Surfing The Channel

Archive for December, 2010

No one ever talks about it, but many costume parties are actually quite boring. This is because instead of embracing the idea of dressing up as someone else , most people have a standard costume that they wear to every party and on every Halloween. Those that don’t stick to one specific costume are most likely going to choose from the standard costumes that everyone else does. So every party ends up with a certain quota of super heroes, naughty nurses, pirates and vampires. Where’s the creativity?

Unless you want to contribute to the boring quotient at the next costume party you’re going to have to break out of that mold and think of uncommon and unconventional costumes. Remember that the original idea behind a costume was to assume a different identity for a time — to play with the very notion of who you are, or at least who other people think you are.

Thinking like a kid is a good first step to freeing your mind from conventional costume choices. List your favorite movies, books, plays, even music and television can give you options. Then go a step further. When looking at beauty and the beast costumes don’t limit yourself to Belle and the Beast, try dressing up as the candlestick or create your own person-turned-into-household-item costume. Instead of dressing up like Michael Jackson, dress up as Billie Jean or some other character from a favorite song. Taking one or more steps away from the obvious is the only way you’re going to avoid being boring.

Time was when a backyard pool was a place to cool off and get some exercise. They were about fitness, fun, and relaxing for hours by or on the water without having to leave your home. Today, Houston swimming pool builders can tell you that pools can be the centerpiece of something larger. Families are building backyard sanctuaries with water as a focal point, but not the whole story.

It’s obvious that stress is a major problem in contemporary society. Work, money, education, health — all are sources of stress and can be adversely affected by stress. The idea that one’s home is a sanctuary from the stresses of the outside world has resulted in a wave of private castles being built all over the country. Many of these feature a backyard that is not just a place to play and hang out, but has become a true oasis against the outside world.

Imagine a pool that includes a spa and soothing waterfall or fountain. Instead of having a cold, cement deck, it is surrounded by weathered wood planks and strategically placed plants, trees, and flowers. Instead of traditional tile, there is faux stone in the waterfalls and other features to make the environment more natural. There is soft lighting, an embedded sound system, perhaps a bar and grill area as well as seating, tables, and other features for entertaining. Some homes even incorporate garden landscaping and fish ponds to make the yard a cohesive sanctuary instead of a series of isolated elements.