Win £100 Red Letter Days Voucher!
Posted by Deborah Read on Tuesday 7 February 2012 in Health and Beauty , Fashion & Travel
You only have a few days left to win a £100 Red Letter Days Voucher from VoucherSeeker so get your skates on!
Get Olympics Tickets
Posted by Deborah Read on Tuesday 7 February 2012 in Health and Beauty , Finance & Electronics
If you're struggling to get Olympics tickets, why not take a look at this competition from Vodafone:
The Benefits Of Growing Your Own
Posted by Deborah Read on Monday 6 February 2012 in Home and Garden
In a world where everyone wants convenience- whether that’s quick and easy meals to using their mobile phone to surf the net, why are people deciding to grow their own vegetables? Why go to all that effort when you can buy veggies at the local supermarket?
Stay Healthy With Supplements?
Posted by Deborah Read on Monday 6 February 2012 in Health and Beauty
Are you a supplement taker? Ask anyone in your office who takes supplements and you’ll be inundated with what people take and why. Whatever the reason, a third of people in the UK take supplements, with the industry worth £13.5 billion.
DIY Dos and Don'ts
Posted by Deborah Read on Monday 6 February 2012 in Home and Garden
So you’ve decided to do some DIY around the house. That’s not surprising as people are opting to do up their homes instead of buying new ones. You know what you want to do but where to start? Here are some DIY dos and don’ts to ensure that you’re DIY goes without too many hitches.
Staying Trim Without The Gym
Posted by Deborah Read on Monday 6 February 2012 in Health and Beauty
We’ve all paid for gym memberships that we’ve then not used and felt guilty for not going. Here are some tips for getting into shape without having to pay excessive gym costs.
Tips For Travelling On a Budget
Posted by Deborah Read on Friday 3 February 2012 in Travel
We all want to travel and visit exotic locations, broaden our horizons and experience something new. However, travelling can cost a lot of money and for people on a budget it can’t always be easy. Here are some of our top tips for travelling on a budget.
Worst Valentines Gifts
Posted by Deborah Read on Friday 3 February 2012 in Posts
Ahh Valentine’s day is quickly approaching and people everywhere look high and low to find the best gifts for their loved ones. But there are some people who get this wrong, massively, massively wrong. In this blog I discuss the worst gifts for men and women.
Top 10 Fashion Statements
Posted by Deborah Read on Friday 3 February 2012 in Fashion
Great clothing can make you look and feel great and some dresses have launched whole careers. Here, we discuss the best and worst fashion statements. Some you’ll love, others will be hoffically cringe worthy!
Top 10 Gadgets We Didn't Know We Needed
Posted by Deborah Read on Friday 3 February 2012 in Electronics
How the world has changed since I was a whipper snapper! There are some technologies that you can’t remember what you did without them. We’ve created a countdown of our favourite technologies we can’t live without.
Array
(
[214058] => ContextNode Object
(
[_cache] => Array
(
)
[instance_id] => 214058
[instance_db] => client_1150
[instance_title] => Win £100 Red Letter Days Voucher!
[instance_token] => win-100-red-letter-days-voucher-
[instance_parent_id] => 210534
[instance_left_id] => 4
[instance_right_id] => 5
[instance_removed] =>
[instance_priority] => -689
[state_id] => 1
[instance_created] => 07/02/12 15:13
[forced] =>
[instance_modified] => 07/02/12 15:17
[instance_type] => 74:Document
[instance_owner] => 2569524
[instance_languages] => en
[instance_properties] => Array
(
[instance_id] => 214058
[instance_created] => 2012-02-07 15:17:13.103919
[instance_removed] =>
[instance_language] => en
[showrelatedvideos] => f
[meta_expires] =>
[meta_cachecontrol] =>
[meta_title] =>
[meta_description] =>
[meta_keywords] =>
[meta_copyright] =>
[meta_robots] =>
[videoid] =>
[current_images] =>
[meta_googlebot] => f
[meta_refresh] =>
[meta_author] =>
[title] => Win £100 Red Letter Days Voucher!
[blog_contributor] => 211096:Deborah Read
[blog_category] => 210540:Health and Beauty|210535:Fashion|210537:Travel
[summary] => <p>You only have a few days left to win a £100 Red Letter Days Voucher from VoucherSeeker so get your skates on!</p>
[image] => competwition.jpg
[body] => <p>If you're stuck on what to get your loved one for Valentines Day, then enter this competition to win £100 Red Letter Days vouchers! This competition could see you having relaxing spa treatment for two, a romantic meal or even go towards a balloon ride for two. All you have to do is <a target="_blank" href="http://competwition.com/voucherseeker_red" title="Red Letter Days Competition">enter</a>!</p>
[template] => /templates/blog-document.html
[blog_publishing_date] => 2012-02-07 15:14:00
)
[instance_children] =>
[instance_gchildren] =>
[instance_parent] =>
[instance_fieldset] =>
[instance_base_type] =>
[uid] => 1520544470
[absolute_url] => /blog/posts/win-100-red-letter-days-voucher-/index
[path] => /blog/posts/win-100-red-letter-days-voucher-
[base_type] => Document
[type_id] => 74
[autonamed] =>
[nodeInPath] =>
[title_or_id] => Win £100 Red Letter Days Voucher!
[language] => en
)
[214056] => ContextNode Object
(
[_cache] => Array
(
)
[instance_id] => 214056
[instance_db] => client_1150
[instance_title] => Get Olympics Tickets
[instance_token] => get-olympics-tickets
[instance_parent_id] => 210534
[instance_left_id] => 4
[instance_right_id] => 5
[instance_removed] =>
[instance_priority] => -687
[state_id] => 1
[instance_created] => 07/02/12 15:05
[forced] =>
[instance_modified] => 08/02/12 10:49
[instance_type] => 74:Document
[instance_owner] => 2569524
[instance_languages] => en
[instance_properties] => Array
(
[instance_id] => 214056
[instance_created] => 2012-02-08 10:49:44.286162
[instance_removed] =>
[instance_language] => en
[showrelatedvideos] => f
[meta_expires] =>
[meta_cachecontrol] =>
[meta_title] =>
[meta_description] =>
[meta_keywords] =>
[meta_copyright] =>
[meta_robots] =>
[videoid] =>
[current_images] =>
[meta_googlebot] => f
[meta_refresh] =>
[meta_author] =>
[title] => Get Olympics Tickets
[blog_contributor] => 211096:Deborah Read
[blog_category] => 210540:Health and Beauty|210539:Finance|210536:Electronics
[summary] => If you're struggling to get Olympics tickets, why not take a look at this competition from Vodafone:
[image] => vodafone_olympics.jpg
[body] => <p>If you're struggling to get Olympics tickets, why not take a look at this <a target="_blank" href="http://www.awin1.com/awclick.php?mid=1257&id=57984&clickref=VS-blog-olympics&p=http://www.vodafone.co.uk/brands/samsung/olympics/index.htm?icmp=int-ue-oly-smg-brnd1" title="Vodafone Olympics Tickets">competition </a>from Vodafone:</p>
<p>Buy any phone from the Samsung Galaxy range (ie Samsung GALAXY SII, Samsung GALAXY Ace, GALAXY Nexus, GALAXY Y) and you'll get entered into a competition to win 2 Olympic tickets for one of the following:</p>
<p>• Diving - Men’s 10m Platform Final<br />• Athletics - Men’s 100m Final<br />• Rowing - Men’s Four Final<br />• Gymnastics - Artistic - Men’s & Women’s Finals<br />• Football - Men’s final<br />• Women's Beach Volleyball<br />• Equestrian - Jumping - Jumping Individual Final<br />• Cycling - Track - Women’s Team Pursuit Finals<br />• Basketball - Men’s Final<br />• Swimming - Women’s 100m Freestyle Final</p>
<p>The draw will be taking place 31/03/12 and to enter, recipients just need to follow the link sent to their Samsung Galaxy phone. You should know by April if you've won- how exciting is that?!!</p>
[template] => /templates/blog-document.html
[blog_publishing_date] => 2012-02-07 15:05:00
)
[instance_children] =>
[instance_gchildren] =>
[instance_parent] =>
[instance_fieldset] =>
[instance_base_type] =>
[uid] => 1839550207
[absolute_url] => /blog/posts/get-olympics-tickets/index
[path] => /blog/posts/get-olympics-tickets
[base_type] => Document
[type_id] => 74
[autonamed] =>
[nodeInPath] =>
[title_or_id] => Get Olympics Tickets
[language] => en
)
[213962] => ContextNode Object
(
[_cache] => Array
(
)
[instance_id] => 213962
[instance_db] => client_1150
[instance_title] => The Benefits Of Growing Your Own
[instance_token] => growing-your-own
[instance_parent_id] => 210534
[instance_left_id] => 4
[instance_right_id] => 5
[instance_removed] =>
[instance_priority] => -680
[state_id] => 1
[instance_created] => 06/02/12 15:01
[forced] =>
[instance_modified] => 06/02/12 15:03
[instance_type] => 74:Document
[instance_owner] => 2569524
[instance_languages] => en
[instance_properties] => Array
(
[instance_id] => 213962
[instance_created] => 2012-02-06 15:03:58.385131
[instance_removed] =>
[instance_language] => en
[showrelatedvideos] => f
[meta_expires] =>
[meta_cachecontrol] =>
[meta_title] =>
[meta_description] =>
[meta_keywords] =>
[meta_copyright] =>
[meta_robots] =>
[videoid] =>
[current_images] =>
[meta_googlebot] => f
[meta_refresh] =>
[meta_author] =>
[title] => The Benefits Of Growing Your Own
[blog_contributor] => 211096:Deborah Read
[blog_category] => 210538:Home and Garden
[summary] => In a world where everyone wants convenience- whether that’s quick and easy meals to using their mobile phone to surf the net, why are people deciding to grow their own vegetables? Why go to all that effort when you can buy veggies at the local supermarket?
[image] => grow_your_own.jpg
[body] => <p style="text-align: justify;">In a world where everyone wants convenience- whether that’s quick and easy meals to using their mobile phone to surf the net, why are people deciding to grow their own vegetables? Why go to all that effort when you can buy veggies at the local supermarket?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The first hurdle people face when thinking of growing vegetables is that it’s going to be complicated and hard. It isn’t. Its more effort than doing your weekly shop, but its also much more rewarding. Start with something simple and common such as the carrot. All you need is soil, a seed and water and they’ll do the rest of the hard work. Keep an eye out for slugs and snails and make sure you water it enough and hey presto, Carrots are produced.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Growing your own vegetables is actually cheaper in the long run. You have the initial costs of buying equipment and seeds, but after that all you have to do is buy a pack of seeds every once in a while. Bought vegetables have higher prices as the farmer has to be paid, the produce has to be prepared and then transported to the supermarket, whilst they also need to make a profit on it.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Another positive for growing your own vegetables is your health. Not only does growing vegetables make you more physically fit as you’re weeding, planting and generally moving around outside but growing vegetables is also great for your mental health. You’re looking after something, helping it to grow and there’s something remarkably enjoyable about watching something that you have planted develop.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">An obstacle to growing your own vegetables is space. Many people may not have a garden where they can grow vegetables and waiting lists for allotments are through the roof! However, growing vegetables needs less space than you think, with some people growing them in windowsill tubs and hanging baskets, whilst some stores offer potato or tomato pouches, which include seeds, containers and soil which are just hung up outside the home.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Children get a real boost from growing their own vegetables. They learn where their vegetables and food comes from and how to grow it. It’s great for children who are fussier with what they eat as they are more inclined to eat something that they have helped to grow and prepare. Plus, you can let them decide what to plant and grow next, giving them even more incentive to eat it.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Many people will tell new growers that the vegetables they produced are actually a lot tastier than ones from the supermarket. There are a lot of variables which will determine how vegetables taste, from the soil grown in to the amounts of sunlight. No matter what your conditions though, your vegetables will have much more taste than supermarket bought ones, so you’ll never go back!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Growing your own vegetables also ensures that you’re more environmentally friendly. By growing your own vegetables you’re not using pesticides, you’re not transporting your vegetables to other countries or to the other end of the country. You’re also not using, or using less pesticides so your veggies are better for you too. Plus, there’s less waste. Anything you’re not using you’re putting onto your compost heap or your giving away to others.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Finally, one of the best things about growing vegetables are you’re always assured that you’re eating the freshest produce around.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Hopefully these points have convinced you that growing your own vegetables is one of the most wholesome experiences you can have, it being good for your body, mind and health, as well as being fun and educational for the family.</p>
[template] => /templates/blog-document.html
[blog_publishing_date] => 2012-02-06 15:01:00
)
[instance_children] =>
[instance_gchildren] =>
[instance_parent] =>
[instance_fieldset] =>
[instance_base_type] =>
[uid] => 956634659
[absolute_url] => /blog/posts/growing-your-own/index
[path] => /blog/posts/growing-your-own
[base_type] => Document
[type_id] => 74
[autonamed] =>
[nodeInPath] =>
[title_or_id] => The Benefits Of Growing Your Own
[language] => en
)
[213961] => ContextNode Object
(
[_cache] => Array
(
)
[instance_id] => 213961
[instance_db] => client_1150
[instance_title] => Stay Healthy With Supplements?
[instance_token] => stay-healthy-with-supplements-
[instance_parent_id] => 210534
[instance_left_id] => 4
[instance_right_id] => 5
[instance_removed] =>
[instance_priority] => -679
[state_id] => 1
[instance_created] => 06/02/12 14:58
[forced] =>
[instance_modified] => 06/02/12 15:00
[instance_type] => 74:Document
[instance_owner] => 2569524
[instance_languages] => en
[instance_properties] => Array
(
[instance_id] => 213961
[instance_created] => 2012-02-06 15:00:34.961046
[instance_removed] =>
[instance_language] => en
[showrelatedvideos] => f
[meta_expires] =>
[meta_cachecontrol] =>
[meta_title] =>
[meta_description] =>
[meta_keywords] =>
[meta_copyright] =>
[meta_robots] =>
[videoid] =>
[current_images] =>
[meta_googlebot] => f
[meta_refresh] =>
[meta_author] =>
[title] => Stay Healthy With Supplements?
[blog_contributor] => 211096:Deborah Read
[blog_category] => 210540:Health and Beauty
[summary] => Are you a supplement taker? Ask anyone in your office who takes supplements and you’ll be inundated with what people take and why. Whatever the reason, a third of people in the UK take supplements, with the industry worth £13.5 billion.
[image] => supplements.jpg
[body] => <p style="text-align: justify;">Are you a supplement taker? Ask anyone in your office who takes supplements and you’ll be inundated with what people take and why. Some in our office take Vitamin C to stay healthy, others take pollen supplements for their Hayfever. Whatever the reason, a third of people in the UK take supplements, with the industry worth £13.5 billion.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">What is the appeal of supplements? Most people like the fact that they can buy a product, which can be taken during the day and which has some impact upon their health. They don’t have to make big changes in their lives such as changing their diet or routines, they just take a tablet. But do supplements have a big impact on your health?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Firstly, it depends where you buy your supplements from. If you buy a product in a reputable store then the chances are that the supplement is regulated. Depending which category the product lies in, the supplement could be regulated under the Food Safety Laws as they are registered as a food stuff. Other supplements are regulated as medicines and therefore regulated by the MHRA.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">However, if you buy your supplements online, there’s a chance that they won’t be regulated and therefore you cannot be sure what the actual ingredients are. Some supplements may have ingredients which are not safe for human consumption, so always make sure you’re buying your supplements from a trusted source.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Finally, Herbal Supplements must be registered with a Traditional Herbal Registration. However, this regulation was introduced in 2011 and therefore there’s a seven year transitional period. This means that some consumers may be able to get hold of unregulated herbal supplements, which again could include some ingredients which may cause more harm than good.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The supplement most people in the UK buy is Vitamin C. Vitamin C is known to be good for the immune system, so many people take the vitamin in order to help with coughs or colds. However, research has found that taking Vitamin C does not stop you from catching a cold or getting ill, but it may cut the length of time you have your cold. A similar product to Vitamin C is Echinacea, which is also known to be good for the immune system. However, when tests were carried out regarding it’s health benefits in relation to colds, the results were inconclusive.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">It’s also worth doing your research whilst taking supplements, as some will cancel each other out or have negative side effects. Always seek advice from your doctor if you’re taking a number of supplements and see if they have better advice or a better course of action.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Certain demographics of the population are advised to take some supplements. For example, pregnant women are advised to take Vitamin D and Folic acid to prevent certain illnesses occurring during pregnancy and infancy. The over 65s and people with darker skin are recommended to take Vitamin D supplements whilst children aged between six months and 5 years are recommended to take Vitamin A, C and D. However, if you do not fit into those demographics, the chances are that there’s no need to take anything extra, unless you have been advised by your doctor to do so.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The fact is, if people eat a variety of foods, exercise often, get enough sleep and drink plenty of fluids, there is no need to supplement your diet with anything else. However, it’s easier to take a supplement than to change our lifestyles.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">This is true for weight loss supplements. £900 million is spent on over the counter weight loss supplements in Western Europe. However, there is little evidence that these work well, or offer a long term solution to weight loss. As well as this, many of the side effects of taking these supplements can be worse.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Supplements may be a great way to increase your health, if you’re in an ‘at risk’ group such as pregnant women, children and over 65s. However, by eating a varied diet, looking after yourself and exercising regularly, the truth is that you may be buying supplements and wasting your money on something that won’t give your body anything extra</p>
[template] => /templates/blog-document.html
[blog_publishing_date] => 2012-02-06 14:58:00
)
[instance_children] =>
[instance_gchildren] =>
[instance_parent] =>
[instance_fieldset] =>
[instance_base_type] =>
[uid] => 1109236061
[absolute_url] => /blog/posts/stay-healthy-with-supplements-/index
[path] => /blog/posts/stay-healthy-with-supplements-
[base_type] => Document
[type_id] => 74
[autonamed] =>
[nodeInPath] =>
[title_or_id] => Stay Healthy With Supplements?
[language] => en
)
[213960] => ContextNode Object
(
[_cache] => Array
(
)
[instance_id] => 213960
[instance_db] => client_1150
[instance_title] => DIY Dos and Don'ts
[instance_token] => diy-dos-and-don-ts
[instance_parent_id] => 210534
[instance_left_id] => 4
[instance_right_id] => 5
[instance_removed] =>
[instance_priority] => -678
[state_id] => 1
[instance_created] => 06/02/12 14:49
[forced] =>
[instance_modified] => 06/02/12 14:56
[instance_type] => 74:Document
[instance_owner] => 2569524
[instance_languages] => en
[instance_properties] => Array
(
[instance_id] => 213960
[instance_created] => 2012-02-06 14:56:38.08055
[instance_removed] =>
[instance_language] => en
[showrelatedvideos] => f
[meta_expires] =>
[meta_cachecontrol] =>
[meta_title] =>
[meta_description] =>
[meta_keywords] =>
[meta_copyright] =>
[meta_robots] =>
[videoid] =>
[current_images] =>
[meta_googlebot] => f
[meta_refresh] =>
[meta_author] =>
[title] => DIY Dos and Don'ts
[blog_contributor] => 211096:Deborah Read
[blog_category] => 210538:Home and Garden
[summary] => So you’ve decided to do some DIY around the house. That’s not surprising as people are opting to do up their homes instead of buying new ones. You know what you want to do but where to start? Here are some DIY dos and don’ts to ensure that you’re DIY goes without too many hitches.
[image] => diy.jpg
[body] => <p>So you’ve decided to do some DIY around the house. That’s not surprising as people are opting to do up their homes instead of buying new ones. You know what you want to do but where to start? Here are some DIY dos and don’ts to ensure that you’re DIY goes without too many hitches.</p>
<h1>DIY Don’ts.</h1>
<p><strong>Don’t Wear Expensive Clothing</strong></p>
<p>It seems like good advice but many people still wear expensive clothing when doing any DIY. Make sure you wear an old t shirt and some jeans which you won’t worry about getting paint, dust or anything else on. Also make sure you’re clothing’s not too baggy as it might just get caught.</p>
<p><strong>Don’t Drink and DIY</strong></p>
<p>After a few bevvies you think you can take on the world. Unfortunately this is not true. Alcohol slows down your responses and clouds your judgement so it’s best to leave it until the morning (or afternoon) afterwards.</p>
<p><strong>Don’t Switch Off Power Tools</strong></p>
<p>If you’re having a break, or have paused for a moment, turn off your power tools to avoid a nasty accident. If your power tool isn’t working, switch it off before taking a closer inspection.</p>
<p><strong>Stay Away From Gas and Electricity</strong></p>
<p>Don’t think you can fix everything. If there’s a problem with your gas or electricity, contact outside help before you make a costly mistake. It may even save you money in the long run.</p>
<p><strong>Don’t Over Reach On Ladders</strong></p>
<p>Ladders are very easy to have an accident on. If you’re up a ladder and can’t reach something, move the ladder. This will avoid you causing an accident or having a nasty fall.</p>
<p> </p>
<h1>DIY Dos</h1>
<p><strong>Use The Right Tools</strong></p>
<p>Use the right tools for the job, if this means investing in the right tools, do it and don’t improvise.</p>
<p><strong>Plan Ahead</strong></p>
<p>Before going in all guns a blazing, make sure you know exactly what you want to do, how you’re going to do it, what tools you’ll need, how much it will cost and how long it will take you. At least this way you have a game plan and aren’t just making it up. You’ll also have all the tools handy for what you need to do without a last minute trip to B&Q.</p>
<p><strong>Double Check Measurements</strong></p>
<p>When measuring for carpets, furniture or wallpaper, check and double check measurements. There’s nothing worse than getting a carpet which is too short or not enough wall paper. If in doubt, round your numbers up.</p>
<p><strong>Admit Defeat</strong></p>
<p>Know when a job is too big for you and you’ll need professional help. Don’t think that by adding duct tape your DIY improvement will work or last.</p>
<p><strong>Be Realistic</strong></p>
<p>Be realistic about budgets and how long work will take. This will avoid disappointment, hold ups and will help keep you in budget.</p>
<p><strong>Read Instructions</strong></p>
<p>Instructions are there for a reason so read them and follow them.</p>
<p><strong>Be Safe</strong></p>
<p>If at any point you feel you’re putting yourself or others in danger, then stop and get professional help.<br /><br /><a target="_blank" href="http://www.awin1.com/awclick.php?mid=483&id=57984&clickref=VS-diy-dos-and-donts&p=http://www.diy.com/content/knowledge/how_to/index/index.jsp" title="B&Q">B&Q</a> have some great tips on how to do tasks around the home, so check them out.</p>
[template] => /templates/blog-document.html
[blog_publishing_date] => 2012-02-06 14:49:00
)
[instance_children] =>
[instance_gchildren] =>
[instance_parent] =>
[instance_fieldset] =>
[instance_base_type] =>
[uid] => 1656680391
[absolute_url] => /blog/posts/diy-dos-and-don-ts/index
[path] => /blog/posts/diy-dos-and-don-ts
[base_type] => Document
[type_id] => 74
[autonamed] =>
[nodeInPath] =>
[title_or_id] => DIY Dos and Don'ts
[language] => en
)
[213959] => ContextNode Object
(
[_cache] => Array
(
)
[instance_id] => 213959
[instance_db] => client_1150
[instance_title] => Staying Trim Without The Gym
[instance_token] => trim-without-the-gym
[instance_parent_id] => 210534
[instance_left_id] => 4
[instance_right_id] => 5
[instance_removed] =>
[instance_priority] => -677
[state_id] => 1
[instance_created] => 06/02/12 14:36
[forced] =>
[instance_modified] => 06/02/12 14:48
[instance_type] => 74:Document
[instance_owner] => 2569524
[instance_languages] => en
[instance_properties] => Array
(
[instance_id] => 213959
[instance_created] => 2012-02-06 14:48:04.497165
[instance_removed] =>
[instance_language] => en
[showrelatedvideos] => f
[meta_expires] =>
[meta_cachecontrol] =>
[meta_title] =>
[meta_description] =>
[meta_keywords] =>
[meta_copyright] =>
[meta_robots] =>
[videoid] =>
[current_images] =>
[meta_googlebot] => f
[meta_refresh] =>
[meta_author] =>
[title] => Staying Trim Without The Gym
[blog_contributor] => 211096:Deborah Read
[blog_category] => 210540:Health and Beauty
[summary] => We’ve all paid for gym memberships that we’ve then not used and felt guilty for not going. Here are some tips for getting into shape without having to pay excessive gym costs.
[image] => dance.jpg
[body] => <p style="text-align: justify;">We’ve all paid for gym memberships that we’ve then not used and felt guilty for not going. People spend on average between £800- £1,000 a year on gym memberships, which is a lot of money if you don’t go. Here are some tips for getting into shape without having to pay excessive gym costs.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Pay As You Go</strong><br />Some gyms have created a pay as you go scheme which works like a top up for your mobile phone. You ‘top up’ so much onto your membership and pay for the sessions you use. A gym which does this is <a target="_blank" href="http://www.awin1.com/awclick.php?mid=3422&id=57984&clickref=VS-Blog-trim-without-gym" title="PayasUgym">payasUgym</a>.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Buy Exercise Equipment</strong><br />If there’s one machine at the gym that you liked and you have the space to store it, buy it. If you look online you can usually get a good deal and go for the none branded products as these will work just as well. Items like a mini trampoline and treadmill are great for cardio exercise which improves overall fitness.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Fitness DVDs</strong><br />There’s so much choice but don’t just go for your favourite celeb here, do your research and find which ones give you a proper work out and help you get fit. Perhaps buy a couple so you can mix it up and do these a few times a week in the comfort of your own home.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Go For A Run</strong><br />Get your trainers on and go for a run around the block. To add some incentive, try running 5 or 10K for <a target="_blank" href="http://raceforlife.cancerresearchuk.org/index.html" title="Race For Life">Race For Life</a> or even the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.virginlondonmarathon.com/" title="virgin London Marathon">marathon</a>. If you enjoy it, join running clubs. You can also use the <a target="_blank" href="http://runkeeper.com/" title="RunKeeper">RunKeeper</a> pro app which keeps track of how long you’re running for.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Walking</strong><br />Go for a long walk on a Sunday, or try to walk to places you would usually drive to. This will improve your fitness and it’s also quite enjoyable. Get on the bus one stop later and off one stop earlier. This is an easy way to fit walking into your routine without taking on too much. Standing up on public transport also burns more calories.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Cycling</strong><br />Try cycling to work and back, or just cycle on a weekend. There are off road routes (<a href="http://www.cycle-route.com/">http://www.cycle-route.com/</a>) which make it more enjoyable and it’s really good for you.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Ice/Roller Skating</strong><br />These are really good exercise and help with balance. They’re also really fun to do, although you may get more bruises!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Go Dancing</strong><br />Get your dancing shoes on as dancing burns calories, whether it’s salsa dancing, ballet or street. It’s also a lot more fun than the gym, you meet new people and it’s cheaper too.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Play Football</strong><br />Running around a pitch for 90 minutes will do wonders for your health! Join a local team or get one together and play regularly. Places like <a target="_blank" href="http://www.goalsfootball.co.uk/" title="Goals">Goals</a> let you hire areas to play, so check it out.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Exercise With Friends</strong><br />Whatever exercise you decide to do, do it with friends. They will motivate you when you’re not feeling up to exercise and make it more fun.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Use Your House</strong><br />Exercising is really easy around the house. Using the stairs you can step up and down again a few times to burn calories. Items in your cupboards also make excellent items to exercise with. Instead of lifting weights, lift juice bottles, baked beans and even children for a work out. While waiting for food to cook, try doing squats or just sit ups and push ups.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Do Housework</strong><br />Believe it or not but housework burns calories. You can work out how many with this <a target="_blank" href="http://www.exrx.net/Calculators/Calories.html" title="Calorie Counter">calorie calculator</a>. Both men and women will feel the results and you create a spotless home too.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">If that isn’t enough, use the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.fatsecret.com/connected/android" title="Fat Secret">FatSecret</a> calorie counter which allows you to count the calories you’re eating, the nutritional value of products and it keeps a food diary for you. All to enable you to make healthier choices.</p>
[template] => /templates/blog-document.html
[blog_publishing_date] => 2012-02-06 14:36:00
)
[instance_children] =>
[instance_gchildren] =>
[instance_parent] =>
[instance_fieldset] =>
[instance_base_type] =>
[uid] => 1362163553
[absolute_url] => /blog/posts/trim-without-the-gym/index
[path] => /blog/posts/trim-without-the-gym
[base_type] => Document
[type_id] => 74
[autonamed] =>
[nodeInPath] =>
[title_or_id] => Staying Trim Without The Gym
[language] => en
)
[213608] => ContextNode Object
(
[_cache] => Array
(
)
[instance_id] => 213608
[instance_db] => client_1150
[instance_title] => Tips For Travelling On a Budget
[instance_token] => travelling-on-a-budget
[instance_parent_id] => 210534
[instance_left_id] => 4
[instance_right_id] => 5
[instance_removed] =>
[instance_priority] => -675
[state_id] => 1
[instance_created] => 03/02/12 11:10
[forced] =>
[instance_modified] => 03/02/12 14:40
[instance_type] => 74:Document
[instance_owner] => 2569524
[instance_languages] => en
[instance_properties] => Array
(
[instance_id] => 213608
[instance_created] => 2012-02-03 14:40:59.018176
[instance_removed] =>
[instance_language] => en
[showrelatedvideos] => f
[meta_expires] =>
[meta_cachecontrol] =>
[meta_title] =>
[meta_description] =>
[meta_keywords] =>
[meta_copyright] =>
[meta_robots] =>
[videoid] =>
[current_images] =>
[meta_googlebot] => f
[meta_refresh] =>
[meta_author] =>
[title] => Tips For Travelling On a Budget
[blog_contributor] => 211096:Deborah Read
[blog_category] => 210537:Travel
[summary] => We all want to travel and visit exotic locations, broaden our horizons and experience something new. However, travelling can cost a lot of money and for people on a budget it can’t always be easy. Here are some of our top tips for travelling on a budget.
[image] => airplane.jpg
[body] => <p style="text-align: justify;">We all want to travel and visit exotic locations, broaden our horizons and experience something new. However, travelling can cost a lot of money and for people on a budget it can’t always be easy. Here are some of our top tips for travelling on a budget.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Travel Off Season<br /></strong><br />Travel companies bump up their prices during the school holidays. There fore to save money, travel in times when its quiet- ie when children are in school. you can still get your sun sea and sand, as many European holiday seasons don’t end until September and October, whilst starting as early as May. It also means the pool is quieter and you get more of the hotel to yourself.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Travel in Non Peak Times</strong><br /><br />For families it’s not really an option to travel at times when their children are at school. However, with careful planning and preparation, families can still travel without spending too much. Get the dates when your children break up from school. Book your flights for the day your children break up so that as soon as they’re out of the school gates, you’re away. It means planning everything and packing a few nights before, but the flights will still be cheaper.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Shop Around<br /></strong><br />Before booking flights and hotels shop around online. You can compare a number of different holiday packages online and could even use this information to haggle a better deal in the travel agents. Useful sites include <a target="_blank" href="http://www.expedia.co.uk/" title="Expedia">Expedia </a>and <a target="_blank" href="http://www.travelsupermarket.com/c/cheap-flights/" title="TravelSuperMarket">TravelSupermarket</a>.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Last Minute Travel<br /></strong><br />Book your time off work but then leave it to the last minute to book your travel. Travel agents need to fill flights and holiday places to make money so you could get a great holiday deal at a heavily discounted price. Be open to new ideas and flexible about where you travel and you never know, you could just get a bargain! Check out <a target="_blank" href="http://www.lastminute.com/" title="LastMinute">Lastminute</a> and <a target="_blank" href="http://www.cheapflights.co.uk/travel-tips/last-minute-flights/" title="CheapFlights">CheapFlights</a>.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Stay In Hostels<br /></strong><br />Some hostels can be as nice as hotels or are attached to hotels, so shop around, do some research and don’t be put off staying in hostels. Look at them online to see what their rooms are like and even read reviews to see other people’s experiences.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Currency<br /></strong><br />Research currency and shop around for the best deals. Don’t wait until you get to the airport to get your currency as these can be more expensive. Take a mixture of travellers cheques and cash in order to get the best deals and protect yourself.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Use Public Transport<br /></strong><br />Don’t be afraid to use the public transport. Buy maps of the underground and plan where you want to go and how to get there. Many cities will have weekly passes which are cheap and easy to get hold of. Other ways of exploring cities is by walking around. Buy a map and plan your routes. You could even stumble upon something special.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Holiday Home Rental<br /></strong><br />Rent a home to stay in abroad, you get a more grass roots feel to your trip and a more authentic experience. Some firms will want you to advertise your property for rent too and could be an extra way to earn some money. Some useful sites include <a target="_blank" href="http://www.holiday-rentals.co.uk/" title="Holiday-Rentals">Holiday-Rentals</a> and <a target="_blank" href="http://www.holidaylettings.co.uk/england/" title="HolidayLettings">HolidayLettings</a>.<br /><strong><br />Self Cater<br /></strong><br />Going self catering on a holiday can save you money as you’re buying food from the local supermarket. However, it does mean that you’ll have to plan your meals and potentially find the bargains in a foreign environment.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>The road less travelled<br /></strong><br />Try visiting areas which are not as popular with tourists as these will be areas which are less expensive.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Hopefully you’ll find some of these tips useful and that they help you to travel for less.</p>
[template] => /templates/blog-document.html
[blog_publishing_date] => 2012-02-03 11:10:00
)
[instance_children] =>
[instance_gchildren] =>
[instance_parent] =>
[instance_fieldset] =>
[instance_base_type] =>
[uid] => 176662258
[absolute_url] => /blog/posts/travelling-on-a-budget/index
[path] => /blog/posts/travelling-on-a-budget
[base_type] => Document
[type_id] => 74
[autonamed] =>
[nodeInPath] =>
[title_or_id] => Tips For Travelling On a Budget
[language] => en
)
[213607] => ContextNode Object
(
[_cache] => Array
(
)
[instance_id] => 213607
[instance_db] => client_1150
[instance_title] => Worst Valentines Gifts
[instance_token] => worst-valentines-gifts
[instance_parent_id] => 210534
[instance_left_id] => 4
[instance_right_id] => 5
[instance_removed] =>
[instance_priority] => -674
[state_id] => 1
[instance_created] => 03/02/12 11:00
[forced] =>
[instance_modified] => 03/02/12 14:43
[instance_type] => 74:Document
[instance_owner] => 2569524
[instance_languages] => en
[instance_properties] => Array
(
[instance_id] => 213607
[instance_created] => 2012-02-03 14:43:05.256484
[instance_removed] =>
[instance_language] => en
[showrelatedvideos] => f
[meta_expires] =>
[meta_cachecontrol] =>
[meta_title] =>
[meta_description] =>
[meta_keywords] =>
[meta_copyright] =>
[meta_robots] =>
[videoid] =>
[current_images] =>
[meta_googlebot] => f
[meta_refresh] =>
[meta_author] =>
[title] => Worst Valentines Gifts
[blog_contributor] => 211096:Deborah Read
[blog_category] => 210534:Posts
[summary] => Ahh Valentine’s day is quickly approaching and people everywhere look high and low to find the best gifts for their loved ones. But there are some people who get this wrong, massively, massively wrong. In this blog I discuss the worst gifts for men and women.
[image] => valentine.jpg
[body] => <p style="text-align: justify;">Ahh Valentine’s day is quickly approaching and people everywhere look high and low to find the best gifts for their loved ones. But there are some people who get this wrong, massively, massively wrong. In this blog I discuss the worst gifts for men and women.</p>
<h1 style="text-align: justify;">Top 5 Worst Gifts For Men</h1>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Cuddley Toy<br /></strong><br />No matter how cute it is, how cuddley it is or how much it comes to represent your relationship, a cuddley toy for a bloke on Valentines Day is an instant no no and sends him just one message. Bunny boiler.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Chic Flick<br /></strong><br />That chick flick you dragged him to on one of your first dates that he told you he loved as the characters were so realistic and he could relate to them so well… he lied. He never wants to even mention this film again, let alone get it for Valentines.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Lingerie, PJs and Socks<br /></strong><br />All no nos. What item of mens lingerie can be sexy as well as routine lingerie wear? He may look great in his boxers, doesn’t mean he wants them for Valentines. Have you ever seen ANY mens PJ set that are sexy? So rule it out, even if it’s thermal and will keep him warm at night, that’s what you’re there for. And socks? Is Valentines Christmas and are you his Gran? Thought not. He doesn’t even want the comical ones with his favourite characters on, or the patronising days of the week ones. Avoid socks.And lingerie. And PJs.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>A Picture Of You<br /></strong><br />Of course he loves you, he loves you loads, you’re the apple of his eye, the centre of his universe. But does he want your face staring at him on his desk from a heart shaped frame whilst he’s working hard to impress his boss and colleagues? Probably not. Leave him to decide what picture of whom he wants, and what frame he wants to put it in.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Matching Items<br /></strong><br />Under no circumstances would your bloke want to wear matching items such as snuggies, jumpers or anything else. It’s not cute, it’s not funny and it reeks of bunny boiler. Sorry.</p>
<h1 style="text-align: justify;"><br />Top 5 Worst Gifts For Women</h1>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Self Help Books<br /></strong><br />Women know they can be neurotic, they analyse things constantly. You buying them a book about their flaws and faults just tells them that you’ve a) noticed their neurotic tendency and b) want them to work on it. It’s not romantic, does nothing for their self confidence and will probably get you dumped, or lead to uncomfortable conversations regarding why you thought the book would be relevant to them.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Something He Wanted<br /></strong><br />A complete cop out. When did she ask for Training Day on DVD? Or Call of Duty for her Xbox? This is a day to treat her and show her how much you love her (in monetary terms) so if you buy her those power tools you’ve been drooling over you’re telling her loudly exactly what you think, and it’s not good.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Jewellery He Gave His Ex<br /></strong><br />Are you kidding? If it’s been engraved ‘Dearest Michelle’ and she’s called Laura you’re in for a world of trouble. If you’ve got old jewellery lying around, send it to cash for gold, not your current beau.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Household Items<br /></strong><br />We’re talking ironing boards, hoovers and kitchen pans. All the clichéd products which suggest ‘womens work’ and give her the impression that you’re a cave man. The feminist movement in the home has been and gone, so get her household items and you’re pretty much patting her head and telling her thinking will hurt her brain. She’ll either dump you then and there, or quit her job to fulfil your 1960s housewife dream, leaving you with all the bills and the only person earning a wage. Either way, you’re stuck.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Vouchers<br /></strong><br />Nothing says I have no idea what to get you than vouchers. Marketed as the perfect gift as you can choose exactly what you want without the embarrassment or fuss. Really it says ‘I wasn’t listening to a word you said when we had all those deep and meaningful conversations.’ So think about what makes her smile, laugh and what her interests are and buy a gift to represent these. Even if it’s wrong you’ll get points for trying.</p>
<h1 style="text-align: justify;"><br />Top Worst Gift For Men and Women</h1>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Divorce Papers</strong>.<br /><br />Enough said.</p>
[template] => /templates/blog-document.html
[blog_publishing_date] => 2012-02-03 11:00:00
)
[instance_children] =>
[instance_gchildren] =>
[instance_parent] =>
[instance_fieldset] =>
[instance_base_type] =>
[uid] => 1423153606
[absolute_url] => /blog/posts/worst-valentines-gifts/index
[path] => /blog/posts/worst-valentines-gifts
[base_type] => Document
[type_id] => 74
[autonamed] =>
[nodeInPath] =>
[title_or_id] => Worst Valentines Gifts
[language] => en
)
[213600] => ContextNode Object
(
[_cache] => Array
(
)
[instance_id] => 213600
[instance_db] => client_1150
[instance_title] => Top 10 Fashion Statements
[instance_token] => top-10-fashion-statements
[instance_parent_id] => 210534
[instance_left_id] => 4
[instance_right_id] => 5
[instance_removed] =>
[instance_priority] => -673
[state_id] => 1
[instance_created] => 03/02/12 10:45
[forced] =>
[instance_modified] => 03/02/12 14:43
[instance_type] => 74:Document
[instance_owner] => 2569524
[instance_languages] => en
[instance_properties] => Array
(
[instance_id] => 213600
[instance_created] => 2012-02-03 14:43:32.887305
[instance_removed] =>
[instance_language] => en
[showrelatedvideos] => f
[meta_expires] =>
[meta_cachecontrol] =>
[meta_title] =>
[meta_description] =>
[meta_keywords] =>
[meta_copyright] =>
[meta_robots] =>
[videoid] =>
[current_images] =>
[meta_googlebot] => f
[meta_refresh] =>
[meta_author] =>
[title] => Top 10 Fashion Statements
[blog_contributor] => 211096:Deborah Read
[blog_category] => 210535:Fashion
[summary] => Great clothing can make you look and feel great and some dresses have launched whole careers. Here, we discuss the best and worst fashion statements. Some you’ll love, others will be hoffically cringe worthy!
[image] => new_all_dresses1.png
[body] => <p style="text-align: justify;">Great clothing can make you look and feel great and some dresses have launched whole careers. Here, we discuss the best and worst fashion statements. Some you’ll love, others will be hoffically cringe worthy!<br /><br />10) <strong>Bjork Swan Dress</strong><br /> <br />Bjork wore this dress to the Oscars in 2001. Resembling a dead swan, Bjork wore the dress as she knew she'd get publicity. Worked well!<br /><br />9) <strong>Jodie Marsh Belt Outfit<br /></strong><br />Spot light loving Jodie Marsh wore this little number to the FHM Awards obviously proving the need to literally wear a belt out, gaining a mass of bad publicity. She’ll catch her death!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">8) <strong>Geri Halliwell Union Jack Dress<br /></strong><br />This dress raised one of the biggest sums when auctioned off for a cancer charity, but the dress was home made by Geri. The dress has been a symbol of the Spice Girls and their Brit awards and has gone down in clothing history.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">7) <strong>Rihanna Swim Costume<br /></strong><br />Rihanna was pictured wearing this little number earlier this year and is set to cause a stir in the beachwear department. All we can think of is tan lines…</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">6) <strong>Liz Hurley Safety Pin Dress<br /></strong><br />When Liz Hurley stepped out in this number she was the girlfriend of Hugh Grant at the premier of Four Weddings and A Funeral. Hurley stole all the lime light, and believe it or not launched her career on it. The Versace dress is one of Versace’s best known creations.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">5) <strong>Katie Price Wedding Dress<br /></strong><br />Katie Price was doing ‘My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding’ long before the show started. She wanted Barbie Chic and ended up with this meringue of a dress. Opinion was divided, some loved it, others hated it. Either way, it made a statement.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">4) <strong>Marilyn Monroe White Dress<br /></strong><br />This iconic dress is nearly as iconic as it’s wearer. The dress was worn by Monroe in the 1955 film The Seven Year Itch. In the film, Monroe is standing over a grate in the sidewalk where a train is passing underneath. The breeze blows the dress up, exposing Monroe’s legs. After her death, most images of Monroe where her wearing the dress.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">3) <strong>Pippa Middleton Bridemaid Dress<br /></strong><br />Pippa Middleton was in danger of out doing her older sister at her own wedding, breaking the number one rule for women attending weddings – Don’t Outdress the Bride. Pippa’s figure was also a topic of conversations, with millions following the Ducan Diet after the wedding, whilst other diets promised to give you a bum like Pippa. Replica dresses also sprung up on the high street.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">2) <strong>Lady Gaga Meat Dress<br /></strong><br />Perhaps in danger of alienating her vegetarian fans, Gaga stepped out to the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards in a dress, hat, bag and shoes all made from Beef. This dress sparked controversy, but Lady Gaga said the dress was to highlight her disliking of the US militaries ‘Don’t ask, don’t tell’ policy. Not a statement about how women in the media are displayed then?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">1) <strong>Kate Middleton Wedding Dress<br /></strong><br />The whole of the UK stopped to watch the wedding of the year, that of Price William to Kate Middleton. Her dress was a highly kept secret, with many shedding a tear when it was finally revealed on the big day. After her wedding day there was a race for dress makers to make a replica for brides to be.</p>
[template] => /templates/blog-document.html
[blog_publishing_date] => 2012-02-03 10:45:00
)
[instance_children] =>
[instance_gchildren] =>
[instance_parent] =>
[instance_fieldset] =>
[instance_base_type] =>
[uid] => 32523807
[absolute_url] => /blog/posts/top-10-fashion-statements/index
[path] => /blog/posts/top-10-fashion-statements
[base_type] => Document
[type_id] => 74
[autonamed] =>
[nodeInPath] =>
[title_or_id] => Top 10 Fashion Statements
[language] => en
)
[213599] => ContextNode Object
(
[_cache] => Array
(
)
[instance_id] => 213599
[instance_db] => client_1150
[instance_title] => Top 10 Gadgets We Didn't Need
[instance_token] => top-10-gadgets-we-didn-t-need
[instance_parent_id] => 210534
[instance_left_id] => 4
[instance_right_id] => 5
[instance_removed] =>
[instance_priority] => -672
[state_id] => 1
[instance_created] => 03/02/12 10:37
[forced] =>
[instance_modified] => 03/02/12 14:44
[instance_type] => 74:Document
[instance_owner] => 2569524
[instance_languages] => en
[instance_properties] => Array
(
[instance_id] => 213599
[instance_created] => 2012-02-03 14:44:38.222951
[instance_removed] =>
[instance_language] => en
[showrelatedvideos] => f
[meta_expires] =>
[meta_cachecontrol] =>
[meta_title] =>
[meta_description] =>
[meta_keywords] =>
[meta_copyright] =>
[meta_robots] =>
[videoid] =>
[current_images] =>
[meta_googlebot] => f
[meta_refresh] =>
[meta_author] =>
[title] => Top 10 Gadgets We Didn't Know We Needed
[blog_contributor] => 211096:Deborah Read
[blog_category] => 210536:Electronics
[summary] => How the world has changed since I was a whipper snapper! There are some technologies that you can’t remember what you did without them. We’ve created a countdown of our favourite technologies we can’t live without.
[image] => yuppie_80s.jpg
[body] => <p style="text-align: justify;">How the world has changed since I was a whipper snapper! There are some technologies that you can’t remember what you did without them. We’ve created a countdown of our favourite technologies we can’t live without.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">10) <strong>Hands free<br /></strong><br />This device ensures that people can drive whilst talking on their mobile phones and walking down the street. Who knew that in the 21st century people would be walking around seemingly talking to themselves and this being a completely normal, socially acceptable thing to do.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">9) <strong>Laptop</strong>-<br /><br />t’s a computer, but it sits on my lap. Many people now prefer a laptop to a computer, it’s portable, easy to use and store and a lot lighter than a computer. Invented in 1969 by Bill Moggridge, it was initially used by NASA before being made commercially available.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">8) <strong>iPod<br /></strong><br />It’s like a portable CD player, but you can listen to any of your songs without having to carry them around separately… Whilst there were many different MP3 players around, in the year 2000 Apple came up with their own MP3 player, the iPod. This revolutionised the way people listen to and bought music. Together with iTunes, people could buy and download their music and take it wherever they went. The iPod is the best selling portable media player in history whilst on iTunes, 2.5 million songs are bought a week.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">7) <strong>3D TVs<br /></strong><br />Five years ago if you said 3DTV people thought of badly fitting glasses and bad films at the cinema. Not anymore. Not only is 3D cinema more advanced, but 3DTV and High Definition TV are the new vogue. Advances in technology has meant that films are brought further into life as people look for even more new and exciting ways to enjoy their favourite programmes and films.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">6) <strong>Gaming Consoles<br /></strong><br />Although games consoles were around in my day (my brother had a SNES), when I was young they were the cause of the obesity crisis. Playing the game console meant sitting with a handset pressing zeros, squares, exes and whatever else. Now, you’re part of the action, dancing, swinging and running just like your characters on screen. You can keep fit with your games console, something which was never dreamed of when I was a nipper!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">5) <strong>Sat Navs<br /></strong><br />‘Turn right in five hundred yards.’ Not only does the sat nav mean that people are now driving into ditches and canals, but also that youngsters have no need to read a map. The sav nav has become the gadget to have, as it means you never get lost… or does it?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">4) <strong>iPad<br /></strong><br />One step up from the laptop the iPad is the all inclusive device that lets you do anything. Surf the net? Not a problem! Read a book? Sure why not. Put together a presentation for work? Easy! Take my Dog for a walk? Not really. But literally everything else. When it was released, the iPad sold 3 million in eighty days, selling 14.8 million globally in 2010.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">3) <strong>Mobile phone<br /></strong><br />In the 80s mobile phones were bricks which only bankers carried around for their really important meetings. Now, mobiles are everywhere and everyone has at least one. They have revolutionised the way people communicate, from sending quick texts to organise a get together to face calling a loved one.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">2) <strong>Social Networking<br /></strong><br />Remember Friends Reunited? That was the first social networking site, but unfortunately Facebook just did it better. I was initially on Friends Reunited, MySpace and Bebo. 6 years later and Facebook is the only one I’m on, keeping in touch with friends and family but importantly not my parents, as that’s just uncool. There are 800 million active users on Facebook, with Britons spending on average 25 minutes and 33 seconds on the site a day- that’s enough time to watch an episode of Eastenders, take a quick jog, cook a meal or read a chapter or two of a good book. Over onto Twitter facts, Twitter has 100 million active users a month with 50 million active every day. Over five days one billion tweets are sent... and about 4 billion are about what you're having for your tea...</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">1) <strong>Internet<br /></strong><br />Without the internet, the above would be useless! The internet revolutionises the way we communicate, research, interact, work, shop, pretty much everything. Access to the internet is seen as a basic human right by many. It holds so much information that it would take a million human brains to store the same information, whilst 247 billion emails are sent globally every day. Every second, 28,258 people are watching porn. Enough said.</p>
[template] => /templates/blog-document.html
[blog_publishing_date] => 2012-02-03 10:37:00
)
[instance_children] =>
[instance_gchildren] =>
[instance_parent] =>
[instance_fieldset] =>
[instance_base_type] =>
[uid] => 1061559977
[absolute_url] => /blog/posts/top-10-gadgets-we-didn-t-need/index
[path] => /blog/posts/top-10-gadgets-we-didn-t-need
[base_type] => Document
[type_id] => 74
[autonamed] =>
[nodeInPath] =>
[title_or_id] => Top 10 Gadgets We Didn't Know We Needed
[language] => en
)
)