All Giggles N’ Hugs as Families Embrace New Kid-Friendly Restaurant

For parents of young children who want to dine out at upscale restaurants with the entire family, the conundrum has always been simple:
Option one: Go out and risk facing the glares and nasty remarks of diners who feel that young children have no place in their favorite eating establishment. Or…
Option two: Don’t go out to eat at an upscale restaurant at all. Instead, settle for yet another night in … or go to Chuck E. Cheese — yet again — where they will be forced to nosh on sub-par food.
In all, most parents of young children consider their choices to be very undesirable — until now.
Enter option number three: Giggles N’ Hugs a Los Angeles-based restaurant that has managed to combine the best of both worlds for families. Founded by Joey Parsi and his wife, Dorsa, after a disastrous night out with their then 3-year-old and 6-month-old children, the two realized there was a void for those who wanted to go to a decent restaurant with their kids.
“I was appalled that we took our kids to a restaurant where we had to turn to our 3-year-old and say, ‘Be something other than a child,’” said Joey Parsi.
With that, the gem of an idea was planted for the couple — create a space that included wholesome, organic food in an atmosphere that is accepting of children — one that was fun and casual, where kids could interact with parents and each other.
In addition to freshly prepared, nutritious meals (think tilapia fish sticks, for instance) the restaurant is staffed by team members who keep the kids busy with creative activities and entertainment from puppet shows to discos and outfit certain locations with a plethora of toys, such as a pirate ship and a princess castle — all of which are cleaned thrice daily by its staff.
Since its 2008 debut, the restaurant now has three locations and has become a hot spot for L.A.’s most prestigious families, whose clientele reads like a who’s who of Hollywood, including Halle Berry, Nicole Kidman, Jennifer Garner, Ben Affleck and Mark Wahlberg.
“Many of the major A list celebs are customers and have had their children’s parties at Giggles N’ Hugs,” says Joey.
As for its future, the couple say they envision something akin to the play space Gymboree, in which the Giggles N’ Hugs brand can be attached to more than just the restaurant. They also plan to expand from three locations to hundreds of franchises and company-owned spots around the world.
“We’re now branching out into a kids’ clothing line, and into a kids’ frozen foods line,” says Joey. “The possibilities are endless.”

Opening a Master Lock with a Soda Can

RV520:Samsung RV520 15.6 inch Laptop/review

Hi Guys,

 Just reviewed this fantastic Samsung RV520 laptop. It certainly looks the business, what do you think?

If you want practical usability and reliable performance at an affordable price then the Samsung RV520 Notebook has it all–and more. Its stylish design, incorporating an ergonomic Island keyboard, looks like a top of the range model. With a powerful NVIDIA GeForce GT 520M* graphics card its 15.6” HD LED displayproduces the sharpest images and boldest colours, with the most

Samsung RV520 Laptop

accurate widescreen representation of movies and games. The addition of genuine Windows 7 Home Premium* means everyday tasks are much simpler, and its unique Fast Start technology also lets you wake your notebook from sleep mode within seconds of opening the lid or pressing the power button. And with Samsung’s PhoneShare you can even connect to the Internet using your smartphone–so you can browse, socialise or send e-mails wherever you are. *Specifications may vary based on models. Designed for great value.
Offers great all-round value by combining outstanding quality and performance, as well as multiple finishes–in white, black or wine red. Its ergonomic features, including an Island keyboard, also ensure a more enjoyable and productive user experience.

Click on the Samsung RV520 image to see more.

Guitar Lessons For Beginners

Hi Guys,

 

If you have a notion to try the guitar but found good guitar teachers either unavailable too expensive this video is for you. Give it a try – it could change your life.

Click on Guitar Lessons For Beginners for your video access

 

Your Home Based Business And The Freedom Attached To It.

Hello Guys,

A few people have asked me if I’ve ever tried making money online. Well I hadn’t until last month when I decided to give it a try. So if you are interested in earning a living from home read on.

There are various reasons why there are many individuals who want to start their own home-based Internet marketing business. Some are saying that the amount of money that they are earning from Internet marketing is higher compared to their monthly salary from their regular work. It even comes to a point that they are earning money similar to or more than the salary of their managers and department heads! This is relatively true, since there are Internet marketers who are earning as much as a hundred thousands of dollars within a month.

Other reasons that these Internet marketers may include in their list are their differences with their respective bosses, spending more time with their spouses and children, the chance of traveling which is virtually impossible if they are just ordinary employees, the chance for an improved quality of life, and others. There may be other reasons behind their determination to start and continue their home-based Internet marketing business, but these are all under a single theme.

All individuals starting their home-based business really look for one thing—and that is FREEDOM!

If you have your own home-based Internet marketing business, you will gain freedom from the pressure of your work. There will be no boss who will tell you what you need to do and what you need not to do. There will be no alarm clock that will wake you up and go to your dead-end work that does not pay you enough to let you do what you want to do. You will be able to tell your children that all of you will be going to Disneyland during Yuletideseason because you have enough money. You will be able to watch your favorite musicals or play your favorite sport since you do not have work to attend to.

Wordle Cloud of the Internet Marketing Blog - 08/15/08 (Photo credit: DavidErickson)

Yes, it is about money. However, if you do not have the freedom with the things that you want to do and you always act as if you are a robot who will follow everything for the sake of earning more money for your family. By starting your own home-based Internet marketing business, you will be able to ditch your boss, your bedside alarm clock, those coats and ties that you wear, the gripping clients, and other pressures that prevents you to enjoy your work.

There was once an Internet marketer who confirms that the freedom offered by home-based Internet marketing business is really fantastic. He starts his day at 10 o’clock in the morning, going to his “office” on his favorite lay-around-the-house clothes. After doing all of his Internet marketing-related task in the morning, he will sleep again and will wake up at around 4 o’clock in the afternoon, do some grocery shopping on the nearby grocery store, and checking his personal computer unit if there were any updates with regards to the deals he had made early in the morning. He can do all of this because he is the boss and in-charge of his home-based business. There was no real potential loss since he can make it up on the next day.

That is freedom—even in the strangest way possible. You do what you want or what you need to do without asking permission or worry about what will happen to your pay slip if you leave work earlier… or probably take a day or two off completely.

However, there are few individuals who realize the benefit of freedom in starting a home-based Internet marketing business. Most of Internet marketers just sign up on a particular Internet marketing program and make all the money that they could.

Another freedom that you will enjoy in starting you home based Internet marketing business is carrying your “office” on other locations aside from your bedroom or the basement of your house. Even you are in Disneyland, the coastal areas of Florida, or in the casino haven of Las Vegas, you will be able to close deals and earn lots of deals. You will feel more relaxed if in between your relaxation or vacation on other places, you are thinking of a business that is giving you salary no matter what you are doing.

Start your home-based Internet marketing business now and declare yourself to be the BOSS—doing what you love to do without the fear of being FIRED and LOSING!

Click here for more information

How To Utilise Free Space In Your Home

Hello Folks,

Instead of rambling on today about DIY projects I would like you to watch this interesting videoby clicking on the link below. I think that you will find it is full of good ideas regarding utilising your free space.

Enjoy ….. watch video here

A Bit Of Fun

This is what happens if you don’t pay your taxes.

Watch video here.

Elvis Presley’s Final Journey.

Hi Folks,

If you are an Elvis fan you’ll want to watch this video.

Watch it here.

 

How To Pick A Lock Using Paperclips

Lockpicking (Photo credit: vrde)

Hi Guys,

Lost your keys? Yes many of us have done it at one time or another … I know I have, which has resulted in panic stations … where will I find a Locksmith at this time of night, how much will he charge and what will I do if I can’t find one are just some of the questions running through your head at that instant. Well if this sounds like you never fear. There is an alternative which may just get you out of trouble if you watch this video.

Watch it here

A Christmas Card For You

I would like to wish all my fellow bloggers  a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Image via Wikipedia

Your christmas card is HERE!

Best wishes,

Craig.

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Christmas Movies

Hi folks ….. It’s Christmas!!

After we have opened all the presents and filled ourselves up to bursting with the traditional turkey and stuffing it is customary for all the family to sit round the television to watch a christmas movie. There have been lots of fine seasonal films made during the years that have given us loads of fun and enjoyment … and sad ones too … so I thought that I list some of my all time favourites.

Movies related to Christmas help to create a fun atmosphere and can also teach moral lessons related to Christmas. While everyone will prefer different Christmas movies, there are some that remain favourites.

Image via Wikipedia

‘A Christmas Story‘ is told from the point of view of a little boy in the days leading up  Christmas and on Christmas Day. It shows him doing routine things each day  against the backdrop of the Christmas season with the decorated store windows, Santa Claus, the snow and frostiness, and of course his wish for a Christmas toy. But his parents disapprove of the toy that he desired. The movie is good in showing the innocence of the Christmas season.

‘A Christmas Carol,’ written by noted author Charles Dickens, tells the story of old Scrooge whose only purpose in life is to make money. Scrooge puts making money above his family, friends and everyone who cares about him. His response to Christmas is a grumpy, ‘Bah Humbug.’ He gets a different experience however, when ghosts appear to him and try to point out the error of his ways. The movie’s lesson is about the importance of appreciating people in your life.

‘It’s A Wonderful Life’ is a story about hope and the worthiness of everyone. It tells the story of a man experiencing despair and self-destruction because he thinks he is of no worth to those around him, and they would be better off if he didn’t exist. An angel grants him his desire and he gets to see what he contributes and what life would be like without him.

Every Christmas, ‘A Miracle on 34th Street’ can be seen on television. It asks and answers the question ‘Is there really a Santa Claus?’ The movie is about a man who claims to be Kris Kringle, or Santa Claus, but is not believed and so he has to prove his identity claim.

‘National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation‘ is about the Griswold family with Mr. Griswold, played by Chevy Chase, getting into silly accidents that provide a lot of humor. The movie shows the lives of the family as they celebrate Christmas and the difficulties that arise when their entire family comes to visit for Christmas.

‘Home Alone’ is about a large and chaotic family with lots of kids who are going on Christmas vacation. Amid the chaos of leaving on the morning of the trip, one child is left behind and must stay and fend for himself in a very large house during the Christmas season. At first he was happy to be alone but then two thieves break in and he has to fight them off. The movie shows the importance of family and loved ones.

A sequel, ‘Home Alone 2: Lost in New York‘ tells of the boy who was left alone going to an aunt and uncle’s home and again encountering the two thieves who are seeking revenge.

‘How The Grinch Stole Christmas’ was first made as an animation for television but other versions have since been done as motion pictures. The Grinch is a grouchy, green man who lives in the mountains above the small town of Whoville where residents, called The Whos, celebrate Christmas enthusiastically every year. The Grinch who doesn’t like Christmas wants to spoil it for Whoville and so he tries to steal all the toys, food and gifts that The Whos have accumulated for Christmas. The movie provides a lesson on the true meaning of Christmas.

‘A Charlie Brown Christmas‘ is an animated television movie about the popular Peanuts comic strip. The movie is about the comic strip’s main character, Charlie Brown, and tells of the experience with his friends for Christmas. It also has Biblical references that relates to the true meaning of Christmas.

‘Frosty The Snowman‘ is an animated story about a snowman, named Frosty, that comes to life and who must avoid a greedy musician who is trying to get the magic that brought Frosty to life. The movie is very funny and has lots of wonderful songs.

‘Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer‘ is also an animation about the reindeer with a shiny nose that kisses a pretty girl and also helps out his friends.

So there you have it guys, some of my favourite Christmas movies. If you are lucky enough to see any or even all of them, please enjoy.

Get your christmas card HERE!

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Wedding Videography

Hello again people,

I attended the wedding of my friend last week, I was actually playing the bagpipes at the ceremony. I was amazed at the number of photographs that were taken of the whole event. I happened to ask him afterwords if the official photographer was expensive, his reply cannot be printed here as children and those of a nervious disposition may read this.

The fact is that photography has become so easy in this digital age. So I did a little research and came up with the following report for all you budding DIY photographers. Enjoy.

Image by Movieing Memories via Flickr

Aside from paintings and photographs in events such as weddings, videos have been considered as one of the most interesting visual means of communication there is. This is the reason why more and more people are getting into wedding videography—whether as a form of business or a hobby.

Wedding videography has become a viable source of income through the years because one just need to have a reliable equipment and an eye for documentation in order to come up with a start up business. But, with the competitions that arise every year, wedding videography has become more technical and complicated.

Seasoned wedding videographers, those who have made a name for themselves because of their expertise in the craft, want to share their knowledge to the new breed of wedding videographers by conducting videography classes.

Class Basics

After discovering the beauty of videography, more and more people became interested in the craft, devoted their time in discovering and rediscovering its major components, and became self-taught videographers.

Since not everyone does have enough time and will to learn everything on their own, they often resort to attending videography classes to gain or improve their knowledge in the craft. But before enrolling into any videography class, you must decide first what kind of videography that you would want to explore and things you can expect from that class.

If you have chosen wedding videography since it’s one of the most popular these days, you should prepare for the things that you will learn.

The video camera. Essentially, a video camera is the primary medium used for this craft. The camera, unlike before which uses traditional film and lenses, has become more modern in its options. Now, there are actually newer brands and models of video cameras that could achieve great results.

Wedding videography terms and other equipment basics. These are very important so you will know how to actually use and maximize the potentials of your equipment. Understanding the terms is also important so it will be easier for you to communicate with your co-videographers.

Videography theories and application. Although these are not really necessary, it would pay to know at least the history of wedding videography, the current trends and where is it going in the future. Knowing all these will help you in the future if you want to establish your very own wedding videography business.

Outdoor and indoor activities are also expected. This will serve as the hands-on or the practical applications of what you have learned in the class.

The styles and tips in shooting different video like framing and composing the subject, and what to capture are taught. These will help you because you will get first hand tips from those who have been successful in wedding videography.

Equipment health, protection, and caring tips. These are very important because if you are planning to offer wedding videography services for a long time, you should protect your investments very well.

Before the class starts

If you’re planning to enroll in a wedding videography class, make sure that you peruse the syllabus or course outline so you can come up with a list of expectations. You may also ask people who have enrolled in videography classes before and ask about their experience so you’ll have an idea what goes on.

If you don’t have enough time right now to attend wedding videography classes on an actual classroom, you can also opt for online videography classes that are available in the Internet.

Gillespie Engineering

Image by Wessex Archaeology via Flickr

Hi Guys,

I’d just like to say hello to my colleague Keith Gillespie who has worked very hard to establish his company which provides a wide range of services to the Civil  Engineering industry. Gillespie Engineering is basically a one man band and it is a credit to Keith himself that  the business continues to flourish. So keep up the good work Keith and I wish you continued success in 2012.

Click Here to find out more!

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Kids Love Aquarium Fishes

Fishes are Perfect Pets for Small Kids

Fishes could be an amazing household pet. Among all the animals, they are the easiest to care for plus they don’t really take so much room. However, most kids lose their interest in fishes rather fast especially those children who want to have a pet which they can cuddle up with. They tend to be a bore for kids who are active and always on the go. That must be the reason why not too many would ask for a school of fish. Nonetheless, fishes can be the perfect pet.

Sensible Choice

Image via Wikipedia

Whenever parents think of granting their little kids’ plea for a pet, most often the choice is to give them a fish. Even with the little care it requires, they could still teach them how to be responsible in taking care of a living thing. Having a pet fish would instill in them the value of love and acceptance of simplicity.

Parents really have a great deal of accountability when it comes to introducing a pet to a child. They have to keep in mind the child’s well being and that of the pet. With fishes there is less threat to the child’s safety. It is ideal especially for a kid who easily gets tired of new things and just wants it for the novelty of having one. This would save the parents a lot of trouble in the long run since more often than not; it is them who are burdened with the duty once their child bails out.

Basic Rules

There are only a few things to remember in taking care of them. The rules are very basic and could easily be followed by little children. One, do not dump anything in the fish tank. Two, do not take the fish out of the water. Also, they need a minimal amount of day to day and weekly care. All you have to do is feed them adequately and clean the fish tank at least once a week. Keeping an aquarium of fish can be educational and an enjoyable experience.

First, consider the size of the tank that will be adequate for the fish to swim freely. The aquarium’s size will determine the number and kind of fish that you would get for the child. Second, think of the best place in your home where you can put the fish tank. Make sure that the stand serves as a good foundation will support the aquarium and in the right height so the child will have no difficulty reaching the brim during feeding time. Put it away from busy traffic to prevent it from being collided into. Place it where there is enough sunlight and ventilation. This would prevent mosquitoes from plaguing the area. However, placing it near a window where there too much sunlight would cause the water to turn green easily. When this happens, you will need to change the water more often. If there is no other place, you can solve the problem by covering the window with curtains.

After everything is set, teach your child the right amount of feeding. Overfeeding will result in the fishes’ death. Be sure that the child is under supervision when he or she does the feeding. Cleaning the tank could also be a time for the parent and child to bond. You will have to do it but have your kid assist you. No matter how simple it may seem, the goal of turning your child into a responsible person could still be achieved. Thus, fishes could possibly be the perfect pet for your kids.

Interested In Fish Keeping? Get Your FREE e Book Here!

Get More Fish Stuff Here!

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Setting Up Your Own Aquarium

Image via Wikipedia

Hello again Guys – I was visiting some friends the other night and something in the corner of their lounge caught my eye. It was fascinating to watch, I was completely transfixed. As you’ve probably guessed, it was their fish aquarium. It was so graceful and eyecatching that I stared at it for what seemed hours although it was only a few minutes.

Watching the fish gliding inside an aquarium makes your mind relax. Much more if it is well designed, maybe something that looks like a real habitat underworld. Setting up one can be a great idea for your family.

An aquarium can be best fitted in any corner of your room, provided that it is unreachable by your kids unless with your supervision. It can add exquisiteness to your surroundings and a more soothing ambiance.

However, considering some important factors can be better while setting up an aquarium. You have to purchase an array of aquarium supplies in order to create a place for your fish to live in.

Here are some of the supplies that you have to take note:

1. Type of fish

This is a prior consideration because it will determine the kind of aquarium that you will put up whether it is freshwater, saltwater aquarium, or warm water aquarium. Tropical fish for instance necessitates warm water that will require you a heater. Each kind of aquarium set up has distinct needs and expenses that you will incur when purchasing the supplies.

2. Tank

If you are novice, you can begin with smaller size of aquarium and a ten-gallon tank will probably do. This is another determinant of the kind of fish that you will place in your aquarium. A variety of type can be chosen if you have larger tanks.

3. Heater

It is necessary for tropical fish because you have to maintain warm temperature of water. This is the kind of habitat where they can survive.

4. Filter

Since you cannot prevent some falling debris inside your aquarium, you have to make use of filters to keep it clean at all times. Cleanliness is crucial because this will make your fish stay healthy inside an aquarium.

5. Gravel and rocks

Image by Daves Portfolio via Flickr

All of these components will add an underworld effect to your aquarium. Be sure to clean them properly before you place the said supplies to the water.

6. Pump

Pump is one of the basic requirements for your aquarium because the life of the fish inside it will depend on the pump. It s their aid for breathing

7. Water Testing kit

Utilizing one will help you to gauge the ph level inside your aquarium.

8. Lighting

In order to remove dullness inside the aquarium, you need to put some lighting. Too much lighting effects will not be good as well.

After you make yourself ready with the aquarium supply, then you can put up your own.

Interested In Fish Keeping? Get Your FREE e Book Here!

 

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Extravagant Victorian Architecture

Put your tools down, have a coffee and do a little light reading.

Image via Wikipedia

The Carson mansion is one of the most wonderful examples of beautiful architecture. You will find that it is also one of the best examples of Victorian architecture. It has about 18 rooms and was constructed about the late 1800’s. When it was built, it cost about $80,000, which is an incredible amount of money for the time period.

It is a mix of every major style of Victorian Architecture and is the most written about, most photographed house in California, possibly the U.S.

A lot of people understand why it is known as the Victorian style. A lot of people realize that it is named after the English queen, Queen Victoria. This is the building period that also overlaps with her reign.

These structures are highly decorated and so aptly nicknamed Gingerbread houses for all of their pieces and gingerbread type scroll work and ornamentation.

For those who are interested in this building period, you’ll find that Toedo, Ohio is one of the most well known areas for Victorian building. Boston is noted in the National Register of Historic Places as having the oldest Victorian neighborhood in the U.S.

But of course, the U.S. isn’t the only place where these intricate creations of Victorian Architecture can be found. There are tons of era cities that offer notable Victorian era designs. London, Glasgow, Melbourne, and even New Orleans has become on of the most highly notable places.

When it comes to typical architecture of Victorian era the fact is that it is functional, but it is also mysterious. You will want to keep in mind that there is a lot of delicate and detailed woodwork that is also known for having a grand color in schemes. You will want to keep in mind that with exterior and interior design everything looks very warm and inviting. With the large rooms, they are very welcoming and also the beautiful.

Get all your DIY stuff here!

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Property Wall Inspection

Image by TinaSea via Flickr

If you are seeing some cracks on your walls, there is no need to panic. This can have no significance at all. However, there are some that can signify that you are experiencing a big structural defect. If this is the case, then you would have to do the appropriate action for the case. This is why proper evaluation should be done.

Noticing The Problem

Most often, cracked foundation walls are given attention when a property is being sold in the market. Even though the owner would insist that the cracked wall has been like that “forever”, the buyer has a tendency to become concerned about the situation.

Whether you are a buyer, seller, or some one who is simply concerned about their wall, here are some important points on evaluating your wall if it needs repair or not.

Causes And Factors Of Wall Cracking

Foundation walls that are built using concrete blocks are much predisposed to having cracks than solid concrete walls. This is especially true if an 8-inch block was used for the block wall.

Of course, foundation walls should support a building’s the vertical weight. Plus, if its around a full basement, it should be able to resist lateral or inward pressure from the soil outside that are against the wall. If water saturates the backfill or soil, then the inward pressure could easily overload your block wall, which can result into cracks.

Additionally, roots of large and moderate sized trees that are near your foundation wall can also cause you major wall problems. Most of the time, roots grow toward your walls due to the water accumulation along it.

Seeing The Signs

Horizontal cracks on mortar joints are usually caused by too much inward pressure against its block foundation. If you see a horizontal crack that is about high as half of the wall, then this can be one sign of too much lateral pressure from the soil. Sometimes, you may also find some step cracks or short and small horizontal and vertical cracks near the end of a wall. This too is a variation of soil pressure cracks.

When To Be Alarmed

Usually, block foundation walls can remain cracked for about a number of years without any noticeable cracking additions or inward bulging. But, the moment you get a horizontal crack, your wall’s structural integrity is very much reduced. Additionally, if the soil backfill is saturated, especially during rainy days, the number of cracks could increase or, worse comes to worst; your wall foundation can collapse.

Solution Choices

Problems like these are possible to be permanently repaired. In fact, there are methods in which you do not need to have a complete replacement, provided that the inward movement doesn’t exceed one inch in relation to the bottom of the wall. You can usually find the maximum inward deflection where the horizontal crack is and near its mid-height.

One method you can do is bracing your wall with reinforced block piers or steel post-braces. However, if you are concerned with the cost, you may want to go for steel post-braces since they are less expensive than the other. However, if it is the overall look you are after, then you may want to use piers since they can give a better finished appearance.

CLICK HERE NOW for all your DIY tools!

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Squeak Be Gone Remedies!

Squeaking doors can be a really irritating problem. Although many would consider it to be a major problem, it isn’t! In fact, it’s a minor house

Image via Wikipedia

problem that even you yourself can fix, and here’s how to.

Stop, Look And Listen

First, you should know where that squeaking sound is coming from. You can do this by stopping, looking and listening carefully. You should perform the “swing test” first before you go off buying a whole new door.

Start off by making sure that your surroundings is quiet. Then, you should stand on the side of the door in which you remember that the squeak was loudest. When you’re in position already, swing the door in a gentle manner, covering its complete arc. Do this action repeatedly and try to vary the speed while doing so.

While swinging the door, you should take note of some factors. Try to note exactly where the squeak comes from. Then try to note when it is loudest. See whether it is loudest when you swing the door fast or slow. Then lastly, find out why exactly the squeak is happening. Finding out why is a very crucial factor, since this dictates what remedy you should use.

Two General Remedies

Once you’ve determined where the squeaks are, you can do two general remedies. First, tighten all the screws in the hinges. Then, get a flat-headed screwdriver. Carefully tap its blade in between the hinge body and the hinge-pin head to separate them.

After doing this, get a 3-in-1 sewing machine oil and squeeze in a few drops of it into the small space between the pin-head and the hinge body. If you don’t have sewing-machine oil, you can also use a WD-40, and spray some into the same space.

By applying some lubricant in the space, you enable the lubricant to seep in into the remaining length of the pin, which is inside the hinge body. Thus, you give the best lubrication coverage that you can give for the hinge.

Doing this would generally resolve your squeaking problems-if you were accurate on determining the source, that is. However, if you pinpointed the wrong source, then most probably your squeak would still be there.

All Hope Is Not Lost

If you pinpointed the wrong source of the squeak, don’t worry then! By this point in time, you have determined that the hinges are not the problem. Then, most probably it’s a wood on wood kind of squeak problem.

To solve this kind of squeak, you would have to do the squeak test again. After which, you have to release the bind, since the problem may be the hinge binding on the wood. While performing the swing test, heed on how the door’s hinge-side settles into the door-jamb. Also, take note of how it makes a final contact with your door-stop.

This is when stop, look and listen wouldn’t be enough, since you would have to make use of touch. If you feel that it has springy feel, when the door is approximately in the closed position, odds are very good that it is hinge-bound. This can be the cause of the squeak since the door is forced to rub with the jamb material. To repair this kind of problem, you need to remove your door by removing the screws on the hinges’ jamb side and leaving the hinges intact with the door itself. Then, you need to chisel out some hinge recesses towards the direction of the hinge barrel. Then, reinstall the door and perform the swing test again.

If this doesn’t solve your problem, try chiseling out more recess. It can be a trial and error process. However, it can be fixed.

 

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Repairing Pipe Leaks On Your Own

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Leaking pipes, no matter how big or small it is can create extreme changes on your water bills, negative changes to be specific. However, fixing minor leaks is actually easy and is something that you can manage to do without calling a plumber. Here are some ways on how you can repair pipe leaks by yourself.

Fixing Leaks Through Tape

This is considered to be the easiest and cheapest way that anyone can do to fix small pipe leaks. All the material you would need is an electrical or duct tape. The basic principle here is that you should cover the leak using the tape. To effectively stop the leak, you should start wrapping the tape before the leak itself on your water pipe. Wrap in a diagonal manner around the pipe until you have covered the entire leaking area and a small portion extending before and after it.

Fixing Leaks By Epoxy

This method is best used if your leaking problem is situated at pipe fittings and joints. You can get epoxy from your local hardware store. First off, you should cut off the water supply. Then you need to drain all the water from the pipes. Water purging can be done by letting the faucet run, until no more water comes out.

After purging the water, dry out the pipes and clean it using steel wool. Make sure that the pipes are dry and clean, since applying epoxy on a wet pipe can give unpleasant results. If you are sure, then apply the epoxy and let it dry. Refer to the epoxy’s packaging on how long you should let it stand to dry up. Avoid using the pipe line if the epoxy is still wet.

Fix Leaks Through A Pipe Clamp

You can use pipe clamp to fix your leaks. However, you should buy a clamp that has the right size to fit your leaking pipe. Once you have purchased a clamp, clean out your pipe. Be careful in cleaning it, and make sure that you do this well. Wrap your pipe in a rubber pad which should be placed over the area where the leak is

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How To Construct Your Own Backyard Fish Pond

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Homes with waterfront views and accents are admired by many. This is because being around water offers a feeling of beauty, allure, and serenity. Putting up your own water accent in your backyard, such as a fish pond, will also add that visual appeal. Make your yard alive with the soothing sounds of water in motion. Make your fish pond the focal point of your backyard.

However, there are some considerations before constructing one:

Climate

Consider the climate of your area. If your weather experiences winter times, then it is best if you make you fish pond deeper since the fish tend to hibernate at the bottom of the pond and naturally stop eating when the water temperature goes below 45 degrees.

If you live in a location where the pond will completely freeze over, it is imperative that a hole be created in the ice to help the fish remain alive. In this case, aquatic plants should be removed and placed indoors since they may not survive the cold temperature.

Filter

Consider the filtration system of your pond. There is what you call natural filtration where it is provided by the action of the moving water. If this is the case, considering the design of your system and the climate of your area, then you do not need a filter for the pond.

However, to know what is best for your pond, consult a pond professional concerning filtration. There are cartridge filters and biological filters available from shops that provide pond supplies.

Now, to get your backyard pond started:

First step. Make intelligent decisions by educating yourself.

Do not push through water gardening or pond building without knowing the essentials about it. Know what equipment are needed to be used. Find out if your yard is appropriate to hold such an accent. Is the climate compatible with your pond? Are you up for the regular maintenance it needs? Take into consideration the availability of supplies such as electricity, filtration, and water. Decide what type of pond are you willing to make, is it a small one? Or a large one?

Second step. Decide on the location of your pond.

Locate your pond in an area where the sun will be able to shine on it. Do not place it under the trees since it will cause a cleaning nightmare due to the falling leaves. Do not place your pond where runoff water tends to overflow. These will accumulate in your pond making it dirty and murky.

Determine the depth of your pond. The average depth of a back yard pond is between 18″ to 24″ usually. Make the outline of your pond and start digging it. Make steps in order to provide easy access to the pond during cleaning. These steps will also be perfect for holding potted plants just above the water. Make sure that the bottom is leveled as you dig.

Third step. Get hold of an appropriate sized pond liner.

In order to get the right pond liner size, take the width of your pond and add twice the depth of the pond, and then add 24 more inches. Measuring the length will be done using the similar formula. Now, drape the liner over the pond. Arrange it and place stones around the edges. Fourth step. Fill it up with water.

Start filling the pond with water. Fold large creases neatly and remove wrinkles as you fill the

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pond with water to make it less noticeable.

Fifth step. Install the needed equipment.

After filling it up with water, place filters, pumps, and lightings to the pond. Connect it to the electrical supply. Then add your fish and plants, and you are ready to go!

Enjoy!

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Plumb It Right!

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Plumbing problems are considered to be one of the major problems that each household can experience at least once in a lifetime. Although most would opt to call a professional plumber to do the dirty work for them, most plumbing repairs are actually minor ones that even you can do without having to pay a plumber some notable amount of cash.

Be Vigilant

One way to fix major plumbing problems is by prevention. Keeping a sharp eye for sluggish or slow drains is the key. It is way much easier to fix and unclog a slow drain than opening one that has wholly stopped from functioning.

If your drain is slow, you can fix this by simply pouring scalding water down the pipe. Do this to loosen any grease buildup. Additionally, you should clean the drain screen or stopper. This should do the trick.

However, if it doesn’t, then try to locate the problem by checking out other household drains. Do this to know whether the clog is present in only one fixture. If it turns out that other drains are clogged, then you may have a problem with your main drain pipe. Sinking In

Fighting a sink clog automatically means getting a bathroom plunger. In picking a plunger, make sure it has a large enough suction cup that can completely cover up the drain. It should also be able to create an airtight seal around the surrounding sink.

Next, you should fill the fixture to completely cover the plunger’s suction cup. Do this by using water or coating the cup’s rim with petroleum jelly. You should create a vacuum by trying to seal off other outlets, like overflow drain in sinks. Then, push out any trapped air underneath the cup. After this, do 15 to 20 forceful up-and-down pumping blows to jerk loose the clog. It may take you three to five times of this cycle to do the trick.

Snake It Out If using the plunger doesn’t work, then you would have to resort to another technique. In this remedy, you would need to have a plumbing snake. You can get one at your local hardware. These can work their way through your drain pipes and physically push out the clogs.

Plumbing snakes are considered to be one of the most dependable tools for fixing drainage problems. All you have to do is push the snake in until you hit the clog. Once you hit the clog, hook it up by twisting your snake’s handle. After hooking it up, push your snake back and forth until you feel that the obstruction has broken up. Then, flush out the pipe using cold water. Main Drain Cleanup

If you detect that more than one of your draining fixtures is clogged up, then your main drain line may be the problem. Thus, you have to clean it up. You can start off by locating the clean-out plugs of the large drain pipes. You can find these in your crawlspace or basement.

Main drain lines can also be found in your garage or somewhere outside, along the foundations of your house. You can see that each plug has a cap on it that has a square fitting on the top. Use a wrench to remove the cap.

Make sure that you have a bucket with you to catch some dripping water. Also, be sure that nobody will use the facilities while you the main drain line is open, or else some serious problem can come your way. Once you have everything in place, use a plumbing snake to break up any obstructions in the main line by running the snake in all directions of the pipe.

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Easy Steps On Floor Tiling

Tiling is one job that most people would rather not learn how to do since it can be scary that you make some mistakes in the process. However, it is actually a lot easier than what many might think. In fact, it can save you a whole lot of money contrast to hiring a professional for the job. As long as you know the do’s and don’ts, then this task is a no-brainer for you.

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Choosing Your Tiles

To start off, you have to choose the tiles that you want to use. You may get surprised with the number of variety choices when doing this. Tiles may come in different sizes, colors, textures, materials and finishes. There are times that you may encounter tiles with odd sizes. This is done on purpose by companies so that you would have to buy extra.

Choosing a tile highly depends on you. It can also depend on how you want the room to be and the over all design and feel of the room.

Measurements And Computations

You also need to measure out your floor area. You also have to deliberate on whether you want the tiles to go under any kind of fittings and units. Generally, it is better if you tile under the fittings. This is because if you would have to move appliances in the future, like a fridge, then you do not have to lift it up over the edge of your new tiles.

When you have chosen what kind of tile you want to use, you need to do some computations. You have to get your floor’s width and divide it by the width of one tile. This is to know the number of complete rows that you’ll have. Also, this can help you decide the optimal wall edge to place your cut tiles against.

Application

After doing the math, you can now start applying tiles on your floor. Be sure that you have an even coverage of adhesive placed on your sub-floor. The type of adhesive to use would depend on your sub-floor or the surface you are tiling. If it is a concrete floor, then you can use a rapid setting adhesive. However, be sure that you do not spread too much of the mixture at once, since it can set as fast as 30 minutes.

If it is a wooden sub-floor, then you need a flexible adhesive. You can know if an adhesive if flexible if it is written on the bag or the tub. If you have slate, then you need to use gray adhesive. If you’ll be having marble, then you need a white adhesive. This is so that no color coming from the underside would bleed and ruin your design.

Grouting

When you are done fixing your tiles on the floor, and after you have allowed enough time for it to dry, then you would have to do some grouting. If you have natural tiles, like marble, slate, limestone, granite, travertine, and porcelain, you need to seal them first before you can grout them. You have to use a specialized impregnating sealer so that they will be waterproof and can be more resistant to dirt and staining.

Mix up the grout and apply it using a grout float to your tiles. Try to work over the gaps until they’re all filled. If you have white marble tiles, then you need to use a white grout instead of gray since the gray kind can stain the marble.

To finish off, wipe out the excess grouts that are bulging from your tiles using a sponge. Also, use a grout finisher or your finger to smooth out the grout lines. After this, stand back, relax and chill while you wait for your work to dry up!

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Easy Do-It-Yourself Paint Repairs

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Paint is considered to be the clothes of your house. Although paint problems may look ugly and major, you can actually be saved from the obligation of calling a professional painter and spending huge amounts of money on them. You yourself can be your very own Picasso in doing paint retouches of your house.

Break Down

All kinds of paint, whatever brand it may be, can only last for a specified number of years on your wall, before the break down process starts showing. When you are experiencing paint break down, it basically means that the first or primary layer on the surface is weakening.

This problem is commonly experienced in old houses that have several paint layers. When the break down process starts, paint will start cracking and peeling from your wall or your wood surface. Because of this, your wood or drywall will be exposed.

To fix this, try scraping or pressure washing your surface. After that, fill any holes using putty if it is wood or spackle if it is a wall surface. After filling in, get a sand paper and fine sand the surface.

When you’re done, wipe of the dust and let it completely dry. Basically, when you pressure wash or when it is raining, 24 hours should be allotted for the surface to dry. Once you’re sure that it is dry, and then you can start painting.

Moisture Build-Up

Another cause of paint cracking is moisture build-up, leak or excessive condensation.

Most probably, you can find mildew and mold along with this problem. This kind of problem is often experienced in the bathroom. However, it can also occur in other parts of the house because of leaky roofs and close outdoor shrubs. Your paint can sag down due to the moisture. But in this case, you won’t see any chipping debris.

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