Five Reasons Why You Should Get Polished Concrete

By Allen Strong

If you're thinking of jumping in on the old bandwagon of trends and you're planning of getting polished concrete for your flooring, then you might want to consider some of the things that could help you decide whether this groundbreaking technique for an old material really is for you.

1. Polished concrete is almost maintenance free. I say almost because there is no available flooring material out there that's 100% maintenance free. But concrete, by itself is already easy to maintain, so you wouldn't have to worry about vacuuming dust from carpets, or waxing hard wood floors. The sheen on polished concrete almost never dulls out.

2. Polished concrete is expensive. Compared to the cheap carpets and vinyl tiles that get worn out after several years, yes concrete is a little bit above the price range of these materials. But it's not in the high end ranges of marble or slate flooring materials, and in terms of durability and how long these materials last, concrete is well worth its price.

3. Polished concrete is flexible. Figuratively speaking of course, because hardened concrete is anything but flexible. What do I mean? Is it too loud or is it too hard on the feet. The truth is it is hard on the foot and it does make this echo effect when sound is produced but there are many ways to get around that like putting rugs to cushion your steps, and putting up curtains to block and absorb sound.

4. Polished concrete is too slippery. This is false. As long as it's kept dry and clean, there is no reason for anyone to slip on concrete. It's non abrasive yet tough enough to allow for enough traction between its surface and your feet.

5. Polished concrete is decorative. True. The possibilities are endless. You can add some coloring pigments in the cement mixture and it will make a big difference when the concrete hardens. You'll even be more impressed once the floor is polished.

These are just some of the many advantages of having your concrete floors polished. If you want to see it for yourself, try visiting some known establishments using the material and see for yourself.

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Know more ways to use polished concrete and share your ideas about concrete polishing on the most complete source on the net right now!

This Christmas - Give Legos To Your Toddler For Hours of Fun

By Edie Mindell

A snap, click and we all fall down: the wonder of legos lasts a lifetime. OK, so your baby would rather eat the Legos than play with them, but your toddler loves the colors, the towers and building then destroying vast Lego empires. How do you balance the need to keep your baby from choking and your older child's need for engaging in imaginative play?

This is a question parents beginning their Christmas shopping for young children have had to wrestle with for decades. It was once much more simple since the variety of toys was not that broad. Now with so many choices that have smaller pieces it is a troublesome question. What do you do when your toddler asks Santa in the innocent belief of childhood for a Lego set? Well, there are many gifts that you can choose that will keep your infant's airway safe and still fulfill your toddler's holiday dreams

Snap together blocks are not a one size fits all toy. There are many varieties that are baby friendly. These larger versions might even be preferable for parents of young children and not just because they don't pose a choking hazard.

The large snapping blocks are easier for toddler fingers to master. They also come in themes that are more appropriate for toddlers. You are not likely to find a large Lego set featuring Star Wars or GI Joe, but you will find bright colors, ABC themes, lots of car, truck or train sets and cartoon favorites like Bob the Builder and many others.

If your toddler or somewhat older child is well past the large Lego stage then this is not the option for you. Look for accessories that are designed to keep play safely contained. Keeping them off the floor and away from baby's seeking fingers will ensure her safety and allow your kids to play with their Christmas bounty.

Many products are designed for this purpose: carpet mats, storage bins with lids and the master container - a table designed purely for Lego play. A mat will help create a Lego zone. This will signal to your child that the pieces need to stay in this one certain spot. Having a limited area will help with clean up as well as stemming the flow of toys, and the choking threat, to one area of the house.

Storage bins with lids keep toys safely out of reach until you are actually playing with them. You will still need to supervise play and clean up but at least you aren't worried about the baby finding the Legos when you are not looking. A table combines the safety features of both the bins and a mat, but also elevates play off the ground. This means your older children can play even when the baby is around because the Legos are out of the baby's reach. Whatever option you choose, your baby and toddler should be very happy with your holiday shopping efforts this year.

About the Author:

Edie Mindell is the writer for SimplyUniqueBabyGifts.com. If Santa is looking for perfect Christmas gifts for baby, there is a great selection awaiting delivery just in time for Christmas. If Radio Flyer Toys is on the list, visit their online catalog and enjoy free shipping (lower 48 states).

The King of the Berries - The Strawberry

By KC Kudra

Mmmmm... Can you remember biting into a big, sweet, juicy strawberry when you were little? Can you feel the juice running down your chin? Strawberries can create some vivid food memories for many people because they are so good! Today, you can get strawberries at the market almost all year round thanks to quick shipping, but they are not the same as eating those freshly picked, perfectly ripe berries right out of your own garden.

You do not need a green thumb to grow strawberries, and once you taste freshly picked berries, store bought will never be the same again. Growing your own berries in a pot or in the garden will let you have the best berries for a bowl of fruit and cream, or even just a berry or two cut up in your morning cereal.

The strawberries that we recognize today are originally American, and they are a hybrid of a species from South America that had to be crossbred with a species from North America to help them survive. They were a sign of decadence and health in Europe.

Funnily enough, in Argentina strawberries were considered to be poisonous until the mid-1800s. The South American strawberry plants varied in flavor, size and shape, but the berries always had the distinctive bright red color and almost-heart-shaped berry that we have come to know and love.

Eating strawberries raw is probably the most popular method of serving this fruit. You may be surprised to learn that strawberries can be added to many different dishes to add color and flavor. One easy way to prepare a strawberry dessert is to chop the berries into small chunks. Place the pieces in a bowl and cover them with water. Generously spread white sugar over the top. Add some ice cubes and set the bowl in the refrigerator to chill for a few hours. What you get in the end is a delicious icy treat that will please the most finicky palate in summer.

Some people prefer a more complex flavor, or a little more tartness to their berries. A good way to add more complexity to your strawberries is to dip them into some good balsamic vinegar and powdered sugar. The sharpness of the vinegar adds a nice contrast to the sweetness of the sugar. This makes a simple, intriguing end to a meal.

Strawberries and spinach make a great pairing. Toss a few in the next time you want to serve a spinach salad. If you combine the spinach, sliced strawberries, some red onions and caraway seeds, you will have a great salad that works well for lunch or dinner. Top it with a dressing of balsamic vinegar, rice vinegar, mustard and honey to pull it all together.

Alternatively, you can try this fresh spinach salad. Remove all the stems from the spinach leaves so you only have the tender greens. Slice the strawberries diagonally to create an interesting look. Toss them into the greens with a little Gorgonzola cheese and some tasty homemade croutons for some crunch. Top it all off with a little dab of ranch dressing and some freshly ground black pepper for a delightful salad that is a wonderful marriage of textures and flavors.

Do not relegate strawberries only to shortcake. They have a lot more to offer than the traditional dessert. Strawberries are nutritious and flavorful, and are the ideal berry to serve. There is a reason the strawberry is everyone's favorite.

About the Author:

Find more dessert recipes like our jello refrigerator cake or maybe a light and delicious jello cake. Don't reprint this exact article. Instead, reprint a free unique content version of this same article.

Bargains for your holidays In Spain

By Shaw Townsend

The closest English translation of the name Benidorm could be 'place to sleep.' This is where you can have your holidays in Spain. This vacation destination has grown into a real party spot. Benidorm has velvety white beaches and a scenic coastline that at nighttime offers vibrant and exciting entertainment. Visitors enjoy a diverse array of attractions combining culture with history and recreational opportunities and excitement. You have the opportunity to go out on an adventure with lots of marvelous places for you to relax and absorb the sun.

You arrive in Benidorm through the Alicante Airport. Once are in the city you'll begin your absolutely remarkable holiday experience with endless sunshine, lazing on the beach, and exploring the region, playing some golf mixed with water sports, and visiting exciting and vibrant nightlife. The vacationer, who enjoys a holiday in Benidorm, likes to be with people. They like the 'buzz' and lively surroundings that is Benidorm as it welcomes holidaymakers from all around the world. You can enjoy a truly different and satisfying holiday experience when you choose Benidorm, and whether you are traveling alone, with a loved one, or with your whole family, you will find plenty here to keep you busy throughout your stay.

At this time, there are some affordable bargains for your holidays in Spain, so that you won't have to go broke to find a relaxing and lively holiday destination. You will find a lot to see and do in Benidorm. You'll discover terrific historic areas to enjoying vacation attractions and local festivities. You'll certainly get your money's worth when you choose a vacation in Benidorm. The perfect reservation for your holiday in Benidorm is probably located on the Internet.

No matter what country you come from, you will enjoy a choice of flights from reputable airlines. In most cases, you'll arrive at the Alicante airport. Your Spanish culture a-waits as you ride the airport bus to Benidorm. You will be able to use taxis. minibuses, or rental cars, to transport you to your reserved accommodation in Benidorm. If you log onto the Internet you will be able to pre-book your vacation rental property or hotel room. You will locate, some excellent bargains and on your hotels.

You may even want to rent an apartment for your vacation time. Many of these apartments are two bedrooms but there are larger. All units consist of living room, full bath and shower plus a roomy balcony. Each unit has a washer and dryer, television, and you can rent a safety deposit box for your valuables for the duration of your stay. These apartments have access to a swimming pool. The apartment comes complete with fresh linen, sheets, and towels that are changed weekly.

In Benidorm, you will find a town that pleases travelers from all over the world. No matter what you're looking for from a holiday, Benidorm will make sure that you're entertained during your holiday.

About the Author:

Shaw Townsend routinely writes news on information similar to living and moving to spain. You can have a look at his work on americans moving to spain and living here.

Decorating your Bathroom with Tiles Alone

By Soren Bolbenk

You can add some extra flare and color into your bathroom by using some attractive decorative bathroom wall tiles. You should start the design by deciding which tile you will use as the main tile in your bathroom. Larger tiles are starting to become very popular and are commonly made from porcelain, ceramic, limestone or marble.

There are a lot of different choices when it comes to tiles, nobody has to settle just for the 4-by-4 tile anymore. You can purchase tiles in various shapes, including rectangles, and twelve inch tiles. These will allow you to create a beautiful bathroom. If you are concerned about going over the top then just keep your tiling confined to the shower and bath area.

Options for Design

There are many different options available when you are looking to tile your wall decoratively. There are border tiles which have a rope design, or shells. There are many different tiles to suit many different themes. You can also find porcelain tiles and glass tiles in a variety of different colors. If you're considering tiling your bathroom then you have plenty of choice.

There are also various changes in fashionable finishes. Shiny wall tiles used to be popular, however now matte and rustic tile designs are very popular in bathroom design. You can also buy limestone and marble tiles which can create a sophisticated look with soft colors.

If you want to create soft earthy tones for your bathroom you should consider cream and sage colors. Natural stones and granite work very well with such color schemes. For an antique look you should consider using marble tiles. Glass and metal tiles are well suited to create accents and attractive borders.

You can use many of these different materials together as long as you mix them together correctly. You need to carefully consider shades, textures and different color tones. Anything can be placed together as long as you think about it carefully. As long as the colors are allowed to work well together then anything can be put together. You will be able to create perfect bathroom tile designs if you plan it correctly.

About the Author:

Soren Bolbenk continually makes detailed articles on things similar to american blind and wallpaper company and wood window blinds. You can discover his work on american blind & wallpaper over at http://www.shades-blinds-shutters-guide.com .

The Impact Chocolate Truffles Have on the Brain?

By Bob Johnson

Chocolate has forever been a grand gift to give someone. The chocolate manufacturing is a multi-billion dollar business. There are so many different types of chocolate and so many reasons to offer someone a chocolate gift that it is a business that just keeps getting bigger every year.

There are quite a few different types of chocolate. There is dark chocolates, milk chocolate, fair chocolate, and semi-sweet chocolate are just a few. Many individuals have a preferred chocolate. Each manufacturer of chocolate gifts has their own unique formula for the way they make chocolates and this makes each kind of chocolate taste a little diverse.

Chocolate Truffles are a great present to give for just about any occasion or no occasion at all. People love to get chocolate gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, holidays or just because. Special occasions or events are also grand times to give the present of chocolates. Baby showers, a move up at work, or just to tell a friend that you are thinking about them are big reasons to give chocolate handouts.

You can purchase chocolate gifts just about anyplace including grocery stores, gas stations, malls or convenient stores. Stores that put on the market only chocolates have the largest variety to choose from and you might even find a specific store that carries the specific type of chocolate truffle that you like or you identify your friend likes. This makes choosing chocolates gifts a little easier because there is such a huge variety and you might end up finding amazing new that you like.

Chocolate Truffles make grand gifts for any person at anytime. There are a assortment of packages that chocolate gifts come in so you ought to be able to find one ideal for the event or friend you are trying to purchase something for. The present of chocolates is a gift that people love to obtain. Have fun searching for the ideal chocolate for your buddy and don't forget to get a few for yourself!

For those of you who like chocolate truffles, there are quite a few different kinds to choose from. You can buy chocolate truffles in milk chocolate, dark chocolate or if you aren't positive which kind of truffle your cherished one or friend might like, you can always get a box of assorted chocolate truffles.

Buying a chocolate gift for someone is fun and you can get really creative with the things that you choose. You can get somebody a box of milk chocolate truffles. You can obtain someone a heart filled with assorted filled chocolates and you can still get someone a good old basic chocolate bar.

People love to get chocolate gifts for just in relation to any occasion or still if there isn't an occasion. Chocolates are a grand treat to show someone that you are thinking in relation to them. Go pick out your chocolate gifts now and show someone how special you think they are.

About the Author:

Authors Details: Hugh Roberts has 20 years gourmet food advice. For chocolate gift get free details on chocolate truffels

Utilize A Wine Rack To Save Space, Enhance The Room, And More

By Serge Lefleur

The wine rack is ideal for both the beginner wine lover of fine wines and also connoisseurs. Anyone who wishes to collect wines and thus begin a love affair with these white and red bottled wines.

When you think of it, the more beautiful these racks are, the more they need the best of wines to be stored within them. And the best part about these wine racks is that they are available in all sizes and shapes, and even different styles. This allows them to satisfy different tastes and fit nicely into different rooms as well.

Show Off A Fine Wine Collection

The elegance of some wine racks will help to enhance the surrounding environment as well as exude more class in the room. That is why both connoisseurs and wine lovers alike want to buy wine racks that will show off their fine wine collections. Sometimes the wine rack is so attractive that it becomes the center of attraction.

The wine rack can also be designed to blend in with all kinds of dcor or even different room styles and it is often a key item of furniture that is also space-saving at the same time. The sizes and shapes can be made to suit all needs.

There are so many kinds of materials that can be used to make the racks, which ensures a good fit with any style of room. The wine rack displays your wine collection effectively, which makes it an important part of the dcor. It is often found with open racks and sometimes can be stacked. Quite often it will have locking doors of glass or wood as well.

It is usual for a wine rack to stand on a surface that is flat, though sometimes to save space, a hanging wine rack may also be used, which helps in saving more space and also enhances the look of the wall.

Some racks do not require much assembly while others can be quite complicated though it is normal for it to consist of a tabletop as well as has area where the wine glasses and wine bottles can be displayed and also stored.

There are so many styles of wine racks to choose these days, definitely making it possible to find one that fits your individual tastes. You could opt for the very modern looking chrome racks, or instead you might choose the traditional look and go with racks made out of wood. The bottom line is that a wine rack is ideal for storing your wine, making the room look great, and saving you space.

About the Author:

Author Bio: This informative article about Wine Racks was written by learned writer Serge Lefleur. He also writes about many other Wine Rack related topics on his blog.

Make Your Yard Standout

By Kent Higgins

Perhaps you enjoy taking a drive around town to see how different lawns look. Some may have picture perfect lawns and others may not, but the look seems to be similar. Green grass is green grass, sprinkled with some trees and run-of-the-mill flowers and this can be boring. If you are seeking ways to make your yard unique, then consider adding some colorful, decorative rocks and stones to break up the monotony.

Adding landscape rocks will make your yard have style and character, others will be envious and want to copy your yard. But most do not know where to begin. The first step in adding landscaping rocks is to remove some grass. If you are not using your front lawn, this is the perfect place to start and will make your yard standout.

You can use a shovel or a tiller to break up the soil. Push the rocks out of your way and move them with a wheelbarrow. You do not want these types of rocks to remain in your landscape, they take away from the aesthetic value of your lawn.

Before you begin to dig, you need to determine if you have the proper drainage for the plants and flowers you will have. If you do not, then you need to add the appropriate drainage system before you do anything else.

Another addition that can add appeal to your front yard is a walkway. It will provide a charming path leading your guest from the driveway and to your front door. This is not only a great addition as far as appearances go, but it also keeps tracking debris into the home to a minimum as well.

If you choose a popular stone walkway, you need to stagger the rocks along the walkway leading up to your front door. Make sure that when making the final installation, that your rocks are secure and do not move, this can cause a tripping or falling hazard. Keep the rocks 4-5 inches deep in the soil to prevent them from moving. You can also add a thin layer of gravel to keep them in place and stable.

If you want to add some other interesting aspects to your walkway, consider adding curves. This look is more intricate and distinctive, but still feels informal and charming. By adding some smaller shrubbery you add structure to the walkway. You can add some color with landscape rocks and perennials, this will enhance your walkway even further.

Once you get the main flowers and foliage planted, you can begin to add some smaller ones. You can place them in an arranged pattern around and in between rocks and use them to fill in any gaps. Some people prefer to use mulch because it has a more manicured appearance. Both of them are attractive, viable options, it is just a matter of what your budget and tastes are.

Now you are ready to add the finishing touches to your landscape. You can add some climbing vines and trellis . You can hang up some plants from your front porch and put some lovely pots and planters on your front porch. You can even go for plants that will give you the look and feel of a Tuscan garden, the choice is yours. Adding some decorative rocks and lighting systems will finish up your landscape project and give you a front yard that will be the envy of the entire neighborhood.

About the Author:

Knowledge is power - get more power and find out more about landscape lighting. Visit our evergrowing library at http://www.plant-care.com/landscape-lighting.php.