Just A Moment

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June can be both an exciting and stressful time. High school students are preparing and shopping for Prom or Semi Formal, parents are making plans for the younger kids being home for summer holidays. No matter which one your family is faced with there are so many areas to cover and so many plans to be made.

We have a few helpful tips and some calming distractions in this month’s issue.

In Creative Cuties which is a new article this month we have a few great and easy craft ideas for the little ones, including a Fathers Day Craft.

Gardening is a stress reliever for many, check out our Gardening for Beginners and Attracting Butterflies and Hummingbirds in our new article Country Mouse.

Fashion Sense this month will help not only with getting the perfect Prom dress, but also helping to update your summer wardrobe.

If you are thinking about saving a little money, or you just want to make your own creative and unique accessories for that perfect Prom outfit be sure to check out our Jewellery Making article for great bead boarding tips.

Find out how to get rid of unwanted mosquito’s, and make a great little bird house in our DIY article

Get some great party ideas from the Party Guru, ideas for all ages and interesting reasons to party! This month Lily’s Garden hosts hottie David Duchovny.

Gizmos and Gadgets has great Prom gift ideas.

Karma-Vore reviews a kitchen gadget and gives a great warm weather smoothie recipe for you and the kids.

And as always we have all of your favourite articles to make you smile.

Enjoy the month of June!

~Chris Reynolds~

© Copyright, 2010 Main Street Magazine/Rain Enterprises

As seen in the June Issue of Main Street Magazine.

Printed in Canada, ISSN: 1920-4299 by Rain Enterprises

To find out how to receive your free copy of MSM check out

www.mainstreetmagazine.net

Hope Floats

The Water Bowl
A man and his dog were walking along a road. The man was enjoying the scenery, when it suddenly occurred to him that he was dead.
He remembered dying, and that the dog walking beside him had been dead for years. He wondered where the road was leading them.
After a while, they came to a high, white stone wall along one side of the road. It looked like fine marble.
At the top of a long hill, it was broken by a tall arch that glowed in the sunlight. When he was standing before it he saw a magnificent gate in the arch that looked like mother-of-pearl, and the street that led to the gate looked like pure gold. He and the dog walked toward the gate, and as he got closer, he saw a man at a desk to one side.
When he was close enough, he called out, "Excuse me, where are we?"
"This is Heaven, sir," the man answered.
"Wow! Would you happen to have some water?" the man asked. "Of course, sir. Come right in, and I'll have some ice water brought right up."
The man gestured, and the gate began to open. "Can my friend," gesturing toward his dog, "come in, too?" the traveler asked. I'm sorry, sir, but we don't accept pets."
The man thought a moment and then turned back toward the road and continued the way he had been going with his dog.
After another long walk, and at the top of another long hill, he came to a dirt road leading through a farm gate that looked as if it had never been closed. There was no fence.
As he approached the gate, he saw a man inside, leaning against a tree and reading a book. "Excuse me!" he called to the man. "Do you have any water?" "Yeah, sure, there's a pump over there, come on in."
"How about my friend here?" the traveler gestured to the dog. "There should be a bowl by the pump." They went through the gate, and sure enough, there was an old-fashioned hand pump with a bowl beside it.
The traveler filled the water bowl and took a long drink himself, then he gave some to the dog.
When they were full, he and the dog walked back toward the man who was standing by the tree.
"What do you call this place?" the traveler asked.
"This is Heaven," he answered.
"Well, that's confusing," the traveler said. "The man down the road said that was Heaven, too."
"Oh, you mean the place with the gold street and pearly gates? Nope. That's hell." "Doesn't it make you mad for them to use your name like that?"
"No, we're just happy that they screen out the folks who would leave their best friends behind."

~ Author Unknown~

Fashion Sense - Determining Your Body Shape and Style

Determining Your Body Shape and Style

Part: ONE

Style isn't about the trends. It's about reuniting fashion with your height, shape, skin, eye and hair color, personality and age! Sorry ladies, old house wife, Pyjamas are us, frumpy, or t-shirt heaven are NOT fashion styles. They are however a refection of someone who has either given up on their appearance, or someone who does not understand how to dress the body mother-nature gave them.

When you walk out the door you should be showing the world that you are a put-together confident woman. Do not let others snicker at you behind your back because you look like something the cat-dragged-in, or worse, the corner bag lady. Be proud of who you are RIGHT now. Take control of your fashion, and your self confidence by determining your body shape, and what looks best on you now- you will feel better about yourself, and might even surprise yourself to discover there is a sexy vibrant woman under those baggy t-shirts and pyjama bottoms!

DO NOT allow a number to control your appearance, the number on the weigh scale or the tag size is not a reflection of who you are, it is a number-period! This number changes, you know that at 16 you did not have the same number you do at 30, it can go up, and it can go down, let your ‘style’ shine, and say good bye to the ‘number’ that is holding you back!

Reflect Upon Your Previous and Current Fashion Bloopers

Unlike men, you and I are blessed with endless variety in clothes and the freedom to dress creatively with exciting embellishments and details like sequins, earrings and beautiful shoes. But in spite of the many women’s clothing opportunities, you might end up looking ridiculous or "just not right" if you are dressing yourself in the right size or colour. All of us have made fashion mistakes, from the wrong colors to an unflattering cut that made our butt look bigger and our chest flatter.

Fashion Style Facts

Ø Some clothes and fashion trends won’t look good on you.

Ø "The more, the merrier!" doesn't necessarily apply to a real fashionista. Quality always outranks quantity. By quality, I don't necessarily mean the fabric quality. It's more about how valuable a piece of garment is to your style. It's about the versatility and how it makes you look and feel good.

Ø You don't need a fat wallet, model body or the fanciest clothes to look good.

This article series is meant to teach you;

Ø The right way to measure your size

Ø Tips for plus sizes

Ø What works for you and what doesn’t – finding your style

Ø Making it easier for you to decide what you're going to wear- putting together outfits

Ø Finding your best colours

Ø Body Shapes: How to Dress Your Body Shape-Finding Your Body Shape

Ø Tips for petites

Ø Closet organizing

Ø Flatter your face shape

And an entire slew of tips in between.

Let’s get started with “the right way to measure your size”- don’t be scared, remember we have decided that numbers no longer rule us, nor do they hold us back from our beauty- ALL women, of ALL sizes are vibrant, sexy creatures that are meant to stand proud!

Side note:

Ladies, let’s band together and make a pack not to judge the shape of any woman, but encourage them for who they are, with greater confidence we let go of negative body images and ‘want’ to become healthier, (health is the key- not shape!) because we have increased our own personal happiness and poise!

How to find your size

So, we have resolved that sizes mean nothing!! When it comes to clothes, this is so very true, one manufacturer's size 8 is another one's 12. UK sizes look the same as US, but they're not. Because US sizing has changed over the years, finding your size in vintage clothing can be a challenge. But armed with your accurate measurements, you can decipher any sizing system.

What you'll need

A cloth tape measure and a full length mirror. Take measurements undressed (and smile! This is your body- LOVE it) or in lightweight clothes. Pull the tape measure snug, but not too tight. Keep your arms at your side and have a friend take the measurements, for the best results. And don't slouch! Stand up nice and tall.

Bust

Measure around the shoulder blades, under the armpits and over the fullest part of the bust.

Waist

Find your natural waistline and measure.

Hip

Measure the fullest part of the hip (usually about 7-9 inches below the waist-your belly button)

Bra Size

1. Wear a comfortable bra and measure the rib cage just below the breast. If the number is 33 or less, add 5 inches to that number and that is your bra size. For example, you measured 31 inches + 5 = bra size 36. Over 33 inches add 3 inches to get you bra size. For example you measured 40 + 3 = bra size 43.

Both ways--rounding odd numbers up to even.

2. Then measure the bust around the fullest part. When you subtract the last number (fullest part) by the among of your bra size, you'll come up with a number used to determine cup size by using the chart below (the A,B,C, etc. cup chart) For example if your bra size was 36 and your cup measurement was 38, the difference is 2" so you would wear a 36B.

Use this Cup chart:

AA = 1/2" A = 1" B = 2"
C = 3" D = 4" DD or E = 5"
F = 6" G = 7"

Hats

Measure above the ears about 1/2" around the forehead.

Gloves

With hand partially closed, measure over the knuckles, around the hand, excluding the thumb.

Tips

Ø UK sizes may seem the same as U.S. women's, but are generally about a size smaller (a U.S. 8 is about a UK 10) To find your European size, you can add 30 to your size. A U.S. 6 is a Euro 36. Always refer to size charts for fit!

Ø When buying vintage clothing, be aware that the sizes have changed drastically over the years.

Ø If it's cotton, it's going to shrink. Add anywhere from 1/3" to 3/4" extra to compensate. Some makers count potential shrinkage into the size already. When in doubt -- ask a customer service person.

Ø Many manufacturers or stores may have their own special fit and size tips. It's a good idea to consult any additional information.

Ø Get a great tailor, because no matter how closely you order your size, it's still not custom made, you will be surprised for only a few dollars more having your clothes tailored what it will do for a proper look.

So there you have it ladies, part one is complete, come back for the July issue, as we discuss tips for plus sizes and how to determine your body shape.

~Louise Kana~

© Copyright, 2010 Main Street Magazine/Rain Enterprises

As seen in the June Issue of Main Street Magazine.

Printed in Canada, ISSN: 1920-4299 by Rain Enterprises

To find out how to receive your free copy of MSM check out

www.mainstreetmagazine.net

Ab Fabulous

Ab Fabulous

Provided by Sarah Grant and Nathane Jackson

Wish you were more hourglass than pear? Bummed that you’re sporting a baby bump and your baby is already two? Here’s everything you need to know about your midsection and what you can do to change it.

WAIST-ENHANCER PLAN
The best way to get those fab abs is with a combination of intense cardiovascular exercise, abdominal strength training and proper nutrition.

Cardiovascular Training: 4 to 6 times a week for 30 minutes or more. Exercise as intensely as possible to get bang for your buck in calorie burning. If you want to tone your midsection, pick an activity that is challenging for you. If you’re someone who regularly walks, try jogging, swimming or spinning.

Strength Training: 2 to 4 times a week, perform progressive resistance movements. Try our stability ball exercises (below) to get started and as you improve, add a comprehensive, full-body strength-training program.

Stretching: Just 10 minutes at the end of every workout will help with your recovery and prevent injury.

Nutrition: Eat 5 to 6 smaller meals per day that include lean protein (chicken, fish, egg whites or tofu), fibrous carbs (unprocessed vegetables and fruits) and starchy carbs (potatoes, sweet potatoes, brown rice, and steel-cut oatmeal). This will rev up your metabolism to burn fat and give you the energy to get through your exercises.

AB BREAKDOWN
All these muscles contribute to a flat tummy.

· Oblique (internal and external): Form a sheath around the torso, protecting your bony structures and internal organs.

· Rectus Abdominis: Forms the classic and sought-after six-pack.

· Transversus Abdominis: Hidden beneath the rectus. Acts as a girdle to flatten your middle.

FAT FACTS
Even the most developed abs can be hidden under layers of fat.

· Subcutaneous Fat: Found all over the body beneath the skin (like cellulite on the back of your legs and butt).

· Visceral Fat: Surrounds internal organs and is more dangerous because it can impede organ function. People with large waistlines may carry a lot of visceral fat, and are at greater risk of heart disease, diabetes and many cancers.

TOP 5 MYTHS

1. Ab exercises get rid of abdominal fat.
Fact: For a healthy and sustainable change to your midsection, you must reduce body fat with good old-fashioned exercise and healthy, balanced eating.

2. For best results, train your abs every day. Fact: Your abs need at least one day of rest to recover and regenerate after a workout.

3. Certain supplements target your abs.
Fact: You can’t spot-reduce body fat with supplements.

4. Using additional weight to work your abs will give you a smaller midsection.
Fact: Proper form is more important than adding weight. Focus on form and reducing body fat. (If you carry body fat around your midsection, your abs will be hidden no matter how developed the ab muscles.)

5. Crunches are the best ab exercise.
Fact: Training your abs with a combination of exercises will produce better results. Varying the exercise helps ensure that you consistently make improvements without reaching a plateau. Targeting all abdominal muscle fibres will help you achieve a more balanced midsection.

WORK YOUR ABS...NOT YOU’RE HIP FLEXORS

These simple do’s and don’ts will help you improve your form and isolate your abs – not your hip flexors. You will know your abs are working when you feel the burn after about 15 reps.

DO

· Do contract your abs in 2-3 inch movements.

· Do keep your abs tight and flexed throughout.

· Do crunch with a controlled speed and keep moving.

DON'T

· Don’t use a large range of motion.

· Don’t pause or relax your abs during the movement.

· Don’t crunch too fast.

1. Stability Ball Crunch

Get into position Put the ball under the lower/middle back area. The lower back should be pressed into the ball throughout the exercise.
Step 1 Slowly curl your trunk, pressing your ribcage down toward your hips, allowing your shoulders and upper back to move away from the ball. Crunch the abdomen while exhaling and focus on feeling the muscle contract. The crunch should be a 2-3 inch movement.
Step 2 Slowly return to the starting position and repeat in a smooth and continuous motion.

2. Oblique Crunch

Get into position Place the ball on the floor next to a wall. Kneel on the floor between the wall and the ball. Place your hand on top of the stability ball for balance. Extend one leg forward and one leg backward, bracing them where the wall meets the floor. It is very important that the bottom leg is the one extended forward.
Step 1 Stretch sideways over the stability ball with your arms bent and hands beside your head. Push your hips downward into the stability ball and crunch your body to the side, lifting 2-3 inches off the ball in the direction of the wall.
Step 2 Slowly lower yourself back to your original position and repeat in a smooth, controlled, continuous motion.

3. Reverse Ab Crunch

Get into position Place both feet on top of the stability ball. Press your heels into the ball and use it to anchor your body during the crunches. Keep the stability ball tucked under your legs.
Step 1 Curl your trunk, pressing your ribcage down toward your hips and lifting your shoulder blades off the floor. The range of motion should be about 2-3 inches.
Step 2 Lower yourself back down to the starting position and repeat in a continuous, smooth motion

© Copyright, 2010 Main Street Magazine/Rain Enterprises

As seen in the June Issue of Main Street Magazine.

Printed in Canada, ISSN: 1920-4299 by Rain Enterprises

To find out how to receive your free copy of MSM check out

www.mainstreetmagazine.net

The Go 2 Spot - Summer Beaches

Summer beaches!

Ontario offers miles of coastline to explore, and beaches galore to relax, play and unwind on. Try visiting Port Dover, Turkey Point, & Long Point beaches this summer as well as the more famous Sable and Wasaga beaches.

Long Point Provincial Park

Located on a 40km long sand spit along the shores of Lake Erie, Long Point is a United Nations Biosphere Reserve. The area is well known for its exceptional beaches, which extend over 2000m along the Erie shoreline making it an ideal destination for the summer months.

Turkey Point The only provincial park with a golf course, Turkey Point is also a naturalist's paradise. Its diverse ecosystem includes marshes, bluffs and oak savanna. Hiking trails lead to a fish culture station, a hatchery pond, and panoramic views of Lake Erie. Camp on the bluffs, swim and sail at the beach, fish for perch or play nine holes of golf.

Port Dover

While in Port Dover be sure to visit the many art and craft shops that offer unique items. The town's business section offers a wide range of shopping and services. Len's Mill Store at the north end of town is one of Canada's largest factory outlets. Port Dover is situated on the north shore of Lake Erie and is the home of the world's largest fresh water fishing fleet, and famous Port Dover beach and Friday the 13 motorcycle days.

Sauble Beach

Voted "number 1 beach in Ontario" by Toronto Star readers and "one of Canada's top 10 beaches" by readers of Macleans magazine. Sauble beach is located less than 3 hours north of Toronto on the beautiful shores of Lake Huron. Here you will find 11km's of the softest sand and most pristine waters in Ontario. The beautiful sand dunes of Sauble Beach are part of an ecosystem that has evolved over 1000's of years. The dunes provide natural shore protection, and are home to many rare and unique plants & grasses.

Wasaga Beach

Wasaga Beach Provincial Park is the first provincial park in Canada awarded the Blue Flag designation for its efforts to manage Wasaga’s shoreline according to international environmental standards. This 14-kilometre, safe sandy beach on Georgian Bay attracts thousands every summer.

© Copyright, 2010 Main Street Magazine/Rain Enterprises

As seen in the June Issue of Main Street Magazine.

Printed in Canada, ISSN: 1920-4299 by Rain Enterprises

To find out how to receive your free copy of MSM check out

www.mainstreetmagazine.net