At the time of writing it is mid morning of 7th May and I am still following the closest General Election in living memory. We have entered a power vacuum. Who presently runs Britain, who is making the decisions and what of our "first past the post" electoral system? Now the horse trading begins.
Conservative leader David Cameron has come closest to victory however an outright majority of seats in the House of Commons seems to have eluded him. With approximately 36% of the total votes cast, the Conservatives are the largest single party. However with a combined 62% of votes, the Liberal Democrats and Labour could proportionately represent the largest block in Parliament. However as things stand 36% gives the Tories 291 seats and 62% results in 299 Labour and Liberal Democrat seats. Neither result leads to a majority of 326 parlimentary seats with which to form the next government.
What should each of the three main parties do? As I sit down to ponder each scenario with feet outstretched on my footstool and an expresso in hand my overriding view is that coalition government is the most likely outcome.
David Cameron needs to form a coalition with like minded representatives of the Scottish Nationalists and Ulster Parties where potentially 16 seats are up for grabs. Assuming the Conservatives gain 308 - 310 seats of their own, then a combination of support from these two parties may just enable the Tories to form a new administration. If Cameron is able to secure the support of any other newly elected independent MPs he may just secure the majority he requires.
Having said all that I believe a new government consisting of Labour, the Liberal Democrats and a combination of the Scottish and Welsh Nationalists with some independents is also a real possibility. As stated, Labour and the Liberal Democrats have a genuine mandate from 62% of the electorate. And the reason for this analysis is that both parties are in favour of a form of proportional representation as an urgent solution to the inequalities of the present electoral system. Potentially, Gordon Brown of Labour and Nick Clegg of the Liberal Democrats will form a coalition to demand that immediate legislation is introduced to remove the "first past the post system" which disenfranchises a large proportion of the UK electorate. With a majority of more than 326 supporting MPs, the voting system may be changed and another election called. Then we will then see enhanced democracy in Britain and a new era of coalition and concensus government.
The author is taking a close interest in the General Election campaign as he runs a number of furniture businesses whose future prosperity depends on the right calls being made by whichever government comes to power.
Friday, 7 May 2010
Sunday, 2 May 2010
Footstools and why every home should have one.
Footstools are basically low stools for the feet, constructed out of wood and rigid foam that are large enough to rest and relax legs and feet. Some foot stools are designed with small feet or legs that keep feet in a low position relative to sitting. The effect is to allow the smooth flow of blood to the feet especially when the recipient is undergoing therapy or recovering from injury.
A typical "footstool user" enjoys putting his or her feet up! People all over the world have appreciated the physical and mental benefits of footstools for many centuries. They were present in the bathhouses of Rome and the spas of Victorian England, popular for their well-proven relaxation and healing properties. Today footstools are a regular feature of most private homes. In the past, only wealthy people could afford to have them. More recently, footstools have become much more reasonably priced and generally available to the majority of the population.
Relaxation via a foot rest is well known to have a soothing effect, both physically and for well being. Tense muscles become relaxed, anxiety dissipates and moods vastly improve after a long rest on a footstool. Such comforting effects make footstools perfect pieces of furniture to unwind with after a long hard day. Most seasoned footstool owners enjoy putting their feet up and relaxing with a good film, a nice bottle of finest red wine in front of a roaring fire and a good book to delve into.
The health and medical reasons for "putting your feet up" should not be under estimated. Aching leg muscles need increased circulatory and cardiovascular
attention to remove lactic acid build up thus avoiding the dreaded outcome of stiffness on waking the following morning. Injured muscles require oxygen replenishment and this is greatly encouraged by an upright footstool, placed horizontally to the seating position. An outstretched (180 Degrees leg position) enhances blood circulation and improves the likelihood of rapid muscle tissue repair. Top sports stars are encouraged to use footstools particularly when nursing calf, achilles or thigh injuries. For the elderly the health giving benefits of regular footstool use are incalculable. Many doctors prescribe a course of footstool therapy to improve vascular circulation resulting in less heart stress and lower blood pressure.
The medical profession have demonstrated that with judicial and regular use of footstools, the overall repair of joints, muscles and tendons is much improved. What appears to be a relatively innocuous piece of household furniture can be worth its weight in gold for its beneficial effects, both physical and mental. The result of employing a footstool help to improve blood circulation serves to reduce pain and inflammation. Whether for aesthetic or life affirming consequences, buying a footstool to help remedy the every day pressures of life is an essential household investment.
The author has over 20 years experience running companies involved in furnishing fabrics and furniture manufacturing and has recently been specialising in company start ups
A typical "footstool user" enjoys putting his or her feet up! People all over the world have appreciated the physical and mental benefits of footstools for many centuries. They were present in the bathhouses of Rome and the spas of Victorian England, popular for their well-proven relaxation and healing properties. Today footstools are a regular feature of most private homes. In the past, only wealthy people could afford to have them. More recently, footstools have become much more reasonably priced and generally available to the majority of the population.
Relaxation via a foot rest is well known to have a soothing effect, both physically and for well being. Tense muscles become relaxed, anxiety dissipates and moods vastly improve after a long rest on a footstool. Such comforting effects make footstools perfect pieces of furniture to unwind with after a long hard day. Most seasoned footstool owners enjoy putting their feet up and relaxing with a good film, a nice bottle of finest red wine in front of a roaring fire and a good book to delve into.
The health and medical reasons for "putting your feet up" should not be under estimated. Aching leg muscles need increased circulatory and cardiovascular
attention to remove lactic acid build up thus avoiding the dreaded outcome of stiffness on waking the following morning. Injured muscles require oxygen replenishment and this is greatly encouraged by an upright footstool, placed horizontally to the seating position. An outstretched (180 Degrees leg position) enhances blood circulation and improves the likelihood of rapid muscle tissue repair. Top sports stars are encouraged to use footstools particularly when nursing calf, achilles or thigh injuries. For the elderly the health giving benefits of regular footstool use are incalculable. Many doctors prescribe a course of footstool therapy to improve vascular circulation resulting in less heart stress and lower blood pressure.
The medical profession have demonstrated that with judicial and regular use of footstools, the overall repair of joints, muscles and tendons is much improved. What appears to be a relatively innocuous piece of household furniture can be worth its weight in gold for its beneficial effects, both physical and mental. The result of employing a footstool help to improve blood circulation serves to reduce pain and inflammation. Whether for aesthetic or life affirming consequences, buying a footstool to help remedy the every day pressures of life is an essential household investment.
The author has over 20 years experience running companies involved in furnishing fabrics and furniture manufacturing and has recently been specialising in company start ups
Tuesday, 27 April 2010
Watching the General Election with my Feet Up!
As we approach the finishing line of the struggle between right and left, the clash of the egos and the final call to vote, how many of us will be putting our feet up during the closing stages of the forthcoming Election? Gordon Brown, Nick Clegg and David Cameron will most certainly not be relaxing until after May 6th when the voters of Britain decide who will form the next government. As an antidote to windbagging politicians droning on and on and on, uncork a bottle of your finest, take the weight off your legs and relax your feet on a footstool.
The 2010 General Election has just over a week to go before the decision is made about who should be given the keys to 10 Downing Street. This Election campaign
has been just about the most interesting I can remember with no single political party claiming more than about a third of poll support. The current talk is of a "hung parliament" where no one party assumes a clear majority of Members of Parliament. This brings into focus the prospect of a coalition government where "horse trading" and "back alley deals" become order of the day. Alliances are quickly established and bitter rivals are forced together by circumstances. With a reported UK debt over £160 billion, how quickly the personalities of government
come together around a table of consensus will be heavily scrutinised by all the financial markets. Funding an overdraft is never easy but one this size will exercise the great minds (and smaller minds!)of today.
The final television debate on Thursday assumes huge importance. How "presidential" will the candidates appear? Who can look into the camera with total sincerity and connect with the electorate? Which of the three Prime Ministerial candidates can persuade the voter that a tick in the box for him will result in a better Britain? All these questions will be decided on May 7th when either a Labour, Conservative or Liberal Democrat administration (or more likely a combination of any two of these!) will whistle off down the Mall to meet with the Queen. The successful candidate may well have some explaining to do! He will most certainly be in need of a relaxing footstool.
The author is taking a close interest in this General Election campaign as he runs a number of furniture businesses whose future prosperity depends on the right calls being made by whichever government comes to power on May 7th.
The 2010 General Election has just over a week to go before the decision is made about who should be given the keys to 10 Downing Street. This Election campaign
has been just about the most interesting I can remember with no single political party claiming more than about a third of poll support. The current talk is of a "hung parliament" where no one party assumes a clear majority of Members of Parliament. This brings into focus the prospect of a coalition government where "horse trading" and "back alley deals" become order of the day. Alliances are quickly established and bitter rivals are forced together by circumstances. With a reported UK debt over £160 billion, how quickly the personalities of government
come together around a table of consensus will be heavily scrutinised by all the financial markets. Funding an overdraft is never easy but one this size will exercise the great minds (and smaller minds!)of today.
The final television debate on Thursday assumes huge importance. How "presidential" will the candidates appear? Who can look into the camera with total sincerity and connect with the electorate? Which of the three Prime Ministerial candidates can persuade the voter that a tick in the box for him will result in a better Britain? All these questions will be decided on May 7th when either a Labour, Conservative or Liberal Democrat administration (or more likely a combination of any two of these!) will whistle off down the Mall to meet with the Queen. The successful candidate may well have some explaining to do! He will most certainly be in need of a relaxing footstool.
The author is taking a close interest in this General Election campaign as he runs a number of furniture businesses whose future prosperity depends on the right calls being made by whichever government comes to power on May 7th.
Sunday, 18 April 2010
Large footstool suggestions
Such is the range on offer from various internet providers that even the largest footstool makes a welcome addition to any living room. A large footstool is a particularly valuable piece of furniture and benefits the homeowner by offering additional seating capacity during busy family get together. The size works well in a sizable room where a large footstool fills the spaces between sofas, chairs and tables. The presence of a large footstool is welcome where a roaring fire enables many people to put their feet up on what becomes "the central feature" of the room. Relaxation and bonhomie ensue.
It should always be remembered that a large footstool is an essential piece of furniture when weary limbs crave the moment to be rest. When tiredness can no longer be resisted “putting your feet up” on such a large receptacle of relaxation becomes the order of the day. Large footstools can indeed be used for dual purposes - informal seating, accent tables - in addition to their traditional, formal uses. A well designed large footstool will make a substantial decorating statement. Size matters! When you need to go large then it is a large footstool you need!
There is no point positioning your large footstool in anything but a large room. Stylish large footstools enhance the décor and what is most important is the upholstery choice. A bright, vibrant fabric selection will enhance almost any surroundings.
What further compliments the large footstool is the choice of feet and legs. The primary selection is between metal or wooden legs however within these options lay further choices. When choosing wood the discerning customer can ask for “turned” or “contemporary” legs. To enhance the choice metal or brass castors may be selected. Alternatively a fully “metallic” leg may be selected. This can include a “turned leg in metallic finish with chrome castors” or the sumptuous “tall polished metal leg”
Finally the height is an important facet of the large footstool choice. For instance a tall contemporary leg can give your footstool the presence it deserves. If the footstool is also to be used for occasional seating a minimum sitting height of 14" (36cm) is recommended. In conclusion whichever room you decide to place your large footstool it deserves to be shown in its full splendour and in the most palatial of surroundings!
It should always be remembered that a large footstool is an essential piece of furniture when weary limbs crave the moment to be rest. When tiredness can no longer be resisted “putting your feet up” on such a large receptacle of relaxation becomes the order of the day. Large footstools can indeed be used for dual purposes - informal seating, accent tables - in addition to their traditional, formal uses. A well designed large footstool will make a substantial decorating statement. Size matters! When you need to go large then it is a large footstool you need!
There is no point positioning your large footstool in anything but a large room. Stylish large footstools enhance the décor and what is most important is the upholstery choice. A bright, vibrant fabric selection will enhance almost any surroundings.
What further compliments the large footstool is the choice of feet and legs. The primary selection is between metal or wooden legs however within these options lay further choices. When choosing wood the discerning customer can ask for “turned” or “contemporary” legs. To enhance the choice metal or brass castors may be selected. Alternatively a fully “metallic” leg may be selected. This can include a “turned leg in metallic finish with chrome castors” or the sumptuous “tall polished metal leg”
Finally the height is an important facet of the large footstool choice. For instance a tall contemporary leg can give your footstool the presence it deserves. If the footstool is also to be used for occasional seating a minimum sitting height of 14" (36cm) is recommended. In conclusion whichever room you decide to place your large footstool it deserves to be shown in its full splendour and in the most palatial of surroundings!
Sunday, 11 April 2010
Portsmouth FC and the Ottomans
While Portsmouth Football Club are facing up to administration and life in The Championship, researcher Oktan Keles claims the club was established by Sultan Abdülhamit II to conduct intelligence reports in Britain during the latter years of the Ottoman Empire. The Turkish influence at the club was such that Portsmouth FC also adopted a "crescent" in its club badge.
The information came to light when Keles, a writer on Turkish affairs, was researching papers on Abdülhamit II on the build up to the First World War. In the early years of the Twentieth Century Great Britain was known to use sporting and cultural occasions to gather intelligence information. In an effort to redress the balance the Sultan employed some of the Portsmouth players to gather information relevant to Ottoman Empire interests.
Prior to the outbreak of war in 1914, relations between Britain and Turkey were not good. Turkey blamed Britain for stirring up incidents of unrest in the Balkans and the dominence of the Royal Navy in the Eastern Mediterranean was a persistent irritant to the Turks.
What information was forthcoming from Portsmouth appears to have had little effect on the course of history. When I put my feet up tonight on my footstool to watch the Portsmouth versus Tottenham FA Cup semi final I shall raise my glass to Sultan Abdülhamit II for his contibution to English football.
The information came to light when Keles, a writer on Turkish affairs, was researching papers on Abdülhamit II on the build up to the First World War. In the early years of the Twentieth Century Great Britain was known to use sporting and cultural occasions to gather intelligence information. In an effort to redress the balance the Sultan employed some of the Portsmouth players to gather information relevant to Ottoman Empire interests.
Prior to the outbreak of war in 1914, relations between Britain and Turkey were not good. Turkey blamed Britain for stirring up incidents of unrest in the Balkans and the dominence of the Royal Navy in the Eastern Mediterranean was a persistent irritant to the Turks.
What information was forthcoming from Portsmouth appears to have had little effect on the course of history. When I put my feet up tonight on my footstool to watch the Portsmouth versus Tottenham FA Cup semi final I shall raise my glass to Sultan Abdülhamit II for his contibution to English football.
Sunday, 21 March 2010
Guide to Buying a Footstool Online
The footstool started out as something practical, but over the years it has evolved into something simply "decor". Over time, the theme of footstools seemed pretty consistent: small, made of wood, used as a foot-propper or a stair-stepper. Today the footstool is emerging as a separate class of furniture in its own right. It can now be used as something to sit on, place something on, hide something in, or as a decorative piece for an entire room.
With a choice so wide there is no better place to search for your new footstool than on the Internet. The range is large enough to satisfy any discerning furniture shopper and with fabric or leather footstools to choose from online shopping is unsurpassed. The footstool can be ordered in various sizes. Its shape can be organised to fit into the smallest or largest of spaces and the height of the footstool can be varied by an excellent choice of appropriate legs and feet. No suite of sofas and chairs should ever be without a footstool.
The footstool should be a central point of relaxation, becoming an oasis of calm after yet another weary day at work. Even if you can only grab yourself a few minutes of “quality time” ensure that you gather up your footstool and take the weight off your feet just for a few moments.
Style is also an important part of choosing a footstool, since you will want the piece to compliment the rest of your decor. Will a boxy footstool that is flush with the ground co-ordinate better with the clean lines of your existing furniture, or is your style more traditional, making a footstool with carved legs a better choice?
When selecting a footstool it is a good idea to apply pressure to it or to sit down on it to make sure it is sturdy. Don't forget to measure the width of the footstool to make sure it won't be too large and feel awkward in your space. Measure the height as well to ensure that your feet will rest comfortably when sitting on your chair or sofa. Price is a consideration and the internet provides the ideal platform from which to compare the market place. In this way you will soon find the perfect footstool custom designed to your taste, specifications, and your budget.
No matter where you decide to purchase your footstool, or even if you decide to build one yourself, function, style, and value are the key elements to bear in mind prior to making that all important purchase descision.
With a choice so wide there is no better place to search for your new footstool than on the Internet. The range is large enough to satisfy any discerning furniture shopper and with fabric or leather footstools to choose from online shopping is unsurpassed. The footstool can be ordered in various sizes. Its shape can be organised to fit into the smallest or largest of spaces and the height of the footstool can be varied by an excellent choice of appropriate legs and feet. No suite of sofas and chairs should ever be without a footstool.
The footstool should be a central point of relaxation, becoming an oasis of calm after yet another weary day at work. Even if you can only grab yourself a few minutes of “quality time” ensure that you gather up your footstool and take the weight off your feet just for a few moments.
Style is also an important part of choosing a footstool, since you will want the piece to compliment the rest of your decor. Will a boxy footstool that is flush with the ground co-ordinate better with the clean lines of your existing furniture, or is your style more traditional, making a footstool with carved legs a better choice?
When selecting a footstool it is a good idea to apply pressure to it or to sit down on it to make sure it is sturdy. Don't forget to measure the width of the footstool to make sure it won't be too large and feel awkward in your space. Measure the height as well to ensure that your feet will rest comfortably when sitting on your chair or sofa. Price is a consideration and the internet provides the ideal platform from which to compare the market place. In this way you will soon find the perfect footstool custom designed to your taste, specifications, and your budget.
No matter where you decide to purchase your footstool, or even if you decide to build one yourself, function, style, and value are the key elements to bear in mind prior to making that all important purchase descision.
Monday, 15 March 2010
Footstools and the Erotic
The perfect solution for large rooms is to present a bench footstool. Whether for practical purposes or simply as a gift, bench footstools or “benchstools” combine elements of size and practicality to help make your room complete as they offer both style and functionality.
Not only can two or more people use a benchstool as a footrest they can employ it for seating or to function as a low table. Originally bench stools were modified furniture pieces or contraptions used for various judicial corporal punishments and erotiscism.
The 19th century dominatrix, Mrs. Theresa Berkley became famous for her invention of the Berkley Horse, a multi-functional device which combined being a spanking bench with several other functions. Berkley, made an estimated £15000 (£1.5 million in todays money) during the eight years in which she operated her flagellatory brothel in Charlotte Street, London.
The spanking bench or spanking horse was a piece of furniture whereby a spankee was
positioned for punishment, with or without restraints. The spanking bench was employed in the practice of erotic spanking with either Mrs Berkley or one of her female operatives supervising the practice of sadomasocichistic activity over her (largely) male clientele.
Fetish benchstools have developed over time and come in many sizes and styles, the most popular of which is similar to the original sawhorse with a padded top and rings for restraints. They are located in clubs where the spanking community socialise to enjoy their unique and fascinating activities, away from the prescence of "prying eyes".
Many such items currently available to buy on the net and are designed to perfectly coordinate with room colour schemes. Appropriate bench and footstools combine the practicality of hardwearing yet easy to clean faux leather. Fine upholstery and workmanship add to the allure of these erotic stools whether they are applied to significant recreational activity or are seen as pieces of artistic furniture.
The author has over 20 years experience running companies involved in furnishing fabrics and furniture manufacturing and has recently been specialising in company start ups
Not only can two or more people use a benchstool as a footrest they can employ it for seating or to function as a low table. Originally bench stools were modified furniture pieces or contraptions used for various judicial corporal punishments and erotiscism.
The 19th century dominatrix, Mrs. Theresa Berkley became famous for her invention of the Berkley Horse, a multi-functional device which combined being a spanking bench with several other functions. Berkley, made an estimated £15000 (£1.5 million in todays money) during the eight years in which she operated her flagellatory brothel in Charlotte Street, London.
The spanking bench or spanking horse was a piece of furniture whereby a spankee was
positioned for punishment, with or without restraints. The spanking bench was employed in the practice of erotic spanking with either Mrs Berkley or one of her female operatives supervising the practice of sadomasocichistic activity over her (largely) male clientele.
Fetish benchstools have developed over time and come in many sizes and styles, the most popular of which is similar to the original sawhorse with a padded top and rings for restraints. They are located in clubs where the spanking community socialise to enjoy their unique and fascinating activities, away from the prescence of "prying eyes".
Many such items currently available to buy on the net and are designed to perfectly coordinate with room colour schemes. Appropriate bench and footstools combine the practicality of hardwearing yet easy to clean faux leather. Fine upholstery and workmanship add to the allure of these erotic stools whether they are applied to significant recreational activity or are seen as pieces of artistic furniture.
The author has over 20 years experience running companies involved in furnishing fabrics and furniture manufacturing and has recently been specialising in company start ups
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