»hinweisschild für die erdkugel« by timm ulrichs (+)
quinta-feira, março 17, 2016
A Father And His Kids Make A Beautiful Project To Commemorate His Late Wife (4 pics)
After this father lost his wife, he decided to do this 'candle project' in memory of his loving wife and mother.
He made one memory candle by using the remains of the nine candles that his wife had purchased.
Here's what he said about it: "This project was a way to help me and my kids cope with our loss. It is a part of our grieving process. And we can smell all those familiar smells again.”5 Invaluable Lessons Chefs Can Teach Us About Life
“You better cut the pizza in four pieces because I’m not hungry enough to eat six.”
– Yogi Berra
Nearly a decade ago I was hired by Le Cordon Blue College of Culinary Arts, sparking my fascination with the culinary industry. Suddenly, I was surrounded by insatiable food, creativity, and passion. As if I wasn’t sold already, one thing became clear: food is amazing! It holds the power to unite, nourish our bodies, and create lasting memories. Even a single bite can transport us effortlessly to years past.
After befriending talented chefs, it wasn’t long before I realized parallels between their work in the kitchen and the world at large. It became clear to me that we all can learn a thing or two from them.
Here are the top 5 invaluable lessons chefs can teach us about life.
1. Preparation = Perfection
The ubiquitous French culinary phrase “mise en place” translates into “putting in place.” Before everyone engages in executing the nightly menu, chefs organize and arrange all ingredients required. Everything must have its place.
Cooking is the art of layering ingredients accurately and timely through a series of techniques and proficiencies. In the midst of production, there’s little time to ‘prepare.’ Hence, why preparation takes precedence above all else. Such organization allows plates to be artfully constructed, both timely and systematically.
If you want something executed to perfection, preparation is necessary. Whether you have a simple or complex project, preparing can reduce unwanted stress. Organize and arrange before you dive head-first. When things heat up, you’ll have the required ‘ingredients’ at your disposal. As they say, it will be “smooth sailing.”
2. Clear & Concise Communication
As it heats up in the kitchen, everyone moves with a quickness, and some are carrying hot objects or sharp knives, which can easily create hazardous conditions.
Timing, both in movement and cooking, is an important element for well-executed meals. A single minute too soon, or late, can cause illness or frustration from patrons.
In these moments, clear and concise communication becomes mission critical. When a chef asks a question, it’s for a purpose. You typically only need to answer “yes chef” or “no chef.” Since chefs are making lightning fast decisions, backstories need not apply. For instances where a simple “yes” or “no” won’t suffice, keep it concise. There’s no time for verbal gymnastics or you’ll bottleneck production.
When you incorporate clear and concise communication in life, you enter a less complicated world by quickly getting to the root. Conversations stretch only to appropriate lengths, and people gather required information with enough speed to preserve momentum.
As you work through the day, think about reducing answers to a simple “yes” or “no.” When more complex answers are required, think about speaking with brevity to reduce bottlenecks.
3. Passion, Passion, Passion
Chefs are unique and thrive on their individuality. They have their secret recipes and techniques to separate themselves from their peers. However, there’s one commonality between them all: passion — dashes, sprinkles, cups, and canisters full of passion.
Chefs are passionate about their craft, take pride in their work, and they pour themselves into every dish or dessert. Since their work reflects their abilities, they work meticulously, in search of culinary perfection.
It’s unfortunate when people work half-heartedly in life. They do enough to get by, only to pass time and embrace the weekend. Why? Because they lack passion (or purpose for that matter).
Quite honestly, this lesson could be the most profound. When harnessed, this lesson can alter your reality. Using chefs as examples, find and incorporate passion in your life. Use it to pursue excellence. When your work feeds your soul, it commands the best version of yourself, and you’re more likely to achieve excellence.
4. Adjusting with Addition & Attrition
If you’ve watched a chef work in the kitchen, you’ve witnessed them taste-testing throughout the cooking process. At any given point, their palate may detect a flavor imbalance, thereby requiring ingredients to be added or subtracted. It’s part of the process. They’re quickly making adjustments with a simple mathematical formula.
Plenty of life’s experiences require adjustments. Though in moments when adversity strikes and we get knocked off kilter or paralyzed by fear, all that’s required is a simple mathematical formula and willingness to adjust. You can add or subtract something to regain your balance. It’s just that easy. I promise.
Now, a precursor to this lesson is eliminating the ideology that things will be perfect. Once you absolve this way of thinking, you are equipped for adjusting along the way. As a bonus, if you carved out prep time in the beginning, you’ll likely have everything at hand for your finished product.
5. Recipes = Reliable Results
Recipes are a staple in the culinary industry. The value of a recipe is the consistent product each and every time. Whether the meal is produced for the tenth, or hundredth time, the beauty is it tastes identical.
In life, we all strive for consistency, whether it be personally or professionally; however, we fall short of possessing and following ‘recipes’ which allow for consistent results continuously. We often ‘wing it’ with some imaginary expectation of textbook results.
When you desire consistent results, find a recipe. It doesn’t require your authorship either. You can easily find someone who embarked on a similar journey or someone who created a system for the process. When you find these recipes, compile them in your ‘cookbook,’ and keep them handy to use each and every time.
In closing, I’ll keep it simple. Find a chef today and give them a hug (or kiss) to thank them because they add so much flavor to our lives!
Featured photo credit: Courtesy of Pixabay via pixabay.com
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Desktops vs. Laptops: Does Using a Desktop Still Have Benefits?
Desktop sales have been plummeting, and some experts predict that we will eventually replace PCs altogether with smartphones and tablets. However, it is important to consider your current computer needs before you definitely decide to purchase a laptop instead of a desktop. This is due to the fact that in some cases, desktops still rule.
1. Price Comparison
Laptop prices have been continuously falling throughout the past several years, and it is now possible to get one for less than $200. However, most experts agree that it costs at least $399 to get a laptop with any real power, and the price can shoot up dramatically when you add on more memory, a faster processor and a better graphics card. Desktops are usually the better deal when you compare power and other specs, especially if you already have a monitor. It is important to note, though, that specialty desktops can still cost more than $1,000.
2. Power Needs for Special Functions
One of the biggest perks associated with purchasing a desktop computer is that they typically offer more power for a lower price. This becomes particularly noteworthy for people who will be using their computer for photo editing, gaming and video editing. Additionally, laptop screens are getting progressively smaller, and this may not suit your needs if you will be utilizing your computer for special functions. After all, video games are more immersive on a larger screen.
3. Portability Issues
It is undeniable that laptops and even tablets are far and away the best choice for people who require easy portability. Some people will link their desktop to a device with better portability so that they can access their files from anywhere, but this still requires an investment into at least two devices instead of just one. Therefore, if you need to be able to quickly and easily take your computer with you wherever you go, it will be best to purchase a laptop.
4. Component Variations
Laptop manufacturers are constantly looking for new ways to make their products lighter, more efficient and less expensive, but this comes with some pros and cons for consumers. For example, many of the newest laptop models do not come equipped with components that were previously standard such as a DVD drives. You can hook up an external drive, but this reduces your portability.
According to industry expert and Marketing Director Michael Bi of Shopping Express, this is creating a consumer divide:
“Although younger users are eagerly adopting a streaming and cloud storage approach, there are many consumers who still wish to use their physical DVD and CD-Rs. As a result, desktops have actually seen a slight resurgence during the past two years, and sales will most likely continue to grow.”
5. Out of Box Usage
If you want to be able to pull your new computer out of the box and get started almost instantly, then a laptop is definitely the right choice. You will still need to go through some basic setup steps, but laptops have a large out of box usage advantage because you do not need to hook up multiple components.
6. Keyboard Comparisons
Desktops naturally come with a better keyboard because they are larger and offer more room for nice extra features such as the side numeric keypad. This is very useful for people who frequently type numbers because it is more intuitive than the top numeric design. Of course, you do have the option of purchasing a separate keyboard or even just a side numeric keypad that can be hooked into your laptop. As with any other external add-on, these extras will reduce portability.
7. Upgrading Options
Almost every component within a desktop can be removed and upgraded with ease. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for laptops. Instead, laptop owners usually only have the option to upgrade their hard drive and memory. This can reduce the useful life of your laptop, which is something you should carefully consider if you need to get more than two to three years out of your purchase. On the other hand, if you invest in a laptop that has a fast processor and every other component you currently need, it is possible to receive a decent level of performance for several years.
Ultimately, the decision between a desktop and laptop computer should be based upon your most pressing needs. If portability trumps all, a laptop will be the wisest choice. However, if you desire power, a DVD drive or a large screen for the best possible price, you may need to invest in a desktop instead. Either way, make sure that you take proper care of your computer to make sure that you get the most out of your purchase.
Featured photo credit: Image Catalog Public Domain via flic.kr
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Interior Design 2016: Find About Fresh New Trends
In order to stay in a good mood and to be productive, we need to change our environment from time to time. If you haven’t changed your home style in a while, this could be the best time to do it, because the latest trends of 2016 are simply to die for. The combination of different styles, mixture of materials and cozy rooms are a new trend, so let’s see the must-haves for every room in your house.
1. Kitchen: it’s all about workhorse islands.
At one point it was popular to have bars in the kitchen, and almost every home had one. However, new bars are workhorse islands. They require a spacious kitchen, or one that is a bit bigger, so it isn’t an obstacle to move around your kitchen and cook. As they are supposed to make cooking easier by providing enough space to prepare ingredients, they are a necessity for big families.
The mixture of raw materials, tiles of warm colors and wooden French country workhorse islands with concrete counter tops will make you spend the whole day just sitting in your kitchen. Ditch boring grey colors, especially if your kitchen is open to the dining room. You want to make people feel comfortable, and not like they are in an office.
2. Dining room: formal dining rooms are in again.
Dining rooms are usually used for weekend lunches and dinners, holidays and reunions. As we lead busy lives and rarely have time to eat with our family during work days, weekends are time to bond and find out what’s been happening during the week.
So, create the dining room that will reflect your family’s taste, but give it a formal touch, as you want to provide your family with the best atmosphere during holidays. Moreover, if you are hosting formal cocktail parties, then make sure people don’t feel overdressed at your home.
Formal dining rooms are thankfully again in, so don’t turn your dining room into an office, as it was a trend until recently. Just add some vintage chairs and table, and don’t forget to let some light in your dining room.
3. Living room: tech-free and cozy
Living rooms are the place where you can spend some quality time with your family and friends. However, with different tech trends came PS4, Xbox One, huge TVs, sound systems and other things that only isolate you from the people you love.
It’s perfect to watch some film on a quality TV screen with your friends or family, or play a multiplayer game on PS4 or Xbox One, but as they are pretty addictive, we forget to talk to each other even when we are in the room together. Because of that, the new trend of tech free and cozy living rooms, where we can unplug and kick back, is something we have all been waiting for.
Rest after a busy day spent in front of your computer, and enjoy your silent and comfy living room. After some time spent in a tech-free living room, you’ll notice how you actually bond with your family, so don’t forget to stop scrolling your news feed and leave your phone alone in this new living room.
4. Bedroom: headboards
When we were teenagers, we wanted to have trendy and colorful headboards, and they were usually full of different pictures and quotes. But, they are trendy again, and any style can be upgraded with this simple addition.
If you like simple bedrooms, without many items and colors, headboard can make your bedroom cozier and more comfortable. Let’s say, for example your bedroom is white with some wooden wardrobe and some flowers. If you add wooden headboard, it will take the style of your bedroom to a whole new level.
If you are creative and want to save some money, there are many DIY headboard ideas to choose from. Look for different headboards, and find the right one for you or just search for an idea, so you could make it by yourself.
5. Bathroom: statement mirror
No more boring bathrooms and no more medicine cabinets that take up too much space. We are all happy to know that statement mirrors are a new trend, as this means a variety of mirrors in different styles, shapes and colors. If you like wooden materials, then make sure you take a look at wood-framed statement mirrors.
On the other hand, if you would like to add some vintage touch to your bathroom, then look for vintage statement mirrors with ornate gems. There are many beauties, which will make your bathroom look stylish and beautiful. Just remember that the bathroom should be a place of relaxation, where all of your worries disappear, so don’t use anything with aggressive colors.
These great interior design trends of 2016 have brought back items and styles that promise to bring us closer with our family and allow us to relax. Owing to the great comeback of formal dining rooms and cozy furniture, we are provided with a lot of different items to choose from and different ideas to upgrade our homes. I hope you have a great time coming up with remodeling ideas based n these guidelines.
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Freestanding Wood Fireplace for Your Home and Office: A Mix of Tradition with a Modern Touch
A fireplace is the central attraction of the house. Since most modern houses do not generally include a fireplace in the plan, the homeowners will usually have the option to include a freestanding wood fireplace for the living room or the drawing room. As these fireplaces are movable and can be installed anywhere in the house, they are growing in demand. They give the feel of a traditional countryside home to your domestic area, but at the same time are quite economical, as they can save you a lot on your monthly energy bills. If you are considering the addition of a freestanding wood fireplace in your home, here’s what you need to know.
The basic differences between freestanding wood fireplaces and traditional fireplaces
The freestanding wood fireplace has a chimney, a damper, and a firebox, like any traditional fireplace. But there are some extra features which increase the popularity of this type of fireplace over the traditional ones:
- The freestanding wood fireplace has doors that keep the heat in, in contrast to the traditional fireplace.
- This type of fireplace has a thermometer so that the user can regulate the temperature within the fireplace and can then adjust it when desired.
- Freestanding wood fireplaces have heat blowers that distribute the heat evenly throughout the room and keep the home warm on chilly days, in contrast to traditional fireplaces.
- They may sometimes come with a cooking top, unlike the traditional fireplace.
A more eco-friendly home décor option
When compared to more traditional fireplaces, freestanding wood fireplaces can reduce the total amount of dirt and smoke in the home.
- The freestanding wood fireplace emits less methane, black carbon, and carbon monoxide.
- They are available in a variety of styles and designs and allows better heat transmission.
- The freestanding wood fireplace is equipped with glass doors that prevent the sparks of the fire from causing injury or property damage.
- This type of fireplace reduces the risk of getting burnt, as it does not contain an open fire like a more traditional fireplace.
- The freestanding wood fireplace is budget friendly and inexpensive, unlike many traditional fireplaces.
Tips to select the right freestanding wood fireplace for your home
If you are in the market for a freestanding wood fireplace, the following tips may help you in making the right selection:
- Select a freestanding wood fireplace which can be installed easily, and buy one that has a higher heating capacity.
- Buy a freestanding wood fireplace that requires hassle-free maintenance. Although these types of fireplaces are cheaper when compared to the built-in models, the prices actually vary according to the design and performance.
- Select a freestanding wood fireplace that has the right appeal and look to give your home a real boost—it will act as a center piece in any area. If you are unsure of which look you’d prefer, look through different books and magazines on home design ideas. You can even mix and match different ideas to create a unique fireplace.
- Select a freestanding wood fireplace that provides the best warmth, circulation, and efficiency. Your fireplace should allow you to regulate the heat by easily adjusting the temperature. This can be done if the fireplace has an automatic starter instead of a pilot light. Finally, remember to always check the components of the fireplace before you pay for it.
All these tips can help the prospective shopper to look for the right freestanding wood fireplace that will provide maximum output and enhance the elegance of your home. The freestanding wood fireplace can be regarded as a perfect mix of tradition with modern touches and a stylish look.
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