases, sitter applicants aren't required to have these certificates. This is because not every sitter would have the motivation or resources to take these courses. Some agencies however take it upon themselves to provide learning opportunities. A sitter who is well-versed in emergency response is valuable. You would want a sitter who can respond to emergencies and accidents.

Sitter Matching

Good babysitting agencies shouldn't just offer you any sitter. They should be able to offer you a sitter who can respond specifically to your needs. Your sitter for example should be able to work well with kids who have the same ages as yours. You may also have special requirements such as sitters being able to cook as well. Find out how an agency will help you find the exact sitter that you need. Some agencies will help you interview their sitters so you can find a good match. Others will interview you personally so they can determine your needs and find a sitter who fits.

Agency Guarantees

Ask about some form of guarantee. Products typically have money back guarantees. Agencies on the other hand have guarantees for replacements. This is important because there will be instances when your sitter will be unable to come in. It is also quite possible that you may not be satisfied with your sitter and would like a replacement. Will your agency replace a sitter at no extra cost?

Cost

As with everything else, the price is a crucial factor. How much do you have to pay your agency for a sitter? You may have to pay an initial fee whether or not you finally decide to get a sitter from them. Some agencies have non-refundable initial fees. You then have to pay for a placement fee. This amount covers the costs for agency services include background checks. In some cases you may have to pay extra for transportation costs. Once you have your sitter, you have to pay her an agreed sum every month.

Babysitting agencies may be a bit expensive. If you think about it though, the cost may be worth every penny. Just think about it as paying a large amount for the safety of your kids.

About the Author:

Discover babysitting agencies online. Get the most affordable babysitting rates today.

Planning and Strategizing Make Holdiay Shopping Effortless

By Edie Mindell

Holiday Shopping Diva here with another dose of sanity to add to your holiday shopping excursions this year. One of the most difficult things about the whole holiday gift giving process is that even with the best-laid plans there is always a hitch. Sometimes this is a minor set back that can easily be rectified, other times it is not so minor.

What do you do when your toddler happens to set his heart on this season's equivalent of the cabbage patch doll or tickle me Elmo toy? (Bloodshed is not an option.) Let's face it, if your baby or toddler wants the season's 'it' toy, you may need a plan B.

When you think your list might be laden with toys that will be snapped up before the boxes are off the delivery truck having a good offense is the only way to go. The only offense in shopping is to shop longer and harder than the other shoppers. This means you will need to start looking for that red wagon early in the season and with a great degree of frequency until it is secreted away for your child.

If shopping till you drop does not yield the perfect tricycle then a special order might be what you need. You might pay a bit more in shipping, but at least you will get the gift you are after. When implementing the special order plan B do not forget to allow time for shipping and check the internet as well as in-store ordering options.

One of the less popular tactics but one that might need to be used is simply knowing when to say when. Holiday shopping and gift giving should be fun especially when you are shopping for kids. When no other gift will possibly do this can be difficult but you do not need to abandon all hope of ever presenting your child with a beautiful step stool just her size. All that needs to be altered is the timeline. The mad rush to buy a holiday toy passes with the holiday season. To this end buy the gift and present it to your child for Valentine's Day, a birthday or just as an out of the blue I'm thinking of you.

Plan B options also include the second choice gift. Sometimes the perfect gift that you just can't find is also the one you thought of yourself. You know your child will just love a rocking horse, but she didn't ask for it. In this case make a last minute gift substitution. Your child will never even know, and your sanity and stress level will decrease.

Don't forget the power of the internet. Many gifts that are not to be found in a traditional store are available with very little hassle on-line! I have begun doing much of my holiday shopping online. It is great! Stay tuned for more internet shopping tips that will certainly spice up your holiday shopping.

About the Author:

Edie Mindell is the writer for SimplyUniqueBabyGifts.com. Santa will love the large selection of baby Christmas gifts. If Radio Flyer Toys are on the list, visit their online catalog and enjoy free shipping (lower 48 states).

Advice in Choosing Out Which Fashion Education Is Right For You

By Jessica Bradbury

Once you have made the decision to attend fashion school is one thing, but the decision on which school to go to is equally important. Whatever you decide to pursue in life, deciding on what fashion school to attend is not an easy task for you.

There are so many choices, and especially for those who have been accepted to all of their choices deciding which fashion school you are going to attend can be one of the toughest decisions of your life. It is never easy to put that much thought into your future at once, but needless to say deciding which college to go to is not going to be your last tough decision.

But there are factors that you can consider to help you with the process of choosing which fashion school would be the best for you. For those who are having a difficult time making the final decision, there are tips available to help you look for the kind of school that suits your needs.

Consider the Location

Location is an important factor to consider in choosing the fashion school you want to attend, even if you think at this time that it is not a significant part of your decision. Do you think of celebrating a white Christmas? Then, fashion schools based in California are probably not going to do you right although New York based ones would be good choices for this aspect.

Consider as well distance from home, along with the expenses of being independent. Would you be schooling yourself? Will you have to get a part-time job or will your parents be footing the bill for your expenses? Consider these things as you consider where you'll be going to school.

Consider Reputation

Though it is true that it is not where one hails from that determines the actual end in one's pursuit to succeed in the fashion industry, it is also equally true that many esteemed designers hail from reputable fashion schools.

Your skills speak for themselves but your degree can speak volumes in itself. If you have the choice of getting into and going to a top notch school then you should-so long as the learning environment is suitable for you.

Consider the Cost

In deciding what fashion school to go to, you should also consider who is paying for the course. Are you paying for you own education? If so, then the choice of school just became easier. You can choose the school that realistically fits your budget. Consider this, if you can't afford to attend the school then you won't be able to go no matter how much you like the ambiance or the location. This is the most important aspect to consider in choosing the appropriate fashion school for you.

Deciding which fashion school to attend is never easy, but if you organize your thoughts and consider what you can and can not deal with then you shouldn't have a difficult time making a final decision for yourself before too long.

About the Author:

This article is written by Jessica Bradbury, she has a site dedicated to bottom line information on fashion marketing schools and fashion modeling schools

Reproduction Jewelry that Does Not Break the Bank

By Elvin Retinz

Designer jewelry can be very expensive and not everyone can afford to make those purchases. However, women who love fashion and looking their best should not have to suffer because they cannot afford the top of the line. Therefore, why not look into buying some faux designer jewelry. If the correct piece of faux jewelry is purchased then no one will know the difference but you, and there is definitely no shame in that.

There are great options for finding faux jewelry and they are going to be shared with you right now. It is important to note that there are plenty of places that do sell designer jewelry fakes but, these are the best of the well the fakes. Therefore, take into consideration these helpful tips.

First, it is important to note Overstock Jewelry is a great option for people who are looking for some well made replica jewelry. The jewelry found online there is most definitely not cheap or tacky and is high quality knockoffs. They offer a large variety of styles, designers, and items. They also have jewelry for men and children. The items although could be called fake or imitation is better described as being inspired by the top designers. Such designers include Vera Wang, Heidi Klum, and Cartier.

Jewels Lovers is the second best options for finding that perfect piece of faux jewelry. Their specialty is definitely reproduction jewelry and again inspired by some very famous designers. They are committed to attention to detail as well as ensuring that their jewelry is made the best that it can. Reproduction pieces are their specialty and they take it seriously. They are so confident in their pieces of art that they offer a lifetime warranty. This warranty is available on all of their jewelry. So, just in case satisfaction was not met, then it can be exchanged or refunded. That is definitely hassle-free shopping.

Some advantages from wearing these replica pieces are that the cost was not overwhelming, but the look is. This allows the average consumer to look like the stars that are walking the red carpet. But it can be your little secret that you paid very little for this very high life appearance.

Trendy does not always have to break the bank. However, be careful. It is important to make sure that you are buying quality imitations. Some replica jewelry can be made very poorly and look cheap instead of classy. If the materials are not the best, they can even cause skin irritation and a rash is definitely not fashionable or presentable.

About the Author:

Elvin Retinz usually makes detailed reports on ideas dealing with engagement party gifts and engagement gift. His work on engagement party gifts and engagement gifts are published on his website .

Samsung LN52A850

By Ryan Alberts

This TV is amazing. I had a 61" that had a effective picture, but It wasn't anywhere close as good as this. The picture quality is astounding. When scenes involve people in a room for instance it's like looking in on them through a window every detail is brilliant, vivid, and fresh. And that is with SD.

I record some old black & White shows and they have never looked so great. High definition is nothing short of spectacular. This set can be set to have a 60 hz or 120 hz refresh.

The 60 is good, but the 120 gets it to the next degree. The higher refresh rate has near Blue Ray quality to scenes where there is distant details in the background. These details get viewable with the higher refresh rate. I'm seeing absolutely no artefacts in the picture at all.

The viewing angles are where I experience a big difference from what I'm used to. The picture quality presents low or no change no matter how far to the side you get. I've laid on the floor directly below the set and the picture is great, and yet when I stand right next to it and look down on it the image is still great.

There are enough of inputs, including 4 HDMI ports. All these different input ports are accessible using the remote. The remote has all the standard features, but it also includes a click wheel that I have found to work good. Clicking the middle of the click wheel adds up a menu of the many features on this LCD TV.I wont bother naming them here, there's a good list on the website. Once the list occurs up you can roll and click through the many characteristics to use them or turn them off.

The screen is only 2 inches thick, and the whole set doesn't weigh very much at all. You do see some blaze on the screen generally during the day. The screen can be pivoted thought an that helps a lot. The base is very stable. I have the set sitting on a sturdy but narrow table and because most of the weight of the set is in the base the TV sits nicely and isn't tippy at all.

Only 2 inches thick, Samsung's astonishing bran-new LN52A850 offers all of the characteristics of the 750 Series models in an incredibly light, sleek package.

I checked this set out at show room with many LCD's and plasma's on show and this set had what I say is the greatest picture by far. Even in a large room with a lot of light. I recommend this TV without the slightest reluctance.

About the Author:

Click this website to find out more on Samsung LN52A850 or Click this one Samsung LN52A850

Frequently asked Questions on Bikini Tops

By Dewey Finn

Ah, the wonderful world of bikini tops - cleavage, pushups, padded, support, full-figured - all the words that come to mind when you're thinking of a bikini top. But other questions may come to mind, too - ones that may not be so obvious. So we've gathered these Top 10 Questions about Bikini tops - for your support!

How do I find the right size bikini top? This is the most common question asked by women regarding bikini tops. Although bikini tops are an article of clothing, they have to cover a lot of areas of the body - the breasts, the sides, the back, the shoulders. That's a lot of places that a bikini top has to fit - and fit comfortably. But bikini top manufacturers have answered the call. There are so many different styles of bikini tops, each with their own unique shape and size - one to fit every woman. If you don't know what size of bikini top you need, then it's important to get properly measured. There are many websites that offer measuring charts. They'll explain exactly how and where you measure yourself to get the ultimate fit and comfort you need as you move around in your active life.

I do a lot of running and jogging - is there a good bikini top for me? Absolutely. There's a wide variety of sports bikini tops available today, specifically designed to give you maximum comfort and support, as well as keep you cool. Regular bikini tops can be restrictive, which is the last thing you need to think about while you're exercising. Sports bikini tops are made to move with you, giving you the opportunity to get the most out of your active life. And they come in a variety of styles, and a wide array of colors. So you'll be looking sharp as well as be in shape.

Should I buy an underwire bikini top? Since there are so many styles of bikini tops to choose from, you need to consider the two main components of bikini top fitting - comfort and practicality. Underwire bikini tops are designed for extra support. They maintain the shape of the bikini top, while providing the necessary supporting tension. Underwire bikini tops don't have to be uncomfortable. In fact, they're very well made these days. As long as you have the right size, an underwire bikini top will provide you with the support you need, while remaining comfortable.

How do I stop my bikini top straps from slipping off my shoulder? If you have the right size bikini top, the straps shouldn't slip off your shoulder. It's surprising how many women wear the wrong size bikini top, and that's one of the results. You should hook your bikini top in the middle hook to get the best fit. What that does is align the shoulder straps properly.
If your shoulders are slanted, then you can buy special shoulder pads and back straps to help keep the straps in place. You could also buy a T-back bikini top, or you could get one that hooks in front. That should solve your strap-slipping problem.

I'm pregnant - when should I start wearing a maternity bikini top? As your breasts grow during pregnancy, you'll obviously need to get a larger size bikini top than your regular one. Maternity bikini tops are specially designed for flexibility, so they'll grow with the ribcage, as well as the breasts. Regular bikini tops don't expand like that. You'll need to wear a maternity bikini top starting in your fourth or fifth month of pregnancy.

When will they make a nursing bikini top? You should switch from a maternity bikini top to a nursing bikini top a month or two before your due date. Your nursing bikini top could be up to two sizes bigger than your maternity bikini top but, of course, that changes from one woman to the other. So make sure you measure yourself properly, because when you're nursing and taking care of a baby, you have too much on your mind to be bothered by an uncomfortable bikini top.The main difference between a maternity bikini top and a nursing bikini top is the fold-down flap that allows you to breastfeed at your leisure. Other than that, they're both designed for extra support and comfort.

What's the best type of fabric for a bikini top? Bikini tops are made from so many different fabrics these days. Again, designers are diversifying to make sure that there's a specific bikini top for every use. Sports bikini tops are made from stretchy but strong fabrics that breathe well. Full-figured bikini tops are made from fabrics with a higher elastic content, but with stronger fibers. An example of some of the types of fabrics used to make bikini tops are 100% cotton and cotton blends, synthetics like microfiber and nylon, spandex, and Satin Finish Lycra. And there are others, too. So when you're choosing a bikini top, find out what fabric it's made out of and make sure it's compatible with your use.

What are my choices in styles of bikini tops? Bikini tops and lingerie designers are aware of the wide variety of activities and situations women are involved in these days. That's why they've made so many different styles and colors of bikini tops. There isn't a single activity you can name that there isn't a specific bikini top for. And they follow women right through their lives. As girls develop into women, there's a full line of first-time bikini tops, like the Teen Form's My First Bikini top line. For the larger women, there's a wide variety of choices in plus size and full-figured bikini tops. They even make water bikini tops and gel bikini tops now, that conform to the lines of your figure. And if you want that provocative look, there's a full line of sexy bikini tops available, in pretty lace patterns. You have all kinds of choices.

What's the hot style in bikini tops these days? Basic bikini top styles change regularly throughout the years. It's sometimes hard to keep up with them, they come and go so fast. But today, the most popular style is the push-up bikini tops. Cleavage is in, so to speak, and it doesn't take bikini top manufacturers long to jump on the bandwagon. You'll need to keep an ear out for the fashion experts if you want to be wearing the "in" thing.

What are the popular bikini tops and where can I get them online? Bikini tops companies know how popular online shopping is, so they've made their bikini tops available on the Internet. There are some great online bikini top sites that'll give you all the information about styles, colors, bikini top names - everything you need to know.

In summary We know that buying a bikini top isn't one of your favorite things to do. That's why we've answered these questions, to make your shopping experience easier. Don't let shopping for a bikini top be a chore. Just go online and you'll be sure to find your size and style. And you can get it delivered right to your door.

About the Author:

Dewey Finn reveals the secrets about Bikini Tops at http://www.bikinisnacks.com/beach-wear.html Tops, Seperates and Maternity check it out.

The Moody Ficus Tree

By Thomas Fryd

Most people who do not have horticultural qualifications would not be aware that there are indeed many hundreds of variations of the ficus species. One of the more commonly seen indoor plants these days is the "Ficus benjamina". This is the variety that most people think about when they think "ficus". It is an ornamental tree and is also known by its common name of "weeping fig tree". It is a popular choice as a bonsai specimen.

Tree "Moods" The ficus tree is temperamental and can be "moody" depending upon its care regime. This change of mood can occur when it is given too little water, too much water, exposure to too much light, exposure to too little light or moving it a few inches away from a "preferred" spot. It will drop leaves when the smallest change is made to its environment. As such, the placement of the tree should be made very carefully - you won't want to move it except in extreme situations - there is too much at stake!

It's All About The Water! Many ficus owners fall into the trap of over watering their plant; this will cause the leaves to change color. It is wise to check the moisture level of the soil around your ficus by sticking your finger into the soil. If there is evidence of moisture even a few inches below the surface, don't give it any more! If, however, all you feel is dry soil, then it should be given a good soak. Avoid giving the plant extra water if the leaves have started to turn yellow; this indicates that the plant has already had enough water!

Most ficus thrive in humid conditoins. Your home is not necessarily going to be humid enough for the ficus, so you will have to "mist' the plant a number of times during the day to imitate the natural conditions of the plant. You could also give the plant humidity by using a humidity tray. This is simply a saucer from a pot that is filled with gravel or pebbles and which will collect any extra water; the extra water evaporates, creating the humid conditions needed by the ficus.

Steady Lights, Temps and Fertilizer The ficus needs a bright source of light that has been filtered; it needs to avoid full sun exposure during the daylight hours. You should also avoid placing the ficus plant where it will be exposed to heating and air conditoning vents as this will prevent the plant from obtaining a constant temperature in its environment.

The application of fertilizer each month during the growing season is vital to the health of the plant. Don't fertilize the plant during winter; as an alternative, use a slow release fertilizer during the growing season.

Final Hints To successfully raise a ficus tree, you need to have the patience of a saint and be serious about your gardening. This is especially true when you are keeping track of the watering regime during winter. If you are not confident enough to rely upon the "finger soil moisture" test, invest in a meter that will indicate the moisture level in the soil.

Remember that there are many things that the temperamental ficus can be affected by that will result in leaf dropping. Keep a close eye on water levels and light levels and don't forget to check drafts and humidity. The ficus is a fickle plant, so expect a "love-hate" relationship if you decide to have one!

About the Author:

There is more to learn on ficus. Drop by today at http://www.ficuscare.com.