You must be careful in choosing the flowers that you give. The type, kind, or color of the item defines your motive and can give the receiver either a negative or positive effect. Like in giving flowers to your mother, soon-to-be girlfriend, or for your wife, flower types and colors matter. For you to know the right flowers to buy, let me share with you some information about the meaning the various types and color of flowers.

Flower Color & Meaning

Red. This color represents love, passion, and romance. So when you give red flowers, they must only be for a loved one that could be your mother , a spouse, or a girlfriend.

White. The flower color that can help you in showing the purity of your intention. Give someone a white flower if you are serious in dating her.

Yellow. It is good to give yellow flowers to start a friendship towards the woman you want to date. As they say, it all starts with friendship so begin with yellow flowers.

Flower Types & Meaning

Rose. A rose is one of the most romantic and one of the most common flowers you can give to a woman. Most women prefer this type of flower. However, its meaning varies depending on its color. Red is the safest color you can give to someone you love.

Tulips. This is a type of flower that means elegance, it also expresses happiness and perfect love. A woman who sees simplicity as beautiful, and elegance matters most will appreciate this type of flower.

Carnation. This flower also means love just like the rose, and fascination and distinction as well. Giving it to a woman is as romantic as giving a rose. It is commonly used in weddings, but this beautiful flower, if given to woman, may show more sweetness on your part which can make a woman fall.

Most women are fond of knowing the meaning of everything you give them, so you should always be careful in choosing the right flower. Plan and research ahead before purchasing flowers or bouquet. One wrong move and one wrong choice can change everything, so always choose and buy what is right.

 
Parkour or PK originated in France since 1980s by its most well-known founder David Belle. It is known as “l’art du déplacement“ or "the art of displacement." PK male practitioner is called a traceur and traceuse for female. There is no equipment needed for this extreme activity, but a pair of appropriate shoes is highly suggested for your safety.

The Tips

●      A pair of medium lightweight durable shoes is recommended for free movement, consistent speed, and rolling of ankles, that also gives a nice support for your feet.

●      Buy shoes with thin soles for good sensitivity, great for a perfect landing.

●      Soles should be made from sticky rubber for a strong grip, which may allow you to do parkour even in wet conditions.

●      Shoes should fit in well, comfortable, and snug on your feet to avoid it to slip off that can cause hazards.

What to Avoid

●      Bulky shoes may limit your movements.

●      Thick soles can block your sensitivity.

●      Uncomfortable and  loose-fitting shoes may result to imbalance that can cause injuries.

Since PK is an extreme activity, it also needs extreme caution. You need to be careful about the shoes you will wear before going to a parkour training. Choosing what is right is considering your safety first before anything else. Don’t buy cheap if it doesn't offer quality and guarantee safety.
 
Whenever you’re thinking of buying or replacing your old appliances, it is always recommended to choose those that are energy efficient. These appliances will give your house a modern look and will help lower your electric bill every month. To help you pick an energy saving appliance for your home, here are some guidelines you can follow.

Look For The Energy Star® Label

An Energy Star®-labeled appliance is an appliance model that helps you save more money by using less electricity and water than other appliances. Although they cost pretty expensive initially, they let you save money on your electric bill in the long run. Energy Star appliances are also made of quality and technology-advanced materials so you are assured of their efficiency and functionality. 

Purchase the Right Size

When buying new appliances, make sure that you purchase the most suitable size or model for your house. Don’t buy too big or too-high tech appliances if you’re not going to use all of its features. Bulky refrigerators, air conditioners, and washing machines are not only very expensive but they also utilize a large portion of your electricity.

Read the EnergyGuide Label

Another thing the you should pay attention to when buying appliances is the EnergyGuide label. EnergyGuide label is a bright yellow label placed on appliances that indicates how much energy the specific appliance uses. By reading this label, you can compare the energy consumption of each appliance, thereby allowing you to choose the most energy efficient one.

Choose Natural Gas Appliances

When it comes to heat-generating appliances such as stoves, dryers, and water heater, it’s always better to choose those that run on natural gas. Compared to electric ones, natural gas appliances are more efficient as they no longer have to convert energy into heat and are always cheaper than electric appliances

The next time you shop for new appliances, consider following these energy-saving tips. By remembering these tips, rest assured that you will not only have lower electric and water bills but you’ll also do something good for our mother earth.
 
Buying the right items that you need is wise spending, most especially this winter. When buying for winter, people often think that purchasing two or more clothes to keep them warm during the cold season is better than buying a piece of an effective winter clothing. Outerwear such as jackets or coats made from the right fabrics are still the best items your money can buy. For you to know the best winter clothing you should buy, you must know the right fabric it is made from.

Wool

This is one of the best natural fibers that is used to make warm clothing such as jackets and coats. It comes from the fur or hair of different animals such as sheep, goats, and others. Wool fabrics are great for winter clothing for it can retain air and heat because of the consistency of the fabric and its great size.

Polar Fleece

Fleece is a synthetic fabric made from Polyethylene terephthalate. It has some of the finest qualities of wools but lighter in weight compared to the lightest woollens. A warm, soft, comfortable, and lightweight fabric, some people prefer it over traditional wool.

Leather

The most flexible and durable fabric used in clothing usually derived from cattle hides through tanning, leather is among the best winter clothes you can purchase. One of its tough source is the deerskin which is used in jackets and overcoats that are perfect for winter. It is also has an excellent resistance to wind and injury.

For your winter clothing, buy quality products than the cheap ones for longevity and durability. Any of these fabrics can greatly help you keep covered against wind and cold. Through this, you will be able to save money through spending right.
 
A trench coat is a very essential wardrobe that you should always have in your closet. It can be worn during  fall, winter, and spring season, especially when it rains or if it’s cold out. Coats are usually knee-length, waterproof, and heavy duty, and made from durable fabrics like cotton, wool, or leather. It is also known as a fashionable wardrobe, since it transforms a simple outfit like shirt and jeans or dress to a sophisticated one.

Check out below the list I made of must-have trench coats for your guide.

Simple. A simple trench coat in tan or light camel is a must-have for everyday use. Choose a trench with less design, and as much possible. A trench coat with less than four front buttons, only two side pockets, and unbelted is a best choice.

Fashionable. If you’re a fashionista, this should be on the top of your list. Choose a furry, heavy duty, knee-length trench coat with a bold color. Bold colors like tangerine, red, honey gold, and others alike, are the best colors you must have for a more eye-catching look.

Formal. For any formal or business event, an elegant trench coat is a must-have. Choose a double-breasted, three-quarter length, and belted coat. You can either have a black or dark grey velvet or wool and cashmere blend trench coat.

In buying a coat, you must choose carefully. You should know exactly what you need and the budget you have for it. You can also choose a trench coat in a classic style so that you can use it longer.
 
Flowers are great decorations as provide more life and color to your house. However, flowers can easily lose their vibrancy and bloom if not taken care of properly. In order to get more life out of a bouquet, follow these flower-care guidelines.

1. Water is one factor that can prolong the life of cut flowers. When putting flowers inside the vase, use lukewarm water instead of cold water. Lukewarm water has lesser oxygen that can limit the number of air bubbles that block or stop the water uptake in the stems. Also, lukewarm water allows the flower buds to open. However, bulb flowers such as daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths, prefer cold water.

2. In cutting flower stems, use a sharp knife or scissors to allow a larger area for water absorption. Refrain from using dull blades as it can just break the stem that can make your flower’s bloom fade away immediately. You can also recut the stems after a few days to remove airlocks.

3. Place the flowers away from heat sources like plugged in appliances and direct sunlight to avoid dehydration. Also, keep your flowers away from fruits and other plants because they emit ethylene gas that can cause your flower to wilt faster.

4. Change the water daily to eliminate the mold, dirt, and debris accumulating in your flower vase. In doing this, clean the vase with soap and water to remove the bacteria as it can cause your flower to rot easily.

5. Spray a plant freshener on the stems or leaves of the flower. The fresheners can slow down the buildup of bacteria and add more vase life to your flowers. You can make your own freshener by adding a little amount of bleach to a bottle of water and use it as a spray.

The next time you receive or buy flowers, you can follow these simple care techniques to prolong the vase life of your flowers. You will not only have a lovely decoration inside the house but you’ll also bring more harmony to your home.

 
A mattress costs a fortune so it is always better to purchase one that will last longer. Normally, a high quality mattress can last for seven to ten years but if not taken care properly, you’ll have to replace it much sooner. For your mattress to stand the test of time, here are some tips you can follow.

Vacuum Your Mattress

Keeping your mattress fresh and clean is one important step in making it last longer. Vacuum it regularly to get rid of dead skin or other insects that can cause you harm or rip your mattress over time.

Use a Padded Mattress Cover

Padded mattress covers are the most ideal covers as they provide further protection against stain and spills. Also, they offer further comfort during sleep while maintaining the shape of its surface. You can also opt for a waterproof pad if children or pets sleep on the mattress.

Turn or Flip Your Mattress

Mattress manufacturers suggest to turn or flip your mattress to prevent dips and unevenness. If you have a one-sided pillow top, flip it around 180 degrees every few months. For double-sided mattress, flip it regularly. Flipping the mattress from time to time can maintain its shape and increase its longevity.

Use a box spring

A box spring is recommended by manufacturers as it provides proper support that can keep your mattress from dipping in the middle. It is very important in keeping the mattress in good shape and avoiding premature sagging over time.

Don't Jump or Walk on the Mattress

To increase the durability of your mattress, don't jump or walk on it. A mattress is designed for sleeping so jumping or walking on it can cause deformations on the construction that may further result into sleep consequences.

To get the most out of your mattress, you need to take good care of it properly. By just following some simple steps, you may not only increase the life of your mattress but also have a good night’s sleep for many years.
 
Scarves are one of spicing up your overall look. No longer just used as winter clothing, it can also accentuate what you’re wearing. If you want to incorporate a scarf into your daily look, here are some things you can consider.

Length and Shape

The size and shape of the scarf you buy should depend on what style or effect you want to create. You can opt for a square scarf if you prefer to tie it around your neck or a longer one if you prefer to be a little more versatile. Longer scarves can be wrapped around the neck, tied over the head, and worn over the shoulder among others.

Your Body Figure

If you’re slim or thin, choose something that would fit your figure and make sure to avoid bulky or large scarves as they can make you look smaller. For taller individuals, opt for a longer scarf and try to avoid smaller scarves as they create little attention.

Material

Weather or climate is another important factor you need to consider when buying a scarf. Wool or knitted fabric are the best material for a cold night out or the coming winter season. Cotton scarves can be worn during both the summer and winter season, depending on the manner of wear. You can either let it loose if the weather is warm or wrap it around your neck if the weather gets colder. Silk scarves can also work well on warm or cold weather but may be a little insufficient for colder seasons.

Pattern

Consider your height when choosing a scarf pattern. If you’re a tall person, a large pattern may be a little overwhelming for you; the same goes for the small person as the attention can be drawn to the scarf print. The ideal scarf pattern is medium sized or any pattern that you’ll be comfortable wearing and will not drown you out.

Choosing the right scarf will surely add more life to your overall look. Just consider your skin tone, the color palette of your clothes, and the above factors to pull off an instantly fashionable look.
 
Buying things at the thrift store is a good way to save some money. However, buying certain second-hand items can put your safety at risk and may even cost you more money on repairs and safety scale. Read on to know the used items you should stay away from at thrift stores.

Mattresses

Mattresses are the first things you shouldn’t buy at thrift stores as they may be infested with bugs or other icky insects invisible to the eye. These microscopic creatures hiding in the mattress for a long time may cause harm to you or your house guests. It is always better to buy a brand new mattress to guarantee its cleanliness and safety for your family.

Laptops

Since laptops can be carried or placed anywhere, they may dropped, spilled on, or even get viruses. Also, it’s hard to tell if the laptop you’re buying is in good condition since the owner is selling it out. Better buy a new one since new laptops have warranty, guaranteed to be in good condition, and come in low prices too.

Swimsuits or Undergarments

Beachwear and underwear are extremely personal products and have been used to cover some private parts. While it doesn’t really cause too much risk on you, it is uncomfortable knowing that they have been worn by another person you don’t actually know.

Makeup or Cosmetics

Makeup or cosmetics are another personal items you shouldn’t buy at thrift stores. Makeup brushes may come into contact with damaged or irritated skin and can‘t  be cleaned very well. Barely used pressed powder or lipstick may also be hosting bacteria and can damage or irritate your skin. It is always better to buy these items at drug stores or makeup stores since they offer fresh, new, and varieties that will fit your skin type.

Other items you shouldn’t  buy at thrift stores are helmets, hat, shoes, Plasma TV, and second-hand possessions that you are never sure of the quality or condition. It’s always better to take into account of the products’ quality than just being concern about saving a few bucks but can cost you big on the safety scale.
 
Choosing the best quality of meat is the first step to healthy eating and delicious cooking. The quality of meat plays an important role in achieving a desirable result and taste and assures the longevity of the meat. To help you distinguish fresh meat, here are some tips you can consider.

Color

Color is an excellent indicator to tell if the meat is fresh or not. Mostly, the color of the meat varies on the cut or where the animal is coming from. If you’re buying beef, it should have a bright red color, pork should be pinkish, and white or pale yellow if you’re buying chicken. Just avoid meat with discoloration as it can be a sign of poor handling or that the meat has passed its prime.

Texture

The texture of the meat refers how uniform or lean the meat looks. To ensure that the meat is in good condition, its fiber should be intact and firm to the touch. Any meat with loose or uneven fiber only indicates that the meat is of poor quality.

Smell

Smell is another important factor you should consider when buying meat. Although different species of animals have their own smell, you should take note that fresh meat have a normal smell. Avoid meat that has a  foul or strange smell.

Cuts

When buying meat, you should also be observant of the pieces of meat displayed. The meat pieces should be about the same size or thickness, even and smooth with no ragged edges. Only choose well-butchered pieces of meat as they display good quality and proper handling.

These suggestions are all vital in picking the best quality of meat. Just learn to distinguish the difference between a high quality meat to a poor one and you’ll surely make beef, pork, or chicken dishes exciting and healthy as always.