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your stuff own you

2004-08-25T20:59:00.000-07:00

By Mary Hunt
Source: The Cincinnati Post

What would you do if you had to actually use -- or at least enjoy -- everything you own? All of that stuff in the drawers, cupboards, closets, shelves and boxes in your kitchen, bedroom, living room, basement, attic, garage, back yard and car?

Most of us would never live long enough to accomplish such an overwhelming task. So what do we do instead? We pack it, stack it and pile it away. We even pay rent to store it and then continue accumulating more.

Vilfredo Pareto, an Italian economist, "discovered" the 80/20 principle by observing that 80 percent of the land in England (and every country he subsequently studied) was owned by 20 percent of the population.

Pareto's theory of predictable imbalance has since been widely proven and applied to almost every aspect of modern life.

To wit, 80 percent of what we use comes from 20 percent of what we own. That means 80 percent of the space in our lives is occupied by stuff we never use.

It's clutter.

You might think you own all that stuff you neither need nor use. But, in reality, it owns you.

Every possession carries two price tags, the original purchase price and the continuing toll.

That second amount is paid in upkeep, attention, time, safekeeping, maintenance and storage.

Such clutter not only fills up our available space, but also negatively impacts our lives. The cost is levied in anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, financial distress and even impaired functionality.

Recently, I heard from a woman who had finally had it with all her clutter, loaded it up (two truckloads), and headed for the flea market. Excited that she could possibly net $800 to $1,000 for one weekend of selling, she quickly changed her attitude as she realized her prices were barely 5 or 10 percent of the price she paid.

Her mind drifted to the time she'd spent earning the money to buy all of the belongings; the afternoons wasted shopping; and the effort to lug it all home. She figured that even if she made $1,000 on this effort, she'd spent at least $10,000 to purchase it. For her, that was little less than one year's take-home salary. That day she vowed to never buy anything again unless it was absolutely necessary.

Ask yourself a series of questions to decide if it's clutter or not: Does it work? If not, get rid of it. Do I really need it? Things we need we use. Do I enjoy it? If this item brings beauty and joy to your life, it is not clutter.

Sentimental belongings and things that bring true beauty to our lives should be treated with great care and respect -- not packed away in the attic to be forgotten.

Getting rid of the physical clutter in your home is going to do more than free up some much-needed space. The clean, light, uncomplicated and unshackled feeling will give you a fresh new lease on life.

Mary Hunt is the creator of The Cheapskate Monthly newsletter. You can e-mail questions or tips at cheapskateunitedmedia.com or Everyday Cheapskate, P.O. Box 2135 Paramount, CA 90723.

Using Your Credit Card Online

2004-08-25T20:56:00.000-07:00

By Andrew Shain
Source: The Charlotte Observer, N.C.

It seems that for every person who shops eBay with the comfort of strolling aisles at a Wal-Mart, there's another one or two afraid to even type their credit-card numbers onto a Web page.

Computer users say in surveys that security fears top why they stay away from Internet shopping or online banking.

"Many people don't know what happens with the information on the Web," said George Tubin, a senior analyst with marketing consultant Tower Group. "They just feel more comfortable at the store. They have someone they can hold accountable."

The discovery last week of a security glitch on Mecklenburg County's Web site to pay property taxes did little to soothe folks who think online shopping is risky.

The site had operated for a still undetermined period without scrambling credit-card information. The problem was fixed soon after calls from the Observer. There's no evidence anyone accessed information, but people who used the Mecklenburg system are urged to keep an eye on their credit-card statements.

That said, you can safely spend money over the Web by taking some precautions. You just need to apply some common sense while you shop in your pajamas with a mouse and keyboard.

First some perspective.

The chances of someone stealing your credit card number sent over an unsecured Web site (such as what happened with Mecklenburg) is slightly less than anywhere in the nonelectronic world, said Ted Claypoole, a Charlotte attorney who specializes in technology security issues. Hackers have several obstacles to getting your information, but if they succeed, the numbers are easily read.

A bigger point of attack for hackers is servers where Web operators compile your information to complete purchases, said Jim Brown, managing partner at nGuard, a Charlotte computer security firm.

You'll want to know whether the Web operator continually monitors servers for hacking attempts, he said.

Most big businesses do, though there are breaches. Last month, a hacker gained access to a small number of the 8 million credit card records held by BJ's Wholesale Club.

Just like a waiter who uses an electronic reader to skim information off your card while you're paying for a meal, server attacks are nothing you can prevent.

Your best defense is being a diligent consumer by checking your statements.

You also should:

-- Look for the signs that a Web page is secure when you're asked to share financial information You'll want to see a padlock in the lower right-hand corner of your Web browser and that the Web address starts with "https," not just the usual "http." Both are signs that information you will share will be encrypted and hard for hackers to see. Don't see them? Stop the transaction.

-- Ignore e-mails that look like they come from legitimate businesses asking for financial information or passwords. Real merchants and banks would not have you click a link to some page to share the gateways to your wallet.

The scam, called "phishing," has tried to impersonate eBay, Bank of America, Best Buy and Citibank in recent months.

-- Take a moment to read a site's privacy policy. Reading legal disclaimers is not a hobby for most of us, but you want to know how a site might use information you share with it.

In the end, if you have any questions about security of a Web site, go the low-tech route and call the company.

Andrew Shain covers consumer issues. Reach him at (704) 358-5164 or ashain@charlotteobserver.com

To see more of The Charlotte Observer, or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.charlotte.com.

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Ceiling Fans Recalled

2004-08-25T20:44:00.000-07:00

Vaxcel International Co. Ltd.
Announce Second Recall of Ceiling Fans

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announces the following recall in voluntary cooperation with the firm below. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of product: Ceiling Fans with Light

Manufacturer: Vaxcel International Co. Ltd., of Glendale
Heights, Ill.

Hazard: These ceiling fans were assembled without the proper wire insulation sleeving, which could result in exposed wiring. Consumers could receive an electrical shock during installation or removal.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: These down-rod-mount, dual-motor, 36-inch ceiling fans were sold in chrome, stone white, brush nickel, polished brass, antique brass, or weathered patina finishes. Model number 355-6645 is printed on the box and on a label located on the central housing of the ceiling fan. The brand names of the fans are “Aire Tek” and “Turn-of-the- Century Apollo Series” which is written on the packaging only. A label located on the central housing of the ceiling fan displays the
File Number “E215078,” the UL Listing Mark, and the model number 355-6645. Vaxcel had previously recalled the same model fan sold under the “Aire Tek” brand name.

Sold at: Menard stores nationwide between January 2002 and May 2002 for between $350 and $450.

Manufactured in: Taiwan

Remedy: Consumers should contact Vaxcel to verify if they have one of the recalled ceiling fans and to receive a free replacement ceiling fan if they do. To avoid the risk of shock while checking or removing a recalled fan, consumers should turn off the power source to the fan. Consumers are encouraged to use a professional electrician. Vaxcel will reimburse consumers up to $75 for charges incurred in removing recalled fans.

Consumer Contact: Call Vaxcel at (800) 482-9235 between 9 a.m.
and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday.

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sumptuous

2004-08-25T20:38:00.000-07:00

1. sumptuous - B: Lavish; costly and luxurious; magnificent;
as, an impressively sumptuous celebration. Latin sumptus
(expense).

2. cascade - C: Waterfall descending over a steep and rocky
surface. Also, anything that resembles a waterfall; as, a
cascade of flowers covering the railing. Italian cascata.

3. insatiable - A: Impossible to satisfy; never getting
enough; greedy; as, the leader's insatiable drive for power.
Latin insatiabilis.

4. fetish - D: An object or activity receiving obsessive or
irrational devotion; as, to make a fetish of sports. Latin
facticius (artificial).

5. penchant - B: Strong liking or inclination for something;
as, a penchant for politics. Old French pencher (to incline).

6. explicit - C: Clear and precise, leaving no doubt as to
meaning; as, The general gave an explicit explanation. Latin
ex- (out) and plicare (to fold).

7. arcana - C: Mysteries; information known only to those
involved; as, an attempt to expose a secret society's arcana.
Latin arcere (to shut in).

8. frippery - D: Pretentious showiness in dress or manners;
as, disdain for frippery of any kind. Old French freperie
(old clothes).

9. heinous - A: Outrageously wicked; abominable; hateful; as,
the heinous crimes of the dictator's soldiers. Old French
haine (hatred).

10. nemesis - C: Opponent or problem one cannot overcome;
as, The press became the congressman's nemesis. The Greek
goddess of vengeance was named Nemesis.

11. scurrilous - A: Abusive and insulting; coarse; vulgar;
as, The talk-show host grew tired of the scurrilous attacks
on him. Latin scurrilis (jeering).

12. mendacious - C: Not truthful; lying or false; as, Voters
complained about the mendacious statements of party old-
timers. Latin mendax.

13. vindication - B: Justification; clearance of blame or
guilt; as, the vindication of a controversial policy when it
turns out to be successful. Latin vindicare (to claim).

14. commemorate - D: To honor or celebrate someone or some-
thing; as, Flag Day, June 14, commemorates adoption of the
U.S. flag in 1777. Latin commemorare.

15. meld - B: To merge, blend or unite; as, His graceful
letters melded many different people into a political party.
Blend of melt and weld.

16. mordant - D: Sharply or bitingly sarcastic or cutting;
as, the cartoonist's mordant observations. Latin mordare
(to bite).

17. proselytize - D: To try to convert a person from one
belief or faith to another. Greek proserchesthai (to
approach).

18. duplicity - C: Deceit; deliberate deceptiveness; as, a
broker's duplicity in selling phony stocks. Latin duplex
(twofold).

19. hegemony - B: Dominance of one state or thing over
another; as, Talk shows weaken the hegemony of more conven-
tional organs of opinion. Greek hegemonia (leadership).

20. rant - A: To speak wildly or in a loud, extravagant way;
as, The agitator ranted for hours. Old Dutch ranten (to talk
foolishly).

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diaphanous

2004-08-25T20:37:00.000-07:00

WORD: diaphanous dy-AF-uh-nuhs (adjective)

: Allowing light to pass through

SYNONYMS: * translucent
* transparent
* lucid

WORD WISE: Diaphanous ultimately derives from Greek
diaphanes, showing through, from diaphainein, to show
through, to be transparent, from dia-, though + phainein,
to show, to appear. It is related to phantom, something
apparently sensed but having no physical reality.

QUOTE: "The curtains are thin, a diaphanous membrane that
can't quite contain the light outside."
-- Eric Liu, The Accidental Asian: Notes of a Native Speaker

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Wednesday August 25 2004

2004-08-25T20:29:00.000-07:00

Today is Wednesday, Aug. 25, the 238th day of 2004 with 128
to follow. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are Mercury,
Venus, Uranus and Saturn. The evening stars are Jupiter,
Neptune, Mars and Pluto.

Those born on this date are under the sign of Leo. They
include:

Czar Ivan IV ("Ivan the Terrible") of Russia, in 1530;

Allan Pinkerton, founder of the private detective agency, in
1819;

author Bret Harte in 1836;

dancer/actress Ruby Keeler in 1910;

"Pogo" cartoonist Walt Kelly in 1913;

bandleader/singer Bob Crosby also in 1913;

actors Van Johnson in 1916 (age 88) and Mel Ferrer in 1917
(age 87);

composer/conductor Leonard Bernstein in 1918;

singer Ella Fitzgerald also in 1918;

former Alabama Gov. George Wallace in 1919;

Monty Hall, host of "Let's Make A Deal," in 1923 (age 81);

actor Sean Connery in 1930 (age 74);

talk-show host Regis Philbin in 1934 (age 70);

actress Anne Archer in 1947 (age 57);

actor John Savage and rock singer Gene Simmons of KISS, both
in 1949 (age 55);

singer/songwriter Elvis Costello in 1954 (age 50);

country singer Billy Ray Cyrus ("Achy Breaky Heart") and
actress Ally Walker, both in 1961 (age 43);

actors Blair Underwood and Joanne Whalley, both i n 1964
(age 40);

and supermodel Claudia Schiffer in 1971 (age 33).

On this date in history:

In 1718, the city of New Orleans was founded.

On this date in 1875, Matthew Webb, a 27-year-old British
merchant navy captain, became the first known person to
successfully swim the English Channel.

In 1920, on this date, the 19th Amendment, guaranteeing
women the right to vote, was formally adopted into the U.S.
Constitution.

In 1944, American troops liberated Paris from the Nazis in
World War II.

In 1967, a sniper assassinated American Nazi leader George
Lincoln Rockwell in Arlington, Va.

In 1985, Samantha Smith, 13, was killed with her father and
six other people in a plane crash in Maine. Her 1983 letter
to Soviet President Yuri Andropov about her fear of nuclear
war earned her a visit to the Soviet Union.

In 1990, the U.N. Security Council voted 13-0 to authorize
use of "minimal" force against ships breaking the economic
embargo of Iraq.

In 1991, the Soviet republic of Byelorussia declared
independence.

On this date in history:

In 1992, researchers reported that cigarette smoking
significantly boosts the risk of developing cataracts, a
leading cause of blindness.

Also in 1992, left wing extremists, egged on by Berlin
residents, set fire to a hostel for Vietnamese asylum seekers
during a third night of violence against foreigners.

In 1993, Sheikh Omar Abdel Rahman was indicted by a federal
grand jury in New York in connection with a number of
terrorist activities, including the bombing of the World
Trade Center.

Also in 1993, on Wall Street, the Dow Jones Industrial Average
closed at an all-time high of 3652.09.

In 1994, the Senate followed the House's lead and passed
President Clinton's crime bill.

In 1999, after previously denying it used any such incendiary
devices, the FBI admitted it fired pyrotechnic tear-gas
canisters at the Branch Davidian compound near Waco, Texas,
on the day in 1993 that the standoff came to a fiery end. But
it said the canisters bounced harmlessly off the compound's
outer walls. Which was a lie.

In 2003, at least 45 people died and more than 61 were injured
when two car bombs exploded in a crowded area of Mumbai, near
central Bombay.

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Dishwasher clean mineral deposits

2004-08-25T20:27:00.000-07:00

Dishwashers:

To clean mineral deposits from the inside of your dish-
washer, pour in a container of Tang® Drink Mix and run
the dishwasher (don't put dishes in the dishwasher for
this load). Just run the cycle.

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dishwasher smelling fresh

2004-08-25T20:20:00.000-07:00

Keeping your dishes and dishwasher smelling fresh.

Deodorize dishes, pans, cutting boards or utensils from
awful odors by adding 1/4 cup of lemon juice to your
dishwater.

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window blinds search engine

2004-08-25T19:28:00.000-07:00

Follow the links for the entrance to our cellular shades online store:
Mini Blinds, Wood Blinds, Vertical Blinds, Cellular and Pleated Shades, Roller Shades, Shutters, Curtains, and more!
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buy rug online

2004-08-25T18:02:00.000-07:00

Buy one rug get three rugs free!

Follow the rug link to enter our rug store
> > > Buy 1 Rug, get 3 Free!

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stuff under tile no cracks

2004-07-29T11:15:00.000-07:00

I saw this stuff in a magazine on an airplane. Then I forgot it. A lady at Lowes looked at me like I was from the moon when I tried to explain it. Michael Holigan
saves the day again.

Schlüter ®-DITRA
Ceramic, porcelain, or stone tile installations need to be isolated from adjoining hard surfaces and between the tile and dissimilar surfaces. For that reason, we used a product from Schlüter, called DITRA.

DITRA is a polyethylene membrane with a grid structure of square, cutback cavities and an anchoring fleece laminated to its underside. The Schlüter ®-DITRA separates the floor covering from the substrate and prevents the transfer of stresses to the tiled surface. And if there should be any stress cracks in the substrate, those cracks will not transfer to the tile.

Contact Information:
Dal-Tile
1-800-933-TILE

Schluter
1-800-472-4588

Mike's site I am going to chock this away until I take on the kitchen.

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sun dried tomatoes

2004-07-29T10:49:00.000-07:00

"Sun-drying your own fruits and vegetables saves you money at the supermarket and is a great way to preserve this season's bounty for the rest of the year. Sun-drying takes little effort and little energy, and sun-dried goods only take up a small amount of storage space." This is a blurb from MichaelHoligan.com. I think he is guy an Dyi network. Sorry Michael I never have time to watch TV. But I love you website.

How to sun dried tomatoes.

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warm toes electric floors

2004-07-29T09:50:00.000-07:00

Do it yourself install of electric heated floor for you bathroom.
They say it has been tested so you don't get shocked. I hope so.

WarmlyYours Warming Families

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converting attic

2004-07-28T18:10:00.000-07:00

Sherry posted this:

Dear Gary - Was wondering if you could do an article on converting an
attic for the do-it-yourself frugalite? There is just so much space
there going to waste. I know the electric will have to be hired out
but what can I do to make this a livable space? Nothing too fancy
required. By the way this is an 1880 Victorian house. Thank you, Tanya

The first thing that Tanya will want to do is to contact her local
zoning and building inspector. In many cases, they'll have booklets
available for the homeowner considering remodeling or addition. She'll
want to find out what permits will be needed. They'll also tell her
what type of drawings will be required to get the permits.

Usually the homeowner is allowed to be the 'general contractor'. That
means Tanya will pull the permits and take responsibility for the job.
Don't skip the permits. If it's a big enough job to require permits,
having a professional inspector check the quality of your work is a
good idea. I've already had them request changes that were safety
related.

Tanya will benefit from spending time daydreaming about the project.
Think about the space and how you might use it. Plan ahead. For
instance, it's easier to hide wire for extra phones, computers and
stereo equipment before you enclose the walls with drywall.

Tanya will need a budget before she begins the project. That budget
will have a major effect on how the project progresses. She'll start
by assembling a list of all the materials that will be used on the
D-I-Y portions of the project. A visit to her local home center will
price those items. Next, she'll talk with the contractors to get an
estimate of any work that they'll do. Added together she will have a
good idea of how realistic her budget is.

She might find that the budget estimate is more than she can afford.
That's time to scale down the project. Remember, remodeling is not an
all or nothing proposition. She may be able to occupy the room and
gradually do improvements over a number of years.

Tanya will need to consider how she'll pay for the remodeling. If she
doesn't have the money saved she'll need to borrow. Often a home
equity loan is the best choice. Make sure that there is enough money
available to complete the project before beginning. In Tanya's D-I-Y
project she'll be the general contractor. That means she's responsible
for the whole job.

Think of the remodeling as a series of smaller tasks. On her attic
conversion, Tanya will need to build interior walls; add any required
electrical, insulation plumbing and drywall. Heating and air
conditioning may be needed. She'll also deal with finish carpentry,
electric and plumbing. And finally flooring and painting.

The order of inspections will help Tanya determine the sequence of
jobs. Don't hesitate to ask the building department for advice. My
experience is that they're glad to help you do the job correctly.

It's easy to get overwhelmed if you consider the whole project at
once. The smaller individual tasks aren't that difficult. For
instance, a major part of Tanya's project will be building walls. With
a little study most do-it-yourselfers can learn to do an acceptable
job of framing a stud wall and then hanging drywall. And, once that's
completed, they can learn how to finish the joints to prepare the
walls for painting.

There are some jobs that Tanya will want to have a professional do.
She mentioned electricity. That will require getting the appropriate
bids and recommendations.

Some subcontractors, especially smaller ones, will let you help them
do the work. You won't save a lot of money by helping. In fact,
sometimes you might actually have to pay more! But you will learn
something and have your finger prints on the project.

Don't kid yourself. Most qualified professionals will do a slightly
better job than you would. And, they'll do it faster. But, if Tanya is
willing to tolerate minor imperfections or take the time to seek
perfection, she can do an acceptable job of many parts of the project.

After each step is completed she'll arrange for any necessary
inspections. Then on to the next step. Gradually the new room will
begin to take shape. And that's a great feeling! We hope that Tanya
enjoys the doing the work and also that new room when it's completed

Gary Foreman is a former purchasing manager who currently edits The
Dollar Stretcher Web site -http://www.stretcher.com.

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question use ceiling fans

2004-07-28T17:27:00.000-07:00

Yes indeed energy experts say that ceiling fans consume as little energy as a 60-watt bulb, which is about 98 percent less energy than most central air conditioners use.

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Italian Blinds

2004-07-28T17:14:00.000-07:00

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A friend emailed this trivia:

Italian Blinds

In 1769 the British designer Edward Beran enclosed wooden slats in a frame to adjust the amount of light let into a room. These became known as venetian blinds from their early use over Italianate windows.

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Decorating with Wallpaper

2004-07-16T22:26:00.000-07:00

Decorating with Wallpaper

- First impressions are lasting impressions and they also set the tone for many experiences that follow. This is as true of a home as it is of a personal encounter. Yet very few decorating books address the design of foyers and entryways at all, or they treat this entrance area of a home as an afterthought.

When decoration of an entryway is given short shrift, the whole home is cast in an unattractive light. Furthermore, those who live in the house fail to give this important, frequently traveled area the respect it deserves. The esthetic of any neglected space deteriorates when its lackluster environment fails to inspire people to maintain order.

So, let's put first things first. Free from a need to meet the rigors of function that have to be accommodated in kitchens, baths and most rooms of a home, the entryway offers an opportunity to create a stage set without the intrusion of practical considerations or must-have furnishings. Imagination rules.

Because entryways do not require much furniture, the walls and ceilings dominate, and wallpaper can totally transform an entryway's expansive vertical surface. Foyers and entryways present the perfect opportunity to use multiple wallpaper patterns with abandon and without fear of pattern-clash.

Choosing two, three or more patterns that go well together is easy in collections from S.A. Maxwell Co., because all of the design themes are arranged into coordinated groups of compatible colors and patterns. Three designs from Maxwell's Vintage Colonial collection give stature to an entryway with classic wood molding and door trim, while also infusing the space with warmth and an ambiance of quiet comfort.

The busiest of patterns contains a dense accumulation of Italianate ornamental designs that have the lustrous look of burnished bronze against a deep navy background. This pattern occupies the lower section of the wall, between ivory-colored molding at the baseboard and chair rail.

Above it is an overall mini-leopard-print pattern that appears as an almost patternless bronze and brown duotone from a distance, but takes on added interest on a closer look. At the top of the wall, beneath ivory-color crown molding, the navy and bronze of the lower wall is revived in a border of elegant and ornate scrolls.

Navy shades on a bronze chandelier, a delicately scaled settee with a carved frame and cane back and seat pick up the color of the leopard print and echo the design in the wallpaper patterns. A stately topiary in an antique Italian urn completes the scene.

For a less formal, more contemporary home, a single wallpaper pattern gives the foyer texture and depth. An enlarged, lattice-inspired pattern in the Arrangements collection from the Piper Designs studio of S.A. Maxwell adds a simple, yet sophisticated, soft-edged diamond/harlequin pattern to the walls. The color is reminiscent of stucco.

Add to this a simple two-seat metal bench with an over-stuffed textured cushion. Two loose pillows in printed Japanese silk and a pair of bamboo-framed Oriental prints not only accent this serene setting, but also appropriately connect the line that binds contemporary design with its Oriental origins.

These two very different entryways have one thing in common. They give residents and visitors alike a warm welcome and the implicit message that this home and its occupants honor beauty.

To find the nearest retailer carrying Vintage Colonial, Arrangements and other wallpaper collections by S.A. Maxwell Co., call (847)- -932-3700 or visit www.samaxwell.com. Holiday Home Entertaining: Hip and Hassle-Free

- The holiday season may be one of the busiest, we're dreaming of a gentler holiday season this year -- less hustle and more hearth. Entertaining at home is taking precedence over grand events, and families are rediscovering the pleasures of making their own decorations and gifts.

Given a few easy-to-assemble materials and a little time, this homeward focus can prove to become one of the most memorable and enjoyable holiday seasons ever. Is less more? Yes indeed and here are six perfectly plaid ideas for proving that point.

They are set forth in a dining room dressed for success at Christmas and throughout the new year with complementary red plaid and rose patterns from the new Kenilworth collection by the Patricia Kent Studios division of S.A. Maxwell Co. Red is not only the color of Christmas, but also the warmest color in the palette and the leading home fashion hue right now. All the decorations and gifts are made from wallpaper leftovers -- as thrifty as they are satisfying to make.

Run with Roses

Cut two strips of the die-cut red rose border exactly the length of a plain white or cream-colored tablecloth and place them, back-to-back, with the sculptured edge on the outside, right down the center of the table. For a centerpiece, line a square or rectangular box that is about four inches deep with plastic. Wrap the outside of the box with red plaid wallpaper from Kenilworth that is perfectly color-coordinated with the rose table runner. Stuff the box with an abundance of roses, all clipped to a uniform height that allows their blossoms to stand just above the rim of the box. This American beauty centerpiece captures the eye without blocking guests' eye contact. Silk or paper roses will do, but only real ones blanket the table in a glorious rosy fragrance.

Be Seated

Place cards help put guests at ease the moment they come to the table. Cut a 6 1/2 by 3-inch rectangle of plaid wallpaper and fold it in half, plaid side out. Then trim about a half inch from one end with pinking shears, and write a guest's name -- in red, green or gold ink -- on the white area. You can punch a hole in each nametag and tie it with ribbon or raffia around a napkin on each plate or around a wine glass at each place setting.

Add Light

Votive candles, like the low centerpiece, warm and decorate the table without interfering with conversation. Measure a length of plaid wallpaper, long enough and high enough to encircle a round or square glass for each guest. Punch the paper with a few holes for a twinkle-effect and wrap the glasses. Insert a tea light in each one and light up.

Rosy Reflection

Christmas is all about gilding the lily, so why not add to the decor by outlining the inside edge of a gold-frame mirror with Kenilworth's die-cut border? Place the straight edge against the frame's inside edge, and cut a 90-degree angle at each corner for a mitered look. Finish it off with a bow of beautiful gold ribbon at the top.

Hang with Care

Make a template of a Christmas stocking and trace the outline on some pieces of plaid, and some pieces of the rose-pattern wallpaper. Glue pairs of the wallpaper cutouts together along the edge, or stitch them together with thin gold thread. Fill each one with a rose or a dried hydrangea blossom, or even a candy cane, and hang them along the mantel or simply pile them into a beautiful basket and hand one to every visitor who knocks on your door.

Scatter with Stars

To create a star, make accordion folds in a rectangle of wallpaper, then fold the paper in half and tie it tight at the center with a piece of red, green or gold ribbon. Fan out the "accordion" on either side of the ribbon until the two ends meet to form a circle. Tape the edges together, and then cut between each pleat. These can be made in sizes ranging from tiny ornaments to a wreath and hung at random throughout the house.

A Christmas Bonus

Leftover wallpaper makes the best possible wrapping paper -- sturdy, yet beautiful and not limited to the standard wrapping-paper sizes. For a truly personal present, you might create a CD of your favorite holiday music. Insert a square of wallpaper inside the CD box as your personal "signature" and reminder of this happy holiday season.

Wrapped in plaid, it's a perfect way to say: Welcome to our home for the holidays!

To find the nearest retailer carrying Kenilworth, by the Patricia Kent Studios division of S.A. Maxwell Co., call (847) 932-3700 or visit www.samaxwell.com.

Security Bars Home Fire Safety

2004-07-16T22:18:00.000-07:00

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Security Bars and Home Fire Safety

- Sometimes a device that prevents one hazard creates another. That can be the case with security bars, the metal bars that people put on their windows and doors for security. They do keep intruders out -- but they also can trap residents inside in an emergency.

In October 1995, five children died in Oakland, Calif., when a fire broke out in their home, but they couldn't get out because the door was locked and steel bars were on the windows. The same fate befell four children in Ybor City, Fla., in 1997; unable to escape, they perished in an early-morning fire.

Many other incidents like these, often involving children and multiple deaths, have raised concerns about this issue. About 15 people die each year because security bars trap them inside during a fire.

What's the solution? Quick-release devices for security bars enable you to push the bars open from the inside. These can involve pulling a lever, pushing a button, stepping on a pedal or kicking in a lever on the floor.

Most fires involving security bars occur in low-income neighborhoods where people are already at higher risk for both crime and fires. To deal with the problem, the Center for High-Risk Outreach at the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), based in Quincy, Mass., has organized a Home Security Fire Safety Task Force to help communities reduce deaths and injuries from these fires through engineering, legislation and public education.

In Fort Lauderdale, Fla., for example, the members of the Task Force and the Fire and Rescue Department did a sidewalk survey to identify homes with security bars. Each received a notice informing residents of the danger, and listing installers who could retrofit the existing bars or put in newer, safer ones. Low-income residents were offered community block grant money to help with the cost. In Oakland, the fire department, State Farm Insurance and a local housing group teamed up to conduct a public education campaign and to offer a pool of funds to help residents retrofit or replace security bars.

In addition, California has passed laws requiring that security bars used on escape windows be releasable and that all new security bars be labeled with safety information.

Public programs and laws can have a huge effect, but when a fire breaks out, individuals' actions make the biggest difference. Here are some tips from NFPA's Center for High-Risk Outreach:

* Install working smoke alarms on every level.

* Know two ways out of every room.

* Use quick release devices on barred windows and doors.

* Make sure everyone in the household knows how to operate the release devices.

* Make an escape plan and practice fire drills in the home.

Free educational materials, "Safe and Secure," can be downloaded from NFPA's Web site, www.nfpa.org, from the public education section.

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Professional Lighting Services

2004-07-16T22:14:00.000-07:00

Light Up Your Holidays the Easy Way

More People Turning to Professional Lighting Services

- Even Scrooge wouldn't dare say "bah humbug" to a dazzling display of holiday lights. He'd be even happier if he didn't have to string the lights himself, and there are a growing number of companies that specialize in doing just that.

The past few years have seen a trend of people turning to professional installers to deck their halls with eye-popping home light displays. While for some individuals and families, putting up the outdoor holiday decorations is a cherished tradition, for many others it is a dreaded winter chore. These folks would rather avoid the frustrations of burned out strings of lights, working in freezing temperatures and climbing tall ladders perched on icy sidewalks.

"People who use our service choose it for a variety of reasons," says Kevin York, vice president of Christmas Decor, a Texas-based company that specializes in holiday lighting displays for homes and businesses nationwide in 47 states and Canada. "Bad weather, hard-to-reach spots, safety factors and limited time are all reasons we hear from our customers."

Hiring a professional lighting installer not only saves headaches, it also makes for a more polished look. "Our dealers go through an intensive training process that teaches them design principles as well as technical requirements," says York. "Untrained individuals can't compete with the crisp and clean look of professional installation."

Working with a professional lighting installer gives homeowners a variety of options, from simple to spectacular. For example, Christmas Decor dealers will provide customers with plans, similar to blueprints, with different design ideas. "We usually start with lights on the house and then add on from there," says York.

Other options include decorating windows, and adding landscape lighting such as staked lighting or luminaries along walks, flowerbeds and driveways. Garlands, wreaths and bows are available for ornamentation that stands out during daylight hours. Often, customers will start out simple the first year and then add on to their design in following years. "We work with the homeowner to decide what they really like and what fits their budget," says York.

Christmas Decor will install lights their customers already own, or customers can buy professional-grade lights from the company. "We have heavy duty commercial type bulbs that last 3,000 hours; most bulbs purchased in the store last only about 600 hours," says York. His company will maintain the lights the first year for customers who purchase lights through their dealer, even replacing burned out bulbs. Professional installers also take down the decorations after the holidays and will store them if the customer prefers.

Clear lights are the overwhelming top choice among customers, but colored lights are especially popular among families with kids. Adding color to the design also helps differentiate one house from another if a number of homes in a given neighborhood are professionally decorated.

Sounds good, but what would Scrooge say about the cost of hiring a professional lighting installer? The cost depends on the size of the home and how elaborately it is decorated. The average decorating job runs between $900 and $1,300. But the cost can start as low as $300 to $400. The first year tends to require the biggest investment, as customers usually opt to purchase the lights. Then the cost for the second year is about half of the first year's price.

"Whatever amount a customer feels comfortable spending, we will make sure their house looks great," York promises. Christmas Decor has 350 dealers in the US and Canada. To find a dealer near you, visit the company's Web site at www.christmasdecor.net.

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Cascading Evolution Shower

2004-07-16T22:10:00.000-07:00

An Ancient Luxury Becomes a Modern Morning Necessity

A Look at the Cascading Evolution of the Shower

- Count yourself lucky for living in the modern world. If you're like most people, you begin every day by taking for granted something that was not even available to some of the most wealthy and powerful people throughout history -- a shower.

Today, going without a shower for even a day is out of the question for most people, and to not shower for a week or more would be unthinkable. But most of us have ancestors who probably shunned bathing to the greatest extent possible. Even the Romans, who loved to bathe, took their baths in stagnant pools of dirty water that they shared with hundreds of their fellow citizens. They had no concept of bacteria of course.

In ancient times, the best a rich or royal person could do was to have a servant dump cold water over them as they stood in a basin -- hardly a relaxing experience by modern standards.

Today, manufacturers spend millions finding ways to make water do magical things in order to make showering a luxurious, invigorating and revitalizing experience.

"The soothing massage of a specially engineered stream of hot water is what people seek in their showers today," says David Lingafelter, Moen Incorporated's vice president of product marketing. "We spend a lot of time figuring out how to make water create the sensation of a massage when designing shower fixtures," he adds. "Our Revolution showerhead actually spins each drop of water that it puts out and then twirls the whole shower stream so that users feel enveloped in water. Making the water droplets larger makes them feel warmer and the increased speed and movement of each drop gives the sensation of higher flow and higher pressure."

You don't get that sort of feeling from your average ancient servant with a bucket.

But, at various times throughout history, ancient cultures have embraced the notion of showering for cleansing. During excavation of the Egyptian city of Akhenaten at Tel-el-Amarna, which dates back to 1350 B.C., a small bathroom was found. Lawrence Wright's "Clean & Decent: The Fascinating History of the Bathroom and the Water-Closet" reports that it was determined from the design of the basin, complete with splashbacks, that it was a simple form of a shower. It is believed that the water was most likely poured on the bather from servants holding vases.

Babylon had a series of aqueducts (the earliest ones on record) laboriously maintained to provide the well-to-do with water for their bathrooms, according to "The History of Plumbing - Babylon" on PlumbingSupply.com. While the common people were bathing and washing clothes on the banks of canals or in cisterns, King Nebuchandnezzar (605 to 562 B.C.) bathed in a shower room where, you guessed it, slaves poured water over him as he washed with soap made of ashes and animal fat. The plumbing was advanced enough that a drainpipe took away the wastewater, something modern plumbers wouldn't accomplish until the 19th century.

In ancient Greece, citizens took outdoor showers by standing under a stream of water coming from spouts found on the sides of large fountains built in the cities, according to Penny Colman's, "Toilets, Bathtubs, Sinks, and Sewers." Grecian vases with paintings of people showering in this manner were found by archaeologists.

Unfortunately, the Western world's showering advancements stopped when people began to think that bathing itself was not altogether necessary. Queen Isabella of Spain, who funded the voyage of Christopher Columbus, was proud of the fact she had taken only two showers in her lifetime, reported Colman. In fact, early Christians equated bathing with vanity and avoided it in order to be more holy. Colman wrote that St. Francis of Assisi listed dirtiness as one of the signs of a holy person, St. Catherine of Siena avoided washing, and St. Agnes, who died at the age of 13, had never taken a bath.

Eventually, cleanliness began to come into vogue again, but only long after a third of Europe had succumbed to the Plague. In 1598, Wright reports, bathing rooms were added to Windsor Castle in London. It was here that Queen Elizabeth took a bath once a month whether she needed to or not.

As recently as 1812, bathing was looked upon as frivolous. When the Lord Mayor of London requested a simple shower bath in the mansion house, he was turned down by the Common Council on the grounds that no one had ever wanted one before. It would take 20 more years before one would be installed.

Showers, as we know them today without the pouring servants, came into use in the late 18th century, according to Rebecca Weaver and Rodney Dale's, "Machines in the Home." The first patent for a shower was granted in 1767 and owned by William Feetham. The earliest showers usually had a hand pump and became popular because they required a smaller water supply.

Frank Muir's "An Irreverent and Almost Complete Social History of the Bathroom," reports that showers had other advantages over the commonplace bathtubs. They were smaller, taking up less room in already tight areas, and they were cheaper to install. With showers, servants had a wider area to clean, but they also had less wastewater to carry away.

But by far the biggest drawback of the shower was the cold water shock that accompanied pulling the cord on the overhead tank. That reason alone kept many people in baths until the advent of piped hot water. They reasoned it was easier to slowly drop into a tub of cold water than to pull the cord and let it rain down upon them.

This shower Renaissance was brought on, in great part, by doctors prescribing water cures to their patients. The water was applied in a number of ways, including the Rain Bath -- simply a shower where the patient would walk in and the doctor would pull the cord on the nozzle to shower the patient.

Lawrence Wright includes this quote: "It is no rare thing to see a subject who at this first shower betrays actual terror, shouts, struggles, runs away, experiences frightening suffocation and palpitation; and it is not rare to hear him say, after a moment, 'so that's all it is.'

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Kitchen Remodeling Projects

2004-07-16T22:08:00.000-07:00

Top Kitchen Remodeling Projects For 2002

Hot Trends Mean Cool Products for Your Kitchen

-- Now that you've cleared your schedule for the weekend -- you're ready to clean out the garage, scrub the tub and tile, and seal the deck. But as hard as you try to give your home a fresh, new look for the warmer months, there is still one room that is painfully behind the times: your kitchen. As the main gathering place in the household, the kitchen is where you entertain guests, cook the family meals and help the kids do homework. It is truly the hearth of the home and the area that everyone visiting your house sees.

Contemplating a kitchen update? You're not alone. According to "Kitchen & Bath Business" magazine, more than 4 million homeowners plan to remodel their kitchens this year-- a 7.1 percent increase over last year.

So what is on every consumer's wish list to make their dream kitchen a reality? "Kitchen & Bath Design News" magazine asked this question of 300 kitchen dealers, designers and remodelers. Of those surveyed, 78.2 percent said their clients want an updated appearance and new features, and 64.7 percent wanted a more efficient layout. Other top responses included increased storage space, new cabinets, unique designs and new appliances.

With consumers expected to spend a record $42.7 billion in 2002 for kitchen remodeling, what are the "hottest" trends and the "coolest" products this spring? Wendy Silverstein, former editor of "HomeStyle Kitchen & Bath" magazine, says that while most Americans still feel comfortable with pale woods, granite tops and stainless steel, European decor trends are infusing new materials and colors into kitchen design.

"Europeans are moving to full walls of kitchen cabinetry that mix and match walnut wood with bright lacquers. These cabinets offer plenty of display areas and sliding doors, all influenced by the look of furniture," says Silverstein. "Here in the United States., manufacturers are putting a lot of thought into how people use their kitchens with innovative new products such as ovens that can cool and sinks that double as dishwashers. Customization is also big for Americans, from dishwashers that offer movable racks to sinks that have plenty of add-on gadget choices. Overall, people are investing in their kitchens no matter what the size."

New Countertops

The Kitchen & Bath Design News survey revealed that the top priority on consumers' kitchen upgrade wish lists was a more expensive countertop material such as granite. Granite offers the benefit of minimal maintenance and will retain its good looks for years to come. It is the most durable and least porous of all stones and offers a rich look in the kitchen. Plus, each piece of cut granite is unique. Because remodeling with granite for all countertop surfaces can get costly, experts advise that mixing and matching materials is becoming popular. A homeowner might use granite solely on an island countertop to serve as a focal point.

A new countertop material coming onto the scene in 2002 is concrete. Comparable in price to granite, concrete opens up the possibility of having customized colors mixed into the countertop. Tiles can be added to the concrete to create a one-of-a-kind look.

Solid surface countertops are also at the top of consumers' most-requested list. Because of their smooth and non-porous texture, solid surfaces will not promote the growth of bacteria or mold -- an important feature when working with raw meats, vegetables and other food products. Available in a wide array of colors, solid surfaces offer seamless construction and the option of an integral sink. Nicks, scratches and burns can be buffed out if necessary. Corian, Surrell and Avonite are common trade names of solid surface countertops.

Last, but certainly not least, is tile. Decorative, hand-painted tiles can be used for trim and backsplash areas; and ceramic, porcelain or quarry tile for main countertop areas can be added to create a distinctive or highly personalized look.

Faucets

Another "must-have" kitchen upgrade is a new faucet. "One of the easiest and most inexpensive changes a homeowner can make to a kitchen is installing a new faucet," said Kathleen Yates, Moen Group product manager, kitchen. "Today's faucets have so much functionality that they make quick work out of kitchen tasks. In addition, these faucets add a sense of style to the kitchen."

For example, Yates notes that Moen offers pullout faucets that can do everything from fill large pots to clean the remote corners of the kitchen sink. And, with so many finish options, these faucets can be the centerpiece of the kitchen. Take for instance the Colonnade faucet from Moen, which offers a classic, traditional look and is available in one of the hottest finishes for 2002 -- copper -- to complement the trend in cookware and other kitchen accents. Or, for those envisioning a more modern look in the kitchen, Moen's Salora pullout has a sleek and contemporary look accentuated by a brushed stainless steel finish to match the latest looks in kitchen appliances.

For those concerned about the quality of their water for drinking or cooking, there are now many options that provide bottle-quality water right from the kitchen tap. The PureTouch filtering faucet or the AquaSuite filtered water dispenser offer easy ways to get filtered water at the touch of a button. Their stylish looks are much more attractive than clunky faucet attachments, and are far more convenient than pitchers in constant need of refilling.

Cabinets

Not long ago, homeowners thought their kitchens were well equipped if they had built-in spice racks. Today's consumers can take storage options to a new level. Manufacturers such as Schrock Cabinetry offer all sorts of tailor-made storage solutions like wine racks, roll-out shelves, pullout doors with special shelves for pots and pans, and holders for things like recyclables, garbage bins and canned goods. Yet, not everything is hidden behind the cabinet door. Modern kitchen designs offer plenty of display space with plate racks, open shelves for books and collectibles, and glass-front cabinets for displaying china and crystal.

Cabinet manufacturers now make it easy to hide trash compactors, dishwashers and icemakers behind paneled doors that match cabinetry. 'Drip'aphobia: Overcoming Your Fear of Faucets

Simple Plumbing Repairs You Can Do To Improve and Maintain Your Home

- So you fancy yourself a "D-I-Yer" -- you can paint, plant shrubs, change the filter screen in your furnace, and even put up a shelf. But when it comes to plumbing, you are terrified. You have visions of water spewing forth from your pipes suddenly causing the whole house to be flooded, while the kids gleefully hold boat races in the basement.

Many homeowners are concerned about tackling plumbing jobs because, unlike most other home projects, if something goes wrong the result can be major damage. But never fear, many plumbing projects are easy to do -- such as installing a new faucet or changing out a showerhead.

And, if you are in the midst of a project and have a question or run into a problem, there are many places to turn for help such as manufacturer call centers, Internet sites, plumbing supply showrooms, and retailers.

For example, the experts at Moen Incorporated have helped many homeowners see a project through to completion. With a consumer service center that takes more than 4,000 calls per day (800,000 calls per year), representatives have spoken with callers during some tense times.

"We have received calls ranging from an elderly woman in tears since she was having a hard time replacing a faucet cartridge, to the journeyman plumber calling us in the middle of a class he was conducting with apprentices to verify an answer," said Mark Fales, lead correspondence specialist with Moen's consumer service center.

Aside from many different types of calls, the center recognizes special calls need special attention. According to Fales, the center goes into a heightened sense of alert during the holidays for plumbing emergencies. "If we get a call from someone having a plumbing problem right before a house party, holiday gathering or special event we do whatever it takes to make sure the customer's entertaining can go on without any issues regarding the Moen products within their home," explained Fales.

Frequently Asked Questions

Handling calls regarding plumbing emergencies, general repairs and installs, the 78 employees of the Moen consumer service center have heard it all. So, what are the questions they get asked time and time again ... and what is their advice for handling the situations? Here is some insight into frequently asked questions.

* What should I look for in a faucet?

With so many faucets on the market today, many consumers wonder why two different models that appear to look alike have different price tags. Moen's experts advise homeowners to look for faucets with valve bodies made of brass rather than plastic, which will increase the overall durability. They also suggest buying well-recognized brand names that come with extensive warranties. Also, purchasing washerless faucets, which only have one piece cartridges and don't use washers, seats or springs, will eliminate the most likely cause of leaks.

* What tools should I have on hand for plumbing jobs?

Every homeowner's toolbox should have the following tools to handle plumbing jobs: pliers, Phillips head and regular screwdrivers, an adjustable wrench, a basin wrench (a specially designed plumbing tool widely available at home centers or plumbing stores), and Teflon or plumber's tape.

* How do I install a new faucet?

It's really not that difficult to install a new faucet. One of the most important steps is to have all the supplies needed to begin the job. Before leaving the retail outlet or plumbing showroom where you purchase your faucet, check the instructions on the outside of the box to ensure you have all necessary items.

Most new faucets give step-by-step instructions with visuals; use this as a reference. Usually, the most difficult part of the job is removing your old faucet. To do this you may have to use some WD-40 to loosen any corroded mounting nuts underneath the sink. Make sure you have turned off the water to the faucet before removing the supply lines or you will end up with a wet cabinet and floor.

Once you have removed your old faucet, be sure to clean the deck surface area before inserting the valve body of the new faucet through the holes on the top of your sink deck. Move under the sink deck to tighten the mounting hardware that holds the faucet in place and complete the job by reconnecting the water supply lines.

* How can I increase the flow rate of my faucet?

As a faucet ages, many homeowners notice its flow isn't what it used to be. To correct this problem, create a mixture of half water and half white vinegar and let your faucet aerator sit in it overnight. To do this, you can unscrew the aerator counter clockwise or, put the mixture in a plastic bag and rubber band the bag around the aerator. You can also use this technique to improve the flow of a showerhead.

* What can I do if my faucet handle is hard to operate or if I have a leak from the spout?

If you have a washerless faucet, a handle that is hard to move, or a leak coming from the spout, these are telltale signs that the faucet's cartridge needs to be replaced. This is a relatively easy project that most homeowners can accomplish.

For a single-handle faucet, start this project by removing the cap in the center of the knob and the screw underneath it, which secures the handle. Once the handle is removed, you can easily slide out the stop sleeve (a cylindrical tube). Next, use pliers to grab hold of the copper-colored U-shaped retainer clip to pull it out.

Use the twisting tool (a white plastic piece) that comes with your new Moen faucet to loosen the old cartridge. Then, insert the new cartridge into the faucet's valve body -- it is important that the cartridge's two plastic ears are aligned precisely at 12 o'clock and 6 o'clock. Now reinstall the retainer clip, stop sleeve and handle.

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windows and doors

2004-07-16T22:05:00.000-07:00

Corporation know homeowners often overlook a very important area -- their windows and doors.

High-performing windows and doors can greatly impact energy efficiency and comfort levels within a home, according to Pat Meyer, Pella director of product marketing. "Energy efficiency is fast becoming top-of-mind for an increasing number of homeowners, and rightly so," says Meyer. "Poor performing windows and doors can account for up to 30 to 40 percent of heat loss or gain in a home. Quality windows and doors should be able to provide superior thermal performance, eliminate drafts and resist the elements. All of these factors together can help keep a home comfortable and reduce energy costs."

The Department of Energy (DOE) reports that more than 40 percent of the annual energy budget for a typical house is consumed by heating and cooling costs. New windows that meet DOE Energy Star rating standards are twice as energy-efficient as the average windows produced just 10 years ago. In fact, according to Pella, high-performance energy-efficient windows can save a homeowner up to three months' worth of energy bills a year.* And fall can be the perfect time to take a look at potential replacement needs.

Despite popular belief, replacing windows and doors doesn't have to be a sophisticated, expensive process. Depending on the scope of the project, there are relatively easy, economical options -- such as installing a new replacement window, prehung entry door or storm door -- that the intermediate to expert do-it-yourselfer can tackle in roughly a day or two.

In today's market, there are replacement windows that come as fully assembled units -- sliding easily and quickly into an existing window pocket -- fitting window openings in a majority of households. These windows are available with several features to match existing colors and designs -- such as aluminum cladding, a wood interior that can be painted or stained, muntins and multicolor jamb liners.

A lesser-know fact is that storm doors can help minimize airflow through a drafty entry door system, improving energy efficiency. Recent enhancements in storm door design -- coupled with better weather-stripping -- have helped create a "tighter" storm door able to reduce air infiltration, especially where an entry door has been a source of energy loss. Just like replacement windows, storm doors offer numerous decorative details, including beveled and brass-camed glass designs, pewter handles and bottom expanders.

To determine if existing windows or doors are energy-wasters, homeowners should look for broken or cracked pieces of glass in the window frame and sill, which can lead to drafts or condensation. For entry doors with glass, homeowners should look for the same signs mentioned above, as well as check for bowed, warped or split panels, as well as gaps between the door and its threshold and weather-stripping. They should also determine whether the door fits snugly into the jamb.

If you're still not sure if your windows and doors are winter-ready, contact a local window and door expert or visit a local home improvement center to help determine if your windows and doors are providing the best performance. You can consult the Yellow Pages or go online to locate local window and door providers.

If your windows and doors don't seem to be hitting the mark for energy efficiency, don't worry. There are basic tips that can make the replacement process easy and cost-efficient.

* Check with your local utility company. Many utilities offer incentives to homeowners who make improvements that save energy. Contact your utility company to determine if you're eligible for a low-interest loan or discount for replacing your windows and doors. Ask about energy-efficient insulating features such as argon gas between the panes of glass and a Low-E coating.

* Look for the Energy Star. The Energy Star program was created by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the DOE to help individuals identify windows and other products that save energy.

* Read labels. The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label contains the window's U-value and other ratings. The lower the U-value, the better the window resists heat transfer.

* Do your homework. Some informative sites regarding windows include the Efficient Windows Collaborative, www.efficientwindows.org; Energy Star, www.energystar.gov; National Fenestration Rating Council, www.nfrc.org.

As a volunteer partner in the DOE's Energy Star program, Pella promotes the use of high-efficiency windows and doors by developing Energy Star-approved products. To learn more, call (888) 84-PELLA or visit www.pella.com.

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Furnish Your First Home

2004-07-16T20:41:00.000-07:00

Furnish Your First Home in Style, Even on a Budget

- Chances are, after saving every penny for a down payment (not to mention paying off all the wedding expenses), you don't have much money left to spend on decorating your first house. But don't worry; with a little planning and creativity, you can turn your house into home sweet home without breaking the bank. And you won't have to give up comfort, individual expression or warmth.

Furnishing a home on a budget is simple if you pay attention to some basic money-saving tips. First, figure out what your needs are by asking yourself the following questions:

* How long do you plan to be in the house? Is it a starter home, or will you live there for a long time?

* What furniture do you need for your lifestyle? For example, do you entertain frequently? Do you expect many overnight guests?

* What do you use each room of the house for?

* Do you have enough storage?

Second, dream big. Read through decorating and lifestyle magazines to find your "dream" rooms. What would your house look like if money were no object? Start a file with pictures and ideas that you'd like to copy. Draw up a floor plan of the room or rooms you will be decorating. Make a list of the furniture you currently own, noting what you want to keep and what you'd like to replace.

Finally, draw up a budget. How much can you realistically afford to spend? Now it's time to go shopping.

One way to save money is to buy "flat-pack," or ready-to-assemble furniture. Ready-to-assemble furniture offers several advantages. First, you don't have to wait for delivery. Because the furniture is in boxes, you can load it in your car and have it in your house the very same day. Another advantage is price. When you invest a little of your own time and labor putting the furniture together, you save money.

Don't let the thought of assembling a large piece of furniture intimidate you. "Today's ready-to-assemble furniture features streamlined designs and fewer parts to assemble," says John Ledek, vice president of marketing and merchandising for Bush Furniture. To help make assembly hassle-free, the company's Web site provides online assembly tutorials, as well as answers to frequently asked questions.

Bush offers a wide selection of ready-to-assemble furniture. The company's Birmingham line is ideal for furnishing a first home. The pieces feature a timeless, classic design with a warm plank cherry finish that will complement any room.

The Birmingham Collection includes bookcases, entertainment centers and desks that can be used in more than one room, providing a coordinated look throughout your home. In addition, the classic design group includes other diverse pieces such as occasional tables for the family room and dresser, chest and headboards for the master or guest bedroom, which allows you to easily mix the pieces with other furniture you already own, whether it is traditional or more modern. "You can have a classic family look at a starter price," said Ledek.

Birmingham and other Bush Furniture lines can be found at local furniture retailers and national retailers such as Sears, or at www.bushindustries.com. To locate a dealer, call (800)950-4782.

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room accent color neutral rule

2004-07-08T22:17:00.000-07:00

How often have you looked at a color that you would love to
use in a room and wonder if it may be "too much?" You can
use any accent color to brighten up a room if you follow
"the neutral rule." The neutral rule is choosing a neutral
shade you can pull the room together in a polished look that
gets attention in a subtle and classy way. Here are some
colors and the best neutral tones to use with them....

Red...Shades of toasted almond, oatmeal or wheat...

Yellow...Whites that are bluish in tones, such as linen
or a frosty white...

Orange...Colors in clay, beige or coffee...

Pinks or purple...light gray or a shimmery stone color...

Blues...Best with pure white

Green...Caramel or a cream color...

If you keep neutral with plain walls you can spice up
the room with prints.

removing wallpaper

2004-07-08T22:14:00.000-07:00

Try removing wallpaper with cheap fabric softener.
Fill a spray bottle with fabric softener. Saturate
the wall, leave for a few minutes and it will peel
right off.

remove super glue

2004-07-08T21:55:00.000-07:00

To remove super glue from your hands, hold a remover-
soaked cotton ball or cloth on the area until the glue
disappears. Don't try to peel off the glue.

wash highly waxed floor

2004-07-08T21:54:00.000-07:00

To wash a highly waxed floor and retain its shine, use
a solution of one cup fabric softener in a half-pail of
water.

cooling it Sonoran Desert summer

2004-07-08T13:41:00.000-07:00

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First electric bill of the summer got you down?
Cooling costs make up the largest portion of electricity bills in the summer when the average residential bill more than doubles as people crank up the AC to stay comfortable.

Last year the average electric bill in February was $49.96 and jumped to $123.32 in July, according to Tucson Electric Power Co.

More money-saving tips

Want to lower bills for the rest of the long, hot Sonoran Desert summer?

TEP suggests the following to help keep you cool and keep cash in your wallet:

Use ceiling fans to keep air circulating, making it feel cooler and lowering air conditioner use.

Dry laundry loads right after each other so the dryer doesn't have to reheat for each load. Clean the lint tray after each load.

Set the thermostat at 78 and leave it there. If you must change it, move it up or down only three degrees.

Caulk window and door frames and around plumbing openings to keep the cool air inside.

Shade west-facing windows and walls with awnings or shade trees to reduce afternoon temperatures in the house. Window curtains or blinds will keep heat and sunlight out.

Keep vents or ducts clear to let your cooling system work more efficiently.

Some cooling costs in the summer can't be avoided.
David Kettlekamp lives with his grandmother and takes care of her. Cooling costs in their house are going to rise dramatically this summer.

"I came home Sunday to a 90-degree house," he said. A couple of visits from the repairman confirmed the nearly 15-year-old air conditioning unit would have to be replaced, a job that could cost as much as $8,000.

Chuck Cozzens, an air conditioning service technician for American Home Maintenance Inc., walked Kettlekamp through the process and showed him his options.

Cozzens said homeowners can expect to see their cooling costs drop 20 percent to 40 percent if they replace their old units with new ones.

"New units are so much more efficient these days and so much more quiet," Cozzens said.

John Corrigan, an estimator with Rite Way Ventilating Co., said consumers should think of their new air conditioning units as investments that can pay for themselves over time.

"Even though it's a large investment upfront, look at the money you're not giving to TEP," he said.

He said new, high-efficiency units with variable air flow blowers can be as much as two to three times more efficient as older units, cutting electricity use by half or two thirds.

Cozzens stressed the need for annual maintenance on air conditioners and heaters to keep them healthy and efficient.
"What people don't understand about their air conditioners is that, much like cars, they need to be maintained. There can be little things that go wrong that, if you catch it, can make the difference between a $70 repair versus a $400 repair," he said.

Tiffany Orr, service coordinator at Perry Heating and Cooling, said homeowners frequently neglect to do the easiest thing to keep their AC unit cooling properly and their electric bills down.

"It's always good to keep your filters changed. They should change them at least once a month, and in some extreme cases more often than that. That's a big thing that makes your unit run efficiently," she said.

Erik Van Keuren said his electricity bill doubles every summer when he turns on his evaporative cooler, even though it's only a few years old. He expects his bills to go down when he applies new white roof coating this week.

"I know that's going to make a big difference even though it's nearly $300 for the materials alone," he said.

But even though he's put up weather stripping and does regular maintenance on the cooler, he knows the price of comfort in Tucson is high.

If you do need your air conditioner or evaporative cooler on nonstop, don't worry. TEP is prepared to handle the peak summer usage through its own power generation and long-term contracts with other electricity generators, spokesman Joe Salkowski said.

Salkowski said peak retail demand for electricity is estimated at 2,083 megawatts this summer, up from 2,060 last year and 1,899 in 2002.

"Tucson's growing, and as the community expands the need for electricity grows as well," he said. TEP estimates demand for electricity will grow 2 percent to 3 percent annually through at least 2007.

Although TEP has plenty of power to keep the lights on, problems are always possible.

Last week's outage that hit about 35,000 customers was not related to power supply, Salkowski said.

According to The Associated Press: An insulator on a transmission line failed near Phoenix. The failure should have tripped breakers designed to isolate the problem and protect the rest of the Western power grid. But the breakers also failed, causing Palo Verde and a nearby gas-fired plant to shut down. Then one of Palo Verde's backup diesel generators also failed to fire.

The Phoenix-area shutdowns triggered a service interruption to Tucson customers to balance the power system and prevent a collapse of the power supply here.

Tips Taming Chaotic Home

2004-06-28T14:37:00.000-07:00

Family Gets Some Help Taming Chaotic Home

By Theresa Walker The Orange County Register

Source: The Augusta Chronicle The first sign of trouble is the pile of five newspapers just inside the front gate, still in the plastic wrapping to protect them from the rain.

When she zooms home at 4:15 p.m. on a Thursday for her youngest daughter's piano lesson, Jeanine Hubbard picks that day's paper up from the top of the low wall surrounding the courtyard of her Huntington Beach, Calif., home and drops it onto the pile. Her husband, David, will go through them at some point.

"My job is to drop them there and wait for him to read them on the weekend," she explains on her way inside.

In the 15 minutes before the piano teacher comes to give Abby, 9, a half-hour lesson, Ms. Hubbard manages to check the homework that JoJo, 11, has finished. The living room is a serene oasis, where the polished piano sits with a pair of acoustic guitars beside it and not a hint of disorder.

But as Ms. Hubbard works her way through the dining room, kitchen, family room and up the staircase to the second and third floors, she points out why she has invited to her home a reporter, a photographer and organizer extraordinaire Kathy Peel, whose latest of 15 books is The Family Manager Takes Charge: Getting on the Fast Track to a Happy, Organized Home.

Actually, Ms. Hubbard doesn't have to do much pointing. The problem facing the Hubbards speaks loud and clear for itself: clutter. The Hubbards, both educators, moved here two years ago from a bigger house in Riverside, Calif., and have never been able to catch up on getting their house in order, what with their on-the-go, don't- throw-anything-away lifestyle.

Ms. Peel says they are like many families she encounters these days: "Everybody has these problems. You don't have the time to stop and figure it all out." Ms. Peel offered to help the Hubbards figure it out. They eagerly accepted.

Tips For Organizing Your Home

Ms. Peel blamed the Hubbard family's clutter dilemma on never having had time to completely unpack, organize and store their belongings after moving in. Here are strategies she recommended to the Hubbards and to anyone else dealing with similar issues:

- Take a storage survey. This can be a great exercise if you've recently moved, you're redecorating or rearranging furniture, or if you're undertaking a major decluttering campaign.

Pick a time when you have an uninterrupted half-hour. Walk slowly around your house and jot down all the storage spaces you see. Be sure to look for the unusual spots you may have overlooked - under beds, behind doors, etc. At the same time, make a note of things that aren't stored properly or aren't close to where they're used.

- After the survey is done, you can begin to match up items with places to put them. Store like items together. Think in categories. Gather all items used for the same kind of project and put them in one spot convenient to the user. Use inexpensive drawer organizers to keep small items from getting jumbled together. Clear, plastic boxes (they come in all sizes) are good for medium- size items. Use 55-gallon plastic trash cans for big things such as sports equipment or garden tools.

- Store items as close as possible to the place they are used most often. Don't simply store them in the first handy or seemingly logical space. It will defeat your purpose of getting organized. Think about how you're going to use the object. Allocate your most accessible space to the things you use most often. Kitchen shelves between eye and waist level are prime storage areas.

- Make finding as easy as storing. Use see-through containers whenever possible. When you can't, label containers. Give every possession a "home." Whenever you acquire a new possession, from a pasta maker to a pair of skates, decide where it's going to be stored as soon as you bring it into the house. For bigger items, it's probably a good idea to figure that out before bringing them home.

You Need To Clean Up If . . . Red flags that tell you your home is in need of better organization:

- You can't use your dining table for dining because it's covered with stuff.

- Your car keys are frequently missing in action.

- Countertops hold piles of mail and papers.

- You have laundry mysteries - unknown whereabouts of clothes, growing numbers of orphan socks.

- You have expired coupons stashed in drawers.

- Floors and stairways are danger zones; paths need to be cleared.

- You're embarrassed to have company drop by your house.

Many thanks to Theresa Walker, The Orange County Register, ProQuest Information and Learning

Tips for Keeping Your Home Cool

2004-06-28T13:59:00.000-07:00

Tips for Keeping Your Home Cool cellular shades

Springtime and the living already is sweaty. Longer days and clearskies are giving the sun extra time to raise the inside temperature ofyour house. By the time you get home from work, your castle is aranch-style oven.

It's enough to drive a person to buy central air conditioning.

Save your bucks and the salmon smolts who literally bust a gut goingthrough the hydroelectric turbines that produce the electricity tokeep those air conditioners running. There are plenty of lessexpensive ways to keep your cool. The best part: Some of the steps youtake to keep your home cooler in summer also will keep it warmer inwinter.

Circulate air

Get the air moving. Ventilation simply is the most efficient way tocool buildings, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

There are the no-brainers such as opening doors and windows in theevening to get the air moving. Remember, the longer the path the airis forced to take between openings, the more heat that is dissipated.Vary which windows you open and which you leave closed until you getmaximum ventilation through all of the house.

Portable fans can help push air in the right direction. Putting a bowlof ice cubes in front of the fan is a cheap, easy way to make that acooler move, according to Bruce Carter, energy adviser for ClarkPublic Utilities, who has some other tips of his own in hisaccompanying column.

Ceiling fans also help. If it's a reversible fan, make sure it'sturning clockwise.

Basements, for the fortunate owners of them, are usually a well ofcooler air. Either move your bed, big-screen TV and your body downthere. Or turn on the furnace fan and move some of that cooler airthroughout the rest of the house.

And don't forget what's happening in the attic. By the time daytimetemperatures hit a regular 95-degree stride, stagnant air in a poorlyventilated attic is hitting 140 degrees.

Soon, that heat starts migrating into the living space, Carter says.

It's ideal to have about one square foot of ventilation for every 100square feet of ceiling space, according to the DOE. Half the ventsshould be high on the roof; half should be at the eaves or soffits.

If your attic isn't that well ventilated, this is a good time toconsider a solar-powered attic fan, says Cindy Bluemel of NorthwestWind & Sun in Vancouver. The solar model eliminates the need to runelectricity to the fan.

Northwest Wind & Sun sells a unit made by Natural Light. It has adetachable solar panel, allowing the energy source to be put on thesouth-facing roof and the fan into the north-facing roof.

"When the sun is shining, the fan is working," Bluemel says.

Northwest Wind & Sun started seeing the fans about four years ago.The company sells a version of the fans for $400 but is contemplatingadding installation services.

Mr. Sun Solar of Portland sells a 12-volt solar-powered fan made byNatural Light for about $350. Mr. Sun offers installation for an extrafee that averages $225. That includes cutting the hole for the fan inthe roof, installing the fan, installing flashing and resealing thatportion of the roof.

The solar unit is rarely detached from the fan, but when it is, thepower cable can be run through the attic so it is not visible.

Meanwhile, "in our climate, it can make the difference between buyingan air conditioner and not buying an air conditioner," says JohnPatterson of Mr. Sun.

No doubt results vary from home to home. But the DOE says ample atticventilation can reduce attic temperature as much as 25 degrees. Thattranslates into a home that's 5 to 10 degrees cooler, Patterson says.

Blocking maneuvers

One of the least expensive ways to cool your home is to simply keepheat out. Light-colored roofs make a big difference because theyreflect some of the sun's heat instead of absorbing it, says DavidHales, a building specialist with the Washington State UniversityEnergy Program. (Reroofing solely on that account is a prettyexpensive measure, but roof color is something to keep in mind whenthe time comes to redo those shingles.)

Insulation is another key cooling maneuver. Energy experts recommendincreasing attic insulation to at least R-38, roughly a foot thick.This also pays off when the winter heating season arrives.

Insulated shades and curtains hung inside the house can stop some ofthe summer heat. However, outdoor awnings and shades are moreeffective, says Clark Public Utilities' Carter, because they stop someof the heat before it gets in the house.

Planting a tree, or building a plant trellis on the west side of thehouse, also is an effective cooling move.

If you are considering replacing your windows, look for something witha low-e or emissivity rating. That rating refers to a window coatingthat reduces heat losses from inside the house in winter whilereflecting heat from the outside in summer. Don't add reflective filmor window tinting to these new windows, however. That causes heat tobuild up faster than the window can dissipate it, wearing out theseals and likely voiding the warranty.

And if all else fails, there's always the air conditioned movietheater for temporary respite.

Did you know?

Reflective film or tints should not be applied to the surface of theglass in many types of insulated, double-pane windows. These can causeexcessive heat buildup and ultimately cause the seals around thewindow to fail.

On the web:U.S. Department of Energy tips for cooling your home

http://www.eere.energy.gov/consumerinfo/

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department of energy savers link

2004-06-28T13:49:00.000-07:00

Browse on how to keep your home cool.

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Hunter Douglas Cellular Shades inventory search

2004-06-28T12:49:00.000-07:00

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squeaky floors tip double cellular shades comfortex cellular shades

2004-06-18T21:03:00.000-07:00

Squeaky floors tip

To prevent squeaky floors, sprinkle a little talcum or baby powder on the area, rub in lightly and remaining powder away.

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returning to an empty house safety tip

2004-06-18T20:55:00.001-07:00

cellular shades tip

When returning to an empty house after a period of time, it's a good idea to ring your own doorbell and wait a minute or so before entering. This could scare off any intruder that might be inside.

Don't Stay in the Dark When It Comes to Lighting

2004-06-10T21:44:00.000-07:00

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Proper lighting in a home is more than just high wattage. It means having enough lighting for each task and occasion.

"For my money, if your house is a little brighter, you feel a little better," says Phillip Bonello, president and CEO of Lighting For the Home, a catalog and Internet source for lighting products, including lamps, lighting and replacement bulbs.

To adequately fill a room with light, ambient and task lighting are needed.

"Ambient light comes from a single source, like natural light," Bonello says. "Task lighting is what we use for reading or cooking."

Combining ceiling lights with table and floor lamps at differing heights creates overlapping pools of light.

"Lighting is usually the last thing on people's minds when they rehab or decorate," Bonello says.

It is easier and less expensive to plan lighting and install it during the early stages of a project or as the home is being built. But that doesn't mean you can't go back and add lights after you've decorated.

If you're working with a designer, observe the process.

Let's look at a typical living room. Lighting designs should integrate various types of lamps for flexibility to create different moods and an interesting overall look.

Lighting designers include five to 10 light sources of directed and diffused light in each room. These can include track lighting to illuminate a wall of artwork or a bookcase, a reading lamp next to your recliner, a pendant lamp over your coffee table, a table lamp at the end of your sofa, two buffet lamps on your credenza and a spotlight highlighting a particular piece.

The main lighting concern in the dining room is lighting the tabletop. Keep in mind other activities being done there like homework or crafts.

Hanging lamps should have a clearance of 20 to 24 inches above the table to avoid glare from the bulb. Long dining tables benefit from several smaller hanging lights rather than one large one.

Artwork should be spotlighted and buffets can have lamps to even out the light.

The right light in the right place makes the kitchen a pleasant and safer place to work. General lighting from a ceiling fixture with a dimmer starts things off.

Small halogen lights mounted under cabinets illuminate work areas. If you have glass-fronted cabinets, fill them with glasses and china and illuminate them with tiny spotlights.

Bedroom lighting needs to be flexible enough to let you match your socks in the morning, light up that mystery novel for bedtime reading and provide a cozy retreat feeling. In addition to general lighting from a ceiling lamp, you'll also want to emphasize artwork and special furniture pieces.

Children's rooms also need lighting next to a cozy place for reading stories. Wall lamps help eliminate the danger of kids becoming tangled in cords. If cords can't be helped, clip them securely to the wall.

Most builders provide bathroom lighting, but you may want to consider additional character lights.

Halogen bulbs in particular add sparkle to the smooth surfaces in bathrooms.

In the den, you'll need a general background lighting in addition to desk lamps for work surfaces, at the computer and for any craft areas.

Lighting designers are constantly bringing new products such as halogen ceiling lights, which are significantly smaller than the incandescent can lights of just a few years ago.

Great deals on lighting:

|

The Right Decor Completes the Log Home Lifestyle

2004-06-04T14:32:00.000-07:00

- Owning a log home has long been defined as living and loving a certain lifestyle. Whether the log home is of traditional design and located on a remote hillside or a totally contemporary model in a resort community, the owners are often independent spirits who enjoy the attention a unique home offers. They love being surrounded by the ambience of natural wood and the feeling of rootedness these sturdy homes imply.
Kathy and Dave Janczak of Wisconsin Log Homes have been building these custom log beauties for more than 25 years -- starting with their very own home. They are not surprised by the continuing appeal of log homes, but they have noticed an interesting change in the way their customers are approaching building these days.

"When we first started in this business," Dave says, "the majority of our buyers were the hands-on types. They wanted to be right there and involved in the building." Now it seems that trend has changed. Current buyers are often professional couples who are way too involved in their careers and other aspects of their lives to want to micro-manage the building of their log home. While they will often have very definite ideas about the interior layout and what they want the home to look like, they are very willing to turn the process over to the log home manufacturer once these aspects have been determined. They want their particular log home to look like those they've seen in the log home magazines, but they don't have the time or inclination to make that look happen.

This trend has brought about some interesting changes in the industry. At Wisconsin Log Homes, for instance, they don't just design and build the custom log homes, they are now involved in interior design and furnishings as well. "We find more and more of our customers wanting us to handle the total package," Kathy states. That has meant adding a design center full of custom furniture, lighting, cabinetry and floor coverings, along with specialty items, all specially designed for log homes. People are no longer content just to live in log homes, they want a coordinated feel inside and out that says "log home lifestyle." Much of what is offered in most furniture stores just doesn't fit that image. The scale is too small, or the style too formal.

Log home furniture might feature wood frames and intriguing upholstery patterns and colors. The beds may be made of logs and the headboards intricately carved with outdoor scenes. The lighting fixtures, including table lamps and chandeliers, can be made from antlers or have rustic metal shades featuring cut-out silhouettes. Everything from carved front doors and mantles to log staircases and window frames -- it all comes together for that total log home feel. The Janzcaks find that their customers are thrilled to discover the variety of furniture and specialty items all available in one place and all featured in a log home showroom that helps them visualize what their final product will look like.

"Log home buyers are certainly immersed in finding and creating a home that is theirs inside and out," says Dave Janczak. "They tend to do a lot of research before building by reading log home magazines and checking out various Web sites. They definitely know what they want." By taking advantage of the knowledge and enthusiasm of their buyers, and by adding their own expertise in the log home industry, the Janczaks work to make each of their custom homes a unique creation reflecting that particular buyer's needs and taste.

The log home design center is a natural progression in the log home buying process. The concept is new to the industry and was generated by customers' requests for help. "Often times they knew furniture and fixtures like this existed, because they had seen them in photos," Kathy states, "but just didn't know where to begin. Now they can walk into one place, or visit the Wisconsin Log Home Web site, and it's all there for them."
This innovative idea of one-stop shopping for log home buyers is sure to make log homes even more popular. It's a place to tie it all together so that each new home has the look, feel and furnishings that only a log home can supply.

For further information about the Wisconsin Log Home Design Center call (800) 678-9107 or visit their Web site at www.wisconsinloghome.com.

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Landscape Lighting Provides Beauty, Security

2004-06-04T14:27:00.000-07:00

- If you're like most people, your home is the single biggest investment you'll ever make. Your home is your castle and your yard is your domain. But for a good part of the year, by the time you get home from work, your yard is dark. You can't see the landscape at all, and the house fades into the night. More and more people are finding that architectural and landscape lighting allows them to extend the enjoy deck more have discovered the benefits of enclosing all or part of their outdoor living areas with glass, creating a seasonal or year round retreat.

Enclosing a porch or deck with glass is the most cost-effective way to create a sunroom, according to Marc Fox of Patio Enclosures, Inc., North America's largest custom manufacturer and installer of glass enclosures.

"Homeowners are so pleased when we tell them they can save money by utilizing an existing cement porch slab and an overhang. We simply enclose the room with sliding glass doors or large windows and screens that are customized to fit their particular space," reports Fox.

The porch is transformed from a place only usable when the weather is right, to added living space that lets the homeowner "control the weather." Imagine staying out late on a warm summer night in screened comfort, even when the mosquitoes are biting, or watching the sunrise with a warm cup of coffee on a crisp fall morning. Envision experiencing a rainstorm, cozy and dry, from inside your new glass-enclosed porch.

By enclosing a porch with glass, a homeowner can actually turn outdoor space into indoor space, with the flexibility of screens to bring the outdoors in at any time. Three-season rooms are often decorated with wicker, rattan or wrought iron furniture for a casual, outdoor look. Vertical blinds or pleated shades give the room a finished feeling and add privacy and temperature control. Homeowners often find their new sunrooms make relaxing family recreation areas and lovely places to dine.

Adding a glass enclosure will increase the value of a home as well. The return on investment is 70 percent nationwide, and even more in areas where the weather is harsh, according to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry.

When considering a three-season glass enclosure, keep in mind that because it is not designed to be heated, it is typically closed off from the rest of the house in winter. If you want to use your room all year round, use insulated glass. Insulated glass, although it is more expensive, enables the room to be effectively heated in the winter and air-conditioned in the summer months.

With both types of rooms you can select full-length sliding doors, or sliding windows, which are built over a short knee wall. Either way, be sure to use 100 percent tempered glass for safety. Tempered glass is stronger than regular window glass and will not break as easily.

For a free booklet about creating a glass enclosure on your home, call (800) 480-1966 or visit www.patioenclosuresinc.com.

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2004-06-04T13:45:00.000-07:00

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House Inspecting: 10 Things To Check Yourself

2004-05-25T21:06:00.000-07:00

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Even new homes may have hidden problems. Here are ten clues for determining a house's overall quality before you commit to the cost of hiring a house inspector:

1) The structure. From a reasonably distant vantage point, look at the house. Do the walls appear to be plumb and flat? From inside, are any walls bowed or not square at corners? When you jump in the middle of the living room floor, does it flex or feel solid?

2) Water control. Does the ground slope away from the base of the house? Will gutters, downspouts and drainage pipes carry excess water away from the house... or into the basement? Is there any evidence of water damage?

3) The roof. Is the roof new and in good shape? Does it look neat and properly applied?

4) Details. Do you see signs of quality workmanship in the finish details such as moldings, tilework, hardware and paint?

5) Kitchen & bath fixtures. Are sinks, toilets and tubs quality fixtures? Do they work properly? Is the water pressure good when you turn on the faucets and flush the toilet?

6) Electrical system. Are the number and locations of receptacles adequate to the needs of the house? Is the main circuit breaker marked at least "100 amps"?

7) Water heater, plumbing. Is the water heater gas or electric (gas is much more efficient)? Water supply pipes from the water heater to fixtures should be copper.

8) Heating. Where is the furnace or heater located and what type is it? Are any rooms not heated? Do registers look adequate for heating the spaces? Is the house air-conditioned?

9) Insulation. Look in the attic for insulation; R-19 (6 inches of fiberglass, for example) is a minimum in moderate climates; up to R-38 (12 inches of fiberglass) is required in cold climates. Remove a receptacle cover on perimeter wall to check for wall insulation.

10) Fireplaces. Do they have screens or glass doors (doors are more efficient). What about dampers and log lighters? Is there a combustion vent that draws air from outside and a spark arrestor at the top of the chimney?

Decorate For Happiness: How Color Affects Mood et za cellular shades

2004-05-15T08:51:00.000-07:00

More of us are experimenting with color in our homes. If you've ever wondered why this room is so depressing, that room feels so lively and that other room just doesn't feel right, take a moment to discover the meaning behind color and how it can affect you.

There are three groups of colors: primary, secondary and tertiary. The primary colors are red, blue and yellow. Secondary colors are green, orange and purple. The tertiary colors (aka intermediate colors) are red-violet, blue-violet, blue-green, yellow-green, yellow-orange, and red-orange.

Primary colors are pure, meaning that no mix is needed to achieve them. Secondary colors are created by mixing equal proportions of two primary colors. For example, if you mix equal portions of red and blue, you get purple. Tertiary colors are (aka intermediate colors) are made by mixing a secondary and a primary color, eg, red and purple make pink.

One of the most important tools an interior decorator uses is a color wheel. The color wheel is a chart of colors that demonstrate the relationship between colors. For example, complementary colors (eg, red and green) are opposite each other. Analogous colors (eg, red and yellow) are side by side.

Becoming familiar with colors and how they relate to each other is integral to understanding how color evokes moods. The color wheel is divided into warm and cool colors. The warm side is red to yellow-green. The cool side is from green-blue to violet. Warm colors are known to excite; cools colors to calm. Depending on the hue, color can over stimulate or depress. It is usually in the tertiary colors that we find the right balance. The following is a list of attributes that are widely described to primary and secondary colors.

--Red: (think passion) stimulates, arouses, heightens awareness.

--Blue: (think water; the ocean) relaxes, calms, transfixes.

--Yellow: (think sun) recharges, energizes, revitalizes.

Secondary colors create gradations of the feelings attributed to primary colors.

--Green: (Blue/Yellow) stabilizes, balances.

--Orange: (Red/Green) cheers, orders.

--Purple: (Blue/Red) protects, comforts.

Now that you know more about which colors evoke what moods, it should be easier to begin selecting colors that not only fit your design palette, but your emotional palette as well.

Warm colors work well in areas where you wish to stimulate conversation and promote interaction. Think lively yellow in the kitchen; demure red in the living room; terra cotta orange in the den. These are rooms where family and friends congregate and interaction is expected. By contrast, you want to put cool colors in areas where you relax: lavender bathroom; ocean-blue bedroom; forest green study.

Although these are widely accepted notions, the assignment of qualities to color is based on culture. For example, in America, black is for mourning. In China, it's white. The use of color in your home can be fun and exciting. Yuwanda Black, co-owner of the online retailer EthnicHomeDecor.com states. "I love color. It makes me feel complete. My home runs the gamut: green bathroom, lavender bedroom and an orange/terra cotta color in the living room."The overwhelming emotion you want to feel at home is happiness - so consult a color wheel and start painting!

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Five-And-a-Half Cost Effective Tips for Accessorizing Your Bathroom

2004-05-08T18:21:00.000-07:00

- In the movie Steel Magnolias, the character Clairee declares that, "The only thing that separates us from the animals is our ability to accessorize." Well -- she's right!

One room that can really benefit from a little freshening up is the bathroom. By adding accents and accessories, we can make our bathrooms more inviting. Here are some cost effective solutions for accessorizing and revitalizing your bathroom.

Begin by picking a design theme or color scheme. (See tip number five-and-a-half for further advice.) This narrows the focus and will help you in the decision- making process.

Tip #1 -- Dry Colorfully

If the color of your bathroom is monotone, where everything is white -- walls, fixtures and counters -- changing the towels can bring an entirely new look to the room. The selection of towels to choose from is almost endless. There are vibrant, solid colors for a bold accent. Printed or embroidered towels are available in virtually any theme or style from traditional to tropical.

Consider purchasing a set of towels for seasonal use. You do not have to purchase all new towels, just enough that to create a visual difference between summer and winter. Two each of the bath towels, hand towels and washcloths may be enough. For the year-round towels, select neutral tones or solids that coordinate with your decor. For the seasonal accent towels, select lighter, brighter colors and patterns for summer and darker, richer tones and patterns for winter.

Tip #2 -- Dramatic Curtains

Shower curtains are one of the most dramatic accessories in the bathroom, and can change the room's look instantly. As with towels, the colors and patterns of curtains available seem virtually endless.

To create a warmer, more refined look, use fabric shower curtains with a printed or embroidered pattern. Vinyl shower curtains tend to be less expensive. They provide a more casual and sometimes whimsical tone to the bathroom like hula girls and an underwater scene with brightly colored tropical fish.

Tip #3 -- Jazz It Up

A bathroom "ensemble" typically includes a waste can, boutique tissue holder, tumbler, toothbrush holder, soap dish, lotion/soap dispenser and jar for incidental items. You do not have to purchase the entire set to perk up a tired bathroom. If you have limited space, consider just the waste can and tumbler.

When selecting a style, make sure it fits with the overall look of the room. There are a number of styles to choose from -- modern, traditional, whimsical and formal, as well as styles appropriate for a children's bathroom. Finishes include metallic and materials that mimic ceramic with patterns that range from floral to exotic.

Tip #4 -- Apply Yourself

There is a relatively new product on the market called Stick'n Stile that allows you to decorate your bathroom tile and tub area without replacing your current bathroom tile. What really makes this product unique, especially for those living in apartments, is the fact that it is removable. Stick'n Stile adds interest to tile walls by breaking up the space, and it is another way to add color to the bathroom.

Stick'n Stile is available in a variety of patterns that coordinate with other bathroom accessories. These design appliques can be applied safely to tile, shower doors and mirrors as well as plastic and fiberglass tub surrounds. No special adhesive is required. Simply peel off the paper backing and press in place. They are "permanent" until you decide it's time for them to go. Then, simply heat each tile with a hairdryer for a few minutes and peel it off.

Tip # 5 -- Artistic Reflection

Set the tone for the bathroom by treating it like any other room in the house. Hang art on the walls, or install a small shelf for displaying knickknacks or other treasured items.

Mirrors are a welcome addition in small bathrooms. A collection of small mirrors finished in decorative frames adds glamour to your bathroom. They also reflect light to make the space appear brighter and larger. Use an odd number of small mirrors -- one, three, five -- in combination with other artwork. Before hammering nails in the wall, place all the items on the floor until you have the arrangement you like.

For the do-it-yourselfer, purchase decorative picture frames and replace the glass with mirror. And remember -- mirrors and pictures should be hung at eye level.

Tip #5 1/2 -- Make Peace

For those living in apartments, accessorizing a bathroom can be challenging, especially if you do not like the existing colors. Don't work against what you've got, work with it. The same can be said for those with a bathroom they don't like but simply can not afford to remodel.

What if you prefer bright accent colors like candy-apple red, but have a bathroom filled with earth tones? You may have to compromise, but there is a way to work with the color scheme that is already there. Your favorite color probably won't work, so try a red with some earthiness to it, like terracotta or poppy. Find a color that pleases you that does not fight the colors already there.

Hang a piece of artwork that includes both the colors you already have (but are not crazy about).

Bathrooms are a Home's True Underachievers

2004-04-27T21:27:00.000-07:00

Research shows Americans are slow to invest in major bathroom remodels, but new products can enhance an existing bath

- Judging by the myriad of magazines, decorating shows and how-to books that assail the average homeowner, it's easy to believe that Americans live in the lap of lavatory luxury. It's a world of gold-plated, claw-footed soaking tubs, special steam showers and huge, double-sink vanities in everyone's home but yours, right?

Wrong. While new home builders and developers know and provide what people really want in the bath, homeowners tend to be painfully slow about upgrading their existing baths.

Leading plumbing fixture and accessory manufacturer Moen Inc., which is also a leading researcher in trends related to kitchens and baths, says its data shows that most Americans have plenty of work to do if they are to catch up with the bathroom ideal.

For example only 14 percent of American homes' master bathrooms have a stand-alone tub and separate shower stall. That compares with (an estimated) 98 percent of the bathrooms shown in the average home-decorating magazine! But it's no wonder -- more than half of homeowners report that their master bath is less than 75 square feet in size.

Also, more than half of us shower every morning not behind a decorative etched glass door or a marble dividing wall, but behind the common shower curtain. You won't see many of those advertised in the latest edition of "Dream Baths."

Too often, the bathroom plays second fiddle to the kitchen when it comes to prioritizing home renovation projects, according to Wanda Jankowski, editor of Kitchen & Bath Business magazine. "The kitchen has retained and even built upon its position as the focal point of the home and a center of both socialization and function. But the master bathroom is still stuck in its hygienic role and remains a private abode that doesn't get as many opportunities to impress visiting guests," said Jankowski. Couple that with the fact that a bathroom renovation can be nearly as involved and expensive as a kitchen makeover and you have the makings for procrastination on the part of otherwise conscientious homeowners.

Research Reveals The Bathroom "Truth"

Moen's research shows that the bath is definitely behind the times. In fact, there's a good chance that a master bathroom will have an old-style combination shower and tub -- a 72 percent chance if the home is more than 20 years old. There's still a 62 percent chance of finding a tub/shower combination in an 11- to 20-year old home.

Even the folks at Moen were a bit surprised at some of the findings their research turned up when the company recently conducted a "bathroom inventory" survey that took an in-depth look at the bathrooms of more than 2,400 U.S. homeowners.

According to Jack Suvak, Moen director of consumer and trade research, the company deals so much with new construction or professional sources of remodeling, that even it can get a somewhat skewed view of what's really out there in people's homes. "This sort of research is good for us, because it reminds us of what people have in their existing homes -- and that gives us a better idea of what sort of things professional remodelers and do-it-yourselfers will need in the future," Suvak said.

Innovations for Existing Bathrooms

Thanks in part to researching what people want and what they will use, Moen has introduced products that will make the most of an existing bathroom. For example, its Revolution massaging showerhead economically turns an existing shower stall into a personal masseuse.

The idea for this product was born out of extensive research with consumers, including conducting in-depth interviews with people who kept diaries of their showering habits, surveying shoppers in the showerhead aisle, and actually videotaping people's shower routines (with permission, of course).

Because the Revolution showerhead can be added to an existing shower arm, this product is the perfect addition for consumers who want something different in their baths but don't have the space (or budget) for a complete remodel. Revolution spins, twists and swirls the water for phenomenal coverage and a unique showering experience.

Another recent Moen introduction, the M*PACT valve, was created for the consumer who constantly desires change and an updated look. This valve, once installed, allows for easy faucet changeouts to new trim from above the sink. Changeouts can be accomplished just as easily in the shower by removing the trim without having to go behind the wall. And, the new look can even be carried over to accessories. In this way, consumers can easily change the look of their bath in just a few minutes -- without a large expense.

"The world is very stressful today and bath products can help you de-stress and offer you a better quality of life," says Jankowski. She adds that bathroom makeovers can increase the value of the home to both its present owners as well as potential future buyers.

So, if you're looking through one of your favorite home-improvement magazines wishing you had a bathroom like the ones inside, take a fresh look at the products currently on the market that can update your existing bath. Look for products that can provide luxury benefits and great looks to further enhance the quality of your life, as well as the value of your home.

For more information about products or remodeling projects, contact Moen Incorporated at 25300 Al Moen Drive, North Olmsted, Ohio 44070-8022, call toll free 1-800-BUY MOEN (1-800-289-6636) or visit its Web site at www.moen.com.

Dirty Laundry Reveals Personality Types - cellular shades

2004-04-18T10:06:00.000-07:00

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- Believe it or not, your dirty laundry can be quite revealing. Not the kind of dirty laundry that makes tabloid headlines -- the real stuff, the dirty clothes that lurk in your hamper and seem to grow into piles of mind-boggling dimensions in no time at all.

When faced with the never-ending task of laundry, there are four basic types of people, according to the Queen of Clean(R), Linda Cobb. Cobb, a best-selling author and radio and television personality, is one of America's foremost authorities on housekeeping and laundry care.

"I've developed a motto for the four laundry personalities I've identified," says Cobb. "The first, and most common, motto is 'So much laundry, so little time.' Typically, these people have no time to spare and have perfected the art of multi-tasking. While appearance may be important to this person, doing laundry is just a means to an end."

Cobb's tips for the time-crunched can help streamline the laundry process. She recommends:

-- Emptying the dryer's lint-clogged vent regularly so clothes will dry faster.

-- Changing the setting on the washer to suit the load size, especially for small loads.

-- Using detergent tabs rather than powder or liquid -- just drop them in and go!

-- Making laundry easier for kids to put away (so you don't have to) by having easy-to-reach hooks and low-hanging bars in their closets.

The motto for the second group is, "Don't do laundry today that you can put off until tomorrow." This type believes that nothing is so pressing that it has to be done immediately -- especially laundry! These folks know every excuse in the book to put off laundry -- or getting someone else to do it for them.

Laundry procrastinators can make the chore easier using these tips:

-- Pre-sort dirty clothes into color-coded baskets or bins as soon as you take them off.

-- If you leave a load of clean clothes in the dryer and they become a wrinkled mess, simply toss a damp towel in with the load and re-run the dryer for a few minutes.

-- Stock up on laundry products so you have what you need on hand, resulting in fewer trips to the store.

-- Don't overstuff the washer or dryer, since it will cause clothes to come out wrinkled and not as clean.

The third group believes "If you want laundry done right, you have to do it yourself." These people's lives are orderly and methodical, and so is their approach to laundry. They tend to make laundry part of their daily routine and approach it with a full arsenal of laundry products that give them a good value for their money, such as Purex laundry detergent, which is about half the cost of the leading brand.

Even these well-organized people can benefit from some of Cobb's tips:

-- Zip up the laundry routine by doing exactly that: zip zippers, button buttons and hook hooks. That way, you'll avoid catching, pulling and tearing fabric during the wash cycle.

-- Before storing seasonal clothes, be sure to launder them first to avoid letting undetected stains set or attracting moths or other insects.

-- Always check garments for colorfastness when using stain removers, even if the garments have already been laundered.

The fourth school of thought believes that "a little dirt never hurt anyone." The last thing that bothers these people is a pile of dirty laundry. And since they don't worry much about appearance, they don't think twice about wearing the same clothes two days in a row.

Cobb's tips for this laundry type include:

-- Instead of folding or hanging clean clothes, toss t-shirts, gym clothes or other active wear onto an over-the-door shoe rack.

-- If you happen to leave a piece of tissue in a pocket and it makes a mess in the washer or dryer, put a piece of nylon netting in the dryer with the clothes to catch the fuzz.

-- Use a fragrant detergent to keep clothes smelling fresh longer.

-- Use a super-concentrated stain remover, such as Zout, and let it sit on fabric for five to 10 minutes for best stain removal.

Cobb has tested hundreds of laundry products and recommends only the best of each category on her Web site, www.queenofclean.com. Two products she recommends to make anyone's laundry routine easier are Purex detergent and Zout stain remover. In conjunction with these two products, the Queen of Clean(R) is currently on a quest to find "America's Messiest Laundry Room" via a nationwide contest that will award a $10,000 laundry room makeover. To enter, visit www.queenofclean.com, www.purex.com or www.zout.com. You can also visit these sites for helpful housekeeping tips. cellular shades

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Professional Chefs Offer Favorite Kitchen Gadget Gift Ideas

2004-04-17T18:20:00.000-07:00

- Just in time for Mother's Day, Father's Day and bridal showers, here are some gift-giving suggestions for your favorite kitchen gadget lover courtesy of the professional chefs from the culinary programs of The Art Institutes. From Atlanta to Minneapolis, Denver to Los Angeles, the one kitchen tool that kept coming up on the lists was a mandoline slicer. The slicer device is often made of stainless steel, which slices, grates and chops vegetables and fruits, as well as other firm foods.

"The mandoline is handy, it's quick -- it's a great timesaver," says chef John Fisher of The Art Institute of Seattle. "Plastic versions run from $30 to $60 and professional metal mandolines run from $85 to $110."

Other suggestions range from the simple - paring knife, mallet, and blender -- to the not so simple -- induction stove and pans and a backyard wood-burning pizza oven. And one of the chefs says he once gave his wife a smoke detector for the kitchen and it has turned out to be the best and most used gift ever.

Top favorites from The Art Institutes chefs:

Chef Jim Morris, The Art Institute of Atlanta

Food processor

Mandoline slicer

Marinating syringe

Chef Richard Battista, The Art Institute of California - Los Angeles

Commercial-level food processor

Kitchen paring knife

Mandoline for cutting vegetables

Chef Chris DeJohn, The Art Institute of Colorado

Coffee grinder for blending spices

Food dehydrator

French or Chinese mandoline for cutting vegetables

Good mallet to pound your favorite veal dish

Handheld immersion blender

Induction stove and pans

Pasta machine

Smoker for outside the kitchen

Chef Ted Reemtsma, The Art Institute of Houston

Handheld immersion blender

Pepper mill

Pizza stone

Chef Amy Carter, The Art Institutes International Minnesota

Butane mini-torch

Instant digital thermometer

Mandoline

Potato ricer

Chef Byron Korus, The Art Institutes International Minnesota

Chinois (a finely meshed, cone-shaped strainer for straining sauces)

Gas satay grill

Mandoline

Master Chef Walter Leible, The Art Institute of Phoenix

Backyard wood- burning pizza oven

Chef Bill Sy, The Art Institute of Phoenix

Home ice cream maker machine

Rice cooker/steamer

Pasta drying rack

Set of cleavers

Chef John Fisher, The Art Institute of Seattle

Digital thermometer

Fish poacher

Garlic peeler

Handheld immersion blender

Mandoline

Stove-top pan smoker

The Art Institutes system of 24 educational institutions is located nationwide, providing an important source of design, media arts, fashion and culinary professionals. The Art Institutes have provided career-oriented education programs for over 35 years, with more than 125,000 graduates. For more information, visit The Art Institutes Web site at www.artinstitutes.edu/nz.

The Season's Most Fashionable Kitchen Sink: White is all the Rage, but Stains are Passé

2004-04-17T18:02:00.000-07:00

Swanstone, the leader in stain resistant white solid surface kitchen sinks, offers cleaning advice

- According to fashion gurus, white is this season's black. And consumers' interest in the clean, pure, bright look of white is not just limited to their closets and dresser drawers. In growing numbers, homeowners are embracing the striking and elegant look of the white kitchen sink.

Just as with clothing, however, keeping a white sink bright and stain-free can pose a cleaning challenge. According to Swanstone, the makers of one of the most stain resistant white solid surface sinks on the market, following a few simple guidelines can ensure that the white kitchen sink stays fashionably clean and bright, regardless of the season.

"For decades, consumers have faced the frustration of keeping the traditional white sink free from stains and discoloration," says Peter Warren, president of Swanstone. "The key is to begin with a high quality, stain resistant surface, and then spend a few seconds each day to preserve that clean, white look."

Sharing decades of expertise, Swanstone has developed easy care and cleaning tips to help consumers keep their white sinks stain-free:

* Rinse out the sink and wipe it down after each use

* Avoid leaving teabags, coffee grounds and acidic foods on a white sink, because they can leave stubborn stains.

* If a stain does appear, use a powdered cleanser and plastic scrubbing pad, or mix a 50/50 solution of household bleach and water and use a sponge or plastic pad to work out the discoloration

* Never use steel wool or a metal scouring pad on a white sink, as they can scratch the surface.

In the end, ensuring your white kitchen sink retains its pure color begins at the point of purchase: choose one engineered for superior stain resistance. Long known for its product innovations, Swanstone recently reformulated the unique material used to make its white kitchen sink to be even more resistant to staining and discoloration. In addition, the Swanstone white kitchen sink is made from a renewable solid surface, so even the most troubling stain or gouge can be sanded and buffed back to its original, clean look.

Swanstone's stain resistant white kitchen sink is available at Home Depot and Lowe's home centers, or from professional plumbing distributors and kitchen and bath dealers. To locate a dealer, go to www.swanstone.com .

Helpful Hints and Innovative Tools Make Gardening Easier for Seniors

2004-04-16T20:26:00.000-07:00

- Gardening can enrich life in many ways, physically, mentally and spiritually. But it can also be hard work, especially as you get older. That does not mean you have to stop gardening, though. It simply means you have to rethink how you garden.

For starters, consider incorporating some of these garden planning principles:

* Raised beds and trellises are easier to maintain than in-ground beds.

* Garden beds should be no more than 4 feet wide to allow tending the bed without straining.

* Wide garden paths allow for safer walking and permit use of labor saving carts and dollies.

* Water weighs more than 8 pounds per gallon, so design your garden with easy access to hoses and water sources. Consider the ultimate water system: an efficient automated drip or soaker hose system.

Before getting started on your plans, however, it's important to obtain the proper tools. Avid gardeners recommend high quality, ergonomically designed tools specially developed to multiply cutting power and minimize stress to your body.

"Working in the garden can become a hassle, cause pain and, in extreme cases, lead to disorders like carpal tunnel syndrome," says Nate Fethke, ergonomics engineer, Fiskars Garden Tools. "That's why it's important to use tools that match your capabilities, limitations and any special needs," he adds.

There are a number of tools available today that do just that. Consider the Extended Reach grass and hedge shears. With a reach of 38 inches, this tool lets you trim grass while standing up, eliminating bending, stooping and kneeling -- something aging backs and knees will truly appreciate. The same tool also features an adjustable cutting head that rotates 270 degrees, allowing you to safely trim the tops of hedges without using a ladder.

If it's your hands and wrists that trouble you, the Power-Lever hand pruner will make your day. The mechanical advantage of the lever mechanism allows you to multiply your cutting power by more than 35 percent compared to ordinary garden tools. The handle design, which keeps the handles parallel throughout the cut, allows all fingers to assist in pruning, which minimizes strain and maximizes your power through a cut. Its sleek, lightweight form is also perfect for gardeners with small- to medium-sized hands.

Want to trim branches overhead without using a ladder? How about at ground level without bending, stooping or kneeling? The Pruning Stik is the most versatile pruning tool ever, and one of the easiest to use. It features a cutting head that rotates on a 240-degree arc, enabling the user to set the proper cutting angle for any pruning task. The tool is activated by pulling on the handle halfway up the Stik, or by pulling on the ball end of the Stik when needed at its full length. The Pruning Stik has an overall length of 62 inches, but weighs a mere 31 ounces.

Now that you've made plans and armed yourself with the proper tools, it's time to get gardening. Keep these helpful tips in mind to ensure a safe and healthy experience:

* Garden early or late in the day to avoid the heat.

* Drink plenty of liquids and wear light, loose clothing, a big sun hat and gardening gloves.

* Carry a whistle or cell phone along with your other garden tools.

For more information on ergonomic tools and other helpful gardening tips, visit www.fiskars.com. To locate a retailer near you that carries ergonomic garden tools, call (800) 500-4849.

Bring the Elegance of Stained Glass into Your Kitchen or Bath

2004-04-16T20:15:00.000-07:00

Decorative Glass makes it easy to add color, texture

- Your home is your refuge from the outside world, a place where you surround yourself with family, memories, treasure and laughter. Because no two people are alike, no two homes are identical, either.

Even if your house looks like every other house on the block from the outside, on the inside, you have a chance to express your individuality, to make your house a place that reflects who you are.

There are countless ways to personalize your living space. Even a fresh coat of paint in a new color can make a big difference. When you think about ways to enhance your windows, instead of drapes, consider decorative glass. It is easier than you think to add the distinctive touch of stained glass to your windows.

Stained Glass Overlay (SGO) creates beautiful glass using colors and patterns that complement your existing design scheme. "We bring the traditions, craftsmanship and artisanship from early centuries to our art and trade everyday," says company president Michael Cassidy. The company offers over 200 colors and textures to choose from when making your selection. Each project is handcrafted; the glass is UV resistant and as durable as safety glass. "Our designers handle all the details as they work together with the customer to enhance the windows and glass that surround their life," adds Cassidy.

A decorative glass panel can be swapped out for existing glass, which is the case with smaller pieces, such as cabinet windows, or it can be installed up against the existing glass, creating a seamless appearance. The process used to apply the stained glass pattern to the glass makes it extremely strong and allows for versatility of installation.

While decorative glass can be used in any window, two rooms that really benefit from the color and interest it adds are the kitchen and the bathroom. The possibilities are endless. Your kitchen window looks out on your neighbor's garage? Choose decorative glass in the Rose Bouquet or Autumn Jewels pattern, and you will have a view of beautiful flowers all year round. In the bathroom, you can add privacy to the glass shower stall by adding decorative glass. Try "Seaside Whisper" for a water-inspired theme.

If you need help deciding on a design, don't worry. Your SGO designer has an extensive library and catalog of custom work the company has completed for clients over the years. The patterns represent blueprints of history, culture and modern design. Your designer can offer suggestions and provide valuable tips on which design and colors would work best for you.

For example, when choosing colors for your decorative glass, keep in mind that bright, intense colors will add warmth to north-facing rooms that get little or no sunlight. On the other hand, cool colors, such as blues and greens, can cool down a south-facing room subjected to too much sunlight.

In addition to adding interest to your windows, decorative glass can also solve some common problems by adding privacy, blocking out UV rays that can fade furniture and carpets, and dealing with unique shaped windows that can be hard to accessorize.

Decorative glass can also be used in front-door sidelights, skylights, ceiling light panels, light boxes, mirrors, sliding glass doors, cabinet and furniture doors and room dividers -- just use your imagination. "Any room and any home can be made more personal and more beautiful with the addition of decorative glass," says Cassidy.

Stained Glass Overlay serves customers across North America and in over 30 countries around the world. For more information on finding the designer nearest you, or to find out about franchise opportunities, visit www.stainedglassoverlay.com or call (800) 944-4746.

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American Brand Cellular Shades

2004-04-16T12:18:00.000-07:00

American Brand Cellular Shades - Our most popular brand
The most popular brand of blinds at decoratetoday.com is our American Brand blinds. During the 50 years we have been selling blinds, we have determined the best qualities and material for each type of window treatment. Armed with this knowledge, we developed our own line of window treatments, one that combines the highest quality products with the most popular and intelligent designs. We then went to the leaders in the industry including Levolor and other major manufacturers, and they agreed to manufacture blinds for us exactly to our rigorous specifications. These top quality window treatments are now sold under the American Brand. And, since we eliminated the middleman, we are able to offer you the guaranteed lowest prices on the undisputed highest quality blinds. We are so confident in our products, we guarantee the quality of the American Brand.

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