Just My Opinion......About The Arizona Illegal Immigrant Law

Today I was reading the news online....you know, just to make sure the world wasn't about to blow up or something and kept coming across the same subject. Arizona's tough illegal immigrant law. Not being a fan of politics for reasons I won't go into here, I decided to research the subject to see what the ruckus was all about.

What I discovered was that Arizona recently passed a new law that enables police to arrest “day workers” and heavily penalize those who hire them. For my friends in other countries, “day workers” are people who have entered the US illegally and are attempting to obtain work for the day. They usually stand on the street corners, most of the time in groups, waiting for an employer who will hire them for whatever job they need, but do not wish to pay fair wages. So they hire these illegal immigrants at slave's wages. This is an illegal activity that the US government has dragged their feet in helping to eliminate for decades. This drives an underground economy that takes fair work away from our citizens, and allows employers to bypass laws. In addition, many illegal immigrants have been here so long, that they have had children and grandchildren who are legal citizens. These children are now entitled to government assistance in the form of housing, food, money and education. Since our government has limited resources, this has caused a financial strain in an already strained system.

This new law will enable law enforcement to check for proper identification when performing their duties among other details. It will also heavily penalize employers who hire these illegal immigrants. This law is to take effect this summer.

Personally I don't see what the big deal is. It's illegal to be in the US without proper paperwork....just like in any other country...this law only enforces it. These people who are illegal already know they're here illegally. They took the chance, risked arrest and deportation when they came over. I do not understand their feeling of entitlement. While I think the circumstances from which they came from may be horrible, that does not mean that it's okay to break laws and then demand the same rights as those of us who were born in the US. Arizona has simply picked up the ball that the federal government dropped.

Some people have complained that this law will spark racial profiling. Personally who really cares? I will proudly show my identification and that of my children to any law enforcement person if asked for. I mean that's what “identification” is....hellooooo! It's required pretty much everywhere in the world so why should it be different here? I'm not saying to be bullied or anything, but if I'm getting stopped for a headlight out or speeding, I would not be the least bit offended if they asked all the people in my car to provide identification.

I'm not saying to close the borders for crying out loud, just go through the proper channels like everyone is supposed to. Unfortunately so many people have turned the other way when illegal immigration was a little problem that now it's become a major problem. And illegal immigrants know that the system is faulted and painfully slow. They know that if they have a kid or two that the US won't know how to deal with it and so just look the other way. And it also seems that as long as it didn't hurt anyone that they knew (they being the people who had the power to stop it then) they didn't care about whether or not it would hurt all of us in the long run. Now that we're in a recession and we're all affected, now it's a huge problem. With so many Americans out of work, losing their homes and turning to the government for assistance, everyone's running around in a panic like it's the first time they're heard about it. WTH?

Wake up people! Now don't get stupid and start hating, just understand that there ARE a few leaders who are willing to do what they can to finally deal with this even though the US government is humming and hawing over this. Support them. They're looking out for us, our jobs and our children so why not say thanks? They're taking a stand when others won't. That takes guts. Just support them. And if someone disagrees, who cares? It's okay for people to disagree, but it's not okay to hate, it's not okay to turn it into a racial issue and it's not okay to break the law.......

I don't claim to have all the answers....but I do believe that with so many different people with so many viewpoints, real solutions can be created. Maybe not perfect solutions, but tolerable by most...there will always be those who have an all or nothing attitude...there will always be those who can only see things their way and unfortunately, they usually have the loudest voices.....but there HAS to be a way....cause doing nothing is the worst thing anyone can do and so far that hasn't worked has it? Cause now it's all a huge mess.......

And just in case you want to know exactly what the new law says....

http://www.russellpearce.com/
Under the "legislation" tab simply select the bill....read it for yourself.

I'm adding some random non-related pics....just because
Namaste & God Bless
Angelica

Hairstyle Trend Spring & Summer 2010: The Boho Braid

This summer the latest rage for hair is the Boho braid. It's a fresh and casual braid (or two) that wraps around the head and can be worked to leave the ends free and tousled, pinned or made into a bun. The key is to have the hair look just a little free and not too structured. This style works best for medium length to long hair because the hair needs to be pulled all the way from one side of the head and worked into the braid. I also think it's even better for ladies with multi colored hair because the style really shows off all the dimensions of color. The braid is worked somewhat loosely, in a similar manner as that of a French braid. The braid can be worked alone and on the side of the head, using hair from the entire head or made from two braids and worked along the sides. I have also seen smaller versions that are worked along the hairline from one side to the other with the rest of the hair left loose. The result is similar to that of a headband. You can also try working it as a twist instead of a braid. There really is no limit as to how to wear a Boho braid. Just be sure to keep a few key points in mind.

• Work from one side to the other.

• Do not work the braid too tightly. The look is deliberately casual.

• Spray your hairbrush thoroughly before beginning. Brush through and work just before the spray sets. This gives the hair more manageability.

• This is one of those hairstyles that will take you from day to evening with little effort or touch up.

• The Boho Braid is easy to do and stays in place fairly well.

• The variety of this hairstyle lets you obtain several different looks while still keeping the same haircut.

• This hairstyle is suitable for any age....literally!

Have fun!Try a few different variations to see which works best for your personal style. It works especially well with front layering and even can be worn with bangs. I'm attaching some pics so you can see a few different variations. Enjoy!

Namaste & God Bless,

Angelica

Interior Design Trends For Spring & Summer 2010

Spring is here! And what better way to welcome Spring than to redecorate? If you haven't already done so, put away those bulky winter furnishings and bring in the fresh, light and soothing look of this year's trends. Here are just a few must haves.

The color palate is softer and even more soothing than last year. Lavender is very popular as are other cool tones such as gray and various muted blues. Adding silver or pewter elements such as vases, tables, curtain rods or even curtains allows light to reflect. This lightens up the room.. Painting wood in metallic finishes such as crown molding is another way to freshen up and add a bit of whimsical glamor as well. How much you add is up to you!

Spicy and cultural colors are also popular this year. Only instead of the browns and rusts, the trend leans a bit towards shades of oranges, deep reds, and yellows. Touches of teals and muted blues are also popular. These colors are great for just about every room. With summer just about here, these colors are great for the patio or outdoor room.

If a more natural look is your style, try shades of cream, beiges and tans. Monochromatic themes are very soothing and calming, creating a relaxing space. Adding textures in similar colors creates interest and keep the space visually interesting. Doing this prevents the space from becoming boring or sterile.

Speaking of textures, adding textures is also big this years. The difference is that instead of filling the room with them, try adding just one strong piece or a couple complimentary pieces. Adding too many textural elements makes a room appear heavy. This is Spring! Keep it light.

Implementing earth friendly elements started out as a trend but is quickly becoming the standard. Whether it's using eco friendly paints, reused furnishings or recycled materials, being green is easier than ever. Try taking mis matched tables and painting them the same color to create uniformity. Slip cover a sofa or chair to give a room a whole new fresh look. There are many ways to decorate beautifully and still do your part in preserving the planet.

This year, decorating is about creating a serene and calming atmosphere. It's easy to do and takes so little time. In today's hectic world, it's just what's needed.

Be Sexy!!

What is it about women and shoes? Who's to say? Sure I could just get all technical and talk about what the latest study says but who really cares? And it doesn't matter if the woman is wealthy or on welfare, I've known women who would shop at a thrift store to build their selection of shoes. Personally I think that's gross. But the point is that it doesn't matter what a woman's budget is, it's all about collecting the shoes.

My personal favorites are high heels. 4 to 5 inches are what work for me. It doesn't matter if I'm grocery shopping, running errands, wearing jeans or what, but I just looooove my high heels. But there are also ladies who enjoy filling their closets with flats and lower heeled shoes. And well yes there are times when a flat is needed say...when going to the beach (flip flops/sandals). But for me, the majority of my closet is filled with heels. They make me feel ultra feminine, they make my legs look super sexy, and I walk a bit taller and more confident. I like the natural swing of the hips that happens when I walk in them.

Besides, most men love them. Have you ever known a man to tell you how sexy your running shoes are? Hmmmm....? So if your motive is to turn heads without dressing like a ho, it's all about the heels. Are they uncomfortable? Well of course! But who ever said being/looking/feeling sexy is about comfort? If you want comfort, order from the Blair catalog. If you want sexy, slip into those heels.

For me, I prefer to have a mixture of expensive heels and cheapies. The cheapies I can wear when it's raining out or every day. The designer heels are for those special nights...oooh la la! Or for when I'm feeling down and need to feel pampered. I just take my depressed butt down to Darlene (my nail tech/pedicurist who I think deserves her own Hollywood star), get my toes pampered and slip on a pair of Michael Kors or Louboutins and I feel soooo much better! It's an alternative to ½ gallon of ice cream or therapy. Who knows? A closet full of sexy shoes in every woman's closet just may put the Prozac people out of business!

As usual, here are some of my favorite pics......=)

Namaste & God Bless,
Angelica

Decorating On A Budget.......

I don't know about you, but it seems that the more chaotic my life is, the more I want to decorate. Perhaps it's because I want to maintain a sense of order in the midst of uncertainty. Perhaps it's because it's one thing that I can control. Regardless of the reasons, decorating can be fun as well as therapeutic. But with the economy in a full recession, sometimes is may not be possible to spend thousands or even hundreds to redecorate your home. But since I'm so cheap, I thought I'd share some tips that I use to still satisfy your decorating itch without breaking the bank.

The first and least expensive way to give the most dramatic change is to paint one or more walls of a room. One gallon of paint can transform an entire room instantly. The supplies needed to paint a room are also very inexpensive. Forget purchasing the most expensive tapes, trays brushes and rollers. While the quality may indeed be a little better, we're talking about saving money. So if you're on a super tight budget, you may have to end up picking a few bristles out of the paint, or spend a little more time getting the tape off, but hey, this is about being cheap! Yeah it takes a little more time and effort, but you can still get excellent results.

Speaking of painting, a great way to get all those garage sale finds to match is to paint them all the same color. The eye will see uniformity before noticing that your end tables don't match or that all your dining room chairs are different. Supplies are very inexpensive.

To add a fresh new look, try adding a pop of color. Sometimes items such as accent pillows, throws or vases can add just enough color to make a dreary room fresh and exciting. These items can be found in clearance bins or thrift stores. The best way to get the look you want is to plan it out first then hold out till you have an entire collection of necessary items. For instance, let's say you want to add a punch of purple. Throw pillows may be found in the clearance section in one store, and a vase or valance may be found at a thrift store and a throw rug may be found at a garage sale. If you're particularly crafty, check out a discount fabric store and make it all yourself. You can just make a cover to fit over existing throw pillows.

A cool free way to change up a room is to rearrange the furniture. Only this time, swap out furniture from other rooms such as end tables or lamps. Try regrouping the pictures or pull all the collectibles into one area to make a theme. Rearrange books and add small odds and ends to create a completely new look.

Another inexpensive way to freshen up drab furniture is to add slipcovers. They come in a myriad of colors and many are machine washable. I recommend choosing a solid color. This way if you want to change color schemes again, all you have to do it change accents. For instance, beige can be accented with red, brown, navy blue or plum.

Adding plants is another great way to bring color to a room. They also add an element of calmness and serenity. I try to have on in every corner when possible. They really do add an element of earth and growth. With spring here try adding fresh flowers.

These are just some of the ideas that can add a bit of freshness to a room or even an entire home. They're so inexpensive, you may be able to to them all and have an entire new room or home! Enjoy!

Small Space Decorating

When my husband (then boyfriend) asked me, my two children and my dogs to move in with him I was a bit apprehensive. Not only because this took our relationship to a new level, but also because my rental house was 2000 sf. His house was already crammed with his own stuff.....all 800 sf of it. You know, I never thought I would really have use for the word “quandary” but this was a perfect time to use it. Yes, I found myself in a quandary. What would I do with everything? What I learned were some key points to merging two households. And I also learned some key points to decorating a small house.

FURNITURE: I found that low furniture gives the appearance of added space. If you like modern or retro looks, this would be perfect for you. I actually prefer low furniture because I am fairly short. It just seems to fit me better. Also, try to select a sofa that is on legs. There is something about allowing air to freely circulate that make a room feel bigger than it actually is.

CLEAN LINES: If you're looking to create an illusion of more space, try keeping everything simple. Avoid floral or patterned fabrics over large surfaces such as furniture or draperies. Try lining up pictures or arranging a few items neatly instead of displaying every knick knack ever given to you. I mean really, is it necessary to display your grown childrens' kindergarten clay ashtrays?

GLASS: Glass top coffee and end tables are a great way to give the illusion of more space. The eye is drawn to other parts of the décor rather than to the tables. A simple yet elegant candle garden on rocks or clear marbles placed on the table appear to float.

STORAGE: If removing clutter due to the lack of storage is an issue, fold a couple blankets and stuff pillow shams with them. Or put linens in trunks at the end of the bed. Trunks can also be used as coffee tables if needed. These are great for storing extra pillows, towels and those knick knacks you're putting away! Underbed storage bins are also wonderful for tucking away winter clothing, Christmas decorations, year round gift wrap and more.

LIGHT: Light is very important in making a room appear larger. To maximize the use of light, try placing a large mirror in the room. Just don't place it opposite an entry door. Some believe this creates a bad energy in the room. Another way to enhance natural lighting, is to minimize the use of heavy draperies. Blinds with valances are great, sheer panels are also very nice and create a soft light throughout the room.

COLOR: Paint is one of the least expensive ways to add dramatic change to a room, yet it can make a small room appear tiny. Instead of painting the entire room, try painting a focal wall with a color. Perhaps a wall that has a fireplace on it. Sprinkle matching accessories around the room like a couple of accent pillows, vases or candles.

SEATING: If you entertain in a small home fear not! Stick to one sofa and use upholstered chairs for extra seating. Not recliners, they're too big and bulky. Upholstered ottomans are also great for an extra seat as well as storage. It is not recommended in small rooms to have both a sofa and loveseat. They take up too much space and give a cramped feel to the room.

Going from a spacious home to a very small home can be an adjustment, but with a little creativity, you'll find that it cozy doesn't have to mean cramped. You'll also find out that it takes a lot less time to clean!

Namaste & God Bless
Angelica

Still Remodeling But It's Coming Along!

When I was a kitchen designer, I came across clients who would talk about how they couldn't wait to have the remodeling process over. It seemed that someone forgot to tell them that remodeling is a lengthy process from idea to completion. Some customers claimed remodeling is sort of a hobby and doesn't really have an ending. As projects are completed, more are thought of and so the perpetual list of remodeling becomes a way of life. I thought “oh those poor people! I could NEVER live like that....” Uh huh well never say never. It wasn't a big surprise when my husband (then boyfriend) invited me, my two teens and two dogs to move in with him while he was still in the middle of remodeling. I had a good idea of what to expect. And with my 2000 sf home's furnishings somehow squeezed into 800 sf, I knew progress would be greatly slowed.

Here we are today and the progress is indeed slow. Yet through it all, I am learning to celebrate the little victories of even the smallest project being completed. I was thrilled when the new toilet was installed. That was a remodeling nightmare! The tank had cracked and because the toilet was so old, we made countless trips the the home improvement store trying to just purchase a tank that would fit on outdated bowl. When we finally did find one, it did not hold enough water to flush adequately. And so we had to used jugs of water to flush. Ahhh! After a nightmarish week of trial and error, we ended up replacing the entire toilet, hoses and everything that goes along with it. We found out a month later to our pleasant surprise that our water bill had been cut from $90 per month to $20!

Another celebration was when the washer and dryer were finally hooked back up. They had been disconnected and moved because the the flooring was still being stained and sealed. Then there was an agonizing week and a half of curing. We never realized just how much we appreciated our washer and dryer until we had to hang dry our clothes on the deck railing outside.

And so the stories go on. With the house being approximately 75% completed, I thought it was about time to share some before and after pics with you. My husband has done all the work himself with the exception of the ceiling.

Living in a home that's being remodeled is teaching me there are certain things that you just have to learn to live with. I have learned that drywall dust somehow shows up on EVERYTHING regardless how many times you wipe, clean, sweep and vacuum. I've become accustomed to having a circular saw in the living room. I learned that a curtain in place of a pantry door will just have to do until he gets around to custom building the odd sized door for it. I've learned that it's more important to be around my family than to be around a perfectly decorated home. But we do our best to make it homey anyway.