Home Style & Decor
A well styled home need not be expensive..
CheapDeals101 - Latest Deals
- Radar Detector Car Dash and Windshield Mount for $17.95 Only $17.95 for Radar Detector Car Dash and Windshield Mount at Amazon.com within two-day free shipping with Free Trial of Amazon Prime. This radar detector car dash and windshield mount is made with combination of both heavy duty suction mount system & mounting plate. The suction of radar detector is rated to hold weight up to 20 pounds. You have to attach radar detector to your windshield and it will not coming down unless you want it to by pressing on the suction release. Angle of the mounting plate is adjustable to up and down position. It will come with heavy duty strip for attaching the device to the mounting plate. Dash plate has double sided tape so that suction can adhere to your dash. Special offer: Get Express Checkout with Amazon PayPhrase.
- Hitachi 18008 HardiBlade Saw Blade for $34 Discount Price: $34Original Price: $76.12Savings upto 55% + Free ShippingGet 55% discount on the purchase of Hitachi 18008 4-Tooth PCD Saw Blade from Amazon.com with free shipping. The Saw Blade is ideal for multi-plank cutting and is able to cut up to 5 planks. The Saw offers almost 1000 cuts per blade with its self-sharpening properties. The blade is made from 7-1/4-inch Polycrystalline diamond technology which gives absolute toughness and long cutting life. The HardiBlade Saw Blade features 0.087-inch Kerf, 0.063-inch plate and provides crosscutting & ripping for fiber cement board, trim and siding. Special Offer:Get Express Checkout with Amazon PayPhrase.
- UGG Sleeveless Women's Ruffle Dress for $32.2 Discount Price: $32.20Original Price: $115Savings upto 72%UGG Women's Ruffle Dress is available at lowest price of $32.2 at 6pm.com. The french linen dress is built of 100% cotton material with woven stitch detailing. This sleeveless dress features darling ruffles at the shoulders and bust. There is a keyhole closure on the upper back. It also has 29.5" inseam and can be machine washed with cold water & hanged to dry. Available in size:- M (Women's 8-10)- L (Women's 12-14)
- Kala KA-SC Concert Ukulele for $127 Discount Price: $127Original Price: $185Savings upto 31% + Free ShippingBuy Kala KA-SC Concert Ukulele for $127.00 from JR.com with free ground shipping. The Concert Ukulele features solid Sitka spruce top, Mahogany back & sides and provides rich warm sound. It is a blend of traditional white/black binding accent with high gloss finishing. The Ukulele includes Die cast Chrome tuners which helps you in keeping your instrument in tune for a long period of time. It consists of Maple neck, Rosewood fingerboard, Rosewood Bridge and Pearloid dot inlays. Special Offer:Get Express Checkout with Amazon PayPhrase.
- Electrolux EL500AZ Air Cleaner for $186.5 Discount Price: $186.50Original Price: $299.99Savings upto 38%Purchase Electrolux EL500AZ Air Cleaner from Amazon.com for $186.50 with $24.89 shipping charges. The Air Cleaner features HEPA Filtration, Odor Sensor and has noise reduction technology. It provides supply of carbon filters for 1 year and carries a remote control. Special Offer:Get Express Checkout with Amazon PayPhrase.
- Hearthware NuWave Pro Infrared Oven for $139.99 Discount Price: $139.99Original Price: $169.99Savings upto 18% + Free ShippingHearthware NuWave Pro Infrared Oven is available at lowest price of $139.99 at Amazon.com with free shipping. The infrared oven features highly durable polycarbonate dome and stainless steel liner pan with reversible stainless steel cooking rack. This lightweight oven offers infrared radiant heat to BBQ, roast, grill, bake, broil and dehydrate the food. It also provides convection to flow heat evenly around food for faster cooking & even browning and conduction to apply heat directly to the food. The oven cooks 50% faster than a conventional oven and saves up to 85% more energy by using 1500W rather than conventional oven 3500W. You can use the base of oven as a serving tray. There is a dome holder to keep the power head within reach when you prepare food. Most of the parts, except the power head, can be safely washed in dishwasher. This clear oven does not require oil & defrost to cook a 10 pounds frozen solid turkey in 2.5 hours and generate smoke. Special offer: Get Express Checkout with Amazon PayPhrase.
- Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band CD Box Set for $14.99 Discount Price: $14.99Original Price: $39.99Savings upto 63% + Free ShippingAt Buy.com, get CD Box Set of Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band with price of $14.99 and free shipping. This CD box includes 3 discs and its runtime is 215 minutes and 43 second. Release date of CD was 10/14/1997. CD includes all songs recorded live from October 18, 1975 to September 30, 1985. It comes with 64 page color booklet with inclusion of full lyrics and over 60 photos. CD box contains 40 songs with inclusion of "Fire", "War", "Because The Night" and "Seeds". CDs of set are digitally mixed and mastered.
- The Twilight Saga - New Moon DVD (2009) for $16.99 Discount Price: $16.99Original Price: $32.99Savings upto 48%The Twilight Saga - New Moon DVD is available at lowest price of $16.99 at Amazon.com and get two day free shipping with Free Trial of Amazon Prime. This DVD is in NTSC, color, widescreen, AC-3, subtitled, dolby and special edition format. It includes 2 discs and will be released on March 20, 2010 but you can order it. Aspect ratio of the 130 minutes DVD is 2.40:1. The romance between mortal Bella Swan and vampire Edward Cullen grows more and more when ancient secrets threaten to demolish them. As Edward leaves in an effort to stay Bella safe, she checks fate in increasingly careless ways to glance her love once more. Cast & Crew:- Kristen Stewart- Robert Pattinson- Chris Weitz - Director Special offer: Get Express Checkout with Amazon PayPhrase.
- Sony BRAVIA KDL-52EX700 52 inch LED HDTV for $1979.99 Discount Price: $1,979.99Original Price: $2,199.99Savings upto 10%At Tigerdirect.com you can get $220 discount on Sony BRAVIA LED HDTV. It has 52" screen with edge LED backlight, 16:9 aspect ratio and 1920 x 1080 resolution. You will get smooth motion detail and clarity with Motionflow 120Hz technology. The KDL-52EX700 HDTV has NTSC, ATSC and QAM tuner. Through BRAVIA Internet Video you can instantly stream video, movies, TV episodes and music from Slacker, Netflix & YouTube. Sony's Ambient Sensor automatically adjusts picture color based on room's light, so that you can enjoy natural looking picture at late night. It has presence sensor and energy saving switch. This Sony LED HDTV has two speakers that fill your room with affluent sound. The Sony KDL-52EX700 model has composite, component, USB, HDMI and Ethernet RJ45 connectivity. It provides PC input, RF input, digital audio out and analog audio interface. This BRAVIA LED HDTV covers 12 months parts and labor warranty. Get 30 days IRON CLAD guarantee on this LED HDTV.
- Bulova Men's Marine Star Collection Watch for $89 Discount Price: $89Original Price: $275Savings upto 68% + Free ShippingSave $186 on Men's Bulova Marine Star Collection Watch at Buy.com with free shipping. This sport styled watch has silver dial and mineral glass crystal. It supports quartz movement and water resistant capacity of watch is 100 meters. Watch has date display and deployment clasp. This battery operated watch provides analog display and its case diameter is 42. It is made of two-tone stainless steel material. Note: Coupon code will be added when you click the "Add to Cart" button and it is valid from 3/8/2010 to 3/31/2010.
Black and White Delight
- Chain Link Hook Rug in Black & White A graphic twist on chain link gives this Chain Link Hook Rug in Black & White a modern and edgy look. A definite statement maker in classic black and white! Hand hooked and full of texture, made of 100% Wool and Cotton. Available in two sizes. $125-$275. Buy here.
- Ronnie's Terramoto Ceramic 3-Piece Canister Set in Wide Pearl Black Stripes This Ronnie's Terramoto Ceramic 3-Piece Canister Set in Wide Pearl Black Stripes will complement most any kitchen. These canisters are made of ceramic earthenware and are dishwasher safe. Perfect for flour, sugar, cookies, candy and more. $39. Buy here.
- Black and White Polka Dot Shower Curtain This black and white Polka Dot Shower Curtain is made from durable 100% cotton. With a stylish design, this elegant shower curtain is the perfect decorative accent for your bathroom. Made in USA. 100% Cotton and no liner is needed. $46.99. Buy here.
- Floursack Towel and Dishcloth Set of 6 The Floursack Towel and Dishcloth Set of 6 are excellent all-purpose towels. The dishcloths are excellent for washing up dishes and pans, the floursack towels are lint free so are perfect for drying glasses and dusting. Machine washable, made from 100% cotton and made in India, the towels are 36-inch by 24-inch and the dishcloths are 13-inch by 13-inch. $16. Buy here.
- Dottie Mini Task Lamp Bring style to your study space. This Dottie Mini Task Lamp's streamlined design includes a flexible neck that lets you angle light right where you need it. $39. Buy here.
- Houndstooth Bath Rug This black and white Blonder Home Houndstooth Bath Rug will give your bathroom a classic theme. Other accessories from this collection are available. Bath Rug Size: 19.7" W x 31.5" L. Made of 100% nylon, foam backing. $39.99. Buy here.
- Waverly Home Madison Decorative Pillow in Black This attractive Waverly Home Madison Decorative Pillow in Black features a 100% down feather fill. 10 x 16". $24.99. Buy here.
- Artimino Black & White 2-Piece Serving Set A striking white scroll pattern beautifully accents this Artimino Black & White 2-Piece Serving Set that's crafted of black and white-enameled aluminum. Food safe; hand washing recommended. 12x2.5x1.25". $19. Buy here.
- Nobility "Beckly" Quilt Collection The fashionable decorator colors and scrolled medallion pattern of the Nobility "Beckly" Quilt Collection is sure to add a little contemporary flair to any bedroom. The standard shams, 18" and 20" square pillows all feature the same print as the top of the bed. The king and Euro shams showcase a positive version of the print. Create eye-catching interest with the 18" piped pillow with outline scrolled medallion embroidery on a white ground. Of machine-washable cotton. $25-$139. Buy here.
- Marimekko Silkkikuikka Black & White Shower Curtain This refreshing Marimekko Silkkikuikka Black & White Shower Curtain features the Silkkikuikka pattern that is comprised of various wavy black lines that are split into three sections. Designed by Maija Isola in 1961, the Silkkikuikka design is one of the oldest patterns in Marimekko's design arsenal and is now transposed onto a polyester shower curtain. Material: 100% Polyester. Measures: 79" H x 71" W (200 x 180 cm). Care: Machine washable. $55. Buy here.
Dish on Design
- A New Seating Area There’s an empty, as in unfurnished, room attached to our living room that has been driving me crazy. I’ve always envisioned a seating area in the center of the room for conversation, cocktails and games. When you are a designer by trade – you know exactly what your house COULD look like, but sometimes silly little things like [...]
- Are you a Hooker? I’m a hooker, she’s a hooker, don’t you wanna be a hooker too? Captain Hook watchout…A friend of mine has me hooked on hooks…big hooks, little hooks, square hooks, rounded hooks – if it’s a hook, chances are I want it. Check out these great uses of hooks at home. They are such a simple and inexpensive detail, but provide a [...]
- Add Glam to a Chandelier Where does the time go? I know I haven’t posted much in the last week, but I am busy as a bee in Florida on business and have been gathering lots of inspirational ideas to share with you-Yay! I’ll be posting ideas all next week, but here’s a sneak preview… I can’t wait to show you all the cool things I found! Do [...]
- The Case for a Flame Free Candle Purchasing a flameless candle was not on my list of things to buy until I recently saw them in person. I realized how nice it would be to have few of these in my home. These candles are safe and create an amazing ambiance as well. Reasons to want them… 1. Fire Safety. It’s a no-brainer: If you fall asleep and [...]
- Pssst…look what I got! The Good Karma Swap At the beginning of the year I set a goal to blog more often and get to know some of my fellow bloggers. I also started twittering diligently a few weeks back, which is when I saw a tweet by Kaileen of kaileenelise.com saying there was only a few hours left to sign up for her [...]
- The Cupcake Experiment For some time now I’ve been wanting to learn how to make pretty, fun and yummy cupcakes. One of my friends on twitter has the most beautiful cupcakes and even offers cupcake classes, but alas she is across the sea in england and I don’t have plans to be there anytime soon. Click to see Bea’s of [...]
- Preventing a Car Break-In My daughter Ashley had a string of bad luck. A string of really not so nice things have happened to her in the last few months to no fault of her own. As a mom, I want to fix it. Mostly, all I can do is offer hugs and hope; to explaining that things will get better and in general… humanity is good. I [...]
- What I’m (Really) Talking about on Twitter I always say I’m talking about design, life and anything else that crosses my mind…but what do I REALLY talk about? I found the coolest site that will pull all your tweets off of twitter and show the actual top ten words that you used over the last year. Apparently, I laugh alot…haha xoxox [...]
- Win a Decorating Assistant! Our friends over at Elle Decor and Point Home Click are giving away our favorite project organizer – the one and only Decorating Assistant! You have till the end of the month to register! Click here to Enter for one of 10 chances to win! You’ll love it even when you’re not decorating…I carry mine everywhere! It’s a great [...]
- Newly Organized Hall Closet Below is the mess that I met every time I went into the hall closet. It was so full of things we never used, that the doors were actually bulging out. Now that I’m in this organizing mode, I’m looking at the rest of my house wondering what I was thinking letting it get to [...]
Inspiring Home Decorating Ideas
- Unique Bud Vase Floral Arrangements Looking for a ideas to decorate a reception hall, or how to decorate a church for a wedding? Maybe you are looking for a nice centerpiece for a dining room or living room. Unique bud vase floral arrangements are a great solution for all of these decorating needs.When you are decorating a reception hall or a church for a wedding, you want something unique and beautiful. I found these unique and interesting bud vases at www.coniartglass.com that are handmade in Europe. They are extremely affordable, and make wonderful gifts too. They are versatile in that they can be used as a bud vases, oil lamps, or even as reed diffusers. Coni Art Glass will send you the hardware to use them as oil lamps if you wish, or reeds in case you wish to use them as reed diffusers, just let them know. For any purpose, they are a perfect solution for many decorating needs.These bud vases come in many colors, shapes and sizes, and are extremely affordable. Contact www.coniartglass.com to order today.
- Fragrance Lamps for Aromatherapy and More Aromatherapy is known to be good for reducing stress, preventing insomnia, and many other health benefits. In addition, it freshens the scent of a room, which is an added benefit. Fragrance lamps are one of the most decorative ways to use aromatherapy essential oils.One of the hottest and newest trends in aromatherapy and home fragrance today, fragrance lamps are not actually a new product. Also known as Lamp Berger, perfume lamps or effusion lamps, these scented oil lamps were first used in the mid 1800's. They use a catalytic combustion process to purify the air, destroying odors and killing bacteria while adding fragrance the air. Fragrance lamps quickly fill the air with your favorite scent of essential oil. They are quite beautiful, usually with a decorative collar or cap on top of a lovely glass base. These fragrance lamps are not only a nice decorative accent piece for use anywhere in the house, but eliminate odors and perfume the air. You can find these fragrance lamps in many sizes, shapes and colors at www.ConiArtGlass.com. Each lamp comes with complete step by step instructions for use, stone wick, vent cap, snuffer, funnel, and individual glossy gift box.
- Glass Hearts and Weddings! Incorporate wedding favors into your wedding or party decorations. I've said it before, you can use many different types of items to decorate the tables at your reception which may also double as favors. An item that I particularly like are glass heart ornaments. ConiArtGlass.com offers lovely glass hearts in many beautiful colors. Use them many ways. For example, attach your place cards to a glass heart and place it at your table setting. If you are not using place cards, attach a small note thanking your guest for attending your nuptials. It's a gift that your guests will treasure forever. These hearts are handmade, mouth blown glass ornaments produced in Eastern Europe. Every color is carefully selected to make the most beautiful, pleasing pieces. Cornel Plescan, the glass artist that produces these unique, collectible gifts, works with each customer to be certain that the colors are just perfect for your event.
- Tips to Protect Your Art Collection Any lover and collector of art will do his or her utmost to protect their art collection. Artwork is not only a major investment these days, it is also an essential part of the fabric of any home. It is rare to find a home with no prints, sketches or paintings on the wall, not to mention sculptures figurines or art glass adorning mantelpieces and sideboards. It is vital that collectors take proper care of their artwork to make sure that no piece is degraded in any way, shape or form.There are a number of ways that you can keep your artwork in perfect condition, but careful planning is required from the start. Put a strategy in place to protect your artwork before you even bring it home from the gallery or fair. Think about where you will place or hang the artwork to avoid any hazards that may turn into situations that leave the art damaged. For example, if a glass window does not protect the shelf on which a piece is to be placed, it may be wise to purchase a case in which to put it before it is actually placed on the shelf.The majority of measures that you should take concerning the placing of your artwork are common sense really. For example, you should not place any art in the kitchen or above a fireplace because the heat, steam and fumes can cause untold damage. You should also avoid smoking in the vicinity of your artwork because this is liable to cause irreversible staining. Similarly, placing art in direct sunlight can cause it to fade, and this would instantly be noticeable to the untrained eye as well as other collectors. If you have pets or young children then artwork should always be kept out of their reach so that no accidental damage occurs.The placement of artwork, as you can see above, can be extremely hazardous so it does require serious thought. It may be necessary to try a piece out in a few places during the first day that you own it so you can make an on the spot assessment of where its permanent home should be.When you do buy the art in question then you should always ask the attendant that oversees your transaction whether or not any special measures need to be taken in order to preserve its condition. Some galleries actually hand out care leaflets when a sale goes through, whilst others may have extremely knowledgeable staff that can give you hints and tips that they have picked up over the years. There are also various publications that you can purchase to give you a good grounding in the care of artwork. You should read at least one of these if you are an art collection beginner.The final thing that is essential in the preservation of you artwork is actually the cleaning regime that you have. It goes without saying that you should avoid using furniture polish and other similar oily substances in the vicinity of your artwork because that can cause irreparable harm. However, it is essential that a certain level of care be administered to regularly maintain it. For example, all sketches, paintings and prints should be framed wherever possible, and all sculptures and models should be encased in a protective cover. Although advice is usually specific to the nature of the piece and the materials present in its composition, it is fairly safe to pass a dry and clean cloth over all artwork from time to time to remove any dust build-ups. Dust can be just as harmful to art as any chemical, so it is essential that it is removed.The golden rule of caring for your artwork is to always ask for help whenever you are unsure. Always think carefully about what you are doing and do not take the art for granted. One moment of foolishness can work out to be extremely expensive!
- Set up a Home Office for Your Business For those people who have decided to start their own business, or who already work from home, what they need is a work space so they can work in peace, take care of their endeavors, and concentrate on taking care of the needs of their business. For many individuals, this means a home office.With the success of online businesses, more and more people have decided to work at home; which places the fate of their financial future in their own hands. Today, the internet has become an essential part of people's everyday lives: this new trend of working at home reflects the increasing use of the internet in the business world.It is important that a home office is treated with the same respect as a regular office since it is where work is done and transactions occur. Basically it is the place where individuals earn their money: whether on the internet, via phone, or video conference. It is possible you may have clients coming to your home office to conduct.It is essential that a person who wants to have a home based business set aside a space in their home that will provide them with comfort and privacy adequately conduct their business.Where to set up a home office.Ideally a separate room in the house is the best place for a home office. The best area is away from congestion noise: such as the children's bedroom or play area, the kitchen, or the entertainment room.How to furnish your officeA home office should be orderly and give the appearance of a professional workplace. It should be contain the equipment that you would find in an office: such as a phone with an answering machine that is capable of transferring calls, making conference calls, etc.A separate phone line for the home office is necessary so that personal calls meant for the family and business calls do not interfere with each other. Having a separate phone line in the office will also allow for concentration on business without any distractions.Other equipment you will need is: a computer that has an internet connection, fax machine, copier, organizers, and other office supplies. Things that a person will need in a home office will also depend on the type of business he/she is operating.Setting up a home office will probably mean acquiring furniture: this includes a desk, lamps, tables, and professional looking chairs. The most important piece of furniture needed will be a comfortable office chair –invest in a really good office chair that provides comfort as well as stability. Since a person working in a home office will spend numerous hours in his/her chair, it must be one that does not induce backache and/or make your body feel stiff. Before purchasing any of these items, you should know how you will conduct your home business so that only necessary items are purchased. This way you will not be spending money for things that you do not need or are not necessary.Choose your colors wisely Color scheme of a home office should not be distracting to the person(s) working in the office. This means that bright pastel colors, and gaudy colors like shocking pink and neon green would probably not be appropriate. If you have clients and/or hold business meetings in your home office, a professional atmosphere should be attained; so be wise when it comes to choosing your decorating colors. Neutral colors are best; since they are not distracting but consider using a few brighter and contrasting colors for accessories to add accents and interest. Setting up a home office is serious business. The right environment will be attractive and conducive to a good working atmosphere. Those who are thinking of setting up a home office should pay careful attention to detail when creating their office since they will be spending many hours working in it. Take the time to make your home office a comfortable and wonderful place!
- History of Murano Glass Murano, Italy has been the longest lasting center for glass making in history. It has been a popular location for the art since the 9th century. The craft has gone through a variety of changes and has some of the most creative and elegant artwork and the region has survived its successes and failures and despite everything it has found the ability to bounce back amid adversity.Murano is situated as a small island in the North West of Venice, Italy. The history of glassmaking in the region goes back to 800 AD in Rome, along with a mixture of influences from Asia and the religion of Islam. As Venice was a major port, trading of multicolored beads with African, Asian and Islamic neighbors became a mainstay of the region.According to historical records, Murano became a center for glassmaking after frequent fires in Venice forced authorities to move its factories to the Island of Murano in 1291. Consequently, the Murano style is often interwoven that of the Venetians.Murano held a monopoly on the craft for centuries and craftsmen on the island developed and improved several technologies like crystalline, aventurine which has threads of gold, lattimo - milk glass, smalto - containing enamel, millefiori - containing multicolors, and artificial gemstones. Even today, craftmen in the industry are said to follow these same techniques. However, now Murano has given way to a wide range of glass art including contemporary, jewelry, as well as chandeliers.The art of Murano glass is rather complex and normally uses a technique known as lampworking. Silica, which turns into liquid form at high temperatures, is used to make glass. While the glass cools from the liquid to a solid phase, the artisan is able to manipulate it to make it into a desired shape or form.Murano glass, over the centuries, has faced its moments of praise as well as decline. Nonetheless, region's glassmakers also strive toward quality and perfection. The glass art from the region is especially well known for its esthetics, which has set it apart from its competition. And no other region has been able to reproduce the esthetic superiority of Murano glassware. Throughout the history of glassmaking, the hollow blown glass technique from the region has made its stamp on the art of fine glassware. Clearly, the hallmark of Murano glass lies in its variations. A variety of glassware including multi-colored glazing and others that are light and transparent all represent the history of Murano glass art.Murano art glassware is also part of the European Glass collection at many galleries. This collection includes mouth-blown cranes and flamingos that are often large in size. The art of producing Murano glass vases has been popular for the craftsmanship that stems from the glass-blowing method. Murano glass art can include a variety of fish, birds and ducks. These small animal collections or figurines are made utilizing the glass blowing technique from Murano.
- Collectible Glassware from Romania Romanian Mouth-Blown Glassware Makes Its Way Into Mainstream ArtBy Cornel PlescanThe art of glass making holds a special relevance in Eastern Europe and particularly in Romania. What is quite extraordinary about Romanian glass manufacturing is that it combines traditional themes from Rome and Constantinople, lending vivacious color and ethnic design to the glasswork. Eastern Europe has lots of fine sand, which allows glassmaking to flourish in the region and Romania in particular is well known for its exquisite art glass pieces.Glass making in Eastern Europe and Romania emanates from the Murano style in Italy as most of the artisans studied glassmaking there. Up to the 13 century, European glassmaking was exclusive to Venice. But frequent fires prompted Venetian authorities to shift the furnaces to the island of Murano.There has been a long history of making glass in Romania. Romanian glassmakers have successfully passed on this art for several generations and the craft continues to thrive in this part of Eastern Europe. In Romania, it is said that artisan's only pass on the secrets of glass making to members of their family. More importantly, there is a rigid hierarchy in obtaining the coveted position as a glass blower. For example, a young man may take years before he can get to that stage within this strict hierarchy.Romanian glass is comparable to any great piece of Eastern European mouth blown glass. And they are nothing like the ones that are made by machinery or inexpensive duplicates. Traditionally Romanian factories and glass studios manufacture clear glass utilizing pellets that are distinct and commonly found in Western Europe. And depending on the artisan, German pigments are popularly used for coloring or painting glass. The combination of this blend makes Romanian crafted glass truly a superior product anywhere in Europe. Though Romanian glasswork is normally not made from crystal, nonetheless, it carries a similar purity and shine. Glass products in Romania are not just great looking, they are also being produced to suit a host of lifestyles, from the traditional to modern and the line of products are guaranteed quality glassware that is both functional and decorative.Romanian mouth-blown glassware is made by highly skilled artisans. They are very creative pieces with exceptional quality. They are also a prized collector's item. Some of the work includes vases and bowls that are made as centerpieces as well as plates - the artisans who create these masterpieces learned their skills in Murano itself.When it comes to Romanian glassware, each piece is distinctly unique. Each of the mouth-blown glassware may be described as an individual masterpiece in itself. They are exceptionally colorful, creative and elegant. Some of the works made by glass artisans in Romania are the most sought after pieces of contemporary art and have been on display in several galleries across the world. They are also prized as some of the top-notch pieces of glassware in the craft of modern blown glass art.The contemporary glassware is not just placed in galleries to be on display, they also make great gifts, particularly wedding gifts, and decorations especially in restaurants, businesses and hotels. They can also be used as decorations while designing your home.A Romanian glass artist and designer, Cornel Plescan now lives in the United States. For more information about him and his products go to: http://www.coniartglass.comArticle Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cornel_Plescanhttp://EzineArticles.com/?Romanian-Mouth-Blown-Glassware-Makes-Its-Way-Into-Mainstream-Art&id=1193127
- A Garden for the Entire Family A Garden for the Entire FamilyYou can have the most elaborated back yard from the entire neighborhood, but if it isn’t functional you have built it in vain. We all want to have beautiful and flourishing gardens, but when we have a family, we must also take into consideration the needs of the other members of it. Divide the space of your yard in two or three visual spaces, one for play and relaxation, one for gardening and maybe one for pets.An open space, covered by lawn is ideal for your children. Here you can install a table for open air lunches or for a romantic summer evening dinner.Do you have a fireplace? Keep a portion of your garden especially for depositing fire woods, but make sure it is at a considerable distance from the house or animals that can cause damage.How about pets? You can build for these little members of your family special spaces, in which they can play and exercise. Before you plant bushes and ornamental plants, surround the pet space. Cats and dogs tend to be attracted exactly by the things we try to keep them away from.Keep the by-passers’ eyes away from your personal life. Before planning the scenery, you must have in sight a place for the garbage cans. It wouldn’t be very nice to have a wonderful garden right next to the garbage cans. These can be efficiently hidden in some kind of surrounded space, decorated on the sides with life fence.Functionality is an important factor in your garden, so you have to think about children, little pets and family assets before you plant anything. Save a portion of the yard especially for you, in which you can plant whatever you want and leave for the others some space to breathe freely.You will find it more satisfying this way, once the whole family is happy with your garden and they might even bring their personal ideas for it. It is important that personal space is respected and that is why the garden must not be very wide, taking up all available space. Build from time to time a pathway or some benches where you can just relax and admire your work.Tag: gardening
- You Can Use Your Pottery Collection Great Uses for Your Pottery CollectionIf you are just starting to collect pottery here's a little secret that avid collectors know all too well: pottery is infinitely useful and extremely versatile. What this means is that most pottery has multiple functionality. Just make sure that there aren't certain restrictions on the pieces you purchase. Normally, pottery dealers will let you know the necessary care instructions and precautions that should be taken when you make the purchase. You will find that most pottery is dishwasher and microwave safe (depending on the glazing method-Raku pottery is not), food safe (again this depends largely on the glazing method and any paints that may have been used), safe for use in the oven, and able to hold liquid. So, you have a lot of options with most pottery pieces that go well beyond the uses for which the specific piece may have been designed to carry out. Storage. Vases and other vessels are great for holding things. They are by no means limited to flowers or fruit. Small pottery pieces are great for holding perfumes, particularly those with stoppers, or oils, and countless other small treasures you have lying around. Larger pieces of pottery are perfect for storing large amounts of food. And various medium sized pieces make excellent canisters in the kitchen for storing so many different things.Display. Of course there are many pottery pieces that you will want to showcase and display but did you realize that pottery could also be used to display other items you want to show off in your home. For example, use a pottery spoon rest in the bathroom as a soap dish. It's great for displaying special hand soaps in the bathroom and will add a little splash of color to the bathroom counter top.Cooking. You may not know that pottery can withstand fairly high temperatures with grace and style. Therefore, it's an excellent choice for cooking. Use pottery in the microwave and the oven, though never on the stove top for preparing and serving all kinds of dishes. If you are wary about using these beautiful pieces for cooking, they can make excellent choices for serving food. Dining. Stoneware is a very popular style of casual dinnerware these days and with good reason. Not only is it a beautiful addition to any table but it is also quite versatile. You may also find mugs, plates, and bowls that are thrown or hand built for your dining pleasure. Regardless, most tables are greatly enhanced by the addition of pottery rather than many other choices on the market today.There are so many thingsyou can do with your pottery, so don't miss out on much of the versatility that many find the primary incentive for investing in pottery for the home. Pottery is a beautiful addition to any home, so don't hide it away but use it fully and regularly in order to enjoy the true value of the pieces and get your money's worth. The true value in pottery is in how much it enhances your life; it won't enhance your life very much if kept locked away in the kitchen cabinets!Tag: pottery collection uses
- Six Popular Collectables It's never too late to start a collection. Some people start collecting when they are young - baseball cards, stamps, coins, or other items. Others may start later in life. Whatever you collect, make it something that you love.Personally, I love to collect various rocks, crystals, or seashells when I travel. Someone else I know collects porcelain figures. There are so many things to collect, and many of them can net you a good profit a few years later. We've all heard about people who made a fortune from one stamp or a baseball card. If you have collectables that are suitable, make a nice display in one or more rooms of your home. Family photo collections make beautiful displays. I know one woman who has at least 50 family photos, all in sterling silver frames arranged on top of her grand piano in the living room. The ebony grand piano makes a lovely backdrop for all of the various shaped sterling frames, and she can enjoy seeing her children and grandchildren everyday.Another friend of mine has a collection of Lladro porcelain from Spain. She displays them tastefully in groupings around her home. Art glass is also a highly sought after collectible, and welcome decorative pieces for the home. Here are six items that make popular collections:Cookbooks or travel booksKitchen gadgets - vintage Photos - family, travel, pets...Art GlassFigurines Linens and pillows (of the same type or vintage) If there is something you love, start a collection now to enjoy for years to come.
ECOSHOPPER.NET
- Smoke Green e-cigarettes that have no real smoke! Check this new invention. Its called the green cigarette. It is safe smoking as there are no tar or carcinogens. No smoke or ash to bother your friends with! They produce no pollution as the “smoke” is simply water vapor. There are no cigarette buts to discard. Did you know 4.5 million cigarette butts are [...]
- Cell Phone that charges while you twirl and spin it! I can see it a little addicting twirling this phone around your finger. There is a model that spins around your finger pictured here. Another model is of the crank variety. Well now you will have no excuse to have a dead cell phone battery. I wonder how quickly it charges? Designed by Mikhail Stawsky. Found [...]
- Solar headphone radio I could use this solar headphone radio when walking the dog. No more needing to worry if I have batteries or have batteries charged. It recharges even while listening. One hour of sunlight provides 1-3 hours of listening. and fully charge the headset will run up to 20 hours. Its 25 British Pounds. Available at Ecotopia.co.uk ShareThis
- Clock made out of an old PC hard drive Why not make something functional out of your old PC components?! This clock is made out of an old hard drive. It measures 4″w x 5″h. It comes with a battery too. This is a cool conversation piece too or give it as a gift to your favorite geek buddy. Only $35 and hand made in the [...]
- Cute lanterns are pencil sharpeners These cool lanterns are more than just cute. These Eco Twinkle lights are actual pencil sharpeners. Well you don’t have to sharpen a pencil. You can just crank it! Apparently, pencil sharpeners and human powered generators have the same mechanical twist structures. The designer has combined the two inventions to make a dual function. There is not [...]
- Sleek looking Piaggio USB scooter gets 156 MPG! Paggio is coming out with the first two-wheeled hyprid called the USB (Urban Sport Bike). And its not your typical dorky looking scooter! You will be proud to ride this one! It has a 30 mile radius on only electric or with the hybrid motor switched on it can get a whopping 156 MPG. The bike [...]
- The Fuel Cell Car and Experiment Kit The Fuel Cell and Car Experiment Kit offered by Hammacher Schlemmer offers children a look at one of the most important technologies of the 21st century. The overall quality of this experiment set means that children and students of all ages can use it extensively to learn these lessons. This kit can further be adapted [...]
- Shop eco goods with style at Planetforward Planet Forward is an ecommerce shop from Ontario, Canada. They sell only eco friendly sustainable goods. All of their products promote the health and well being of people and the planet while adhering to strict corporate justice and environmental welfare policies. You can find stainless steel bottles, thermal bottles, reusable bags, organic fashion, green cleaning kits [...]
- Chairs recycled from Vespa’s These cute chairs are unique and create a conversation topic. They are made from old fossil fuel Vespa min motorcycles. Most motorcycles are going hybrid or electric and we must do something with the old ones! These chairs are modern and sleek looking! These are made by a Spanish design studio Bel & Bel. Via Autoblog. There [...]
- Sproutbaby.com offers eco-friendly diapers and more Sproutbaby.com is an ecommerce retailer offering a selection of environmentally safe and affordable baby products including organic, affordable baby food and products for eco-conscious parents. They now offer biodegradable disposable diapers which keep a more sustainable environment. They have selected the Nature Babycare line of eco-friendly diapers. They are made of 99% compostable material. [...]
Deal-Seeking Diva
- More Deals from all over the Internet Happy Monday everyone! We had a busy weekend with friends and spent a lot of time trying to keep warm. It was cold here in Colorado! And three kiddos are certainly keeping me on my toes. They are so much fun! At any rate, here are some fun deals!Office DepotDon’t forget to use this printable coupon and save $30 off your purchase of $150 or more at Office Depot.Party CityGet $20 off at Party City when you use this printable coupon.Toys R UsToys R Us, http://www.toysrus.com/, has a 20 percent off coupon code that is good until Oct. 31. Enter 922600 to save.J. CrewJ. Crew, located at http://www.jcrew.com/, has a new code for 20 percent off purchases of $175 or more. Enter PRIVATESALEOCT to get this deal.ELFELF (Eyes Lips Face), located at http://www.elf.com/, has some fun coupons right now. Enter GET50 at checkout to receive 50 percent off your lowest priced or equal priced second item. Enter SHIP45 at checkout to receive free shipping and the code atlanta will get you 15 percent off all orders over $15 or more.Children’s PlaceChildren’s Place, http://www.childrensplace.com/, has a great coupon code for use during their fall sale. Enter HAA8 to save 15 percent.Banana RepublicBanana Republic has a great coupon too. Get 25 percent off $100 purchase with this printable coupon.ThinkGeekThink Geek, located at http://www.thinkgeek.com/, has a $10 off $30 purchases coupon. Enter PUZZLER to save!New York and CompanyNew York and Company has a 20 percent off $80 purchase coupon. Enter 1328 at checkout to get this deal.Hot TopicHot Topic has a $10 off $10 purchase coupon. Enter YHTBD101W at http://www.hottopic.com/ to save.
- Weekend Deals and Steals Happy Saturday everyone! My family and I have had a great week—my husband has been home the whole week on paternity leave and all of us have been enjoying getting to hang out as a family. This weekend is low-key, but fun. Besides getting flu shots (yuck!), we have spent time playing on the playground, visiting the Museum and other fun activities. Speaking of fun, here are this week’s fun deals…PetcoPetco has a 10 percent off coupon. Use this printable coupon to take 10 percent off your entire purchase.Dress BarnDress Barn has a printable coupon that will take 15 percent off your entire regular priced merchandise purchase.Old NavyOld Navy is offering 20 percent off and free shipping this weekend. Visit http://www.oldnavy.com/ and enter code BFF to get this discount. Enter JUST4YOU for free shipping.AeropostaleAeropostale has a 20 percent off coupon code. Visit http://www.aeropostale.com/ and enter SEPT20 to get this deal. Also enter 7B4A39 to get $10 off.GapGap.com will give you 20 percent off with code BFF and free shipping with code SILVER.Ann Taylor LoftAnn Taylor Loft will give you free shipping at http://www.anntaylorloft.com/ with code FREE75. You can also get 20 percent off with code 104004057. Enter code 15OFF75 to receive a $15 discount on purchases over $75.Babies R UsBabies R Us has a printable coupon good for $5 off a purchase of $25 or more today through September 21. Excludes diapers and formula.Crazy 8Visit http://www.crazy8.com/ and get your kids some new clothes. Take 20 percent off your order with code C8ONLINE. Here's a coupon for use in store.
- Monday Deals from babyGap, Old Navy, Banana Republic and more! Happy Monday everyone! I hope you all enjoyed your weekend. We spent a lot of time with little sick kiddos…but were able to spend some time around the house. Here are the deals I found for you! Bath and Body WorksBath and Body Works has a printable coupon that you can use to get a free body lotion with any in store purchaseAeropostaleAeropostale, http://www.aeropostale.com/, has a coupon code that will give you $10 off. Enter 7B4A39 to get this deal.Shoebuy.comShoebuy.com is offering to take $20 off your purchase of $50 or more when you pay with PayPal. They also have free shipping.Banana RepublicBanana Republic has a coupon for 30 percent off your order. Use online code HAPPY30 at http://www.bananarepublic.com/ or use this Printable Coupon.babyGapbabyGap has a great 15 percent of $50 purchase coupon. Use code BF836P86L9VQ at http://www.babygap.com/.Coldwater CreekColdwater Creek has a 25 percent off purchases code and is offering $10 off all denim jeans. Use code WXH5119 at http://www.coldwatercreek.com/.Old NavyOld Navy is having a great sale right now! Get 40 percent off baby and maternity items. Visit http://www.oldnavy.com/ to check it out!
- I'm Back with new deals for you! Good morning everyone! I am so sorry for taking such a long break from the Blog…but, I had the baby! Reid was born on August 6 and has been keeping me very busy ever since. My eldest daughter also started preschool a week after his birth and it has taken me a little bit longer than I thought it would to get back into the swing of things. I apologize for the lack of posts, but I am back and ready to get you the great deals! I hope you enjoy!Kohl’sKohl’s has a coupon for their online site, http://www.kohls.com/, for 10 percent off with code NEW8163. Kohl’s card holders can use MVCSAVE15 for 15 percent off.New York and CompanyNew York and Company, http://www.newyorkandcompany.com/, has a great coupon code that will get you $30 off purchases of $75 or more. Enter 4466 to get this deal. Get free shipping with code 2665.TargetTarget is having a great clearance sale on women’s items! Check it out at http://www.target.com/. Shipping is $5, and is free on orders of $50 or more.Hot TopicHot Topic, http://www.hottopic.com/, is giving $10 off orders of $10.01 or more with code GHTBD91W. Check it out!BuyCostumes.comBuyCostumes.com is having a great site wide clearance sale on select Halloween costumes. This would be a great place to get those costumes early…Eddie BauerEddie Bauer, http://www.eddiebauer.com/, has a 20 percent off code useable when you purchase pants from their store. Enter code FALRESH8 to get this deal.ShutterflyShutterfly.com is offering 15 percent off $25 purchases with code AF63-AG08.
- Tuesday Deals from all over the Internet Happy Tuesday night everyone! I hope all is well and you are enjoying your week. It has been HOT here in Colorado and the girls and I are enjoying some outdoor activities (albeit in the shade) before the new little one arrives. We have been swimming, to the zoo and tomorrow we are going to a nice air conditioned movie theater for a free movie. I hope everyone is keeping cool…here are this week’s “cool” deals:Jamba JuiceJamba Juice has a fun printable coupon where you can buy any Jamba Juice smoothie and get one free. Use it quick as it expires July 30.Dress BarnDress Barn has a great printable coupon where you can save an additional 20 percent on all sale and clearance items. Use your Dress Barn card and save 25 percent.JC PenneyJC Penney, located at http://www.jcpenney.com/, has a 20 percent off coupon code. Enter WKIT862 to save.Home DepotHome Depot is having a great sale you can save 50 percent off select patio furniture. Check out the deals at your nearest store.Ann TaylorAnn Taylor has a great coupon saving you 20 percent off your order of $100 at http://www.anntaylorloft.com/. Enter 104016307 to get this deal.Crayola StoreSave 15 percent at http://www.crayola.com/ with code SCHOOL8.Michael’sMichael’s has a 20 percent off your entire purchase printable coupon.WalgreensWalgreens has a 20 percent off school supplies coupon. Visit http://www.walgreens.com/ and enter code SCHOOL.
- Monday Deals and Steals from Kohl's, Old Navy, Children's Place and More! Good morning and happy Monday to you all. We had a fun-filled weekend at our local amusement park, Elitch Gardens, and then went to our friend’s Indian baby blessing ceremony. Not only was it really beautiful, but we got to eat authentic homemade Indian food for lunch. It made my tuna fish sandwich for dinner seem pretty lame!At any rate, here are today’s deals...Kohl’sKohl’s has some great deals online right now. Visit http://www.kohls.com/ and enter code NEW2616 to save 10 percent. If you have a Koh’s card, use MVCSAVENOW to save 15 percent. Also, until July 22, use SAVE30JULY to save 30 percent on your order.Limited TooLimited Too has a bunch of good deals too. Visit http://www.imitedtoo.com/ and enter code 755 to save 25 percent on your purchases.American EagleAmerican Eagle has a 15 percent off code too. Visit http://www.americaneagleoutfitters.com/ and enter code 57960481 to save. Also, if you spend over $100, you will get free shipping.Woman WithinWoman Within stores have some great coupon codes right now. Visit http://www.womanwithin.com/ to check out the deals. Enter code WW23807 to save 30 percent on your highest priced item. Save $20 off $80 with code WW23799. Enter WW23815 to save 20 percent on purchases of $100 or more. And, enter WW20514 to get free shipping on orders of $75 or more.New York and CompanyVisit http://www.newyorkandcompany.com/ and look at all the fun deals. Enter code 4461 to receive a $25 discount on orders over $50. Enter 9076 to get $20 off $60. Enter 9065 to get a $40 discount on orders online over $120.Old NavyOld Navy has a fun coupon right now. Visit http://www.oldnavy.com/ and check out the clearance. When you get to the checkout, enter EXTRA20 for an additional 20 percent discount on anything you buy from the clearance section. Get free shipping if you spend $100 or more with code JUST4YOU.The Children’s PlaceThe Children’s Place Monster Sale is going on right now with TONS of good deals. Visit http://www.childrensplace.com/ and get an additional 15 percent off the sale prices with FA78.Crazy 8Get 15 percent off your entire purchase at Crazy 8. Visit http://www.crazy8.com/ and enter code SAVE15.The LimitedThe Limited has a fun printable coupon that will get you $20 off purchases of $60 and $30 off $100 purchase.Linens ‘n ThingsLinens ‘n Things has a $5 off $15 coupon. Check out the printable coupon today!
- Great Tuesday savings and coupons Happy Tuesday to everyone! I am excited for the ned of the week and the fourth of July celebrations and fireworks. I hope you and your friends and family enjoy the holiday and the following deals…7-ElevenGet a free slurpee at 7-Eleven on July 11. Use the store locator to find a 7-Eleven near you.Toys R UsToys R Us has a printable coupon that will save you $10 off $50. Click for the printable coupon. You can also use it online at http://www.toysrus.com/ with code 922822 at checkout.Bath and Body WorksBath and Body Works is offering a printable coupon for free lotion. Use this printable coupon to get a free 2 oz. Bath & Body Works Signature Collection Body Lotion with any purchase. You can use the coupon online at http://www.bathandbodyworks.com/ by entering code WELCOME617.Children’s PlaceThere is a new Children’s Place Coupon code that will save you 15 percent off your order of $75 or more. Enter code MSAT78 at http://www.childrensplace.com/ to get this great deal.Babies R UsHere is a great link to a bunch of printable Babies R Us coupons!ExpressExpress is offering a Printable Coupon for $10 off $20 or $20 off $60 or $30 off $100 through July 6, which may be used in Express or Express Men's stores.Shoes.comShoes.com is offering a coupon code that will take off 20 percent off your total purchases. Use code HEAT08 to get this great deal!DisneyDisneyshopping.com has a 25 percent off purchases coupon. Use code SUMMER25 to save!New York and CompanyVisit New York and Company to get a great deal. Visit http://www.newyorkandcompany.com/ and get $15 off your purchase of $75 or more with code 8073.
- Monday Codes from Chadwick's, Target, PetSmart and more! Happy Monday everyone. I hope all of you had a great weekend and enjoyed your time with friends and family. We celebrated Father’s Day a week late and went to a fun martial arts tournament that a friend was participating in. All in all, it was a fun time! Speaking of fun…here are some fun deals!Jack in the BoxJack in the Box is giving you two free tacos when you bring in your gas receipts. They know it is expensive to fill up your tank, so they are helping you fill up your tummy!Speaking of eating out, click here to visit http://www.dealocker.com/ for some great freebies from eight restaurants. Chadwick’sVisit http://www.chadwicks.com/ and check out their great deals. Enter CHBESTJUNE for $20 off $60 orders. If you spend $90 it'll take off $30 and $40 will take off $120. If you enter CH15928, you can get 50 percent off on the third item you buy. If you put in CHWELCOME33, you will get a 30 percent off discount on any single item over $20, plus free shipping.TargetEnter target coupon code GOIH5SPN at http://www.target.com/ and get 10 percent off your entire online order.UltaUlta has a geat deal going on right now. Visit http://www.ulta.com/ and if you spend $10, get $3.50 off your order. Spend $25 and get $3.50 off your order plus a free cosmetic bag and samples. Spend $50 or more and get $3.50 off your order, a free cosmetic bag and samples and free shipping.Crate and BarrelVisit www.cb2.com/sale and check out the great deals. Get 50 percent off on select furniture, lighting, rungs, pillows, linens, etc.Ann TaylorAnn Taylor has a great coupon for its shoppers. Save 20 percent at http://www.anntaylor.com/ with code COOLLOOKS. Shipping is free on orders of $100 or more.PetSmartPetSmart.com is offering 15 percent off purchases of $70 or more. Use code JUNEBONUS to save.Wear ItAlso, there is a new coupon website that I was told about that might help all of us save some moolah. Check out http://www.wearit.com/coupons and notice all the great coupons they have from leading fashion and lifestyle companies. They also have “The List” which is a free personal shopper available via email. Check it out at http://thelist.wearit.com/.
- Tuesday Deals from Limted Too, Zales, Shutterfly and more Happy Tuesday afternoon. I hope everyone is enjoying their week so far. The girls and I have been swimming, to the park, to the carnival and running errands all week. We don’t have anything too exciting goin on right now, but are looking forward to August when the new baby brother should be making his appearance.Hope everyone is doing well and is ready to shop. Here are this week’s deals…Limited TooUse this printable coupon to save 25 percent off your purchase at the Limited Too.ZalesHere is another great deal Use this printable coupon to receive a $50 discount on a jewelry purchase of $200 or more at Zales.AeropostaleVisit http://www.aeropostale.com/ and save $7 with code CCSEVEN. Make sure you spend $70 to get this deal.JC PenneyVisit http://www.jcpenney.com/ and save some money. Enter code WKIT842 to save 20 percent on orders over $75.ShutterflySave money at http://www.shutterfly.com/. Save 20 percent off prints with code AF61-URK8.J CrewVisit http://www.jcrew.com/ and get 20 percent off purchases of $175 or more with code PRIVATE.Fashion BugVisit http://www.fashionbug.com/ and save some good money. Enter code 776208506 and get $10 off orders of $60 or more.StuffedAnimals.comVisit http://www.stuffedanimals.com/ and save 30 percent off with code 622358. They have most major brands to chose from!MichaelsSave 40 percent off any one item at Michaels with this printable coupon.
- Thursday Deals and Steals from all over the net Hello everyone! Happy Thursday to you! We have had a busy week around our house…my husband has been traveling for work all week and we have been keeping busy swimming and getting out and about. My girls have their ballet recital this weekend and we are really looking forward to it. Hope everyone is ready for the weekend—it is coming up soon. Here are this week’s great deals:eBaySave 10 percent on eBay.com with code C2MAY0810P. This is only valid on auctions that accept PayPal.ReebokSave 40 percent off at Reebok Outlet Stores with this printable coupon. Babies R UsBabies R Us has a Printable Coupon that will save you $5 off purchases of $25 or more. This is only good for store visits and is good until June 8.Macy’sMacy’s has a fun printable coupon for a free pair of Jockey’s Panties. Kohl’sKohls.com is having a great sale. The coupon code for 30 percent off is JUNESAVE30 at http://www.kohls.com/. Hurry and use this code—it expires June 10.American EagleAmerican Eagle, http://www.americaneagleoutfitters.com/, has a 20 percent off entire online purchase coupon code. Enter 58248203 to save.Krispy KremeTomorrow, Friday, June 6, is free doughnut day at Krispy Kreme. Get a free doughnut of your choice when you visit.Lane BryantLane Bryant has a 30 percent off code for their Website, http://www.lanebryant.com/. No code is needed—the prices are on the Website. Get free shipping on orders of $75 or more.JC PenneyJC Penney has a 30 percent off coupon for shoppers who visit http://www.jcpenney.com/. Enter code BLAZING and save.Limited TooGet 20 percent off your purchases at Limited Too. Visit http://www.limitedtoo.com/ and get the discount automatically.The LimitedVisit The Limited and use this printable coupon to save $15 on $60 purchases and $30 on purchases of $100 or more.Accessory BugVisit the new site at http://www.accessorybug.com/ and check out their new luck. Save 10 percent on your purchase with code stim08.
Bargainist
- GNC - 15% off purchases today GNC - 15% off purchases today GNC gets into the St. Patrick's Day savings spirit with a savings of 15% off all purchases today. Stock up on most used vitamins, or try out that new supplement that you've had your eye on. Other possible purchases include diet aids, exercise equipment and more. Place your order now, as this sale ends at 11:59 on 03/17/2010.Visit The Bargainist for more.
- Crocs.com coupon - 17% off purchases today Crocs.com coupon - 17% off purchases today Shop Crocs.com today and save a little green! In celebration of St. Patrick's Day, they're cutting 17% off all purchases no matter what color they are! Shop for pink Crocs, or pick up a pair of blue ones, just be sure to apply coupon code STPATS17 when checking out to see your discount. Hurry, this offer is only available on 03/17/2010. Visit The Bargainist for more.
- CheapTickets - Up to 45% off Las Vegas vacations CheapTickets - Up to 45% off Las Vegas vacationsFeeling lucky? Gamble on a great Las Vegas vacation booked at CheapTickets and save big! During their Las Vegas Blowout Sale, going on now, you can save up to 45% on Las Vegas vacations, plus qualify for all sorts of extras like resort credits. Sale ends 03/28/2010.Visit The Bargainist for more.
- NFLShop.com - 25% off your entire order NFLShop.com - 25% off your entire orderCelebrate St. Patrick's Day with an outstanding offer from NFLShop.com. Today only, save 25% on your entire order of football fan gear, apparel, and even shamrock goodies! Don't delay, though, this offer ends today 03/17/2010.Visit The Bargainist for more.
- Mikasa coupon - Up to 71% off the Brewmasters beer glass collection Mikasa coupon - Up to 71% off the Brewmasters beer glass collectionIn honor of St. Patricks Day, today only at Mikasa, you can use coupon code MWMBM to save up to 71% on the Brewmasters beer glass collection! The collection comes in varietal glasses, pilsners, wheat glasses, mugs, and a special set of beer flight glasses for beer tastings. Coupon expires 03/17/2010.Visit The Bargainist for more.
- The Knot Wedding Shop coupon - 15% off orders over $100 The Knot Wedding Shop coupon - 15% off orders over $100Is your life currently consumed with cake samples, bouquet sketches, and gown fittings? Then we're guessing you're getting married: Congrats! Let The Knot Wedding Shop help you plan and get everything together. Plus, for just three days, coupon code KSMAR15 will save you 15% on orders over $100. Coupon expires 03/19/2010.Visit The Bargainist for more.
- Home Decorators Collection coupon - $20 off $100, $50 off $250, or $100 off $500 of outdoors items Home Decorators Collection coupon - $20 off $100, $50 off $250, or $100 off $500 of outdoors itemsTo get you excited for the warmer weather that's around the bend, the Home Decorators Collection is hosting a two day Outdoors Preview Sale! Shop for patio furniture, umbrellas, fire pits, and more, and use coupon code OUTDOOR to save $20 on orders over $100, $50 off orders over $250, or $100 off orders over $500 of outdoors items. Coupon expires 03/18/2010.Visit The Bargainist for more.
- Lord & Taylor - Buy More, Save More Shoe Sale: Save up to 30% off Lord & Taylor - Buy More, Save More Shoe Sale: Save up to 30% off The more you buy, the more you save at Lord & Taylor this week. In one of the best shoe sales we've seen from this popular retailer, you can now save up to 30% off shoe purchases. Buy one pair to save 20%, 2 pair for 25%, and 3 pair or more to save 30%. Look for styles from designers like Enzo Angiolini, Anne Klein, Kenneth Cole and many others. No coupon code is needed, as all discounts are taken at checkout. Offer ends 03/29/2010.Visit The Bargainist for more.
- Urban Outfitters - 25 Free downloads Urban Outfitters - 25 Free downloads Looking for a few new tunes to add to your iPod? Then head over to Urban Outfitters where they're currently offering 25 free downloads. Chances are that you've not heard of any of the songs, or any of the artists for that matter. Who knows, a few of them might just become your new favorites! Just a few of the groups include Surf City, Acrylics, Local Natives, Free Energy and others. This offer is ongoing, so keep coming back for more. Visit The Bargainist for more.
- aerie - Bra Sale: Save 25% aerie - Bra Sale: Save 25% Click over to aerie where you can save on great fitting bras during their fabulous Bra Sale. You'll see savings of 25% off a huge collection that includes pushup, lightly lined, and even convertible styles. In addition, it's also a great time to stock up on undies for spring! Choose from 5 for $15 Favorites, or 3 for $15 Flirties. Keep coming back to shop these great offers through 03/30/2010. Visit The Bargainist for more.
Gentleman's Gadgets | The Inspirationsource for Men
- Both a Pocket- and a Wrist-Watch - Chopard’s L.U.C Louis Ulysse The habit of having an amount of loose cash in your tailored trouser’s pockets on hand survived the merciless progress, but a sophisticated pocket watch somehow has been exiled, or gradually...
- Nigel Cabourn Mandalay packaway Coat Over forty years of persistent passion for vintage clothing and details, forged the trend defying design philosophy of the British original Nigel Cabourn. To be geared up towards those unpredictable...
- Dunhill’s Holdall with the Carbon-Fibre Look There’s no question that Dunhill knows to supply men with premium gear, thus we’re almost used to receive extravagant releases from them just like their newly introduced Chassis...
- Sony’s colossal 3DTV - The LX900 Albeit marketing key metrics concentrate on reflecting the consumer’s demands as accurate, and quick as possible, it took them over a decade to re-invest into a technology that already was...
- Distilleria Bottega - 10yo Riserva Privata Since the early 70s, the Distilleria Bottega successfully cultivates an influential position in the grappa market. Now, they’ve introduced the 10yo Riserva Privata, an exquisite blend of...
- Samsung’s little Brightness Wonder - TL500 There’s no inevitable necessity to sacrifice a tad of quality if you prefer to carry significantly less weight around, or if you simply favor the freedom of movement a point and shoot can give...
- Hermès Arceau Duc Attele Pocket Watch Besides being a luxury brand of leading reputation, a fashion monopole for ties and the first address for a myriad of fashion accessories for the lady, Hermès is always good for a bright, bold...
- Asus O!Play HD2 boasts with USB 3.0 Searching for your next entertainment room’s technical focal point, you won’t be able to avoid Asus’ visual tidbit of a media player, dubbed the O!Play HD2. Alongside an enticing...
- A warmth, and welcoming Poker Set The reasons for poker being such an ever appropriate, and social class overarching game lays in its formal independence coupled with unwritten yet laid-back rules, which first paragraph guarantees...
- Thick, rugged, wool Picnic Blanket Over the past days, the first warm breezes took a noticeable role in our daily life, and the term alfresco receives refreshed importance when it comes to arrange with friends. To this end, every...
Outblush
- Personal Shopper: Cute, Cheap, Capacious Laptop Bags for Clare Clare emailed to say that she works at an IT job in two different cities, and therefore has to lug around a heavy laptop all the livelong day. She asked...Visit Outblush for the full post.
- Alternate Greetings Cards Sick of Hallmark sap? Say it with Alternate Greetings Cards. ($3 each) Designer Kiki Parry creates hilarious-yet-sentimental cards for every occasion, from weddings to new baby to new job to...Visit Outblush for the full post.
- Doubtblush: The Four Leaf Clover Kit You may have noticed that we're hardly perpetual rays of sunshine around here, but even so, we seem to spend a lot of our time enthusing about one gewgaw or...Visit Outblush for the full post.
- Avocado Salt and Pepper Shakers Mmm, is there anything more delicious than a simple slice of avocado with a little salt and pepper on it? Snacking on our favorite green fruit is all we can...Visit Outblush for the full post.
- Booty Buddy Blanket Take a look to the left. Here we exhibit the Booty Buddy Blanket ($68). Yes, we've entered the era of designer snuggies and slankets. It crossed our mind to Doubtblush...Visit Outblush for the full post.
- Vintage Chanel Pin At the beginning of the year, we mentioned WGACA vintage merchandise and just how cool it was that Shopbop was carrying it. The Vintage Chanel Pin ($575) is an authentic...Visit Outblush for the full post.
- Maier Nonstick Pan Cleaning Brush Did you know that it's actually a really, really bad idea to clean non-stick pots and pans with regular dish scrubbers and scour pads? Over time, they can scratch off...Visit Outblush for the full post.
- The Taylor Skirt by LA Boutique We're pretty sure we gasped and nearly fell out of our chair the moment our eyes met The Taylor Skirt ($28) (not even kidding). It's just *that* flowy and gorgeous....Visit Outblush for the full post.
- Tufted Velvet Headboard Feel like a queen when you retire to your boudoir...thanks to the Velvet Tufted Headboard ($300)! This gorgeous headboard adds touch of class and a much softer place to lean...Visit Outblush for the full post.
- DIY Green Monster Kit This little guy is our something green, look twice before you pinch us, St. Patty's goons. The utterly adorable furry friend is the end result of the DIY Green Monster...Visit Outblush for the full post.
Consumer Reports
- Choice magazine finds energy-use issues with some LG refrigerators Choice magazine finds energy-use issues with some LG refrigerators Like Choice, we've seen energy-use discrepancies. In "LG's Uncool Claims," Choice magazine, Australia's version of Consumer Reports, details some energy-use issues with the LG GC-L197NFS side-by-side refrigerator and the similar GC-P197WFS:"LG claims the fridge's annual energy consumption is 738kWh, but our testing shows it actually uses considerably more when it bypasses a special 'energy-saving mode,'" reports Choice about the LG GC-L197NFS side-by-side. "LG knows circumvention modes such as these do not comply with the relevant testing standard . . . yet this popular fridge and the similar GC-P197WFS model still somehow 'slipped through the net' and were released and sold. The company is now offering an energy label rebate of $331.20 (the cost of extra energy use @20 cents/kWh over 12 years) to compensate consumers who purchased an affected model."For some LG and LG-made refrigerators, Consumer Reports has also seen discrepancies between the energy use (in kilowatt hours of electricity) indicated on the EnergyGuide labels and the measurements we get from our own energy testing, which is different from and tougher than the U.S. Department of Energy-mandated energy-use testing procedure for refrigerators. For more details on our findings, read our October 2008 investigative report "Energy Star Has Lost Some Luster." In November 2008, the Energy Department announced that several LG and LG-made Kenmore refrigerators were no longer part of the Energy Star program. At that time, we reported that owners of affected models would receive a free modification of the refrigerator to boost its energy efficiency and money from LG to cover the difference between expected and actual operating costs.A year later, LG filed a complaint claiming that the Energy Department has taken unilateral measures against the manufacturer and that the agency should pursue an industry-wide approach to new testing standards for refrigerators., but in January, the U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C., upheld the Energy Department's decision to remove the Energy Star from 10 LG models (LFX21975ST, LFX25975SB, LFX25975ST, LFX25975SW, LFX28977SB, LFX28977ST, LFX28977SW, LMX25985SB, LMX25985ST, LMX25985SW) and 10 LG-made Kenmore models (79732, 79733, 79737, 79752, 79753, 79754, 79757, 79782, 79783, 79789).Energy-use discrepancies for fridges aren't limited to LG, as you can read in our May 2010 report on refrigerators, which will be on ConsumerReports.org and newsstands in early April.—Daniel DiClerico and Steven H. SaltzmanEssential information: If you're in the market for a new refrigerator, take advantage of a cash for appliances rebate. Next Steps Refrigerator Buying Advice: Types of Refrigerators | Refrigerator Features | Refrigerator Brands Refrigerator Ratings Subscribers can view and compare refrigerator Ratings. Recommended Refrigerators Look at the models we chose as the best of the best. Subscribe now! Subscribe to ConsumerReports.org for expert Ratings, buying advice and reliability on hundreds of products. Update your feed preferences
- By the Numbers: Washing machines head up the class for smart appliances By the Numbers: Washing machines head up the class for smart appliances $5.46 billion Projected U.S. sales of smart appliances by 2015, according to "Smart Appliance Report 2010," from Zpryme Research & Consulting. In 2008, annual revenue for the entire U.S. appliance industry was about $22 billion.Washing machines are expected to post the greatest intelligence gains, accounting for 19.2 percent of smart-appliance sales by 2015. Smart refrigerators and dryers are projected to grab 17.4 and 17.3 percent of the market, respectively.It makes sense that washing machines will lead the way for smart appliances, which among other high-tech capabilities can make cost-saving adjustments by receiving price signals from utilities. Since washers are in use only some of the time, they can better take advantage of lower electricity rates from demand-response pricing. Large appliance manufacturers are leading the smart-appliance revolution, according to Zpryme. See our 2010 International Builders' Show coverage of General Electric's (watch video above) and Whirlpool's smart appliances. The consulting firm also suggests that in order for smart appliances to move mainstream, small and midsize companies will have to enter the smart-appliance market, fostering competition and lower prices.—Daniel DiClericoEssential information: If you're looking to save on appliances now, use our free buyer's guides to appliances to find the most efficient, highest-value models. Also take advantage of a cash for clunkers for appliances rebate and shop at the best places to buy appliances. Next Steps Washing Machine Buying Advice: Types of Washing Machines | Washing Machine Features | Washing Machine Brands All Washing Machine Ratings Subscribers can view and compare all Washing Machine Ratings. Recommended Washing Machines Look at the ones that we chose as the best of the best. Subscribe now! Subscribe to ConsumerReports.org for expert Ratings, buying advice and reliability on hundreds of products. Update your feed preferences
- By the Numbers: Wasted water adds up drip by drip By the Numbers: Wasted water adds up drip by drip 10,000 Save water by fixing plumbing leaks. Number of gallons of water the average American family wastes every year because of dripping faucets, running toilets, and other plumbing leaks, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which estimates that more than a trillion gallons of water leak from American homes every year. (Find more wasted-water stats from the EPA.)To help you find drips and leaks and make the necessary repairs in your home, the EPA is putting on events and programs across the country as part of Fix a Leak Week, which run through March 21. If you can't make it to a Fix a Leak Week event, check out the EPA's step-by-step instructions for fixing toilets, faucets, showerheads, and outdoor-irrigation systems.—Celia Kuperszmid LehrmanEssential information: If your toilet or showerhead is more than 15 years old you can save water and money by installing a new water-saving toilet or low-flow showerhead. Our latest report on toilets found that many single-flush toilets outperformed dual-flush models and our review of low-flow showerheads featured some that provide a nice strong flow and can save you money. If you're looking for a new, efficient water heater, read our review of the GE GeoSpring electric heat-pump water heater. Subscribe now! Subscribe to ConsumerReports.org for expert Ratings, buying advice and reliability on hundreds of products. Update your feed preferences
- PaintRemedy iPhone app helps you identify paint problems at the source PaintRemedy iPhone app helps you identify paint problems at the source PaintRemedy can help you avoid painting problems. A key step to achieving a good-looking, long-lasting paint job is choosing quality paint. Our latest report on interior paints and review of exterior paints (ratings of interior paints and exterior finishes available to subscribers) will help you find the right finish.Proper surface preparation is another essential part of any painting project. But to do the job right, you've got to know how to handle any problems on the surfaces you're painting, such as walls covered with peeling paint or a bathroom ceiling dotted with mild and mildew. PaintRemedy, a free app for the iPhone and iPod Touch (and presumably for the highly anticipated iPad) developed by the Paint Quality Institute, part of Dow Chemical Company, can help you identify and deal with those problems. With PaintRemedy, you scroll through dozens of images of surface problems until you find the one that matches yours. The app provides you with information on possible causes and suggests solutions. For instance, if your issue is black spots on a bathroom wall, PaintRemedy will tell you that the likely culprit is mildew and that a bleach solution is its best combatant. Or if you're planning to paint an exterior stone wall covered with crusty, white salt deposit, you'll learn from PaintRemedy that efflorescence/mottling (shown) is the issue, that excessive moisture is a likely culprit, and that roof and gutter repair are likely part of the fix. You can get the same information using the problem solver on the Paint Quality Institute's Web site, though holding your laptop or computer monitor up to the wall to make a match could be a bit of a hassle.—Daniel DiClericoEssential information: Check out other home-improvement apps, and visit our Home Remodeling & Improvement Guide for information on a variety of projects. Learn more about Behr's Paint Your Place, Benjamin Moore's Color Capture, Olympic's ColorClix, and Sherwin-Williams' ColorSnap. Subscribe now! Subscribe to ConsumerReports.org for expert Ratings, buying advice and reliability on hundreds of products. Update your feed preferences
- Tip of the Day: Make sure your homeowners insurance covers you for storm damage Tip of the Day: Make sure your homeowners insurance covers you for storm damage As we reported yesterday in "Late-Winter Storm Delivers Another Blow to Northeast," what's been dubbed a hurricane without a name has left a path of devastation in the New York City metropolitan area, including countless fallen trees.Whether you're one of the thousands of area residents whose property suffered damage from a downed tree last weekend or if you're just concerned about your own homeowners insurance coverage, read "Will Homeowners Insurance Cover That Fallen Tree?" from the Consumer Reports Money blog. The post offers information on homeowners insurance from the Insurance Information Institute trade group. Subscribe now! Subscribe to ConsumerReports.org for expert Ratings, buying advice and reliability on hundreds of products. Update your feed preferences
- By the Numbers: Environmental impact of food waste in America By the Numbers: Environmental impact of food waste in America 40 percent Don't let it go to waste. Estimated amount of edible food wasted in this country along the supply chain. Among other issues it creates, that waste has a negative impact on the environment, according to a recent National Institutes of Health study, "The Progressive Increase of Food Waste in America and Its Environmental Impact."More than 25 percent of the nation's total freshwater supply goes to growing food that's ultimately wasted, and about 300 million barrels of oil annually are spent processing and transporting food that gets wasted, according to study estimates, which also notes that landfills with rotting food emit substantial quantities of methane. That wasted food is not only bad for the environment but it will also cost you money. To cut down on the amount of food you throw out:• Store food properly. Check out our report on the best food-storage bags and use our tips for storing fruits and vegetables in and out of your refrigerator and in your freezer. For more food-storage advice, download a PDF of "Keep It Fresh!" from the ShopSmart archives.• Eat leftovers promptly. FoodNetwork.com has a long list of recipes for leftovers.• Use common sense regarding dating labels on packaged food. "Sell by" indicates the last day a product should be sold but takes into account time for consumer use. For example, milk is okay for about seven days after the sell-by date. "Best if used by" is the last day an item, such as dry cereal, is at its peak. It is not a safety date. If a product has a "use by" date, follow it.You might also encourage supermarkets and restaurants in your area to participate in food-recovery programs that collect and distribute food to those in need.How do you cut down on food waste? Share your tips by posting a comment below.—Kimberly JanewayEssential information: Instead of throwing out food, compost it. Use our advice on composting to learn how to start and which foods can be composted. And cut down on your cookprint—the energy you use to prepare the food you eat. Next Steps Refrigerator Buying Advice: Types of Refrigerators | Refrigerator Features | Refrigerator Brands Refrigerator Ratings View and compare refrigerator ratings. Recommended Refrigerators Look at the top-performing models. Subscribe now! Subscribe to ConsumerReports.org for expert Ratings, buying advice and reliability on hundreds of products. Update your feed preferences
- Late-winter storm delivers another blow to Northeast Late-winter storm delivers another blow to Northeast In the aftermath of this weekend's nor'easter—which some have likened to a hurricane without a name—many Consumer Reports staffers are pumping out their basements, dealing with fallen trees, and waiting for the power to come back on. And according to the local news in and around New York City, they're not alone in having to deal with poststorm cleanup.As we've noted in a few earlier storm-related posts—on a couple of times this winter, it's key that you know how to safely use a chain saw and properly operate a backup generator.And if your home is prone to flooding, you might want to consider installing sump pumps or a drainage system or at the very least getting yourself a wet/dry vacuum. (Better yet, keep the water out of your basement and other areas.) And use a dehumidifier to control moisture levels inside your home.—Gian TrottaEssential information: Are you prepared for an emergency at your home? Find out what to keep in a home emergency kit and refer to our Storm & Emergency Guide. Subscribe now! Subscribe to ConsumerReports.org for expert Ratings, buying advice and reliability on hundreds of products. Update your feed preferences
- Promoting Homestar plan, Obama visited Opower Promoting Homestar plan, Obama visited Opower Opower got a boost from Obama. Last November, we reported on how utilities across the country are working with Arlington, Virginia-based software company Opower to create bills that compare consumers' monthly usage to that of their neighbors and include energy-saving tips.Opower got a nice nod on March 5 when President Barack Obama visited the company's headquarters. Stumping for his administration's $6 billion proposal for the Homestar initiative, the president drew a link between Opower's technology and what's been dubbed cash for caulkers."If they're getting this good information from Opower and they see that, boy, that drafty window is costing me a couple of hundred bucks a year, they're now going to have an incentive to go to Home Depots or go to Lowe's to hire a certified contractor and make the changes that will ultimately pay for themselves, improve our environment, and improve our economy," said the president, who a few months ago called home insulation "sexy."—Gian TrottaEssential information: See our Energy Saving & Green Living guide for more ways to save energy and money at home. Subscribe now! Subscribe to ConsumerReports.org for expert Ratings, buying advice and reliability on hundreds of products. Update your feed preferences
- Forum Friday: Money- and space-saving spring remodeling Forum Friday: Money- and space-saving spring remodeling Citing increased purchases of flooring and kitchen cabinets, Lowe's recently reported better-than-expected fourth-quarter earnings. Company shareholders probably welcome that news, a possible sign that home remodeling is picking up. At the same time, the American Institute of Architects' Home Design Trends Survey for the fourth quarter of 2009 noted that as kitchens are becoming smaller, homeowners are looking for more green products, and that "doing more with less space is now a key consideration." As we've been seeing on our kitchen-remodeling and bath-remodeling discussions, some green shoots are popping up around the subject of maximizing money and space while remodeling. Kitchen remodeling: A new discussion has arisen around specific brands of vinyl and linoleum flooring, and some people are for or against soapstone and engineered quartz countertops. If new kitchen cabinets aren't for you, these storage-extending pullout shelves and lazy-Susans can make your current cabinets more space efficient (ratings available to subscribers). Finally, the space-saving GE Advantium oven is the subject of a busy discussion in our more kitchen appliances forum.Bathroom remodeling: Green-minded readers have started a discussion on whether cork or bamboo flooring is better. They're also running hot and cold about their favorite low-cost bathroom fixtures, low-flow showerheads, and toilet models that are least likely to clog.Essential information: Check out our updated Home Remodeling & Improvement Guide. Subscribe now! Subscribe to ConsumerReports.org for expert Ratings, buying advice and reliability on hundreds of products. Update your feed preferences
- Spring ahead! Daylight-saving time starts March 14 Spring ahead! Daylight-saving time starts March 14 Don't forget to turn your clocks ahead. Throughout most of the United States, daylight-saving time (DST) will start at 2 a.m. your local time this Sunday, March 14. So be sure to spring ahead and set your clock forward one hour. Find daylight-saving time start and end dates for 2010 and beyond.Learn more about daylight-saving time and consider tackling some of the simple chores here to make your home safer and cut down on energy use (one of the reasons cited in 2005 for extending daylight-saving time):• Replace the batteries on your smoke and carbon-monoxide alarms. (Do this once a year, say now at the start of daylight-saving time or, even better, at the end of daylight-saving time.) And since these devices have a limited service life, you should replace smoke alarms every 10 years and CO alarms every five year. Use our free buyer's guide to smoke and carbon-monoxide alarms to find the best models and learn how to properly install them. Ratings of smoke alarms and carbon-monoxide alarms are available to subscribers.• Check your dryer vent for buildup that can become a fire or carbon-monoxide hazard. • Reset the timers on outdoor lights to avoid wasting electricity, and replace incandescent bulbs with more-efficient compact fluorescent lightbulbs recommended for outdoor use. • Replace the water filter in your refrigerator if needed and check to be sure the door gasket has a tight seal.• If you haven't already, turn the temperature on your storage-tank gas water heater down to 120°F. This will save you money and lower risk of scalding injuries. (Don't do this on a storage-tank electric water heater. The lower extremity of an electric water heater can be cooler than the thermostat setting, which might make it an ideal breeding ground for bacteria.) Also consider draining your water heater.• Get your air conditioning in shape for cooling season. And if you're buying new cooling equipment, don't wait for the warm weather to arrive to schedule installation; contractors might be too busy with other jobs to get to you in a timely manner. A programmable thermostat can also help cut utility bills.• Inspect your deck and clean underneath it to determine whether you need to replace or refinish it anytime soon.—Gian Trotta Subscribe now! Subscribe to ConsumerReports.org for expert Ratings, buying advice and reliability on hundreds of products. Update your feed preferences
Home & Garden Blog
- Best and Worst: Theories for Interior Decorating Every year and every season, there seems to be a different trend for interior decorating. Try prints! Try florals! Try darks! Try lights! From feng shui to serene temple motifs, there are plenty of theories about how to design your home to give you the most energy. There are some basic theories of interior decorating that are all at opposite ends of the spectrum: Keep it simple: you don't want too much clutter, you want the space to be hard to navigate. On the other hand, you want your home to be "homely," with pictures and relics of travel, ancestors, and schoolwork so that your home is filled with memories. No matter what you decide, remember to remember the sunshine and soon to be summertime. Remind yourself of the good weather and good memories to come with some fresh flowers and bright new curtains. Whatever you decide, don't go dark or ominous. No Gothic grandfather clocks. No stonework. Your life's complicated enough, so your home doesn't have to be! Related posts:Decorating Tips for Small Gardens More Awesome ‘Decorating on a Dime’ Ideas Spring Decorating Ideas
- Do it Yourself: Prepping the Garden for Spring We may be a little early for April Showers bring May Flowers, but it's never to soon to start preparing your spring garden bed. Think about the colors and location you would like, make sure there's going to be lots of sunshine, and don't forget to think about management. Are you the queen of all green thumbs, or does cutting grass sound like the closest you have come to gardening in the past few years? Once you have your own spring garden in full bloom (sometime in May or June), you can make beautiful Mother's Day bouquets, gifts, and dinner table centerpieces. Until then, don't hesitate to order some freshly, professionally grown flowers to brighten up your day. Gardens are seeds of inspiration, but the decor doesn't have to be all organic: think about garden decor to take your outdoor space from lush and organic to habitable! You can add some flags, or decorative stones, or pottery. A thermometer or sun dial is always a beautiful addition. Make some wild decisions and look at some exotic and beautiful flowers listed at Buksia.com. Related posts:Spring On Sale: Perennial Flowers and More A British Cup of Tea in the Garden? Accessorize Your Garden
- Workout in Comfort: Create a Home Fitness Center The weather is turning green and fresh (besides the unhappy downpours of rain and dreary grey skies for now.) But there's hope! Every few days, there is hope that the sun will sparkle through and we can enjoy some sunshine. The question is, are you prepared? Is your body ready for the sunlight? Have you been outside in the past several weeks? Have you exercised? With warm weather brings self-doubt, unfortunately, and regret about not sticking to the New Year's Resolution to work off some holiday weight gain before March and April. You vowed to sign up for the gym, but with the horrendous winter we've had, who can make it outside? So why not bring the gym home? With some savvy shopping tips, you can build yourself a fitness room for under $150. Here are some tips and tricks to get the most out of a new fitness room. Related posts:Style and Comfort: Do I Need My Own Snow Blower? Warm Up in a Pure Comfort Blanket – Deep Discounts at LinenSource Bedding This Week in Home and Garden Blogs
- What’s Cooking, Coolio? No Seriously, What’s Cooking? You might remember Coolio from his famous song, "Gangster's Paradise."Remember him from much else? Not me. He pretty much disappeared without anyone noticing. Well, I did notice the other day, so I decided to look him up. Guess what I found? Word around town is that Coolio's back as a chef. After years off the radar, he's been working on a cooking show filled with original recipes. I've watched a couple of these, and they are absolutely hilarious. The video's probably aren't what you need if you're cooking with young kids, but if you're old enough to watch PG-13 movies, then you are old enough to absolutely love these. Soul Rolls? Tricked Out Westside Tilapia? Coolio's brilliance leaves me speechless. I read in an interview that he has had a passion for cooking his whole life. Apparently he's been cooking with his mother since he was a young child. From professional rapper to professional chef: talk about a real personality. Check out his videos on YouTube, or check out his book, Cookin with Coolio: 5 Star Meals at a 1 Star Price on Smarter. Related posts:Knife Set Deal – 65% Off 10 Piece Cutlery Set from Cooking.com Outdoor Cooking Deal – Summer Fun – Discount Grill Accessories Cooking Tips: How to Cook Rice
- Plan to Take Advantage of Daylight Savings & Plant Roses I recently read that March is the best time to start planting roses. Roses are a type of plant with a bare root. These types of plants grow best when the roots have time to develop into a root system before the weather is warm. By the time that spring approaches, your flowers will be ready and able to bloom. When gardening in March, especially in the cold, it is recommended that people wrap the flower roots with moss, newspaper, or plastic film before planting in colder soil. No worries if it's too cold to garden outside. Stay indoors, and plant your roses in an indoor pot or planter box. When the weather's back to warm, you can put your roses in the ground outside. Check out some tips for some tips for indoor gardening, and let Smarter help you with your shopping to garden smarter. Remember: Set your clocks forward on Sunday, March 14. Related posts:Gardening Deal: Year End Sale on Indoor Gardening Tool Sets Still Not Too Late for Planting? Planting Garlic
- Shop Smarter: Green Budgets Save You Money When checking my email this morning, I came across this website with "going green" tips for your dorm room. It reminded me of my own personal and college experiences with "going green." While I was in school, my college's administration invested substantial time and money in keeping us green. In fact, the school sponsored several initiatives to inspire students to become environmentally conscious and energy efficient. For one campaign, a local student organization sponsored a campaign to measure energy efficiency by dorm building. A local environmental club gave us a checklist to follow in addition to energy-efficient light bulbs to get us motivated. The winning dorm received a prize. To be honest, I'm not sure what the prize actually was: my dorm was less than enthusiastic and not even close to winning. Now more than ever, businesses and schools have economic incentives to go green. In a lot of ways, green is the new black and the focal point of many public relations and marketing campaigns. Businesses have an economic incentive to go green with press opportunities. My college, Claremont McKenna College, has an outstanding PR task force that ensures that the institution receives press in widely-read publications and ranking systems. For press and PR alone, going green is worth it. Home consumers and dorm-dwellers have different needs and objectives. Like businesses, we want to get the biggest bang for our buck, but our marketing and PR objectives are different. We absolutely want to "go green" and present ourselves as environmentally conscious, but the economic incentives just aren't always there. I'm a person who plans my finances down to the last detail, and yes, I'll calculate whether an energy efficient lightbulb will actually save me money. In most situations, I do opt for the energy efficient light bulb: a few months ago, my local utility company offered incentives in the form of a cash back rebate that covered the 100% of the light bulb cost (excluding sales taxes). What's a better incentive than free? At the same time, I'm more than hesitant to buy a $20,000 hybrid when I can keep driving my hand-me-down gas guzzler that I paid off two years ago. The environment isn't motivation enough for me to commit myself to a down payment and monthly car payment when my gas is about $150 per month. My advice for going green is to start small. Set up a recycling bin and buy rechargeable batters, which will actually save you money. Sell or donate your "junk" for a tax deduction, and pay your bills online. Sell books online, ride a bike, and walk when you can. Related posts:Green Washing Machines: Save More Money! Save with Fluorescent Bulbs Going Green has Never Looked Brighter
- Do it Yourself: V-Day Cocktail Recipes Want to make a cocktail this Valentine's Day that's sure to make a splash? Try a spicy new cocktail to make it a memorable night. Cocktails are all about two things: the right liquor for you and your companion's tastes and tolerances, and the right presentation. Maybe you'll want an Agave Kiss, if you like tequila, creamy drinks, and raspberries. Or maybe a little Besame Kiss with Chambord and Lime for a fruity, delectable taste. To make either of these drinks, you're going to need highball glasses and cocktail strainers, and a few other kitchen gadgets. The preparation is all part of the presentation. Maybe if you really want to make a sensual, delicious dessert for a whole crowd, look no further than drunken fruit recipes. With five and a half pounds of your favorite fruit and two quarts of your favorite top-shelf liquor, you're sure to mix a fine dessert that will be fun to eat and even more fun to feed others! For this you're going to need a large jug and several jars to store the fruit while it soaks up the alcohol. Related posts:Manhatten Cocktail Case – Picnic Time in Spring The Perfect Cocktail Container Scratch ‘n’ Sniff Wallpaper!
- Best and Worst: Valentine’s Gifts for Women The worst gifts you can give a woman are gifts that seem judgmental. Remember, this is different for many women. The general things to stray away from are weight, body image, and anything that seems to draw attention to a woman's faults. Giving a woman a scale is probably the worst gift imaginable, and if you have given the special lady in your life a scale, you have to go back to step one of general care and compassion for others, and beg forgiveness immediately, if the woman is still talking to you. In this same line, giving a woman the gift of a gym membership or extra large yoga pants are less than desirable, but remember, some women would find these extremely caring and thoughtful gifts. Keep your special lady's feelings in mind before you damage them this holiday season. Good ideas for Valentine's Day gifts involve heartfelt messages and thoughtful, convenient solutions. I suggest going for the triad gift giving experience: give one sweet/ edible gift, one small heartfelt gift, and one practical, useful gift. There isn't a lack of sweets to choose from, and the heartfelt gift I can't really help you with, but the practical or useful gift I can. Think about kitchen supplies and storage, like cookware, cutlery, kitchen linens, and food storage. These gifts don't exactly scream "I love you", but they do say "I care about you and want to make your life easier, so we can spend more time together". And that's a wonderful message too. Related posts:Valentine Gifts Deal: Save 20% On all Valentine Gifts at Mikasa! Picture Frame Deal: Personalized Gifts For The Whole Family! Discounts on Gift Baskets
- Trendy Loveseats for Style and Comfort Which way to the loveseat could be a cute little pickup line at the local lounge or bookstore. But if you actually want a loveseat for practical reasons, there are a few style and comfort choices that you should consider. The beauty of loveseats is that they are smaller and more compact than a standard sofa or couch, which makes them easier to transport or fit in tiny rooms. Plus, they are cheaper but offer the same benefits of comfy seating. One downfall: loveseats are rarely large enough to be pull out couches. If you find a loveseat that is also convertible into a pull out bed, I recommend snatching it up, or emailing me so I can take it! Take this loveseat for example. It's cute and chic and shiny but maybe a little worn. Looks like it's been left out on the curb and easy for some trash picking. Trash picking not your style? Don't worry, there are plenty of other lessons to take from this fab photo shoot. Bright colored furniture can brighten up a room, making it feel sunny and optimistic. Dull, dirty couches are never the ones to go for, unless you have a bright carpet or wall color or are going for more of the sophisticated bachelor or bachelorette pad. Related posts:Help – I need a couch! Easy Deal – Check Out this Red Easy Rider Couch Style and Comfort: Playful Organization
- Valentine’s Day Restaurants All over the United States It's high time for the Valentine's Day game plan: you've decided whether you want to go big with one significant other or if you're single and want to get a group of fellow singles together for a celebration. No matter what, you might not be able to host your grand plan at your own apartment: maybe you're roommate is a little tough, or maybe you want a more impressive venue for your Valentine's Day dinner. We've got you covered for some hot locations for your holiday. East Coast: Make a ski vacation weekend up to Okemo Mountain and stop in Providence, RI for a dinner at Al Forno before you leave. This little gem of a restaurant serves delectable Italian food that is sure to please. Midwest: MK Restaurant in Chicago is off the beaten path but worth the trek through the side streets. Don't forget to ask for a cake and shake! West Coast: Trek down to San Diego for a seafood lovers dreamboat restaurant, The Oceanaire Seafood Room. You want to save room for the Baked Alaska dessert, but don't skimp on ordering appetizers: I've heard taht the crab cakes are the best around! If you're looking for extra restaurant savings, check out More Rebates where you can find a 15% cash back offer at restaurant.com, a resource with a variety of restaurant coupons. Related posts:Valentine Gifts Deal: Save 20% On all Valentine Gifts at Mikasa! Create Your Own Valentine’s Date: Fondue Sets Creative Date Ideas: Have a Great Night
MSN Shopping: Results for Home Furnishings
- Kohler Towel Ring K-208-CP - on sale at $175.75 Kohler Towel RingAntique Collection7-3/4"W x 3-1/2"D x 5-3/4"HFinish-matched KOHLER® accessories complement the design and function of your KOHLER sink and allow you to customize your kitchen work space.
- Glass Hanger Racks - 16''; Brass Plated - Sold As: 1 Each - on sale at $3.61 Glass Hanger Rack 16 Over All Length For Stemware Brass Plated Included: Brass Plated Mounting Screws Our Stemware Glass Hanger Racks add counter space to your bar. Easy & quick installation almost anywhere. Features Manufacturer's...
- Kohler Towel Ring K-208-PB - on sale at $237.18 Kohler Towel RingAntique Collection7-3/4"W x 3-1/2"D x 5-3/4"HFinish-matched KOHLER® accessories complement the design and function of your KOHLER sink and allow you to customize your kitchen work space.
- Chafer Rectangular Roll Top Gold Titanium Plated Handle - Sold As: 1 Each - on sale at $290.34 Create a beautiful buffet setting with a touch of elegance High polish 18/8 stainless steel finish and gold accents make this roll-top chafer your best bet. Features Manufacturer's Category: Chafer Capacity: 8 Qt Shape: Rectangular
- ShowHouse by Moen Towel Ring YB9786BN - on sale at $50.51 ShowHouse Bathroom AccessoriesFelicity CollectionComes with Mounting Hardware and InstructionsTowel RingCoordinates with Felicity Faucet
- Glass Hanger Racks - 10'' Brass Plated - Sold As: 1 Each - on sale at $3.41 Glass Hanger Rack 10 Over All Length For Stemware Brass Plated Included: Brass Plated Mounting Screws Our Stemware Glass Hanger Racks Add Counter Space To Your Bar. Easy &Amp; Quick Installation Almost Anywhere. Features Manufacturer's...
- ShowHouse by Moen Towel Ring YB9586BN - on sale at $56.97 ShowHouse Bathroom AccessoriesBamboo CollectionCoordinates with Bamboo FaucetsComes with Mounting Hardware and InstructionsTowel RingUniquely Styled Ring DesignBamboo Bath Accessories pull your whole room together with an earthy influence...
- Kohler Towel Ring K-16140-AF - on sale at $166.12 Kohler Towel RingRevival Collection5-7/8" W x 3-3/4" D x 6-7/8" H
- Menu Clips - 2-1/4''; Nickel Plated Steel - Sold As: 1 Each - on sale at $0.75 Menu Clip 2-1/4'''' Base Nickel Plated Steel These menu clips are perfect for prominently displaying menus or table numbers. They are made of a nickel plated, tightly wound spring wire welded to a steel base with a deluxe polished finish....
- ShowHouse by Moen Towel Ring YB7486CH - on sale at $64.12 ShowHouse Bathroom AccessoriesVivid CollectionComes with Mounting Hardware and InstructionsCoordinates with Vivid Powder Room FaucetTowel RingThe unparalleled Vivid selection is the latest in spa-like luxury, sure to give your powder room...
MSN Shopping: Results for Kitchen & Housewares
- Waring 1-bottle Professional Quality Wine Chiller - on sale at $99.95 A must-have for wine lovers, this elegantly designed, tabletop wine chiller allows you to keep your wine at temperatures consistent with professional standards for 33 varieties of red, white, and champagne wines. Features include: ...
- Grind and Brew DGB600BC CoffeeMaker-10Cup Stainless Steel Grinder - on sale from $119.90 Cuisinart Grind & Brew Thermal Coffeemaker grinds your favorite beans just before brewing. A double-wall insulated brushed stainless steel thermal carafe keeps up to 10 cups of coffee hot for hours. The elegant European design creates the...
- 8-pc. Stainless Steel Contemporary Stainless Cookware Set - on sale from $399.95 Calphalon Contemporary Stainless cookware brings the sleek and clean look of a brushed stainless pan to the kitchen. Tempered glass lids with stainless edges complete the stylish package. The Calphalon contemporary stainless cookware is...
- Long Potato Mashers - Nickel Plated - 18 7/8'' - Sold As: 1 Each - on sale at $8.01 Potato Masher 4-1/4'''' Head Diameter 18-7/8'''' Over All Length Nickel Plated Steel Wire Wooden Handle This Is The Tool Most Of Us Are Familiar With. I Dont Think Theres A Kitchen In America That Doesnt Have One Of These. I Love The...
- Lobster Crack, 5-1/2'' L, chrome-plated forged steel (12 Dozen/Unit) - Sold As: 12 Dozen - on sale at $234.00 Lobster Crack, 5-1/2'' L, chrome-plated forged steel Features Construction: chrome plated Length: 5''''
- Glass Hanger Racks - 16''; Chrome Plated - Sold As: 1 Each - on sale at $2.83 Glass Hanger Rack 16 Over All Length For Stemware Chrome Plated Included: Brass Plated Mounting Screws Our Stemware Glass Hanger Racks add counter space to your bar. Easy &Amp; quick installation almost anywhere. Features Manufacturer's...
- Chafer Round Roll Top Gold Titanium Plated Handle - Sold As: 1 Each - on sale at $211.91 Create a beautiful buffet setting with a touch of elegance High polish 18/8 stainless steel finish and gold accents make this roll-top chafer your best bet. Features Manufacturer's Category: Chafer Shape: Round
- Glass Hanger Racks - 16''; Brass Plated - Sold As: 1 Each - on sale at $3.61 Glass Hanger Rack 16 Over All Length For Stemware Brass Plated Included: Brass Plated Mounting Screws Our Stemware Glass Hanger Racks add counter space to your bar. Easy & quick installation almost anywhere. Features Manufacturer's...
- Contemporary Nonstick 10-pc. Cookware Set - on sale from $399.95 There almost seems to be a sensuous fascination with cooking. Makes sense, actually. Its about creation and giving birth to a provocative, tasty dish that excites and enlightens the senses - taste, fragrance, and visual. Calphalon realizes...
- Masher 18'' L square face/wooden handle nickel-plated - Sold As: 1 Each - on sale at $7.02 Masher, 18'' L, square face/wooden handle, nickel-plated Features Length: 18'''' Shape: round
