tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49611327231483583252024-03-05T07:44:02.684-08:00Have Assignment, Will WriteKellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.comBlogger117125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-26750926197498232612016-05-12T08:29:00.001-07:002016-05-12T08:29:24.496-07:00Beware, Another FBI Email Spam ScamIt seems the Kings of Nigeria are working overtime in their nefarious pursuits of your money. These jokers are not quite clever by half. Their command of the English language in their emails is spotty at best.<br />
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Still, they operate on a shotgun approach. They send out thousands of emails knowing that they will reel in at least a handful of gullible victims. The emails are boilerplate in form but there are a variety of them.<br />
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One that I have seen over the years is the "FBI Warning" type and it is seeming to be making a comeback; I suppose it is its turn in rotation. Following is the text of the variation I received this morning:<br />
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"This e-mail has been issued to you in order to Officially inform you that we have completed an investigation on an International Payment in which was issued to you by World Bank. With the help of our newly <span style="font-family: inherit;">develope</span>d technology (International Monitoring Network System) we discovered that you were not able to complete your transfer because of the amount involved. During our investigation we discovered that your fund is still available and we have authorized the fund to be paid to you via a Certified Cashier's Check, ATM or Via Wire Transfer.
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<pre style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: monospace; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: auto; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap !important; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px;"> </pre>
<pre style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap ! important; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You were asked to provide Anti-Terrorism and Anti-Drug Certificate which you never did and that has led to suggestion that you might be sponsoring Terrorism nor Drug.On that note We urge you to open the attached file named YOUR FILE and then click RUN to view which will give you access to your file as we need to confirm you have the correct information for the claim.
We therefore urge you to open the attached file named winning number and then click RUN to view which you would find inside the transfer/delivery time attached.The file is encrypted so you need not worry.
I want you to proceed now and open the attached file name YOUR FILE then click on RUN to view your transfer details pr delivery time.Attached is your FILE."</span></span></b></pre>
<pre style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap ! important; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span></b></pre>
<pre style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap ! important; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></span></b></pre>
<pre style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap ! important; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span></b></pre>
<pre style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap ! important; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You might be surprised at how many people get taken in by this scam. The important take-away is that you <i>never</i> want to click on any attachment; this opens you up to any number of viruses and malware.</span></span></b></pre>
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KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-24490128430016930312016-02-20T06:55:00.001-08:002016-02-20T06:55:29.086-08:00Comfort Food for Winter NightsThere's nothing better than comfort food to make you feel grounded, especially in the winter. The preparation need not be complicated or expensive. One of my favorites is homemade <a href="http://www.the-green-frugal.com/FoodCooking/Mozzarella_Mac_and_Cheese_Recipe.html" target="_blank">Mozzarella Mac and Cheese</a>.<br />
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Believe me, this is one hundred times better than anything out of a box. I made it for the family last night and the only drawback is that my garden was out of basil. Plenty of cilantro and rosemary but no basil. I'll have to plan my spring herb garden a little better.<br />
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I'm also a big fan of soup and stew; it's a good way to use up the leftovers. I love leftovers; my daughter considers them "used food." I don't agree but you have to admit there's something clever in the analysis.<br />
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Another of my favorites is <a href="http://www.the-green-frugal.com/FoodCooking/Homemade_Quinoa_Whole_Wheat_Bread_Recipe.html" target="_blank">homemade bread</a>. When I first began baking bread years ago it was quite a tedious process. Then I learned about fast-rising yeast. I also like baking sourdough bread but it takes a bit of commitment because if you don't refresh the starter frequently it will go bad on you.<br />
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Here's a tip -- you don't have to buy an expensive sourdough starter. You can make your own with flour and water. Just be sure to use whole wheat flour because it still has wild yeast in it. That processed white flour is just wrong.<br />
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Happy cooking and stay warm!KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-82076960053110729742016-02-12T09:33:00.000-08:002016-02-12T09:33:01.258-08:00How to Choose the Right Type of Carpet for Your HomeOne of the basic facts of home ownership is that flooring doesn't last forever, particularly carpet. It gets stained, it acquires wear patterns (much like the path in the grass in the back yard that Fido wears on his favorite route). Sometimes we simply want a different look when the current style looks dated.<br />
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This means choosing a replacement and then having it installed. There are many <a href="http://icanfixupmyhome.com/What_Kind_of_Carpet_is_Right_for_Your_Home.html" target="_blank">home carpet choices</a> considering color, pattern, pile, and so much more. The problem is that the salesman will likely tout price differences and current sales. There is so much more that you should know about the different <i>types</i> before writing that check. Let's look at a few, shall we?<br />
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<li><b>Berber</b>. This carpet is made from wool, nylon, or olefin (a synthetic fiber made from a polyolefin). This is a looped carpet that has is known for being long-wearing and durable. One con is that because berber is looped it stands a high chance of snagging. For this reason, don't install it on stair treads.</li>
<li><b>Plush carpeting</b>. Plush is a good choice for your children's rooms. Why? There are two good reasons. First, the loops have been cut so that the chance of snagging and tripping is low. Second, the consequences of a fall are minimized because plush is so forgiving. It also works well in high traffic areas since it is so durable.</li>
<li><b>Frieze and Saxony</b>. These are described as patterned and textured. The way patterns are created is interesting. The loops are either cut or left intact, giving a slightly different appearance. Texture, on the other hand, presents what might be described as the illusion of a pattern. It does this by mingling different kinds of loops throughout the carpet surface. These carpets are durable and generally work well in family rooms, living rooms, and bedrooms.</li>
<li><b>Shag carpeting</b>. Sooooo 60s. Only install this if you are a nostalgic hippie or if your intent is to deliberately reduce the equity in your home. </li>
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With all this information in mind, it's easy to see that it might not be a good idea to install the same type of carpeting throughout your home. A good strategy when shopping is to first look at room-specific functionality, next price, and finally, color and pattern. And of course, after making your selection, it never hurts to haggle over installation cost.<br />
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KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-64755910667655811282016-02-11T10:15:00.000-08:002016-02-11T10:15:14.722-08:00Why is Ford Moving Production to Mexico?You might have noticed in the news recently that Ford is planning to open a large production factory in Mexico. That is where they will build the models that cost less than the most expensive ones. The knee-jerk reaction to this news is, "Big business is greedy! Corporate vultures! Unpatriotic boardroom vultures!"<br />
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But wait -- dig deeper to discover the reason why this decision was made. It turns out to be <i>union worker greed</i>. No, no; we're not union-bashing here. Just look at the facts. They just negotiated a new contract that made most production here in the USA financially untenable. And in doing so, they consigned a huge number of their union brothers to unemployment. Union brothers who have families, medical bills, and <a href="http://www.the-green-frugal.com/FamilyParenting/Home_Affordable_Refinance_Program_HARP.html" target="_blank">mortgages</a>.<br />
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What the union needs is a healthy dose of reality. They were already among the highest paid laborers in the country before the new contract with some of the best benefits in the work force. Now they've killed the goose that lays the golden egg. And, further strained an already bloated unemployment and food stamp system.<br />
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No company in any sector of the economy can survive if they can't compete in their market niche. But wait, you say, they can still compete because GM and Chrysler will be affected too, right? While that is true, low cost imports also figure into the competition equation. Staying here in the US would be suicide. With the economy the way it is, buyers might want bling but the bottom line is what they can afford. So the move was inevitable.<br />
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This will all be a bit transparent to <a href="http://www.the-green-frugal.com/FamilyParenting/How_to_Save_Money_When_Buying_a_New_or_Used_Car.html" target="_blank">new car buyers</a> because now they can buy a Mexican Ford for roughly the same price they would have paid pre-contract. The difference is that a Mexican worker will be feeding his family whereas an American will not. Thank you, union.KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-80145610222513666592016-02-09T07:26:00.000-08:002016-02-09T07:26:52.818-08:00Save Money when RemodelingAs those income tax refunds start rolling in many homeowners will be tackling remodeling projects. One of the primary things to consider is your budget. Many jobs have to be farmed out to local contractors and service companies due to licensing and code requirements. <a href="http://www.kqzyfj.com/click-5324619-10461307-1445445342000" target="_blank">Learn more.</a><img border="0" src="http://www.ftjcfx.com/image-5324619-10461307-1445445342000" height="1" width="1" /> But the good news is that there are many parts of the job that you can do yourself. Here's a few.<br />
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<a href="http://icanfixupmyhome.com/DrywallTexturingMadeEZ.html" target="_blank">Drywall texturing</a> is a good example. This need not be a difficult or expensive job. In fact, for some techniques you don't even need specialized equipment like a compressor and a hopper. Perhaps the simplest method only requires a paint pan and paint roller. Which brings us to our next topic.<br />
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Be your own <a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/BeYourOwnPaintContractor.html" target="_blank">painting contractor</a>. Many people find painting (both interior and exterior) to be a tedious business but it doesn't have to be. Straightforward painting is typically what you get with most remodels and new construction. But did you know that it's easy to do specialty finishes like faux finishes for a fraction of the cost that a contractor would charge?<br />
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Some flooring projects are well within the reach of the average DIY enthusiast. It's easy enough to pull up old carpeting and padding. It's usually a dusty job but hey, if you're saving money, what's not to like?<br />
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Probably the easiest kind of new flooring to install is laminate flooring that simply snaps together. Layout is very easy. Next up on the difficulty scale is tile. Layout is a bit more difficult and one specialty tool you'll need is a wet saw. You might never need it again but you can rent one on a daily basis.<br />
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For more information on these and many more home improvement topics and projects, please check out <a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/" target="_blank">I Can Fix Up My Home</a>. Not only will you learn how to complete projects yourself but you can learn about what is involved on those parts of the job you are hiring a contractor for. Prior knowledge before getting a bid is always a good thing.<br />
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<a href="http://www.pntra.com/t/R0BISUhLS0BERUdLTEBJSUlKRg"><img alt="468x60" border="0" src="http://www.pntra.com/b/R0BISUhLS0BERUdLTEBJSUlKRg" height="60" title="468x60" width="468" /></a>KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-52882064838327468452016-01-28T14:10:00.000-08:002016-01-28T14:11:40.857-08:00Chill Out but Say Warm this WinterFor most of us in the northern hemisphere, winter weather can be a very serious business. At the core of our concerns is the ability to keep our homes heated and our families comfortable. We can eat canned food and drink bottled water but when the temperature drops we must be prepared.<br />
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The biggest issue for many of us is what to do when our central heat goes out due to a loss of electricity or gas. It behooves us to have a redundant system, which can either be used as a primary system during extreme temperature drops because of lower energy costs or a back-up during a fuel supply failure. Let's look at a few options.<br />
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<li><b>Pellet Stoves and Furnaces</b>. These units are becoming increasingly popular. <a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/Benefits_of_the_Eco_Friendly_Pellet_Stove_or_Furnace.html" target="_blank">Pellet stoves</a> can effectively heat your home using pellets made from scrap wood so burning this fuel saves items like scrap pallets from going to the landfill. Economy and eco-friendly; win-win.</li>
<li><b>Convectional fireplaces</b>. Certainly, in many modern homes fireplaces are just decorative fixtures and not often used as long as the central HVAC heater is performing up to par. But in a pinch we can always return to the good sense that our forefathers had. Keep some logs or fire-logs in the garage. And keep the bear-skin rug handy.</li>
<li><b>Three Dog Night</b>. Yes, the speculation never ends to whether the name of this popular 60s band was based in the (Eskimo?) tradition of having your dogs sharing your bed for body heat. Regardless of how you think about bunking with Fido, in this case he or she can be your greatest friend. And, what a bonding opportunity!</li>
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The key to any of these solutions is being proactive. Don't be that person that waits until the last minute, standing in line at Walmart, and discovering that there are no batteries or bottled water left. Being a prepper does not make you a crazy. It makes you a reasonable person.KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-30827086562072452122009-12-22T06:34:00.000-08:002009-12-22T08:19:49.286-08:00Troubleshoot and Repair Electric Range, Oven<a target="_blank" href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=176704&u=277741&m=22034&urllink=&afftrack="><img src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/Small%20Banner.JPG" border="0" /></a>
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<br />I received a frantic email from a reader on Thanksgiving Day. It was from a lady whose oven had stopped working. It turns out that it was just the bottom oven heating element that had gone south.
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<br />That one is an easy fix since most heating elements are plug and play. That's the good news. The bad news is that I doubt she could find one on Thanksgiving Day in time to cook Big Bird. Also, they can be hard to find sometimes since there are so many models. The search box below is the one I use to find hard to find replacement appliance parts.
<br /><form name="shareasale" target="Blank" action="http://www.shareasale.com/m-formredirect.cfm" method="POST">
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<br /></tbody></table></form>As long as you have a few basic tools, it's actually easy to <a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/How_To_Troubleshoot_Repair_Electric_Range.html">troubleshoot an electric range</a>. Of course, there's the electricity to beware of (that's my disclaimer) but other than that, it's fairly straightforward.
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<br />I've got a Maytag oven myself. I bought it when Maytag was it's own company and they still made quality appliances. They make shabby goods now and forget about getting service in a timely manner. Oh Maytag repair man, where have you gone?
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<br />Other appliances are a bit more complex. <a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/How_To_Troubleshoot_Repair_Refrigerator.html">Refrigerator troubleshooting</a>, for example, involves compressors and refrigerant. Some of this work requires a license. But there are still many things a homeowner can repair.
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<br />The bottom line is that it sometimes pays off and saves money to try to repair appliances yourself.
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<br /></form>KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-77996544582231220672009-12-09T04:51:00.000-08:002009-12-09T05:57:18.247-08:00Don't be Like Tiger Woods<a target="_blank" href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=142173&u=277741&m=17395&urllink=&afftrack="><img src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/FreeCalendar_AnimatedV01a468X60.gif" alt="PackageFromSanta.com" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The news has been crazy about Tiger Woods' infidelity "issues". So what is it, just too tempting since he has all the bucks and these bimbos have a way at putting themselves in his path? I mean, it's not that his wife is hard to look at.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Could it be the Bill Clinton Syndrome?</span><br /><br /><a href="http://www.exitjunction.com/index.jsp?ref=3125"><img src="http://www.exitjunction.com/banners/ej_125x125.gif" alt="ExitJunction.com - Make Money From Your Exit Traffic!" align="left" border="0" hspace="10" vspace="10" /></a>This is my theory. Sure, the money and social life have a lot to do with it, but I think it's more about what I call the Bill Clinton Syndrome (BCS). It all circles around one key concept, like a pack of vultures descending on some random carrion.<br /><br />What drives many politicians, <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-7913-Houston-Running-Fitness-Examiner">sports</a> stars, and yo-yo rappers isn't fundamentally the money, it's a power/conquest thing. It carries on it's shoulders an additional burden that grows with the power - the belief in invulnerability.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">To Be Rich <span style="font-style: italic;">and</span> Bulletproof</span><br /><br />Why else would President Bill Clinton use an intern for a human humidor in the White House and then smirk as he perjured himself? (Now, how was it you define the word "is" in Arkansas again, Bill?) Why else would that bastion or morality, Senator Barney Frank, let his boyfriend use their love-nest apartment as an office for a gay escort service? Did they really think they would get away with it? Yes, yes, and yes.<br /><br />So I don't think Tiger Woods is any different. It was all about the conquest, even if they were all bimbo gold-diggers. Conquest on the links and between the sheets. How could he <span style="font-style: italic;">think</span> he wouldn't get busted? Hello?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.pjtra.com/t/R0BESkpKRUBERUdLTEBFREdLTA"><img src="http://www.pjtra.com/b/R0BESkpKRUBERUdLTEBFREdLTA" title="BrickHouse Security 468x60" alt="BrickHouse Security 468x60" border="0" height="60" width="468" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Avoid the BCS and be Happy</span><br /><br />Sounds simple, eh? It really is for most of us. Go ahead and chase the bucks. I'm all over that. Just use commonsense and avoid the bimbos, or the boy-toys if you're a woman. And never <span style="font-weight: bold;">ever</span> be an Elmer Fudd sounding Senator who hooks up with a boyfriend who runs a gay bordello. Never.<br /><br />Interested in home improvement and woodworking?<br /><form><br /><input value="Sign up for the I Can Fix Up My Home newsletter" onclick="window.location.href='http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/signup.php'" type="BUTTON"><br /></form>KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-13703314418769022092009-11-24T10:48:00.000-08:002009-11-24T11:09:19.029-08:00Wear Your Sense of Humor on Your SleeveOr on your front or back... The fact of the matter is that <a href="http://www.2008tshirts.com/">funny t shirts</a> are not just funny; they're trendy! Long gone are the days when t shirts were just for working out or changing the oil in the car.<br /><br />Today, they're all about making a statement and maybe pushing someone's buttons while you're at it. I look forward to every political season because that seems to be when some witty entrepreneurs of the world of <a href="http://www.2008tshirts.com/">t shirts</a> really shine.<br /><br />It doesn't matter which side of the political fence you sit on, or even if you straddle it. But the t shirt industry is bigger and more competitive than ever because cash is tight all over. Go with a company like 2008tshirts.com; with over 400 designs, they've got something for everyone.<br /><br />Yep, even your grandma... Thanks to my sponsor, 2008tshirts.com; and that's no joke!KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-30801183884537809762009-11-18T08:55:00.000-08:002009-11-18T11:00:15.392-08:00Be Prepared for Home Fires this Winter<a href="http://www.pntra.com/t/R0BFSEpHTEBERUdLTEBHQ0hMSA"><img src="http://www.pntra.com/b/R0BFSEpHTEBERUdLTEBHQ0hMSA" title="Visit 24-7HomeWarranty.com Today!" alt="Visit 24-7HomeWarranty.com Today!" width="468" border="0" height="60" /></a><br /><br />It's a sad fact of life; every winter needless deaths and burned up homes happen. Why? Because we heat our homes. Heating systems that lay dormant for half to three quarters of a year don't always fire up in the same operating condition they were left in last spring.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.pjtra.com/t/RUBFQ0xMS0BERUdLTEBHQ0hMSA">24-7HomeWarranty.com Appliance and Home System Repair Warranties! Click here!</a><img src="http://www.pjtra.com/i/RUBFQ0xMS0BERUdLTEBHQ0hMSA" width="1" border="0" height="1" /><br /><br />How many homeowners get a <a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/Understanding_Home_Heating_Systems.html">heating system</a> tune-up in the fall? Not many. That's usually seen as an unwanted household expense until some malfunction rears its ugly head. So in reality, one of the best weapons in the fight against immolation is preparation.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Arm the Home with Fire Extinguishers</span><br /><br />Believe me; fire extinguishers are cheap. Home Depot practically gives them away. There is no excuse for not having one in the kitchen in case of grease fires or electrical fires.<br /><br />Be sure everyone knows where it is and how to use it. It's a good idea to buy several throw-aways and have a family practice session. Remember, aim low and sweep. That's the ticket.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Install Home Fire Sprinkler Systems</span><br /><br />Sprinklers are most often found in commercial buildings, but they can be a life saver in homes as well. Particularly at night when the family is slumbering and when no one is at home and the odd electrical fire breaks out.<br /><br />Think about installing an <a href="http://home-plumbing.suite101.com/article.cfm/fire_fighting_with_home_sprinkler_systems">automatic fire sprinkler</a> system in your home. Almost all insurance companies will give you a break on your <a href="http://homerenorepair.suite101.com/article.cfm/how_to_save_money_on_a_homeowners_insurance_bill">homeowners insurance policy</a> premiums.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.gopjn.com/t/R0BESkpKRUBERUdLTEBFREdLTA"><img src="http://www.gopjn.com/b/R0BESkpKRUBERUdLTEBFREdLTA" title="BrickHouse Security 468x60" alt="BrickHouse Security 468x60" width="468" border="0" height="60" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Have a Family Escape Plan</span><br /><br />This is stressed when kids are in elementary school and there are just a few basic rules.<br /><ul><li>Go out windows as appropriate.</li><li>Touch doors to feel for heat before opening.</li><li>Stay low to avoid smoke inhalation.</li><li>Establish a family meeting area to <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-7913-Houston-Running-Fitness-Examiner%7Ey2009m6d28-How-to-develop-a-regular-running-workout-routine">run to</a> off-property.</li><li>Know 911.<br /></li></ul><br />Keep all this in mind and you'll be the safer for it.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/" target="_blank"><br /><img src="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/images/ICFUMH_Banner.jpg" alt="Visit to Read Free Home Improvement and Repair Articles" title="”Free" home="" improvement="" and="" repair="" align="”middle”" border="0" /></a>KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-36148925201753910562009-11-07T15:14:00.000-08:002009-11-13T06:42:42.994-08:00Spreety TV Offers Free Entertainment<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjANsnaZUvnc54S__pFUYWR6H-CrRbBSU07gQbcSZwRmybNHttbrg4ap6-6NfE5j8P2Cqy1wadLyQHcVxDDhyGX4O7gOKPaovaz4r5VJfUjrISKFE4LaFMJ9kXhx7MG1aVCYJlIgZVEAg/s1600-h/Explorer_17_small.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 250px; height: 196px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjANsnaZUvnc54S__pFUYWR6H-CrRbBSU07gQbcSZwRmybNHttbrg4ap6-6NfE5j8P2Cqy1wadLyQHcVxDDhyGX4O7gOKPaovaz4r5VJfUjrISKFE4LaFMJ9kXhx7MG1aVCYJlIgZVEAg/s320/Explorer_17_small.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401513048017980482" border="0" /></a><br />I recently checked out Spreety TV thinking there might be a catch but I certainly didn't find one. This is a completely legal site for watching shows; almost anything you could desire to watch.<br /><br />Myself, I'm a sucker for the 50s shows. Especially the westerns and the sci-fi shows when they really had to really do their own props and stunts rather than work everything up on a computer. And it's <a href="http://www.spreety.com/">Free TV Online</a>!<br /><br />Of course, it's a good thing I'm a stern taskmaster of myself, since I work freelance from home on my computer, which just happens to have cutting edge media features. Self discipline? You bet! I think.<br /><br />Hang on, there's another episode of <span style="font-style: italic;">The Outer Limits</span>. "There is nothing wrong with your television set. Do not attempt to adjust the picture. We are controlling the transmission..."<br /><br />Of course, I realize that what pumps me up might leave you a bit on the deflated side. But from the exploration I've done, it looks like there's something for everybody. Go on; it's free. And addicting...<br /><br />This post has been sponsored by Spreety TV.KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-51475163076629567372009-11-06T11:30:00.000-08:002009-11-06T11:57:49.837-08:00Wall Sconces Add a Classy Lighting Touch<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLYBTApUTJBrzKvyzAV_WXlrBvhFs3vguBoIlnUmw8MliCXyKHkQ6eR9F1-yp7CGhtwF-wEuY90s0QtqaXDbaZA91ypELlFiLIxQrlVdgA-WP0y3o5LKOVrzjRDcLDDgZdN9RikHzOww/s1600-h/Calavera+two+light+bath+sconce.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 176px; height: 176px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLYBTApUTJBrzKvyzAV_WXlrBvhFs3vguBoIlnUmw8MliCXyKHkQ6eR9F1-yp7CGhtwF-wEuY90s0QtqaXDbaZA91ypELlFiLIxQrlVdgA-WP0y3o5LKOVrzjRDcLDDgZdN9RikHzOww/s320/Calavera+two+light+bath+sconce.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401078937480849394" border="0" /></a><br />Cookie cutter homes are rather straightforward and boring. That's the bad part. The good part is that it leaves the door open for customization. The stark white walls beg for color, the carpet's got to go, and the lighting needs to be individualized<br /><br />I'm fond of wall sconces because they blend in and stand out all at the same time. Recently I was checking some at <a href="http://www.shoppremier.com/">Premier Lighting</a> and really found a lot that would look good in my home when I remodel the living room.<br /><br />I was particularly taken with the <a href="http://www.shoppremier.com/images/Lighting_Images/Regular/FT-10-6822-14.jpg">Calavera Two Light Bath Bar</a>. I know it says bath, but about four would go great in my living room plan. Since it uses two lights, it's possible to use smaller wattage bulbs but still cast light to a wide area for accent. Awesome.<br /><br />The trickiest part of installing sconces is running the wiring. A lot of people work themselves to death getting the job done. So how is it done? Simple; use a fish tape to draw the wires down between the wall studs through a hole that the fixture will conceal. There you go; now you've got my secret!<br /><br />Many thanks to my sponsor, shoppremier.com.KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-13009052850604161782009-11-05T10:52:00.000-08:002009-11-13T06:38:08.915-08:00The Maturing of the Age of InformationI was helping a 6th grader the other day with research methods for a school science project and presentation. Things have certainly changed since the days when I was wallowing in the education system.<br /><br />Back in the day (boy, that ages me), we went to the library, used the Dewey Decimal System to locate appropriate reference material, read the information, and recorded it all on a pile of index cards. Not so today.<br /><br />Fortunately, my background in IT and the research skills I've developed as a Freelance Writer have kept me up to date. It's all on the internet. And tracking sources down has nothing to do with pawing through vast card catalogs only to find that the book desperately needed is checked out by someone.<br /><br />Google and other search engines made life easier by returning applicable articles, but some clever people have taken it one step further. Their search engines return links to actual scanned books, often in pdf format, so it actually looks like the original. For example, this <a href="http://www.ebook-search-queen.com/">pdf search</a> provides a search engine that works like Google to serve up the goods.<br /><br />So it's come full circle with digital research. Well, without the trip to the library which saves driving time and using gasoline. Now, can I claim carbon credits for that? I guess I'll have to email Al Gore for that answer...<br /><br />Many thanks to my sponsor, www.ebook-search-queen.com.KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-52376769407338036132009-11-04T20:32:00.000-08:002009-11-04T20:55:43.164-08:00New Furniture for an Economic DownturnIt sounds odd doesn't it? It seems like a recession would be the last time to splurge for a <a href="http://www.mynewfurniturestore.com/sectionalsofas-livingroomfurniture.aspx">sectional sofa</a>, doesn't it? Ironically, no. The reason for that is that a huge part of this economic downturn is the housing crisis brought about by sub-prime loans.<br /><br />Consequently, very few homeowners are spending available capital on trading up on a new domicile. Instead, they are doing things like taking staycations, <a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/">remodeling</a>, and yes, investing in new furniture.<br /><br />There's a bit more to it as well. I used to be the service manager at a furniture store in Houston. I found that other than couples or singles just starting out, customers used new furniture in the same way folks use comfort food. There's just something reassuring about a new <a href="http://www.mynewfurniturestore.com/brownleathersectionalsofa.aspx">leather sectional sofa</a>.<br /><br />Now all we need is a cash for clunkers furniture program to get this economy fired up!<br /><br />Thank you to my sponser, www.mynewfurniturestore.com.KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-86225383095038248232009-11-03T05:57:00.000-08:002009-11-03T08:35:46.096-08:00Choosing Tools for Christmas Gifts<a target="_blank" href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=125455&u=277741&m=9910&urllink=&afftrack="><img src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/hotcold-001-468x60-08q2-ch.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I know, I know; we haven't even had Thanksgiving yet so why talk about Christmas? Well, it's hard to fight the tide. Walmart is displaying plastic trees and decorations from China already. But why focus on <span style="font-style: italic;">tools</span> for holiday presents?<br /><br />Well, for one thing, if you have a woodworker or home repair type person to gift, pssst! Something for their hobby will earn you more gratitude than a pair of socks or soap-on-a-rope. And it's practical during this recession.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Got Power Tools?</span><br /><br />Yesterday I posted an article on <a href="http://homerenorepair.suite101.com/article.cfm/best_christmas_tool_gift_ideas_for_diyers">power tool gifts</a>. There's always one more on the list. He with the most tools when he dies wins! OK, that's a bit morbid, but it's true.<br /><form name="shareasale" action="http://www.shareasale.com/m-formredirect.cfm" method="POST"><br /><table width="500" border="0" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td valign="top" align="center"><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/m-s.cfm?u=277741&m=12070&b=1200"><img src="http://images.rockler.com/rockler/images/42036-01-80.jpg" alt="Rockler Gift Card" border="0" /></a></td><td valign="top"><span style="color: rgb(0, 51, 102);font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;" ><b>Rockler Gift Card</b></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvitica,sans-serif;">For the woodworker that has everything.Give the gift of choice with a Rockler Gift Card. Let your favorite woodworker choose from thousands of products from Rockler.</span><p align="center"><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvitica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/m-s.cfm?u=277741&m=12070&b=1200"><b>Rockler Gift Card</b></a></span></p></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></form>Sometimes for maximum accuracy only a certain tool will do the job easily. The Rotozip is one example. My Ryobi biscuit joiner is another. I can't tell you how many times I struggled with making dowel joints line up on complicated woodworking projects.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What if You're Looking for a Stocking Stuffer?</span><br /><br />Yeah, we're all on tight budgets. But there's always highly useful and appreciated stocking stuffers guaranteed to delight on Christmas morning. How about a Magnogrip? I just did a <a href="http://icanfixupmyhome.com/WPBlog/?p=252">Magnogrip review</a> a few weeks ago.<br /><br />I don't always do reviews on all the new products I'm approached about, but if I think they will benefit my readers here and at my main site (thanks for visiting so often and commenting, dear readers!), I'll go for it.<br /><br />Another good choice in this category are the materials for making workshop <a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/Metal_Hardware_Woodworking_Jigs.html">woodworking jigs</a>. What woodworker doesn't enjoy making his or her jigs?<br /><br />Anyhow, now I'm looking forward to Thanksgiving. I'm smack dab in the middle of training for the <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-7913-Houston-Running-Fitness-Examiner%7Ey2009m9d14-Chevron-Houston-Marathon-schedule-index">Houston Marathon</a>, so I can eat with abandon and a total lack of guilt...<br /><br /><p>Want to get timely but not annoyingly frequent home improvement news and tips? Brilliant! Sign up for my newsletter at <a href="mailto:subscribe@icanfixupmyhome.com?subject=Newsletter%20Sign-Up">subscribe@icanfixupmyhome.com</a>. <strong>Important:</strong> If you don’t get the confirmation email in a timely fashion, check your spam and/or junk folder and add listserv@icanfixupmyhome.com to your address book.</p> <p>Why? Because some email clients filter out unknown domains. Ouch. Meanwhile, visit my main site by clicking on the banner below.</p><a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/" target="_blank"><br /><img src="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/images/ICFUMH_Banner.jpg" alt="Visit to Read Free Home Improvement and Repair Articles" title="”Free" home="" improvement="" and="" repair="" align="”middle”" border="0" /></a>KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-46012181305807491122009-10-15T09:23:00.000-07:002009-10-15T10:12:19.631-07:00What's With Global Warming or Climate Change?<a target="_blank" href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=108031&u=277741&m=10301&urllink=&afftrack="><img src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/468x60-014.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><br />First of all, let me say that I don't buy into the whole global warming thing. Neither do it's standard bearers either it seems, since they've changed it to the ambiguous "climate change". If we're not warming, then are we just to <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-7913-Houston-Running-Fitness-Examiner%7Ey2009m7d23-Marathon-training-begins-with-plotting-out-a-schedule">running</a> madly about, pulling our hair and moaning?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">So What Exactly is the Environmental Change?</span><br /><br /><a target="_blank" href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=162995&u=277741&m=20959&urllink=&afftrack="><img src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/cigbanner120x240.gif" alt="Up to 80% Off iPhone Accessories" vspace="10" align="left" border="0" hspace="10" /></a>According to the BBC, over the course of the past eleven years, we haven't been warming at all. Quite the opposite. During that period of time, the Pacific ocean has been steadily cooling. This year we've experienced the weakest <a href="http://home-exteriors.suite101.com/article.cfm/how_to_prepare_windows_for_a_hurricane_disaster">hurricane</a> season in a long time. (Thank you, thank you!)<br /><br />And of course it's a fact that it takes warm water to make a hurricane.<br /><br />Before I get totally flamed, let me say that I <span style="font-style: italic;">do</span> believe humans directly affect the earth, the climate, and the environment. What I don't believe is that our effect is even minutely comparable to natural events like volcanic activity and bovine flatulence.<br /><br />At the end of the day, the climate change movement is a left-leaning political and a right-wing economic movement. On the one hand, implementing all the legislation to regulate activity such as the automotive and <a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com">construction</a> sectors is a means to give big government and international influences more control over our daily lives.<br /><br />On the other hand, hypocrites like the deplorable and pathetic Al Gore lean to the left in the public eye, but end up raking in the money from trading carbon units. And have you seen how much <a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/ICFUMH_Electrical.html">electricity</a> his mansion consumes? Or how much fuel his private jet burns. Can't fly coach while you lecture us, Al? Put up or shut up.<br /><br />The masses of true believers mean well, but have been swayed by both junk science and heavily <a href="http://www.ksmithwriter.com/">edited</a> studies. And you thought the 60s was the decade of the big kumbaya? You ain't seen nothing yet!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/" target="_blank"><br /><img src="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/images/ICFUMH_Banner.jpg" alt="Visit to Read Free Home Improvement and Repair Articles" title="”Free" home="" improvement="" and="" repair="" align="”middle”" border="0" /></a>KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-83112219257700455932009-09-30T13:41:00.000-07:002009-09-30T14:13:43.257-07:00When Relocating, Make Things Easy on Yourself<a href="http://angieslist.directtrack.com/z/18/CD218/"><img src="http://angieslist.directtrack.com/42/218/18/" alt="Angie's List!" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Face it, moving is traumatic. Whether you're moving to get a better job or just to keep the one you've got, you've got a lot of things to juggle, what with trying to wrap up things at your old place and coordinate getting situated at the new.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Moving Strategies</span><br /><br />There are strategies you can use to make the transition more seamless. Here's a few.<br />Have a professional do the heavy lifting for you. This is a great time saver. They are called movers in the US but are <a href="http://www.moveme.com/removals">removal companies</a> in the UK. That sounds like a "glass half full, glass half empty" thing to me. I love US/UK language differences!<br /><br />Plan ahead. It's never too soon to start on a game plan. Things will escalate the sooner the move gets. It you are moving because of business obligations, they will expect more from you before you leave; no loose ends.<br /><br />Register your new address with the post office. Time sensitive things need to follow you as soon as possible. Yeah, you can change as many as possible before the big move, but some will slip through the floorboards.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Transfer Your Services</span><br /><br />Not many professionals leave it all at the office. We always bring work home and make things happen after usual business hours. For this you need a seamless <a href="http://www.moveme.com/telecoms">transition of broadband services</a>.<br /><br />Satellite TV is a bit easier. One of the big selling points of Dish TV is "leave it there, we'll get you a new one". Good hype. but a Godsend for transitioners.<br /><br />When you move into a new home use local recommendations from Angie's List for fine-tuning your new home. <a href="http://angieslist.directtrack.com/z/31/CD218/">Take the Tour!</a><br /><a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/" target="_blank"><br /><img src="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/images/ICFUMH_Banner.jpg" alt="Visit to Read Free Home Improvement and Repair Articles" title="”Free" home="" improvement="" and="" repair="" align="”middle”" border="0" /></a>KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-11994555092255251182009-09-18T04:15:00.000-07:002009-09-18T05:42:53.612-07:00Health Care VS the Economy<a target="_blank" href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=108031&u=277741&m=10301&urllink=&afftrack="><img src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/468x60-014.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The Obama administration has been getting more and more of a backlash. First, the health care reform that was supposed to sail right through began to stumble. Now, it's not just wading through molasses, it's mired in the primeval Wahingtonian tar pits.<br /><br />Here's the issue: citizens, both on the right and the left, are increasingly asking why Obama is so focused on nationalizing the private business sector that he has no time to spend on saving the economy.<br /><br />Recent polls show that overwhelmingly, people that are losing their jobs and homes are not concerned with changing the way their present medical insurance works.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.exitjunction.com/index.jsp?ref=3125"><img src="http://www.exitjunction.com/banners/ej_468x60.gif" alt="ExitJunction.com - Make Money From Your Exit Traffic!" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Distraction that Cash for Clunkers was</span><br /><br />Even the cash for clunkers program is questionable. The administration is hailing it as a huge success. But was it? Many of the car dealers are still waiting for their money.<br /><br />Ironically, from a financial point of view, the clunkers program benefited Japan more than it did Detroit. Who in their right mind wants to buy any American car other than a Ford? Toyota and Nissan were the big winners with this mis-guided program.<br /><br />And on a fundamental level, I have to ask, why should <a href="https://www.brainsync.com/product.asp?specific=196&affiliate=557343">my tax dollars</a> subsidize someone else's new car purchase? This "cash" is our money, not the government's.<br /><br /><a href="http://angieslist.directtrack.com/z/18/CD218/"><img src="http://angieslist.directtrack.com/42/218/18/" alt="Angie's List!" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">ACORN in Deep Trouble?</span><br /><br />"ACORN has violated serious federal laws, and today the House voted to ensure that taxpayer dollars would no longer be used to fund this corrupt organization," said second-ranked House Republican <span style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; cursor: pointer; -moz-background-clip: border; -moz-background-origin: padding; -moz-background-inline-policy: continuous;" class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1253230786_2">Eric Cantor</span> of Virginia.<br /><br />Still, 75 democrats voted to keep ACORN afloat with tax dollars despite overwhelming evidence that they committed election fraud to get Obama elected and recently conspired to assist in setting up a brothel employing immigrant children as prostitutes.<br /><br />At least some members of the House concluded that this is not the way to stimulate the economy, whether Obama is willing to pull their funding or not.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/" target="_blank"><br /><img src="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/images/ICFUMH_Banner.jpg" alt="Visit to Read Free Home Improvement and Repair Articles" title="”Free" home="" improvement="" and="" repair="" align="”middle”" border="0" /></a>KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-23672998561012791832009-09-10T12:11:00.000-07:002009-09-10T13:04:32.230-07:00Re-Building After a Hurricane<a href="http://www.exitjunction.com/index.jsp?ref=3125"><img src="http://www.exitjunction.com/banners/ej_468x60.gif" alt="ExitJunction.com - Make Money From Your Exit Traffic!" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I write <a href="http://icanfixupmyhome.com/WPBlog/?p=217">hurricane</a> articles fairly regularly during the season, pretty much to get folks to prepare early, not at the 11th hour.<br /><br />I keep most supplies all year round, but the specific ones I need for the big blow, I can get at Home Depot early in the day. I've found that here in the bedroom communities south of Houston, folks that commute to the city are expected to show up, stay until the last minute, and storm-proof the facilities. "Do ya want yer job next week?"<br /><br />That's the way it was when I worked for Marriott. It was a difference of opinion. I thought my family and my major lifetime investment was a priority and my boss thought a hotel property (which the guests had mostly fled) was a more important investment. Good old Howard said, "Take one for the team, Kelly!"<br /><br />I don't think so.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.brainsync.com/pilot.asp?affiliate=557343"><img src="http://www.brainsync.com/images/banners/brain-sync468x60.jpg" width="468" border="0" height="60" /></a><br /><br />Anyway, there is plenty of devastation in the wake of a major storm. Sometimes a remodel is needed, but there are times when nothing short of a demo and re-building will do.<br /><br />If you have to re-build or you're just adding on, I suggest doing it right. Go green construction and use <a href="http://home-exteriors.suite101.com/article.cfm/insulated_concrete_forms_withstand_hurricanes">Insulated Concrete Forms</a> for your exterior walls. Not only are you going to save money in the long run, but you will be able to withstand those winds.<br /><br />Go for it, uh-huh!<br /><br />Subscribe to the I Can Fix Up My Home newsletter! Just send an email to subscribe@icanfixupmyhome.com and then respond to the confirmation email you'll receive. And, add listserv@icanfixupmyhome.com to ensure the newsletters don't get filtered out into your spam or junk folders.<p></p><a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/" target="_blank"><br /><img src="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/images/ICFUMH_Banner.jpg" alt="Visit to Read Free Home Improvement and Repair Articles" title="”Free" home="" improvement="" and="" repair="" align="”middle”" border="0" /></a>KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-65781393237714722012009-08-27T09:42:00.000-07:002009-08-27T10:30:44.452-07:00Finding a Roof Leak<a target="_blank" href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=176704&u=277741&m=22034&urllink=&afftrack="><img src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/Small%20Banner.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Roof leaks can be frustrating. The good news is that you don't have to call in a roofing contractor right away to find it. As long as you're handy and don't have a fear of going on your roof, go for it!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.exitjunction.com/index.jsp?ref=3125"><img src="http://www.exitjunction.com/banners/ej_120x240.gif" alt="ExitJunction.com - Make Money From Your Exit Traffic!" vspace="10" align="left" border="0" hspace="10" /></a>Different roofers and handymen have their own methods for finding roof leaks. Myself, I like to start at the bottom and work up. In other words, I begin my sleuth work by examining the ceiling inside the home.<br /><br />This can give valuable, time-saving clues. If the stain evidence is close to the chimney or a skylight, chances are it's a flashing issue. I'll check in the attic to make sure. If so, it's an easy fix to replace the flashing, or just slather on some roofing cement. It all depends on the particular situation.<br /><br />If it's not that obvious from first glance inside the home, I fall back on my steps for <a href="http://homerenorepair.suite101.com/article.cfm/how_to_diagnose_and_track_down_a_roof_leak">finding a roof leak</a>. Being methodical is key.<br /><br /><a target="_blank" href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=125469&u=277741&m=9910&urllink=&afftrack="><img src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/gen-001-468x60-arc-qs.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Don't get me wrong. I am not a roofer. I'd rather take a whipping than do a tear-off and re-roof. I did it once and that was it for me. Then again, I love to <a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/DrywallFinishing.html">tape and float drywall</a> and paint. Those two things will make most roofers gag!<br /><br />If you don't want to do the investigative work and repair yourself, be careful in picking your contractor or handyman. Sometimes, tracking down the actual leak is an art form because for the hard ones, you really have to know framing structure and the mechanics of shingles, flashing, etc.<br /><br />Prior experience is invaluable. After a few years of doing this detective work, a real sense of "Oh, I remember how I solved this one before," intuition is developed. And if you're paying by the hour, this is important.<br /><br />If you have to hire someone, I recommend <a href="http://angieslist.directtrack.com/z/10/CD218/">Angie's List.</a> highly. Their ratings come only from feedback from homeowners in your community, not simply a claim in the phone book or newspaper.<br /><br />Did this post help you? If so, get more. Just email me at <a href="mailto:subscribe@icanfixupmyhome.com?subject=Newsletter%20Sign-Up">subscribe@icanfixupmyhome.com</a>. In the body of the email, give me your name. Then you'll get an automatic email that asks you to confirm your subscription.<br /><br />Be sure to add listserv@icanfixupmyhome.com to your email white list or address book, because some email clients will put unknown mail in the junk or spam filter file.<br /><a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/" target="_blank"><br /><img src="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/images/ICFUMH_Banner.jpg" alt="Visit to Read Free Home Improvement and Repair Articles" title="”Free" home="" improvement="" and="" repair="" align="”middle”" border="0" /></a>KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-20110162162090430132009-08-18T11:26:00.000-07:002009-08-18T13:07:35.260-07:00Launch of the Home Improvement Newsletter<a target="_blank" href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=103525&u=277741&m=12070&urllink=&afftrack="><img src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/FreeFreightJetBanner.gif" align="center" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I've gotten around to launching the newsletter feature for my <a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/">I Can Fix Up My Home</a> site (ICFUMH, or Ick-Fum ;-). Would have gotten it done sooner, but it took a while to find software that I liked.<br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=ic07f-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=156158827X&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width: 120px; height: 240px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" vspace="10" hspace="10" align="left" frameborder="1" scrolling="no"></iframe><br />In addition to this blog, there's also a separate <a href="http://icanfixupmyhome.com%20/WPBlog/">home improvement blog</a> over at ICFUMH. The two blogs aren't identical, but I see the newsletter as something in size between a blog and the site itself, which already has over a year's worth of free articles with new ones being added all the time.<br /><br />It's also a great platform to share information that I get from my partners about new tools, materials, and building practices. And when they inform me of <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=112733&u=277741&m=12747&urllink=&afftrack=">tool specials</a> and promotions, it's a great way to pass that information on to you. If I put it on the blogs or elsewhere, it would just be too static.<br /><br />I'd hate for anyone to try to get in on a great promotional deal that happened a couple of months ago. Those kind of things have a short window of opportunity. But in this recession economy, I've been seeing some <span style="font-style: italic;">very</span> good deals.<br /><br />If you would like to subscribe, welcome! Just email me at <a href="mailto:subscribe@icanfixupmyhome.com?subject=Newsletter%20Sign-Up">subscribe@icanfixupmyhome.com</a>. In the body, give me your name and your location as well, if you feel comfortable with that. Then you'll get an automatic email that asks you to confirm your subscription. This is not mere jumping-through-hoops; it just makes sure that nobody is goofing on you. It happens.<br /><br />I mean, who <span style="font-style: italic;">hasn't</span> sent in 100 bill-me-later, postage-paid subscription cards to Playgirl magazine for the ex-boss after being laid off?<br /><br />Be sure to add listserv@icanfixupmyhome.com to your email white list or address book, because some email clients will put unknown mail in the junk or spam filter file.<br /><br />If you would like to virtually join me training for the Chevron Houston Marathon, check out my online <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-7913-Houston-Running-Fitness-Examiner%7Ey2009m7d25-Houston-Marathon-training-program--week-1">marathon training schedule</a>. That link is for week 1, and we are now in week 4. Just follow the links at the bottom of the pages.<br /><br />It's not too late to jump on the bandwagon, even for a first-time marathoner. For example, this week's total mileage is just 19.4 miles. If you are planning a different marathon on a different date, feel free to print out my schedules and do them on your schedule. Stay <a href="https://www.brainsync.com/product.asp?specific=135&affiliate=557343">motivated</a>!<br /><br />I post the next week's schedule every Friday or Saturday. Since it's a 26 week schedule, <span style="font-style: italic;">we've got a way to go</span>. Pun intended!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/" target="_blank"><br /><img src="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/images/ICFUMH_Banner.jpg" alt="Visit to Read Free Home Improvement and Repair Articles" title="”Free" home="" improvement="" and="" repair="" align="”middle”" border="0" /></a>KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-16458001908699145752009-08-12T09:10:00.000-07:002009-08-12T09:41:05.334-07:00Preparing for Hurricane Season<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfadjGg5HyzUIHZRbkB4E7ULX8Gl9TTNtyaMIEbu7Uq54nGmSj7d5zmHtQaF3RDNGaserqWiqJdegnVHanYNIgmpIp3h4rxQX8oyrxAn13pvC4ZDS_4KdZdhJcuOODRrFdSX0x9ar59A/s1600-h/Hurricane_Damaged_Home_400px.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfadjGg5HyzUIHZRbkB4E7ULX8Gl9TTNtyaMIEbu7Uq54nGmSj7d5zmHtQaF3RDNGaserqWiqJdegnVHanYNIgmpIp3h4rxQX8oyrxAn13pvC4ZDS_4KdZdhJcuOODRrFdSX0x9ar59A/s320/Hurricane_Damaged_Home_400px.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369111867529272834" border="0" /></a>It's been a quiet hurricane season so far; not a hint or whisper of a Katrina or Ike. Unfortunately, most of out memories are short-lived.<br /><br />Don't fall into this trap, folks. Prepare now, now, I tell you! Don't be one of the Gomers standing in line at Home Depot.<br /><br />There are many things you can do to prepare now. First and foremost is getting your supplies together for protecting your windows.<br /><br />For most folks of frugal means, this means 1/2" plywood. The best way to secure them is with Plylox hurricane clips.<br /><br />Need <a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/ICFUMH_Tools.html">tools</a> for storm-proofing your home? <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=145458&u=277741&m=12747&urllink=&afftrack=">Take 10% off all new Porter-Cable tools and accessories. No coupon code required. Discount will be applied automatically at checkout. </a><br /><br />Those of you with deeper pockets might choose to go with metal storm shutters.<br /><br />That done, focus on these items:<br /><ul><li>Flashlights</li><li>Batteries</li><li>Canned food and bottled water</li><li>Emergency medical kit</li><li>Weather radio with a hand crank<br /></li></ul><br />With luck, we'll dodge the bullet this year. Statistically, this is a good probability. But like the old commercial says, "It's not nice to fool with mother nature!"<br /><a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/" target="_blank"><br /><img src="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/images/ICFUMH_Banner.jpg" alt="Visit to Read Free Home Improvement and Repair Articles" title="”Free" home="" improvement="" and="" repair="" align="”middle”" border="0" /></a>KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-77970406894199142092009-07-23T05:54:00.000-07:002009-07-23T08:25:00.787-07:00Hanging Wallpaper Made Easy<center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=108038&u=277741&m=10301&urllink=&afftrack="><img src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/234x60-01a.gif" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br /><a href="http://www.exitjunction.com/index.jsp?ref=3125"><img src="http://www.exitjunction.com/banners/ej_120x600.gif" alt="ExitJunction.com - Make Money From Your Exit Traffic!" align="left" border="0" hspace="10" vspace="10" /></a>Hanging wallpaper, or vinyl in some cases, is one of those DIY jobs that make some DIYers cringe with nausea. Why? Not because of the smell of the wallpaper paste. Usually, it's from a past frustrating experience.<br /><br />Getting a grip on this job is like learning to <a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/DrywallFinishing.html">tape and float drywall</a>. What it really takes is patience. The main points, which are outlined in detail in this article on properly <a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/How_To_Hang_Wallpaper.html">hanging wallpaper</a> are straightforward.<br /><br />The problems that most people have are really easy to solve. For example, I can't tell you the number of comments I've gotten asking why the job got botched.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Importance of Using a Plumb Bob</span><br /><br />Me: "And what tool or method did you use to plumb the first drop?"<br />DIYer: "Tool?"<br /><br />See where I'm going with this? If the first drop is off, even by 1/8" from top to bottom, you'll never recover if the paper you're working with has a pattern. If anything, it'll get worse as you go along.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Task Lighting and Level Viewing</span><br /><br />More experience paper hangers develop almost what seems a sixth sense for lining up the pattern. But matching the pattern can be a challenge for novices. On many patterns, the repetitions are not so obvious, and in fact what you thought was correct alignment at first glance turns out not to be so.<br /><br />It's a visual thing. The first trick is to have proper work lighting. Natural sunlight seems to work best for me. That's not always practical. On my contract jobs, this <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/ic07f-20/detail/B0000BYEJV">twin work light</a> has been the best I've found. In fact, I use it in my home wood shop.<br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=134397&u=277741&m=18169&urllink=&afftrack="><img src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/wfwlogo300x63wbrdr.jpg" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br />Secondly, you need to looking at the seam horizontally. So much can change when you look at an angle. It's a real sinking feeling to get a whole wall done, step back to admire it, and realize, holy flying crap! It looked good up close! What happened??<br /><br />The moral of the story is: have patience, go slow, and step back and check your work often.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/" target="_blank"><br /><img src="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/images/ICFUMH_Banner.jpg" alt="Visit to Read Free Home Improvement and Repair Articles" title="”Free" home="" improvement="" and="" repair="" align="”middle”" border="0" /></a>KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-63033545052050305562009-07-15T07:38:00.000-07:002009-07-15T09:27:09.536-07:00Project Medicine Cabinet<a target="_blank" href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=77230&u=277741&m=12070&urllink=&afftrack="><img src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/468x60_07dovetaildust.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><br />That's right, a recessed medicine cabinet. I've been working on it a hour or so a day for a while and the end is near.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.exitjunction.com/index.jsp?ref=3125"><img src="http://www.exitjunction.com/banners/ej_125x125.gif" alt="ExitJunction.com - Make Money From Your Exit Traffic!" align="left" border="0" /></a>There is a reason why I always scratch my head when <a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/ICFUMH_Tools.html">woodworking</a> project plans say, "one weekend," or "one day". The fact of the issue is that the majority of time is not-work time. This is time waiting for glue or finish or <a href="http://icanfixupmyhome.com/WPBlog/?p=51">homemade wood putty</a> to dry.<br /><br />Sanding always takes its temporal toll too.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Biscuit Joints Beat Dowels</span><br /><br />Joinery is one of my favorite aspects of woodworking. About two years ago I made the leap from dowels to biscuits. Wow.<br /><br />What a difference in accuracy. On the medicine cabinet I used Porter Cable biscuits on the trim face and the door. All I lack now is finishing and hanging the door and cutting and installing the shelves.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Plexiglas Shelving</span><br /><br />I ended up opting for Plexiglas shelves (actually a non-brand name version). Why? For one thing, it looks sleek. For another thing, it's a good strength vs thickness compromise. Wood just uses too much valuable real estate.<br /><br /><a href="http://angieslist.directtrack.com/z/18/CD218/"><img src="http://angieslist.directtrack.com/42/218/18/" alt="Angie's List!" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Wood. Choose Wisely.</span><br /><br />I went with poplar for the body but red oak for the face and door frame. For the door face and the back parts, I used luan (also called lauan) plywood. Hey, it's cheap and looks good too!<br /><br />Is it just me or has the price of red oak gone down at Home Depot? Maybe there's a downtick in the <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=125457&u=277741&m=9910&urllink=&afftrack=">home remodeling</a> market and they're trying to boost sales?<br /><br />Anyway, I'll post an article when I finish the cabinet. As for the plans, I'm toying with the idea of making the plans into an ebook and offering it as a sign-up gift for subscribing to my newsletter. Any takers?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/" target="_blank"><br /><img src="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/images/ICFUMH_Banner.jpg" alt="Visit to Read Free Home Improvement and Repair Articles" title="”Visit" to="" read="" free="" home="" improvement="" and="" repair="" align="”middle”" border="0" /></a>KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4961132723148358325.post-72864022576061265522009-07-07T07:04:00.000-07:002009-07-07T08:16:36.365-07:00How to Become a Millionaire Using the Internet<a href="http://www.exitjunction.com/index.jsp?ref=3125"><img src="http://www.exitjunction.com/banners/ej_120x240.gif" alt="ExitJunction.com - Make Money From Your Exit Traffic!" align="left" border="0" hspace="10" vspace="10" /></a>Work from home! Automatic cash machine! Be a millionaire Hawaii beach bum! Turnkey business! We've all heard it. Don't be a bumpkin, folks; the people making the big bucks passively are the ones you hear in the radio ads.<br /><br />Not to say that you can't <a href="http://home-based-businesses.suite101.com/article.cfm/how_to_make_money_from_home_on_the_internet">make money on the internet</a>; you can. That's the good news. But here's the catch: like everything else, it's a lot of hard work. How do I know? Because I make a living this way and I work seven days a week.<br /><br />Maybe in a few years I can slack off, but not yet. So how's it done? Well, since it's the internet (thanks for inventing it, Al Gore!), you need high-speed access. Then you need to build your own website with tools like <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=63807&u=277741&m=10805&urllink=&afftrack=">DreamTemplate</a>, use someone else's (like Ebay), or provide content for other people's sites.<br /><br />You can make money on your site doing affiliate marketing for companies like <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=69&u=277741&m=47&urllink=&afftrack=">shareasale.com</a>.<br /><br />So how does doing your own thing differ from buying a turnkey "business" from the scam artists? You have to stand out in the crowd by providing your own angle. The scam artists are selling the same internet store to as many suckers as they can. At a huge profit.<br /><br />Want to see how I do it? Check out the content I provide for other sites at <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-7913-Houston-Running-Fitness-Examiner">http://www.examiner.com/x-7913-Houston-Running-Fitness-Examiner</a> where I write fitness articles and <a href="http://homerenorepair.suite101.com/">http://homerenorepair.suite101.com/</a> where I'm the feature writer for the home improvement topic.<br /><br />And finally, to see the site I've built, just click on the banner below!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/" target="_blank"><br /><img src="http://www.icanfixupmyhome.com/images/ICFUMH_Banner.jpg" alt="Visit to Read Free Home Improvement and Repair Articles" title="”Visit" to="" read="" free="" home="" improvement="" and="" repair="" align="”middle”" border="0" /></a>KellySmithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036860315185326262noreply@blogger.com0