Just the right size: How to shop online

Shopping online for clothes has many benefits. There is the convenience of shopping from the comfort of your home when you don't have time to drive to a store and browse the racks. It is also great for researching the best price for an item you already know you want, especially for wardrobe staples like a white button-down blouse or a pair of skinny jeans. There is also the thrill of finding a package with your name on it waiting at your doorstep.andnbsp;

Still, the concern that stops many people from pushing their virtual shopping basket to check out is sizing. To learn how to order just the right size when shopping online for clothes, follow this advice from fashion school pros in Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Measure yourself

"It may seem simple, but invest in a measuring tape," says Claude Brown, academic director of the Fashion Design and the Fashion Marketing and Management programs at The Art Institute of California - Los Angeles. "It costs less than five bucks, and will make all the difference when finding your right size online."

Sizing can vary widely from brand to brand notes Brown, who also designs his own collection of dresses and sportswear. So if you are trying a new and unfamiliar brand, a key first step is to measure your waist, hips, bust and inseam.

Retailer sites will often have measuring guides that describe where and how to measure. Two measuring tips from Geetika Gupta, an instructor at The Art Institute of California - San Francisco who teaches courses in both fashion design and fashion marketing, is to always measure over undergarments and allow the tape to roughly skim the body, not sag or cut in.

Read charts and descriptions

Gupta, who runs her own fashion design and wholesaling business, also advises to take a close look at the size charts of the brand you are browsing. "With your measurements in hand you can figure out where you generally fit into a brand's size ranges. Then what you want to do is read the garment description and look for keywords based on fit." she says. Indicator words such as "high-waisted" or "boy fit" can help you decide if an item might be the right shape or style for your body, and better align with your fit preferences, which are very personal.

Brown also cautions that you can't just rely on photos either. One of the reasons clothes can look perfect on the models is because sometimes a garment is clipped, pinned or taped to the body to look just so.

Look for low-cost shipping

Online shopping features like a live chat, virtual shopping assistants and runway videos are occasionally available, but with your measurements and new-found product knowledge, can be less applicable. Some retailer websites offer to adjust the inseam before they ship your order, which can be worthwhile, says Gupta. "However, beware the quality from mass customization websites where you enter your measurements to receive customized pieces of clothing," she warns.andnbsp;

"In general, dresses, skirts and blouses can be easier to assess size and fit," Gupta says. "I also look for sites with free or low-cost return shipping and like to order two sizes of the same item so I can try both on." She does this until she is familiar with a brand and how it fits her.andnbsp;

To learn more about The Art Institutes schools, visit www.artinstitutes.edu.

Courtesy of ARA

Holiday recipes with a twist

The invitations are arriving. Office parties, family parties, school parties and the list goes on; it's a sign the holiday season is fast approaching.

To make your season a little less stressful and a lot more delicious, Snyder's of Hanover has compiled the perfect holiday dessert recipes, all with a unique pretzel twist. So instead of bringing the typical cookies and cupcakes, make your dessert stand out with a trip down the snack aisle for pretzels.

Holiday Pretzel Wreath

Ingredients:
1 package (about 6 ounces) of your favorite chocolate (milk, dark, or white)
1 bag (9 or 10 ounces) of Snyder's of Hanover pretzels (mini's, thins, or homestyle)
Red and green candies (chocolate shell candies, jelly beans, sugar sprinkles)
1 package of red shoestring licorice
Wax paper

Directions:
Line a cookie sheet with wax paper. Melt chocolate in microwave or double boiler; stir. Using tongs or a fork, dip the pretzels into the chocolate and layer in a circle, like a wreath, onto the wax paper. After the wreath(s) are formed, use the red and green candies to sprinkle or place on top of the wreath(s). When you have completed the wreath(s), cool until set. Once the chocolate has set, use the shoestring licorice to tie into a bow, at the top of the wreath.

Peanut Butter Pretzel Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Ingredients:
1 cup butter, softened
1 cup peanut butter
1 cup sugar
1 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 eggs
3 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 3/4 cups crushed Snyder's of Hanover Mini Pretzels
1 (11.5 ounce) bag semi-sweet chocolate chunk morsels or chips

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Beat butter, peanut butter and sugars until creamed. Add vanilla and eggs and mix well. Add flour, baking powder and baking soda and mix. Finally add crushed pretzel pieces and chocolate chunks, mix until combined. Using a small cookie scoop, place cookie dough on ungreased cookie sheets, making sure they are 2 inches apart from each other. Bake for eight to 10 minutes. Cool on a wire rack and store in an airtight container. Used with permission from butmamaimhungry.blogspot.com/2009/08/peanut-butter-pretzel-chocolate-chunk.html.

Fruit Tart with Pretzel Crust

Ingredients:
Crust:
3 cups finely crushed Snyder's of Hanover Pretzels
2/3 cup sugar
1 1/4 cups cold butter or margarine

Topping:
1 (14 ounce) can of sweetened condensed milk
1/4 cup lime juice
1 tablespoon lime zest
1 1/2 cups whipped topping
7 cups assorted fresh fruit, sliced

Directions:
In a large bowl, mix crushed pretzels and sugar. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press into a 9-by-9 brownie pan or small casserole dish. Bake at 375 Fahrenheit for 10 minutes or until set. Cool at room temperature and then refrigerate for 45 minutes. Meanwhile, combine milk, lime juice and lime zest. Fold in whipped topping. Spread on cold "pizza." Top with fruits. Keep refrigerated.

The invitations are coming, but now you're prepared. Just make a quick run to the grocery store and visit the snack aisle for a wide selection of Snyder's of Hanover branded pretzels, including minis, sticks, or homestyle. For even more fun holiday recipes visit www.snydersofhanover.com/Recipes.

Includes recipes.

Courtesy of ARA

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Signs that termites might be invading your house

Termites live to eat. Their hunger causes $5 billion worth of damage each year in the U.S., damage most homeowner's insurance doesn't cover. In fact, a colony can devour a foot of 2-by-4 wood in only six months. And since termites are masters at going undetected, they can destroy entire support beams before you discover their presence. That's why it's so important to know what to look for.

The warning signs of termites

Most termite species like to stay underground and within walls, where it's dark and damp. Here are some signs to look for:

* Mud tubes - The easiest sign to detect. These pencil-width paths lead from a nest directly into your home and make it easy for termites to avoid sunlight. Check the surrounding land, any crawl spaces and your basement.andnbsp;

* Swarms - Reproductive termites grow wings and fly during spring and fall. Check for this type of termite and the wings they shed.

* Piles - Drywood termites leave sawdust-like piles around windowsills and cracks in woodwork or beams. You might also see what looks like collections of dirt at the base of walls and in corners.andnbsp;

* Weakened wood - Long, thin cracks and sagging can be signs that wood has been hollowed out by termites. (Holes in wood are not commonly caused by termites, and may be a sign of beetles or carpenter ants.)

What a termite control professional can do for you

Termite professionals have years of experience and expertise when it comes to using the right treatment method for your unique situation. Different techniques are required based on the location of termite activity, the type of foundation you have and even the number of porches and patios. And just because the obvious signs of an infestation aren't there, such as mud tunnels or splitting wood, it doesn't mean that termites aren't. There are a number of professional termite control products on the market today, including DuPont Altriset. It works by paralyzing the mouths of termites within hours of exposure, stopping further damage immediately.andnbsp;

Your risk and how to reduce it

Risk level varies, largely depending on where you live. However, there are common measures that will make your home less appetizing to termites.

* Termites like moisture - Eliminate water in gutters and puddles or any other areas where water might gather on or near your home. Repair any plumbing or drainage problems. Laying down plastic barriers in crawl spaces, basements and attics will help keep them dry.

* Don't provide termites with extra food - Remove lumber or freestanding wood from the base of your home. Don't plant trees too close and clip away any vegetation, such as shrubs, that might be touching the foundation or walls.

* Damp spots and cracks are an open invitation - Check outdoor faucets and gutters for leaks and ventilate humid crawl spaces. Repair cracks and holes in the foundation with caulk, closing off termite entry.andnbsp;

* Don't take any chances - Have your home inspected each year by a professional. It doesn't take long and can mean early detection - saving you time and money.

A smart way to protect your investment

By mimicking a substance found in certain tree bark, DuPont Altriset paralyzes the mouths of termites to stop them from feeding within hours of exposure. It also clings to their bodies undetected and enhances social behavior so that it is spread quickly throughout the colony. Your home is termite-free within three months and protected for years to come. To learn more about how Altriset works and how it can help protect your home, visit Altriset.com. Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to termites.

IMAGE CAPTIONS:

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Caption 1: Early detection is the best way to protect your home.

Caption 2: A termite colony can devour a foot of 2-by-4 wood in only six months, according to Michigan State University research.

Courtesy of ARA

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Enhance your wedding with memorable aromas

Weddings are a feast for the senses. Anyone who's been part of planning a wedding knows that every detail of the sights, sounds and tastes of the event are given attention. But what about the aromas? You can make your special day even more memorable by using the clean, natural scents of pure essential oils to create the perfect atmosphere for your celebration.

The ceremony. The fragrance we inhale during any important event often becomes inextricably linked with our memories of that event. In fact, the scents that your guests encounter when they first enter the wedding venue are no less important than the decorations they see. So pick a scent that you want the wedding to be remembered by. Take cues from the style of your gown, the time of year and the setting. Here are some examples of how you might match essential oils to your event:

* Elegant little white dress during the warm season (especially outdoors) is the perfect stage for fresh aromas such as citrus (bergamot, sweet orange, grapefruit) and orange flower (neroli).

* Traditional lace dress with tulle and train in a church setting trends toward timeless rose and jasmine underpinned with the balsamic, resinous scents of frankincense and sandalwood.

* Bold color dress choice in an autumn or wintertime setting equals luscious aromas of spice and fruit, coriander, cardamom, tangerine and Mandarin orange.

The reception. You'll want to stay very low key here. Since aroma and taste are so intricately intertwined, you don't want to introduce outside aromas that might clash with the flavors and aromas produced by any food you're serving. There may be opportunities for subtle citrus or spice scents - perhaps at an isolated drink or snack table - but for the most part, let the aromas of the food prevail.

The dance. When the tables are cleared, and it's time to kick up your heels, reinforce the change by introducing a distinct party aroma. Take a cue from the kind of music you're offering:

* String quartet and elegant classical music: sophisticated cedarwood, balsamic myrrh, and earthy vetiver, sweetened with a generous dose of sweet orange.

* Lively dance band: tangy-sweet lime, bergamot, sweet orange, and spicy, candy-like fennel, anise and coriander seed.

* DJ spinning contemporary tunes: invigorating peppermint, spearmint, and uplifting citrus (lemon, sweet orange).

Diffusion is the key to designing an aromatic ambience at your wedding. This can be accomplished using a variety of apparatus that feature a fan and/or heat to propel the evaporation of the essential plant oils into the air. Simply place the oils in the device according to the instructions and add more as needed. Visit www.auracacia.com for more tips on using essential oils as well as a wide selection of plug in diffusers, vaporizers, candle lamps and essential oils.

By considering aroma - along with color, sound and flavor - during the planning stages of your celebration, you can create a complete and memorable impression on your big day.

Courtesy of ARA

Five reasons why buying a home is still a good idea

A still murky economy and uncertain real estate market may have you wondering if buying a home is a good idea. Whether you're thinking about buying, or already have and just need some affirmation, you may find it comforting to know there are still plenty of good reasons for financially stable people to buy a house. Here are a few:

* Homeownership can help make good credit even better. If your credit is in poor shape, you'll want to monitor it before seeking a mortgage. But if you have good credit, live within your means, and consistently make good financial decisions, a mortgage can be the kind of "good debt" that helps your overall financial health. Making regular payments on a mortgage shows potential lenders that you're a less risky candidate for a home loan. Before you begin home shopping, it's a good idea to check your credit. Enrolling in a product like freecreditscore.com can help you better understand and leverage your credit.

* A mortgage can function like an automatic savings plan. By now, you've read the news reports about how little we Americans save these days. Well, every year you pay on your fixed-rate mortgage, is a year of building equity, and equity is like money in the bank. When it's time to sell - whether you've stayed in your home seven years or the full 30 year term - you'll have created equity and should be able to sell your house for more than you owe.

* Homeownership comes with plenty of financial perks, including an income tax credit for property taxes you pay on your home. For detailed information on tax breaks check out IRS.gov. Buying a home also affords you the opportunity to halt your housing costs. Rent will always go up from year to year, but if you have a fixed-rate mortgage (avoid adjustable rates) your biggest annual expense - housing costs - will be locked-in.

* Mortgage interest is a good deal when stacked up against other types of interest that don't do much for you - such as high credit card interest rates or low rates on savings accounts and CDs. Mortgage rates are low right now, meaning you can pay less over the life of a loan than at practically any other time in recent history. Plus, it's the only kind of interest that you can deduct from your taxes.

* Prices are still relatively low and inventory is high. It's been a buyer's market for a long time, but that's going to change. The question is: when will the market start to improve in your area, taking home prices with it? You'll have to do some legwork and astute research to determine when is the best time for you to buy.

If you monitor your credit and are on a sound financial footing, buying a home can still be a good idea. And now is as good a time as any to make your purchase.

Courtesy of ARA

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Easy exterior projects that add lasting beauty to your home

In the current economy, homeowners want to improve their home's exterior while saving time, labor and money. You can enhance your lifestyle by choosing options that extend product performance and add beauty and enjoyment to outdoor living.andnbsp;

The easy patio fix that's eco-friendly

Adding pavers to any outdoor area can transform cracked slabs or troubled grass areas into virtually instantaneous living space. But most do-it-yourselfers shy away from working with heavy concrete or brick. Andy Vander Woude of AZEK VAST Pavers says you can install a new patio, walkway or driveway with new pavers that install three times faster on a unique grid system over a traditional sub-base. At less than half the weight of concrete, they contain up to 95 percent recycled scrap tires and plastics. "There is no need for wet saws or heavy equipment," Vander Woude said. "You can also resurface an old patio, deck or flat roof without the sub-base preparation - just assemble the grid and lay the pavers in like a big puzzle." He added, "It's a way to create instant living space that respects the planet."andnbsp;

Add curb appeal for lasting first impressionsandnbsp;

You can increase curb appeal with stylish and functional, quality amenities that dress up an entryway, yard, patio, porch or deck. According to the experts at Walpole Woodworkers, known for outdoor furnishings handcrafted in Maine since 1933, consider classic accents such as lantern and mailbox posts, pergolas, arbors, window boxes, deck planters and birdhouses handcrafted from new advanced materials, with long-lasting benefits and low-maintenance. Walpole offers these and many other products handcrafted in modern cellular PVC. This advanced material looks just like natural wood, but won't rot, split, or warp and will maintain its good looks for years, virtually maintenance free. Call 1-800-343-6948 for a free catalog.andnbsp;

Light up the night

With the emergence of inspired outdoor living spaces and new trends in materials, it only makes sense that homeowners search for a way to enjoy their deck parties well into the night. Deck rail lighting has become extremely popular, with LEDs the preferred way to create ambient lighting. Michael Gori, Director of Product Management at AZEK Building Products, makers of AZEK Deck, said lighted post caps and light strips concealed under the hand rail are in high demand. "The lighted post caps add an elegant touch, while the hand rail lighting casts a downward glow, reducing hot spots and attraction to insects," he said. "The combination of the two light sources adds a dramatic effect for nighttime entertaining." Gori adds, "With warm, ambient lighting, there's no longer a need to head indoors when the sun goes down."

Know when to paint caulkandnbsp;

Did you ever poke your finger at a caulk bead to see if it's dry and ruin your nice work? "Caulk needs to dry for about one to two hours, before it can be painted-whether you're working indoors or out," says Jason Ringling, marketing director at Red Devil, a company with a 140-year old history in the industry. "Painting too soon can cause sagging and cracking and then the entire job has to be re-done." He says that there is a new technology called ColorCure sealant that turns from pink to white when it's ready to paint, so there's no guesswork. And if the job gets interrupted, you know exactly where you left off. "Formulations are getting smarter to help you work more efficiently," he adds.

When fixing up or adding beautifying elements to your home exterior, be sure to investigate all the options--from new formulations in caulks and sealants to alternatives to traditional materials that offer easy installation and better performance over time.

Courtesy of ARA

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