© Lyn Lomasi; Owner/Shaman/Master Creator at  Intent-sive N8R & Brand Shamans Content Community LLC

byLyn Lomasi; Owner & Ordained Shaman atIntent-sive Nature &Brand Shamans Content Community LLC

Are you tired of the same old backyard setup? Ready to transform your outdoor space into a stylish and functional oasis? Look no further! In this guide, we will empower you with all the knowledge you need to create a stunning outdoor kitchen that leaves your guests in awe.

5. Materials Matter: Unveiling the Best for Outdoor Kitchen Construction

Choosing the right materials is paramount to ensure your outdoor kitchen stands the test of time. From weather-resistant countertops to durable flooring, our guide will help you make the right decisions to guarantee your kitchen's longevity.

6. DIY with Confidence: The Art of Building Your Outdoor Kitchen

For the ambitious DIY enthusiasts, we present a step-by-step guide to building your outdoor kitchen with confidence. From laying the foundation to installing appliances, this section will empower you to take on the challenge like a pro.

7. Contractor’s Touch: Benefits of Seeking Professional Expertise

Entrusting your outdoor kitchen construction to a professional yields numerous advantages. Discover the benefits of hiring a seasoned contractor, from reducing construction time to accessing superior craftsmanship.

8. Safety First: Ensuring a Secure and Enjoyable Outdoor Kitchen

Prioritize safety without compromising style. Learn how to implement safety measures such as proper ventilation, fire-resistant materials, and smart appliance placements to guarantee a worry-free cooking experience.

9. Personalize and Enhance: Tailoring Your Outdoor Kitchen Experience

Go the extra mile by personalizing your outdoor kitchen with unique touches. Incorporate seating arrangements, decorative elements, and functional add-ons that bring out your personality and create a welcoming ambiance for your guests.

10. Time to Take Action: Embark on Your Outdoor Kitchen Journey

The journey to creating a functional and stylish outdoor kitchen starts now. With the knowledge and confidence gained from this guide, take immediate action and make your dream outdoor kitchen a reality!

In conclusion, a remarkable outdoor kitchen is within your grasp. By combining functionality with style and leveraging the expertise of professionals or your DIY prowess, you'll create a space that elevates your home and enhances your lifestyle. So, are you ready to unlock the true potential of your backyard? Embrace the transformation and let your outdoor kitchen become the talk of the town!

Remember, the key to success lies in planning, taking action, and never settling for less. A bold and powerful outdoor kitchen awaits - seize the opportunity today!

by April Paul, Brand Shamans & Write W.A.V.E. Media

Summertime is the time of year when everyone wants to go swimming. Not everyone has access to a beach and not everyone who does have beach access feels like going to the beach for whatever reason. Maybe it's too crowded, there's no beach, or you don't want everyone seeing you in your swimwear. No matter your reasons, here's a fun solution. Create a  beach in your own backyard.

Materials Needed

• 1 large sandbox or boxed-off area in your backyard
  
• beach sand (enough to fill the box or area plus some extra)
  
• 1 pool or baby pool (size-appropriate for everyone)
  
• sand toys
  
• beach towel for each person
  
• cooler with drinks and lunches
  
• sunglasses for each person
  
• sunscreen or sunblock lotion
  

Creating Your Backyard Beach

Step1: Forming Your Backyard Beach Shore

To make your beach shore, you will need to fill your sandbox or boxed-off area with beach sand. Beach sand can be bought at retail stores that sell gardening supplies. It is also sold at many home improvement warehouses, such as Home Depot.

If your city has neither of these, you may want to ask someone at a local hardware or garden store. It can also be purchased from gravel and rock manufacturers as well as from playground manufacturers. Beach sand is readily accessible.

Keep in mind that in order to create the full effect, you are going to need a large amount. You will want to fill a space that when full, the whole family can spread out onto comfortably. When filling your area, make sure to get the beach sand as high up as possible.

You want your surface to rise at least 2 feet from the ground. If you cannot find something that is this high, you can purchase a second baby pool that is 2 feet high and fill it with the sand. Save enough beach sand to line the entire bottom of the water pool 2 inches high. Line the pool bottom with sand before filling it with water.

Step 2: Creating Your Backyard Ocean

The pool will serve as your ocean. It should be placed directly in front of your shore. It is helpful to get a square or rectangle-shaped pool, but not necessary. The square or rectangle-shaped pool will align better with the shore and create the best mock beach. The sides of your pool should be 2 feet high to match the height of the shore.

Most standard baby and family pools are 2 feet high. After aligning your "ocean" as best as possible to the "shore", you will need to fill the bottom 2 inches full of sand. Pack it tight. You may need to add a small amount of water to make it firm. Once that is done, fill the pool with water to the desired fill line. If any sand is clouding the water, let it settle before swimming.

Step 3: Setting Up For the Day At Your Backyard Beach

A day at the beach usually consists of playing in the sand, sun bathing, swimming, and eating packaged lunches. For the full effect, pack your cooler with everything you'll need and put it in the sand. Lay out all your beach toys in the sand. Do not forget anything in the house.

Do not use the house for anything but a restroom. Lay out your towels on the sand as you would at the beach. Spend the day playing in the sand, lounging in the sand, swimming, and doing what you would normally do at the beach.

Maintaining Your Backyard Beach

If you enjoyed using your backyard beach, you will want to utilize it more often. If you bought a pool and sandbox with a cover, this will be easy. If not, there is still hope.

The first step in maintenance is to get a toy sand sifter or kitchen strainer and sift out all the grass and other large residue. Once this is done, put a small amount of chlorine in your pool to disinfect the germs. If your family cannot tolerate chlorine, vinegar is an alternative. It will likely take an entire gallon of vinegar. Pour it in the pool and let it sit for at least a few hours before swimming in it again.

Repeat this after each day of swimming. Cover the pool and sandbox after cleaning and adding the disinfectants mentioned above. If you don't have covers, tarps also work well because you can cover the areas. Then with sticks or stakes, you can secure the corners to the ground. This will keep out leaves and other debris.

The water will likely need to be refilled at times because as people play in it, some will naturally get lost. Evaporation also takes some water. Remember that whenever you have to refill your water, you will also need to add more vinegar or chlorine. Always check the labels on the chlorine for proper amounts. For the vinegar, if you can smell it very strongly, you have used too much.

The sandbox in your backyard beach may need to be sifted through for debris to keep it clean. Always keep it covered when it is not in use. This will keep neighborhood animals, as well as your own, from using it as a restroom or digging it up.

*Note that this content is for informational purposes only. Please check with your health provider and use your own discretion when it comes to health, safety, and sanitary practices.

by Lyn Lomasi; Owner of Intent-sive Nature & Brand Shamans Content Community

Oh no! It will soon be time for summer fun in the yard. Excited to begin but your lawn isn't? Whether you have missing patches of grass to fill or need to seed an entire lawn, this easy step-by-step guide will help you learn how to plant grass seed.

Before planting grass seed, keep in mind the best temperatures and seasons for planting. A temperature of above 70F is optimal. Anything below (especially freezing temperatures), will create a longer wait time for the seedlings to start sprouting. Late spring and early summer are the best planting seasons for starting new grass seed.

Loosen Soil

The first step in planting grass seed is to loosen the soil. For smaller areas, a regular garden hoe will do the trick. For larger areas, you may want to use a till. Your goal is to bring up the second layer of soil to the surface.

Prepare Soil

Prepping the soil comes in a few steps. First rake the soil to clear it of any leaves or other unwanted items. Next, mix some topsoil in with the original soil from the ground. Spread that mixed soil over the area where the grass seed will be planted.

Fertilize Soil

The next step is to fertilize the soil. This can be done with the use of a handheld spreader for small areas. For larger areas, use a traditional spreader. Spreaders can be purchased at a fairly decent price at home improvement stores and warehouses, such as Home Depot.

Spread Seeds

Now that the soil is ready, it is time to spread the seeds throughout the planting area. For smaller areas, this can be done by hand. Just as with the fertilizer, a spreader can be used if necessary.

Water Seeds

Now that the seeds have been spread, it is time to water them. Be sure that the seeds get plenty of water. Soil should be moist and the water should run deep into the soil. Watering daily will help the seeds germinate properly. It may take up to three weeks for the planted seeds to grow into grass. Once it has grown to almost 3 inches, it is safe to mow, but never mow off more than 1/3 of the original height.

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

"But mom, I need a couch, a desk, a bed, and a dresser all to fit into my room. Oh, and I also need a card table and a vanity." If this statement worries you, think about choosing versatile furniture for a kid's bedroom.

Choose flexible colors and patterns. Ever seen a child's room where the colors and patterns just don't mesh? Many times this is due to lack of planning. The parents may have picked out one pattern when the child was younger and blended several over the years. Choosing solid colors and neutral patterns can help prevent this. Does your child like a particular character or item? Choose furniture of those colors and keep the character or object pattern to the bedding and draperies. Those are easier and less expensive to switch out as your child grows. Solid colors make furniture more versatile, as it can be used for years to come as the child's tastes grow with him.

Use transitional furniture. Another way to keep kids furniture versatile is by choosing pieces that can transform into stages as your child grows. For instance, choosing a convertible crib that changes from a crib, to a toddler bed, then a twin sized bed is a wiser purchase than a simple crib. Choose furniture that easily changes when your child's needs do.

Choose multipurpose items. Rather than choosing items that have only one function, save space by choosing things that are good for more than one purpose. For instance, you might choose a bench that also doubles as a storage space. Another option is a futon or other seating area that also doubles as a bed. This helps save space in your child's room. But at the same time, it gives them all the items they would like to have.

Choose items with multiple age levels. Rather than buying small items that will not grow with your child, choose those that are appropriate for all ages. For instance, one table and chair set may accommodate only preschoolers. Yet another may work for preschool age on up to teens. The second option is more versatile. It will last longer and also will come in handy when friends of relatives of varying ages come over for a play date.

What are the benefits of choosing versatile furniture for a kids bedroom? Items that work for many uses and a variety of age levels are beneficial in many ways. These items, though sometimes pricey, can actually be a savings in the long run. This is because they will help prevent the purchase of other items in the future. These items often grow with the child, which means they don't have to give up their favorite items. Another great benefit to versatile items is that if your child decides he does not like a piece as he grows, it can be re-purposed for another family member or friend.

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Adding curb appeal to your home doesn't have to be hard. It can actually be quite fun. Whether you're dressing it up for a showing, just want your home to look the way it makes you feel, or just want to show off to your friends and neighbors, there are many things you can do to add curb appeal to your front steps and landing.

Why Should I Worry About Curb Appeal?

Curb appeal is important to a home for a variety of reasons. Your home should feel inviting to you. It should also be something you are proud of and should show your personality. Adding curb appeal could help you feel that before you even step foot in your door.

If you are selling your home, curb appeal can help make sale. If a home is not attractive on the outside, buyers instantly get a bad impression before stepping foot in the door and may expect (and look for) the worst. Another reason for curb appeal is that you don't want your home to stand out as the eyesore of the neighborhood.

Using Potted Trees Appropriately

One simple way to add some curb appeal to your front steps and landing areas is to use potted trees. Potted trees can make attractive scenery and there are many styles to choose from. Try to choose trees that will do well in your climate, as well as accent the area. For instance, you don't want to put a tall palm tree in the middle of a small walkway in the dead of winter.

Walkway Gardens For More Style

Gardens can be created just about anywhere. A walkway garden is another way to create curb appeal. This can be done right into the ground. However, if there is already cement or stone in place that you'd rather not dig up, you may want to take another approach by using potted plants and other scenery along the border of the walkway.

A raised bed garden also works great as a walkway garden. The container for one of these can be created with wood, stone, brick, or other materials. You can purchase these and other necessary materials, as well as the plants at the local home improvement center. Flowers and shrubbery both work well for raised bed gardens that will be along a walkway.

The garden can be centered or created along the sides of the walkway, leading up to the landing. Placement should depend upon your individual taste, as well as your exterior layout and available space.

Accenting Your Landing

Decorative planters are another great way to accent your stairs and landing. They come in many sizes and a variety of plant choices can be used to match your scenery and effectively draw positive attention to your home. Garden centers and home improvement warehouses generally have a big selection of planters, as well as plants and flowers.

Choosing containers with nontraditional shapes and placing them along the stairs is one way to add curb appeal with decorative planters. Another way could be to plant some flowers in a fountain or other non-traditional item that can be used as a planter.

Decorative pedestals can also create curb appeal. Placing them at the landing of the stairs can create an elegant look, depending upon the layout of your home. Try painting the pedestals with textured or marbleized paints. Go for colors that blend in with the look of your home, as well as the outdoor scenery.

Making a Splash With Water Features

Another great way to add curb appeal is by using water features. Above, there was an example of using a fountain as a planter. That's one idea. Another could be to create a tropical or forest scene inside a water feature.

Water is calming and soothing and can make you and your guests feel welcome before even setting foot inside. Set up this water feature on your landing, being sure to still leave room for accessing the stairs and the home. If your landing is small, water features can be created on walls as well.

There are many ways to add curb appeal. It's all about adding accents to your existing features. Everyone has their own individual taste and style. No matter which options you choose, be sure it not only makes your home look attractive, but makes you feel at home as well. At the end of the day, it is still your home and the main curb appeal should be catered to your own preferences.

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

If you're a frugal shopper (or cheap) like me, then you need an equally frugal (or cheap) place to store your coupons. Follow along to learn how to make your own coupon organizer. Minimal sewing skills are required, but this simple project can even be done by sewing novices.

Materials for Making Your Own Coupon Organizer

Zippered pencil pouches can easily be purchased for less than a dollar each if you go at the right time. You'll need about five zippered pouches. They should be around 4" x 9" and should not be the ones that include holes for three-ring binders. Dollar stores and back to school sales are a great place to find these.

You'll also need a large hand sewing needle and embroidery floss in a color that matches your pouches. Since you'll be sewing, be sure you also have some scissors on hand.

How to Make Your Own Coupon Organizer Easily

Now that you've gathered all the materials for your simple coupon organizer, it's time to get started. Line up the pencil pouches evenly, making sure that the zippers are all facing the same way. Thread the needle with the embroidery floss.

A quick tip to remember when threading the needles is to bring the thread to the needle, not the other way around. Now sew around the edges and bottoms. This should connect all of the zippered pouches together. The zippered sections, as well as the sections in between the zippers, can be used for organizing coupons.

Adding Extra Features to the Simple Coupon Organizer

If you want to label your homemade coupon organizer, it should be quite simple to stick adhesive labels to the upper inside of each section. Label the coupons in a way that you will be able to understand and get to fairly easily. Some suggested categories include dairy, cereal and breakfast foods, canned goods, breads, meats, cooking/baking, and snacks.

For convenience, you may also want to make it so that your coupon organizer attaches to the handle of a grocery cart. To do this, purchase an extra zippered pouch. Cut the sides of that pouch. While sewing the pouches together, attach the cut pouch to the back side, leaving the cut half sticking up at the top.

Attach a strip of velcro to the top edge of that piece. Determine where the other part of the velcro would need to go on the back to circle that flap around a shopping cart handle. Then, attach it to that area. That's it. Now you have an ultra-convenient and ultra simple coupon organizer.

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

A fall garden party can be a great way to welcome and celebrate the fall season. The fall garden party activities below are a great way to keep your guests talking and leave them something to remember long after the party has ended.

Seed Swapping

What's a fall garden party without planting seeds? Ask your guests to bring fall seeds to exchange with others. They can either buy seeds from the store, bring seeds they have but won't use, or cultivate some seeds from their own gardens to share. If there are loose fall seeds, place those in zippered sandwich bags to make it easier to distribute them.

Once everyone has contributed their share, sort them in a way that makes it easy for everyone to choose which ones they'd like. Have a designated area to organize all the seedlings and also figure out how many packages each person will be able to have.You may wish to supply something fun for each person to collect their seeds with, such as a watering can or small pot or planter.

DIY Container Planting

Another fun garden party activity is DIY container planting. Your fellow gardening pals will enjoy this activity. It can be fun to garden together with friends. Tips can be shared and since guests at a fall garden party will likely be gardeners, most should be enjoying themselves. Supply gloves, a container, fall seedlings, soil, and a garden spade.

You may also want to have guests use some of the seeds acquired during the seed swap. Allow guests to bring home whatever they have planted in their planters. This not only gives the guests something fun to do at the outdoor party, but it also gives them something they can use. Plus, each time they look at their fall plants, they can remember the great time spent with their friends.

Buckets for the Homeless

If you'd rather gear your fall party toward being charitable to others, instead of the DIY container planting, guests can create buckets for the homeless. Buckets for the homeless are actual container gardens using buckets. For these, you'll need a large bucket for each one to be made, soil, and vegetable seeds or sprouts. Buckets make great container gardens for the hungry or homeless because they can be easily carried around.

They provide a continuous source of nutrition that they can bring anywhere without worrying about refrigeration. Be sure to plant a variety of vegetables. Usually for these, the tomato is planted in the middle, with other vegetables surrounding it. Place a cracked egg underneath the tomato plant for extra fertilizer. Also, be sure that holes are poked in the bottom and sides of the buckets for irrigation.

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Did you know that you could make your own air freshener? You certainly can. As one who generally prefers natural products over those made with chemicals, I have experimented with numerous chemical-free materials over the years. Below, you will learn how to make your own air freshener with a variety of different scents. Some versions are even safe for those with allergies or asthma and have been tested on such individuals on many occasions. The scents are listed first, with the instructions following.

Homemade Air Freshener Scents

Vanilla Lemon Spice - This air freshener should be safe for allergy and asthma sufferers. It also seems to clear the sinuses, which could be good during cold or allergy season. Of course, always check with your doctor first. For this air freshener, you will need 2 fresh lemons (sliced), 1 tbsp natural vanilla extract, and 1 tbsp allspice.

Almond Apple Pie - For this air freshener, you will need 2 freshly diced apples, 2 tbsp freshly ground cinnamon, 2 tsp natural almond extract, and ¼ cup brown sugar. This version seems to be safe for allergy and asthma sufferers.

Christmas Joy - For this air freshener, you will need 2 cinnamon sticks, 2 fresh sprigs from a pine tree, and 3 pine cones. If you have pine allergies, you'll want to try the "Fresh Winter" instructions instead.

Spring Lilac - For this air freshener, you will need 3 or 4 lilac bunches, which are fairly easy to find in the spring time. However, you'll have to hand pick them from your yard or a friend or neighbor's yard unless you want to purchase a blooming bush. Lilacs are generally not sold pre-cut in florist shops, as they wilt quickly. If you are allergic to these flowers, you may instead want to try a different scent. These are very strong.

Fall Frolic - For this air freshener, you'll need a sandwich bag full of dried leaves and small twigs. You'll also need 1 tbsp of ground cinnamon or 2 fresh cinnamon sticks. If you have tree allergies or asthma triggers, you'll want to shy away from this one and try another.

Coconut Breeze - For this air freshener, you'll need 1 tbsp almond extract, 1 tbsp of vanilla extract, and 1 can of coconut milk. This version does not seem to bother asthma and allergy sufferers.

Orange Spice - For this air freshener, you'll need 2 oranges (sliced), 1 tbsp cinnamon (or 2 cinnamon sticks), 1 tbsp of natural vanilla extract, and a few dried leaves and broken twigs. Asthma and allergy sufferers can forgo the leaves and twigs. This version still provides a nice scent without them.

Natural Living - For this air freshener, you'll need some dried leaves, a few broken twigs, and 1 tbsp of vanilla extract. For asthma and allergy sufferers, simply use 2 tbsp of vanilla extract and don't use the leaves and twigs. Some may even be able to tolerate using wood chips instead.

Fresh Winter - For this air freshener, you'll need 1 package of 12 peppermint candy canes or an equivalent amount of another peppermint candy. You'll also need 1 tbsp natural vanilla extract and 1 tbsp ground cinnamon. To make a hot chocolate smell, add 1 tbsp chocolate liqueur (viable substitutions = 1pkg hot cocoa mix or 2 tbsp cocoa powder). This scent seems to be safe for asthma and allergy sufferers and often clears chest congestion, as well as the sinuses.

Natural Wood - For this air freshener, you'll only need wood chips. These can generally be found in the gardening supply section of many stores in the form of mulch. Craft supply stores sometimes sell wood scraps in bulk as well. Pick those woods that are highly fragrant, such as cedar. Also be sure you are picking thin, rather than heavy, woods because you want them to be floating at the surface of your water, not sinking. Put enough in your saucepan to cover the top area and still be floating. Some asthma and allergy sufferers may want to skip this scent.

Instructions For Making and Using the Homemade Air Freshener Scents

These are boiling/simmering air fresheners that will scent a fairly large area, oftentimes an entire house. However, these are not meant for ceramic burners. They are done over the stove. Fill a 2 quart pitcher full with water and 2 tbsp vinegar. Then, check to be sure you have all ingredients for your desired scent (listed below). Lastly, proceed with the following instructions.

Combine your ingredients in a medium-sized saucepan. Pour in the vinegar/water mixture. Bring this to a boil. Once it has been boiling long enough to melt any candy or other ingredients that will dissolve, turn the heat down to the lowest setting and let it simmer. Keep an eye on the pot to be sure there is enough water. You may have to refill the water every once in a while. This should last you all day if you continue to add water as needed. Be sure not to let the water get too low or your air freshener will burn and it will no longer smell very pretty.

Also, be sure you are not standing directly over the pan or the steam from these air fresheners, as they can be pretty strong. Inhaling them in this way could be dangerous.

*Note: Always ask your doctor before using these, as the aromas that will travel through your house might be naturally inhaled into your body. While they are naturally chemical-free, they still emit vapors into the air. The author is not responsible for any action that occurs as a result of your use or misuse of these air fresheners. Always use your own discretion, as well as the advice of your physician before proceeding.

**I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network

by Lyn Lomasi; Owner of Intent-sive Nature & the Brand Shamans network

Gutter systems can be made from a variety of materials including wood, steel, aluminum, copper and PVC. Aluminum gutters are among the highest-quality gutter systems for a variety of reasons. Rust is a common problem among gutters. However, when properly maintained and used under normal circumstances, aluminum gutters will not rust or corrode like other metal systems.

Versatility of Aluminum Gutters

Some would like their gutters to match their home. Aluminum gutters can be painted, which makes it easier to do this. Some other gutters cannot be painted, leaving less room for personalizing. Some might think that with such versatility, aluminum gutters must be costly. Quite the contrary. Because of the lightweight material, as well as other factors, aluminum gutters are very cost-effective compared with other systems.

More Customization Options

Another way to personalize aluminum gutters is to choose the shape that best matches your home. Aluminum gutters come in rounded shapes as well as those with more line definition. If you'd rather not paint your own gutters but still wish to choose a color, some vendors will offer pre-colored options, too.

Ease of Installation

Aluminum gutters are simple to install, which leaves you the option of installing them yourself or hiring someone else for the job. Since aluminum gutters are so simple to install, those looking to save money by doing the project themselves may want to choose aluminum gutters.

Saving Money & Time

The lightweight design also means that a support system is not required, which saves money and time. Aluminum gutters come in a variety of styles. One of those styles is seamless gutters. Seamless aluminum gutters can cut down on leaks since much of the gutter length is a single piece, therefore providing fewer cracks (or seams) for the water to leak through.

Vinegar is most commonly used in recipes, but were you aware that it has other benefits as well? Here are ten great uses for vinegar that you may not have thought about before. These are tailored toward regular distilled white vinegar.

Use Vinegar as a Bleach-Free Laundry Disinfectant

Do you dread using bleach to disinfect your clothes? Maybe you can't stand the smell or it makes you sick. Try using one half cup of vinegar and one fourth cup of baking soda along with your detergent in your load of laundry. It whitens, brightens, cleans, and disinfects your clothes.

Plus, it's much safer for the environment. Another bonus is that vinegar can be used on all colors. It's much less expensive than color-safe bleach, totaling about $1.50 per gallon versus 4 or 5 times that for color-safe bleach.

Use Vinegar to Clean the Fish Bowl or Tank

Do you have a fish tank or bowl with glass that is brown in some areas? When you clean the fish's residence, put a generous amount of vinegar on your cleaning cloth with a dab of liquid dish soap. The vinegar clears away the residue and disinfects the tank.

The combination of the vinegar and dish soap makes it easier to slide the cloth around. Your fish will finally be able to see you through his glass and you don't have to be embarrassed at a tank that looks as if its never been cleaned.

Vinegar Makes a Great Window Cleaner

Are you tired of spending money on expensive window cleaning sprays? Just get yourself a good water bottle. Then, fill it about two-thirds of the way with water. Next, put about 3 drops of liquid dish soap into the water. Finally, fill the remaining area with vinegar. Shake it a little bit. Let it sit for a few minutes and then voila!

Now you have a really good window-cleaning solution that costs less than a candy bar to refill and gives you a great streak-free clean for your windows and mirrors. I suggest keeping one in each bathroom, one in the kitchen, and one in each vehicle. With them in reach, you'll never have streaky, dirty windows and mirrors again.

Use Vinegar to Clean Moldy Tupperware

Does your husband tend to leave moldy storage containers and dishes in his work truck? Or maybe you leave it in the fridge too long. That's okay. Just empty them outside and bring them on in. Place them open in the sink. Put a dab of liquid dish soap in each one. Then, put about 2 tablespoons of vinegar in each. Fill the rest of the way with hot water and let them soak.

For the lids, fill the sink only high enough to cover them with a dab of dish soap and about one fourth cup of vinegar and the rest hot water. Once the lids and containers have soaked for at least 20 minutes, wash them as you normally would. I prefer to use the dishwasher as an extra disinfection/sterilization process.

Clean Your Countertops With Vinegar

Vinegar can replace your chemical-ridden kitchen counter cleaners. Just mix half vinegar and half water in a spray bottle. Spray the counters and wipe clean. You can also use hydrogen peroxide for this. If you like to see your cleaners soap up, just add a couple drops of dish soap to the solution.

The vinegar disinfects the counters and takes away odors as well. If you have a really tough stain, put a dash of baking soda on top of it. Then, spray with your vinegar solution and wipe clean. If there is white residue, you need to spray and wipe the vinegar solution until it is gone.

Vinegar Kills Fish Odors in the Microwave

Do you like to steam your fish in the microwave, but hate the smell? Place a cup or bowl of vinegar inside the microwave with your fish. Don't cook the fish in it. It should be beside the container the fish is in. The vinegar absorbs the odor.

Use Vinegar as a Deodorizer While Cooking

This trick is good if you are cooking something that is particularly pungent in odor, such as chitterlings, fish, or fried foods. Boil a pan of vinegar diluted halfway with water. This will help to absorb the odors. Just remember to start it before you start the "stinky" foods. This also works if you are baking something and don't want the smell to go throughout the house.

Vinegar Can Be Used to ease Heartburn

If you suffer from gas or heartburn frequently, you'll want to try this one. Drink a tablespoon of vinegar right before each meal. It helps to dissolve the acids, so there won't be as much left for the heartburn to feed off of.

Clean Your Refrigerator With Vinegar

Cleaning your refrigerator with vinegar frequently helps to kill germs and keep it smelling fresh. Use the same solution used to clean the counters above.

Use Vinegar To Ward off Stinky Feet

This is the really odd one. Do you know anyone who has smelly feet? Most people know at least one person who suffers from this. The person can soak their feet in a tub that has half water and half vinegar. The vinegar takes away the smell, kills germs, and relaxes sore muscles.

So, if you know anyone like this, you may want to hint about it. Try using the muscle relaxer part, though. You don't want to lose a good friend by telling them their feet stink, unless you have the kind of relationship where this conversation would be acceptable.

Know of any other awesome uses for vinegar? Comment below!

Cottonballs are most often used for makeup removal, facial cleansing, and in removing nail polish, but did you ever think of all the other possible uses there may be? Here are ten excellent uses for cottonballs you may have never thought about.

Use cottonballs as stuffing -- Cottonballs make great stuffing for craft pillows and other stuffed crafts. They are all cotton, so they are washable. Just be sure to use plenty when stuffing and to dry the item well if you ever have to wash it.

Hard-to-reach sink cracks are no trouble for cottonballs -- Have you ever tried to get underneath, behind, and between your faucets when washing the sinks? Now you can. Use a cottonball. It flattens easily and can slide where your cloth or sponge cannot.

Quick bandages are a snap with cottonballs -- Have you ever needed a bandage when you were out of them or on the run? If you keep cottonballs and medical tape around the house, you can make a quick band-aid that works well on any sized cut. Try keeping a small baggie with cottonballs and medical tape in your purse. You never know when you may think of something else to use them for as well.

Need a quick can cover? Try a cottonball -- Have you ever opened a can of pop, only to realize you couldn't finish it? Just stick a cottonball in the hole at the top and put in the refridgerator. It won't go flat as quick it would without the cottonball. The cottonball absorbs the air. Just don't push too hard or you'll have a cottonball in your drink. Then, it won't be fresh at all.

Cottonballs keep the tears away -- Have you ever had to deal with a child who is afraid of the water getting in their eyes when shampooing their hair? Chances are you have. If your child is old enough, give the child a cottonball for each eye. Have the child close the eyes and hold a cottonball over each eye whenever you wash the hair. It helps keep the water out. Keep in mind that if you dump a large amount of water over the child's head, the cottonballs will not protect the eyes. You must also be cautious, as always.

Use a cottonball, not your fingers -- Are you not particularly fond of having diaper rash cream lingering on your hand or finger? Have no fear, cottonballs are here. Just use the cottonball to spread the cream onto the affected area.

Use a cottonball to swipe your data of fingerprints -- Do your DVDs and other CDs have your children's evidence stamped on them in the form of tiny fingerprints? Just dip a cottonball into some rubbing alcohol and wipe away the evidence.

Cottonballs make great pencil holder protectors -- Are you a perfectionist who can't stand the little pencil and pen marks at the bottom of the pencil holder? Just place some cottonballs in the bottom of the pencil holder and voila! This also takes away the annoying clinking noise the utensils make when you put them in the holder, also a must for perfectionists.

Make a Santa beard from cottonballs -- Does your child need a Santa beard and fast? Just glue some cottonballs together in a triangular shape with white glue (not school glue, just plain white all-purpose glue). You can attach it to your child's face using pipe cleaners. Just attach the pipe cleaners to the cottonball concoction by twisting them around the tips of each side and then bring the pipe cleaners around your child's ears like glasses.

Prevent scratches on your computer desk with cottonballs -- Does your computer keyboard, laptop, or monitor make scratches on your nice desk? Just glue cottonballs to the bottom corners or all along the entire bottom edge with E-6000 glue.

Hydrogen Peroxide is most commonly used to treat cuts and scrapes, but did you know there were many other uses as well? Even if you knew, aren't you curious to see how many you've tried and how many you haven't?

Helpful Hints Before Using Hydrogen Peroxide

Before using any of these, you should remember to always keep the peroxide in the dark container it comes in. Once it has been exposed to air and light, it loses some of its efficacy. It is best to use it straight from the bottle and right away after you take it from the bottle with a cloth or tissue.

It's also important to remember to be safe with peroxide. If swallowed, it can be harmful and should be kept out of reach of children. Should accidental poisoning occur, you should contact a poison control center and possibly 911 immediately. If a large amount is swallowed, 911 should be called rather than poison control. This goes for adults as well as children.

Ten Awesome Uses For Hydrogen Peroxide

Mouthwash - Hydrogen Peroxide can be used as an alternative to mouthwash. It disinfects the mouth, freshens the breath, and whitens the teeth all in one step. Of course, you'll still need toothpaste, but you won't need your mouthwash anymore. This costs less and is more effective. Just ask your dentist or doctor about it and they're likely to agree. Use it every day right after each brushing and flossing. All you need is about a capful. Swish it around for 30 seconds, just like mouthwash. Don't rinse your mouth out afterwards.

Countertop & Cutting Board Sanitizer - If you need to sanitize your countertops, hydrogen peroxide will do so, killing the germs and even salmonella. Fill a spray bottle with half water and half hydrogen peroxide, spray and wipe clean. Keep in mind that using this solution will discolor or damage some surfaces, so do a spot test in an inconspicuous area first and then wait 24 hours to see what happens. You can also use hydrogen peroxide as an effective means of sanitizing your cutting boards. It will kill salmonella and other harmful bacteria. Use the same solution as you would for sanitizing countertops.

Toothbrush Rinse - Rinse your toothbrush with hydrogen peroxide before and after each use to keep it sanitary.

Bleach Alternative - If you need an alternative to bleach, you can add 1/2 cup hydrogen peroxide to your load of laundry. It even gets out blood. Be careful, though because it really does bleach. Don't use it any dyed clothing, only whites.

Fight Mold -  Peroxide is effective against some toxic molds, but be aware that it doesn't kill germs from all of them, so it's best to leave it up to the professionals. However, I do recommend applying it in areas of your bathroom that are prone to mold, such as the cracks in the caulking of the bathtub and shower.

Computer Keys & Screen - Peroxide is a great cleaner for your computer keys as well. It kills the bacteria and air dries quickly, so the equipment doesn't get damaged. While you're at it, it's also safe for the screen, outside of the computer, outside of speakers, and the outside of any other equipment.

Bathroom Mirrors - Peroxide cleans the bathroom mirrors without leaving behind any smears, plus since it kills bacteria, you have the added benefit of knowing it's okay for your kids to kiss the mirror. Oh, come on, you know they love to do it.

Treat Acne - You can use peroxide to treat acne as well. It's the main ingredient in most acne medicines and the other ingredients in them aren't necessary. Just apply it to the affected area once or twice a day and watch how quickly the acne disappears.

Kill Bathroom Bacteria - You can keep a spray bottle of peroxide in the bathroom. Use it to spray the shower/tub, sink, and toilet area to keep away bacteria and viruses. Spray regularly.

Clean Off Fruits & Veggies - You can use it to clean fruits and vegetables. Here's how: Fill your sink with cold water. Then, add 1/4 cup peroxide and some salt. Scrub the vegetables and rinse them. This kills any lingering viruses or bacteria. It also keeps the food fresher longer.

If you don't have hydrogen peroxide in your cabinet, get some today!

Decorating the home can be expensive, but it doesn't have to be. There are many ways to enhance the inside of the home without draining the wallet. I've always been quite cheap...frugal, I mean. Plus, I've worked at a large craft supply store (one that included home decor), as well as a home improvement retailer. Based on my experience, here are five cheap decorating ideas for your home.

Portrait Walls Are Great For Decorating a Home

This may sound costly, but it doesn't have to be. Low cost frames from discount and dollar stores work just fine for this. Cheap decorating doesn’t always equate ugly. In fact, those cheap frames are often better because they are usually easier to paint and glue things onto for customization purposes.

For a bright look, try gluing the buds of silk sunflowers around the edge of the photo frames. These can be found at dollar and discount stores as well. To bring a room together, try painting the frames to match the furniture or using glued-on silk flowers and other items to match the mood and colors. Digital photo copies and prints can be done at home or sent to a printer for a nominal fee.

Throws and Decorative Scarves

Throws and decorative scarves are a great way to add some color to a room without spending much money. Check thrift stores and bargain bins for these cheap decorating accents. They can be draped over a couch or chair. They also can be placed on coffee tables and stands. If you have a piece of furniture you're getting tired of or one that's worn out, cover it with a throw or scarf and beautify it once again. It's almost like having a new piece of furniture.

Decorating Ideas Using Fresh Flowers

Many people have gotten so used to silk flowers that they've forgotten about the fresh ones. Fresh flowers can be found right in your own backyard or a nearby field. Be careful not to pick flowers where you're not allowed.

Stick to wild flowers (not purposefully planted ones) on public property or those you’ve planted yourself. Flowers are often free and placing them in a vase on a coffee table, stand, kitchen table, or counter top can really brighten a room.

Stenciling Ideas for Decorating the Home Cheap

No, I'm not talking about hiring some specialist to come stencil an elaborate design. Head to your local craft store, pick out a simple design that fits the style of your chosen room, and grab the appropriate paints. You can stencil things like wooden chests, dressers, stands, and more.

You may even want to try stenciling a border on your walls. Stenciling is relatively low in cost if you do it yourself and it can really enhance the look of a room or piece of furniture. The paints can be found on discount at craft supply and home improvement stores.

Homemade Masks as Wall Decor

Wall masks can add an interesting new look to a room. Choose from Native American, African, theater, clown, and many more. You can make the masks yourself out of papier mache or plaster of Paris. It's easy to find instructions for many different types by doing a simple web search.

I've also found cheap, but still great looking masks at dollar stores, thrift stores, and craft stores.Remember that you can always glue on items or paint over any designs you don’t like if you find plain or decorated masks for cheap.

The bathroom is one place that should not be dirty. It is the room that is used to get clean in, therefore to get you the cleanest, it should be as clean as possible at all times. As a cleanliness-conscious as well as natural-conscious mother, I have researched and experimented with several different cleaning methods for all areas of the house. Some were better than others, healthwise as well as in regards to cleanliness. Here are ten simple ways to keep the bathroom germ-free, plus instructions on preparing the products you will need.

Materials:

Hydrogen Peroxide
2 Black or Brown Spray Bottles
Eco-Friendly Paper Towels
White Vinegar
Baking Soda
Vinyl Gloves

Preparation:

Fill one spray bottle with hydrogen peroxide. Then, fill the other spray bottle with vinegar. Have your paper towels and baking soda handy. Put on your gloves. The cleaning rituals described below should be performed at least once per week, but preferably more often.

Treat For Mold to Help Keep the Bathroom Germ Free

Even when mold is not visible, it’s still important to treat for it. You can do this easily by using your hydrogen peroxide spray bottle to spray all around the cracks of the bathtub, shower, toilet, and sinks. Spray all around each and be sure to get behind them where possible.

The tiles in the bathtub and shower and any other tiles on the walls should also be sprayed down. Don’t forget about corners and crevices. Once you are done spraying, let the peroxide soak in for about 15 minutes. Then, spray it again and wipe clean with a paper towel. Do not rinse it. This helps the peroxide disinfect the mold-causing agents.

If there is already mold damage, I suggest treating it as suggested above, then respraying and leaving it on for 24 hours. If mold is visible, rotate the two methods every other day. Do this until the mold is no longer visible. Then, just use the normal cleaning method as often as necessary to keep your bathroom clean.

Keep The Toilet Germ-Free

The toilet is arguably the place where you leave the dirtiest messes. After all, you are using it to get rid of your body's waste. You certainly wouldn't want that waste building up inside your body, so why would you want it building up inside your toilet and around your bathroom?

First, you need to shut off the water in the toilet. Usually the shut-off valve is located directly behind the toilet. Once you have turned the valve off, flush the toilet. All of the water should go down. If not, flush it until it does.

Now, lift the toilet seat. Spray your vinegar all over the inside of the toilet. You are choosing vinegar because its acidic properties break down food materials and also kill bacteria. Leave the vinegar there for 15 minutes. Next, spray your peroxide in the same area and wipe clean with paper towels.

The paper towels will need to be disposed of right away. I recommend using a grocery bag to collect the paper towels from the bathroom. Then, when you are finished with the whole process, take the grocery bag to your dumpster or outdoor trash can. Turn the water back on and flush the toilet.

Every time a toilet is flushed, the unseen germs float into the air, settling on all other surfaces, even those five to seven feet away. To help prevent this, always flush the toilet with the lid down. Once it has stopped "hissing", if you're concerned about the contents, lift the lid to be sure everything went down. If not, repeat with the lid closed.

Keeping Floors and Throw Rugs Dry Helps Avoid Bathroom Germs

Floors and rugs are one of the biggest harborers of mold and mildew in the bathroom. They are likely tied with the cracks in the shower and tub. Wet rugs and floors cause mold quickly and easily. To keep your floors and rugs dry, each time a shower is taken, you should check underneath your rugs. If the rug is damp underneath or on top, simply hang it up to dry over the shower curtain rod.

You can spray it with your vinegar spray bottle for disinfection. If it is dirty, follow the fourth tip instead. If you have carpeting in your bathroom, you should really consider taking it out. Carpeting in the bathroom can cause unseen mold damage and germs.

Keep Floors Disinfected and Clean Rugs Often

Bacteria thrives in dirty and wet environments. To help keep your bathroom germ-free, your floors need to be clean at all times and your throw rugs also need to be kept clean.

Sometimes the throw rugs don't get washed as often as necessary because people simply forget about them. All rugs that are kept on the bathroom floor should be cleaned at least once per week. The best kind to use are ones which can be placed in the washing machine. Use the hot or sanitary setting, using 2 cups of vinegar and 1/2 cup of baking soda as your detergent to wash the rugs.

Put the baking soda in the powdered detergent dispenser and the vinegar in the fabric softener dispenser. If you like it to be scented, you can add a tablespoon of tea tree oil. The vinegar acts as a cleanser, disinfectant, and fabric softener. The baking soda acts as a cleanser and fabric softener. Liquid fabric softener is not recommended because it will sometimes ruin the fibers in rugs.

You may need to use the gentle cycle, depending on your rugs. If the rug has backing, you may or may not be able to use the washer. Some rugs cannot be placed in the dryer, so they will need to air dry either outside or in, being careful to allow for plenty of air circulation to prevent mold from forming on the wet areas.

Be sure the rugs are completely dry before placing them back in their proper locations. If the rug has a backing, spray the backing with hydrogen peroxide and allow to air dry before placing it back on the bathroom floor.

Keep Sinks, Tubs, and Showers Clean to Help Keep the Bathroom Free of Germs

Since these are used to keep yourself clean, you need to keep them as clean as possible. For this job, you will use the vinegar spray bottle. Plug the drains and spray away. You need to cover the entire area. Let it soak for a few minutes. Then, use eco-friendly paper towels or a cloth to wipe the surface clean. Repeat if necessary until the area is clean.

The first time you do this, it may take more than one time, but afterwards, it should be much quicker. If you use cloths, throw them in the wash immediately, following the same washing instructions as the rugs, minus instructions for backings.

Keeping Countertops Dry Helps Keep the Germs Away

Wet countertops can lead to mold and bacteria. The water and other liquids sink into the cracks, crevices, and pores of the areas, causing a great home for the mold to live. To prevent this, always wipe away any wetness from all surfaces immediately. You can use either the vinegar or peroxide spray bottles to do this. Both will be effective in helping keep your bathroom countertops free of germs.

Keep Bathroom Countertops Germ-Free By Keeping them Clean

Germs from other areas, such as the toilet, settle onto countertops and they are also invisible, so it is important to clean countertops often. Using your vinegar spray bottle, spray the countertops and other surfaces daily and wipe them clean with a cloth or the eco-friendly paper towels.

Depending on the size and habits of your household, you may need to do this more than once per day. One helpful memory trick is to wash these surfaces each time you need to use the toilet. This way, it gets done often.

Avoid Carpeting in the Bathroom to Help Dispel Germs

Carpeting is a bad idea for a bathroom because mold and mildew can build up underneath the carpeting. Even if you cannot see it, it may still be there. Steam and other wetness from the bathroom absorbs into the carpeting and goes underneath the surface creating an ideal environment for mold spores to survive and thrive.

Carpets are also an easy environment for things like urine and spills to collect because they get stuck deep in the fibers, even with regular cleaning. This creates a big problem with germs in the bathroom.

Disinfect Bathroom Walls Completely

Like the countertops, walls are a resting place for bacteria. Because many people are focusing on the other surfaces in the bathroom, the walls are often neglected or forgotten. To clean your walls, use the vinegar spray bottle and the eco-friendly paper towels. This should be done at least weekly, more often if there are visible stains to the wall or you have a large number of household members.

Disinfect Hard-To-Reach Areas Frequently

Areas that are hard to reach, such as ceilings, tops of mirrors, shelf tops, and on top of the medicine cabinet are often neglected in the bathroom. Be sure to clean these weekly with the vinegar spray bottle and eco-friendly paper towels. The more surfaces you can keep clean and disinfected, the less you will need to deal with bathroom germs.

The season has quickly changed from summer to fall and it's time to start decorating accordingly. Flowers are easy to incorporate into any theme and can be used in a variety of interesting ways. There is no limit to the decorating possibilities with seasonal fall flowers. Here are five fun ways to decorate with seasonal fall flowers.

Decorate Door Frames With Seasonal Fall Flowers

Seasonal fall flowers can be used to create strands that can be hung around door frames. This can be done with both silk and fresh flowers. When using fresh flowers, be sure to dry them first and spray them with a floral acrylic coating to protect them. Sunflowers are great for decorating door frames, as they accommodate the large space. Because of the yellow color, they also can brighten a room.

Make Your Table Fun With Seasonal Fall Flowers

These, of course can be used to make great table arrangements, but there are more ways to use them on the table as well. Flower garlands can be wrapped around the table legs. Also try sprinkling flower buds and stems around the tabletop. Marigolds and daisies in varied colors are great for this. Fresh or silk can be used.

Fun Ways to Decorate Countertops With Seasonal Fall Flowers

Seasonal fall flowers can be put in a simple vase on the countertop. Also try laying out a flower garland and winding it around existing countertop decor. Just as on the table, another fun way to decorate with seasonal fall flowers is by sprinkling them around the countertop. Be sure you do this in a designated are, of course. You still need some counter space for other things.

Accent Furniture With Seasonal Fall Flowers

Seasonal fall flowers are fun to use in various places around the house. Try wrapping seasonal fall flower garlands around assorted pieces of furniture. Lamp posts and chair legs are great spots for this. Also experiment with wrapping them around the edges of tables and stands. Yellow fall flowers are great for rooms that need brightening. Orange fall flowers can balance an extra bright room. Choose red for a more romantic feel.

Use Seasonal Fall Flowers to Make Your Walls More Fun

Seasonal fall flowers can be used on the wall in all sorts of fun ways. Create swags and hang them in various places. It can also be fun to wind flower garlands around wall sconces, picture frames, and other wall decor. Try letting seasonal fall garland strands cascade over other decor for a natural look. This can be especially fun to do in between picture frames and other grouped wall decor. Don't be afraid to experiment.