Family Moments around the Fireplace

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There are so many ways that we get distracted, it’s easy to have an excuse for not regularly spending time together as a family. Families are more plugged into entertainment devices than ever before, and although global communication has advanced greatly, the irony is that we’re becoming more closed off to the people around us. It’s important that families devote some time together, because sometimes growing up means growing apart. Developing a routine or ritual is a great way to maintain family cohesion, and the fireplace is a great place to form those bonds. Even if you don’t have a fireplace, portable fireplaces are easy to install, so any family can spend time together around the fire.
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Slow Cooker Recipes for Meat Lovers

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When you think of slow cooking, the first thing that comes to mind is probably some kind of meat dish. Roast beef, turkey, pot roast, a rack of ribs—all these go quite well in the slow cooker, and as any meat lover would know, it’s one of the best ways to prepare meat. But just as there are different kinds of meat, there are different ways to cook them—and that’s especially true when it comes to slow cooking. It takes some skill and a bit of experimentation to know which recipes for slow cookers work best.

It’s not as hard as it seems, of course. In fact, experts often advise kitchen beginners to start with slow cooking because it’s so easy. All you need to do is prepare the ingredients and turn it on. Just like any other kitchen task, it’s mostly a matter of technique. Once you know how your slow cooker works and the basics of cooking with meat, you can start cooking in no time—and even making your own recipes! If you’re not sure how to get started, read on for a few handy tips.

Browning meat

Many people choose to brown their meat before putting them in the slow cooker, although this isn’t always necessary. The main advantage to browning is that it seals the flavors in, which keeps them from drying out during the long cooking time. Some also find that it adds more flavor to slow cooker beef recipes, since some fat is released during the browning. If you do opt for it, make sure to do it fast as meats can easily overcook.

The main drawback of browning, of course, is the added fat. If you’re concerned about your meat’s fat content, you may want to skip this step altogether. If browning is necessary, you can blot the oil out with paper towels before adding them to the pot. You can also trim off the fat if you want to—this is especially easy with chicken, turkey, and cuts like pork chop and ham.

Making roasts

Roasts are probably the most popular way to slow-cook meat. One reason is that it’s easy—you don’t need to chop, skin, trim, or cut up the meat beforehand, and you can use pretty much any piece you like. All you have to worry about is making the marinade, and perhaps a side dish. If you’re tired of the usual beef or pork roast, try slow cooker chicken or turkey—it’s just as filling but a lot less fatty.

The amount of liquid you use can greatly affect how your roast will turn out. It’s important to follow the recipe to the letter—too much liquid and your meat will get soggy; too little and the flesh will get dry and rubbery. Also, remember that meats and vegetables retain their juices in the slow cooker, and you have to take that into account when measuring your liquid. Generally, the more "marbled" or distributed the fat is, the less water you need to add.

Using ground meat

Some authorities advise against slow-cooking ground meat as it tends to have more bacteria, and the low temperatures can cause them to multiply. However, it’s perfectly safe to use ground meat as long as you reach the safe cooking temperature as early as possible. For most slow cooker ground meat recipes, you can set the pot to High for the first two hours, then let it cook on low for the rest of the cooking time.

Again, browning the meat is optional, but it can help kill off bacteria in most ground meats. Another way around it is to start with larger chunks of meat—about one or two inches per piece—and let them cook until they’re tender enough to break down. Most meats soften easily in the slow cooker and can be broken down with a fork after two to three hours on the High setting.

Mixing with vegetables

Meat and vegetables naturally go well together, and it’s a nice way to add some extra flavor to your dish. Since the slow cooker brings out the taste of each ingredient, you don’t have to add too much of each, or even use any spices. Heavy vegetables and root crops work best in the slow cooker, especially for poultry recipes such as slow cooker turkey breast. Some of the most commonly used are carrots, turnips, and potatoes.

Meats cook faster than vegetables in the slow cooker, so make sure to layer them properly. Experts recommend putting the vegetables at the bottom and sides of the pot, then adding the meat on top. That way, the veggies get the most heat and all ingredients will cook at the same pace. If you’re using light or leafy vegetables, put them at the topmost layer so they stay relatively cook and don’t get soggy.

Tags: slow cooker ground meat recipes | slow cooker ground meat recipes | slow cooker turkey breast | slow cooker turkey breast | recipes for slow cookers | recipes for slow cookers | slow cooker beef recipes | slow cooker beef recipes | slow cooker chicken | slow cooker chicken

Grading Around Trees

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Where new grades are established, tree protection is the most neglected of all operations. Soil is piled over the roots of valuable trees. These die a lingering death by slow starvation and suffocation. A tree breathes through its leaves, branches, trunk and roots. Extra soil, added when grades are changed, cuts off the air from the roots. Some trees are more critical than others, for instance oaks, beech, birch, ginko, and several more. Evergreens are the most critical of all. Less than one foot of extra soil, especially if it is clay, will affect them.

When a grade is revised, the extent of protection depends upon the depth of the soil needed in grading, the age of the tree, and whether it is in good condition. A tree that is deteriorating should be removed. If the extra fill over the roots will not exceed twelve inches, sufficient protection may be given by a layer of stones of good size over the whole root area extending to the outer tips of the branches. Precise placement of outdoor fountains or other garden water features such as patio statuary may work as well.

Smaller stones, gravel and ashes are added, and then soil for a lawn or ground cover. Leave a clearance around the trunk of eighteen to thirty-six inches, the latter for a young tree, the former space for an old one. If the fill exceeds eighteen inches and the tree is valuable, you must go all the way to insure its preservation. When the depth of fill is known, remove the sod or other covering from the area over the roots. If the soil is heavy, loosen it slightly (don’t dig it) with a spading fork.

Lay four to six lines of four-inch agricultural tile, depending on the size of the tree, spaced equal distances apart to extend like the spokes of a wheel from the trunk to the outer point of the branches, or drip point. The lines have a fall of 1/8 inch to the foot. Another tile line encircles the drip line. Where these connect with the “spokes,” six-inch glazed tiles are set up vertically to reach the surface of the new grade or fill.

Lay pieces of tar paper over all joints. Where the vertical and other tile connects, they are covered with small stones, or garden statuary, outdoor fountains, or large waterfalls at some point. One more tile line is connected to one of the “spokes” at a point where excess water can drain away. The “spokes” start at eighteen to thirty-six inches from the trunk. The openings are covered with wire screening to prevent clogging. The tiled area is now filled with large stones to two-thirds the depth of the new soil fill.

In addition, a few inches of small stones are placed on top, then a layer of cinders or marsh hay and finally nine to twelve inches of soil. A dry well is then built around the trunk where the “spokes” begin. Stones, brick or concrete blocks are used, the top level with the new grade. The vertical tiles are also filled with stones and capped; these are used for supplying water and fertilizer to the tree. A tree well doubles its utility if you construct a circular seat atop the well.

to two-thirds the depth of the new soil fill.

In addition, a few inches of small stones are placed on top, then a layer of cinders or marsh hay and finally nine to twelve inches of soil. A dry well is then built around the trunk where the “spokes” begin. Stones, brick or concrete blocks are used, the top level with the new grade. The vertical tiles are also filled with stones and capped; these are used for supplying water and fertilizer to the tree. A tree well doubles its utility if you construct a circular seat atop the well.

will not exceed twelve inches, sufficient protection may be given by a layer of stones of good size over the whole root area extending to the outer tips of the branches. Precise placement of outdoor fountains or other garden water features such as patio statuary may work as well.

Smaller stones, gravel and ashes are added, and then soil for a lawn or ground cover. Leave a clearance around the trunk of eighteen to thirty-six inches, the latter for a young tree, the former space for an old one. If the fill exceeds eighteen inches and the tree is valuable, you must go all the way to insure its preservation. When the depth of fill is known, remove the sod or other covering from the area over the roots. If the soil is heavy, loosen it slightly (don’t dig it) with a spading fork.

Lay four to six lines of four-inch agricultural tile, depending on the size of the tree, spaced equal distances apart to extend like the spokes of a wheel from the trunk to the outer point of the branches, or drip point. The lines have a fall of 1/8 inch to the foot. Another tile line encircles the drip line. Where these connect with the “spokes,” six-inch glazed tiles are set up vertically to reach the surface of the new grade or fill.

Lay pieces of tar paper over all joints. Where the vertical and other tile connects, they are covered with small stones, or garden statuary, outdoor fountains, or large waterfalls at some point. One more tile line is connected to one of the “spokes” at a point where excess water can drain away. The “spokes” start at eighteen to thirty-six inches from the trunk. The openings are covered with wire screening to prevent clogging. The tiled area is now filled with large stones to two-thirds the depth of the new soil fill.

In addition, a few inches of small stones are placed on top, then a layer of cinders or marsh hay and finally nine to twelve inches of soil. A dry well is then built around the trunk where the “spokes” begin. Stones, brick or concrete blocks are used, the top level with the new grade. The vertical tiles are also filled with stones and capped; these are used for supplying water and fertilizer to the tree. A tree well doubles its utility if you construct a circular seat atop the well.

to two-thirds the depth of the new soil fill.

In addition, a few inches of small stones are placed on top, then a layer of cinders or marsh hay and finally nine to twelve inches of soil. A dry well is then built around the trunk where the “spokes” begin. Stones, brick or concrete blocks are used, the top level with the new grade. The vertical tiles are also filled with stones and capped; these are used for supplying water and fertilizer to the tree. A tree well doubles its utility if you construct a circular seat atop the well.

to the outer point of the branches, or drip point. The lines have a fall of 1/8 inch to the foot. Another tile line encircles the drip line. Where these connect with the “spokes,” six-inch glazed tiles are set up vertically to reach the surface of the new grade or fill.

Lay pieces of tar paper over all joints. Where the vertical and other tile connects, they are covered with small stones, or garden statuary, outdoor fountains, or large waterfalls at some point. One more tile line is connected to one of the “spokes” at a point where excess water can drain away. The “spokes” start at eighteen to thirty-six inches from the trunk. The openings are covered with wire screening to prevent clogging. The tiled area is now filled with large stones to two-thirds the depth of the new soil fill.

In addition, a few inches of small stones are placed on top, then a layer of cinders or marsh hay and finally nine to twelve inches of soil. A dry well is then built around the trunk where the “spokes” begin. Stones, brick or concrete blocks are used, the top level with the new grade. The vertical tiles are also filled with stones and capped; these are used for supplying water and fertilizer to the tree. A tree well doubles its utility if you construct a circular seat atop the well.

to two-thirds the depth of the new soil fill.

In addition, a few inches of small stones are placed on top, then a layer of cinders or marsh hay and finally nine to twelve inches of soil. A dry well is then built around the trunk where the “spokes” begin. Stones, brick or concrete blocks are used, the top level with the new grade. The vertical tiles are also filled with stones and capped; these are used for supplying water and fertilizer to the tree. A tree well doubles its utility if you construct a circular seat atop the well.

well doubles its utility if you construct a circular seat atop the well.

Tags: garden water features | garden water features | outdoor fountains | outdoor fountains | large wtaerfalls | large wtaerfalls | garden statuary | garden statuary | patio statuary | patio statuary | grading | grading | trees | soil | soil | sod | sod

Applications for Acid Dyes

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It is unlikely that the average person using dyes understands the chemical structure of dyes which are made from the rather simple hydrocarbons, such as benzene (C6H6), toluene (C7H8) xylene (C8H10), naphthalene (C10H8), and anthracene (C14H16). If, however, dyes are classed together on a basis of methods of application to various fibers, and of affinity for and reaction on the fibers themselves, it is easier to grasp the significance of such a grouping.

It is of interest to the wood finisher to examine a list of the application classes which are known to the textile dyer. It should be remembered, however, that some colors can be placed in two or more classes, and applied to wood corner blocks, wood frames, or frieze boards by more than one method. This may be due to the peculiar chemical composition of the dyes which can be classified in more than one group, or to certain chemical or physical properties of the fibers of the materials.

The application classification of dyes is as follows:

  • Acid dyes
  • Basic dyes
  • Salt, direct, or substantive dyes
  • Mordant dyes
  • Pigment dyes
  • Developing colors
  • Sulphur colors
  • Vat dyes

Acid Dyes

In general, acid dyes are very largely derived from azo compounds of toluene and benzene, both of which come from light-tar-oils. These dyes are said to be salts of color acids, which are easily soluble in water. Most of the acid dyes require the presence in the bath of some acid which liberates the color acid and thus allows it to combine with bases which are found in the fibers being dyed, usually animal fibers, such as silk and wool.

On these materials, acid dyes act as direct dyes, and need no mordant. Many acid dyes do not dye vegetable fibers; therefore they are not much used for dyeing cotton-goods. It should be pointed out very clearly, however, that, although pure cellulose does not usually take acid dyes, lignocellulose, such as is found in jute and wood for frieze boards or wood frames (for example), will combine directly with acid dyes. The azo acid group is a large one, and contains many yellows, oranges, scarlets, blacks, etc.

There is also a small class of yellow dyes, the most important member of which is Naphthol Yellow S, which is derived from nitro compounds. Individual acid dyes vary considerably in fastness to light. In general, the azo dyes are quite permanent, while acid violets and greens, usually, are more fugitive. Some acid dyes are not entirely satisfactory on textiles, because they will not stand washing, especially if soap is used.

On wood, however, these same dyes give no trouble, because the colors are fast to light, and are usually protected by varnish coats. The acid colors do not usually show an acid reaction in themselves, but are sold in powders of alkaline salts of potassium or ammonium which are soluble in water. The neutral or alkaline powders of acid dyes are acidified in the solution, usually with sulphuric acid, for dyeing wool
or silk.

The acid reacts on the dyestuff in such a way as to set the color acid free and to change the composition of the fibers to be dyed and leave them in the proper condition to receive the dye. Sometimes acetic or formic acid, or even ammonium acetate, is used as a substitute for sulphuric acid; in which case the dye is only slightly acid in reaction. There is also a third class of acid dyes which will dye some fibers in a neutral bath.

When acid dyes are used as wood stains for fireplace accessories or bar rail moulding, it is not usually necessary to add any acid whatever to the stain, because wood fibers generally react properly with such dyes and take the color easily. Main acid coal tar stains when used on wood “bite” more easily, however, if one-half pint of table vinegar be added to each gallon of stain. Acid dye powders are soluble in water. They usually dissolve better in hot water and are frequently prepared in this manner because they leave less residue.

A few acid dyes, such as Metanil Yellow, Orange II, Violamine RR, are somewhat soluble in alcohol. Acid dyes are usually quite cheap, compared with other coloring materials and the tones produced on most substances are pure and brilliant. In the latter respect, acid dyes are generally superior to both mordant and substantive dyes, but are not equal to basic dyes. wood stains for use on furniture are at present very largely made from acid coal tar dyes.   

fibers generally react properly with such dyes and take the color easily. Main acid coal tar stains when used on wood “bite” more easily, however, if one-half pint of table vinegar be added to each gallon of stain. Acid dye powders are soluble in water. They usually dissolve better in hot water and are frequently prepared in this manner because they leave less residue.

A few acid dyes, such as Metanil Yellow, Orange II, Violamine RR, are somewhat soluble in alcohol. Acid dyes are usually quite cheap, compared with other coloring materials and the tones produced on most substances are pure and brilliant. In the latter respect, acid dyes are generally superior to both mordant and substantive dyes, but are not equal to basic dyes. wood stains for use on furniture are at present very largely made from acid coal tar dyes.   

Tags: fireplace accessories | fireplace accessories | wood corner blocks | wood corner blocks | bar rail moulding | bar rail moulding | frieze boards | frieze boards | wood frames | wood frames | wood stains

Designing Your Garden: Tips and Advice

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Your garden should be a place of enjoyment and relaxation. Designing your garden can be a daunting task. However, if you follow the right steps, this process can be simplified. Here are a few things you should keep in mind to help make designing your garden easier.

Some gardeners run out and buy all the plants they like, only to find out that the height and size of the plants prevents them from being used together effectively. Measure your plot and make a map of it on paper. Draw in any existing features, such as trees, that are going to stay. Then you will have a good idea of how much space you have and how many plants you can accommodate.

You should also take lighting into consideration. Consider which direction your garden plot faces so you can determine how much sun it will receive and where the best places to set up benches and chairs are, if you choose to include them. Its a well known fact that some plants do better in shade while others require full sun to thrive, so be sure to take into account the amount of sunlight your plot will receive when choosing plants for your garden or landscaping ideas. You will want to avoid putting a patio or seating area somewhere where the sun will be strong during midday. You will also want to make sure each plant is located where they will get the optimal amount of light. If you are planning your garden for the first time and have never observed the area, you may want to take some time to watch how the light changes over the course of the day in the proposed garden location. Sometimes trees or other large objects will cast shadows across certain areas for substantial parts of the day. You should consider all these factors before planting.

Of course, you should also take your budget into consideration before designing your garden or landscaping. Get an idea of how much the plants that you want to include in your garden will cost and make sure your budget will allow for everything you want. There is nothing worse than designing a beautiful garden only to go to the nursery and find out you cannot afford all the plants you wanted. You should also take into account any walls, borders, and fences that will be a part of your garden and plan your budget accordingly. Make sure you measure and estimate distances correctly or you may end up spending more on these types of accessories than you originally planned.

Depending on what your garden design will include, you might have to plan for artificial lighting and man-made water attractions. You should take into consideration the effort it will take to bury cables and tubing as well as assemble these accessories. You may need to rent special tools to dig to the required depth and, of course, you will have to make sure these things fit into your budget.

Lastly, you should consider the climate in which you live before planning your garden. Experienced gardeners know exactly what types of plants will thrive in whatever climate they live in, but if you dont have as much experience or are new to a place, make sure you research the plants you like before including them in your landscaping or garden design. Likewise, if you live in a place that experiences long, dry spells like the southwest, you will have to use plants that can withstand long periods with little water. Make sure the plants you choose to use in your garden design will tolerate your climates conditions.

Creating you garden should be an enjoyable experience and you should be able to enjoy your garden long after you design it. Make sure you properly plan your gardens design to make the process as easy and pleasurable as possible.

plot faces so you can determine how much sun it will receive and where the best places to set up benches and chairs are, if you choose to include them. Its a well known fact that some plants do better in shade while others require full sun to thrive, so be sure to take into account the amount of sunlight your plot will receive when choosing plants for your garden or landscaping ideas. You will want to avoid putting a patio or seating area somewhere where the sun will be strong during midday. You will also want to make sure each plant is located where they will get the optimal amount of light. If you are planning your garden for the first time and have never observed the area, you may want to take some time to watch how the light changes over the course of the day in the proposed garden location. Sometimes trees or other large objects will cast shadows across certain areas for substantial parts of the day. You should consider all these factors before planting.

Of course, you should also take your budget into consideration before designing your garden or landscaping. Get an idea of how much the plants that you want to include in your garden will cost and make sure your budget will allow for everything you want. There is nothing worse than designing a beautiful garden only to go to the nursery and find out you cannot afford all the plants you wanted. You should also take into account any walls, borders, and fences that will be a part of your garden and plan your budget accordingly. Make sure you measure and estimate distances correctly or you may end up spending more on these types of accessories than you originally planned.

Depending on what your garden design will include, you might have to plan for artificial lighting and man-made water attractions. You should take into consideration the effort it will take to bury cables and tubing as well as assemble these accessories. You may need to rent special tools to dig to the required depth and, of course, you will have to make sure these things fit into your budget.

Lastly, you should consider the climate in which you live before planning your garden. Experienced gardeners know exactly what types of plants will thrive in whatever climate they live in, but if you dont have as much experience or are new to a place, make sure you research the plants you like before including them in your landscaping or garden design. Likewise, if you live in a place that experiences long, dry spells like the southwest, you will have to use plants that can withstand long periods with little water. Make sure the plants you choose to use in your garden design will tolerate your climates conditions.

Creating you garden should be an enjoyable experience and you should be able to enjoy your garden long after you design it. Make sure you properly plan your gardens design to make the process as easy and pleasurable as possible.

Tags: beginning a garden | beginning a garden | designing a garden | designing a garden | planning a garden | planning a garden | gardening advice | gardening advice | garden planning | garden planning | gardening tips | gardening tips | garden design | landscaping | landscaping | garden plan | garden plan | landscape | landscape | gardening | gardening | landsc | landsc

Reasons Why an Organic Rust Remover is a Better Choice

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There are many factors involved in rust removal. Each plays a different role in the process. Nevertheless, all is equally needed for it to be completed. The effects each of them can bring can contribute to either the success or failure of the process.

 

One of those said factors is the rust removal product that you will use. Actually, it is one of those major factors that has a great influence to how the removal will turn out to be. It has direct contact with the rust itself and therefore is the element that is specifically responsible to its elimination.

 

Apart from getting rid of rust, rust remover also has other benefits. It can make the implementation of the process easier as it takes the effects of so much scrubbing to make metals rust free. And because of that, it follows that the process can be finished faster for the same reason that the rust removal product will take the work of scrubbing which may take a long time to be completed.

 

However, there is one thing that can hinder all the benefits that a rust remover can bring. That refers to their huge number as it makes the picking of one that is truly effective a little hard to manage. Specifically, it becomes confusing to determine which one can really yield positive effects.

 

Among others though, organic rust removers had been considered as a better choice. Compared to conventional products, they had been dubbed to produce more and better effects. But what could be those that make them different in a good way?

 

  • They are of organic or natural ingredients as the name of their classification implies – And that means that they are safer to use than other rust removal products. They are milder to human health and the environment thus they present less threats. However, that does not negatively affect their effectiveness as they can still do a very good job of removing rust.

 

  • They can cost less – True, commercial organic rust removers may cost more than chemical-based or conventional products. However, speaking in long term, they require less spending. That is of course, considering all the possible negative effects of chemicals from other products on health and the item itself that may cost additional financial expenses. Besides that, there are also cheaper green alternatives that you can use. They can mostly be found at home so you wouldn’t need to spend much to have them. Examples of those alternatives are vinegar, lemon juice and baking soda.

 

  • They are cost-effective – By being both safe and effective products, green rust removers can make you fulfill two functions in one spending. They can make you treat your rusted items while protecting your family’s health. Make it three functions as it can also help preserve the environment. With those benefits, surely you can make the most out of your money when using the friendlier rust removal products.

 

In rust removal, rust removers make the process complete. However, among all of them those that are of organic ingredients are better than the others. Indeed they are with all the benefits that they can produce making rust removal both safe and effective.

 

 

will take the work of scrubbing which may take a long time to be completed.

 

However, there is one thing that can hinder all the benefits that a rust remover can bring. That refers to their huge number as it makes the picking of one that is truly effective a little hard to manage. Specifically, it becomes confusing to determine which one can really yield positive effects.

 

Among others though, organic rust removers had been considered as a better choice. Compared to conventional products, they had been dubbed to produce more and better effects. But what could be those that make them different in a good way?

 

  • They are of organic or natural ingredients as the name of their classification implies – And that means that they are safer to use than other rust removal products. They are milder to human health and the environment thus they present less threats. However, that does not negatively affect their effectiveness as they can still do a very good job of removing rust.

 

  • They can cost less – True, commercial organic rust removers may cost more than chemical-based or conventional products. However, speaking in long term, they require less spending. That is of course, considering all the possible negative effects of chemicals from other products on health and the item itself that may cost additional financial expenses. Besides that, there are also cheaper green alternatives that you can use. They can mostly be found at home so you wouldn’t need to spend much to have them. Examples of those alternatives are vinegar, lemon juice and baking soda.

 

  • They are cost-effective – By being both safe and effective products, green rust removers can make you fulfill two functions in one spending. They can make you treat your rusted items while protecting your family’s health. Make it three functions as it can also help preserve the environment. With those benefits, surely you can make the most out of your money when using the friendlier rust removal products.

 

In rust removal, rust removers make the process complete. However, among all of them those that are of organic ingredients are better than the others. Indeed they are with all the benefits that they can produce making rust removal both safe and effective.

 

 

Tags: rust remover | rust removal | rust removal

Granite Cleaning Tips That Can Make Your Granite Countertops A Treasure

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Many people are so fond of granite stones.  Evidently, you can see loads of households having countertops, floors, tabletops and the like made of this precious stone.  Considering its many benefits and astounding features, it has become the best choice for so many people when it comes to adding beauty and value to their homes.  The best part is, you can actually make your granite pieces your treasure, provided you take care of it like it’s the last best thing in the world that you can ever have.

Your granite countertops should be kept clean and durable to make it last a lifetime.  Granite stones are naturally durable for a long period of time as long as you can maintain its good condition.  If you can keep your granite countertops flawlessly shiny, clean and durable for a lifetime, then you can consider it as your treasure.  And you can give your credit to the kind of granite cleaning methods you incorporate, granite cleaners used and with your daily handling routines over the surface.        

As a matter of fact, cleaning granite is not an easy task.  It requires dedication and perseverance.  Moreover, granite cleaning is not just about the application of cleaning products or granite cleaners and the like.  It is not mainly concerned with removing various cleaning dilemmas.  Granite cleaning, as much as possible, should ensure a germ-free surface or countertops without the fowl smell of the cleaning products used.  Furthermore, it should not inflict any harm to your health and the planet. 

Here are some of the simple yet effective granite cleaning tips that can surely lend you a hand towards keeping your granite countertops and other surfaces at its best condition:

1.  Clean spills as soon as you can by blotting to avoid spreading the stain or spill.  Don’t let any spill and stain sit too long on the surface of your countertop.  Paper towels or a clean cloth would always come in handy so see to it that you have them easily accessible through your countertops. 

2.  See to it that you have your granite countertops applied with appropriate and safe granite sealers.  It pays to have your countertops sealed as it can prevent further and deep stains, spills and the like to get absorbed.  Do your best to find the best and the safest granite cleaners and never settle for something that is off-the-shelf.  

3.  The application of granite polish can also help you beautify and lengthen the life of your granite pieces.  If you can, try to apply a certain granite polish after you have sealed it.  If sealing and polishing is not something that you can do or don’t have the time to do so, then ask someone who really knows how to do the job.  Don’t let somebody who has no idea on what to do or you will end up putting your stuffs at risk. 

4.  When in need of granite cleaners, don’t be contented with the use of generic cleaning products as most of them can actually do no good unto your countertops.  Going green is the best thing that you can do in terms of household cleaning since it encourages safer means through the use of eco-friendly cleaners.  Choose natural cleaning products or natural granite cleaners instead of those typically-produced in the market. 

Tags: natural cleaning products | natural cleaning products | natural granite cleaners | natural granite cleaners | cleaning products | cleaning granite | granite cleaning | granite cleaners | clean granite | clean granite

Disease Control and Accidental Death

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Diabetes, which is a fairly important cause of death past midlife, presented a paradox in that the development of insulin therapy saved the lives of many thousands of diabetics, while at the same time the death rate displayed an actual increase in the early 20th century since pre-insulin days. In explanation it must be remembered, first, that the very success of this therapy brought greater attention to diabetes, and undoubtedly brought to light many cases which previously would have escaped proper diagnosis; and second, insulin added to the length of life of the average diabetic, without curing him.

Deaths thus postponed tend to accumulate at the higher ages. An important fact, however, is that diabetics, thanks to insulin, can now generally lead normal lives. That many reap the advantage of modern treatment and lower life insurance rates is partially due to the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, which spread the knowledge of life insurance basics and about the drug far and wide for many years. It also made a number of important statistical researches in this field which clarified the natural history of diabetes. Appendicitis, a disease without a marked age incidence, declined sharply in the middle of the 20th century as well.

The mortality among policyholders at that time in history was the lowest in Metropolitan history. This improvement reflected not only important advances in diagnosis and surgery, but also productive efforts along public health lines by the company and other agencies. They disseminated information to the public to help them recognize the early signs of the disease, when prompt medical and surgical treatment is of most avail; and prevented many serious complications by warning against the use of laxatives in the presence of abdominal pain. The extensive use of the sulfa drugs during 1941-1943 in cases of appendicitis with peritonitis also played an important role in bringing the death rate down to its low level.

The record of achievement in disease control would be incomplete without mention of the virtual elimination of typhoid fever. In 1911 it was an important cause of death among Metropolitan policyholders, but following that time, mortality from this disease was negligible. While com­munity efforts, through the provision of pure water supplies and adequate sewage systems, were largely responsible for wiping out typhoid, the Metropolitan did yeoman service in organizing public sentiment in support of bond issues to pay for these sanitary improvements and in the promotion of other measures for the control of the disease.

Accidents have an importance for life insurance companies offering low life insurance rates and no exam term life insurance beyond their actual magnitude as causes of death. The Metropolitan, as well as most other companies, developed special benefits which provided for an additional payment equal to the face value of the policy in the event of death by accidental means. Industrial policies, with certain broad exceptions, granted this benefit without specific extra premiums to policyholders; ordinary policies made this available to the insured at a small extra cost. Claim payments on the double indemnity provision averaged about $4,500,000 a year in the 1940s in the Metropolitan.

Just as the physician and the public health worker were successful in their fight against disease, so were various agencies, including the Metropolitan, whom engaged in equally productive efforts to control accidents. The mortality rate from accidents in 1941 among the company’s industrial policyholders was about six tenths of what it was in 1911. While accidents generally constituted a very considerable item in the total death rate, they rose to first place in the list of causes at ages 5 to 14 among girls and 5 to 39 among boys and men.

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The Importance of Having the Right Soil for Your Lawn

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The most essential tool the gardener works with is the soil and earth on his land. The elements of different kinds of soil fluctuate greatly from region to region, and any information or advice a gardener takes in should definitely be in regards to local conditions and elements. To make this a little easier, typically soils can be split into three different categories; claylike, sandy, or silt. The idyllic soil is made up of a hearty combination of sand, silt, and clay. This concoction will be the ideal garden loam.

Clay soils have the highest capability for retaining water, and can be thought of like an indoor wall fountain or an outdoor wall water fountain being used as a garden water feature; while sandier soils have the slightest capability. The binding substance of all superior soils is an organic matter called “humus.” Humus increases the water-retaining competence of the soil, eagerly absorbs the sun’s rays, releases valuable compounds plants from the earth, and fertilizes and develops soil consistency. Humus is added to the soil via organic fertilizers.

Examples of organic fertilizers include manure or the result of a compost pile. Humus can be obtained directly, however the expenditure is generally excessive if it is a big area that requires handling. The soil is a living, breathing object—in even the smallest of areas, several million animal and plant organisms are conducting the tasks they were born to perform. The more bacterial activity present in the soil, the more abundant the soil will be. Strong fertility necessitates four fundamentals: bacterial life, sunlight, moisture (water), and sustenance (food).

Given the fact that sunlight will exist on its own, the remaining three elements can be introduced to the earth by appropriate treatment. Outdoor water features such as large fountains and garden waterfalls can provide an adequate amount of moisture in drier, more arid regions. Organic fertilizers supply the soil with all of the other three important elements if the expense can be afforded. There are a variety of techniques in which these resources can be added to the soil. Some of the most universal and easily used techniques are:

The Compost Pile

A compost pile is a blend of soil and organic materials such as manure, rubbish, and plant cuttings. It is arranged by primarily placing a coating of stationary matter (dried weeds, grass, or branches), and then placing a coating of soil, alternating ensuing layers of organic substance and soil to an elevation of approximately four feet.

The breadth of the mass should range from about four to six feet as well. The compost pile needs a lot of moisture, chiefly during the initial week or so of standing, and requires turning over at habitual intervals. When decomposition has progressed to a satisfactory point, the compost can then be spaded into the earth.

Mineral and Nonorganic Fertilizers

Organic fertilizer from a compost pile or from animal manure can be pooled with non-organic fertilizer to produce the ideal soil nourishment. Organic fertilizers are categorized according to their levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potash.

It is common to see a fertilizer designated as “2-6-2.” This indicates that the fertilizer is made up of 2 parts nitrogen, 6 parts phosphorus, and 2 parts potash. The figures designating what the inorganic fertilizers are made up of should always specify the proportions in the order listed above. These fertilizers are usually gentle enough to not affect any patio water features, patio statuary, or outdoor fountains that may be in the lawn or patio areas.

Cover Crops

Particular crops automatically add these inorganic essentials to the soil as they develop and will also supply important unprocessed manure. These cover crops are the simplest technique available to fertilize soil, although they can take some time, typically a season (three to four months), to generate their best result. Cover crops like alfalfa, soy-beans, and comparable crops insert nitrogen to the earth when planted and furthermore, when plowed beneath at the suitable time, provide even more nitrogen.

A superior cover crop of something like legumes, plowed beneath at the right stage, can add anywhere from 100 to 150 pounds of nitrogen to the earth per acre, or the same as 10 to 15 pounds of animal manure. Nitrogen and mineral substance in the cover crop are greatest just prior to maturity and should be plowed beneath at that point. Hairy vetch, as an example, is a beneficial cover crop for the simple home gardener because it is a winter annual and an ideal soil constructor. It can be sown as early as September and should ideally be plowed beneath in April or May.

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Building an Energy-Efficient Kitchen

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With the issues of global warming and climate change making headlines, "green" options have been making their way into modern kitchen designs. It’s not that surprising; after all, the kitchen holds more gadgets and sees more activity than any other part of the house. No wonder designers have called it a hot spot for energy saving—there’s just so much opportunity to cut down without sacrificing style and quality. You may not notice the difference every day, but they’ll add up and save you more money over time.

Of course, an energy-efficient kitchen takes more than a few replacements or flipping a few switches. For your kitchen to really make a difference, you need to plan every change so that it all works as a whole. Even the most eco-friendly gadgets can still be a waste when they don’t fit with the rest of your setup. It’s not as complicated as it sounds—you just need to know what to look for. Read on for some simple ways to turn your kitchen from an energy hog to a stylish, eco-friendly space.

Think small.

Ten years ago, we were told that it’s better to cook more food in larger ovens to save money. But these days, small kitchen appliances are getting all the nods. The idea is that when you’re cooking, you’re paying to heat up the entire appliance, so bigger ovens naturally cost more to run. When shopping for ovens, choose the smallest model available that will still get the work done. For stovetops, look for burners that fit the bottom of your pan, so that no heat gets wasted during cooking.

The way you use your appliances can also affect their energy efficiency. Remember, your goal is to get appliances to generate more heat in less time, and to maximize this heat as you cook. Before using, make sure the inside surfaces are clean—stains can deflect heat away from the food and add several minutes to your cooking time. Generally, the more reflective a surface is, the better it retains and directs the heat.

Don’t overuse heat.

If you’re not updated on your city’s gas regulations, now’s a good time to read up. These rules are meant as much for your convenience as for general safety. Most of them are designed to lower your energy consumption and prevent overuse of heating, from the hot water to your stovetop and slow cookers. For starters, try cutting down the preheating part of a recipe—most of them turn out just as well when you put your pan in ahead of time.

One of the least acknowledged sources of energy saving is residual heat—the leftover heat that keeps the pan hot after you turn off the stove. This heat is often enough to finish the cooking process, so you can turn off your cooker up to seven minutes ahead of time. When cooking in an oven, maximize residual heat by keeping it closed throughout the cooking time—even a little peek can drastically reduce the heat inside. Just keep the oven window clean so you can monitor your progress.

Choose the right dishes.

Your kitchen cookware can also play a big role in your energy consumption. Some materials retain heat better than others and actually speed up the cooking process. Ceramic and glass have much higher retention than metal; that is, they stay hot much longer and allow you to use less oven-generated heat. This makes them especially ideal for soups and stews, which usually need to be kept warm for hours.

Glass is also great for baking, even for delicate projects like pies and pastries. Baking with a glass pan allows you to cut down cooking time by up to 15 minutes, or to lower the temperature by around 25 degrees. Coated ceramic also works well, although it’s a bit less efficient in the microwave. The microwave tends to heat up only the ceramic itself, but not the food.

Try cooking outdoors.

An outdoor kitchen makes a lot more sense if you have a large family to cook for. Not only do you get more space for those big meals, you also keep the rest of the house cool in the summer (thus saving on air conditioning). At the very least, you’ll save on lighting—if it takes you an hour to cook and do the dishes, that’s about 365 hours a year! In the summer, you can even set up an outdoor dining area for a quick change.

Choosing the right appliances is essential when you’re cooking outdoors. Outdoor appliances need sturdy exteriors that can withstand harsh environments, from high heat to sub-zero temperatures. Stainless steel bodies usually work best. Many models also combine different functions, such as barbecues with side burners, which can save you money and cut down cooking time

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Creative Ways to Recycle

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In recent years there has been a lot of talk about recycling and conservation practices. People are encouraged to limit their use of natural resources in order to have as little impact on the environment as possible. Unfortunately for those of us living in America, it is a bit more difficult to adapt to this new way of life, as wastefulness is a big part of our culture. Even Americans have gotten better about this though.

We have much incentive to recycle, as we can get a pretty penny for turning in aluminum cans. A little bit of money is also turned over for plastic soda bottles as well, but not all plastic has a refund amount. However, just because the plastic has no monetary value for you, does not mean that there is no value at all. Perhaps you are feeling creative and your idle hands have become restless. This is where the potential to make your own metal wall art, laser cut gifts, or metal wall decor comes into play!

You don’t want to take nineteen bags full of empty plastic bottles all the way down to the recycling center if you aren’t getting paid for them, so what do you do? You create works of art that you can get money for! If money is not your primary concern when recycling, you can use aluminum as your medium. It is easy to work with because you don’t need any special tools to cut it, perhaps just a pair of gloves to protect your skin from sharp edges.

You don’t need to employ any special metal cutting processes; a pair of scissors will do. Laser cut metal is usually heavy sheet metal cutting. This type of art is also a great alternative for anybody who already is an artist, and is struggling to pay for expensive art supplies and materials. These materials consist of things you already own, or they are at least convenient and easy to come by. People may even pay you to take these items off their hands.

Most pieces of metal art (sculptures and metal wall décor) are recycled scrap metal. Home décor of this sort is very modern and goes well with that kind of home theme. Once you start this hobby, you might find that you actually have quite a knack for it. Maybe recycling was the muse you always needed to bring out your inner sculptor. Your new found pleasure will add a comfortable, aesthetic atmosphere to your home, and you can form a new appreciation for other people’s art.

As your skill grows, you will be able to move on to bigger and better things. Instead of using discarded plastic bottles and aluminum cans, you can purchase scrap metal and sheet steel. To cut steel metal art sculptures, a laser is needed. Your laser cut metal wall art will be the finest of all fine metal art. Maybe one day you will even see your own creations in a museum of modern art. You will be contributing something that the whole community can enjoy while helping out the environment.

 

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Outdoor Flooring: Style and Function

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One of the newest trends in home design is the open home, which blurs the lines between indoors and outdoors so that there’s no clear border. The trend comes from traditional Asian homes, which made up for their limited size by extending their living space to the yard. More and more designers are picking up the idea and creating new homes that not only have that open structure, but also have a light, breezy feel that softens the sleek surfaces of most contemporary homes.

The first thing you’ll have to consider in an outdoor space is flooring. While you can get flooring ideas from interior design, outdoor flooring presents a few unique challenges. Unlike indoor flooring, they are constantly exposed to heat, moisture, and dust, and they usually don’t have a sub-floor to even out the installation. And of course, there’s the aesthetic factor: since it’s part of your living space, it has to be as stylish as the rest of your home.

Fortunately, there are lots of choices in the flooring market that meet all these requirements. Modern manufacturing has allowed for cheaper materials that are much easier to install. Here are some of your options.

Concrete flooring

Most people associate concrete flooring with factories or sporting halls, but concrete is a lot more versatile than it seems. Many homeowners are now laying concrete paths to better plan out their outdoor spaces and give it a sense of structure. Imagine a large garden with a little gazebo or gathering spot. With a well-placed concrete path, you can highlight this area and make it the focal point of your yard or patio. Concrete laying is a lot easier than it seems and can usually be done over a weekend for an average-sized space.

Concrete paths turn out best with the proper preparatory work. Besides the direction of the path, pay attention to its height in relation to the ground. For example, if you’re building one next to a lawn, you’ll need to install the concrete at the same height. Not only does it look more trimmed from the curb, it also helps you cut the lawn edges faster. Concrete tends to be brittle, so make sure it’s thick enough to withstand foot traffic. Experts recommend a minimum of three inches for outdoor use.

Terrazzo tiles

Terrazzo flooring is fairly new in the market, but it’s fast gaining ground. The name is Italian for terrace, where the material is believed to be first used. terrazzo flooring consists of pieces of granite, marble, glass, and onyx embedded in a cement mixture. The material is then cured and polished to bring out the individual colors before being cut into tiles. The result is a flooring material that looks very colorful and delicate, but also surprisingly solid.

Because of its unique composition, no two terrazzo tiles are exactly alike. Industry experts has classified terrazzo as mosaic flooring, which means it can be used decoratively on floors, walls, and other surfaces that can support them. In your outdoor space, terrazzo tiles provide a nice splash of color and create a sense of elegance. Terrazzo tiles can be expensive, however, so it’s best to use it as an accent to more neutral materials such as plain stone.

Sandstone

Sandstone is so named because of its composition, which are mostly pieces of rock or mineral the size of sand grains. These bits are melded and pressed together to create solid tiles or planks. Because the color depends on the mineral content, you can find sandstone flooring in a variety of colors, from the usual brown and gray to more exotic shades like green, red, pink and yellow. It’s a great way to brighten up your outdoor décor and stay consistent with your indoor color scheme.

Durability is easily the main selling point of sandstone flooring. Although installation is more complicated—you’ll definitely need help from the pros—it lasts pretty much forever once it’s laid out. It also takes little to no maintenance; in fact, designers advise against frequent cleaning because it would damage the stone’s natural texture. Most sandstone floors require only the occasional sweeping and a quick wipe after rain or snow.

Slate

This material isn’t as popular as other stone varieties. But that doesn’t mean they’re any less good—they’re just more commonly used as a roofing material. This means they’re not just extremely durable, they’re also light enough to help you save on installation. Slate floors have a smooth, delicate look, but are also extremely solid. Slate can withstand heavy impact better than most stone types, and with proper care, they can remain smooth and crack-free for decades.

Another excellent feature of slate flooring is its natural bacteria resistance. Its unique composition allows it to ward of common bacteria and allergens, so you don’t have to worry about the kids playing in the yard. It’s also naturally smooth, so you may want to apply an anti-slip coat to prevent slips and falls.

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Metropolitan’s Vision of Employee Relations

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The early welfare measures for employees gave evidence of unusual vision at a time when such ideas were radical indeed. As early as 1893, Home Office Clerks were furnished with a suitable place in which to eat their lunches, and where hot tea and coffee were provided; and beginning in 1908 the Company began to serve complete, to all employees, wholesome lunches without charge.

Some idea of the job done by this largest single industrial cafeteria in America may be gleaned from the following:

·         more than 900 twelve inch pies were baked for one days lunch

·         six mammoth ovens each roasted 1,512 pounds of beef at one time

·         950,000 quarts of ice cream were served each year.

But there are no statistics to tell the story of relaxed and happy lunchtimes in 18 pleasant cafeterias, of palatable and nourishing food available to all employees at no cost to them.

Provision for annual medical examination of all Home Office employees was first made in 1914. These examinations and the service of the Medical Rest Rooms, of the Dental Clinic, of the Nursing Service, and of the Mount McGregor Sanatorium, had far reaching effects on the health and well being of the Staff.

As the volume of different types of life insurance and term life insurance business grew, the number of life insurance employees increased, there was created a need for a Personnel Division. In the early days Mr. Knapp, and later Mr. Gaston and Mr. Roberts, were responsible for the Home Office workers. They engaged new employees and dealt with the problems of the Staff. Later each Division more or less ran its own employment service, with the result that a Clerk in one Department might be earning less than one doing similar work in another.

Kindness and good will toward the workers there was in plenty. No one had thought through the situation and there was definite need for an organized method of translating this good will into a system of appoint­ment, training, compensation, and advancement. Accord­ingly, in 1919, the Company established its Personnel Division, with William F. Dobbins in charge. At his retirement in 1933 he was succeeded by William J. Harper. On Mr. Harper’s death in December 1942, Herbert L. Rhoades was elected Personnel Officer.

This Division devoted increasing care to the selection of better than average workers and to the placement of the right persons in the right jobs. The employment procedure included, besides a friendly preliminary interview, completion of a detailed application form, a clerical aptitude test, a thorough medical examination, and a check of all school and employment references. These individuals needed to be able to do more than be able to recite life insurance basics, answer the question “what is term life insurance?” and be able to sell life insurance policies—they needed to be all around solid, career-minded individuals.

Except for a small number of pro­fessional positions, the Company endeavored to fill its hundreds of diversified jobs by promotion from its own ranks. Therefore, the Personnel Division had to determine not only whether an applicant would make a good Messenger, Typist, or File Clerk, but it also had to select, by the most modern techniques, an employee fitted by native intelligence, education, and personality eventually to become a good Team Head, Section Head, or Division Manager.

From the very beginning, promo­tion on the basis of merit was a cardinal policy. Most of the present Officers came into the Company in beginners’ positions either in the Home Office or Field, and climbed long ladders of increasing responsibility. For all employees, ascent to better jobs was possible because they were constantly encouraged to climb to the next rung. Future Officers of the Metropolitan were undoubtedly to be found among the busy rows of record keepers or among the Agency forces.

In order to fix equal pay for equal work on providing life insurance rates, low cost life insurance, and all types of life insurance to clientele and to provide lines of advancement for each employee, the Personnel Division classified all positions according to the degree of skill required, starting with Grade 1 for routine Interoffice messenger work, and ascending to Grade 27 for certain Assistant Division Managers, and fixed a basic salary for each. The salaries of Home Office employees compared more than favorably with those paid by other organizations for similar work.

The Company’s welfare work for employees was in addition to salaries, not a substitute for them. Mr. Ecker saw the Home Office pay roll grow from a few thousand dollars when he entered the Company in 1883, to more than $500,000 a week today. The Company provided its clerical employees with vacations of from two to four weeks, depending upon length of service.

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The Metropolitan’s Period of Growth

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It was not only in office organization that the foundations were laid during this period. Seen from the perspective of the years, the spirit which was to characterize the future growth of the Company was already explicit. Mr. Knapp, the shrewd and thoroughly able executive, ran every detail of the business, signed every letter and every check, and knew the capacities of every employee.

Vice-President Hegeman, his kindly and understanding assist­ant, complemented him by stressing the human side of the Company and was responsible for the friendliness and loyalty which have always dominated the Staff. He early regarded Agents and Home Office workers as forming a common cause for their life insurance clients—offering the best life insurance possible with affordable life insurance rates to the people.

He rewarded their efforts and established with them far more than the usual ties of business association. Together, these two men put their stamp on a Company which, while admin­istered with efficiency, has never lost sight of the fact that its employees are human beings with a stake in the business.

So rapidly was the Company growing that the plans for the new Home Office on 23d Street, even during its construc­tion, were changed to an eleven story office building, termed by the contemporary Harpers Weekly as “A Mercantile Palace.” The Company moved in with 650 Clerks, 400 of them women, in the spring of 1893, and by the summer the Home Office was completed.

It was an imposing building, of white marble, richly and delicately carved and gracefully decorated. The main entrance led to the magnificent court and marble stair­way, where the designers had lavished their finest materials. Its height and bulk of marble alone would have made it impres­sive; and to this the architects added a double staircase and a bronze and onyx balustrade rising in sweeping curves to a colonnaded open loggia above.

The Board of Directors Room on the second floor was no less imposing. “Here,” said a con­temporary journal, was “a Rembrandt feeling, typical of conservativeness, which would invite calm deliberation on the part of its occupants.” All of this was in keeping with the spirit of the times and reflected the opulence of a prosperous organization.  And as it was a stock company the stockholders, of course, paid the bill.

The beauty and comfort of the new home were worthy of the fully functioning organization which had emerged from the uncertainties of the early life insurance years, to a leading place in the affordable life insurance world. When the life insurance company began a new administration with President Hegeman began in 1891, Haley Fiske, then Vice-President, undertook to reorganize the Ordinary Department.

His success in this branch brought in another rush of business and further expansion in the Home Office. By the end of 1894 the Company was doing business in 30 States and in Canada. It had in force 3,574,909 policies, to the amount of $441,375,367.

A contemporary report of the Insurance Superintendent of the State of New York cites some of the intricacies of the Industrial business of the Company, which “requires in its office management some four hundred different forms and blanks”, which was only an indication of the vast bookkeeping job.

In a business which only a few years before had seen little differentiation of function, a whole new structure for the Industrial and for the Ordinary Departments had to be built up, with separate bookkeeping facilities, with underwriting units to deal with the evaluation of medical and occupational risks, and with leaders to vitalize the growing Home Office and Field Forces.

In 1894 George B. Woodward joined what was slowly becoming the best life insurance company out of countless companies offering low cost life insurance as Secretary to direct this expanding term life insurance force. For more than a quarter of a century Mr. Woodward managed the Home Office with skill and judgment.

It was he also who devised the $5,000 Whole Life policy, which became a great factor in the growth of the Ordinary Department. Besides supervising the internal management, he was a vigorous force in building up the confidence of the Field Men in their ability to sell Ordinary insurance. The name of George B. Woodward has an honored place in the annals of the Home Office.

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Slow Cooker Winter Cooking

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Everyone has their winter habits—some people stay in bed, some go traveling, and others go out and play in the snow. But when it comes to keeping warm, nothing beats a nice hot meal with the family. Winter recipes are made to soothe tired muscles and chase the cold-weather blues away. Whether it’s a cup of hot cocoa or a thick, creamy soup, winter food never fails to cheer up even the most frazzled souls.

If you don’t have time for a sit-down meal, you can still enjoy winter food with slow cooker recipes. With a crock pot, all you need to do is put your ingredients in and leave it to cook the rest of the day. Most winter recipes can easily be adapted to slow cooking, so you won’t be giving up any flavor. In fact, because a crock pot enhances flavors, you can even improve your cooking. Here are some crock pot winter cooking ideas you can try.

Get creative with chicken soup

There’s a reason there’s a whole line of self-help books named after this dish. Chicken soup has a way of putting people at ease like few other foods can. Even a simple chicken soup can go a long way. You can eat it on its own, have it as a snack, or make it part of dinner. And because it goes with any meal, you can simply freeze leftovers and serve them the next day.

Most soup recipes for slow cookers can be mixed with chicken, so you can slow-cook your soup and customize it at the same time. You can add pretty much anything you feel like—rice, vegetables, herbs, or spices. Some recipes require you to brown the chicken before slow cooking, but this isn’t always necessary as chicken tends to cook fast.

Use heavy ingredients

Winter food has to be filling, but not necessarily fattening—especially since people are less active in the winter. The best way to do this is to use heavy but low-calorie ingredients such as root crops, beans, and lentils. You can use them in soups or stews or mix them with any meat of your choice. These foods fill you up quickly, so you can make smaller servings and still feel satisfied.

One of the easiest dishes to make is a slow cooker lentil soup recipe. Lentils cook faster than most beans, so slow cooking really brings out their texture and flavor. They also go well with many ingredients, so you can add whatever you feel like. Meat, onions, and root crops usually work best. If you don’t like meat, you can still get that meaty flavor by adding some smoke flavoring.

Spice it up

Sometimes, all you have to do is add an extra pinch of your favorite spice to make a dish winter-ready. Spices release heat in the body, keeping you warm and giving you an instant metabolism boost. Since people tend to be less active in the winter, this can help you get up and going when you’re feeling lethargic. Some of the best spices to use are pepper, garlic, onions, curry, and turmeric.

If you’re not sure how to introduce spices into your meals, take your cue from naturally strong cuisines such as Mexican. A slow cooker taco soup gives a generous dose of spices, which is evened out with lots of other ingredients. Note that spices tend to taste stronger when slow-cooked, so make sure not to go overboard. Most spices should be added near the end of the cooking time.

Discover new ingredients

Markets often close down in the winter, so you may have limited choice when it comes to ingredients. But don’t think of it as a setback—it’s a chance to explore and discover new tastes. Many ingredients are cheaper in the winter, so it’s a good time to stock up. And since you’re slow cooking, you can use cheaper cuts of meat and still get the same amount of flavor.

One thing you can experiment with is chowder. Rich and creamy, it’s the perfect way to wind down on those busy days. You can use seafood, poultry, beef, or just vegetables if you want to keep it light. A slow cooker Mexican chowder combines rich ingredients with strong flavors, so you get the best of both worlds.

Keeping it warm

People tend to feel hungry more often during the winter, so it’s common to snack throughout the day. When you get a craving in between meals, it’s always nice to have something hot waiting for you. With a crock pot, you can do just that—simply set it to keep warm once the cooking time is done. That way, you can simply help yourself whenever you’re hungry. If you want to use them for future meals, just freeze the leftovers and reheat them as needed.

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Check List of Supplies for Your Dog

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Before you rush off to buy your first puppy or even head to the supermarket for supplies for your new adult dog, hold up. You see, just as there is a basic shopping list of supplies that people need, there is one for dogs, too. So you might want to print out this list below to carry along; otherwise you may forget something important.

The following are the most popular necessities for dogs, although not necessarily in this order:

1) Food & Treats – The most preferred form of dog food is dry, for regular, daily feedings. However, mix in some canned every once in awhile to make sure of a well-rounded diet with plenty of the right nutrients, vitamins and minerals.

Now here’s the scoop on dry dog food. If you buy the cheap stuff, first of all dogs don’t always like it much. Second of all, it’s not always the best choice for nutritional value. And third, you’ll need to feed your dog about double what you would if you chose healthier, a little pricier dog food.

Now here’s the kicker: with the cheaper stuff, you are also going to have MORE doo-doo to scoop up in your backyard! Important points to consider when buying dog food, for sure.

And just as you would not want to live without snacks, either does your dog. Those little pet treats are gems for dogs, who’ll do all types of tricks for them. Just watch that you get known brands and quality foodstuffs for your furry friend.

2) Dog Shampoo / Flea & Trick Treatments / Heartworm Medication  – There are plenty of name brand pet shampoos and flea and tick products out on the market. Insect drops work better than collars, because collars are ineffective if they get wet (think: rain), and because dogs lose collars and tug on each others, if you have more than one pet. Heartworm medication is now recommended year round in some areas, so check with your vet; this is available by prescription only.   

3) Collar and Leash – All dogs need collars as places to clasp their leashes and for a collar clip to attach their license and rabies tags. The goal with this collar is a snug fit, but not too tight. Allow a couple fingers under it. And regardless of whether or not you have a fenced in backyard, you do need a leash for those trips to the vet’s office and other walking opportunities.

4) ID / Chip – An identification (ID) tag can be crafted fast and easy at some pet stores, so call around. Otherwise, call around and check online at places like Amazon.com for some where you enter the dog’s name and your contact info. These are great for times when Fido runs off. Check with your local pet store and vet about having a chip safely injected into your pet, too. These are great for times when Fido runs away and loses his collar. Also check in your area – with your vet and local pet stores – for companies that inject microchips into dogs. These are harmless and provide added protection in cases where collars are misplaced while animals are lost from home.

5) Bowls, Bedding & Toys – You can use sturdy household bowls or pick up stainless steel or glassware types so the dog has a clean eating area. Check out dog beds and large dog pillows to see what fits into your budget. And don’t forget that dogs just want to have fun like people, too, and pick up some toys for Fido every once in awhile. Make sure they are pet-approved (not full of tiny objects that they could swallow and hurt themselves.)

6) Crate / Kennel / Doghouse – If you need housing and / or travel supplies, make sure to check out dog carriers, especially airline approved dog carriers for faraway trips, and any doghouse or kennel / crate for indoor environments. You may also need an indoor dog gate to keep your dog from exploring places you’d rather keep him out of when you’re not at home.

Tags: dog equipment | dog equipment | dog supplies | dog supplies | dog carriers | dog carriers | dog houses | dog houses | dog beds | dog beds | pets | pets

Crock Pots for Potluck Dinners

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Hosting a party on a budget? Potluck dinners may be your best choice. Although it often gets a bad rap, it’s definitely the most practical way to get your friends together. Since everyone’s pitching in, there’s a bigger sense of involvement with your guests. You can also use the savings on other aspects of the party, such as the décor, centerpieces, and party giveaways.


The only problem, of course, is actually doing your share. When you’re busy making preparations, there’s hardly any time to cook even one dish. But who says a party dish has to take up your entire day, or even half of it? One thing you can do is make your dish in a crock pot. It can’t be much simpler—you just pop in your ingredients, turn it on, and leave it to cook while you attend to other details. By the time the gang arrives, your dish will be ready to serve! Here are some ideas to help you get started.


Soup


Crock pot beginners often start with simple soups and stews. This is because they’re really easy to make and customize. Even a complete novice can play around with crock pot soups and still come up with something decent. You can make a large batch to serve alongside the main dish, or a lighter soup to serve as an appetizer. It all depends on what the other guests are bringing.


Because crock pots work differently, you’ll have to adjust the recipe to suit the slow cooking process. Like most crock pot recipes, crock pot soup uses fewer spices since the steam makes all the flavors stronger. Add as much or as little water as you like, but note that there’s less water loss in a crock pot—make sure you don’t end up with a dry paste!


Pasta


Pasta may be an everyday food for many, but it’s still a hit for potluck parties. Since it’s so versatile, you can make an assortment of noodles and sauces and just let your guests make their own mix. Not only is it less work for you, it also brings more variety to the table. If you’re serving a big crowd with different tastes, it’s also a great way to make sure everyone’s needs are satisfied.


Slow cooking gives a richer, thicker sauce than the traditional stovetop, making it ideal for parties. If you don’t know how to cook pasta in the crock pot, don’t worry—it’s just about timing it right and making sure the pasta doesn’t overcook. Most pastas can be added towards the end of the cooking time, so they’ll cook at the same time as the sauce. Keep the temperature low to prevent overcooking.


Chili


Nothing brings warmth and comfort better than a pot of home-cooked chili, especially one that’s been cooking all day. Modern cooking techniques have stripped much of the old-school charm from this dish, but that doesn’t make them any less popular. With a slow cooker, you can make chili just the way your guests like it: warm, homey, and with just the right spices to make it party-ready.


Because everyone likes their chili a certain way, it’s probably one of the easiest dishes to convert from stovetop to the crock pot. However, keep in mind that spices taste a lot stronger in crock pot chili recipes, and it’s easy to go overboard. To be safe, put spices near the end of the cooking time, and add small amounts at a time so you can control the flavor.


Meatballs


Meatball recipes are great for parties where there are kids around.  You can add them to soup, stews, or pasta sauces, or simply serve them on their own. If you’re serving them alone, you can make a quick sauce or two so your guests have more options. Barbecue and chili sauce are more popular, but you can also experiment with other condiments if you’re feeling up to it.


A common problem with slow-cooking meatballs is that they tend to break apart before they’re done. To make sure you don’t end up with mushy meat, brown your meatballs a little before putting then in the crock pot. This will "close up" the meatballs and keep the juices in, sealing in the flavors. It only takes about five minutes and works with any slow cooker meatballs recipe.


Vegetable dishes


Maybe you’re on a budget, or watching your weight, or simply want to serve a healthier meal. Whatever your reason, vegetarian dishes are a great addition to any potluck party. There’s a smaller chance that someone will be allergic, and it offers a nice contrast against heavier meat dishes. If you want to bring some variety to your table, a slow-cooked vegetarian dish is the way to go.


When cooking vegetables in the crock pot, make sure to put the heaviest ones at the bottom. These include potatoes, beets, carrots, and other root crops. They cook slower than other ingredients, so they’ll need to go where it’s hottest. Add softer vegetables last so they don’t get overcooked.

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The French Renaissance

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As Gothic art had been a borrowed art in Italy and had never been able to develop into a complete maturity south of the Alps, so the art of the Renaissance drifted north from its native Rome and Florence and entered France as a foreign invader.

It took the French people over six hundred years to develop a national consciousness. From the time of Charlemagne (d. 814) to Joan of Arc (d. 1431) France, like all of the medieval countries, had been largely under ecclesiastical control. This period had been one of religious fervor and fabulous church and stone fireplace building activity.

Between the 12th and 14th Centuries, the zenith of Gothic art had been reached and the immortal piles constructed by the hands and hearts of the inhabitants of France remain to this day the glories of all people for all ages. In the beginning of the 15th century Joan of Arc, by what appeared to be supernatural means to a superstitious people, aroused and developed the national spirit and patriotism of the country, expelling the last of the English and ending the Hundred Years’ War.

She earned the gratitude of her country and by her action the people of France developed into a race and nation with a unity of purpose that eventually came to lead the world in genius and creative instinct. The years immediately following the victories of Joan were spent in administrative reforms, effecting territorial unity, consolidating gains and organizing for foreign conquest.

This period coincided with the decline of Gothic art, which through over elaboration was less representative of the vigor of the newly established nation. As early as 1450 several of the greatest artists were already under the influence of the art of Italy and leaning more towards the influences of tapestry window toppers and more modernized Italian accents.

The interest in classic forms received a great impetus after the conquest of Naples by Charles VIII (1495) followed by the defeat of the Milanese by Louis XII a few years later. Charles V11I brought back to France, not only works of art, but many artists and, under Louis XII a great immigration of Italian artists commenced, attracted by the immense sums offered by the French nobility. This movement culminated under Francis I who induced both Leonardo da Vinci in 1516 and Cellini in 1537 to work at the Court of France.

The true beginnings of the Renaissance arts in France are attributed to the reign of Francis I (1515-1547). Although the absolute power of the throne had considerably increased under Francis, he had been less successful in his military ventures. In 1525 he had been defeated by Charles V in Italy and was held prisoner in Pavia, from where he had written home to his mother, “All is lost save honor.” 

He had ample opportunity to observe the fruits of the great Cinquecento, and after his return, his greatest ambition was to make his reign notable for the glories of art rather than for military splendor. Francis was contemporaneous with Henry VIII of England as well as Charles V of Spain. National pride and personal jealousy in each of these countries aided the demand for novelty which could only be satisfied by drawing upon the arts of southern Europe.

The divisions of the development of the Renaissance in France are usually designated by the names of the reigning monarchs, although the dates are chiefly approximate, and much overlapping occurs. The style of Francis I was one with a Gothic body and Italian Renaissance clothing.

The general structural lines of buildings – both exterior and interior – were a continuation of the picturesque irregularity of the medieval period, covered with a surface decoration of carving, gable pediment, or paint of distinctly classic inspiration. Francis’ domestic interests lay primarily in the province of France known as Touraine, some 150 miles southeast of Paris.

He developed the social life of the nobility in this region and was the planner of many of the chateaux along the Loire River. He added a most impressive wing to Blois, built the chateau at Chambord, started Chenonceaux, built a portion of the great chateau at Fontainebleau and modernized the Louvre in Paris which had up to that time been a medieval fortress.

The interiors of the Francis I period, of which only fragments remain in their original condition, show that the main feature of the irregularly shaped rooms was the monumental stone fireplace, somewhat similar in general form to the great hooded chimney pieces of the Gothic period, but treated with small classic pilasters and cornices.

The molding decoration, carving or painted patterns, was small in detail and probably highly colored. Ceilings were usually enriched by painting the structural beams and girders in a profusion of stripes and ornamental pediment. Floors were as a rule in highly colored tile patterns of extreme beauty.

When woodwork was not used on the walls of the room, the wall surface was either painted or covered with decorated Cordova leather. In wall paneling the Gothic system was used, limiting the width of the panel to the natural width of the plank cut from the tree. The panels were  often  decorated  with  delicate  arabesque ornament.

Most of the furniture of this period that has come down to us is built in the stiff rectangular shapes of the earlier type, but the tracery and ecclesiastical decoration gives way to the adoption of the classic architectural motifs. In the immediate years following the death of Francis, the development of art showed the complete elimination of Gothic forms and the final triumph of the Italian spirit.

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Why Choose Far Infrared Saunas?

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When you are in the market for a sauna, the best advice is to look at the models of far infrared saunas that are available. Although infrared rays are one of the rays of sunlight that you should try to avoid, when it comes to heating a sauna in this manner, it is one the healthiest choices you can make for your body. This is because these rays penetrate deeper into the body releasing more harmful toxins than you can imagine and revitalize the cells of your body.

In a far infrared sauna, the heat can penetrate deep into the body enhancing the healing action you want to obtain from the experience. The deep heat activates the sweat glands making elimination of toxins and other harmful substances much easier.

Combined with water, infrared rays vibrate and it is this vibration of the rays inside the sauna that helps the gases trapped in the cells to break up and therefore be eliminated from the body. In a sauna with infrared heat, you do not have any of the harmful effects of sunlight, which is what makes it beneficial for your body.

The heat in far infrared saunas is invisible. You get all the benefits of steam therapy without the humidity and cloudiness associated with steam. Instead of heating the air around you causing you to sweat, the heat goes directly to your body, producing a gentle warming from the inside out. Unlike a traditional sauna, where you have to pour water on the stones and you cannot control the heat inside, you are able to control the temperature of the heat in an infrared sauna.

The ideal temperature inside infrared saunas is between 100°F and 140°F. At this level, your body will sweat much faster, but at the same time you will be comfortable and be able to stay inside the sauna for a longer period of time than you would in a traditional sauna.

This longer period, typically between 20 and 45 minutes in duration, gives you body the most therapeutic benefits. You can even repeat this experience twice a day if you have the time and you will not feel lethargic after you exit the sauna as you might when leaving a hot tub. Instead you will feel invigorated and have more energy to go about your daily tasks.

In a traditional sauna, the high level of humidity in the air often makes it hard for those inside to be able to breathe. You won’t have this problem in infrared saunas because the heat occurs in somewhat the same way as the heat from sunlight, even though it comes from infrared heaters installed inside the unit. You can sit inside the unit with the door and the vent in the roof open and still sweat because the air your body is warm.

However, if you do not have the heater set at the right temperature, you will not achieve the right effect from the sauna. The placement of the infrared heater inside the sauna is important. You should have the heater placed so that the heat will strike your back and this will direct the heat to the core and the front of your body.

If you are not sure about the health benefits of the therapy you receive from infrared saunas, you only have to search the topic online and read the details of medical studies that show how beneficial this heat can be, similar to steam shower units and specialty hot tubs.

It has been proven as an aid in weight loss because of the increase in metabolism, as a way of relieving the pain of arthritis and other medical conditions affecting the joints and muscles, helps the immune system to work as it should and helps improve problems of cellulite.

Tags: steam shower units | steam shower units | infrared saunas | hot tub | hot tub

What is Life Insurance and Why Do I Need It?

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The basic definition of life insurance is a written contract between you and the insurance company you choose. This contract will spell out the amount of money that the insurance company will pay to your beneficiary after your death.

As part of the policy and as a way of paying for this amount of money, you have to make monthly payments called premiums. You also have the option of making your premium payments in one lump sum once a year. When the company does pay out the insurance, your beneficiary will receive the payment as a lump sum.

There are different types of life insurance policies – term life, whole life and universal life.  Of these, term life insurance is the cheapest because it is temporary. You take out a policy for a certain length of time and make the premium payments for the duration of this term. If you are still alive at the end of the term, the policy expires and you have to take a new policy for a further term.

Whole life insurance has more benefits in that it does have a guaranteed pay out of a lump sum to the beneficiary and you can use this benefit while you are alive as security on a loan. The disadvantages of whole life insurance is that the premiums you decide upon when you take out the policy remain in force for the rest of your life while you still have the life insurance policy in place.

If you are looking for a flexible type of life insurance, then you should check out the features of universal life insurance. The potential exists that you can enjoy flexibility in your payments and that of a cash account. A portion of your premium amount goes into this cash account, with the rest going towards the death benefit of the policy. The insurance company pays interest on this cash account and the money in the account can be used to pay the administration fees for the life insurance.

All life insurance policies have stipulations regarding the types of illnesses causing death that are covered under the terms of the policy. In a standard policy, you are required to undergo a medical exam complete with blood tests and urine tests to prove that you are healthy. If you do have some pre-existing medical condition, you can still take have somewhat affordable life insurance.

Without medical exam policies are also possible, but the premiums are more costly because of the greater risk that the insurance companies assume. They have no way of knowing whether or not you do have a serious illness that could bring about your death during the term of the policy and therefore have to cover themselves for this occurrence in higher premiums.

In addition to term and whole life insurance, you can take out an insurance policy that will pay out only if you are killed in an accident. Accidental life insurance does not provide any coverage if you should pass away as a result of an illness, but the pay out of such a policy is usually a lot higher than standard policies.

Whatever type of low cost life insurance you choose to have you will have peace of mind in knowing that you are not leaving your family open to financial ruin. They will have a death benefit to cover the cost of your burial and perhaps your medical expenses, plus the money they need to keep the family home and cover the expenses that were covered through your income.

Most parents like to have enough life insurance so that they can provide their children with the money needed for a college education in the death benefit the insurance provider pays to the beneficiary.

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Make Your Dog and Yourself Happy by Making Memories

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Nothing makes people – and pets – happier than those feeling-good moments, those warm-fuzzies that remind us of our love and fun times together. So plan ahead and take action to make plenty of happy moments and hence memories with your beloved pets while there are still around to enjoy. Some ideas on how to make the most of your time together follow.

 

Digital Camera Fun

 

Borrow a camera, rent one from a local photo shop or find one in your budget range at Amazon, eBay or any local drug store where you can get the throw-away kinds for around $10 USD, less in sale bins. Then snap memorable shots you can use online in social networking sites to share with your friends, as email attachments to share with family and on your own websites for fun and branding.   

 

 

Set up neat fun shots like your dog lounging in his or her orthopedic dog bed in jimmies playing with a toy or chewing on a bone. Print them out at home or order copies form the camera shop and make a nice family photo album with them or place them in a scrap book. There are lots of scrap booking supplies out there, especially for pet owners: stickers, borders, page backgrounds, wrapping paper scraps, glitter, ribbons and more.

 

Take your dog on outings to make memorable events more special. Take along the dog carriers if you need to and other supplies: food, snacks, water bottle, and a pooper-scooper. Then add this event as a page in itself in your scrapbook or a special section in your photo album.

 

Cafe press for Calendars, T-shirts and Other Fun Items

 

You can use your photos for other things, too, like making customized calendars and t-shirts, coffee mugs and greeting cards and more. What you do is head to CafePress.com and set up a free shop for yourself. Simply register and follow their step-by-step instructions.

 

Then load some cool photos and you can order your own products with the photos imprinted on them. Get ball caps, mugs, calendars and more.

 

Have fun by setting up your own special shots like during the holidays. Have your dog atop pet stairs for example, placing the star on a small Christmas tree. Then use this image for your Christmas cards.

 

Pet Memorials

 

While it’s no secret that dogs don’t live near as long as humans, on the average, it’s also no secret that many mourn the loss or beloved pets deeply. What better way to remember them than with a memorial, either officially at a pet cemetery, or unofficially in your backyard. Get help and pricing info directly from cemeteries, for that option. For the at-home option, you can head to a local garden center and pick up a stone creation kit where you make your own impression – like a dog print plus your pet’s name and a memorable phrase – and allow the unit to dry and harden, then use it as a type of moment stone.

 

Plan a nice service for either option with a nice prayer sessions and recalling of fond memories. Then after the service, host a snack session where you review your photo album, scrapbook and online memorabilia with others.  Because nothing makes people – and pets – happier than those feeling-good moments, those warm-fuzzies that remind us of our love and fun times together. So plan ahead and take action to make plenty of happy moments and hence memories with your beloved pets while there are still around to enjoy.

Tags: orthopedic dog bed | orthopedic dog bed | pet memorials | pet memorials | dog calenders | dog calenders | dog carriers | dog carriers | dog stairs | dog stairs | dogs

Crock Pot Cooking Tips

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Cooking in a Crock Pot is one of the easiest, most fool proof methods of cooking there is!  Crock pot recipes are simple yet delicious.  Just about anything you can make on the stove or in the oven can be made in a crock pot.  Best part is you can walk away while it cooks so you don’t spend hours watching over your dish.  With a few simple tips, you can become a crock pot gourmet in no time!

What Is Different In Crock Pot Cooking?

Crock pots cook foods over relatively low temperatures for a long period of time.  Almost always the food is cooked with the lid on to hold in as much juice and moisture as possible.  Because of the way the food cooks, there are a couple things that make crock pot cooking different than preparing the dish on the stove or in the oven.  For one, not much of the liquids will evaporate away so you will have to add less water or other liquids and/or more thickener such as flour or corn starch. 

Because the food cooks slowly, you obviously can’t expect a fully cooked meal in minutes.  You can walk away from the dish while it cooks, which allows you to get other things accomplished as the crock pot does the cooking for you, but you can’t expect to be able to rush the cooking process along too terribly! 

How To Convert Recipes For The Crock Pot

As we’ve said before, most any food that can be prepared on the stove or in the oven can be translated to a dish made in the crock pot.  There are some crock pot recipe tips you should know before converting a traditionally cooked dish.  For one, items do not have to be pre-cooked.  It is just fine if you want to go ahead and brown or steam items before you add them, but you don’t have to.  Also, you always have to reduce the amount of liquid.  Start with using half the liquid.  You can always add more if you see it isn’t going to be enough or if it is too thin, just add a thickener like flour or corn starch. 

Because crock pots cook slowly, the taste of spices may be stronger, so reduce the amount of spices the recipe calls for.  You can even wait to add the spices during the last hour or so to make sure they don’t get too strong.  Milks and creamed dairy products tend to curdle during slow cooking, so it is usually best to wait and add them at the end of cooking.  If you plan to freeze or can part of your crock pot dish, leave the dairy products out entirely and add them when you heat to serve.

Breakfast, Lunch, And Dinner

Don’t be afraid of your crock pot cooking.  It is actually pretty difficult to mess it up.  Be creative and have fun experimenting with different techniques and flavors.  Try at least one crock pot meal right away to see how easy it really is.  You can make a dish for every meal using your crock pot, even snacks!  For breakfast, try cooking oatmeal in your crock pot.   If you purchase a timer, you can mix this up before you go to bed and have it hot and ready in the morning.  Just add a couple cups of water and a couple cups of milk to about a cup and a half of rolled oats.  Add raisins if you like.  You can also spice it up with a little cinnamon or brown sugar.  For lunch, try an easy savory soup.  You can cut up your favorite vegetables and throw them in the crock pot with some broth.  Turn it on high and about 4 hours later you will have delicious homemade soup.  You can even freeze this in individual servings to warm up quickly when you are too rushed to cook.

For dinner, it is easy to learn how to cook ham in the crock pot.  Purchase a small ham that will fit in your slow cooker, fill about 1/3 of the way full when water, place the ham inside, cover, and 8-9 hours later you have a fully cooked ham.  How simple is that?  To make the ham even more delicious, add brown sugar and pineapple juice instead of just water.  Fix some sides, slice the ham for sandwiches, or cube it up to add in a casserole or place on a tray with cut up vegetables and dip.

If you are a novice cook, crock pot cooking is a great place to start.  If you are a veteran cook who just doesn’t want to spend hours over the stove, then crock pot cooking is also a perfect choice for you.  Personally I think every home should have at least one crock pot!  It is one of the most useful and versatile appliances in the kitchen!  Using these few simple crock pot recipe tips, you will soon become a slow cooker gourmet.

Tags: how to convert recipes for the crock pot | how to convert recipes for the crock pot | cooking oatmeal in the crock pot | cooking oatmeal in the crock pot | how to cook ham in the crock pot | how to cook ham in the crock pot | crock pot recipe tips | crock pot recipes | crock pot recipes

Creative Ponds And Pond Building Ideas

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Water is of life’s essence. The human spirit finds itself soothed and refreshed by water, just as much as the body demands it for life itself. Every garden should make use of water as a feature, and every garden can. On this page we look at some general issues about garden ponds.

A garden pond is suitable for all climate zones. It may not be suitable for all situations, such as where young children play in the garden. You may want to contact some local landscaping contractors or companies for ideas on how they address certain problems like these.

You can buy a precast plastic pond in garden centres, and these can be placed in a hole prepared for them, or be placed above the ground and supported by walls built up around them. They may be a valid choice for some needs, but they do limit your choice to the sizes and designs on offer. So let’s build a pond.

In selecting a place for your pond, stay away from wherever your home’s utilities run. If you object to raking out leaves in the fall, avoid placing it beneath deciduous trees. Site your pond in a place in your garden or landscaping design that suits your purpose. Is the pond to be a focal point at the junction of two or more pathways? Or is it to blend in with your garden, and be a private refuge?

If you live in an area where pests such as mosquitoes breed in still water, you have a number of options. You can incorporate a fountain in the design, so that the water is moving, discouraging colonization by such insects. Or you can site the pond at a distance from the house, and deal with unwanted larvae in the course of time by putting fish in your pond. They will appreciate the dietary supplement insect larvae represent.

Your pond can be quite small. Two feet by three feet is perfectly adequate, though adding a foot either way gives you extra options. Your pond can be raised above the surface of the ground you do not have to dig a hole, although having an in-ground pond also gives you more options. On the other hand, a raised pond can be placed on a concrete surface, and is relatively movable.

To create the sides of an in-ground pond you need a spade. The sides should slope, not drop at a right-angle to the surrounding landscaping. A depth of two feet is sufficient for most purposes you may need less if you do not intend to stock fish. Aim to have a depth of eighteen inches below the freezing level if you live in a climate with winter ice.

The sides of an above-ground pond can be made from rock, stone, brick, concrete block, wood or anything else that provides the rigidity required to support a liner. The outer wall can be at right angles to the surrounding ground, or can be sloped to form an embankment for plantings. The inner wall should be sloped, although if the depth of the pond is eighteen inches or less that is not a critical factor.

An in-ground pond creates an opportunity for a ‘marginal zone’. This is an important concept in and permaculture landscaping ideas, where it is recognized that the area between two dominant ‘cultures’, such as earth and water, or grassland and forest, is a highly productive zone. If you are making an in-ground pond, maximize the marginal zone by making it irregular, not a perfect oval or circle or rectangle. You can create further marginal zones by including an island in your pond. It is not so easy to make the perimeter of an above-ground pond irregular, but you can certainly incorporate an island.

Once you have dug your hole, or built the walls to contain your pond, you need to make it waterproof. This can be done with mortar and a waterproofing agent; or many garden supply shops sell pool liners. But it is quicker and easier simply to use a sheet of polythene. The edges of the sheet can be hidden beneath the top layer of the walls for an above-ground pond, or buried beneath the soil for an in-ground pond. Take care, whether using a commercial pool liner or a sheet of polythene, that you do not puncture it! Remove any sharp stones, sticks or tree roots from the hole before beginning to lay the liner.

When filling the pond, be conscious of the source of your water. Some town supply water is heavily chlorinated, or treated with other chemicals, and may not be a suitable environment for fish or plant life. In this case you may need to explore filtration options, or capturing and channelling rain water to fill your pond.

Tags: landscape design | landscape design | pond building | pond building | garden design | garden design | landscaping | landscaping | waterfalls | waterfalls | Ponds | Ponds

Culturing Window Plants

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The plants should be grown in light loam, or sandy peat and loam, say three parts loam, two parts leaf mould, one part sandy peat; fill the pots one third full of potsherds, to secure drainage, which is indispensable; if the roots of the plant become sodden, particularly during the season of rest, the health of the plant is gone, and years of care may fail to restore its beauty, or remedy the evil caused by a little carelessness in watering or a garden fountain.

When in a growing state, you can hardly give too much water, and much good may be derived from frequent sprinklings or syringing; this operation, however, must never be performed in sunny weather. One chief care in the culture of camellias is to keep them perfectly clean; dust upon the foliage not only injures the beauty of the plant, but affects its health. 

The plants are injured by too much heat; some hold that no artificial heat should be afforded, unless necessary to keep off the frost; but as we wish our camellias to bloom at a season when there is but little else to ornament the house other than patio statues, it is advisable to force them moderately.

A safe rule is, never to allow the temperature to fall below forty degrees at night, or rise above sixty-five or seventy degrees during the day. The plants will thus expand the flowers more slowly and naturally, and there will be no complaint of dropping buds, imperfect flowers, and yellow, sickly foliage.

One prime mistake in floriculture is the little attention paid to uniformity of temperature ; a plant can no more preserve a healthy state when exposed to an atmosphere varying from thirty to one hundred degrees in a few hours, now dry and now surcharged with moisture, than can an animal.

The progress of disease may be more gradual, but it is sure to show itself, and, sooner or later, the death of the plant is the result. The plants, when in bloom, should be shaded, as thus the flowers remain in perfection much longer. Give the plants plenty of air at all times, but during the season of growth protect them from chilling draughts, which would cause the young leaves to curl and stunt the plant, making any patio water features look unsightly.   

During  the summer, the plants should be placed in a shady, airy situation, out of doors; allow room enough between the plants for free circulation of air; the practice of setting the plants in a mass, under trees, is most objectionable; in the first place, the drip from the branches overhead is injurious, and again, the pots become filled with earthworms, which are often difficult to dislodge.

Another mistake in the culture of camellias is too frequently re-potting; while the plant should not be allowed to become pot-bound, too much room should not be afforded; a vigorous plant will not require re-potting oftener than every three years; on this point there is, however, some difference of opinion.

It is a popular error that the wood of a camellia should not be cut; on the contrary, there is scarcely a hard-wooded plant that bears the knife better; the plant is by nature symmetrical in growth, and, by judicious pruning, perfect specimens may easily be obtained.

Pruning should be done after blooming, just as the plants begin their growth. Not more than one flower bud should be allowed on each terminal shoot, if size and perfection of flower are required; remove all others before the buds begin to swell; if delayed longer, little advantage is gained.

The florists’ varieties of the camellia are too numerous to mention; the principal colors are red, white, and rose, with all the intermediate shades. The Chinese profess to possess a yellow variety, but we believe it has never been imported; we have seen a variety named “yellow,” the flowers being semi-double, and of a dirty white color.

In buying plants, select those of shrubby form, dark green foliage, without any places where leaves have been dropped; look well to see that the plant is free from scale, red spider, or mealy bug; if possible, examine the roots, to ascertain if they are in a healthy state.

Could we have but one camellia, we would choose Double White or Candidissima, for white; for blush, Lady Hume’s blush; for crimson, Sarah Frost. All these are peculiarly adapted for the window

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Table Setting for Everyday

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When you think of setting the table, you probably imagine formal events, stylish centerpieces, and getting out your best china. But proper table setting isn’t just for parties or special occasions. These days, dinner isn’t just about making good foodit’s also about setting the right mood for people to enjoy your meal. If your meals have been lacking interest lately, taking a few minutes to set the table may just turn things around.

 

Everyday table setting doesn’t have to be rich or elaborate. You don’t even have to use your best dinnerware or linens. The key is to make your table visually appealing and functional at the same time using whatever you have around. Here’s a quick guide to setting an everyday dinner table without taking up too much of your time.

 

Function over form

 

All table settings, whether formal or casual, are designed to make eating more comfortable. Much of it is really just common senseyou just place each utensil where it’s easiest to access. Try sitting at the table and picturing a typical meal: what would you reach for first? What would you want out of the way? Since everyday table setting doesn’t involve many pieces, it shouldn’t take too long to find an arrangement that works on a day-to-day basis.

 

The basics

 

A basic table setting should include a dinner plate, flatware (spoons, forks, and knives), glasses or goblets, and table linens. Depending on your menu, you can also add salad forks, soup spoons, wine glasses, and butter knives. The rule is that everything on the table should have a purpose, except for decorative pieces such as the centerpiece. Arrange them creatively but practicallylook online or in magazines for appropriate table setting ideas.

 

The most common flatware arrangement is the vertical style. In this style, you place all your forks for grasping on the left, and your spoons and knives on the right. Arrange them in the order that they will be used, from the outermost going in. For example, your soup spoon may be placed on the far right and your dessert spoon on the innermost right, and your regular spoon and fork somewhere in the middle.

 

Table linens

 

A typical table has a large tablecloth, napkins, and a placemat. If you have a glass or hollow wood table, you may want to include a silencera thick piece of cloth between the table and the tablecloth. This reduces the noise from the utensils, absorbs, some of the spills, and protects the table from scratches.

 

Tablecloths: Everyone should have a few basic tableclothsplain linens in white, black, and other neutral shades. This way, you can simply dress them up whenever you have to, and leave them on the rest of the time. You can also invest in seasonal patterns such as Christmas tablecloths and Halloween placemats.

 

Napkins: Table napkins are great for bringing some creativity to your table. Find some napkin folding guides and look for an easy one you can use every day. You can look into fancier designs for special occasions. Use cloth napkins for adult and formal events, and paper ones for younger guests and more casual parties.

 

Placemats: Plastic or synthetic placemats that can be wiped clean are ideal for everyday table setting. Again, look for designs that will last you all year, and simply replace them with seasonal versions whenever necessary. If you want something more decorative, and are willing to do extra maintenance, go for natural fibers such as cotton and hemp. Metallic placemats are also in fashion and work well for classical or traditional room styles.

 

Chargers: Chargers are fairly new to the table setup, and are mostly decorative in nature. Their main purpose is to add height and depth to your arrangement by providing an extra layer of color and/or texture between the tablecloth and the plate. Table chargers come in a wide range of styles, but the most common are wood, bamboo, glass, crystal, stone, and earthenware.

 

Seasonal changes

 

If you like to change things once in a while, try making your table setting seasonal. The change can be as simple as color or pattern, or a total overhaul complete with a new set of dinnerware. It can also be as seldom or frequent as you likeweekly, monthly or quarterly, whatever your schedule allows. You can use a forest green theme during Christmas season, red and yellow in the fall, and a bright pastel palette during the summer.

 

Consider investing in a few seasonal sets. Buy them off-season to save money and get some matching utensils to match. Go for classic designs that don’t go out of fashionflashy sets get dated pretty fast and will only be in style for a couple of years. This makes decorating your dinner table a lot easier, and allows you to change it up whenever you like.

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How to Bring Decorating Trends into Your Home

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Mixing your personal decorating style with some of the most fashionable interior decorating trends can be a bit of a minefield. Most people want to be up-to-date but don’t have thousands of dollars to continually update the home. Plus, constantly bringing in new trends without balancing it with your personal style can be not just expensive, but exhausting and stressful. It is generally agreed upon that the central theme and style of your home should entirely reflect you. Your home should function as your sanctuary, so the large pieces of furniture should all speak to your sense of fashion. The fun thing about décor trends is that you can pull these into your space in the accessories.

Let us say that you love a kitchen reminiscent of the ’50s. Bright colors, vinyl chair covers, polished silver and black-and-white tiles adorn your kitchen. This season, anything plastic-like is considered "out" as are tiled floors. But the so-called fern bar look is in, which means that Americana décor, particularly pop culture memorabilia can be added to participate in this trend. A few chrome or stainless steel appliances will also help bring this look into your kitchen without disturbing the current feel. Some matte black or silver kitchen drawer pulls can update your cabinets without a hefty investment or permanent style choice.

The living room and bedrooms are common places in quickly incorporate the current trends. While chocolate brown and dark wood furnishings were popular a few seasons ago, the new inclination is more towards neutrals like charcoal and cream as well as their deeper-toned cousins such as sage and cobalt. If your furniture is all dark wood, then mixing in some sage pillows on your chocolate brown leather couch is an easy fix. One big no-no is to have furnishings that match. The eclectic look, which is a big thing right now, can be achieved by mixing styles and eras. Bring in those extra dining room chairs into the living room. They don’t have to match, they just have to coordinate. Another easy was to update your space is to clear away as much visual clutter as possible to bring in the penchant toward a Zen-like natural space and keep only the personal and unique home accents that bring you joy and comfort. Rustic home décor, for example, is easily altered to do this as a simple unglazed clay vase can enhance this décor choice and still stay with the current style.

The biggest change in recent trends has been the bathroom. Once upon a time, the bathroom was a very utilitarian place tucked away in the corner of the home. Not anymore! The modern bathroom shuns quirky shower curtains, overhead lighting and plain fiberglass tubs and showers. Instead, the modern bathroom is a spa away from the spa. Warm neutrals are also popular in this space. The most important change is in the little luxuries – plush cotton towels, dimmed lighting, massaging or rain-like showerheads all speak of a touch of opulence. Western bathroom décor  are particularly well suit for this change as muted earth tones and elements like stone, wood and other natural materials are hot ticket items yet stay true to the Western feel.

Bringing current trends into your home can be a fun way to keep your home feeling fresh and alive, but you don’t have to break the bank to do it. Some fun and unique home accents can dramatically alter the feel of the space without changing everything. The key, though, is to keep your space comfortable for you and your family, only integrating what speaks to you

Tags: western bathroom dcor | western bathroom dcor | kitchen drawer pulls | unique home accents | unique home accents | wall dcor for kids | wall dcor for kids | teak rocking chair | teak rocking chair | rustic home dcor | rustic home dcor | Americana dcor | Americana dcor

The Benefits of Crock Pot Cooking

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Until you have fully discovered the wonders of your slow cooker through repeated use, you will not be able to fully appreciate the benefits of slow cooking; however, it is always nice to be able to look to some of the benefits that you can expect to receive by giving crock pots a chance in your kitchen. Here are some of the top benefits of using a slow cooker in your home:



You can cook and still have a life- Let’s face it. You’re busy every day, whether you’re taking the kids to soccer practice or their friend’s houses, or you’re working a 9-5, or you’re volunteering at the local schools or shelters…whatever you do, you know that it gets you up at six o’clock in the morning and doesn’t let you stop until six o’clock at night. And by that time you’re too tired to even walk up the stairs so how in the world can anyone expect you to cook a meal??? Most of us face these same dilemmas every day of the week and end up eating microwave meals in front of the television or hoping on the fast food train every night of the week, even though we know we shouldn’t. A crock pot solves the problem. While you’re making breakfast you can dump in all of the ingredients for a soup or stew, set it to heat, cover the unit and go about your day. Then, when you get home, all you have to worry about is dishing it and maybe making a salad. No stress, no hassle, no fuss. And your meals won’t taste like they came out of the grocer’s freezer.



It’s for everyone, not just Mom- Contrary to what some people may believe, single women and men, and married men too, can all benefit from using a crock pot. The fact, that slow cooking is so simple anyone can do it. And if you’re single and don’t have anyone to cook for, it’s even better. You can stock up all of your favorite slow cooker recipies in a few hours, without lifting a finger. Then you can freeze and reheat whenever you feel like it!



It saves money and time- Everyone loves to save money and time and we’re all looking for ways to do it every day. Why not use a slow cooker? The saved time in the kitchen is obvious when you realize that with a slow cooker you can always just set it and forget it. The cost-savings benefits may be harder to recognize at first but as you utilize your crock pot more often you’ll realize how beneficial it can be to your financial situation as well. You can buy a slow cooker at a local store for around $25 or $30 or you could shop around the local thrift stores or find a friend with one gathering dust and cobwebs in the back of their cabinet. Slow cookers are made to last so a small investment up to $30 will easily be repaid in the free time you’ll gain. Also, by cooking with a crock pot you can control the price of the ingredients you put in it, unlike pre-made meals and fast food—this means you control the price and you get yet another benefit…



It’s healthier than eating out and sometimes, healthier than eating in- You control what goes into your slow cooker. Unlike eating out or eating pre-made frozen dinners and deli meals from the grocery store, you can choose fresh vegetables, fruits and meats that can be found cheap at every local grocery store as long as they’re in season. Don’t discount your health by forgetting about your slow cooker!



You have options- Some people think that slow cookers are only for big meals and only for certain types of meals. What most people don’t understand is that you can use a slow cooker to make anything you want and that it’s easy to find recipes for just about anything you want. Do an internet search for crock pot beef recipes and you’ll come up with nearly 300,000 hits! Beef is one of the most versatile slow cooker options around and you can make anything from enchiladas to burritos to meat balls to steaks and roasts and meat loafs and nearly anything else you can dream up. How can you go wrong?



It doesn’t heat up the kitchen- In the middle of the summer when you want to make a heated dessert you may be tempted to go another route when you realize how hot the kitchen is getting, how long it’s going to take and how hard it’s going to be. But a slow cooker can solve your problem. There are hundreds of easy crock pot dessert recipes that you can use to spice up the evening in the summer or in the winter. You decide. You’ll get the pleasant smell of cobbler throughout your house without the heat and without the work. Now that’s getting your just desserts!



It’s safe- You’ve been craving crock pot pasta for weeks since you had it at your mother’s house and you have a crock pot sitting in your cabinet. You’ve read set it and forget it a million times when you’ve searched books, articles and recipes about slow cookers. But maybe you don’t believe it and you don’t feel comfortable going to work and leaving a slow cooker on all day in your home. But it’s time to get with the program. Crock pots are 100% safe to leave on in your home during the day. You can’t say that about your oven, your stove, your microwave, or nearly any other cooking apparatus you may have lined up in your kitchen cabinets. Pull out the crock pot, set it on the counter and make it a regular member of your kitchen lineup.



Throw in the ingredients and your mac and cheese will be ready for you when you get home. What can be better than that?

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Creativity With Garden Containers

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It’s simple for containers, even fantastic ones, to get lost in the shuffle at ground level. So then, how does one set the stage for a captivating container garden? Consider your potted plants to be members of an ensemble cast, and allow each one to excel with star quality.

Building diverse elevations shows both plant and planter at their greatest. Give the pots a slight boost while incorporating fun and style to your garden area. Often planter “feet” are all the height necessary. Choose between countless motifs; lion claws for classic, old world sophistication or straightforward leaves for an organic feeling. These easy accessories not only furnish your containers with a refined look, but they drastically progress drainage of the container, which is particularly vital if pots are going to remain outside in the winter months.

Bring the art of presenting your containers to the next echelon with pedestals. Pedestals capture the viewer’s eye and directs it to the area you really want to focus interest on. A solitary pedestal secures the scenery for an assemblage of containers while harmonizing pedestals can characterize an entryway.

No matter what part it plays, the pedestal selected should constantly remain in proportion to the mass and form of the pot. Taller containers look the best with a shorter, low pedestal, staying away from the top-heavy appearance. Urn shapes are the more customary option for a taller pedestal. Put fragile blossoms and aromatic flowers up to face level with a bigger pedestal. Mull over the hue and texture of a container, selecting a style that balances the other.

Help turn one of your garden accessories into a rising star. Vertical gardening works for planters as well. Train petite vines or interlace freely formed plants through a bamboo trellis or iron obelisk to fashion an extra aspect to your planter design.

As previously conveyed, proportion is everything. The shape and size of the sustaining configuration should synchronize with the volume of the planter. Experiment with blossoming vines such as patio clematis or mandevilla  or various garden statuary to produce an attractive and graceful masterpiece.    

A container isn’t required to have to house plants. While any container can be utilized to fashion a water garden, containers that are glazed on the inner portion are principally constructed for this purpose and supply the best water retention. More modern and less traditional shapes are the most stimulating options for the conception of a water garden. Crown with a solitary water lily and add a small number of oxygenating plants for effortless maintenance. 

If you want to incorporate a winter them to your containers, imagine a cast stone planter overflowing over with apples, pumpkins, or pine cones in autumn and possibly evergreen branches and berries in the winter. Packing peanuts and plastic milk or juice containers are great to adjust these items for volume. Out of the ordinary containers can be brought inside for double duty and packed with dried flowers, holiday evergreens or seasonal branches. Adorn a small urn with fruit or moss for a special holiday centerpiece. A miniature birdbath could even be brought inside as an ornamental aspect and can be filled with oranges, apples, lemons, greens, and fragrant candles.

Each and every garden needs a little whimsical magic to bring it to life. Countless containers are obtainable in exciting styles and shapes. Even salvaged items can be fixed and cleaned up and then creatively integrated into your home to construct container gardens. When it comes to indoor decorations and outdoor water features, just remember to use your imagination to the best of your ability and be inventive.

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How to Make Money with Pet Products on eBay

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It’s no secret that lots of people make money with ebay auctions and stores in all types of niches from automotives to zany things to everything in between. You can buy a slice of bread with the image of the Lord on it to haunted paintings to excellent used cars, handcrafted items form all over the world and much more. So why not sell your pet products there?

To help kick off your sales, here are some eBay ideas:

1) Sign up for eBay marketplace Research and see what sells and what doesn’t there first, before you take the plunge. Choose one of their options to fit your budget like a fast pass (2 days) for about $3, or go Basic or Pro for longer term, a little more money and a little more research features built into the programs. Then relax with your favorite healthy beverage, and type in pet keywords to see what people are buying there, what they are interested in.

2) After you spend time with #1, package your pet products accordingly. Look over past pet auctions and see what sold: what was the copywriting like, were there digital photos, a bonus, etc. Then package your product. Offer something better – free shipping (build the amount into your package somehow), offer a better bonus, offer two items: two dog beds, two dog feeders, two raised dog bowls…for two pets in a two-fer special …with photos of two dogs using your products!

3) Invite bidders online and off. Head to forums you frequent normally and invite members with pets to bid, invite everyone to at least take a look and spread the word by announcing your eBay auction links in your sig (signature) files. These are created in your forum member profile area, so seek help there form fellow members or the forum administrators for help, for forum rules and regs about what’s allowed here and what’s not. Note that when you bring bidders into eBay, you get a percentage of fees refunded when they win your auctions!

4) See help from eBay forums on how to improve your auctions and how to get more traffic. Also read articles on the web in directories like GoArticles.com and Ideamarketers.com for plenty of updated tips of the eBay trade!

5) Consider setting up shop at eBay, too. They host Basic, Premium and Anchor stores, each costing a little more and coming with different features and benefits. You can start out small and grow your dog bed business, too. With Premium stores you get eBay support 24/7 plus Marketing Research and top software packaged right in as well as other goodies for round-the-clock with your marketing and store operations. Hard to beat that!

6) Joint Ventures – Team up with other eBayers to cross-promote. There are instructions in eBay to do this, so seek help and find others who maybe knit pet sweaters, sell pet cookie cutters, homemade treats, etc.  For example, if you sell wrought iron dog feeders, consider teaming up with someone who makes ceramic dog bowls.

7) Teach! People come online because they want to make money, just like you do. So teach them. Teach them how to sell pet products with your own CD and / or print book or guide about how to do this. Have chapters on how to set up shop on eBay, how to have your own site as well, for security and as another avenue for selling. Have a chapter on how to set up an ecommerce site using Paypal buttons. Include sections on traffic generation with a huge list of marketing ideas for online as well as offline campaigns and promotions. Get help from the Small Business Administration as needed for more information and help.

 

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