NEWSLETTER APRIL 8, 2011

Getting ready to start wearing all your bright spring and summer colors, but worried about keeping them looking new? Washing your clothes in cold water can help preserve the colors, and gets your clothes just as clean as washing in warm or hot water. Did you know that some stains can even become set in when using warmer temperatures? Hot water can also shrink some of the more delicate and synthetic fabrics.

If you're worried about getting your gym clothes really clean, look for cold-water specific detergents. These help break down protein stains (blood, sweat, etc.) and get our clothes clean. Regular clothing will work fine with just regular detergent.

Not only will washing in cold water preserve bright colors, it prevents your reds from bleeding and even saves energy and money. If you're worried about getting a specific stain out, look at the inside of your washer lid. Most new washers give tips right on the machine itself!

Chale A woman I met recently said her amythest stone on her desk doesn't seem to be working lately. I asked her "When was the last time you cleaned it?" "Cleaned it?" she questioned. "Yes, you need to clean or charge your gem stones." The following are easy ways to do this - (1) Rinse in a river, lake, or body of water you enjoy. (2) Let them bask in the sun or quietly receive the energies from a moon beam. The full moon is best and will be here on April 18th. A bath in salt water does the trick too!

Jill Bates News A must see website: www.cleanmomma.com. Make the most out of your time. Improve your body, declutter your home, and find your "me" time!

NEWSLETTER FEBRUARY 17, 2011

MEN AND FASHION

John Updike once compared the male body to a bank account: as long as it's healthy, a man doesn't think much about it.

For men, more than ever, looks count. In Vogue and Men's Health alike, modern-day Adonises sell everything from protein powder to Armani cologne. One simple way to keep your look up to par is to care for your neckties. Like it or not, if you’re a man, you will wear a tie at some point in your life. And if you have children, you will probably receive one as a present – they are THE Father’s Day gift.

Here are some **tips to help you care for your ties whether you wear them every day or once a year:

• Let water spots on silk ties dry and then rub it briskly with the same fabric.
• When ironing ties, make certain the roll along the tie edge is not pressed flat. If possible, use a steamer instead of an iron. You can purchase a hand held steamer for about $29.99.
• Always hang your ties on a rack except knitted or crochet ties, which should be rolled and stored in a drawer. This will keep them from getting wrinkled.
• Give your ties at least two to three days of rest before wearing them again, to allow wrinkles to hang out.
• Do not unravel the knot by pulling on the small end. Always reverse the knot itself.

Following these simple tips will help make your ties last longer.

**Tips from The Neckwear Association of America

NEWSLETTER JANUARY 26, 2011

Looking for a new way to stay trendy, while also keeping warm, as we drop to subzero temperatures this winter? One cold weather accessory you should pick up is a trapper hat. Never heard of it? Chances are, you probably have seen them around. This season, retailers all over have started selling trapper hats in different colors, patterns and different variations. Men and women both have several options to choose from when it comes to these accessories. So next time you bundle up to go outside, don’t forget your trapper hat!

Renewal, Gratitude, Change

From my deck: Dec 2010

From my deck: Oct 2010

December 2, 2010 Blog- Early this past fall- 2010- I decided to start my New Year in September instead of January. Kids heading back to school and the first day of autumn starting September 22^nd, inspired me. It is a time of year that feels much more like a fresh start.

In September I become energized and just love the fact that Fall is so beautiful and reminds us that the quiet winter months are just ahead. It reminds us that this time of year is a great time to get organized and make room for change. It allows us to clear out and put away all the summer season items.

Here it is December and if you look out your window you can confirm that the quiet winter months are upon us here in Western New York. September seems like a time for renewal, December is a time to be grateful. It is a time to show your gratitude. I tend to put my studio back in order this time of year as the fast-paced bridal season has wound down. I am grateful for all the clients that came to me and allowed me to help them prepare for their special day, their daughter’s special day, or a friend’s special day.

Recently, I decided to give my business a new look. What is it about change that has some embracing it and others running in the opposite direction? It is a natural occurence, you see it in nature from one season change to the next. Nature seems to be able to change with little or no effort.

I don’t know yet all the changes that are in store for my business, but I’m excited by the possibilities. If you seek out the help you need, you can make a change happen with little or no effort. I am working with a team of experts to make my change fun and exciting.

I will keep you posted on my journey and hope you’ll share yours with me, too.

Running Season

It’s running season. This past weekend – Saturday May 22 – I participated in a duathlon at Mendon Ponds Park. A duathlon consist of a running leg, followed by a cycling leg, and then another running leg. I did the 2 mile run, 10 mile bike, and 1 mile run. The running was trail running; much nicer than running on hard pavement. This duathlon was also the first time I rode a bike competitively. I WON FIRST PLACE in my age group! What a great feeling.

My trainer, friend, and inspiration Elizabeth did the Formula 1 duathlon taking place at the same time. Her competition was a 2 mile run, 10 mile bike, 1 mile run, 10 mile bike, 2 mile run. She came in third in her age group. Elizabeth is amazing!

On Sunday, I ran in the Lilac Festival 5k. I ran with my sister. We just missed third place in the sister/sister category. Another great day with wonderful family and friends. And, of course the opportunity to enjoy the sights and sounds of Rochester.

~ Jill

Mother's Day

Yesterday was Mother’s Day, and I started my day participating in the Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester’s Pink Ribbon Run and Walk at Lake Ontario Park. It is an annual event, held every Mother’s Day to honor those who have been touched by a diagnosis of breast cancer. This year’s race netted about $145,000.

Sunday was my first 5k of the season. I ran with a group of 10 friends; some new runners and some getting back into running. I ran with my daughter. It was a cold, cold day; and very windy. Of course, after the race our group celebrated with champagne. Then we all headed home and took hot baths to warm up!

~ Jill

Spring Has Sprung!

This is a great time of year for high school juniors and seniors. It is a time of proms, and senior and junior balls. It is fun for me, as I get to see my son and his friends dress up, go out-on-the-town, and celebrate wonderful friendships. It’s really neat to see the young people dressed up. I’m used to seeing them in sports paraphernalia.

These events are good for the community. The students support local businesses, whether it is clothing, eateries, car rentals, floral, and on-and-on. Over the years, some things have changed, but some things have remained the same. One neat thing my son and his friends did for transportation was take the school bus to the prom. The school principal even went along for the ride! The school bus driver was thrilled to be part of the event. I think it’s great that the students included their principal. What wonderful memories!