We are taking The Professional Housekeeper Training Seminar to major cities. New York was a great success as we received feedback indicating how helpful it was to so many. Domestic workers rarely get an opportunity to convene and discuss issues on the job. They are grateful to participate in a conference type setting where they are able to share many ideas and learn from each other. Every day another person thanks me for all they learned in the "Career Development" aspect of The Professional Housekeeper training. They walk away with interview techniques, how to put their resume and portfolio together, while learning how to achieve the proper education and experience for the position they are seeking.
Domestic workers need support just like every other profession. This training program offers all of that plus an opportunity to meet others in the field, share ideas, engage and grow. Whether you work as a housekeeper, nanny or even as an Household Manager, knowing basic housekeeping, cooking, laundry, childcare, organization, and time management is a must. It is also necessary that everyone understands professional protocol, labor codes, employment agreements, and how to deal with termination issues properly.
After INA "International Nanny Conference" in Tampa, Fl May 12-15, we are looking forward to San Francisco - June 4th at the Hilton in Burlingame for The Professional Housekeeper Training Seminar.
Join us and learn more about your profession in the private service industry.
Marta Perrone
http://www.theprofessionalhousekeeper.com
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Housekeepers: Cooking in 30 mintues
Ruth Rogers featured in WSJ opened River Cafe in London in 1987 and is known as one of the best Italian restaurants in the world. "Choosing the right ingredients at the market is of utmost importance!" This may mean using an "aged fatty Pancetta with a sweet perfume" or "selecting tomatoes that are winter-appropriate like Marzanos that have few seeds and are low in acidity so they work well in sauces". Learning these tips from great chefs around the world is one way of becoming a confident good cook. We can't all claim to be gourmet chefs enabling us to open restaurants, but we can certainly create our own magic in the comfort of our homes. Here is one of Ruth Roger's easy to make favorites:
Pappardelle With Tomato and Stewed Pancetta
Ingredients
12 ounces dried egg Pappardelle
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
5 ounces Pancetta, cut into 3/4-inch pieces (about 1 cup)
8 whole canned tomatoes, preferably San Marzano
Kosher Salt
2 dried Hot chilies, crumbled
2/3 cup of Parmesan cheese grated
1/2 heavy cream
What to do:
1. Bring pot of salted water to boil
2. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat
3. Add Pancetta and crumbled chilies - cook for 5-6 minutes till brown
4. Squeeze juice out of tomatoes, roughly chop
5. Add tomatoes to pan and season with salt. Cook at medium heat 6-7 minutes
6. Cook pasta until al dente, 6-7 minutes, drain pasta, reserving 1 cup of cooking water.
7. Stir cream into tomato sauce and continue to cook for 3-5.Add pasta to pan and using a wooden spoon, toss it gently. Stir in half of Parmesan. Add just enough pasta water so sauce is glossy and coats the noodles nicely.
8. Serve with remaining Parmesan sprinkled over top.
And there you have it in 30 minutes, an excellent easy to make meal provided by an expert chef, Ruth Rogers.
Learn to make good healthy meals as you continue to improve your skills as a professonal housekeeper
http://www.martaperrone.com
Pappardelle With Tomato and Stewed Pancetta
Ingredients
12 ounces dried egg Pappardelle
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
5 ounces Pancetta, cut into 3/4-inch pieces (about 1 cup)
8 whole canned tomatoes, preferably San Marzano
Kosher Salt
2 dried Hot chilies, crumbled
2/3 cup of Parmesan cheese grated
1/2 heavy cream
What to do:
1. Bring pot of salted water to boil
2. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat
3. Add Pancetta and crumbled chilies - cook for 5-6 minutes till brown
4. Squeeze juice out of tomatoes, roughly chop
5. Add tomatoes to pan and season with salt. Cook at medium heat 6-7 minutes
6. Cook pasta until al dente, 6-7 minutes, drain pasta, reserving 1 cup of cooking water.
7. Stir cream into tomato sauce and continue to cook for 3-5.Add pasta to pan and using a wooden spoon, toss it gently. Stir in half of Parmesan. Add just enough pasta water so sauce is glossy and coats the noodles nicely.
8. Serve with remaining Parmesan sprinkled over top.
And there you have it in 30 minutes, an excellent easy to make meal provided by an expert chef, Ruth Rogers.
Learn to make good healthy meals as you continue to improve your skills as a professonal housekeeper
http://www.martaperrone.com
Friday, December 31, 2010
- Marta Perrone official blog
Our lives encompass essentials that enter our minds throughout each day. As we enter a new year, it is good to reflect on on 2010 and consider ways to improve in all these areas for the upcoming year. Life is ever evolving, but if we sit still in our minds and actions, then the movement is confined to a small space of little change.
1) Family - your role as it relates to family may mean that you are a wife, husband, daughter, son, mother, father, grandparent and/or more. This relationships you have with family members can at times be the most difficult due to the closeness, expectations and disappointments. Yet, getting each of these relationships "right" is important to feel whole as a person. Some of the biggest blocks we hold emotionally come from unresolved issues with "family". Easier said than done, clearly. My efforts in 2011 will be to have better communication with my closest family members and to try harder to develop relationships with those that are family, but I barely see.
2) Friendships - friends, like family will often disappoint you. The closer the friend, the greater the expectation, and the harder the fall. As in every relationship, it is necessary to cultivate it. This means paying attention to the needs of your friends and trying to be there for them more often. For example, being a good listener, accepting their faults, going out of your way to help them, forgiving them for their mistakes and taking time to see them.
3) Work - whether work means being a homemaker, having a paying job, owning a business or being currently unemployed, we have a responsibility to ourselves to be better at what we do and to work harder to attain success. For a homemaker, it may mean organizing your home or household help better so that it runs smoothly. If you hold a job, you may consider the ways in which you can be a better employee, more valuable to your employer and how you might move up the ladder. It may require that you look at your skills and see ways in which to improve them. A heightened awareness of yourself will help you assess your strengths and weaknesses. Make a list and challenge yourself to learn something new in your job. If you are a business owner, surely there are many ways in which you can increase your profits and create a better service. In today's times, this may be the greatest challenge of all, but we must stay positive and just work a little harder. If you are unemployed, sitting back and waiting for the phone to ring will get you nowhere. You must be proactive every day until you find that job. It may mean re-creating yourself and learning new skills.
4) Finances - learning to put money away is a good thing for everyone to learn no matter the age. If a child can learn to put money in a piggy bank and then deposit the weekly or monthly funds into a savings account, so can an adult learn to make take a dollar and make it two. We all come from different financial positions. Some of us live week to week, month to month or year to year. Some of us are more fortunate and have little financial worries. Either way, we could all learn to save more, spend wisely, allocate funds appropriately and simply be better with our finances.
5) Love - if we don't have that special person in our lives, it is simply lonely and empty. Whether you are married or in a partnership, going through a divorce, seeking a relationship, or have lost someone - love enters and departs, keeping it constant is what we need to remain healthy in our hearts. There are ways to make any romantic relationship better. Seeking romance improves our lives. It makes you feel better and happier. I know this to be true being recently married to the love of my life. It wasn't like this always, but I never gave up and now I have it.
6) Goals - without them we simply are stagnant. It may be learning a new language, speaking a language better, playing a sport or instrument, reading more, writing more, communicating better with friends and families, exercising more, making a certain amount of money, graduating from school, achieving a certification, getting a job, getting a better job, quitting a vice that is hurting you, improving your skills at work, traveling, dieting and on and on. For each of us, goals are personal. Sit down and discover your goals for 2011.
7) Personal Health - without it, we have nothing. Get your annual check-ups and stay on top of health. If you don't, no one else will! Being overweight is a problem. Drinking and eating things that are bad for you is a problem. Not getting enough vegetables and healthy foods in your body is a problem. Not exercising is a problem. Not caring for each part of your body that God has given us is a problem. There are ways for all of us to improve our health.
8) Giving Back - through charity, becoming more eco-friendly or "green", and a myriad of other forms of helping others is something that some of us do more of than others due to time and resources. But there is no excuse for any of us to not find a way of being more charitable to others and giving back.
Happy New Year to you, your family and friends!
Let's make 2011 a great year!!
Marta Perrone
http://www.martaperrone.com
1) Family - your role as it relates to family may mean that you are a wife, husband, daughter, son, mother, father, grandparent and/or more. This relationships you have with family members can at times be the most difficult due to the closeness, expectations and disappointments. Yet, getting each of these relationships "right" is important to feel whole as a person. Some of the biggest blocks we hold emotionally come from unresolved issues with "family". Easier said than done, clearly. My efforts in 2011 will be to have better communication with my closest family members and to try harder to develop relationships with those that are family, but I barely see.
2) Friendships - friends, like family will often disappoint you. The closer the friend, the greater the expectation, and the harder the fall. As in every relationship, it is necessary to cultivate it. This means paying attention to the needs of your friends and trying to be there for them more often. For example, being a good listener, accepting their faults, going out of your way to help them, forgiving them for their mistakes and taking time to see them.
3) Work - whether work means being a homemaker, having a paying job, owning a business or being currently unemployed, we have a responsibility to ourselves to be better at what we do and to work harder to attain success. For a homemaker, it may mean organizing your home or household help better so that it runs smoothly. If you hold a job, you may consider the ways in which you can be a better employee, more valuable to your employer and how you might move up the ladder. It may require that you look at your skills and see ways in which to improve them. A heightened awareness of yourself will help you assess your strengths and weaknesses. Make a list and challenge yourself to learn something new in your job. If you are a business owner, surely there are many ways in which you can increase your profits and create a better service. In today's times, this may be the greatest challenge of all, but we must stay positive and just work a little harder. If you are unemployed, sitting back and waiting for the phone to ring will get you nowhere. You must be proactive every day until you find that job. It may mean re-creating yourself and learning new skills.
4) Finances - learning to put money away is a good thing for everyone to learn no matter the age. If a child can learn to put money in a piggy bank and then deposit the weekly or monthly funds into a savings account, so can an adult learn to make take a dollar and make it two. We all come from different financial positions. Some of us live week to week, month to month or year to year. Some of us are more fortunate and have little financial worries. Either way, we could all learn to save more, spend wisely, allocate funds appropriately and simply be better with our finances.
5) Love - if we don't have that special person in our lives, it is simply lonely and empty. Whether you are married or in a partnership, going through a divorce, seeking a relationship, or have lost someone - love enters and departs, keeping it constant is what we need to remain healthy in our hearts. There are ways to make any romantic relationship better. Seeking romance improves our lives. It makes you feel better and happier. I know this to be true being recently married to the love of my life. It wasn't like this always, but I never gave up and now I have it.
6) Goals - without them we simply are stagnant. It may be learning a new language, speaking a language better, playing a sport or instrument, reading more, writing more, communicating better with friends and families, exercising more, making a certain amount of money, graduating from school, achieving a certification, getting a job, getting a better job, quitting a vice that is hurting you, improving your skills at work, traveling, dieting and on and on. For each of us, goals are personal. Sit down and discover your goals for 2011.
7) Personal Health - without it, we have nothing. Get your annual check-ups and stay on top of health. If you don't, no one else will! Being overweight is a problem. Drinking and eating things that are bad for you is a problem. Not getting enough vegetables and healthy foods in your body is a problem. Not exercising is a problem. Not caring for each part of your body that God has given us is a problem. There are ways for all of us to improve our health.
8) Giving Back - through charity, becoming more eco-friendly or "green", and a myriad of other forms of helping others is something that some of us do more of than others due to time and resources. But there is no excuse for any of us to not find a way of being more charitable to others and giving back.
Happy New Year to you, your family and friends!
Let's make 2011 a great year!!
Marta Perrone
http://www.martaperrone.com
Monday, December 27, 2010
Glass Cleaners- Product Reviews - Sprayway, Weiman or Windex
It may well be that most of you have primarily used Windex for just about everything. I know this because having worked years with so many housekeepers, they all seem to know Windex as the ultimate cleaner for just about every surface imaginable. It may seem easier to use one product on everything; yet, we have many wonderful products that have some unique qualities and are more suitable for a specific surface. One of the significant differences between the glass cleaners "Sprayway", "Weiman", and "Windex" is the ingredient "Ammonia".
Ammonia is probably something you may consider valuable as a cleaning ingredient; however many household workers would rather not breathe "ammonia" on a regular basis. It happens to be one of the most widely produced chemicals in the United States. When ammonia enters the body as a result of breathing, swallowing or skin contact, it reacts with water to produce ammonium hydroxide which is a chemical very corrosive that damages cells in the body on contact. The Severity of health effects obviously depends on the type of exposure and duration. Exposure in high concentrations in the air causes immediate burning of the eyes, nose, throat and respiratory tract and can result in blindness, lung damage or death. Inhalation in lower concentrations can cause coughing, and nose and throat irritation. Not sure about how you feel at this moment, but I think I would rather seek products that are ammonia free.
In so doing, I discovered 2 products that are very similar and get the job done beautifully. Sprayway Glass Cleaner can be used on windows, mirrors and windshields. It comes out as a foam that leaves no film whatsoever. It has Ethyl and Methyl Alcohol but no ammonia and comes in a recyclable steel container. Some people even use it on Stainless Steel appliances such as the fridge, oven, microwave and dishwasher. Although there are other products very good for cleaning stainless steel. Although Sprayway has their own stainless steel cleaner and polish, I happen to agree with the reviewers in that Sprayway Glass Cleaner also does the job!
Weiman Glass Cleaner has been around just about as long as Windex by Johnson and is very similar to Sprayway's product. It clearly does the job without leaving residue or streaks. The Weiman family is best known for their special polish used to preserve and protect fine wood furniture. (I happen to love their jewelry cleaner.) They also happen to make a great cook top scrubbing pad for glass and smooth top ranges to prevent scratching.
Another nice aspect to both the Sprayway and Weiman products is that they each are associated with a charity by making donations from purchases. Sprayway donates to breast cancer while Weiman is heavily involved with the National Ovarian Society.
In checking prices, it appears that Sprayway is somewhat more cost effective. Might be better to buy the Weiman products in bulk to get a better price.
http://www.martaperrone.com
Ammonia is probably something you may consider valuable as a cleaning ingredient; however many household workers would rather not breathe "ammonia" on a regular basis. It happens to be one of the most widely produced chemicals in the United States. When ammonia enters the body as a result of breathing, swallowing or skin contact, it reacts with water to produce ammonium hydroxide which is a chemical very corrosive that damages cells in the body on contact. The Severity of health effects obviously depends on the type of exposure and duration. Exposure in high concentrations in the air causes immediate burning of the eyes, nose, throat and respiratory tract and can result in blindness, lung damage or death. Inhalation in lower concentrations can cause coughing, and nose and throat irritation. Not sure about how you feel at this moment, but I think I would rather seek products that are ammonia free.
In so doing, I discovered 2 products that are very similar and get the job done beautifully. Sprayway Glass Cleaner can be used on windows, mirrors and windshields. It comes out as a foam that leaves no film whatsoever. It has Ethyl and Methyl Alcohol but no ammonia and comes in a recyclable steel container. Some people even use it on Stainless Steel appliances such as the fridge, oven, microwave and dishwasher. Although there are other products very good for cleaning stainless steel. Although Sprayway has their own stainless steel cleaner and polish, I happen to agree with the reviewers in that Sprayway Glass Cleaner also does the job!
Weiman Glass Cleaner has been around just about as long as Windex by Johnson and is very similar to Sprayway's product. It clearly does the job without leaving residue or streaks. The Weiman family is best known for their special polish used to preserve and protect fine wood furniture. (I happen to love their jewelry cleaner.) They also happen to make a great cook top scrubbing pad for glass and smooth top ranges to prevent scratching.
Another nice aspect to both the Sprayway and Weiman products is that they each are associated with a charity by making donations from purchases. Sprayway donates to breast cancer while Weiman is heavily involved with the National Ovarian Society.
In checking prices, it appears that Sprayway is somewhat more cost effective. Might be better to buy the Weiman products in bulk to get a better price.
http://www.martaperrone.com
How do I find a Nanny Job in the New Year?
Now that the holidays are over, it is time to get back to the business of finding a job working as a Nanny and/or Housekeeper. Here are tips on how to get the process going:
1) Take a look at your resume and be sure that it is updated. Review it carefully to ensure that it reflects your job experience, education, objective, talents and skills clearly. A resume will be reviewed within 1-2 minutes, so you need to make that one page impressive. Have additional copies available and put it on a hard drive/computer so it can be sent electronically.
2) Call your previous references, wishing them a good new year and advising them that you will be searching for work. Let them know that they might be receiving calls, but you will only give their numbers out to employers that you are serious about engaging. While you have them on the phone, ask them to put the word out to their friends that you are looking for employment.
3) Go on line and look at various job listing sites that specialize in your field. Some of the more popular ones are: sittercity.com, care.com, nannies4hire.com, elderlycare.com. Go into each site and get your resume up and registered. Be very descriptive about your experience. This is a resume on line so every word counts.
4) Go on line and look up agencies in your area. Some you may have already registered with and need to send an updated resume. Make contact with a specific person and keep a record of who you spoke to and when. Make appointments to visit the agency and reconnect with them so they are reminded of you. Be sure to take with you copies of your complete portfolio.
5) Check your local newspapers for ads seeking employees in your field. Cut the ads out, tape them to individual sheets of paper and make notes concerning each job and information you received by phone. Even if the job is taken, call back in a week or so to see the status since many times new employees do not work out for one reason or another.
6) Get business cards made with your name and skill. Pass them to people that you meet and tell them about yourself. Consider doing an email blast to your contacts to spread the word.
7) Have your "interview outfit" clean, pressed and ready to go so that you can respond to a call at any moment. Even take it with you in your car in case you get a random call and need to get to the interview quickly.
8) Check your certifications to be sure they are current. Consider classes that might improve your skills. Enroll so that you are constantly improving yourself in your field. This will also be impressive within an interview.
Stay positive, upbeat and focused. Be persistent and the right job will come your way.
BEST OF LUCK ALWAYS!
Marta Perrone
http://www.martaperrone.com
1) Take a look at your resume and be sure that it is updated. Review it carefully to ensure that it reflects your job experience, education, objective, talents and skills clearly. A resume will be reviewed within 1-2 minutes, so you need to make that one page impressive. Have additional copies available and put it on a hard drive/computer so it can be sent electronically.
2) Call your previous references, wishing them a good new year and advising them that you will be searching for work. Let them know that they might be receiving calls, but you will only give their numbers out to employers that you are serious about engaging. While you have them on the phone, ask them to put the word out to their friends that you are looking for employment.
3) Go on line and look at various job listing sites that specialize in your field. Some of the more popular ones are: sittercity.com, care.com, nannies4hire.com, elderlycare.com. Go into each site and get your resume up and registered. Be very descriptive about your experience. This is a resume on line so every word counts.
4) Go on line and look up agencies in your area. Some you may have already registered with and need to send an updated resume. Make contact with a specific person and keep a record of who you spoke to and when. Make appointments to visit the agency and reconnect with them so they are reminded of you. Be sure to take with you copies of your complete portfolio.
5) Check your local newspapers for ads seeking employees in your field. Cut the ads out, tape them to individual sheets of paper and make notes concerning each job and information you received by phone. Even if the job is taken, call back in a week or so to see the status since many times new employees do not work out for one reason or another.
6) Get business cards made with your name and skill. Pass them to people that you meet and tell them about yourself. Consider doing an email blast to your contacts to spread the word.
7) Have your "interview outfit" clean, pressed and ready to go so that you can respond to a call at any moment. Even take it with you in your car in case you get a random call and need to get to the interview quickly.
8) Check your certifications to be sure they are current. Consider classes that might improve your skills. Enroll so that you are constantly improving yourself in your field. This will also be impressive within an interview.
Stay positive, upbeat and focused. Be persistent and the right job will come your way.
BEST OF LUCK ALWAYS!
Marta Perrone
http://www.martaperrone.com
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Housekeeping Tips for Year-End Cleaning
Cleaning up the house after holidays is similar to conforming your closet to a new season. There are things that must be cleaned, put away for the next Holiday, and in some cases thrown out. The task is not always easy, but getting through it will make the house look better and more organized.
Here are some tips for the year-end housecleaning.
1. The refrigerator is the most important appliance in any home as it stores food at the right temperature to prevent spoilage. If the refrigerator is well-functioning, it helps the family stretch its food budget and allows bulk purchases of vegetables, fruit and other meats. However, it can only run efficiently if it is cleaned regularly. Cold air cannot flow freely if the refrigerator is overstocked. Leftovers left too long can develop molds and other organisms dangerous to health. Spills should be wiped, jars cleaned, and and dripping stopped and secured. Throw out any expired food items and leftovers that are less than a single serving. Discard half-used cartons of cream, packets of mixes that will never be used and any old restaurant leftovers.
Once per week, re-arrange fruits and vegetables, jars and other containers checking on freshness. Wipe down the racks and shelves regularly with vinegar-moistened kitchen towels. Make sure the air vents are clear and unblocked to maintain constant temperature and proper circulation of cold air.
2. Go through the pantry. This may be a good time to get rid of all those sweets and goodies you bought for those holiday parties. Take them to the office and give them away.
3. The microwave oven can be cleaned by putting a half-full microwave safe bowl with a mixture of half vinegar and half water - then nuke it for 2 minutes. Wipe down the interior with a sponge or rag dipped in the hot vinegar. The vinegar's acetic acid sanitizes and deodorizes the microwave.
4. Clear out the drawers of useless tools and gadgets that may be specialty tools used for that turkey and other prepared foods for the holidays. While you are there, take a look at your utensils and throw away any old ones that have missing parts or need to be replaced.
5. Re-arrange your linen & china closets, putting the holiday place mats and tablecloths, dinnerware and stemware in the back, making it easy to reach the items you will most likely use throughout the year.
6. Go through your clothing closets and take clothes that you typically use for the holidays and re-arrange your things putting those items that you will not be using in the back. Do the same with those heavy winter jackets used on holiday vacations.
7. Review the cleaning products and equipment checking for replacement of those you use most often. Consider getting a new mop or if necessary a new vacuum. If you keep the old vacuum, change the bags and have it cleaned professionally.
8. If you used the fireplace more often, give it a good clean-out. You can get a chimney sweeper to do it or try it yourself. Open up the damper and carefully climb up on your roof taking rods and brushes with you. Remove the chimney cap and run the brush down the chimney using a plunging motion. You can go back in the house and use the short chimney brush to clean the flue. Use a vacuum cleaner or small broom and dustpan to remove the cold ashes. Brush the floor and walls with a stiff dry scrub brush and vacuum up all the remaining dust and debris.
9. The door thresholds may have accumulated a lot of soot from the rains and harsh weather conditions. Clean them out with a vacuum attachment and then wipe them down with a damp cloth.
10. Be sure to get the air ducts cleaned out so that you don't accumulate dust and debris in the house.
Best wishes for a wonderful 2011 in your very clean home!!!
Marta Perrone
http://www.martaperrone.com
Here are some tips for the year-end housecleaning.
1. The refrigerator is the most important appliance in any home as it stores food at the right temperature to prevent spoilage. If the refrigerator is well-functioning, it helps the family stretch its food budget and allows bulk purchases of vegetables, fruit and other meats. However, it can only run efficiently if it is cleaned regularly. Cold air cannot flow freely if the refrigerator is overstocked. Leftovers left too long can develop molds and other organisms dangerous to health. Spills should be wiped, jars cleaned, and and dripping stopped and secured. Throw out any expired food items and leftovers that are less than a single serving. Discard half-used cartons of cream, packets of mixes that will never be used and any old restaurant leftovers.
Once per week, re-arrange fruits and vegetables, jars and other containers checking on freshness. Wipe down the racks and shelves regularly with vinegar-moistened kitchen towels. Make sure the air vents are clear and unblocked to maintain constant temperature and proper circulation of cold air.
2. Go through the pantry. This may be a good time to get rid of all those sweets and goodies you bought for those holiday parties. Take them to the office and give them away.
3. The microwave oven can be cleaned by putting a half-full microwave safe bowl with a mixture of half vinegar and half water - then nuke it for 2 minutes. Wipe down the interior with a sponge or rag dipped in the hot vinegar. The vinegar's acetic acid sanitizes and deodorizes the microwave.
4. Clear out the drawers of useless tools and gadgets that may be specialty tools used for that turkey and other prepared foods for the holidays. While you are there, take a look at your utensils and throw away any old ones that have missing parts or need to be replaced.
5. Re-arrange your linen & china closets, putting the holiday place mats and tablecloths, dinnerware and stemware in the back, making it easy to reach the items you will most likely use throughout the year.
6. Go through your clothing closets and take clothes that you typically use for the holidays and re-arrange your things putting those items that you will not be using in the back. Do the same with those heavy winter jackets used on holiday vacations.
7. Review the cleaning products and equipment checking for replacement of those you use most often. Consider getting a new mop or if necessary a new vacuum. If you keep the old vacuum, change the bags and have it cleaned professionally.
8. If you used the fireplace more often, give it a good clean-out. You can get a chimney sweeper to do it or try it yourself. Open up the damper and carefully climb up on your roof taking rods and brushes with you. Remove the chimney cap and run the brush down the chimney using a plunging motion. You can go back in the house and use the short chimney brush to clean the flue. Use a vacuum cleaner or small broom and dustpan to remove the cold ashes. Brush the floor and walls with a stiff dry scrub brush and vacuum up all the remaining dust and debris.
9. The door thresholds may have accumulated a lot of soot from the rains and harsh weather conditions. Clean them out with a vacuum attachment and then wipe them down with a damp cloth.
10. Be sure to get the air ducts cleaned out so that you don't accumulate dust and debris in the house.
Best wishes for a wonderful 2011 in your very clean home!!!
Marta Perrone
http://www.martaperrone.com
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Housekeeping Quick Tips Just Before the Guests Arrive
Housekeeping Quick Tips Just Before the Guests Arrive
Inviting people over for the holidays is a wonderful way to end the year. It gives all friends and family an opportunity to see each other and catch up. If you are concerned about what the house might look like and see this as a deterrent, here are some tips on how to get the house in order so that you can have these get together nights throughout the holidays.
1. Choose the room(s) that everyone will spend the most time and focus on these: Living Room, Family Room, Kitchen, Dining Room and Powder Bath.
2. Living Room/Family Room: a) check the fireplace for fresh wood, clean the mantel and wipe down the artifacts on the mantel, check the flute is open if you are going to put the fireplace on, b) vacuum the rug or sweep/mop the floor and wipe down the baseboards, c) fluff the pillows up on the living room couch, d) dust the coffee table, end tables and other furniture pieces and put things back neatly, e) fluff up the pillows on the couches and sofa chairs, f) check the ceiling lights, corners for cob webs.
3. Kitchen: a) wipe down the stove and vent, b) take everything off the counters and wipe them down putting things back neatly (take away any unnecessary stuff that has been sitting there waiting for you to put away), c) wipe down the refrigerator taking expired items away and cleaning the shelves and drawers, d) empty out the dishwasher and sink of dishes so you have room for new ones, e) sweep/mop the kitchen floor, and f) be sure the kitchen garbage is emptied.
4. Powder Bath: a) wipe down and clean the sink and counter, b) clean the mirrors, door and switch-plates of any smudges, c) clean the toilet and leave a new roll of TP, d) sweep/mop the bathroom floor and wipe down the baseboard, e) empty the trash, and f) lay out guest towels for the guests.
5. Final touches: a) Light a candle, b) lay out some nuts and candy, c) be sure to have coasters and/or cocktail napkins available, d) create a light cheese/cracker/fresh fruit platter, and e) light the fireplace and put on some good music.
A quick clean-up of 4 major rooms of the house where the guests will most likely visit may take you a matter of 1 hour or so if you work quickly and efficiently. Don't let the mess in your home prevent you from inviting people over to share in the joy of the holiday season.
http://www.martaperrone.com
Inviting people over for the holidays is a wonderful way to end the year. It gives all friends and family an opportunity to see each other and catch up. If you are concerned about what the house might look like and see this as a deterrent, here are some tips on how to get the house in order so that you can have these get together nights throughout the holidays.
1. Choose the room(s) that everyone will spend the most time and focus on these: Living Room, Family Room, Kitchen, Dining Room and Powder Bath.
2. Living Room/Family Room: a) check the fireplace for fresh wood, clean the mantel and wipe down the artifacts on the mantel, check the flute is open if you are going to put the fireplace on, b) vacuum the rug or sweep/mop the floor and wipe down the baseboards, c) fluff the pillows up on the living room couch, d) dust the coffee table, end tables and other furniture pieces and put things back neatly, e) fluff up the pillows on the couches and sofa chairs, f) check the ceiling lights, corners for cob webs.
3. Kitchen: a) wipe down the stove and vent, b) take everything off the counters and wipe them down putting things back neatly (take away any unnecessary stuff that has been sitting there waiting for you to put away), c) wipe down the refrigerator taking expired items away and cleaning the shelves and drawers, d) empty out the dishwasher and sink of dishes so you have room for new ones, e) sweep/mop the kitchen floor, and f) be sure the kitchen garbage is emptied.
4. Powder Bath: a) wipe down and clean the sink and counter, b) clean the mirrors, door and switch-plates of any smudges, c) clean the toilet and leave a new roll of TP, d) sweep/mop the bathroom floor and wipe down the baseboard, e) empty the trash, and f) lay out guest towels for the guests.
5. Final touches: a) Light a candle, b) lay out some nuts and candy, c) be sure to have coasters and/or cocktail napkins available, d) create a light cheese/cracker/fresh fruit platter, and e) light the fireplace and put on some good music.
A quick clean-up of 4 major rooms of the house where the guests will most likely visit may take you a matter of 1 hour or so if you work quickly and efficiently. Don't let the mess in your home prevent you from inviting people over to share in the joy of the holiday season.
http://www.martaperrone.com
Organizing a closet, drawer and cabinet -
Isn't it wonderful, when you walk into a closet and can see everything ever so perfectly so that you can make a clear and quick decision as to what you want to wear at that particular moment? Here are some tips on how we accomplish having an organized closet.
1. Take everything out and start from scratch. Sounds daunting, but that is the best way to start, begin section by section. Before you putting anything back, sit down with a piece of paper and pen and design what items you want to keep in this closet and how you want them placed. Pretend you are the architect and designer hired to make this closet beautiful and functional. Go through everything you have and see if you actually have used it in the last 5 years. The likelihood is that there will be many things in your closet that you didn't even remember you had because it has been way too long since you last used it.
2. Let's assume you are a woman with many necessary things to make you look fabulous: shoes, handbags, dresses, skirts, pants, blouses, sweaters, tops, gym wear, shorts.....and then there are the undergarments and accessories. We need a place for our underwear, bras, stockings, socks, shawls & scarfs, bathing suits, and jewelry. Not everyone has enough room to neatly place everything in its separate compartment. We may find it necessary to consolidate things. That is why having a plan on paper is a good way to start. Put things in an order so that you are making the best use of space. Place together the things that you rarely use on the bottom drawers and shelves with the most frequently used things more reachable. Everyone's plan will be slightly different.
3. Be sure to use the right hangers for everything. Getting the cushioned hangers for sweaters and dresses is best. Use wood hangers instead of wire. Invest in a great set of hangers and use the same ones for each section of your clothes. It makes the clothes look better in the closet and protects the clothes from having funny hanger marks. If you are concerned about moths, get moth balls and place them in strategic places in the closet. Try not to keep your clothes in plastic since the oil in it tends to damage the clothes over time. If you want to cover your clothes, use cloth covers.
4. Beginning with my favorite thing of all "shoes & handbags": you can place shoes in their boxes and label them according to style, color and whether you would wear them in a more formal or casual setting. You could also take them out of their original shoe boxes and put them in new plastic clear boxes so you can see what is in there. You can also take them out and show their beauty in full form by placing them on a shelf or shoe rack - which makes it the easiest way to choose what you want to wear at that moment. Handbags like shoes are used with specific dresses, on specific days, depending on the mood, the weather, the event, the need. Oh it gets so complicated when it comes to handbags, there just aren't enough of them. So what do you do with all of these purses that you can't let go of under any circumstances. Begin with the ones you use only in the evening with formal attire and place them together on the higher shelf in soft handbag covers. Try to keep the covers for every handbag since each will serve as a label for the bag. Put the bags you use most often together. If you prefer keeping your bags out the handbag covers, then color coordinate the bags and/or put them along side each other according to size or style.
5. If you love dresses like I do, you may have as many as you do pants. I like to keep my evening dresses separated from those I wear to work in the daytime. If you can, try separating your dresses between those you wear during the Spring and Summer months from those you wear in the Fall and Winter.
6. Skirts should be in their own section or along side dresses all together, always separating them by color, fabric and style. Blouses can be kept close by to the skirts so that you can see which ones go best. Put the blouses in order of fabric, short vs. long sleeves and casual vs. formal.
7. Pants like jeans can be folded 3-ways like they do ever so neatly in the stores, or you can hang them up along side your other types of pants. Again, color-coordinating them is always a good idea. You may also want to hang your sweats all together or fold them up.
8. Tops and sweaters need their own domain according to style and color. Keep your heavier Winter sweaters either in separate sweater boxes up on top of the closet and exchange them for your Summer sweaters depending on the time of the year. Tops may be used more readily all throughout the year so keep them handy and color coordinated. I like to hang my cardigans on cushioned hangers in a separate section with other short jackets and zip up sweat tops.
9. Neatly fold your bras and underwear according to color and mood. Oh yes, ladies there are those sexier ones, and then there are those comfortable ones. Whatever you do, make sure that your drawers have both!!
10. Remember, you don't want clothes and things that you don't use taking up space. Take out and give away anything that hasn't been used in at least a year unless you promise to use it within the next 6 months. Coordinate things by matching fabrics and styles and colors so that you can see everything easily and choose what to wear quickly. Keeping things in order means putting everything back where you found it each and every time. If things tend to get messy over time, take an hour or two and re-organize and fold everything to make it look perfect.
http://www.martaperrone.com
1. Take everything out and start from scratch. Sounds daunting, but that is the best way to start, begin section by section. Before you putting anything back, sit down with a piece of paper and pen and design what items you want to keep in this closet and how you want them placed. Pretend you are the architect and designer hired to make this closet beautiful and functional. Go through everything you have and see if you actually have used it in the last 5 years. The likelihood is that there will be many things in your closet that you didn't even remember you had because it has been way too long since you last used it.
2. Let's assume you are a woman with many necessary things to make you look fabulous: shoes, handbags, dresses, skirts, pants, blouses, sweaters, tops, gym wear, shorts.....and then there are the undergarments and accessories. We need a place for our underwear, bras, stockings, socks, shawls & scarfs, bathing suits, and jewelry. Not everyone has enough room to neatly place everything in its separate compartment. We may find it necessary to consolidate things. That is why having a plan on paper is a good way to start. Put things in an order so that you are making the best use of space. Place together the things that you rarely use on the bottom drawers and shelves with the most frequently used things more reachable. Everyone's plan will be slightly different.
3. Be sure to use the right hangers for everything. Getting the cushioned hangers for sweaters and dresses is best. Use wood hangers instead of wire. Invest in a great set of hangers and use the same ones for each section of your clothes. It makes the clothes look better in the closet and protects the clothes from having funny hanger marks. If you are concerned about moths, get moth balls and place them in strategic places in the closet. Try not to keep your clothes in plastic since the oil in it tends to damage the clothes over time. If you want to cover your clothes, use cloth covers.
4. Beginning with my favorite thing of all "shoes & handbags": you can place shoes in their boxes and label them according to style, color and whether you would wear them in a more formal or casual setting. You could also take them out of their original shoe boxes and put them in new plastic clear boxes so you can see what is in there. You can also take them out and show their beauty in full form by placing them on a shelf or shoe rack - which makes it the easiest way to choose what you want to wear at that moment. Handbags like shoes are used with specific dresses, on specific days, depending on the mood, the weather, the event, the need. Oh it gets so complicated when it comes to handbags, there just aren't enough of them. So what do you do with all of these purses that you can't let go of under any circumstances. Begin with the ones you use only in the evening with formal attire and place them together on the higher shelf in soft handbag covers. Try to keep the covers for every handbag since each will serve as a label for the bag. Put the bags you use most often together. If you prefer keeping your bags out the handbag covers, then color coordinate the bags and/or put them along side each other according to size or style.
5. If you love dresses like I do, you may have as many as you do pants. I like to keep my evening dresses separated from those I wear to work in the daytime. If you can, try separating your dresses between those you wear during the Spring and Summer months from those you wear in the Fall and Winter.
6. Skirts should be in their own section or along side dresses all together, always separating them by color, fabric and style. Blouses can be kept close by to the skirts so that you can see which ones go best. Put the blouses in order of fabric, short vs. long sleeves and casual vs. formal.
7. Pants like jeans can be folded 3-ways like they do ever so neatly in the stores, or you can hang them up along side your other types of pants. Again, color-coordinating them is always a good idea. You may also want to hang your sweats all together or fold them up.
8. Tops and sweaters need their own domain according to style and color. Keep your heavier Winter sweaters either in separate sweater boxes up on top of the closet and exchange them for your Summer sweaters depending on the time of the year. Tops may be used more readily all throughout the year so keep them handy and color coordinated. I like to hang my cardigans on cushioned hangers in a separate section with other short jackets and zip up sweat tops.
9. Neatly fold your bras and underwear according to color and mood. Oh yes, ladies there are those sexier ones, and then there are those comfortable ones. Whatever you do, make sure that your drawers have both!!
10. Remember, you don't want clothes and things that you don't use taking up space. Take out and give away anything that hasn't been used in at least a year unless you promise to use it within the next 6 months. Coordinate things by matching fabrics and styles and colors so that you can see everything easily and choose what to wear quickly. Keeping things in order means putting everything back where you found it each and every time. If things tend to get messy over time, take an hour or two and re-organize and fold everything to make it look perfect.
http://www.martaperrone.com
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Overtime Law for Housekeepers & Nannies
Breedlove & Associates is a great resource for learning about tax and payroll laws for housekeepers and all other household workers. They are the leading company for this in the nation. The question of Overtime Law and how this affects Household Workers is a subject that they get frequently asked. Here is how they respond:
"Household employees must be compensated according to the Federal Labor Standards Act (FLSA) which provides the framework for federal and state wage and hour law. The FLSA classifies household employees as non-exempt workers, requiring that the household employment industry provide overtime pay. Here is an outline of what you need to know in order to structure your household employment relationship successfully:
1) The standard workweek is defined as 40 hours in a 7-day period.
2) An employee's hourly earnings must be equal to or greater than the federal minimum wage at the time. Some states have higher minimum wage which bumps the federal rate.
3) Overtime must be paid 1.5 times the regular hourly rate - and it must be paid for all the hours worked over 40 in a week.
4) Overtime is not required for holidays worked.
5) No limit is placed on the number of hours worked in a 7-day workweek, as long as the employee is fairly compensated.
6) Live-in household employees do not have to be paid overtime but are entitled to the regular hourly wage for every hour worked.
7) Additional overtime requirements can be imposed by the state."
It is recommended that salary, as well as the regular rate and overtime rate, be addressed in writing in order to protect both employer and employee. When overtime is not explicitly stipulated in an employment contract for salaried employees, the law will side with the employee in an overtime dispute. More importantly, a critical relationship may terminate over a wage issue that could have been handled correctly and easily at the time of hiring.
"Household employees must be compensated according to the Federal Labor Standards Act (FLSA) which provides the framework for federal and state wage and hour law. The FLSA classifies household employees as non-exempt workers, requiring that the household employment industry provide overtime pay. Here is an outline of what you need to know in order to structure your household employment relationship successfully:
1) The standard workweek is defined as 40 hours in a 7-day period.
2) An employee's hourly earnings must be equal to or greater than the federal minimum wage at the time. Some states have higher minimum wage which bumps the federal rate.
3) Overtime must be paid 1.5 times the regular hourly rate - and it must be paid for all the hours worked over 40 in a week.
4) Overtime is not required for holidays worked.
5) No limit is placed on the number of hours worked in a 7-day workweek, as long as the employee is fairly compensated.
6) Live-in household employees do not have to be paid overtime but are entitled to the regular hourly wage for every hour worked.
7) Additional overtime requirements can be imposed by the state."
It is recommended that salary, as well as the regular rate and overtime rate, be addressed in writing in order to protect both employer and employee. When overtime is not explicitly stipulated in an employment contract for salaried employees, the law will side with the employee in an overtime dispute. More importantly, a critical relationship may terminate over a wage issue that could have been handled correctly and easily at the time of hiring.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Unlicensed Drivers Get More than Just a Fine
What it must feel like to be out on the road every day knowing that you could be caught in some traffic violation and be thrown out of the country. There are 4.5 million unlicensed drivers in the United States; only three states New Mexico, Utah and Washington actually issue licenses without proof of legal residence. Many states have adopted tough new laws to prevent illegal immigrants from driving, while expanding immigration enforcement by the state and local police. As a result, at least 30,000 illegal immigrants who were stopped by for common traffic violations in the last 3 years have ended up in deportation. These numbers reported by Homeland Security are increasing rapidly.
The real concern is obviously the overall immigration issue. Many housekeepers, nannies and other household workers have come to this country to fill a need in our workforce. In the years past, less importance was given as to whether these workers were actually legal. There would be these sporadic celebrity cases that brought attention to the matter; yet since most household employers were less interested in providing payroll to their employees, it wasn't a matter of grave concern. Immigration issues in the last 5 years have increased awareness in the public turning household employers' attention to the need to hire legal workers. Yet, the desire to place them on payroll is still not preferred. This partial commitment to the issue of hiring properly is part of the problem.
We must solve this immigration concern for the millions of illegals who continue to work hard in this country. The question of where to draw the line between those who have arrived 5, 10, 15 or 20 years ago and still have not been granted work permits must be addressed. We cannot have undocumented workers continue living in fear of deportation. We also cannot have more immigrants here where there is little work for them. In these very tough economic times, we have less jobs available for workers of every type. Illegal household workers feel the brunt of this lack of opportunity more than those who are documented. They have to wait out these times just like other Americans who are struggling. If household workers, legal or illegal, are here serving our needs and there are jobs and employers willing to have them in their homes, then we must find a way to put them through the due diligence process so that they become part of our system. Employers must also take on the responsibility of hiring them legally so that they may receive the benefits that working legally in this country provide all workers.
The real concern is obviously the overall immigration issue. Many housekeepers, nannies and other household workers have come to this country to fill a need in our workforce. In the years past, less importance was given as to whether these workers were actually legal. There would be these sporadic celebrity cases that brought attention to the matter; yet since most household employers were less interested in providing payroll to their employees, it wasn't a matter of grave concern. Immigration issues in the last 5 years have increased awareness in the public turning household employers' attention to the need to hire legal workers. Yet, the desire to place them on payroll is still not preferred. This partial commitment to the issue of hiring properly is part of the problem.
We must solve this immigration concern for the millions of illegals who continue to work hard in this country. The question of where to draw the line between those who have arrived 5, 10, 15 or 20 years ago and still have not been granted work permits must be addressed. We cannot have undocumented workers continue living in fear of deportation. We also cannot have more immigrants here where there is little work for them. In these very tough economic times, we have less jobs available for workers of every type. Illegal household workers feel the brunt of this lack of opportunity more than those who are documented. They have to wait out these times just like other Americans who are struggling. If household workers, legal or illegal, are here serving our needs and there are jobs and employers willing to have them in their homes, then we must find a way to put them through the due diligence process so that they become part of our system. Employers must also take on the responsibility of hiring them legally so that they may receive the benefits that working legally in this country provide all workers.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Holiday Bonus for your Housekeeper or Nanny
Household employers are confused about what to give to their housekeepers or nannies during the holiday season. The question is whether to give a gift AND/OR a bonus check or nothing at all. Here are some guidelines to assist:
1) During the holidays, it is very nice for all household employers to acknowledge their employees even if by a very small gesture.
2) If your employee has been with you several years, a bonus check AND a gift is definitely the right thing to do.
3) If you just hired an employee, you may not want to provide a bonus check, but a gift of some sort would be in order.
4) The bonus check is normally equivalent to 1 week's pay when the employee has been with you for 1-3 years. Anything above 3 years usually turns into 2 weeks worth of pay and can work itself all the way up to 4 weeks pay depending on the number of years worked.
5) If money is tight and a bonus check cannot be provided, then perhaps splurging a bit more on the gift would be appropriate.
6) If your employee is leaving you after the holidays and the employee/employer relationship has ended, it would still be appropriate to give the employee something to show your appreciation for the years of service.
7) If you are ending your relationship not on good terms, then my advice would be to find a way to mend these ill feelings so that in this holiday season, everyone moves forward in a positive manner. (This may be easier said then done, but still worth the effort.)
Giving during the Holiday Season is part of what Christmas and Hanukkah is all about: showing others in your life just how much you appreciate them. Your appreciation cannot always be measured by the gift - sometimes just the gesture is enough!
1) During the holidays, it is very nice for all household employers to acknowledge their employees even if by a very small gesture.
2) If your employee has been with you several years, a bonus check AND a gift is definitely the right thing to do.
3) If you just hired an employee, you may not want to provide a bonus check, but a gift of some sort would be in order.
4) The bonus check is normally equivalent to 1 week's pay when the employee has been with you for 1-3 years. Anything above 3 years usually turns into 2 weeks worth of pay and can work itself all the way up to 4 weeks pay depending on the number of years worked.
5) If money is tight and a bonus check cannot be provided, then perhaps splurging a bit more on the gift would be appropriate.
6) If your employee is leaving you after the holidays and the employee/employer relationship has ended, it would still be appropriate to give the employee something to show your appreciation for the years of service.
7) If you are ending your relationship not on good terms, then my advice would be to find a way to mend these ill feelings so that in this holiday season, everyone moves forward in a positive manner. (This may be easier said then done, but still worth the effort.)
Giving during the Holiday Season is part of what Christmas and Hanukkah is all about: showing others in your life just how much you appreciate them. Your appreciation cannot always be measured by the gift - sometimes just the gesture is enough!
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Holiday Giving while Organizing your Closet
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Holiday Giving while Organizing your ClosetThere is so much excess in most of our homes.If you don't think so, then open a closet and begin to look at everything carefully. When was the last time you used it, wore it or even remembered you had it.The likelihood is that most of the things we keep are rarely used on a regular basis. There are however many people in need, especially now with present times so difficult. Here are some thoughts on how you can make cleaning your closet a charitable act during this holiday season:
1. Begin with your clothing closet - try on every garment and see if it even still looks good on you. Does it fit? Maybe it is not stylish. Perhaps, it would look better on someone else. Start a pile of things that you really won't ever wear again.
2. Go through your handbags and see if any of these have been take out?
3. Go through your shoes...have they all been out for a walk recently.
4. Check out the entry closet where you might keep jackets. This is most needed at winter time.
5. Now move on to the linen closet where you keep blankets and towels. Are there any that could be shared with someone needy?
6. Check your pantry for food that could be taken to the Mission or soup kitchens in town.
7. Go through your child's room and see if there are toys that have not been touched for months.Perhaps your child is growing up and no longer needs those legos or barbie dolls. Surely there is a child you could make smile.
8. Step into your garage and see if there is sports equipment or other things no longer used.
There is so much that can be recycled to a family or institution in need. Just put aside one hour and gather what you can so that you can make someone's Holiday bright.
Happy Holidays!
Holiday Giving while Organizing your ClosetThere is so much excess in most of our homes.If you don't think so, then open a closet and begin to look at everything carefully. When was the last time you used it, wore it or even remembered you had it.The likelihood is that most of the things we keep are rarely used on a regular basis. There are however many people in need, especially now with present times so difficult. Here are some thoughts on how you can make cleaning your closet a charitable act during this holiday season:
1. Begin with your clothing closet - try on every garment and see if it even still looks good on you. Does it fit? Maybe it is not stylish. Perhaps, it would look better on someone else. Start a pile of things that you really won't ever wear again.
2. Go through your handbags and see if any of these have been take out?
3. Go through your shoes...have they all been out for a walk recently.
4. Check out the entry closet where you might keep jackets. This is most needed at winter time.
5. Now move on to the linen closet where you keep blankets and towels. Are there any that could be shared with someone needy?
6. Check your pantry for food that could be taken to the Mission or soup kitchens in town.
7. Go through your child's room and see if there are toys that have not been touched for months.Perhaps your child is growing up and no longer needs those legos or barbie dolls. Surely there is a child you could make smile.
8. Step into your garage and see if there is sports equipment or other things no longer used.
There is so much that can be recycled to a family or institution in need. Just put aside one hour and gather what you can so that you can make someone's Holiday bright.
Happy Holidays!
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Green Cleaning - Microfiber Cloths
Quickie Green Cleaning Microfiber cloths is my cleaning product of the week review. They are produced from high quality yarn and woven to very high densities. The best part to these cleaning cloths is that they are tailored to clean specific surfaces which maximizes their effectiveness. GREEN CLEANING - Microfiber cloths are for every possible cleaning. It isn't just about the cleaning liquid, you have to have good cloths for each surface. In some cases, you can clean a surface without using any fluids. They are color-coordinated and offer tags with their specific use in case you forget. Once used, throw them into the washing machine to be re-used. Green Cleaning makes five types of microfiber cloths:
1. Kitchen & Bathroom - enhanced to absorb oily liquids
2. Glass & Windows - enhances water absorption for a streak free finish
3. Dusting & Polishing - has a magnet like effect on dust
4. Stainless Steel- formulated to easily remove fingerprints and smudges
5. Electronics - for plasma/LCD and flat screens with a soft suede like weave that leaves a sparkling clear shine without streaking, linting or damaging sensitive surfaces.
There is something to be said about these high polyester microfiber threads.
http://www.martaperrone.com
1. Kitchen & Bathroom - enhanced to absorb oily liquids
2. Glass & Windows - enhances water absorption for a streak free finish
3. Dusting & Polishing - has a magnet like effect on dust
4. Stainless Steel- formulated to easily remove fingerprints and smudges
5. Electronics - for plasma/LCD and flat screens with a soft suede like weave that leaves a sparkling clear shine without streaking, linting or damaging sensitive surfaces.
There is something to be said about these high polyester microfiber threads.
http://www.martaperrone.com
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Entertaining Guests
Entertaining guests means being a gracious host or hostess from the moment your guests enter the door throughout the evening.You want them to feel as though they are at home. Here are some tips:
1) Before they arrive, check your lighting and perhaps the fireplace lit to add ambiance and warmth to the room.
2) After a warm greeting and offering to take their handbag and/or remove coats so that they feel comfortable, you then offer them a drink. This is why it is important to know in advance what your guests drink so that you have exactly what they enjoy.
3) Let them know where the powder bath is and place guest towels in it for their use. As your hors d'oevres are laid out bring your guests to a comfortable seating area where everyone can enjoy the cocktail hour. Keep the cocktail hour exactly as it is referred to - 1 hour - prior to serving dinner. You never want to rush guests from the door to the table.
4)As cooking has its timing so does entertaining. When it is time for serving dinner, bring your guests to the table assisting where they should be seated. You may have prearranged named place cards if you prefer certain people together or decide to let your guests sit wherever they feel comfortable. It is my preference to announce where my husband and I are seated and then invite my guests to sit where they would like in between. If you see hesitation on their part, then guide them.
5)While seated, remember to always check for refills with water, wine and bread. If there is an opportunity to serve seconds, then offer this to your guests. Remember to remove plates only when all your guests are finished with that particular course. Pass the butter if you think they need it; offer the salt and pepper; pass the bread if their bread plate is empty. Muster conversation that includes everyone.
6)Wait a little in between finishing the main meal and serving dessert. Offer coffee or tea (be sure to have cream or milk, low cal sweetner, sugar, and lemon, available.
7)Offer to leave the table to another room where you can serve after-dinner drinks and continue the conversation until your guests are ready to depart.
Your attentiveness to your guests' every need is the most important part to "entertaining" properly.
1) Before they arrive, check your lighting and perhaps the fireplace lit to add ambiance and warmth to the room.
2) After a warm greeting and offering to take their handbag and/or remove coats so that they feel comfortable, you then offer them a drink. This is why it is important to know in advance what your guests drink so that you have exactly what they enjoy.
3) Let them know where the powder bath is and place guest towels in it for their use. As your hors d'oevres are laid out bring your guests to a comfortable seating area where everyone can enjoy the cocktail hour. Keep the cocktail hour exactly as it is referred to - 1 hour - prior to serving dinner. You never want to rush guests from the door to the table.
4)As cooking has its timing so does entertaining. When it is time for serving dinner, bring your guests to the table assisting where they should be seated. You may have prearranged named place cards if you prefer certain people together or decide to let your guests sit wherever they feel comfortable. It is my preference to announce where my husband and I are seated and then invite my guests to sit where they would like in between. If you see hesitation on their part, then guide them.
5)While seated, remember to always check for refills with water, wine and bread. If there is an opportunity to serve seconds, then offer this to your guests. Remember to remove plates only when all your guests are finished with that particular course. Pass the butter if you think they need it; offer the salt and pepper; pass the bread if their bread plate is empty. Muster conversation that includes everyone.
6)Wait a little in between finishing the main meal and serving dessert. Offer coffee or tea (be sure to have cream or milk, low cal sweetner, sugar, and lemon, available.
7)Offer to leave the table to another room where you can serve after-dinner drinks and continue the conversation until your guests are ready to depart.
Your attentiveness to your guests' every need is the most important part to "entertaining" properly.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Saturday, November 20, 2010
A Nanny speaks of Gratitude and Loss in the Spirit of Thanksgiving
Ever so often a Nanny will write me about her personal experience with a family. This one was particularly touching as a loss in the family takes place.
Dear Marta:
"Just want to let you know how grateful I am for you to continue to be offering these classes for Nannies and Housekeepers. In 25 years of working as a Nanny I never heard of an agency caring so much for the professional development of their domestic clients. Most of the time they just care about the paying client and not the nannies or the housekeepers.
I'm still working for the family that you placed me with almost 4 years ago next January).
As you probably know they had twins last June(boy and girl) but the baby girl passed away a week after she was born.It was the most difficult experience I ever went through as a Nanny cause I had to be very strong for Gigi and her new brother Jordan. That meant I had to put my chance to grieve for the loss of the little girl I was so looking forward to taking care of and be there for the family.
I was honored when they asked me to represent their grandparents in their daughter's funeral but it wasn't easy having to throw dust on the little casket cause I didn't get to see her and say goodbye. Last time I saw her she was a healthy little baby at the hospital.
I had lots of support from my family and friends and with the grace of God I was able to pull through to be emotionally strong and to be there for this wonderful family.
Gabriel is 3 years old now and is in school full time so I spent most of the day with the little guy who is now almost 5 months. What a joy he is!
These are the best kids I ever took care of. They tell me to leave on time but I just love them so much that it's hard to leave sometimes so I end up staying later.
In the spirit of thanksgiving this month I just want you to know how thankful I am for you placing me with this family. I still remember the day I called your agency and they told me there was no opening for a live out and only live-in. I asked if I could fill out an application anyway and your assistant said OK. I came in and as soon as I was done completing the form you called me into your office and told me that you had just got a call from your client and that you could send me on an interview with them that following Saturday.
I met with them that Saturday afternoon and I fell in love with the baby and their dogs at first sight and by Sunday afternoon I had a job offer from them. I was so happy. I knew it was the perfect job then. I was still working for another family so we had to wait a few weeks for me to get started.
Now it's almost 4 years and I continue to love my job. What a blessing to wake up in the morning and look forward to going to work. How many people can say that?
I am so thankful for God for giving me this job. And thankful he led me to your agency that day even though there was no live out open position.
That tells me something...
With God everything is possible...
Thank you again Marta for being so dedicated in your work and for caring for us Nanny so much.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and may God bless you with lots of joy and abundance."
Grace G.
http://www.martaperrone.com
Dear Marta:
"Just want to let you know how grateful I am for you to continue to be offering these classes for Nannies and Housekeepers. In 25 years of working as a Nanny I never heard of an agency caring so much for the professional development of their domestic clients. Most of the time they just care about the paying client and not the nannies or the housekeepers.
I'm still working for the family that you placed me with almost 4 years ago next January).
As you probably know they had twins last June(boy and girl) but the baby girl passed away a week after she was born.It was the most difficult experience I ever went through as a Nanny cause I had to be very strong for Gigi and her new brother Jordan. That meant I had to put my chance to grieve for the loss of the little girl I was so looking forward to taking care of and be there for the family.
I was honored when they asked me to represent their grandparents in their daughter's funeral but it wasn't easy having to throw dust on the little casket cause I didn't get to see her and say goodbye. Last time I saw her she was a healthy little baby at the hospital.
I had lots of support from my family and friends and with the grace of God I was able to pull through to be emotionally strong and to be there for this wonderful family.
Gabriel is 3 years old now and is in school full time so I spent most of the day with the little guy who is now almost 5 months. What a joy he is!
These are the best kids I ever took care of. They tell me to leave on time but I just love them so much that it's hard to leave sometimes so I end up staying later.
In the spirit of thanksgiving this month I just want you to know how thankful I am for you placing me with this family. I still remember the day I called your agency and they told me there was no opening for a live out and only live-in. I asked if I could fill out an application anyway and your assistant said OK. I came in and as soon as I was done completing the form you called me into your office and told me that you had just got a call from your client and that you could send me on an interview with them that following Saturday.
I met with them that Saturday afternoon and I fell in love with the baby and their dogs at first sight and by Sunday afternoon I had a job offer from them. I was so happy. I knew it was the perfect job then. I was still working for another family so we had to wait a few weeks for me to get started.
Now it's almost 4 years and I continue to love my job. What a blessing to wake up in the morning and look forward to going to work. How many people can say that?
I am so thankful for God for giving me this job. And thankful he led me to your agency that day even though there was no live out open position.
That tells me something...
With God everything is possible...
Thank you again Marta for being so dedicated in your work and for caring for us Nanny so much.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and may God bless you with lots of joy and abundance."
Grace G.
http://www.martaperrone.com
Durable Dishtowels
I was in need of some new dishtowels as we rarely put cooking utensils pots and pans and other china in the dishwasher preferring to do them by hand It is a shared experience with my husband regardless of who made that night's dinner.
After sorting through the many choices at my local Bed Bath and Beyond, I chose Calphalon brand towels. I found the pattern more to my liking and they were about $1 more, but as importantly they were about 20 sq. inches larger and seem more absorbent and of a higher quality cotton. The fact is we typically replace our dishtowels only under duress or after a kitchen redo.
When they have been through the washer and dryer a few times I will tell you all how they are holding up.
Weekly I review cleaning products and tools for the home on my website.
http://www.martaperrone.com
After sorting through the many choices at my local Bed Bath and Beyond, I chose Calphalon brand towels. I found the pattern more to my liking and they were about $1 more, but as importantly they were about 20 sq. inches larger and seem more absorbent and of a higher quality cotton. The fact is we typically replace our dishtowels only under duress or after a kitchen redo.
When they have been through the washer and dryer a few times I will tell you all how they are holding up.
Weekly I review cleaning products and tools for the home on my website.
http://www.martaperrone.com
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Sunday, November 14, 2010
A Dinner Party with Marta Perrone - Step 2 - Choosing a Menu and Theme
When you begin choosing a menu and theme for your dinner party, here are some tips:
1)Choose a menu that has significance for your guests. It may be someone's favorite meal, birthday, anniversary or engagement. It may be related to one's ethnic background.
2)Choose a theme that relates to a holiday like Valentine's Day or Halloween, Christmas, Hanukkah, or Thanksgiving. All these holidays have colors associated with them. You can be creative by adding decorations creating a table around the theme.
3) Once you select the occasion you want to celebrate for your dinner party, consider what foods go best always keeping in mind the season. There are various foods that are best for the Fall or Summer, while hearty foods are welcomed in the Winter.
4) Most importantly, choose a menu that you know how to make, and do not make it for the first time for your guests (unless you have the ability of a professional chef). It is always best to have prepared the meal at least one time before so that you are very clear as to how each course is prepared and the timing needed for it.
5) Consider how the foods will look on the plate. For example, it is good to have a green and yellow or orange vegetable together. When making a salad, consider the ingredients and not only how they all taste together but how they look on the plate.
6) Consider what foods your guests can or cannot eat due to taste or allergies.
7) Plan your menu for a minimum of 3 courses (i.e., Course 1-salad/soup, Course 2-Meat, Fish, Chicken or Pasta, Course 3 - Dessert). It can be overwhelming serving too many courses at a sit down dinner unless you have help to assist you.
8) Get ideas of meal variations from Food magazines & the Food Network. They will illustrate meal choices suggesting how certain foods can be combined for a more savory overall meal.
Next step....Setting Your Table. Stay tuned.
1. CHOOSING YOUR GUEST LIST CAREFULLY
2. SELECTING A MENU AND THEME FOR PARTY
3. TABLE SETTING
4. GROCERY LISTS & SHOPPING
5. FOOD PREPARATION
6. COOKING YOUR MEAL
7. SERVING YOUR GUESTS
8. ENTERTAINING YOUR GUESTS
9. DESSERT
10. CLEAN UP
READ MORE - http://www.martaperrone.com
READ MORE AT: www.MartaPerrone.com
1)Choose a menu that has significance for your guests. It may be someone's favorite meal, birthday, anniversary or engagement. It may be related to one's ethnic background.
2)Choose a theme that relates to a holiday like Valentine's Day or Halloween, Christmas, Hanukkah, or Thanksgiving. All these holidays have colors associated with them. You can be creative by adding decorations creating a table around the theme.
3) Once you select the occasion you want to celebrate for your dinner party, consider what foods go best always keeping in mind the season. There are various foods that are best for the Fall or Summer, while hearty foods are welcomed in the Winter.
4) Most importantly, choose a menu that you know how to make, and do not make it for the first time for your guests (unless you have the ability of a professional chef). It is always best to have prepared the meal at least one time before so that you are very clear as to how each course is prepared and the timing needed for it.
5) Consider how the foods will look on the plate. For example, it is good to have a green and yellow or orange vegetable together. When making a salad, consider the ingredients and not only how they all taste together but how they look on the plate.
6) Consider what foods your guests can or cannot eat due to taste or allergies.
7) Plan your menu for a minimum of 3 courses (i.e., Course 1-salad/soup, Course 2-Meat, Fish, Chicken or Pasta, Course 3 - Dessert). It can be overwhelming serving too many courses at a sit down dinner unless you have help to assist you.
8) Get ideas of meal variations from Food magazines & the Food Network. They will illustrate meal choices suggesting how certain foods can be combined for a more savory overall meal.
Next step....Setting Your Table. Stay tuned.
1. CHOOSING YOUR GUEST LIST CAREFULLY
2. SELECTING A MENU AND THEME FOR PARTY
3. TABLE SETTING
4. GROCERY LISTS & SHOPPING
5. FOOD PREPARATION
6. COOKING YOUR MEAL
7. SERVING YOUR GUESTS
8. ENTERTAINING YOUR GUESTS
9. DESSERT
10. CLEAN UP
READ MORE - http://www.martaperrone.com
READ MORE AT: www.MartaPerrone.com
Friday, November 12, 2010
Planning a Dinner Party
Choosing your Guest List is the first step to making your party a success.
1) Pull out your address book and look through it from A-Z. Start with the following questions to help you narrow the list: Who haven't you seen lately? Who has invited you over or out to dinner that you would like to reciprocate? Who would be a good business contact for you that you want to get to know better? Once you have selected one or two people, then build your guest list around them.
2) Make sure that the others selected have similar interests (recreational sports, travel, business-related, charities, membership to organizations) so that the conversation can begin.
3) Consider their personalities, political interests, and religion so that the conversation doesn't turn ugly. For example, if you invite someone who is loud and boisterous with someone who is more on the quiet side, this could be a problem for the others, particularly the quiet one. If you invite someone for example who is a staunch Republican and group this person with a raving Liberal, it could either turn into a very passionate and aggressive conversation or shut down the desire to converse. If you group a very religious person with an Atheist who is outspoken, someone might feel uncomfortable.
4) Consider their ages and energy level. Older people tend to like to arrive early, eat early and leave after dinner. However, you may find an elderly guest is youthful, energetic and eager to participate in a longer evening with others of all ages. (You just don't want your guest falling asleep at the table or couch and causing a domino effect on the others.)
5) Consider how many people you want to entertain at one time. If you are not hiring help in the kitchen to cook and clean, then a party of 6-8 people is perfect. When the list turns to 10-12 people, it really becomes difficult to get food served and the clean up is that much harder. With a smaller group, it is not only easier for you to cook, serve and clean, it is also easier for everyone to discuss things as a group and carry on one conversation at the table.
6) Now pick up the phone and check on availability, this is the real trick. Hopefully all the people you want to invite as a group will be available on the same date. Give people as much notice as possible to help ensure availability.
Now that you have your list, Step 2 will be choosing the menu. Stay tuned!
http://www.martaperrone.com
1) Pull out your address book and look through it from A-Z. Start with the following questions to help you narrow the list: Who haven't you seen lately? Who has invited you over or out to dinner that you would like to reciprocate? Who would be a good business contact for you that you want to get to know better? Once you have selected one or two people, then build your guest list around them.
2) Make sure that the others selected have similar interests (recreational sports, travel, business-related, charities, membership to organizations) so that the conversation can begin.
3) Consider their personalities, political interests, and religion so that the conversation doesn't turn ugly. For example, if you invite someone who is loud and boisterous with someone who is more on the quiet side, this could be a problem for the others, particularly the quiet one. If you invite someone for example who is a staunch Republican and group this person with a raving Liberal, it could either turn into a very passionate and aggressive conversation or shut down the desire to converse. If you group a very religious person with an Atheist who is outspoken, someone might feel uncomfortable.
4) Consider their ages and energy level. Older people tend to like to arrive early, eat early and leave after dinner. However, you may find an elderly guest is youthful, energetic and eager to participate in a longer evening with others of all ages. (You just don't want your guest falling asleep at the table or couch and causing a domino effect on the others.)
5) Consider how many people you want to entertain at one time. If you are not hiring help in the kitchen to cook and clean, then a party of 6-8 people is perfect. When the list turns to 10-12 people, it really becomes difficult to get food served and the clean up is that much harder. With a smaller group, it is not only easier for you to cook, serve and clean, it is also easier for everyone to discuss things as a group and carry on one conversation at the table.
6) Now pick up the phone and check on availability, this is the real trick. Hopefully all the people you want to invite as a group will be available on the same date. Give people as much notice as possible to help ensure availability.
Now that you have your list, Step 2 will be choosing the menu. Stay tuned!
http://www.martaperrone.com
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