Painted Furniture Ideas

Painted Commode

Painting furniture is a creative way to extend the life of older furniture. The history of painted furniture dates back thousands of years with cultural influences from around the world. You can turn a castaway into an instant family heirloom that looks like it is straight out of the latest design magazine or upscale furniture boutique. Does this Spark an idea?

Distressing

A distressed paint finish recreates the patina of weathered wood furniture. This treatment looks right at home on furniture in country, cottage or traditional homes. Materials include an old-fashioned milk paint base coat, paste wax, an eggshell top coat and fine grit sandpaper to create areas of wear. For greater visual impact, apply contrasting base and top coats. Use monochromatic colors to give your distressed furniture a casual yet sophisticated look.

Hand Painted Designs

Paint original or reproduced designs on furniture for a custom look in your bedroom, office or kitchen. Prime the piece, apply a base coat and draw freehand designs or use carbon paper to transfer an image copied from another source. Paint the designs with acrylic craft paints and protect the finish with a clear water-based sealer.

Crackle Finish

Crackle is a popular effect that gives furniture the appearance of aged, cracked paint. You will need a water-based, satin base coat, crackle medium and a flat top coat in whatever color you want. A heavy application of crackle medium will result in larger cracks in the finished furniture piece. For a delicately crazed appearance, apply a light, even coat of the medium. Crackle painted furniture adds authenticity to a primitive country-inspired dining room.

Romantic White

A simple and classic look for a beach house or shabby country cottage is crisp white painted furniture. Use white primer, an off-white flat paint, fine grit sandpaper and paste wax to transform your tired maple bedroom set into a romantically chic masterpiece. Before you get started, try adding a couple of appliques to dress up an otherwise boring headboard or dresser. Use a wash of brown acrylic paint and water or glaze to bring out the hidden details of your furniture pieces.

Stamped Designs

This is a furniture painting idea for the entire family. Borrow your child's rubber stamps and start creating. This furniture effect is similar in appearance to hand painted or stenciled pieces with little effort and talent needed. Purchase a water-based, satin paint as a base coat and use an assortment of acrylic craft paint colors for stamping. Stamped furniture is a playful addition to a child's bedroom or family room.

Tags: base coat, acrylic craft, country cottage, crackle medium, fine grit, fine grit sandpaper

Preserve Old Bibles

Old Bible

The reasons for wanting to preserve old Bibles can be for sentimental value, as well as for practicality. Most Bibles have thin pages that get enough damage from regular use, so when it comes time to preserve an old Bible, special care must be taken not only to protect the pages, but the binding and cover as well.

Instructions

1. Remove any old documents that are placed in the Bible. These items can damage an old Bible by transferring acid to the pages and wiping away the print. The items can also damage the binding because of the extra thickness they create between the pages.

2. Keep an old Bible in a dark, dry place. A closet works well, as does a cabinet. This will protect it from light and moisture damage. It is best to avoid keeping the Bible stored in the kitchen or cellar. These rooms tend to hold more moisture than others.

3. Purchase an archival box. This type of box can protect an old Bible from dust, dirt, acid, and light exposure. While you might be able to find an archival box at a local office supply or discount department store, you can always find them online at places like Archival Methods (see Resources).

4. Place a slipcase over the Bible. This is a good option only if you really want to display the old Bible. It is not the best way to protect the Bible, though. This method will only provide minimal protection.

Tags: protect Bible

The Best Method To Paint A Shaker Tray

Use an etching primer on metal shaker trays.

Shaker trays hold shakers used to mix alcoholic beverages. You may have a wood, glass or metal shaker tray as part of your home liquor cabinet. Alter the color of your shaker tray by applying a bright, glossy enamel. Prepare the tray based on its condition and composition, or peeling will result. Paint the tray using the correct method to avoid unsightly sags and runs in the finish.

Instructions

1. Sand your varnished shaker tray until it has a dull appearance.

2. Run the shaker tray through the dishwasher. Let the tray air dry for 12 to 24 hours.

3. Place the shaker tray on a canvas drop cloth.

4. Coat unfinished wood shaker trays with acrylic spray primer. If the shaker tray is stained wood, use a shellac spray primer. Apply galvanized metal-etching spray primer to metallic shaker trays. Let the shaker tray dry for three hours.

5. Finish the primed shaker tray with a glossy, enduring acrylic enamel. Don't use the tray until the finish has cured for four hours.

Tags: shaker tray, spray primer, metal shaker, shaker tray, shaker trays, tray until

Install Zend Optimizer On Redhat Enterprise Linux (Rhel)

If you are setting up a web server then having Zend's "Optimizer" for your server is a necessary evil for just about any client who uses PHP.

Sometimes it can be tricky to install, I will guide you through the process.

Instructions

1. SSH and connect to your box as your wheel group user, and then "su -" to root.

2. Download the file you need from Zend directly. This page requires you to setup a free account with them to access the download page.

http://www.zend.com/free_download/optimizer

3. Once you have the file, copy it to your ~ directory on the linux server.

4. If you have a GZ file:

gzip -d ~/ZendOptimizer-3.3.0-linux-glibc21-i386.tar.gz

Now that you have a tar (or started with a tar)

tar -xvf ~/ZendOptimizer-3.3.0-linux-glibc21-i386.tar

5. Change directory and then run the installer script.

cd ~/ZendOptimizer-3.3.0-linux-glibc21-i386

./install.sh

6. make sure that the end of your php.ini file looks like this - if not change it (this is assuming your installing version 3.3.0)

[Zend]

zend_extension_manager.optimizer=/usr/local/Zend/lib/Optimizer-3.3.0

zend_extension_manager.optimizer_ts=/usr/local/Zend/lib/Optimizer_TS-3.3.0

zend_optimizer.version=3.3.0

zend_extension=/usr/local/Zend/lib/ZendExtensionManager.so

zend_extension_ts=/usr/local/Zend/lib/ZendExtensionManager_TS.so

7. Save and close the file if you change it. Then restart Apache to pick up the changes.

/sbin/service httpd restart

8. Now verify from the php CLI that its installed and working.

php -v

You should see something similar to

PHP 5.2.3 (cli) (built: Jun 7 2007 08:59:02)

Copyright (c) 1997-2007 The PHP Group

Zend Engine v2.2.0, Copyright (c) 1998-2007 Zend Technologies

with Zend Extension Manager v1.2.0, Copyright (c) 2003-2007, by Zend Technologies

with Zend Optimizer v3.3.0, Copyright (c) 1998-2007, by Zend Technologies

Tags: local Zend, Zend Optimizer, Zend Technologies, ZendOptimizer-3 0-linux-glibc21-i386, 1998-2007 Zend, 1998-2007 Zend Technologies

Make Japanese Cushions

Japanese cushions come in many sizes and variations. The most common form is the zabuton, a floor cushion with a multi-functional purpose. Essentially they're floor cushions, which are also used on chairs or any hard surface where comfort is of concern. In modern times, Americans who practice meditation often use them in conjunction with a smaller, but thicker cushion called a zafu to balance the weight of the pelvis when the body is in a meditative position. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Cut two square pieces of fabric. The size will depend on how big a cushion you plan to make. Traditionally, the Japanese zabuton is 24 square inches, but this is by no means a requirement. As long as you can sit comfortably on it without bruising your legs, the size is adequate.

2. Sew the zipper on one side of each piece of fabric, so the completed project will possess the ability to be opened on one side to remove and replace stuffing as needed. The zipper needs to face inward at this point, as you'll eventually turn the fabric inside out before inserting the stuffing.

3. Sew the other sides of the cushion together, with the side of the fabric that will be on the outside facing towards each other right now.

4. Invert the cushion so the correct sides face outward. Three of the sides should be completely sewn up now, and only the side with the zipper attached should be open.

5. Stuff the cushion with cotton or polyester batting. Tear little pieces of the batting off and fluff the fibers before stuffing them. Fight the urge to throw all the batting in at once; this won't be comfortable and will actually turn the cushion lumpy. The amount of stuffing you need will depend on whether it's going to function more as a floor cushion or if it will be on a chair more often. The latter probably won't need to be as thick as a zabuton that will strictly be used on the floor. If you plan to place a zafu cushion on top of it, for comfort reasons it will need to be rather thin to allow for the thickness of the zafu.

6. Close the zipper when there's enough batting to give the zabuton enough thickness for your satisfaction.

7. Sew a loop of heavy thread into each corner of the cushion, so both ends of the thread stick out of the cushion's top. Make each of the four loops into a separate bow or loose knot, to keep the batting from shifting inside the cushion. The bows shouldn't be too tight, because you'll undo them when you replace the batting. This step is optional, but recommended if you want to extend the lifespan of the stuffing.

Tags: cushion with, floor cushion, that will, will depend

Ideas Of Modern Minimalist Interior Designs

Clean lines and an uncluttered look are the mainstays of modern minimalist interior designs. Warmth is created through the use of texture, and stainless steel or chrome is often used on furniture. Artwork is kept to a minimum; designers use a few large pieces to add interest as well as focal points to the openness of the space. Does this Spark an idea?

What is Minimalism?

Minimalism is a way of thinking of and viewing the world and the space you live in. Minimalist design can be modern or even retro in appearance. "Minimalism is a state of mind," according to an article by Home-Decorating-Reviews.com titled "The Minimalist Choice." This state of mind creates order where chaos and clutter exist. This movement began after World War II and continues today. However, today's minimalism is more relaxed.

There are certain characteristics of minimalist design: Everything in a room serves a function, floor plans are open and there is a feeling of order and tranquility.

Space

In order to create a sense of openness and take advantage of natural light, modern minimalist design calls for exterior walls of windows or glass. This open living space is often divided into smaller areas by using bookcases or low cabinets in place of walls. Clusters of furniture can also be used to divide the open space into smaller areas. Fabric is another choice and might be hung from the ceiling to divide or define the open space. Thus, separate living areas are created without the use of walls.

Color and Texture

Walls are primarily neutral and are painted in taupe, brown, cream or beige. Bold primary-color accents may be found in artwork that adorns the walls.

In order to create the feeling of comfort in a modern minimalist-designed home, the designer uses on sofas and chairs fabrics that have a soft texture, such as velour or microfiber. Plush or shaggy rugs also provide that same comfortable feeling to the space.

Lighting

Natural light is optimized. Track lighting, art lamps and accent lights are used to augment natural light.

Furniture and Floors

Furniture design is streamlined and is generally done in neutral-colored fabrics or leather. Stainless steel and chrome are commonly used on fixtures and furniture. Lacquer is used on cabinets. The lines of the furniture are usually curved and rounded.

Floors can be concrete, linoleum, natural stone or tile, as well as wood.

Ornamentation

Ornamentation is definitely not a minimalist design element. Instead, modern minimalist design relies on form, color and texture. The design is simple and uncluttered. Strong geometric shapes and asymmetry take center stage. Windows generally are without trim work. Designers strive to create harmony and spirituality within the open spaces of a modern minimalist interior.

Tags: modern minimalist, into smaller, into smaller areas, minimalist design, minimalist design, minimalist interior, modern minimalist design

Sell Used Office Furniture In Chicago

If you are replacing some of the furniture in your Chicago office, you may not want to keep the used office furniture that you are replacing. Instead of tossing it out or putting the used furniture in storage, you can try to sell it in the local area. Specialized used office furniture stores do exist in Chicago, but that is not your only option for selling the items. You can sell the furniture on your own using traditional methods, such as listing the items for sale in the local area.

Instructions

1. Clean the furniture and inspect it for any defects or problems. Usually you can only sell used office furniture that is in good, clean condition and free of problems.

2. Consult with a local used office furniture store to see if they will buy your furniture. Some Chicago stores that offer this service include Refurbished Office Environments, Direct Office Furniture Warehouse and Villa Park Office Equipment.

3. Ask around your building to see if any of the other companies are in need of office furniture, if you work in a building with multiple companies.

4. List the used office furniture for sale in your local newspaper or online on a site such as Craigslist. To price the items, look for ads selling similar items to see what the going market rate is in Chicago for the items that you have. Include photos in the ad, if you have the option to do so.

Tags: used office, used office furniture, office furniture, furniture that, furniture your

Make A Club Penguin Video

Club Penguin is an online game for kids of all ages where you can create your own penguin, interact with your friends and play games on the club penguin site. You can also record your own video on Club Penguin using software you can download from the Internet.

Instructions

1. Download a video software program from the Internet. There are many free video software programs that will work but for this example, we will use CamStudio. Type CamStudio in Google to find the CamStudio site for the download.

2. Log onto Club Penguin by typing in your username and password once the CamStudio program has been downloaded.

3. Choose an area in the game where you want to make your club penguin video.

4. Click on CamStudio to open it and go into options. Click "hide cursor" if you wish to hide the cursor. Click "OK."

5. Click the red circle on the far left top of the main page in CamStudio to begin recording.

6. Drag a box around the area you want to film. After you draw the box, it will begin recording.

Tags: Club Penguin, begin recording, from Internet, hide cursor, video software

The Best Gas String Trimmers

Gas trimmers offer freedom from an electric cord.

Gas string trimmers are handy garden tools for trimming grass and weeds to a desired height, especially around edges or obstacles. String trimmers are also known as line trimmers or weed whackers. Gas models are very powerful. Compared to electric trimmers, gas string trimmers are heavier, noisier and usually more expensive. Using them requires keeping gas, oil or both on hand. But gas trimmers offer the advantage of freedom from an electric cord or any risk of shock. Does this Spark an idea?

Best Overall Gas String Trimmer

For most consumers, the best overall gas string trimmer is the Echo SRM 225, according to Consumer Search. Although it has a small engine, it has plenty of power and is adequate for most homeowners. It is lighter than the average gas trimmer, weighing only about 11 lbs. It has a long shaft which is easy on the back and makes it easier to trim under bushes. Maintenance on the Echo SRM 225 is simple, and most commonly replaced parts are readily accessible. Best of all, this trimmer is built for long-term use and has a 5-year warranty.

Two-Stroke Engine

For consumers looking for an economical choice, choose a two-stroke engine. Two-stroke engines are often easier to start, lighter and require less maintenance than four-stroke engines. They usually run on a mixture of gas and oil. A good choice in a two-cycle string trimmer is the Husqvarna 125L, according to Popular Mechanics. It is a low weight trimmer and has a straight shaft for above average control. The trimmer is specially designed for easy starting and has excellent power. Its large loop handle makes it easier to rotate and use in multiple positions.

Four-Stroke Engine

Most four-stroke engines are more efficient and quieter than two-stroke engines. If you have a large yard or a lot of overgrowth, a four-stroke engine may be the right choice for you. Four-stroke engines usually run smoother than two-cycle engines and they don't require a gas/oil mixture. The Craftsman 79194 is dependable and easy to start, according to Consumer Search. It has a quiet engine and is convenient to use for both right- and left-handed individuals.

Other Choices

Stihl is well-known for producing quality lawn products. Another highly recommended gas string trimmer is the Stihl FS 55, according to Popular Mechanics. This trimmer is built for bigger jobs and extended use. It has low emissions and is easy to start. Shindaiwa T222 has a high torque engine and performs like a professional trimmer, allowing you to trim your lawn without struggling.

Tags: string trimmer, according Consumer, according Consumer Search, according Popular, according Popular Mechanics, Consumer Search

Oil Teak Patio Furniture

Take care of your teak

Teak has a classic look on the patio. It's sturdy and withstands the weather quite well. Over time, it gets dull from exposure to rain and sun, so get out the teak oil. It's time to tend to your teak patio furniture. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Take a cloth or soft brush and clean off any dust or splashed on dirt. If the patio furniture has a grimy look, it may need some washing to remove pollution and soot accumulation on the wood. I used Murphy's Oil Soap on mine. Regular detergent is a little harsh for wood. Let it dry thoroughly before proceeding to the oil treatment.

2. Get a large can of teak oil for your patio furniture project. Any brand will do. Shake up the oil and open the can. Wear plastic or rubber gloves. Put a soft rag over the opening and tilt the can.

3. Wipe the oiled rag over the wood, following the grain. Look for lines in the wood and follow their direction (that's the grain).

4. Stand back and look for lighter colored areas. That's where you applied the oil too lightly or the rag was too dry. Go over those spots again so the teak patio furniture is completely covered.

5. Dip the old toothbrush in the oil. Use it to get oil into narrow areas around joints or around screw heads. You can't reach these with the oily rag.

6. The next day, check the teak patio tables and chairs to see if they need further touch up with the teak oil. If the wood was very dehydrated, it soaks up the oil and may still look dried out in some areas. Apply more oil with the rag to areas that look lighter in color.

Tags: patio furniture, look lighter, teak patio, teak patio furniture, your teak

The Best Deck Designs For Pets

Choose decking materials that are easy to keep clean and pet safe.

When designing a deck with a pet in mind, the first consideration should be that of safety. When you consider safety, you need to think in terms of specifics for your pet. The best deck design is one that works for your individual living arrangements. Consider the age of your pets. If steep or winding stairs are part of your design, make them wide enough for an aging pet to navigate. Does this Spark an idea?

Railings, Gates and Stairs

If dogs are the pets that share your life, safety is the first concern in deck design. Elevated decks need to have secure railings with openings small enough to keep your dog contained. Design deck gates that swing out of view when not needed but that will provide a totally enclosed deck space when in use. Design railings and gates for the dogs you have now and any that you might acquire. That railing that your German shepherd dog can't get under might look like an open invitation to a small puppy. Designing with the future in mind will save you the price of deck renovations down the line.

When it comes to stairs design what works best for humans and pets. Consider solid sides for a steep set of stairs. For the safety of your pets, close in step risers, and build steps that have a wide stepping area. Avoid excessively steep, narrow stairs if you can. Ramps are applicable for older pets in the place of stairs. Design ramps to provide a skid-free surface to enable older pets to join you.

Built Ins and Shade

When planning your deck design, include a built-in area with ramps to raised dog bed platforms or fancy dog houses that can be enjoyed by your pet when they are on the deck. If your deck serves as the only backyard that you have, consider building in a space for one of the new small-space dog potty stations. These custom options can be built seamlessly into the design of the deck specifically to suit the needs of your pet. If you like your pet to join you while you enjoy a good book, build a double-sized lounging platform into your plans. Also consider an area of the deck to be a shade area. Consider a pergola or shade providing cover to offer an area for lounging that is out of the direct sun. Design the deck based on the way you enjoy your time with your pet.

Space for Custom Enclosures

If you share your life with a pet that can climb or fly, consider a deck that has room for a built-in enclosure. The enclosure will allow your pet to enjoy the space with you, but not necessarily always on a leash or tether. Incorporate the design of a kitty condo and play area that can be landscaped into your deck to provide not only necessary and safe pet space, but an area that is visibly appealing. These areas are suitable for any cat or small companion animal that can climb. If birds share your life, build an aviary suitable for their outdoor safety and enjoyment. Find a craftsman who can custom make a cover for the enclosure to keep unwanted pests away when they are not being enjoyed by your pet.

Tags: deck design, share your, share your life, your deck, your life, area that

Where Donate A Mattress

Not every charity will take a used mattress.

Your new mattress has arrived, so what do you do with the old one? It's estimated 300 mattresses are dumped in landfills each day, and at an average of 23 cubic feet each, they take up a lot of space. Instead of adding to the trash, consider donation. Does this Spark an idea?

Considerations

Before you donate your used mattress, you need to make sure it is clean and in good repair. Organizations won't accept mattresses with visible stains, structural problems or tears.

Laws

In some areas, throwing away a mattress is illegal, meaning recycling and donation are your only options.

Who Won't Take Them

Charities like Salvation Army and Goodwill Industries usually don't take mattresses, due to hygienic concerns.

Who Will Take Them

Missions, homeless shelters, crisis centers and halfway houses need a lot of beds and are usually happy to take a mattress donation.

Recyclers

Donate your old mattress to a recycler, where the fiber, steel, metal and foam can be separated then used to make new mattresses.

Tips

Whether you donate to a recycler or a charity, ask if they can pick up the mattress. Most will do so for free. Also, ask for a receipt, so you can write off the donation on your taxes.

Tags: donation your, Take Them, used mattress

Make Twin Beds Look Like A Sofa

A backboard can help your twin bed look and function like a sofa.

A twin bed can be made to look and function like a sofa during the day. While the standard length of a three-seat sofa is 76 inches with a 30-inch-deep seat cushion, twin beds have the same approximate length at 75 inches, but have 9 more inches of depth. You can make your bed the right depth for sitting comfort and have it look and function like a sofa with a few simple steps. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Remove footboards, headboards and risers. If your bed is on risers, it will be too high and will not look like a sofa.

2. Push the bed against the wall lengthwise. Locating the bed against the wall lengthwise creates a back support and will be the foundation for a backboard, bolsters and cushions, to create the correct sitting depth.

3. Create and mount a backboard. A backboard attached to the wall will provide cushioning for back support and help make the bed look more like a sofa. Cut a 72-inch, or 6-foot, length of plywood to the width of approximately 30 or 36 inches. Cover the backboard with batting and fabric that matches your daybed cover, using a staple gun on the reverse side to attach it. Attach the backboard to the wall with screws.

4. Purchase a pair of foam bolster wedges. The foam bolsters are long, triangular-shaped pieces of foam. They are frequently used on daybeds as back support. Two foam bolsters will rest against the backboard and provide more back support, as well as bring the sitting area forward, making sitting more comfortable.

5. Put on a daybed or Hollywood bed cover set that includes matching bolster covers. A Hollywood bed cover or daybed set is sized to fit a twin bed, at 39 by 75 inches. The set will include a fabric cover that fits snugly over a twin mattress and foundation with the sheets and a blanket underneath. The fabric cover extends all the way to the floor. It has piping on its edges like a bedspread, which helps align it at the edge of the mattress, keeping the cover neatly secured. The cover can be used during the day, then easily removed for sleeping. Put on the covers for the foam bolsters.

6. Add sofa pillows. Sofa pillows are usually square and come in a variety of designs and colors. They will make your twin bed even more comfortable while giving it the distinctive look of a sofa.

Tags: like sofa, back support, foam bolsters, function like, function like sofa, look function

Solder Metal On Glasses

Glasses repair is a useful skill.

Soldering metal onto your glasses can be an inexpensive fix for broken frames or detached or broken hinges. It also requires enough materials that it may be cheaper to take it to your glasses distributor for repair if it's a one-time fix. But if you tend to break your glasses often, learning to do the repairs yourself may well be worth the time and effort.

Instructions

1. Remove the lenses from the glasses if possible to avoid damaging them and then wipe the frames clean with a damp cloth. Clean as thoroughly as possible, as dirt or oil from your fingers can keep the solder from setting effectively.

2. Squeeze a small amount of soldering flux to the area you want to solder to prepare the metal, as well to the piece of solder.

3. Clamp the broken portion of the glasses together firmly with small, preferably rubber-tipped clamps. The area must remain completely still while you solder it to maintain a clean and less breakable line.

4. Turn on the small butane torch on low and heat the broken area. After applying heat for several seconds, press the end of the solder onto the area. It should melt immediately and fill the broken area. If it doesn't, apply more heat with the torch. Allow the solder to cool completely, which will take 10 to 60 minutes, depending on the amount of solder used.

5. Use the metal file to gently file the soldered area completely smooth if necessary. Unclamp the glasses and test the area's strength before putting the lenses back.

Tags: your glasses, broken area

Replace Speakers In A Car Door

Car door speakers are either factory-installed or aftermarket additions. You sometimes need to replace one of these, and it's a repair the do-it-yourself handyperson should be able to perform in a short period of time with a minimum of tools.

Instructions

1. Determine if the speaker is original equipment or an aftermarket installation. Generally, aftermarket speakers will be held in the door by a speaker grille that protrudes from the door, and may have screws visible.

2. Remove any screws on the perimeter of the speaker grille. If there are no visible screws, but the grille protrudes from the door panel, gently pull on the edge of the grille to remove it. Don't force it if it does not remove without pulling the door panel with it. Skip to Step 4 if the grille cannot be removed.

3. Remove the screws you exposed by removing the grille (if that was possible), and remove the speaker from the door.

4. Remove the window crank handle from the door. This will be held in place by either a screw in the center of the handle or a lock ring on the back of the handle where it enters the door.

5. Remove the door handle. This will be held on either by a center screw, a screw in the bezel, a lock ring on the back of the handle, or a lock tab on the bezel.

6. Remove any screws holding the armrest to the door.

7. Check around the perimeter of the door panel and remove any screws. Carefully check in the pile of the carpeted section if your door panel has one.

8. Try lifting up on the door panel to see if it slides off. Some panels use retainers that can be removed in this manner. If no movement is noted, gently pry the door panel away from the door. Use a flat tool, such as a very stiff putty knife, for this, inserting it every few inches around the door.

9. Remove the screws that were hidden behind the door panel and remove the speaker.

10. Install a new speaker.

11. Reinstall the door panel. Be sure to first line up any retainers with their hole, then push them in one at a time until all have been inserted in the door.

12. Reinstall the door handle, armrest and window handle.

Tags: door panel, from door, Remove screws, door Remove, will held, back handle

The Average Dimensions Of A Living Room

Living rooms in the United States average 16-by-16 feet.

Next to the kitchen, the living room may be the room in your home where you spend the most quality time with your family. Whether you're building a new home or remodeling an old one, ensure that your living room is large enough to comfortably accommodate everyone in your household. Does this Spark an idea?

National Average

As of 2011, Dimensions Guide estimates that the average living room is a 16-by-16-foot square. Depending on the size of your home --- including the number of people in your household --- it may make sense for your living room to be a different size or shape.

Small Homes

Dimensions Guide states that living rooms in small homes are also square and are 12-by-12 feet. You may find it practical to keep your living room to this size if there are only two people in your household, or if you live alone.

Large Homes

Large homes, on average, have large, rectangular living rooms, 18 feet long and 13 feet wide. Though this would seem to be barely larger than the living room in a small home, consider that 6 feet is enough room to fit an extra couch; such a room could hold two more couches than a 12-by-12-foot living room.

Considerations

If you don't entertain many guests, or if your family and guests socialize mainly in another room --- such as the kitchen --- you may not need a large living room. For instance, you could build the living room in your small home to be 10-by-11 feet and build a large kitchen.

Tags: living room, your household, your living, your living room, Dimensions Guide, living rooms

Make A Bedroom Look French

French decor often uses wrought iron and soft colors.

French bedrooms have a soft, natural feel that incorporates many Old World decor elements. Natural materials like wood, cotton and iron are used to create this look. Soft lighting and a simple room complete it. Use elements from French design to create a room that is both modern and classic. French rooms have a soft romantic appeal, which is perfect for bedrooms. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Paint the walls a soft, muted color, such as off-white, pale pink or blue. Use a whitewashed painting technique to give the room a French country appearance.

2. Install flooring that looks like traditional hardwood or terracotta. Use laminate flooring if hardwood is too expensive. Add throw rugs made from natural fibers, if desired.

3. Select furniture made of natural material like iron or wood. Paint wood so it appears whitewashed or limewashed. As with the walls, use soft colors like off-white and blue. Do not overclutter the room. Add a bed, armoire and chair.

4. Dress the windows in soft sheers that reach the floor and even pool on the floor. Use wrought iron window hardware.

5. Install a chandelier and wall sconces for lighting. Choose Old World-style lighting such as those made from wrought iron. Lighting that mimics candles is ideal.

6. Make the bed up with high-quality linens with lace accents. Stay with the theme of soft, muted colors. Blankets and quilts are more traditional that modern duvets.

Tags: wrought iron, have soft, made from, soft colors, soft muted

Instructions For Chinese Flying Lanterns

Chinese Sky Lanterns fly with the aid of heated air, much like a hot air balloon.

Known as Khoom Fay or Khom Loy, Chinese sky lanterns use hot air to rise into the night sky, much like hot air balloons. They are made from rice paper or mulberry paper, glued over a bamboo frame, with an x-shaped wire structure at the bottom to hold the fuel cell. This project's fuel cell will be made from a bamboo strip encased in ethanol-soaked cotton. As the fuel cell burns, it heats the air inside the lantern, causing it to rise. Once the fuel cell is spent, the air inside cools, and the lantern descends.

Instructions

Lantern Construction

1. Use the knife to cut six bamboo strips, 1/3- to 1/2-inch wide, making sure they are very thin so they bend easily. Be aware that the strips must be all the same length (approximately 24 to 36 inches). Bend each strip to form a circle and glue the ends together. Cut a 4-inch piece of bamboo, and set it aside to be used later with the fuel cell.

2. Tie two pieces of copper wire to one of the bamboo rings, to create an "x" or cross. This ring will be the bottom-most ring of the lantern.

3. Cut the paper to create a cylindrical shape that will cover the bamboo rings. Glue the paper pieces to the rings, with edges overlapping. Make sure to place the wired ring at the bottom and a second ring at the top, and then evenly space the other rings in between. Cut a round piece of paper for the top, making it large enough to overlap the edges onto the lantern sides. Glue the circle to the top of the lantern.

Flying the Sky Lantern

4. Select a location that is free of trees, telephone poles and overhead wires. Make sure there are no laws against fireworks in this area, as sky lanterns may be considered fireworks. Travel to the location at night with at least one other person.

5. Create the fuel cell by first bending the 4-inch strip of bamboo into a U-shape. Immerse the cotton in ethanol and use it to envelop the bamboo strip. Hang the bent part of the fuel cell over in the center of the crossed copper wires so the ends are hanging down.

6. Have one person lightly hold the lantern, fuel cell in the down position. The other person will use the matches or lighter to light the fuel cell.

7. Release the lantern when a lifting force is felt. Watch the lantern as it gently ascends into the night sky. Watch for the fuel cell to burn out, and track the lantern's descent to the ground so it may be retrieved.

Tags: fuel cell, bamboo rings, bamboo strip, into night, made from, Make sure

Protect A Ficus Tree From A Freeze

Protect a Ficus Tree From a Freeze

There are several ways to cover your ficus plant to keep it from being harmed during the freezing winter months, depending on how big your ficus tree is. Most people living in the northern United States grow ficus trees in a pot, which can be moved into the house during the winter months. Others in a temperate climate grow ficus trees outdoor all year. When temperatures threaten to dip below 32 degrees, it's time to go out and protect your ficus tree from frost. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Find an old blanket. Wrap this around your ficus tree after the leaves have dropped and the weather turns cold. It should extend from the ground and over the top of your ficus. Alternatives to blankets are carpeting, foam that goes under carpeting, pink fiberglass, and layers of canvas or burlap.

2. Secure the blanket or insulating cover with twine. You can place heavy rocks or bricks on the bottom of the blanket. This will keep the wind from blowing it off.

3. Top with a large plastic sheet to keep the insulation dry.

4. Secure with twine or heavy rocks to keep the plastic in place. Make sure that the plastic does not touch the tree.

5. Place a potted ficus tree in a cold garage or basement when the tree has gone dormant, and wrap as above. Give your potted ficus one cup of water per month to keep the soil from drying out.

Tags: your ficus, ficus tree, your ficus tree, Ficus Tree, Ficus Tree From

Where To Donate A Used Tv

Be green and donate your TV.

With concern for the environment rapidly growing, many people want to take care of their electronic equipment through efficient, green actions. Donating your used TV is one of the best ways to reuse a large electronic product. Environmentalists advocate reuse first even before recycling because it extends the life of valuable equipment and keeps them from entering the waste stream. With a little research, you can easily find a worthy organization to which you can donate your used TV.

Instructions

1. Donate a used TV through FreeCycle. An Internet non-profit organization, FreeCycle is a network of millions of members all over the world who participate by donating and receiving items for free. Through a simple online posting to your local FreeCycle group, you can find like-minded individuals who can pick-up your TV for free (see Resources below).

2. Donate a used TV through Earth911. One of the largest online resources for information on reuse and recycling, Earth911 can provide you with a list of local organizations that accept donations of used TVs. With a simple and easy-to-navigate interface, Earth911 clearly provides links, contact and location information, as well as convenient maps (see Resources below).

3. Donate a used TV to your local church. If you belong to a church, your used TV can be used for Sunday School education, community outreach programs, or management needs within the church administration.

4. Donate a used TV to the Salvation Army or Goodwill thrift stores. Both charities will sell your TV in their stores and use the money to fund their various community programs. The Salvation Army and Goodwill can also come directly to your house to pick up the TV (see Resources below).

5. Donate a used TV to an abuse or homeless shelter. These organizations provide a safe haven for battered people who seek protection and for those without a home. A donated TV can help to entertain them and keep their spirits up while they are living at the shelter.

Tags: Donate used, below Donate, below Donate used, Resources below, Resources below Donate, your used, Army Goodwill

Wii System Requirements For "Harry Potter"

The Wii, released by Nintendo in 2006, has always held the image of being a family-friendly system. To this end, it has seen its share of movie tie-ins and games that the family can play together. At the time of publication, there have been six "Harry Potter" games released for the Wii: four based on the last four movies and two based on the series as a whole. Each game requires specific controllers to be able to play.

"Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1"

Released in 2010, "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1" follows the events of the movie with the same name. A single-player game only, players control Harry Potter as he seeks to vanquish Lord Voldemort once and for all. To play this game, you need a Wii Remote and a Nunchuk; no other controller options are supported.

"Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2"

Released in 2011, "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2" is a continuation of the events from the first game, being based on the movie of the same name as well. Gameplay is extremely similar to the previous game; both a Wii Remote and a Nunchuk are required for play with no other controller options being supported. Unlike most "Harry Potter" games for Wii, both "Deathly Hallows" games are rated "T" for "Teen" by the Entertainment Software Rating Board, rather than the usual "E" for "Everyone."

"Lego Harry Potter: Years 1-4"

"Lego Harry Potters: Years 1-4" retells the first four years of Harry Potter's experience in Hogwarts using Lego blocks and figures. These games are based largely on the movies rather than the books. Unlike the other "Harry Potter" games, "Lego Harry Potter: Years 1-4" supports two players. For one player, you need a Wii Remote and a Nunchuk; for two players, you must have a second Wii Remote and Nunchuk.

"Lego Harry Potter: Years 5-7"

"Lego Harry Potter: Years 5-7" recount Harry's last three years at Hogwarts, and are very similar in nature to the previous game. Characters and locations are still assembled out of Legos, and the game presents the world of "Harry Potter" is a lighthearted affair. Like "Lego Harry Potter: Years 1-4," "Years 5-7" support two player simultaneous play. For single player, you need a single Wii Remote and Nunchuk, while two Wii Remotes and Nunchuks are required to access the two player mode.

"Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix"

Based on the fifth movie of the same name, "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix" for the Nintendo Wii is very similar to previous games in terms of system requirements. A Wii Remote and Nunchuk are the only supported controller choices to play the game. Unlike "Deathly Hallows," which is mostly action-based, "Order of the Phoenix" allows players to explore Hogwarts in addition to the action based scenes from the movie.

"Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince"

Released in 2009, "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" for the Nintendo Wii is based on the sixth movie. Rated "E," gameplay is very similar to "Order of the Phoenix." The system requirements to play "Half-Blood Prince" are a Wii Remote and a Nunchuk. No other controllers, such as the Classic Controller, work with this game.

Tags: Harry Potter, Remote Nunchuk, Deathly Hallows, Lego Harry, Harry Potter Years, Lego Harry Potter

Measure Drapes

Adding a window treatment like drapes or curtains can add much to a room in terms of interior design. Drapes can add color, a contrast of light and texture with different fabrics. Drapes can also help make the window a focal point in the room and draw visitors' eyes toward the area. Finding the correct measurements for curtains is the first step in adding this popular design element to any room in your home. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Measure the width of the window you are covering with drapes. For one drape per window, this will be the width of the drape. For two drapes on one window, divide the measurement in two and add 4 to 6 inches to that. These extra inches will account for the curtain rod, which usually extends 2 to 3 inches beyond the width of the window on either side. This will be your final measurement for the width of each drape.

2. Decide the height of the drapes by first figuring out the look you'd like for your window treatment. Decide whether you'd like the drapes to flow from the top of the window to the window sill or if you'd like them draping down to the floor, hanging from floor to ceiling or from floor to about a foot above the window.

3. Measure the length of the window or the length of the span of wall you decided in the previous step for the entire height of the drapes. Add 4 inches to the height to allow for a curtain rod fold at the top of the drapes.

4. Cut your drapes using the width and height measurements you gathered in the previous steps. If you are using fabric that you'll need to hem, remember to leave an inch or two of additional width and length of fabric on each side of the drape for hemming purposes. The extra inch or two at the top is in addition to the added three inches for the curtain rod fold.

5. When using store bought drapes, either purchase in a length and width appropriate to your window or customize store-bought drapes by hemming or adding additional fabric to them to allow them to perfectly fit. Measure curtains that are too short and compare that measurement to the measurement needed in height. Add additional fabric to the bottom of the drapes only, so as to not mess with the preformed curtain rod fold.

Tags: curtain fold, additional fabric, from floor, height drapes, like drapes, width window, window treatment

Set Goals For A Sales Business Plan

A crucial component to the success of any business is the ability to expand its customer base to ensure its share of the marketplace is maintained. Your business can achieve this success through the formation and successful implementation of a well-developed sales planning document. The sales plan will provide a 12-month road map that lays out sales goals such as how a salesperson plans to generate leads, contact customers, follow up with those customers, and produce sales.

Instructions

1. Research and generate historical data to have a foundation to base your future expectations. Ensure data are collected throughout the year. It will be difficult to develop realistic goals for the future without having a set of data to analyze.

2. Formulate and put in place a set of realistic goals. One of the big mistakes business owners make is setting unrealistic growth rates. Determine if the market share is available to support the type of growth that you would like to see. If you find it is difficult to set realistic goals for growth, perhaps this is an important indicator that it is time to diversify your product or service offerings.

3. Tie each goal to a clear benchmark. By linking a goal to a definite point in time, the salesperson will have a metrics by which she can judge her progress on any given day. This prevents the sales professional from needing to wait until the end of the sales planning period to ascertain progress or lack thereof. Ensure these metrics take into account seasonal activity so as to provide a valid and credible benchmark.

4. Develop a segment of the plan for each sales position in your business. Each segment of your targeted sales demographic could be different based on factors such as regional variations or available market share. It is important for your sales planning document to reflect these changing realities and for strategies to be based upon the feasibility of achieving goals in each demographic. The implementation of this policy will also help address concerns of inequity-of-expectation among your sales staff.

Tags: realistic goals, sales planning, market share, planning document, sales planning document, your sales

Wood Headboards Assembly Instructions

A large wooden headboard mounts to the bed frame for stability.

A wooden headboard is a heavy, solid object that, if not assembled properly, can pose an injury hazard every time you use the bed. Fortunately, most wood headboards require only secure mounting to your bed frame for assembly. Insert a few sturdy screws to connect the base of the headboard to the end of your bed frame, and the headboard no longer poses a danger. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Follow the frame manufacturer's instructions to set up both the frame and the frame's support elements, but don't place the mattress and bedspring onto the frame yet. Position the frame so you can access the area where the headboard connects.

2. Hold the headboard against the frame with any predrilled mounting holes through the base of the headboard aligned against the mounting holes in the bedframe. Ensure that the mounting holes match. If they don't, you'll have to drill your own holes to mount the wooden headboard.

3. Use the grease pencil to mark the bed frame's mounting hole positions onto the headboard base, filling in the marks through the holes in the bed frame.

4. Clamp the headboard onto a flat work surface with the base of the headboard overhanging the edge where the marked bed frame holes are located.

5. Drill holes with the ¼-inch bit through the headboard where you've marked each mounting hole. Unclamp the headboard, then reposition it against the bed frame with the mounting holes aligned.

6. Use ¼-inch hex socket screws that are 23/4 inches long to mount the headboard to the bed frame. Place a washer onto each screw, then thread the screw through the holes in the headboard and bed frame. Secure the screws in place with matching nuts, using your hand to tighten each nut until all of the holes are filled.

7. Secure the screws further by placing an Allen wrench into the socket of the screw heads, then using a wrench to tighten the nuts until the headboard is held firmly and safely into place.

Tags: mounting holes, base headboard, wooden headboard, against frame, against frame with

Styles Of Furniture

American furniture styles evolved from Jacobean to modern and contemporary designs.

The earliest examples of furniture used in America were imported from Europe and were made in the English and Dutch Colonial styles. Much of the furniture made by the earliest American shops was highly derivative of previous Old World styles. After the American Revolution, primitive styles were developed along with traditional established European approaches to furniture making. Does this Spark an idea?

Earliest Styles

Much of the first American furniture was modeled after the ornately carved English Jacobean (1600 to 1690) style. The rigidly designed and sturdily constructed furniture featured a dark finish. Early American (1640 to 1700) furniture was crafted from local woods and patterned after European designs. The William and Mary (1690 to 1725) and Queen Anne (1700 to 1755) styles featured refined elegant designs of moderate proportions and graceful appearance.

Colonial Period

Furniture of the Colonial Period (1700 to 1780) blended and simplified characteristics of earlier English derived styles. The Georgian style (1714 to 1760) used heavy proportions and featured ball-and-claw feet. The simple, utilitarian Pennsylvania Dutch style (1720 to 1830) personified American country furniture aesthetics. The Chippendale style (1750 to 1790) was developed from the Queen Anne style and utilized cabriole legs with ball-and-claw feet. The furniture was distinguished by its hallmark broken pediment scroll atop tall pieces.

Federal Period

Federal style (1780 to 1800) furniture synthesized various neo-classic tendencies in furniture making. The style employed graceful lines, tapered legs and the use of veneers and inlays. Robert Adam (1765 to 1800) furniture was fashioned after classical Italian designs. The neo-classic Hepplewhite (1765 to 1800) designs displayed delicate patterns with tapered legs and contrasting inlays. Hepplewhite furniture was produced in New England and the Carolinas.

Victorian Period

Victorian furniture (1840 to 1910) was the first to be mass produced in the United States. The heavy Gothic forms were elaborately carved and ornamented. The influential Shaker style (1829 to 1869) furniture was popular for its utilitarian simplicity and clean lines. The Arts and Crafts or Mission style of 1880 to 1910 produced furniture composed of mostly straight lines influenced by the furnishings of old Spanish Missions in California. The curved lines and intricate patterns of Art Noveau (1890 to 1910) furniture often incorporated stylized plant forms.

Tags: 1765 1800, 1800 furniture, American furniture, ball-and-claw feet, Colonial Period, furniture making, Queen Anne

Traditional Home Office Design Ideas

Many people choose to have a home office.

Some people may run a business from home or telecommute for work and need a good home office. A traditional home office design provides adequate working space, ample storage and simple design elements. Proper furniture, organization, good lighting and personal touches makes a traditional office both functional and enjoyable. Does this Spark an idea?

Furniture

A home office needs the right furniture. For a more traditional design, choose a solid wood desk with a large work area. The work area should have enough room for the computer or laptop and other office hardware such as a printer and scanner. A matching bookcase provides a place to store important files or reference materials. Choose a comfortable desk chair with proper back support.

Desk Organization

Office supply stores carry many useful items to keep desktop clutter at bay. A drawer organizer keeps pens, pencils, scissors, paper clips, rubber bands and other random office supplies in their place. A stack-able paper tray organizes files, paper and mail and prevents important papers from getting lost.

Good Lighting

A traditional at-home office needs proper lighting. Windows let in natural sunlight, but some may offer a distracting view of children playing outside or busy street traffic. Overhead lighting is good but may not offer enough task lighting at the workspace. Opt for a simple desk lamp to illuminate the task area of the desk while you work.

Personal Touches

Adding personal pictures of friends and family makes your home office feel warm and inviting. Place a small frame or two on the desk. Anything too big will add chaos and clutter to your traditional home office. Pictures on the wall work well, too. Hang personal photographs or your favorite piece of art. Personalize the home office even more by painting the walls a calm, relaxing color and adding a couple of house plants.

Tags: home office, office needs, traditional home, traditional home office, work area

Support Groups For Parents With Troubled Teens

Parents with troubled teens need support groups to keep them motivated.

When parents in similar situations meet, it can provide mutually needed emotional support. In a support group, parents with troubled teens can talk about their problems, laugh about the same things, help each other and find understanding. Support groups provide an educational and therapeutic focus on dealing with troubled teens. A support group is there to help in times of crisis, provide training for parents who need to improve their skills and to reinforce positive coping behavior. Several websites serve as platforms for parent support groups in the United States.

Parenting Teens

Parenting Teens is a website that was created by a few parents in the La Verkin, Utah community. This group tried to help local parents with teen issues that they thought needed to be addressed in their community. In the meantime, the website has grown to give support to parents worldwide who have similar problems with their teenagers. The site covers topics such as alcohol abuse and drug abuse among teenagers, education, behavioral issues and gives parenting tips. The site also lists all the local support groups for parents with troubled teens across the United States and Canada. You can find the contact details for a local support group on the site by simply clicking on the state. Parenting Teens also links to other resources, such as brat camps for trouble teens, wilderness camps and residential treatment centers for troubled teens.

By Parents For Parents

By Parents for Parents is a website that aims to provide information on parenting teens. Parents of teens (or former teens) provide articles about their struggle and tips on get through it. The site also features self-tests, through which parents can measure objectively how effective their parenting techniques are. In the discussion forum, parents can share their experiences with troubled teens with one another. The site also provides information on programs for troubled teens.

Because I Love You

Because I Love You (BILY) is the website of a nonprofit organization that supports parents with troubled children. The organization promotes structure and consistency in parenting and helps parents deal with teen issues such as drugs, truancy, runaways, dress codes, problem friends and verbal and physical abuse. The website features community forums on which parents from specific areas can voice their concerns and get advice. BILY support groups hold meetings for parents on a regular basis. The website provides a list of contact details for support groups across the United States.

Conduct Disorders

A couple of parents who are raising challenging children started the Conduct Disorders website, where the focus is on children with disorders. The site has a news section that publishes the latest research on conduct disorders in teens. The forum serves as a support group where parents in similar situations can exchange advice. The forum started in the '90s when a parent in desperation reached out to other parents of troubled children through a message board called "A Place for Us." The Conduct Disorders website was created by Deborah McHugh, a dropout prevention teacher who had to deal with difficult teens in her daily life. On the site's video section, experts give parenting tips and supply information about several conduct disorders.

Tags: with troubled, with troubled teens, parents with, support group, troubled teens, Parents Parents, site also

Metal Gear Solid Glitches Saves & Cheats

"Metal Gear Solid," released by Konami on October 21, 1998, has become a massively popular video game, bringing the idea of "sneaking" in games to the mainstream. The game focuses on the spy Solid Snake and his attempts to stop a well-trained group of terrorists. There are several moments in the game in which the player give himself an edge by cheating or taking advantage of in-game glitches.

Wolf-proof Cardboard Box

When you are in the cave with Meryl, hit her and then quickly equip and get inside your cardboard box. Meryl will send a wolf to attack you, but instead of attacking you, the wolf will urinate on the box. From that point on, no wolves will attack you if you are using the box.

Defeat Psycho Mantis

When the battle with Psycho Mantis begins, unplug your controller from the Playstation's first controller port and connect it to the second controller port. This will prevent Psycho Mantis from predicting your attacks.

Easily Cross Minefields

If you wish to cross a minefield without getting hurt, hold the 'x' button until Snake is lying on the ground, then crawl across the minefield. In addition to not setting off mines, you will collect any mines that you crawl over.

Making the Ninja Free You From Captivity

After you are captured and tortured, you will be in a prison cell. After the guard goes to the bathroom three times, the ninja will come and free you.

Angry Mei Ling Glitch

If you talk to Mei Ling 5-8 times and do not save your game, Mei Ling will become angry and refuse to talk to you.

Ghost Picture of Hideo Kojima

If you use your camera to take a picture of one of the orange robots in Otacon's office, load the picture and look at it again to see a ghostly image of the game's director, Hideo Kojima.

Game Save Locations

Several game save locations for "Metal Gear Solid" can be found in the References section.

Tags: Gear Solid, Metal Gear, Metal Gear Solid, Psycho Mantis, controller port, Hideo Kojima

Sunroom Interior Design Ideas

This sunroom has an intimate boudoir feeling.

Sunrooms offer you a soothing chance to enjoy a little bit of nature in the comfort of your home. Most sunrooms have walls of glass or windows that let the outside in and help you connect with the outdoors. Decorating ideas for a sunroom are only limited by your imagination and your personal taste. The only design standard is that it be comfortable and enjoyable for you and your friends or family. Does this Spark an idea?

Spanish

When creating a design plan for your sunroom, consider the design of the rest of your home. If you want a soothing refuge, you may wish to decorate the sunroom in a similar style. However, if you are looking for an interesting retreat, you may wish to decorate using a different and unexpected décor.

If you prefer a traditional decorating scheme, think about using a Spanish style with tile floors and terra cotta accents. Use rough hewn furniture pieces that give a casual, informal look and feel. Using handmade art adds to the rugged atmosphere. Sun-drenched accent colors or a contrastingly painted wall completes this natural look. Throw a few bright rugs on the floor and it's done.

Wicker

The wicker and plants approach also works well in a sunroom. While this is a time-honored decorating approach, it succeeds because it appeals to many with its comfortable décor. Chose a wicker furniture group that includes chairs, end tables and a couch or loveseat to allow for flexibility. Deep cushions make relaxing in the sunroom very appealing. If your taste runs to the playful, consider creating a jungle theme by adding tropical plants and using bold patterns in your accent pieces. For example, a faux zebra rug on the floor would add to the wild ambience.

A more traditional wicker look can be achieved by using fabrics like chintz fabric in floral patterns to evoke an English garden look and feel. Because changing the accent pieces and fabrics is relatively inexpensive, you may wish to consider a new theme for every season while keeping the wicker furniture in place. Flowering plants like violets and trailing ivy vines would complete this look.

Arabian Nights

Perhaps you are looking for something unusual. If so, then decorate your sunroom in an Arabian Nights theme. By using sheer curtains that drape from the ceiling, you can create an intimate boudoir effect. Arrange some large throw pillows on the floor and keep the furniture sparse. Add some Turkish brass or copper accents like a coffee urn or vase. Consider using Ottoman mosaic tiles as art on the walls for an added touch of atmosphere.

Tags: accent pieces, Arabian Nights, intimate boudoir, look feel, wicker furniture, wish decorate

Rv Campgrounds In Yuma Arizona

RV Campgrounds in Yuma, Arizona

Yuma has become famous to a new generation of tourists thanks to the remake of the film "3:10 to Yuma." This Arizona has long been famous to RV travelers because it is home to tourist attractions like the Yuma Territorial Prison and because it has the top spot in the Guinness Book of World Records for most sunny days per year. The RV parks, campgrounds and resorts offer recreational activities that take advantage of those warm Arizona days.

Hidden Shores RV Park

Hidden Shores RV Park places you near the Imperial Dam. This Yuma RV park hosts 575 sites with full hookup. Golfers can enjoy the on-site 9-hole course that is reserved exclusively for guests of the park. Bring your boat if you've got one because there is a boat launch ramp into the Colorado River. This RV park also has its own eatery. The Cove Restaurant serves a complete menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Other attractions on the property include a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, ballroom and fitness center.

Hidden Shores RV Park

10300 Imperial Dam Road

Yuma, AZ 85365

(928) 539-6700

hiddenshores.com

Cocopah Bend RV and Golf Resort

Cocopah Bend RV Resort is an excellent choice for those who love to spend time swinging the golf club. This Yuma RV resort has its own 18-hole course right on the property. There are 800 sites here and 499 of them offer full hookup including 30- and 50-amp electric. You will also find room for slideouts and big rigs. The Wild River center at Cocopah provides recreation in the form of a bowling alley, laser tag and video arcade, or you can relax in the lounge or Jacuzzi or get some exercise by swimming in the pool or playing tennis.

Cocopah Bend RV and Golf Resort

6800 S. Strand Ave.

Yuma, AZ 85364

(928) 343-1663

cocopahrv.com

Las Quintas Oasis RV Park

Seniors looking for a Yuma resort reserved for those aged 55 and up might want to consider Las Quintas Oasis RV Park. This Yuma RV park provides 36 full hookup sites with pull through capacity and 30- and 50-amp electric connections. The pool is heated and there is also a spa. Other outdoor activities include horseshoes and shuffleboard. You can get an indoor workout inside the fitness center. At night you might want to head into town to check out what's going on at the Historic Yuma Theatre.

Las Quintas Oasis RV Park

10442 N. Frontage Road

Yuma, AZ 85365

(928) 305-9005

lasquintasrvresort.com

Araby Acres RV Resort

Araby Acres RV Resort has 330 full-hookup sites that average 1,750-square-feet and provide 30- and 50-amp electricity. The interior roads are paved and in good condition and the streets are lined with trees. You'll find a library, lounge, fitness center and clubhouse at this RV park. You can swim in the heated pool or relax in the adjacent spa. Many activities are constantly going on at Araby Acres including Red Hat Society, church meetings and exercise classes.

Araby Acres RV Resort

E. 32nd St.

Yuma, AZ 85365

(928) 344-8666

rvonthego.com/araby-acres.html

Tags: Araby Acres, Acres Resort, Araby Acres Resort, Cocopah Bend, fitness center, full hookup

Wedding Ceremony Locations In Central Alabama

Central Alabama, in the foothills of the Appalachians, is a beautiful region that boasts remarkable landscapes. Mountain views create breathtaking photographs, making the region a popular wedding locale.

Mountain View Gardens

The Mountain View Gardens provides everything a couple needs for the perfect wedding: beautiful venues with large dance floors, majestic views, wedding directors, caterers, florists and a sound crew. Ample seating is provided.

Matthews Manor

Matthews Manor consists of a grand hall and splendid gardens. A full range of services is provided, including catering, cake creations and floral design. Matthews also possesses equipment for slideshow presentations.

Rucker Place

Rucker Place in Southside Birmingham is a home built in 1900 that was renovated for weddings and other events. This venue has professionals that provide flowers, seating and tables, dinner and alcohol. The on-site, experienced wedding director will direct the ceremony to ensure it is perfect.

The Wynfrey Hotel

Alabama's only five-star hotel that boasts Italian marble floors and hand-painted murals houses 30,000 square ft. of event space. It can accommodate up to 1,200 guests and offers catering, florists, and wedding directors.

The Sonnet House

This beautiful home was built in 1924 on 18 acres and possesses wraparound porches and old-world charm. The Sonnet House includes ample folding chairs and tables for the entire party, and fully-furnished bridge and groom rooms. This venue allows all vendors for your big day.

Tags: Central Alabama, home built, Matthews Manor, Mountain View, Mountain View Gardens, Rucker Place, Sonnet House

Sunrooms Made Easy

Sunrooms address several different needs for a house. They can act as conservatories, solariums and patio rooms, among other uses. They are also relatively inexpensive to build and can significantly add to the value and appearance of a house. Start by deciding on the type and quality of sunroom you want. Does this Spark an idea?

Choosing a Sunroom

First, determine what kind of sunroom you want; a greenhouse or solarium usually doesn't require as much detailed construction as a patio room or lounge area, but it is much more difficult to entertain guests in a greenhouse. A patio room needs more elaborate connections to the heat, electricity, and piping of the house. Decide exactly where you want to build. The sunroom should always be on the side of the house that receives the most sunlight depending on where you live. If you want the sunroom to be more in the solarium style, separate from the house, position it correctly, with the windows still facing the direction that receives the most sunlight. Many sunrooms originally started out as decks or real patios, so you may want to investigate remodelling a nearby patio as a sunroom first.

When it comes to energy savings, a give-and-take principle applies to sunrooms. When the sun is shining, it can supply a lot of heat to the house through the sunroom, lowering the need for forced-air heating. However, the large number of windows in the sunroom can also cause the house to lose a lot of heat, especially when the sun isn't shining. For this reason, be aware of what windows you choose to use. Try to find those that are well-insulated or that have particular features like UV-blocking films.

Styles and Methods for Building

You can design the sunroom yourself, making the building plans, buying the supplies, laying the foundation and raising the walls yourself (this requires significant construction experience). You can also buy a sunroom kit from a company that supplies do-it-yourself kits that contain nearly everything you need to build a simple sunroom. For the more complicated sunrooms that are meant to function as an integral part of the house itself, it is probably best to hire a professional contractor to build at least the primary structure for you.

Sunrooms tend to experience drastic changes in temperature during the year, so it is usually best to choose wood that is pressure-treated for the best durability. Less expensive sunrooms are made with aluminum framing, which is easier to construct and resists rust, which means easier maintenance. However, the aluminum can develop white deposits over time (its version of rust), so you will still need to keep it clean.

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Kill Black Ants In The Yard

Pesty black ants always return to their food source.

There are two types of black ants: little black ants, which is the name they're really called, and carpenter ants. Black ants in your yard are annoying and can eventually lead to black ants in your home. Get rid of black ants in your yard by following a few simple procedures. Once you've rid your yard of black ants, you'll be free to enjoy the outdoors without these pests. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. A wheelbarrow helps move heavy items.

Remove old wood piles from your yard or piles of anything else that may provide a home to black ants. Place heavy items in a wheelbarrow for easier removal. Dispose of items no longer needed or store them in your garage, basement or an airtight container.

2. Use caulk to fill in crevices.

Check around the foundation of your home and garage for any cracks or crevices that might provide an entry way for black ants. Fill the cracks and crevices with caulk, following the directions on the caulk applicator.

3. Sprinkle cornmeal liberally around all anthills or any other locations where you've seen black ants congregating. They will eat the cornmeal, which swells up inside them and kills them.

4. Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar.

5. A spray bottle makes for easy application of vinegar spray.

Use your vinegar spray on areas where you've seen ants traveling or carrying food. Black ants leave a scent trail, which they will repeatedly follow back to their food source. The smell of vinegar will deter them from following their trail

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Styles & Types Of Furniture

As long as furniture has been created, furniture styles have evolved to mirror the tastes of society at the time. Furniture types and styles vary depending upon their country of origin and the era in which the furniture was created. When picking out furniture, choosing a style that matches your personality matters more than going along with the current trends. Many people opt to mix and match furniture styles to create spaces unique to them. Does this Spark an idea?

Tudor

King Henry VIII's Tudor dynasty in England spawned the Tudor furniture style. Tudor furniture was created from 1457 during Henry's reign through Queen Elizabeth's reign to 1603. Tudor furniture tended to be very heavy and ornately carved. Materials for Tudor furniture included oak and other heavy woods from local sources. Four-poster beds became commonplace during this period, in addition to heavy chests with intricate carvings. Chairs featured square backs for the most part and were also ornately carved.

Queen Anne

Queen Anne bench

Also known as late Baroque and early Georgian, Queen Anne furniture was created in the 1720s and extending into the 1760s. It closely modeled the previous Baroque furniture style. A key difference, however, was the inclusion of Asian-style lacquer work into the furniture in a technique known as japanning. Aside from japanning, Queen Anne furniture remained rather simple. Chairs in Queen Anne style developed a new backing known as crooked, or S-curved, backing to make chairs more comfortable.

Victorian

Victorian frame

During Queen Victoria's English reign, not only clothing, customs and architecture evolved, but also furniture. Victorian furniture tended to have lots of curves and showy d cor; however, this furniture, popular beginning in the 1830s, was styled more for comfort than furniture styles of previous eras. Rocking chairs became popular in Victorian homes. In addition, the Morris chair, low chairs with deep seats and a hinged back, appeared during this time period. Seating in Victorian furniture was plush, in both the seat and the back. Woods common for Victorian furniture include oak and walnut.

Colonial

Colonial furniture first appeared during the early colonization of the United States. This furniture style remained simple and incorporated lots of wood, such as pine, maple and walnut. Furniture featured ladderback chairs, butterfly tables and candle stands. This type of Colonial is known as Early American Colonial. By the 18th century, Colonial furniture made a return, leading to a time known as Colonial revival. Colonial revival incorporated secretary desks, chintzes and sconces as d cor.

Art Deco

Art deco style clock

From the 1920s to the late 1930s, art deco styles dominated American homes. The style featured bold, stylized geometric shapes with patterns such as lightning bolts and sunbursts. Avant garde looks trickled into American homes, influenced by the treasures of King Tut's tomb, Hollywood glamor and the use of newer materials for decorating, like stainless steel, glass and chrome.

Tags: Queen Anne, Tudor furniture, furniture created, furniture style, furniture styles, Victorian furniture, American homes

Materials Used In Old Rocking Chairs

Bare or with a seat cushion, there are standard materials in a rocker.

An old rocking chair is one of the most loved pieces of furniture passed from generation to generation. The memories of sleep setting in or being rocked after a bad fall are some of the first memories of childhood. But, regardless of its age, the rocking chair has changed very little. There are standard materials for the making of a sturdy rocker that lasts a few hundred years. Does this Spark an idea?

Softwood and Hardwood

There are softwoods and hardwoods. Most old rocking chairs, especially the ones still in use, are made of a hardwood such as oak. Though there are some well-made old rockers fashioned of a softer wood such as pine, most simply have a problem holding up to the stresses through which a rocking chair is put. Hence, the reason many old rocking chairs that have survived the tests of daily use for several generations are those carved of a hardwood.

Joinery and Screws

Most old rockers have a wood flange that surrounds the entire seat. This flange conceals the wood brace through which screws are passed to join the seat bottom with the legs. Look for the original screws. Many older screws will be a bit discolored, compared with a screw molded of soft metals in the last century. Screws that are original to an old rocker that has lasted several generations were made of iron or other hard metals.

Upholstery Fabric and Tacks

There are models of old rocking chairs with an attached upholstered seat. The seat exterior consists of the external upholstery fabric and tacks. This fabric tends to be a coarse weave of natural fibers. Polyester did not exist in the 1800s. The upholstery tacks on older rocking chairs will be discolored. The tacks might have a decorative head or simply a bald dome shape. Look for tacks that are set side by side in a single row on the original upholstery.

Horse Hair and Springs

The interior of the upholstered seat on an old rocker is made of springs and horse hair. The springs add bounce and, after two generations, may need to be replaced if not retied. The horse hair is coarse and brittle. It is an indispensable fingerprint of an older rocking chair.

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Styles Of Wooden Back Chairs

Styles of Wooden Back Chairs

Wooden-backed chairs come in a variety of styles. Antique chairs from different eras set the standards for style, and modern reproductions are still popular with homeowners. Most wooden-backed chairs were designed for dining room or meeting hall ensembles. The most common and sought-after styles of can be found at antique or estate sales. More simplistic and mass-produced styles can be found in modern stores, Amish furniture stores or handmade in wood shops. Does this Spark an idea?

Queen Anne

The Queen Anne style is defined by carved, scallop-shell backings and graceful, curved legs. Walnut and mahogany are the preferred woods. The backs are exquisitely carved and feature scrolling foliage or stylized acanthus leaves down an inverted, vase-shaped slat.

American Windsor

The Windsor-style chair is recognized by its bow-back styling with thin spindles and turned legs. The American Windsor is made with both high and low backs, with and without arms. Pine, maple and bamboo are the most commonly used woods.

Duncan Phyfe

Also known as Empire or Regency, the Duncan Phyfe design is an adaptation of other styles. The characteristic wooden back of this chair depicts the motif of a lyre. This 19th century style also features a squared top and a single scrolled bar across the back.

Georgian

Influenced by the three king Georges of England, Georgian-style furniture is heavy and clean. The backs of these wooden chairs are heavily detailed with saw cuts or fine carvings. The patterns are repetitive and build detail around the edges.

Victorian

Victorian chairs draw from Gothic designs. Backs are elaborately carved or have heavy ornamentation and dark finishes. This is one of the first styles of chairs to be massed produced. Usually associated with tufted backs and padded seats, many ornate wooden backs were produced with balloon back openings, spiral carvings and delicately curved center slats.

Chippendale

Chippendale is considered the royalty of antique designs. Often made of mahogany, the wooden backs have entwined ribbon back designs or strong, sweeping curves. What may look like a delicate 2-inch thick frame may have been masterfully carved from a 5-inch thick piece of wood. The Chippendale period introduced the corner chair with the signature ornate and interlaced three-ribbon back panel.

Shaker

Shaker-style chairs are also known as the ladder-back style. These chairs usually feature three vertical slats across the back or multiple vertical spindles. The backs are somewhat backward leaning for comfort with tilting feet. Designs are simple and utilitarian. and the color palette is limited to red, blue, blue-green or yellow. The Shaker rocking chair was developed for the elderly because the rocking motion was believed to be beneficial to their health. (The rockers have four slats in the back). Because the Shaker style is easy to replicate, there are many variations of it still being produced.

Mission

Also known as Arts and Craft, the Mission-style chair is recognized by sturdy construction and plain designs. Much larger than Shaker-style furniture and often made of oak, the wooden backs have wide, straight slats. Some designs have a leather panel between two slats.

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Wicker Furniture Repair Supplies

Wicker refers to furniture and other items made of flexible plant materials.

Although there is no definitive "wicker" plant, furniture and other items woven of flexible plant materials are referred to as wicker. Plants used to weave wicker items are the same as those necessary to repair them: willow shoots, rattan reeds or cattail leaves. The weaving materials are usually soaked until they become soft and pliable, then they are woven into the desired shape and allowed to dry naturally. Does this Spark an idea?

Round Reed

Available in many diameters, round reed comes coiled and ready to soak and use. Made of genuine plant materials, round reed is ordered by metric size.

Strand Cane

Flat and available in several widths, strand cane is used to weave chair seats or as a wrap for legs, arms, joints where two large diameter reeds are attached. Cut from the outside of the rattan reed, cane is thin with a rough, dull inside. The outside is hard and shiny.

Kraft Fiber Rush

Made of Kraft paper fibers, it is rolled and twisted into a round rush-like shape. Kraft fiber rush is usually used in danish-weave chairs. Do not soak it; the paper fibers will deteriorate.

Pre-Twisted Sea Grass Rush

Long, slender leaves of cattails and other swamp plants are rolled tightly along their vertical axis. The ends of the leaves are overlapped as they are rolled up, forming a continuous strand.

Tags: plant materials, flexible plant, flexible plant materials, furniture other, furniture other items

Plan A Kitchen Remodel On Paper

So you want to know plan a kitchen remodel on paper. When you know what you want, you can design a kitchen remodel on the back of a napkin, or on architectural blueprints. With a pencil, piece of paper and a ruler, you too can plan your kitchen remodel on paper. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Read a lot of home magazines. Visit Home Depot Expo center, and any other stores in your area with furniture and home needs. Visit your homes of friends. Figure out exactly what you want out of your kitchen, and keep notes as you go along.

2. Draw a few freehand sketches of your kitchen with a pencil, and try to visualize what you want things to look like and where you want them to go. Do this several times, or even dozens of times until you find an arrangement that feels right.

3. Once you've determined all of this, go out and measure everything; appliances, cabinets, sinks and so on.

4. Measure your kitchen. Establish what you have that can't be moved (bearing walls, windows, doorways).

5. Establish a scale that works for your paper; for instance, one inch equals one foot, then draw out your kitchen to scale. Using your measurements, add in your design, adjusting for any impossibilities based on sizes and dimensions.

6. Once you've established your scale drawing, go out and price everything you want. Invariably, there will be some changes based on prices. Once you've established your budget and made everything work within it, then adjust your drawing one last time based on any possible new dimensions.

7. Start to interview contractors. You will get more ideas from these folks, and, once again, adjust accordingly.

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Ideas For Painting A Dining & Living Room Combo

Your selection of paint colors say a lot about your personalty and style.

The right paint colors can change the entire feel of your living and dining room. Before selecting colors decide on your decor style. The wrong colors can offset or contrast against your decor. For instance, Southwestern decor does not match well with pastel walls and white crown molding. Yet, if your decor is French country then elegant pastel walls blend perfectly. Does this Spark an idea?

Southwestern

Green pottery goes well with Southwestern decor.

Southwestern decor includes rich bold colors from pottery, furniture or Native American art. Choose paint colors that blend well with specific decor pieces. For instance, if dark green is in your furniture or art then use this color as one of your paint choices. You can paint one solid wall dark green. Other deep colors such as rusty red or burgundy also work well depending on your decor selections. However, if you want to paint more than one wall, use lighter colors such as beige. Beige generally matches Southwest decor. You can paint all the walls beige and leave the ceiling white.

French Country

French country decor works well with a long list of colors because this style is simple and plain yet stylish. Many decor pieces such as picture frames are white or silver, and white blends well with many colors. Furniture pieces are white or painted in pastel colors. French decor is also elegant depending on the particular pieces in the room. You can dress up this look or create more of a French cottage feel. Paint the walls in your dining and living room light pastel colors such as yellow, purple or even baby blue. Choose colors based on the decor in the room. Crown molding works well with this style. Install crown molding at the top border of your living and dining and room.

Light Green Walls

Light green walls work well with several types of decor. This color is very neutral. It will complement dark burgundy or brown leather sofas. Hang pictures with dark burgundy or black frames on the walls. Paint all the walls in your living and dining room light green and leave the ceiling white. Bright green does not work well for a living and dining room so make sure you select light green or pea green.

Tags: well with, dining room, living dining, living dining room, your decor, colors such

Track A Keyword On Twitter

Twitter is a suitable tool for learning about the habits of Internet users. You can watch conversations or participate in your own on Twitter. You can watch the public timeline, trying to find people with similar interests. You can even track a keyword on Twitter to see what other people are saying about a given topic.

Instructions

1. Choose the keyword or words you want to track on Twitter. You can track as many keywords as you want, but you can only enter one of those keywords at a time.

2. Type "track WORD" where WORD is the keyword you want to track. You can type this from the Twitter web interface, your instant messaging program, your cell phone or even a third-party Twitter interface application such as Twhirl. If you want to track multiple keywords, repeat this process until you're tracking all the keywords you want.

3. Track your own updates by typing "track USERNAME" where USERNAME is your Twitter ID. You can also track other users' updates in this way.

4. Put "tracks" into the interface to get a list of all the keywords you're tracking right now.

5. Enter "untrack WORD" to stop tracking a certain keyword. You can stop tracking all keywords as well. To stop all tracking, type "untrack all."

Tags: stop tracking, keywords want, tracking keywords, Twitter interface, want track

What Degree To Cut Rockers For A Rocking Chair

The shape of the rockers is key to how a rocking chair works.

There are few experiences quite so relaxing as sitting in a rocking chair on a sunny porch. If you want a rocking chair for your home and have some basic woodworking ability, make yourself a rocker to suit your frame and personal style. Keep in mind that rocking chairs require different design considerations than regular chairs, so their construction is more appropriate for those with more advanced woodworking skills. Does this Spark an idea?

Rocker Basics

Typically, the rockers for rocking chairs are not designed based on a single angle of measurement. Rather, you must take into consideration the curve of the rockers, any difference between the front and back of the rockers, the rockers' overall length and their orientation in relationship to the chair legs. For example, you can produce a very different chair with the same rockers, depending on whether you slide the chair an inch forward or backward along the rockers.

Determining the Curves

If you are designing your own rocking chair, you can easily determine the angle of the rockers by using a string to draw an even curve along a straight piece of wood. For a fairly standard-sized rocker, cut a piece of string 42 inches in length. Have a partner hold one end of the string in place on the floor. Extend the string out straight so its other end reaches the middle of the wood you will use for the first rocker. With the first end held in place, gently pull the other end left and right against the wood to form a gentle arc. Trace this arc onto the wood with a pencil and use it as your pattern for both rockers.

Different Chairs, Different Angles

While the string technique works well for designing rocking chairs of all sizes, you may need slightly different string lengths for very large or small chairs. For a custom-made rocker, measure the leg of the person who will be using the chair. The ratio of the string length to the person's leg length should equal about 3.14, or the mathematical value of pi.

Additional Factors

If you are new to building rocking chairs, it's generally advisable to build based on a ready-made and tested chair design. If you're adapting a store-bought chair to make a rocker, opt for a chair with a fairly straight back and shorten the chair legs to accommodate the extra inches for the rockers. You can also use an existing rocker, as a model, for designing your own. If you can do so safely, clamp the legs of the chair to the rockers before attaching them and gently try out the chair.

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Invite Fiona To A Caravan In Wow

Fiona is a quest-giving character in World of Warcraft. First encountered at the edge of the Eastern Plaguelands, Fiona helps the player travel across the zone in a caravan that grants special bonuses for each new caravan member that joins. Fiona is the original member and officially joins the caravan after the player has returned her two companions, Gidwin Goldbraids and Tarenar Sunstrike.

Instructions

1. Accept the quests "Gidwin Goldbraids" from Fiona. Travel north to the cave entrance with a cluster of spider webbing outside of it. Turn in the quest to the webbed Gidwin Goldbraids.

2. Accept the quest "Just Encased" and collect vials of Crypt Bile from the spiders in the tunnel. Turn in the quest, then accept "Greasing the Wheel." Travel south along the river, collecting 10 Banshee's Bells from the flowers along the shore.

3. Turn in the quest to Fiona at her caravan, then accept "Tarenar Sunstrike" and travel south to Death's Step. Turn in the quest to Tarenar, then accept "What I Do Best" and kill 5 Death's Step Miscreations.

4. Turn in the quest to Tarenar, then accept "A Gift For Fiona" and kill Plaguehounds until you collect 10 Plaguehound Blood. Return to Fiona and turn in the blood. Accept "Onward to Light's Hope Chapel" and right-click the caravan to board with Fiona.

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