Yearly Archives: 2017
Movies in Bed: Secret Life of Pets
Post by Mark T. Locker.
Have you ever wondered what exactly happens once pet owners leave for the day? Well, I can’t say for sure but The Secret Life of Pets which came out on DVD/Blu-Ray/Digital release in December has some theories. The story follows the lives of a number of pets in some Manhattan apartments. The main character, Max (voiced by Louis C.K.) is a doted-on single dog whose life is turned upside-down when his owner brings home a big shaggy shelter dog named Duke. Their personal dislike of each other takes a serious turn when the two of them get caught by animal control thanks to a neglectful dog-walker. When they are unexpectedly rescued by a rogue team of abandoned pets (a pig, a dog, a lizard and a surprisingly fierce bunny) they have to pretend to be abandoned as well. Meanwhile, the tiny fluffy dog named Gidget (Jenny Slate) who loves Max realizes something is amiss and pull together a band of pets to go and rescue them.
In a world of so many remakes, reboots, spinoffs and adaptations, it’s refreshing to find some unique content. My favorite parts were really at the beginning as we got to know the animals in the building, from the fat disinterested cat to the guinea pig who has been lost in the ducts for weeks trying to remember where his owner lives. It’s a fun and exciting story with enough humor to keep the grown-ups engaged and enough silliness and adventure for the little ones. Great movie to watch under a heaping pile of blankets as winter trudges on.
Flowers for All: Decorating with Floral in a Unisex Bedroom
Post by Tracy Kaler.
Not all florals are meant to be feminine. In fact, there are a plethora of floral patterns that work well in bedrooms for women, men, and couples. We’re thinking outside the box today and admiring these unisex bedrooms that feature floral prints.
It’s all about the details in this lovely Vancouver bedroom. Kerrisdale Design chose a muted tropical floral for the accent pillows, adding just the right dose of pattern. Notice the birds with flowers in the artwork above the bedside table. Although this room doesn’t scream masculine, it could very well belong to a couple.
This contemporary bedroom feels more masculine than feminine, and although subtle, the floral in the green accent pillows can’t be ignored. The space’s colors were drawn from the art above the bed.
A Boston bedroom boasts a clean, uncluttered design with solid teal and white, but introduces a bold floral in the throw pillows. This room could easily be a bachelor’s, as it doesn’t feel the least bit feminine.
A traditional farmhouse bedroom in Massachusetts uses a botanical toile fabric as well as decorative lamps and art with flowers. Even with so much floral in the room, this historical restoration takes on a masculine feel.
A transitional guest room by Suzanne Kasler Interiors uses a silver floral pattern throughout. This elegant sleep space proves that flowers not need be feminine, and can work wonderfully in a unisex bedroom.
Five Essential Yet Easy Sleep Resolutions for the New Year
Post by Tracy Kaler.
Another year has come and gone, so now’s your chance to start on the right foot and make 2017 the best year yet. Since sleep plays a significant role in well-being, beginning the new year with health and wellness goals is an excellent idea. Read on for five essential yet easy sleep resolutions you can make and keep in the new year.
Stick to a sleep schedule.
Going to bed at the same time every evening is one way to encourage a better night’s sleep. Your body might be craving more of a routine, and sticking to a schedule is one way of giving your body what it needs.
Leave tech out of the bedroom.
Leave television watching, cell phones, and iPads to your living room, family room, den, or kitchen. Keep the bedroom for rest. Need some distraction to fall asleep? Try reading a book, magazine, or anything in print.
Exercise more.
Exercising in the morning or early evening will tucker you out and prompt restful sleep. Besides better sleep habits, you might lose a few pounds in the process.
Make the bed every morning.
Making your bed is a surefire way to have a productive day, whether you’re working at the office or enjoying a day off. Get used to straightening the bed and bedroom daily.
Cut back on caffeine.
Caffeine after 12 pm has been proven to cause enough stimulation to interrupt sleep. Save the coffee drinking for the morning hours and opt for decaffeinated beverages after lunch and before bed.
Cheers to sweet dreams in 2017!