Saturday 31 January 2009

OIL RIG TRAINING


Effective Offshore Training


With many local people looking for different work opportunities, two Letterkenny brothers might just have the answer they need. Khris and Frankie Veldman have opened a new training and recruitment centre, (Feidhm Mara Teoranta) to prepare people for work in the developing offshore oil and gas industry. To get a job offshore, workers need specific training before they can be considered and this is one of the areas where the first Irish offshore training centre can help. Feidhm Mara Teoranta based in Falcarragh provides the Basic Offshore Survival Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET) course as well as training for delegates to work on the drill floor.

There are lots of job opportunities available in the industry including work for painters, labourers, cooks, crane operators, mechanics, electricians, carpenters, welders, banksmen, plumbers and maintenance engineers but you would need to have your certificate before you would be considered for the position. The brothers also run a recruitment division to help people find offshore jobs. With their experience of what the industry needs as well as their contacts, the recruitment division will actively search for the best offshore work available.

Enrolment is now being taken for the three-day health and safety course in March and Khris recommends people to book early, as many of the available positions need to be filled as soon as possible. They can be contacted on (00353) 74 9135999 or check out their website

5 MINUTES WITH - SHANE CANNING


Shane Canning was born in Moville and has just returned there after graduating from Liverpool University with a BSc combined honours degree in Sport and Health Studies. He is a keen football player and is a football coach. He has also completed a qualification in Personal Training. This is the area where Shane is concentrating his energy and he has just set up his new business SC Health and Fitness, based in Moville. His company is unique for Inishowen as Shane comes to his customers’ home to set up individual exercise plans for his client and helps them keep on track throughout the process. The idea is great, especially for people who wouldn’t be comfortable in a gym, or if there are travelling or mobility problems or simply for people who are short on time. Shane is also running an 8-week circuit-training course from his base in the Moville Celtic Clubhouse. If you would like any more information about the services Shane is providing, you can ring him on 086 3481087 or 074 9382171


What music are you listening to at the moment?
I pretty much like all genres. I absolutely love the Kings Of Leon at the moment though. My brother put them on to me a few years ago and they just keep getting better.

What book are you reading?
I am not a big fan of reading; I don’t really have the time for it. I will breeze through the TV guide though.

What was your favourite childhood game?
I have been really obsessed with football since I have been able to kick one. So I would have to say that if it looked like a football I would be playing with it….

Have you been to the cinema recently, what did you see and was it any good?
I went to see Yes Man, an enjoyable, but formulaic romantic comedy about a man who says yes to everything for a whole year. I am not a big fan of Jim Carey but I though it was very funny.

What section of the newspaper do you turn to first?
The back pages to see what the report is of our match (Moville Celtic) at the weekend.

What would you never throw away?
Photographs. They are brilliant to look back on years after they have been taken.

Most embarrassing moment of your life?
On my first day at university, there were 500 people standing and waiting to get their student card photographs. When it was my turn, I went to sit down, missed the seat and fell into a heap on the floor….. Good start….

Favourite TV programme?
All cooking programmes. I particularly enjoy Heston Blumenthol, the chef/scientist. He experiments with slow food cooking and aerating chocolate soufflés in a vacuum to make the bubbles bigger. He will also travel the world to get certain ingredients for a meal and buy and feed a live chicken for a few weeks before he eats it.

What job did you want to do when you were a child?
This is very predictable for me…I wanted to play for Manchester United. I wanted to be a defender

Where was your best holiday and what made it special?
I went to America for the summer after I finished secondary school. I found it amazing to see how differently the Americans lived and it gave me a chance to see more of the world.

What famous people would you invite around for dinner and why?
Three chefs: Gordon Ramsey, Jamie Oliver and Heston Blumentol so they could all cook….

What do you do for a special treat?
My girlfriend and I really enjoy going away for the weekend.

Favourite animal?
Invisible ones. I am not a big fan of animals.

Biggest thrill?
Going fast (responsibly of course) and I have always fancied bungee jumping or sky diving… I will have to put that on my list of things to do.

Biggest Challenge?
Setting up my personal training business. I have had some great support though from family and the Inishowen Partnership.

What was the best present you ever got?
Money is always a good one.

What was the last thing you bought just for yourself?
A simple pair of trainers, nothing special.

What charity would you support?
I donate to the Foyle Hospice when I can. It’s such a worthy cause.

The world’s most irritating/most useful invention?
The mobile phone can pass for both. It’s good for keeping in touch with clients, but can ring at some very inconvenient moments.

Favourite past-time?
Playing football, especially for my team. I have played for a long time. I started off in the Inishowen Ulster Schoolboys and went to the senior team at 15.

Which period in history would you most like to have lived through?
I like the glitz and glamour of the 1970’s

What do you have for breakfast?
I tend to keep things simple. This morning I had Weetabix, orange juice and an Actimel.

What was your first paid job?
I worked for the Centra shop in Moville when I was younger, that’s where I got my first real pay packet… I can’t remember how much it was now…

Worst household chore?
That would be an outside job… weeding. I don’t like that at all.

Personal philosophy?
Be yourself.

Sunday 25 January 2009

IN BRIEF....

Sunny frm the new Pagoda take away in Muff tests the kilns...


Francis O'Donnell retires from Cockhill church after 37 years....






Water pump damage leaves families without water...

Illegal dumping in the church skip





Saturday 24 January 2009

WISDOM OF THE WORLD - WEEK 42


The Preacher and the Farmer


An old hill farmer trudged several miles through the freezing snow to his local and very remote chapel for Sunday service. No-one else was there, apart from the priest.
"I'm not sure it's worth proceeding with the service - might we do better to go back to our warm homes and a hot drink?.." asks the clergyman, inviting a mutually helpful reaction from his audience of one.

"Well, I'm just a simple farmer," says the old farmer, "But when I go to feed my herd, and if only one beast turns up, I don't leave it hungry."


So the priest, feeling somewhat ashamed, delivers his service - all the bells and whistles, hymns and readings. The service lasted a good couple of hours – and the priest finished proudly with the fresh observation that no matter how small the need, our duty remains. And he thanked the old farmer for the lesson he had learned.


As the two men set off for home through the snow, the priest looks at the farmer. "Was that okay?" he asks him.


"Well I'm just a simple farmer," says the old crofter, "But when I go to feed my herd, and if only one beast turns up, I sure don't force it to eat what I brought for the whole herd..."


From which we see the extra lesson, that while our duty remains regardless of the level of need, we have the additional responsibility to ensure that we adapt our delivery (of whatever is our stock in trade) according to the requirements of our audience

NEDS POINT FORT AND THE DONEGAL SEARCH AND RESCUE TEAM


































































5 MINUTES WITH - DONAL KEARNEY


Donal was born and reared in Buncrana. He is currently studying for a degree and he is currently busy playing the leading role in Buncrana’s latest Pantomime - Ali Baba. Donal is the leading man, Ali Baba and has to defend himself against the scheming Abu Hassan five nights a week until the 31st of this month. Donal also teaches drama workshops in the former old Cockhill school and last year took the group to the Youth Federation event in Maynooth where they won the All Ireland title in the Performing Arts category playing the Children of Lír. The group are not resting on their success and are preparing for the Lion King that will be staged around Easter time (date to be confirmed). If he isn’t busy enough, Donal also works part time at the Four Lanterns and O’Flaherty’s bar in the town and is also finding time to train for the Belfast City Marathon in May


What music are you listening to at the moment?
I have a lot of music on my iPod and tend to listen to it on the bus. I am enjoying the Prodigy at the moment and I also like Lenny Kravitz and Stevie Wonder. I remember hearing a live band play ‘Superstition’ and asked the band that sang it originally. I went straight out and bought the CD…and just went on from there…

What books are you reading?
I have a few on the go. I am reading two Shakespeare plays for my course - The Tempest and King Lear. I am also reading a book called Let Me Take You Down by Jack Jones. It’s a fascinating and scary read about the enigma Mark Chapman who shot and killed former Beatle John Lennon on Dec. 8, 1980, in New York City. I am up to the bit where we learn of Chapman's fascination with the book The Catcher in the Rye.

What was your favourite childhood game?
In the wintertime my favourite game was getting the sledge out and careering down the bray near the Cockhill Road.

Have you been to the cinema recently, what did you see and was it any good?
It was a while ago now…. Last summer I went to see Christian Bale play Batman who has to deal with the Joker in The Dark Knight. I have always thought Batman was a great character.

What section of the newspaper do you turn to first?
I tend to always start at the start and work my way through….

What would you never throw away?
Childhood memories, both emotional and physical….If that sounds a bit too cheesy then I wouldn’t throw away the last drop of corona out of the bottle either.

Most embarrassing moment on stage?
The most recent one would be when I was playing the doctor in Oliver the Musical. I probably didn’t rehearse as much as I should and I kept calling Oliver “she”.

Favourite TV programme?
It’s a bit of a mixed bag for me when it comes to the T.V. I enjoy the RTE programme Reeling in the Years. It picks a year in recent history and covers the news and cultural styles at that time. I also enjoy Planet Earth with David Attenborough, although it’s not on at the moment.

What job did you want to do when you were a child?
It sounds a bit predictable, but I always wanted to be either a teacher or a lecturer.

Where was your best holiday and what made it special?
Last summer in San Francisco was the most enjoyable and interesting holiday I have ever been on. I visited the island of Alcatraz where the former federal prison is. I have wanted to go for a long time and it was definitely worth the wait. There is still so much atmosphere there. When I got back home I watched ‘The Rock’ starring Nicholas Cage and Sean Connory at least ten times…

What famous people would you invite around for dinner and why?
Is this if I could cook? I would invite Peter Kay around for the craic and Brian Lenihan the Finance Minister just to ask him why….? Then I would invite the actress Jessica Alba……just because……….

What do you do for a special treat?
I am studying full time and in the panto most nights so I don’t have the luxury of special treats just at the moment… I am sure it won’t always be like this……..

Favourite animal?
I don’t do animals…..I think there is a word for people who feel like me ‘Zoophobia’, the fear of animals.

Biggest Challenge?
I tend to take things in my stride so I don’t think I have come across my greatest challenge yet.

What was the best present you ever got?
This is another cheesy answer. I was ten years old and was given a bright yellow Panasonic Walkman. I was also given Bad by Michael Jackson on a cassette to play on it. Nothing has ever equalled or surpassed that present.

What was the last thing you bought just for yourself?
I bought a Panasonic camera for myself yesterday. It’s nothing too fancy and isn’t bright yellow but it does have a 10X optical zoom. I dabble a bit on Facebook and put some photos onto my site.

The world’s most recent interesting development?
That would have to be the Internet. Personal social networking on sites such as Facebook, which I have just mentioned, or My Space certainly open up the world.

Favourite past-time?
This ought to go under the heading of what do you do for a special treat? As I enjoy social interaction. Jogging, the gym and sitting in the Jacuzzi in the Gateway spa. I also enjoy playing the piano …the list could go on…..

Which period in history would you most like to have lived through?
This would depend on my social class. If I was well up there with the rich landowners and not a peasant, I would probably go for the Medieval times. Lots of Mead in pewter goblets and rich banquets and talk of dragon slaying.

What do you have for breakfast?
Breakfast was my last meal about twelve hours ago. I had cereal I think but can’t remember because I was out of the house and on the 8 am bus into Derry… far too early.

What was your first paid job?
I went to work at the Fruit of the Loom factory when I left school , that was where my first wage packet came from .. And many more besides. I worked there for a long time.

Best/worst household chore?
I don’t mind housework….so I don’t find anything a chore..

What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
Today is the tomorrow that you worried about yesterday and all is well.

Personal philosophy?
Live for the moment.




WEDDING STUFF...LOTS OF IT..


WEDDING INTRODUCTION

Getting married is probably one of the most exciting – and stressful things that you will ever do. It’s a big, big day and to make magic happen takes a lot of preparation and help from a wide range of professionals - and your mother.

The Inishowen Independent is here to help. This information-packed special wedding planner pullout is crammed full of articles and advice to make your once in a lifetime day something special.



Beautiful Bride

The happiness and joy a bride feels on her wedding day naturally enhances her beauty. But of course choosing a dress, getting your hair done, choosing make-up and jewellery are all part of the excitement in preparing for the big day.


The Dress
More time and thought is put into choosing a dress than anything else (with the exception of course of choosing a husband). There are some amazing web sites on the net which can help you sort through styles and begin to decide which ones will suit you best. The style of your dress is the single most important factor in creating the overall look on your wedding day. Wedding dresses can range from sleek and simple to grand and elaborate, depending on your personal taste and the statement you want to make on your big day. The silhouette of your wedding dress is the first image that your groom will see when you begin your walk down the aisle and you want to make sure that your first impression is a memorable one.

Wedding Dress Styles
Basic styles include A-line/Princess, Empire, Mermaid/Fishtail, Ball Gown and Column and once you have chosen the basic shape, there is the question of necklines, sleeve lengths and fabric choices. Take your time in your choice. You don’t want to be looking back at photos in twenty-five years and cringing. Timeless elegance is the key.

If white is not your colour (and not every-one looks wonderful in white), don’t be afraid to choose the amazing tinted dresses that are available today. When the white is toned down with a soft whisper of another colour it can enhance your beauty without washing you out.

Trying on ‘The Dress’
Before you make up your mind on a style, go to your bridal shop with your mum, sister or a trusted friend. Give yourself loads of time. Wear your nicest undergarments as you will be spending a lot of time showing them off to perfect strangers, and bring a camera. Try on everything. It is amazing how often the dress you didn’t think of is the one that looks best on you Every time you try one on that might be ‘the one’ take a photo. Keep going until you have exhausted the supply of dresses (and the sales assistant) and then walk out. This is hard to do because you will be so tempted to get the dress that day, but this is an important purchase and you should give yourself time to sleep on it before making that final commitment.

Perfect Skin
Having your skin glowing with health for the big day is a must and there are lots of tips and tricks that you can do for dewy skin and blushing cheeks. Inishowen brides are truly lucky to have such an array of beauty salons and beauticians. Your local beauty therapist can consult with you and organise a skin treatment routine in the weeks up to your wedding. Steam facials are great cleansers and you will really be able to notice the difference in your skin. Make sure that the skin products you buy are suitable for your skin type. Get yourself into a skin care routine.
v Remove every trace of make-up in the evening.
v Invest in a good facial scrub and mask. These remove the dead skin from your face. You will find the grey hue that is characteristic of neglected skin is removed to reveal skin that is replenished, glowing and supple.
v Moisturise, moisturise and moisturise. The benefits of moisturisation can not be understated. It rejuvenates and invigorates and leaves skin beautifully smooth.
v Drink lots of water to keep your skin hydrated. It is recommended to drink about five pints a day.

Make-up and Hair
Getting your hair and make-up perfect for your big day makes you feel radiant and confident. Pre-book your hair appointment well in advance of your wedding day, particularly if your bridesmaids and flower girls are all to be attended to. Many hairdressers and beauticians are more than happy to accommodate bridal parties including mothers, sisters and cousins. Give them plenty of notice to avoid disappointment. Have a pre-wedding booking too for both hair and make-up to ensure you get the look you want. Why not get your hands and nails done too as lots of your guests will want to see your ring.

Rings
“With this ring, I thee wed.” Choosing your wedding rings is very romantic. Many a woman will wear her ring for the rest of her life and some never take them off at all. The exchange of rings is an important part of the ceremony and there are so many beautiful rings to choose from. Local jewellers have ready-made rings available, but the majority of rings will be hand-made to a couple’s specifications and may take some weeks to come in.

Jewellery
The jewellery you choose will depend on your taste, your budget and the style of your dress. Your taste is, of course, personal to you. Are you a sweet Doris Day or a glamorous Joan Collins? Budgets, that dreaded restriction, will mean the difference between Cartier and costume jewellery. Ultimately, though, it is the style of your wedding dress that will determine the accessorising jewellery. If your dress is simple and pure then you have the option of glamming it up with large gems, a choker style in diamante, classic pearls, the unassuming beauty of a gold pendant or a ‘ghost’ necklace (a stone hung from an invisible thread). If however, your gown is intricate and detailed the only option is simple, otherwise you take the risk of looking overdone. The trick is to make it look and seem effortless. Trust your instinct –and your mum.



"There is nothing wrong with stomach butterflies… You just have to get them to fly in formation!"

THE SPEECH

Your hands are clammy; you have a dry voice and quivering hands…. It’s not the morning after the stag night that is causing this… it’s the thought of the speech.
Making a wedding speech is probably one of the most nerve-racking things you will ever do. There is help at hand though and the first thing to do is prepare well in advance. There are tips and tricks that actors and public speakers do before they go on stage to ensure that they don’t looked stressed. The audience will be on your side and it’s not like you are having to sell anything to them (they have bought into your life anyway). Weddings are, by their very nature, sentimental occasions and guests are there to celebrate.

So if you are the groom, groom’s father, best man or the bride, these tips will make you look like a confident professional.

To be at your best the speech will need to be broken down into manageable sections.


SMILE
Having a sincere smile on your face will put people at ease and make what you are about to say the most believable thing they have ever heard.

EYE CONTACT
Eye contact is important too, not only to put people at ease, but to let you see the friendly faces in the crowd. Don’t stare at one person though or you will scare them. Cast your eyes over the whole room and don’t forget the bride and groom. Confident speakers will look at several different points in the room. Looking at a table as a whole will be enough as people will think you are looking at them.

SLOW DOWN
Timing is everything as all good comedians know and the same can be said for public speaking. You will look like the relaxed professional if you take things slowly and build up a bit of speed for punch lines of jokes and the end of embarrassing stories about the bride and groom. If you start off fast and build up to supersonic speed no-one will have a clue what you are talking about. Pausing for laughs is usually very successful and it’s very rare that the tumbleweed comes across the floor in a prolonged silence. When you combine your comic timing with a bit of eye contact you are on to a sure fire winner.

STAND STILL
It’s very tempting to fumble about and be all over the place when you are talking. Keep your two feet on the floor and even the weight out. Breathe in and out slowly and relax. Make eye contact with the crowd and keep smiling.

BE SINCERE
The room is full of love and romance so it will be easy to tune into that. You will find it easy to be sincere when you say just how special the bride, groom, father, son or daughter is. Again keep positive, stand still and keep breathing… remember to breath out…

BE YOURSELF
Most people will know you and know if you use really long words in conversation. Be yourself as the more you are true to your own personality the more relaxed and comfortable you and the guests will feel. If you make a mistake, either make light of it or just carry on, half the people will not have noticed and those that do won’t want you to be hard on yourself. It’s probably the sort of stuff you do everyday in front of them anyway. The guests know who you are and will respond positively to your smile and confidence.

HOW LONG
The attention span of adults is anywhere for 10 minutes to 40 minutes (in very exceptional circumstances). Children can be anything up to 10 seconds. Because of this it’s important to gauge the crowd. You can usually estimate stories to go on for about 3 minutes maximum. No matter how entertaining you think you are no-one wants to listen to anyone talk all day. It’s all about the bride and groom remember….


OPENING LINES
If you are stuck for opening lines for the speech, here are two that might work.
Welcome to everyone, I hope you are all enjoying yourselves on this special day. It’s great to see you so many family and friends and I can honestly say it would not have been the same without you…..just a lot cheaper.

I’d like to thank Father Doherty for a great job he did today at church. I have learned something new during the vows, that I hadn’t realised before. That it is Ok to have sixteen wives….four better….four worse…...four richer…..four poorer.




Wedding Invitations
Once you have your guest list sorted, it is time to send out the invitations. The invitations are to tell your guests the day, the time and the place and they come in lots of different shapes, sizes and designs. They can be bought off the shelf, customised by a designer or produced by the couple themselves. Having a calligrapher in the family can create beautiful invitations and adding a personalised quote can be a romantic touch. For example “The miracle of love is that love is given to us to give to one another...”

Music
With its rich musical heritage, Inishowen has plenty of fabulous musicians, bands and DJ’s available for your big day. You might like some uplifting choral singing during the mass, you might choose a romantic love song for the first dance of the happily wedded couple and of course it wouldn’t be an Irish wedding if there wasn’t some great music for your guests to dance to as the night wears on. Ask around, go and check out the musicians and book them early to avoid disappointment.

Transport
Inishowen is well served with vehicle hire firms to provide something special to get you to the church on time. If you are working on a budget, get some ribbons for your dad’s car. With a few more resources, there are all sorts of options you can have. There are classic cars, limos, chauffeurs and even horse drawn carriages.



CHOOSING THE IDEAL VENUE FOR YOUR WEDDING

Use these wedding venue tips to help you make your big decision on where to hold your wedding reception.

Inishowen boasts one of the most comprehensive lists in the country for stunning venues for a wedding reception. Inishowen also has beautiful natural landscapes as the perfect backdrop for your big day. Inishowen has it all, so why go anywhere else?

The type of venue you are looking for will depend on quite a few factors… Money being one of them. Another influence is the number of guests you are inviting.
If only a small number of guests can attend the ceremony due to lack of space, or you want a very private ceremony, then additional guests can be invited to the reception afterwards. For 100 guests or more, consider rooms designed specifically for holding receptions, as they will have all the facilities you need.Most reception venues will quote you a cost per head for food and drink, plus a hire charge for the venue or outdoor marquees, plus the cost of any entertainment, a toastmaster, cake stand etc.
Initial consultation
In your initial consultation with the staff at the chosen venue, get a full list of all the possible costs and charges. Decide roughly what your budget is and your ideal head count and then the venue price range will become clear. Once you’ve got a particular venue in mind, there are some important questions to ask to make sure that it really is suitable for the sort of reception you want:
Check out menus. Can they provide the food you want or do you need to get a caterer in?
Can you provide your own champagne? Do you have to pay for corking the bottles?
Are there adequate cloakroom and lavatory facilities? There’s nothing worse than a queue at the ladies (or gents..)
Are there facilities for less mobile guests or anyone with a disability? Most places in Inishowen are up to speed with disability access but it always pays to check.
Is there special seating for elderly or frail guests, particularly if the reception does not include a sit-down meal?
If children are to be invited, are there special facilities for them, for example areas where they can let off steam or highchairs for the meal?
Are there sufficient car parking arrangements. You don’t want your guests sinking in the mud at the side of a busy road when they park their cars.
Is the reception venue within a reasonable distance of the ceremony? Is it easy to find, or well sign-posted?
Will the reception venue accommodate the right number of guests and allow you to have the kind of reception you’ve got planned? Check carefully things such as licensing laws and late night curfews, if your guests are taking the drink they wouldn’t take too kindly being asked to leave at 10pm…...
Is there accommodation at the venue, or nearby, for out-of-town guests? This is particularly important again for those who partake in alcoholic refreshment as the less distance to move to get into bed the better.
Are decorations included or will you have to provide your own balloons, flowers and table decorations?
Make friends with the person taking responsibility for the reception details at the venue. Get them to keep you informed of any changes and all the charges for the day. You don’t want to be hit with any added expense when you are heading off for the honeymoon



The Legend of the Claddagh Ring
The Claddagh ring is Ireland’s unique symbol of love and friendship. The legend starts with Richard Joyce, who came from the little fishing village of Claddagh. Shortly before he was due to be married, Richard Joyce, who was a fisherman was captured at sea by pirates and sold into slavery in Algeria. He became the property of a rich Moorish goldsmith, who, sensing his potential began to train him in his craft. In time Richard became a master craftsman and eventually he was rewarded his freedom. On his return to Claddagh, he created the ring that has become famous world wide, the two hands cradling a crowned heart. His legacy remains to this day. Tradition has it that if you wear the ring on your right hand with the crown turned inwards, the world can see that the heart is as yet unoccupied. Worn on the right hand with the crown turned upwards, then a love is being considered. When worn on the left hand and the crown is turned outwards, then two hearts have become inseparable.


Choosing Wedding Vows
Traditional wedding vows suit many couples, but sometimes the bride and groom want to choose vows that reflect their love. Often couples write their own vows and there are also many beautiful romantic words that couples choose for the ceremony.


Popular Wedding Vows
All that I am and all that I have, I offer to you in love and in joy. From this day forward I will love and comfort you, hold you close,prize you above all others, and remain faithful to you all the days of our lives.

An Eskimo Love Song
You are my husbandMy feet shall run because of youMy feet dance because of youMy heart shall beat because of youMy eyes see because of youMy mind thinks because of youAnd I shall love because of you.


Wedding Vow
I love you. You are my best friend.Today I give myself to you in marriage. I promise to encourage and inspire you, to laugh with you, and to comfort you in times of sorrow and struggle. I promise to love you in good times and in bad, when life seems easy and when it seems hard, when our love is simple, and when it is an effort. I promise to cherish you, and to always hold you in highest regardThese things I give to you today, and all the days of our life.

I promise to give you the best of myself and to ask of you no more than you can give. I promise to accept you the way you are.

Wedding Vow
I fell in love with you for the qualities, abilities, and outlook on life that you have,and won't try to reshape you in a different image. I promise to respect you as a person with your own interests, desires, and needs,and to realise that those are sometimes different, but no less important than my own. I promise to keep myself open to you, to let you see through the window of my personal world into my innermost fears and feelings, secrets and dreams. I promise to grow along with you, to be willing to face change as we both changein order to keep our relationship alive and exciting. And finally, I promise to love you in good times and in bad, with all I have to giveand all I feel inside in the only way I know how... completely and forever.




Civil Weddings
Civil Weddings are becoming an increasingly popular choice in Ireland and couples choosing this option can now have their ceremony in the same venue as their reception. Civil weddings need to be applied for three months in advance and of course there are a few legal requirements. Food and drink cannot be served during the ceremony, the venue has to be open to the public and there is to be no religious aspect to the ceremony.

Overseas Weddings
Arranging and planning weddings abroad is becoming much easier as get away weddings become more popular. You can choose beautiful beach locations, tropical gardens or an exotic city. Many couples opt to bring family and friends with them on their special day, but if it just the two of you, witnesses can usually be easy to arrange at the location of your wedding. If you are travelling alone, make sure you have a video taken or loads of photos to share with family and friends back home. If you plan to marry abroad, you must make sure you know and follow the marriage laws in the country in which you intend to marry in. You will probably need documents of who you are and proof that you are free to marry. You may also need to arrange translation of your documents. Travel companies may offer packages of very different quality and service. No couple is the same and the wedding options abroad are wide enough and varied enough for you to have a marriage that is totally unique and personal.


SPRING WEDDINGS AFOOT

The word ‘wedding’ elicits many emotions in the minds of brides, grooms, friends and family. Some smile at the thought of sunny days, beautiful dresses, stylish outfits and perfect surroundings, while others tremble at the thought of how to get through the massive lists of things to be organised for the big day. Uppermost at Bishops Footwear in Coleraine, is the desire to help remove some of the stresses of accessorising the outfits of the wedding party and their friends, and to help everyone relax and enjoy what should be a delightful and memorable occasion.

In the beautiful surroundings of the Italian Dept. in Bishops is displayed one of the largest and most comprehensive collection of ladies footwear to be found anywhere in Ireland. Formal occasion styles from Italy, Spain, Germany and the USA gleam and sparkle invitingly. Metallic leathers, beaded fabrics, perfect patents, cool neutrals and this seasons jazzy brights, high as you dare or comfortably low – there is something ‘wow’ for your particular need.

Brides may choose from a large selection of interesting styles from amazing designers Pedro Garcia and Ramon Tenza, wedding specialist Rainbow, Albano and Marian, all companies creating irresistible feminine shapes in white and ivory but also in silvers and golds and fashion shades to suit bridesmaids.

Mothers of the bride and groom will find a vast selection of glamour from Stuart Weitzman, Gino Vaello, Peter Kaiser, Saatchi and Orlando, usually with matching bags. The extremely helpful members of staff are highly trained, and know the stock well. Bishops is well known for its wide range of sizes and fittings not easily found these days, another bonus. Remind the men that there is a special department for them too!

No small paragraph can fully do justice to the Bishops collections, so you are warmly invited to visit the store, now so easily accessible by ferry, and enjoy the unique footwear experience that is Bishops.
Store open Mon.– Sat. 9:00-5:30. Enquiries. 048 70342465.



PICKING THE FLOWERS

Correctly chosen flowers for the wedding day co-ordinates the whole event. The colours will compliment the brides complexion, wedding dress, bridesmaids dresses and even the colours of the walls at the reception venue. It is common courtesy when booking the church to consult with the Altar Society to let them know your plans for flowers in the church. You’ll find them surprisingly helpful. If you are planning fairly elaborate church decorations, get advance permission, as there may be some unforeseen problem. There is a lot to take into consideration and you will need the help and advice for a professional florist.

How to choose the right florist for your wedding

Word of mouth is always your safest bet. If the florist’s service and work comes highly recommended, chances are they will do a good job for you. Do your research by asking family and friends and checking out websites and trade fairs. Make appointments to visit at least 3 different florists if you don’t choose one right away.
When you visit each florist, look at pictures of their previous work and look around their shop.

Check out a few things:

Do you like the arrangements that you see in the shop’s displays?
Do the flowers in the pictures look fresh or are the petal edges brown?
Are the pictures dated or are they following the current trends?
Is the designer willing to work with you or are they telling you that your idea won’t work? It’s important to work with people who will listen.
Make sure you speak to the florist that will do your arrangements.
Do you feel comfortable with your florist?
Is your florist paying attention to you while you’re talking and do they seem interested?


When To Book Your Florist
6 months before your wedding is a good time to start your search. Book your florist approximately 3 months before your wedding date. You need to have your reception and ceremony sites picked out before you can hire a florist because you’ll need to know how many arrangements you’ll need and that the colours you pick don’t clash with the colours of your venue. You'll also need to know what colour your bridesmaids’ dresses are.

Things To Keep In Mind
If your wedding date is around the time of a flower-giving holiday (mother’s day, valentine’s, etc) you are probably going to pay more for your flowers. This is nothing to do with the florists cashing in, it’s about supply and demand from the growers. The florist will also be very busy during this time and you can’t expect to be the centre of attention and have the same level of personal service compared with quieter times.

Meet and speak to the person that will be making your flower arrangements.

If you choose flowers that are not in season and have to be shipped from across the world, you’re looking at a bigger expense and you don’t know what effect the shipping will cause on your flowers. Check with the florist to see what’s growing closer to home at the date of the wedding.

After the reception, why not arrange to have the flowers delivered to a local hospital or old folks’ home, where they would continue to give joy.

Here is a list of Traditional flowers and their months of beauty.
January - Carnation & Snowdrop

February - Primrose & Violet

March - Jonquil & Daffodil

April - Daisy & Sweet Pea

May - Hawthorn and Lily of the Valley

June - Rose & Honeysuckle

July - Water Lily, Larkspur and Delphinium

August - Gladiolus & Poppy

September - Morning Glory & Aster

October - Calendula & Marigold

November - Chrysanthemum

December - Holly, Narcissus and Poinsettia


More Traditional flowers and what they symbolise
Carnation - Pure deep love

Daisy - Share your feelings

Honeysuckle - Devoted love & fidelity

Hyacinth - Constancy

Iris - Good health

Ivy - Fidelity, friendship, marriage & good luck

Lilac - First emotions of love

Lily - Purity

Lily of the Valley - Return of happiness

Orange Blossom - Fertility & happiness Red Rose - I love you

Wild Rose - Simplicity

Rosemary - Remembrance

Violet - Faithfulness


THE WEDDING CAKE

In all of the wedding cake, hope is the sweetest of plums.Douglas Jerrold

The wedding cake is traditionally both a symbol of celebration and a good luck wish for the future.
A centrepiece and talking point, the wedding cake is also a symbol of the sharing of joy and happiness and as such, is distributed not only to the wedding party and guests, but to loved ones and relations. Especially, for those who could not be present on the day, receiving a little gift of wedding cake helps them to feel part of the celebrations. Nowadays the wedding cake doesn’t have to strictly adhere to the white centrepiece confection so affectionately remembered by many couples. Today the wedding cake can blend in with the colour scheme and style of the wedding. It can be formal, funny or even a bit random….
Many couples take great pleasure in surprising their guests with a cake that can be either fabulously elegant or wonderfully whimsical. Whatever your choice of cake, it is sure to reflect your own style and personality, and as such will be an integral part of your wedding day celebrations.
As far as limits to your dream cake go, there are none… Today’s professionals combine the traditional skills of the confectioner with the most modern technology to enable them to produce creations that range from the deceptively simple to stunning feats of design. Remember to discuss the theme and style of your wedding with your wedding cake specialist. They will help make your dream a reality.



To put your mind at ease, the best light for photographs is when it is overcast and dry. The light is very soft which is great for photos. Sunshine causes as many problems as rain because of the harsh light and glare.

Book your photographer early; the best are usually reserved first.

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHS

Whatever your memories of your wedding day will be, it is wonderful to have them captured for posterity in a photograph album that will become a treasured piece of family history.

Whether you decide to record your formal wedding in an elegant set of portraits, or capture the fun and frolics in a more casual style, your photographs will be the lasting record of the biggest day of your lives.

Couples marrying have a wonderful range of options open to them and there are truly excellent photographers working in Inishowen in the specialist area of wedding photography.

Many photographers are often artists in their own right. Their creative skills and professionalism will help you to relax and enjoy your big day.

Keep in mind that most photographers have their own style, so make sure you see plenty of examples before finalising your decision.

Book your photographer early; the best are usually reserved first.

Here are some questions to ask: What packages are on offer? How many photos does each package include? Are you allowed to keep the “proofs”?Is there a deposit - How much? Can you buy the negatives? What is the cost for extra time or photos?


Photographers have a lot of work to do organising a large crowd and if everything is done professionally then it is like watching a beautifully choreographed ballet where everyone works together.

You will probably be choosing your photographer through word of mouth or local advertising, either way if it is possible, meet up with them first before your big day to discuss your wedding plans in detail. It is important that you work out how much time you want to spend getting your photos taken. Check out locations if they haven’t covered your area of Inishowen before.

Some more tips:

Have a fine weather plan and a plan B if it is raining.

Let your families know when you plan to do the family shots. Normally they are taken in the church or on the church grounds because it is easier when everybody is in the one spot.

Order a few extra flowers for the wedding party just in case some get damaged before the photos.

You should have some basic equipment on standby by for your big day. Large plain coloured umbrellas and a few white towels if the bride wants to sit down on the grass or a bench for a few photos.

If you are going to a location like a beach for a shoot sometimes trainers or boots are a good idea. These will be hidden under the dress. And take an extra jacket. The winds on our beaches can be cold at any time of year.

Make sure your brides-maids know how to tie up the back of your dress, just in case you have to get over a few puddles.



Keep the wedding party happy:
Keeping the wedding party content is key to getting the best wedding group photos. It is important that they are informed of your wedding day plans for photographs in advance. It also helps to ensure that they have plenty of of bottled water, sandwiches, chocolate and maybe some champagne. It will help to keep everybody's spirits up for the photos…..

Don't fret over the small things
Enjoy your day. The more relaxed you are the better your wedding photographs are.
Thrive on the pre-wedding nerves, the hair-dressers, the makeup and the craic when you’re getting ready.Enjoy the time you have in the wedding car. It is probably the only quiet time you will have together. Most couples always say that it is one of the best times of the day and a time to reflect.




Wedding Quotes

When you meet someone who can cook and do housework--don't hesitate a minute--marry him.
Anonymous

To keep your marriage brimming, With love in the wedding cup, Whenever you're wrong, admit it; Whenever you're right, shut up.Ogden Nash
We come to love not by finding the perfect person, but by learning to see an imperfect person perfectly. Sam Keen
There is nothing half so sweet in lifeAs love's young dream.Thomas Moore
When you make a sacrifice in marriage, you're sacrificing not to each other but to unity in a relationship.Joseph Campbell
A happy marriage is a new beginning of life, a new starting point for happiness and usefulness.Dean Stanley
I have spread my dreams beneath your feet;Tread softly because you tread on my dreams.W.B. Yeats
I think men who have a pierced ear are better prepared for marriage. They've experienced pain and bought jewellery. Rita Rudner
By all means marry; if you get a good wife, you'll be happy. If you get a bad one, you'll become a philosopher. Socrates
A husband is like a fire, he goes out when unattended. Evan Esar
My wife dresses to kill. She cooks the same way. Henny Youngman
I love being married. It's so great to find that one special person you want to annoy for the rest of your life. Rita Rudner

Wedding Stories
When we got married, the local priest only just arrived in time to start the wedding service. Every-one was ready so he started. "We are gathered here today to celebrate the marriage of.....of......of.......of......" at this stage he started screwing up his eyes and to try in vain to see our names written on a scrap of paper which he had left on the altar. "Of....of...." he continued....then came a divine flash of inspiration and he settled on "these two young people".

A friend was telling me that he was at a wedding reception where the Best Man in his speech was explaining how the couple met (the Groom and Best Man had been on holiday together)."We saw these two women ... tossed for them .... and he lost". This didn’t go down well at all. No one laughed!

While attending a local pre-marriage weekend, Mary and Michael listened to the facilitator intone, 'It is so very important that husbands and wives know the things that are important to each other.'
He turned to the men and asked, 'Can you each name your wife's favourite flower?' Michael leaned over, touched Mary’s arm gently and whispered, 'Self raising, isn't it?'

Saturday 17 January 2009

5 MINUTES WITH - SEAN MCCARRON


Sean McCarron is originally from Strabane and now lives in Lisfannon with his wife Mary. He works as a tutor at the Letterkenny VEC teaching a subject he is passionate about, the saxophone. He has been in bands since his early days starting with a group called Quarterdeck. Sean is also a session musician with a lot of well known musicians and also plays the saxophone live with five different bands throughout the Northwest and beyond. His life changed dramatically ten years ago when he had a miraculous escape from death after a motorbike accident outside of his house. He survived after being hit by three different cars on the Lisfannon road. He did sustain serious life threatening injuries and nearly every bone in his body was broken. Sean holds the rather unnerving honour of being the only man in Ireland to survive after being hit by three vehicles in succession…. Sean is still keen on motorbikes and has a classic Triumph and an Indian Chief to renovate as well as riding his modern BMW… He also loves the quirky Citroen DS cars from the 1960’s and 70’s and renovates them in his spare time.

What music are you listening to at the moment?
I’m listening to music from the Norwegian saxophonist Jan Garbarek at the moment; he played with the Jazz musician Keith Garrett for a long time. I also enjoy listening to R+B, Blues, Jazz, Funk and classical music. I find in my line of business its good to keep listening to a broad range of music.

What book are you reading?
Ted Simons book, Jupiter’s Travels. It was his first book from 1977 about his four-year journey around the world on a Triumph motorcycle. It was the inspiration for Charley Boorman and Ewan McGregor’s trips. I also have the Belfast travel writer, Geoff Hills book on the go, The Road to Gobblers Knob: From Chile to Alaska on a Motorbike.

What was your favourite childhood game?
I grew up in the troubles in the North so we usually played games such as Cowboys and Indians, anything that involved guns. I didn’t like guns at all - especially when you were on the wrong side of them.

Have you been to the cinema recently, what did you see and was it any good?
I go to the cinema nearly every Sunday. I have two gigs on that day, one in the morning and one later in the evening so I have a window of opportunity. I will watch anything that doesn’t have people singing in it. I don’t care much for operettas and musicals… everything else is fine…

What section of the newspaper do you turn to first?
None…. I tune into the radio. Radio 3-4 or Lyric FM. The news is more up to date. A relation of mine said that the only truth in a paper is on the top right of the front cover….(the price..)

What would you never throw away?
My health. After almost dying tree times I value every day. If anyone asks me how old I am I say either 48, when I was born..10, which is how many years after my accident or 3 which is how long it has been since my heart attack…

Favourite TV programme?
I love travel documentaries. Anything that includes motorised transport is also an added bonus. Michael Palin’s programmes are very good.

What job did you want to do when you were a child?
My dad is a farmer and I wanted to follow in his footsteps. I loved one minute tending to the animals and the next being up to my elbows in oil looking after the tractor

Where was your best holiday and what made it special?
I went to Greece in 1986 for a holiday on invitation from Mary who was working over there teaching with the British Council on a TEFL scheme. I went for two weeks but stayed for two years and did loads of travelling Europe.

What famous people would you invite around for dinner and why?
Michael Parkinson would be the first guest. He has interviewed so many people so it would be like inviting a condensed version of all of his guests as he could talk about them. I would also invite the singer Billie Holliday and the tenor saxophone player Coleman Hawkins.

What do you do for a special treat?
I have just one vice…. Chocolate.

Favourite animal?
A border collie dog called Theira, who was named after the black volcanic sand on the island of Santorini, (it also translates to Gate). It is a bit of a strange name I suppose.

Biggest thrill?
It’s having the time to go where I want to go on a motorbike. I love the smells on a summer’s day when you get when travelling….

Biggest Challenge?
Surviving the accident on the 11th of November 10 years ago and the long road to getting my health back.

What was the best present you ever got?
My Indian Chief motorbike. The company made bikes from the turn of the 20th century and stopped in the 1950’s. My bike is from 1941 and is the only bike that has the throttle on the left hand side handlebars. This was because the police used them and needed to keep their speed up whilst chasing and shooting at criminals.

What was the last thing you bought just for yourself?
A radio for one of my Citroens. It’s an original Autoluz model and only 5 inches wide. I will be sending it away to get the insides brought up to date so they can get FM stations and play MP3’s. Am I being an anorak?

The world’s most irritating/most useful invention?
The television fits both categories. A dichotomy… It’s both educational and irritating

Favourite past-time?
Tinkering in my shed with the cars and bikes.

Which period in history would you most like to have lived through?
The American 1930’s and 40’s. The music from New York was amazing. I was influenced by my uncle who was a radio ham and got programmes called Voice of America and Reel 2 Reel when I was young and stayed up until the early morning listening to Jazz

What do you have for breakfast?
In winter its porridge, tea, toast and marmalade.

What was your first paid job?
I played saxophone at a variety show in Strabane back in 1973. It was my first pay and my first gig….

What is the best/worst piece of advice you have been given?
My mam would say... “Don’t be there ‘till your back and if you fall. Don’t take time to get up, just run on”… I wouldn’t know if that was good or bad advice…

Personal philosophy?
Enjoy what you do but most of all do what you enjoy….

ALI BABA - the panto in Buncrana

























Oh yes they have…. The Buncrana Pantomime Society have, yet again come up with a colourful and entertaining display of local acting talent…. complete with flamboyant costumes and a vibrant set.

Large Cast
The Inishowen Independent managed to get backstage and chat to the producer Willie Doherty to find out exactly just how much work goes in to putting on a show in St Mary’s Hall in Buncrana. The atmosphere was buzzing as the last minute costume and make up preparations were being made. “At any one time there are at least 100 people backstage” Willie explains when I spot him amongst the throng. “The cast consists of 60 adults and 120 children, although not all on the same night.” The Pantomime is directed by Nicola McLaughlin from the town who has graduated this year in speech and drama

Willie Doherty from Buncrana obviously has a passion for the Panto. He has been involved in the pantomime since its beginnings back in 1976 when his brother Neil was the driving force behind the shows. Neil stepped down in 2007 and Willie stepped into his brother’s shoes. This year is the first year Willie has produced the pantomime on his own. Back in May, Willie had to decide on the story for the show. It had been eleven years since Buncrana had put on Ali Baba and he thought it would be a fun one to do. After he made this decision, he had to find music to fit each scene. “Finding appropriate music to add can be a very time consuming job as it’s important to set the right mood,” he explains. Auditions then took place and rehearsals started last September 2008.

It’s ten minutes before curtain up and the seats are nearly all full apart from the queue at the well-stocked sweet counter downstairs in the foyer. All of the children are in costume and waiting patiently. “We have three groups of children and they play either Lizards, Nymphs, Ladybirds, Bees or Sun Fairies.” Willie continues as the cast start to make their way nearer to the stage. “Indirectly there are at least 400 people involved in making this pantomime a reality. We have the orchestra, production team, costume designers and sewing team, ushers, set designers and builders, catering, booking staff, a whole team of unseen volunteers and of course keepers to look after Mabel the Camel when she isn’t working.”

Charity
Does the show make any money? “It does make a profit and all of the money goes back into the local parish. There is a big restoration job at the Cockhill Parish church so hopefully most of it will be used for that.” Willie tells us.

Joking Around
We asked Willie who decides the cutting jokes for the Panto. “That job is left to the two comedians Eunan McConnell (playing Omar) and Eddie Murphy (playing Sharif) They do a lot of ad-libbing and find out before hand who is coming to see the show. It depends if it’s person they can directly joke about or if there are relations in the audience. No-one is safe but thankfully everyone who is mentioned takes it well. Some people even get annoyed if they don’t get a mention, as there is a certain element of notoriety about it. It’s a no holes barred event that changes every day and will include polititians, local business people or anyone who is known well in the community.”
The curtain is about to go up and before he gets too distracted, I ask Willie what he thinks the annual Pantomime brings to the town.


A Ray of Sunshine
“ In this present economic climate and being the darkest time of the year after Christmas, I think it gives people a lift and brings a bit of welcome colour into peoples days. It’s best to put the show on now although we have been known to run past St Patrick’s day, but that’s a bit late.” Willie jokes putting on his microphone to keep in touch with the cast members on stage. The curtain is going up. The audience are clapping and the cast members are all smiling…. It’s going to be a fun night.

Willie reminds us as he walks to the stage “We are already planning next years production…. Watch this space…

Ali Baba started on the 11th of January and goes on until the 31st of January. There are 18 shows all together. Performances start at 8 pm. Matinee performances on Sundays at 3pm. They have a rest on Friday and Sunday nights.

WISDOM OF THE WORLD - WEEK 41


There are no Shortcuts

There was once a man who loved God and spent many hours in prayer and contemplation. One day God appeared before him. The man was overjoyed and sang praises thanking God for appearing. God remained with him for a long time and the man was able to clear up all his doubts and matters of faith. Still God didn’t go anywhere, so the devotee thought he would ask something about heaven.

“Oh Lord,” he enquired, “What is time like in heaven?”

God smiled and replied, “One million years on earth is equal to a minute in heaven.”

The man was astonished and ventured a further question. “Oh Lord, what is the value of currency of heaven?”

“One euro in my realm is worth about a million euros on earth.” God replied with great love.

The man could not believe his ears. He had one final question for God.

“Oh merciful Lord, if that is so, would you please give me one heavenly euro?”

“Sure,” the Lord relied. “Just wait a minute.”


FEELING GOOD AT HOME

“With the cut in interest rates, the savings on your mortgage may be better invested in the home than the bank.”

“Buying curtains, putting up shelves and choosing colours really make your house a home.”




RENOVATINGAND EXTENDING
With the housing market so slow, many people are considering renovating or extending rather than moving. It can be a great solution especially if you are near friends and neighbours and your children are settled. With the cut in interest rates, the savings on your mortgage may be better invested in the home than the bank. Getting renovations or an extension added to your home may be quite stressful when the work is being done, but having the extra space is well worth it when the builders have gone home.

Guide to Planning Permission

If you are considering an extension, you need to do some preparation and planning before any practical work can be started. You will most likely need planning permission so you need to get in touch with the council. Planning permission can take up to three months to come through, or even longer if there are problems. You will need an agent or an architect to draw up the plans and there are forms to be filled in, site notices to be erected and notifications to be placed in the newspaper. When you have your permission, you can start looking for your builder.

Choosing Your Builder
Getting a good builder can make the stress of the work much lighter. Ask friends and family for recommendations and get at least three quotes so that you have a chance to meet the builders and see if you are comfortable with them. See what other jobs they have done and whether the customer is happy with their work. As well as the costs, get an idea of how long the job will take and consider who will be doing the project management.

Fixtures and Fittings
Don’t forget to budget for the fixtures and fittings. Take time to choose your tiles, units, showers and sinks. Look at books, magazines and the Internet for inspiration and of course see what you like in friend’s homes. A good builder should be able to advise you while not imposing personal preferences.

Finishing Touches
There are usually little fiddly jobs (called the snag list) when the builders go home, like a missing switch or a leak of some sort. A good builder will ensure that there is time to come back and make these finishing touches. A company like Knottyboy Wood Finishes can make a real difference at this stage as they can finish the woodwork in the house off to a high standard with their lacquered finishes. Then of course, there is the interior decorating. Buying curtains, putting up shelves and choosing colours really make your house a home.

Renovating a Room
Renovating a room isn’t as big a job as an extension but it can still be an exciting challenge. You might have to get the professionals in if the walls need re-plastering or patterned wallpaper rolls have to be matched up. For most of the work you could try your hand at DIY as it will be a case of using your interior design skills to good effect. You’re old three-piece suite might be a bit threadbare. Have a look at having it re-covered instead of buying a new one. The same goes for furniture, it might be far less costly to re-paint or re-varnish the quality furniture you have instead of rushing out to buy new. Choose the flooring to suit your lifestyle, do you need sumptuous carpets or a practical wooden floor and are the curtains ready for a change? If you don’t want too much upheaval the jobs can be staggered and remember to have fun.


3 WAYS TO ADD VALUE TO YOUR PROPERTY
If you are trying to sell your property in these deflated times, estate agents recommend these three ways to maximise the asking price.

Sleep on it
Adding an extra bedroom, will boosts those vital estate agent’s statistics in a way all buyers understand. The addition of a decent-sized bedroom can significantly increase the price of your property. If you are considering adding another bedroom again to maximize the value added, try to incorporate an en-suite.

Going Through the Roof
A quality attic conversion will take your house can add value, but a poor quality installation will merely be viewed by potential buyers as a problem that may require fixing at considerable expense. Always make sure your attic conversion complies with current building regulations.

Splashing out

The addition of a second bathroom should add value to your property. A modern bathroom will really lift your property. Consider choosing white fixtures as they won’t date and will appeal to a broader range of potential house buyers.



“Kitchen cupboards can be brought back to life with new doors, bedrooms can be made up to date with new wardrobe doors and furniture from around the house can be re-varnished or painted to bring back to life… at a fraction of the cost of buying new.” Shane from Knottyboy Wood Finishes and Coating Specialists.


KNOTTYBOY WOOD FINISHES

There is something very tactile about running your hand over a professionally finished varnished surface like a banister or cupboard door. If you have ever done the job yourself you will realise it takes years of practice to get that smooth quality finish. That is why it pays to get in the specialists.

Shane Deery from Ballybofey started the highly successful Knottyboy Wood Finishes and Coating Specialists in 2002. Shane and his team, based in both Convoy and Ballybofey, specialise in different types of lacquered wood finishes for everything in the home from stairs to furniture and kitchens. They also come in at the final phase of installation in a home to put their professional touch of quality to the finish. Shane himself is a fully qualified French Polisher and worked for Modem Kitchens in the UK as a trainer and foreman before coming home to Ballybofey and setting up his highly successful business.

External Finishes
Knotty Boy is also busy with external finishes on the home. External finishing is becoming very popular. “In the near future there will be grants for people to install wooden window frames as uPVC frames are non bio-degradable. Wood will also be used more for doors and other outdoor features around the house and also shop fronts,” says Shane. “We only use products that have a minimum of 5 year guarantee and can also be used on steel fabricated surfaces.” Shane advises. “All of the products are water based and are well within with the latest European emissions VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) legislation. It’s important to have products in the home that are non-toxic when they are being applied as well as being safe after application

What’s in a name?
You might wonder where the Knottyboy name came from. His son had the idea as it reflected the fact that Shane worked closely with wood. His son is also caricatured on the logo.


Refurbish instead of Replace
Knottyboy are also getting a lot of business from customers who want to refurbish their old and tired furniture. “People are not getting rid of furniture any more which is good for the environment,” says Shane. “Kitchen cupboards can be brought back to life with new doors, bedrooms can be made up to date with new wardrobe doors and furniture from around the house can be re-varnished or painted to bring back to life… at a fraction of the cost of buying new.”

Knottyboy can be contacted on 087 7702878




“Whether you are freshening your house for a potential sale or looking to put your own individual personality into a room, you can use colour to reflect a mood whilst expressing your creativity.”

A SPLASH OF COLOUR
A great way to brighten up a room is to give it a fresh coat of paint. Whether you are freshening your house for a potential sale or looking to put your own individual personality into a room, you can use colour to reflect a mood whilst expressing your creativity. Choosing colours may be daunting as there are so many to choose from. Here is a list of the most popular colours and how they will affect your day.

Blue is associated with calming and soothing. It is said to promote intellectual thought and is believed to keep hunger at bay. Other traits include loyalty, serenity, authority, protection and contemplation. It is also said to prevent nightmares.
Best rooms for use would be bedrooms, bathrooms and studies.

Green is associated with nature and energy. It is calming and restful and is related to security and stability. Often seen as a colour of balance as it is halfway between red and blue.
Best rooms for use are bedrooms and living rooms.

Lilac is associated with spiritual matters. It suggests the misty area between the sky and heaven and is often seen as feminine.
Best rooms for use are bedrooms and bathrooms in order to create a stress-free sanctuary.

Orange is associated with stability and reassurance. It is a warm colour and is thought to aid digestion.
Best rooms for use are living and dining rooms.

Pink is associated with love.
Best rooms for use are bedrooms as it can be peaceful and restful. A hot fuchsia can introduce passion.

Purple is associated with creativity, fertility and joy, but also with magic and sex.
Best rooms for use are bedrooms.

Red is associated with danger, passion, energy, warmth, adventure and optimism.
Best rooms for use are dining rooms as it promotes sociable and lively feelings, and stimulates the appetite.

Yellow is associated with sunshine and energy. It is said to stimulate the intellect.
Best rooms for use are kitchens, dining rooms or north-facing rooms.

Brown is associated with security and stability. It is a very practical colour.
Best rooms for use are living rooms and dining rooms.

Black is associated with death, eccentricity, drama. It's a non-colour that absorbs colour and reflects nothing back…..
Best used in moderation (unless you are an emo teenager).



PAINTING EXTERIOR PEBBLEDASH WALLS
Are you considering painting the exterior of your house. Before you start, inspect the condition of all the surfaces to be painted. Look closely at the exterior walls for any signs of mould. If you see any, mix a solution of 1 part bleach to 6 parts water and apply to affected area. Leave this solution to dry, then using a wire brush remove the debris. If any of the exterior walls have loose or powdery surfaces they need to be cleaned and sealed. Use a primer solution to seal all affected areas as this will act as a stabilizer for your first coat of paint.

Using paint rollers can be the quickest method to cover most exterior surfaces, although you may need to use a brush to cover heavy areas of pebbledash. By attaching an extension handle to your roller you will be able to tackle most of the paint-work from the ground. One method is to start rolling at the top right corner of your first wall, (unless you are left handed and then start at the left side). Now gradually work your way across the wall until completed. Good preparation and attention to detail when applying the paint will mean that you will have a longer time between painting duties….


“Good maintenance of your home costs less in the long term.”



COLD WEATHER CHECK LIST
With winter still here, make sure you are protecting your home against the cold.

Make sure no tap is left dripping.
If that is not possible put a plug in the basin or bath overnight (as drips cause ice to block waste pipes).
Never allow cisterns to over-fill (as water in overflow pipes can freeze, causing the cistern to spill at the sides).
In a long cold spell, open the attic door occasionally to let in warmth from the house.
During cold periods if you have to leave the house for short periods, keep the central heating turned on, turned down to the minimum. For long periods, drain the plumbing system by closing the main stopcock and opening all the taps.


DAMP PATCHES
Your home, like many homes, will have areas that are colder than others and damp patches can form. It might be a simple case of lack of air and condensation. If this is the case, an open window will probably solve the issue. Sometimes, however it is a bit more complicated than that. Here are some causes of damp that if left unchecked could lead to problems.

If your home is newly built it may be damp because the water used during its construction (for example, in plaster) is still drying out.
Look out for leaking plumbing, central heating pipes, wastes or overflows.
Does rain seep through the roof where a tile or slate is broken or missing? This can cause problems and you might not even be aware of it.
Over flow spilling from a blocked gutter, broken gutters or down pipes.
Rain penetrating from around the window or door frames.
Rising damp is due to a defective damp-course or haviong no damp-course. Rising damp usually appears in rooms at ground floor level, and will rise in the walls only to a height of around 1m.

These types of dampness often leave a visual watermark. Being aware of a problem is the first step, getting it seen to as soon as possible is the next. Problems will only get worse if they aren’t dealt with. Contact your local tradesperson if you need advice. If your home is damp for any of these reasons it may take weeks of heating and ventilation to dry out, but good maintenance of your home costs less in the long term.

BLEEDIN’ RADIATORS

Why is it sometimes necessary to constantly bleed radiators?
Constantly venting a radiator is necessary to eliminate air or occasionally hydrogen gas. Both can cause the radiator to become cold. It is usually assumed the problem is due to air but often it's because of the formation of hydrogen gas resulting from electrolytic corrosion, the evidence of which is a black sludge deposit in the system, including radiators. Black sludge can be dealt with by dosing the system with a suitable de-sludging agent. Your local supplier will advise on the amount to put into the system and if you are in any doubt get in a professional.

Brand-new systems will always initially give up lots of air, which collect in radiators and will usually need to be vented a great deal for the first few weeks.



Moving or staying put in your own house? It makes no difference as you will still have to do the cleaning….. What a relaxing thought….


SPRING CLEANING
After having the windows tightly closed to keep in the heat, your house will be in need of a good clean and airing. Letting fresh air circulate is great for the house and might put you in the mood for some spring cleaning. Deep cleaning each spring gets rid of dust and dirt that has accumulated throughout the winter months and helps keep your home and family healthy. The idea is to remove more embedded dirt, dust and contaminants than you do during your regular maintenance cleaning.

Clean carpets. Regular carpet cleaning helps maintain the life of your carpet and can improve indoor air quality, which in turn decreases the likelihood of allergy and asthma symptoms. If you do not own a carpet cleaner, look at renting a machine or hiring a professional.

Wash windows. Regular cleaning of your windows, inside and out is a necessary part of keeping our home looking shiny and clean. Sparkling clean windows are a wonderful way to view the outside world. Never clean your windows while they are in direct sunlight. Your cleaning solution will dry too fast, which causes streaks as the cleaning solution dries before you can wipe it off. The best time to clean windows is on a cloudy, dry day.

Wash linens. Wash bedding, curtains and shower liners according to fabric
instructions.

Vacuum mattresses. Dust and dust mites build up in your mattress so vacuum your mattress using the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner. This draws air through the mattress and unsettles dust and dirt.

Clean light fittings. Turn off your light then remove the light bulbs and light casing.

Clean waste paper baskets. Empty all rubbish containers. Clean and disinfect inside and out with warm, soapy water and an environmentally friendly disinfectant.

Clean the cooker hood. To release trapped grease and odours, wash the range hood and fan with warm water and vinegar then rinse well. Remove the metal filter, soak in warm water, vinegar and a few drops of washing up liquid and then rinse well before replacing.

Clean cupboards and drawers. Vacuum up crumbs, dust and hair and wipe clean.
Wash the bottom and inside of each drawer and cupboard using a solution of two
tablespoons vinegar into a few litres of water and wipe dry.


Organise cupboards. Reorganise cupboards around the house, removing items that you have ‘slightly’ outgrown or have not worn in the past two years. Check all expiration dates on medications and remove old lotions, shampoos or cosmetics.

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