Shoe Repairs And Several Other Things When I Was 7

Shoe Repairs And Several Other Things When I Was 7
My Dad repaired most of our shoes believe it or not, I can hardly believe it myself now. With 7 pairs of shoes always needing repairs I think he was quite clever to learn how to “Keep us in shoe Leather” to coin a phrase!

He bought several different sizes of cast iron cobbler’s “lasts”. Last, the old English “Laest” meaning footprint. Lasts were holding devices shaped like a human foot. I have no idea where he would have bought the shoe leather. Only that it was a beautiful creamy, shiny colour and the smell was lovely.

But I do remember our shoes turned upside down on and fitted into these lasts, my Dad cutting the leather around the shape of the shoe, and then hammering nails, into the leather shape. Sometimes we’d feel one or 2 of those nails poking through the insides of our shoes, but our dad always fixed it.

Hiking and Swimming Galas
Dad was a very outdoorsy type, unlike my mother, who was probably too busy indoors. She also enjoyed the peace and quiet when he took us off for the day!

Anyway, he often took us hiking in the mountains where we’d have a picnic of sandwiches and flasks of tea. And more often than not we went by steam train.

We loved poking our heads out of the window until our eyes hurt like mad from a blast of soot blowing back from the engine. But sore, bloodshot eyes never dampened our enthusiasm.

Dad was an avid swimmer and water polo player, and he used to take us to swimming galas, as they were called back then. He often took part in these galas. And again we always travelled by steam train.

Rowing Over To Ireland’s Eye
That’s what we did back then, we had to go by rowboat, the only way to get to Ireland’s eye, which is 15 minutes from mainland Howth. From there we could see Malahide, Lambay Island and Howth Head of course. These days you can take a Round Trip Cruise on a small cruise ship!

But we thoroughly enjoyed rowing and once there we couldn’t wait to climb the rocks, and have a swim. We picnicked and watched the friendly seals doing their thing and showing off.

Not to mention all kinds of birdlife including the Puffin.The Martello Tower was also interesting but a bit dangerous to attempt entering. I’m getting lost in the past as I write, and have to drag myself back to the present.

Fun Outings with The camera Club
Dad was also a very keen amateur photographer, and was a member of a camera Club. There were many Sunday photography outings and along with us came other kids of the members of the club.

And we always had great fun while the adults busied themselves taking photos of everything and anything, it seemed to us. Dad was so serious about his photography that he set up a dark room where he developed and printed his photographs.

All black and white at the time. He and his camera club entered many of their favourites in exhibitions throughout Europe. I’m quite proud to say that many cups and medals were won by Dad. They have been shared amongst all his grandchildren which I find quite special.

He liked taking portraits of us kids too, mostly when we were in a state of untidiness, usually during play. Dad always preferred the natural look of messy hair and clothes in the photos of his children.

Instructions How to Start a General Contractor Business

Instructions how to start a general contractor business

Hi I’m David from DYM Builders, a general contractor operating in Los Angeles, Orange County and Dallas. As an experienced general contractor, I always get questions from people who want to start their own construction businesses. It is important to understand the challenges that come with starting a company in the current economy. However, with the right approach and a solid business plan, anyone can succeed in this industry. In this article, I will provide you with the best instructions on how to start a general contractor business.

First and foremost, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of the role of a general contractor. A general contractor is responsible for overseeing and coordinating all aspects of a construction project, from planning and design to construction and completion. This involves managing budgets, timelines, and subcontractors, as well as ensuring that all work is completed to the highest standards of quality.

To start a successful general contractor business, you’ll need to begin by establishing a strong foundation. This includes obtaining any necessary licenses and permits, securing insurance coverage, and setting up a legal structure for your business. You’ll also need to develop a clear business plan that outlines your goals, target market, and strategies for growth.

Upon completion of the business, start working with clients, start small and grow.

Once you’ve established your business, it’s important to focus on building a strong reputation in the industry. This involves delivering high-quality work and providing exceptional customer service to your clients. You should also strive to build strong relationships with subcontractors and suppliers, as they will be an essential part of your success as a general contractor.

Another important aspect of starting a general contractor business is developing effective marketing strategies. This involves identifying your target market and developing a strong brand identity that resonates with your customers. You should also consider using online marketing tactics, such as online ad campaigns, search engine optimization (SEO) and social media marketing, to reach a wider audience and generate more leads for your business.

In conclusion, starting a general contractor business requires careful planning, hard work, and dedication. By following these instructions and staying focused on your goals, you can establish a successful and profitable construction company that will thrive for years to come. As a general contractor, it’s important to always prioritize quality, professionalism, and customer satisfaction in everything you do. Good luck!

10 Daily Habits That Can Improve Your Oral Health

Taking care of your teeth and gums is an important component of maintaining your general health and well-being. Cavities, gum disease, and poor odor are just a few of the dental issues that good oral care can help you avoid. It is critical to practice excellent oral hygiene practices on a daily basis to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Here are ten daily habits that can improve your oral health.

1. Brush twice a day
Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time to ensure that you are cleaning all areas of your teeth. Use toothpaste that contains fluoride to reinforce your dental enamel and prevent the development of cavities.

2. Floss daily
Flossing is necessary to eliminate plaque and pieces of food from between your teeth and along your gum line. If you find traditional floss tough to use, consider interdental brushes or water flossers as an option.

3. Use mouthwash
Mouthwash can help to freshen your breath and decrease the number of bacteria in your mouth. It is recommended to use mouthwash after brushing and flossing to ensure that it reaches every area of your mouth. To help avoid caries, look for a fluoride-containing mouthwash.

4. Drink water
Water is beneficial not only to your general health but also to your dental health. Water helps rinse your teeth and clear away food particles and bacteria that can cause cavities and gum disease. If you are unable to clean your teeth after eating or drinking, drinking water can help to neutralize acids in your mouth.

5. Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks
Sugary and acidic meals and beverages can erode the enamel on your teeth, causing cavities and pain. Limit your intake of these foods and drinks in favor of healthier alternatives such as vegetables and fruits.

6. Chew sugar-free gum
Chewing sugar-free gum after meals can help to boost saliva production, which serves to wash away leftovers and reduce acids in the oral cavity. Xylitol is a natural sweetener found in some sugar-free gums that can help avoid cavities by decreasing the number of bacteria that live in the mouth.

7. Replace your toothbrush regularly
Toothbrushes can become old and frayed over time, making them less successful in cleaning your teeth. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the brushes become frayed or if you have been sick to avoid reinfection.

8. Use a tongue scraper
Bacteria can build up on your tongue, causing poor odor and other dental issues. Using a tongue scraper to eliminate bacteria can help improve your general dental health. Tongue scrapers are available at most drugstores and online.

9. Visit your dentist regularly
Regular dentist exams and cleanings are necessary for excellent oral health. Your dentist can perform an oral exam, identify any issues, and offer treatment options to stop further damage. They may also clean your teeth to eliminate plaque and tartar, which can cause cavities and gum disease.

10. Quit smoking
Smoking is not only bad for your general health, but it is also bad for the condition of your teeth and gums. It may result in mouth cancer, poor odor, gum disease, and teeth discoloration. Quitting smoking can improve your general health and lower your chances of developing oral health problems. Your dentist can help you quit smoking by providing resources and assistance.

The bottom line
Maintaining good oral care practices on a daily basis can keep your teeth and gums in good condition and help you avoid a number of dental issues. By incorporating the aforementioned habits into your daily routine, you can enjoy a healthy smile for years to come.

Author’s Bio:
I am Amelia Grant, journalist, and blogger. I think that information is a great force that is able to change people’s lives for the better. That is why I feel a strong intention to share useful and important things about health self-care, wellness and other advice that may be helpful for people. Being an enthusiast of a healthy lifestyle that keeps improving my life, I wish the same for everyone.

Our attention to ourselves, to our daily routine and habits, is very important. Things that may seem insignificant, are pieces of a big puzzle called life. I want to encourage people to be more attentive to their well-being, improve every little item of it and become healthier, happier, stronger. All of us deserve that. And I really hope that my work helps to make the world better.