Shower Stalls - Bring a Touch Of Style To Your Bathroom!

Bathroom shower stalls come in all kinds of stylish designs to suit bathrooms of all sizes and themes. If you're thinking of revamping your bathroom, installing a shower stall could be a great way to give the whole room a sleek and modern new image, whilst at the same time offering a practical function. With the busy lifestyles we all lead these days, taking a quick shower rather than waiting for the bathtub to fill is a popular option. Even in smaller bathrooms it's often possible to find the space for a corner shower stall.

Modern shower stalls are made from attractive and durable materials, such as fiberglass, acrylic or tempered glass. Not only does a shower stall look great and bring a touch of luxury to a bathroom, it's designed to provide many years of use. Shower stalls are made to be low maintenance and easy to clean. If you have a particular look in mind you might want to look into getting a custom made stall. For instance, you could choose between clear, colored, molded or etched glass, depending on what would fit in best with your bathroom's new look.

When looking at shower stalls, think about the layout of your bathroom and take accurate measurements to help you choose the best design. Consider whether you want to fit a curtain or a door across the entrance. Fabric shower curtains are inexpensive to buy and are a good way to add a splash of color to your d�cor. Alternatively, frameless shower doors offer a more permanent solution. If you've got the space, a folding door can look very elegant, although sliding doors make better use of a small space. Whatever look you have in mind for your bathroom's makeover, the choice of shower stalls available on the internet offers something to fit in with any theme and budget!

Cashing in for hospital

HUNDREDS of revellers dodged the rain to enjoy a charity garden party.

* BUCKET BRIGADE: The team of charity fundraisers collect cash at the Cowlersley Court garden party in aid of Leeds Children''s Hospital (PW060811Fgarden-01)CAPTION(S):Kirklees Mayor Clr Eric Firth and members of the Royal British Legion were among the celebrity guests.Cowlersley Court Nursing Home moved its fundraiser indoors after the summer showers struck on Saturday afternoon.

* BUCKET BRIGADE: The team of charity fundraisers collect cash at the Cowlersley Court garden party in aid of Leeds Children''s Hospital (PW060811Fgarden-01)

The Air of Home

In the chilly days of winter and early spring, we tend to spend more time indoors, shutting doors and windows against the frosty chill. Unfortunately, we don�t realize that the air in our homes is constantly under attack, and without the stabilization and freshness of outside ventilation in winter, it becomes, not only stuffy and stale, but downright dangerous. Many unnoticeable factors contribute to this toxic air.

Another benefit to dehumidifying the home is that lower humidity helps control yet another elusive air pollutant . . . mold. Flourishing in humid spots like damp basements, refrigerator drip pans, air conditioners, garbage pails, shower stalls, and closets, mold is a common allergic trigger. At least once a quarter, clean drip pans to prevent refrigerator fan from blowing mold spores into the air. Eradicate visible mold with non-toxic cleaning products, and use HEPA filters in air and heat systems. Use exhaust fans in kitchen and bathroom and open windows on low humidity days to refresh household air.Speaking of dust, it contains another invisible pollutant that invades every home . . . microscopic bugs called dust mites. Feasting on shed human and animal skin cells, these fecal-producing dust mites thrive in warm and humid places like beds, furniture, and carpets. Allergies and asthma testing proves that 80% of patients test positive to dust mites. To make your home safer from these unwelcome guests, vacuum and dust thoroughly, weekly, with a vacuum that filters dust and does not allow it back into the air. Using hot-water washing and high-heat drying, launder all bedding weekly. Don�t forget to launder stuffed toys as well, and avoid non-washable stuffed toys. Use anti-allergen covers on bedding, even box springs, and place High-Efficiency, Low-Pressure air filters on heating units and air conditioners. Dehumidify the air, including closets and cabinets, to between 30-50%.Copyright 2006 Dr. Eileen SilvaTaking these safety precautions and adding houseplants to assist you in the ongoing battle against toxic air in your home will help you protect your family and add to their comfort. As you and your family snuggle in on these chilly days, you can have the satisfaction of knowing that you will be breathing safer, fresher air.Consider a quiet room with peaceful music playing, soft candlelight, and fragrance soothing the air. Sound inviting? Unfortunately, candles, especially if they are scented, release toxic soot, carcinogens, and even lead (from wire wicks), that flood the air with enough pollution to ruin computers and furnishings, as well as affect breathing. For people with asthma, lung, or heart disease, the damage is even more pronounced. Fragrance oil candles and container candles don�t burn cleanly and are even more dangerous than open-flame candles. If you must burn candles, choose unscented candles with no petroleum products and wire-free wicks. For aromatherapy, choose diffusers and enjoy cleaner air.Another unsuspected source of air pollution is the family pet. Pet dander (skin flakes) is a nearly invisible pollution that your pet releases as it grooms, releasing dander and proteins from saliva into the air. Bath pet frequently, using dander-reducing shampoo and follow up with an anti-dander spray. Dust home surfaces and vacuum frequently. Use a vacuum that does not release dust back into the air. It is wise to wear a dust mask when cleaning. A clean pet and a dust-free home will help both pet and family to be healthier.In addition to cleaning, ventilating, and filtering, there is another, much more pleasant, way to clean the air in your home . . . houseplants. Not only to they contribute to the humidity balance and oxygen level of the home, but they clean pollutants, gasses, and toxins out of the air. A plant for every 10 square yards of floor space will both cleanse and beautify your home. Plants should be away from drafts and placed in appropriate lighting for their requirements. Ten of the most effective at ridding the air of off-gassed chemicals and contributing to humidity levels are: Areca palm, Reed palm, Dwarf date palm, Boston fern, Janet Craig dracaena, English ivy, Australian sword fern, Peace Lily, Rubber plant, and Weeping fig. Some of these can even survive in dark corners, as they originated in shady tropical forests.

Copyright 2006 Dr. Eileen Silva

Author: Eileen Silva

Nail Fungus - No Need To Keep Living With The Infection

Nail disorders are rarely disabling or even painful. But they are a nuisance. One of the most common problems is toenail fungus (medical name onychomysosis)-about 15% of people have it, including nearly half of those over 70.

Focus on Your ChallengesYour nails may smell bad.� Tight shoes that pinch the toesFor example, one homeowner hired a designer to help her reorganize her tiny office so she could be more productive. Instead, the designer suggested that she move her entire operation downstairs, into the den she used once every two months to watch movies. She did, tripling her space and doubling her productivity in just three months.� Avoid walking barefoot in public areas, such as locker rooms.� Perspiring heavilyFor more information about coping with nail fungus and other diseases you can visit my site http://www.gene-alliance.com/antifungal.html.� Wear waterproof gloves for wet work (like washing dishes or floors). To protect your fingers, wear 100 percent cotton gloves for dry work.� Discomfort from the infection may make it hard to walk, work, or do other activities.Other risk factors that can increase your risk of developing nail fungus are:You�re looking for someone you instantly trust and respect, who communicates excitement about your project, no matter how big or small, and who trusts and respects you as well. After all, this person is transforming your most sacred and cherished space!These are just some simple steps to do for your infection. The first step to beating nail fungus is getting a diagnosis. Your doctor will likely examine your nails first. Knowing the cause of your infection helps determine the best course of treatment.When your doctor diagnose your infection ,he will (most often) prescribe you some oral antifungal medication.It’s quite impossible to beat fungus without proper medications.� Walking barefoot in damp public places ,such as swimming pools,gyms and shower roomsYour home environment should complement and support the way you and your family really live � or really want to live. For example, if you�re starting a home-based business, you might turn your cluttered garage into a functional office. If your spouse loves to cook, you might knock down a wall so the under-used formal dining room becomes part of the kitchen. Many families make the mistake of letting the layout of the home dictate their activities vs. reorganizing the space to embrace their lifestyles.Choosing the Right Designer: Beyond the PortfolioInfections of nail fungus account for about half of all nail disorders. These infections usually develop on nails continually exposed to warm, moist environments, such as sweaty shoes or shower floors. nail infections may be difficult to treat and may recur often.� People whose hands are often wet (for example, dishwashers in restaurants and professional house cleaners) are more likely to get fungal fingernail infections.� Nails may get flaky, brittle, and chipped.Professionally trained Interior Designers have undergone extensive training in the various elements of modern and historical design, art and architecture. They have a basic foundation of knowledge that allows them to develop concepts in a variety of styles that range from traditional, contemporary, art deco, eclectic�or a combination of several styles.What are the symptoms of nail infection ?� Don't use the same nail trimmer or file on healthy nails and infected nails. If you have your nails professionally manicured, you should bring your own nail files and trimmers from home.Contrary to TV, where designers admonish clients for questioning their plans, real-life designers understand that you�re the person who ultimately needs to love the space. They want you to be happy and want you to give your input so you�re absolutely thrilled with the results (and so you�ll recommend them to your friends)! That�s why they do so much probing upfront about your tastes and how you live, then incrementally present their ideas throughout the process.To ensure that your designer understands how you live now and how you want to live, share as many details with her as you can. Also share your personal tastes so she can incorporate them into the designs. If you hate plaid, tell her now, before she gets too deep into the first draft.� Bits of "gunk" or debris may collect under your nails.A fast overview of the disease can really help us to get rid of it.What are the causes of the nail infection and how did you get it ?� Wear shoes with good support and a wide toe area. Don't wear pointed shoes that press your toes together.A great benefit of using a professional designer is that she has access to materials unavailable to the general public, so no matter what your budget, your home will feel unique and very �you.�Your designer will also manage the entire process, whether it involves space planning, lighting design, purchasing, ordering, selecting finishes or monitoring the construction and installation of the project elements.Primarily you may see, smell, or feel a nail fungus infection once it takes hold.You�ll need to learn the basics of choosing the right design professionals, establishing a budget, outlining the details of the contract, considering your lifestyle and communicating your challenges.That being said, not every designer�s talent is right for every project. For yours, you�ll want to choose someone whose portfolio �speaks� to you in a positive way. As with every profession, designers tend to develop personal styles that carry over into their projects. It could be the sense of clarity and order you see in the furniture arrangements, or maybe it�s a color palette that�s used in a unique way. It could be the modern touches worked seamlessly into a roomful of antiques, or the interesting textures of the fabrics.� Nails may look brownish, yellowish, or have little white patches. Some may even be brown or black.You�ve selected the designers and signed the contract � now comes the fun part!Everyone has a budget, so don�t feel bad about setting yours in stone�or tile, or brick. No matter what the amount, your designer should help you get the best value and the highest quality possible. Be wary of anyone that summarily dismisses your grand ideas based on budget alone: A first-rate designer will work hard to achieve your key design goals, perhaps by spreading the job out over time or suggesting alternative solutions for your project.� Keep your nails cut short and file down any thick areas.

For more information about coping with nail fungus and other diseases you can visit my site http://www.gene-alliance.com/antifungal.html.

Author: Richard Clement

Making The Most Of Your Smart Decision To Hire An Interior Designer

So you�ve decided to hire an Interior Designer�good move! Now what? Before you start planning your �reveal� party, you�ll need a basic understanding about the process to ensure that you get the most design for your dollar and that you have a fun and fabulous experience, no matter what type of project is ahead of you.

First, your healthcare provider will look closely at your nails. If your healthcare provider thinks you have nail fungus, he may perform a test. Your healthcare provider may clip off a small piece of your nail so that it can be examined. It may be examined in the office or sent out to a lab. This is the only way to know if you really have nail fungus.The sooner you visit your doctor and get diagnosed , the sooner, you can stop the infection from getting worse and begin to see healthier nails grow again.Fungal nail infections may be difficult to treat and may become a reservoir for fungal organisms, causing their recurrence in the skin or nails.� SmokingAnyone can get a fungal nail infection. They are especially common in people with diabetes or circulation problems. Children hardly ever get fungal nail infections.� Wear 100 percent cotton socks. Change your socks when they are damp from sweat or if your feet get wet. Put on clean, dry socks every day.Outlining Terms of the ContractA designer works best when you share your �wish list,� express your ideas, and then keep an open mind. That means communicating how you want to live in the space and then entrusting the designer to make it happen. After all, you hired this person for her experience, talent and vision!Establishing a Realistic BudgetTo help you better prepare yourself, answer these questions before you have your first meeting with the designer:

• Are you a creative person? In what ways does your home limit your creativity or your hobbies?
• Do you like the present color palette? Does it need updating?
• Are they any rooms that feel cramped or stuffy? Any rooms that feel empty, cold or unwelcoming?
• Is adequate, well-organized storage a problem? Can you find things when you need them?
• Are your bathrooms functional, pleasing spaces? Do you or family members have special needs (e.g. grab bars, easy-entrance shower stalls, etc.)?
• As you walk through your rooms, jot down your favorite qualities about each. Do you like the proportions? Is there adequate ventilation and lighting throughout your house?
• Are there any rooms that you don�t use regularly? Could any of these rooms be used for more than one function? Could any of these rooms be used for a completely different function?
• Does your home balance open space and private areas?
• Does the entryway do its job of setting the stage for the rest of your home by welcoming guests and making a statement about the people who live there? If you normally come into your home through the garage, does that area welcome you?

� Nails may get so thick that wearing shoes causes pain.That's why it's so hard to reach and stop nail fungus.Most often, nail fungus appears in the toenails. This is because socks and shoes keep the toenails dark, warm, and moist. This is a perfect place for the fungus to grow.The organisms that make up nail fungus can sometimes spread from one person to another because these organisms can live where the air is often moist and people's feet are bare. This can happen in places like shower stalls, bathrooms, or locker rooms.Nail fungus may also spread from one of your nails to other nails.People with diabetes are nearly three times more likely to get nail fungus infection as people without diabetes. Because people with diabetes have circulation problems, left untreated, the infection can often lead to more severe health problems on the foot.These days there is one very effective drug to treat nail fungus. Lamisil (Terbinafine hydrochloride) is prescribed for the treatment of onychomycosis of the toenail or fingernail due to dermatophytes .Terbinafine is in a class of medications called antifungals. It works by stopping the growth of fungi.The fungus under your nails is attracted to keratin, one of the substances in your nails and skin. The fungus feeds on keratin deep under the nail in the nail bed. Terbinafine is also attracted to keratin. It can be there to attack the infection. Surface treatments may not be able to reach it in sufficient amounts, so terbinafine hydrochloride is given orally in tablet form, which is absorbed through the bloodstream to reach the infection. Lamisil Tablets are the #1 prescribed treatment for nail fungus infection worldwide.And because nail fungus infection can be so tough to treat, the medicine from Lamisil Tablets will stay in the nail bed months after your prescription is done and continue fighting the infection so you can grow clearer, healthier nails.Terbinafine comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken for 6 weeks for fingernail fungus and once a day for 12 weeks for toenail fungus ,but you won't see the end result of treatment until the nail grows back completely. It may take four to 12 months to eliminate an infection.Considering Your Lifestyle� Wearing socks and shoes that hinder ventilation and don't absorb perspirationHere are some things you can do to take care of your nails if you have a fungal infection:The body normally hosts a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi. Some of these are useful to the body. Others may multiply rapidly and form infections. Fungi can live on the dead tissues of the hair, nails, and outer skin layers. An infection of nail fungus (called-onychomycosis) occurs when fungi infect one or more of your nails. Onychomycosis usually begins as a white or yellow spot under the tip of your fingernail or toenail. This commonly affects toe nails rather than finger nails. The infection actually eats your skin and nail, so it can continue growing and may spread to other nails. Your nails may look "different," be so thick they're hard to trim, and may cause you discomfort, pain or tenderness that disrupts daily activities.The prevalence of onychomycosis is about 15% in the adult population.Nail fungus is made up of tiny organisms that can infect fingernails and toenails. These organisms are called dermatophytes. Nail fungus is very common.The nail fungus moves in under the nail. The nail provides a safe place for the fungus and protects it while it grows.Anything that damages a nail can make it easier for the fungus to move in, such as:These symptoms may not get better. In fact, if nail fungus infections are not treated, they may get worse.� An injury (like banging a fingernail with a hammer)Referrals are the best way to find a designer, so if the home of a friend or colleague appeals to you, by all means ask them for the designer�s number! You can also visit Web sites to get a better feel for the designer�s talent and personal style. Expect to spend a bit of time on the phone discussing your project with the designer and/or completing a questionnaire that will give them a better feel for your tastes and your project prior to the kickoff meeting.How to take care on the infection ?This infection has received a great deal of press and advertisement time, as there are finally therapies that actually successfully eradicate these infections.

Hiring a designer is like giving a gift to yourself! You made the smart decision to hire an Interior Designer, you�ve been smart about the planning process, and now you can rest assured that the time, money and energy you spend returns truly smart, stunning results!

Author: Karen Trubner-Kent

Healthy Fall Housecleaning

As your calendar pages fly by, carrying you through October and into November, many of you will participate in that age-old tradition called fall housecleaning. You'll be packing up the swim toys, summer clothes, picnic baskets, and oscillating fans. Then you'll dig out the winter coats, boots, comfy afghans, fireplace tools, and, if you are lucky enough to live where snow falls, sleds and ice skates.

Remember that your family pet also contributes to toxic air and allergies. Pet dander (skin flakes) is a nearly invisible pollution that your pet releases as it grooms, releasing dander and proteins from saliva into the air. Bathe pet, using dander-reducing shampoo, and follow up with an anti-dander spray. To help keep pet dander allergies down, install HEPA filters in air and heat systems to help keep the air clean.When your fall housecleaning is finished, sit back, put your feet up, relax with a cup of herbal tea before the fire, and know that both you and your family will enjoy your cleaner, healthier home in the winter months ahead.Saturday evening we actually watched a safety video for whitewater kayaking and in the video I realized that advanced whitewater kayaking is a pretty dangerous sport and the risk of drowning or hurting yourself by getting entrapped in rocks or "strainers" (fallen tree branches that stick out of the water) is substantial and must be avoided at all cost. We also learned that working as a team and rescuing one's team mates are critical life-saving skills. By this time I had already decided that I would trade my second day of kayaking lessons in for some mountain biking on Sunday, combined with a little photo safari of Calumet Island.My brother-in-law Roger, a consummate graphic designer and visual artist, had recently taught me how to do close-up shots of plants and other objects, so I started experimenting taking close-range shots of plants and flowers right next to the Ottawa River. This was the first time I experimented with this photo technique and I have to say I was reasonably pleased with the outcome once I came home last night and downloaded the images.You can find mold in damp basements, refrigerator drip pans, air conditioners, garbage pails, shower stalls, and closets. There are non-toxic cleaning products that will get rid of existing mold. As an extra precaution, use exhaust fans in kitchen and bathroom and open windows on low humidity days to refresh household air. Don't forget to dust and clean heating units and oil burners, checking for foreign objects in heating elements.Saturday morning we got started early, we actually got woken up by the mooing of cows in the farmers field next door at about 6 am. Other campers reported that some of the cows took a walk right through the camp ground and actually left some sizeable paddies behind. It was fabulous to be in a tent again after not having gone camping for about 8 years.... We got a simple breakfast, some pancakes and pre-packaged muffins (some of them a little furry) and we started picking our kayak gear and headed off with our knowledgeable guide Christine and her helper Krista in a van to the Ottawa River. We got suited up with our life jackets, helmets and sprayskirs, and then put our kayaks in the water.By following common sense precautions, including proper hygiene and regular inspection of the feet and toes, the chances of the problem occurring can be sharply reduced, or halted.-Wash your feet regularly with soap and water.
-Remember to dry your feet thoroughly after washing.
-Properly fitted shoes are essentialAs you do your fall housecleaning, remember to focus on those areas that contribute to allergies. A multitude of things in your home can trigger allergies, from mold, to dust in bedding and on furniture, to your family pet. Even those friendly, burning candles can contribute to toxic air and allergy problems. Let's discuss these allergy-producing problem areas.Here are a few tips to help you make the most of this time-honored tradition. Not only can you make your home clean, well ordered, and homey, ready for the long winter months, but you can actually make it a healthier place for your family and improve your own personal health as you work.After my 2 hour mountain biking excursion I spent the rest of Sunday exploring the island in my car and drove through rolling hills and farm land. Upon my return to the camp ground I spread out a blanket under a tree and did some open-air reading. All the other campers were gone to either river raft or kayak, and the campground was totally quiet, all you could hear were the crickets and an occasional moo from a cow. It was serenity at its best. The other rafters and kayakers came back in the afternoon and they all reported that they had had a fabulous time at their respective water sports.

Copyright (c) 2006 Dr. Eileen Silva

Author: Eileen Silva

Nail Fungus Treatment And Prevention

Nail fungus treatment is very important. The sooner you begin treatment the better. If left untreated, nail fungus can become very painful and unsightly. Unfortunately many people ignore nail fungus until the symptoms worsen.

On my way back from the river I had an interesting encounter: I drove by a barn and saw 2 horses grazing in the distance. They looked up and noticed me, and as if on cue, two other horses came out of the barn as well. They started approaching me, as I was standing on the side of the road, behind a wire fence. All four horses came trotting towards me. About half way from me they stopped in unison, checked me out, then looked at each other, figured they had seen all they needed to see, and trotted off in perfect coordination again. It was a really comical cross-species encounter and I ended up chuckling to myself when the horses disappeared again into the barn.I had a devil of a time getting my sprayskirt over the kayak's opening because it was so tight. We started with simple paddling exercises in the calm waters of the Rocher Fendu dam and first learned how to do a "wet exit": after you tip the kayak and are underneath the vessel (panic time for most people) we were taught to rip the sprayskirt off and swim our way out of the kayak.I have to admit, I am a pretty athletic person, and I love speedy sports like downhill skiing and mountain biking, and I am actually pretty good at them. But some things about whitewater kayaking gave me the chills, just the idea of getting entrapped upside down underneath the kayak, possibly snagged by a rock underneath the water, and not being able to get back up freaked me out.Copyright (c) 2006 Dr. Eileen SilvaNail fungus (also called onychomycosis) is made up of very small organisms that can infect fingernails and toenails. These organisms are called dermatophytes. Fungi are parasitic plant organisms, such as molds and mildew. These parasitic organisms lack chlorophyll and therefore do not require sunlight for growth. Nail fungus is very common. More than 35 million people in the US have it under their nails.Once the nail fungus moves in under the nail, it is difficult to reach and stop. The nail provides a safe place for the fungus and protects it while it grows. This is why basic prevention is so important.What is nail fungusAs each room is completed, you may want to set a homey scene with aromatic candles. Unfortunately, candles, especially if they are scented, release toxic soot, carcinogens, and even lead (from wire wicks), that flood the air with enough pollution to ruin computers and furnishings and affect breathing, especially for people with asthma, lung, or heart disease. Fragrance oil candles and container candles don't burn cleanly and are even more dangerous than open-flame candles. You can use diffusers for aromatherapy and choose unscented candles with no petroleum products and wire-free wicks for atmosphere.Tips to avoid nail fungus:To be honest, I never quite got the hang of it. We were taught skills like "ferrying", i.e. getting across a current at an angle, or the "T-rescue", where a second kayak comes up to you after you have tipped your kayak and are trapped underneath the boat in the water. You are then supposed to tap on your own kayak 3 times to make noise to alert other paddlers that you have capsized. Then you have to reach along the side of the boat to locate the second kayak, and then you put both hands on the other kayak and twist yourself out from underneath your own vessel with a flick of the hips.You'll be busy cleaning out the dust and grime tracked in by kids and dogs and by breezes blowing through open windows all the busy summer long. Before you snuggle in for the winter to enjoy family evenings around the crackling fireplace or have those holiday gatherings with all their hustle and bustle, you'll probably wax, polish, and clean your house until the fireplace glow is reflected throughout the room.So Sunday morning, after my interview with Krista, she was kind enough to lend me her mountain bike and I grabbed my camera and started my discovery of Calumet Island, a large island in the Ottawa River wedged between Ontario and Quebec. I cycled through forests, rolling hills, grazing pastures and past a few extremely well-kept country properties. I spent about an hour cycling on dirt roads to the edge of the Ottawa River where I started to experiment with my camera a little bit.

-Wash your feet regularly with soap and water.
-Remember to dry your feet thoroughly after washing.
-Properly fitted shoes are essential

Author: Scott Mogul