Friday, August 3, 2012
"Once in a Blue Moon"
Do you know where the expression came from???? Check this out...2 full moons in 1 month...not again until 2015 !!!http://www.infoplease.com/spot/bluemoon1.html/
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Keep Your Home Safe While You Vacation
Summer vacation — for most people, this phrase conjures images of sandy beaches, amusement parks, lakeside cabins, or family road trips.
For burglars, summer vacations are the perfect opportunity to take advantage of unoccupied homes and garages. In fact, property crimes spike during summer months, peaking in July and August.
Here are a few tips for protecting your home while you’re gone this summer:
Stay secure.
Before you leave, double check that all doors and windows are locked. Don’t forget the upstairs windows: AC units, ladders, nearby trees, and even garbage cans can give thieves access to those windows. Trim or remove shrubs that offer easy hiding places. Don’t leave spare keys outside; thieves know where to look, too.
Privacy matters.
Don’t post vacation plans on social media sites. You can’t completely control who sees your updates, regardless of your privacy settings. Have a trusted friend periodically check your home, but resist the temptation to announce your departure on the Internet.
Leave the light on.
Make it appear you haven’t left home at all. Stop your mail, or have a friend or neighbor collect it. Have someone mow your lawn if you’ll be away for a longer period of time. Set timers for inside lights or even a television. Don’t leave a porch light on continuously, though, as that could signal that you’re not home. Instead, install motion-sensing floodlights, even on the sides of your home. Many homeowners light up the front and back of their houses, but leave the sides dark, making it more inviting to burglars.
Don’t forget tiny invaders.
Bugs can also take advantage of empty homes. Before you leave, make sure all trashcans are emptied and cleaned. Don’t leave dirty dishes in the sink, and wipe any stray crumbs from kitchen countertops. Many bugs come inside in search of water, so fix any leaks before you leave.
For burglars, summer vacations are the perfect opportunity to take advantage of unoccupied homes and garages. In fact, property crimes spike during summer months, peaking in July and August.
Here are a few tips for protecting your home while you’re gone this summer:
Stay secure.
Before you leave, double check that all doors and windows are locked. Don’t forget the upstairs windows: AC units, ladders, nearby trees, and even garbage cans can give thieves access to those windows. Trim or remove shrubs that offer easy hiding places. Don’t leave spare keys outside; thieves know where to look, too.
Privacy matters.
Don’t post vacation plans on social media sites. You can’t completely control who sees your updates, regardless of your privacy settings. Have a trusted friend periodically check your home, but resist the temptation to announce your departure on the Internet.
Leave the light on.
Make it appear you haven’t left home at all. Stop your mail, or have a friend or neighbor collect it. Have someone mow your lawn if you’ll be away for a longer period of time. Set timers for inside lights or even a television. Don’t leave a porch light on continuously, though, as that could signal that you’re not home. Instead, install motion-sensing floodlights, even on the sides of your home. Many homeowners light up the front and back of their houses, but leave the sides dark, making it more inviting to burglars.
Don’t forget tiny invaders.
Bugs can also take advantage of empty homes. Before you leave, make sure all trashcans are emptied and cleaned. Don’t leave dirty dishes in the sink, and wipe any stray crumbs from kitchen countertops. Many bugs come inside in search of water, so fix any leaks before you leave.
Monday, July 23, 2012
Protecting and Caring for Your New Laptop or Tablet
August is the best time of year to purchase a new laptop or tablet due to back-to-school sales in stores as well as on computer manufacturers’ websites. As a business professional, you’ll want to take care of your new technology investments by keeping them clean and stored safely as you travel. The Tech Helpline has researched the best options to extend the life of your new device as well as how to keep it clean without damaging the bezel or screen.
Storage and travel: The first thing worth purchasing is a bag or case for your laptop or tablet. It's important to look into the options on the website from which you are purchasing your device, or from the store you are in, so you can be sure the case or bag and the device fit each other. You may want a bag as well as a case to store extra batteries and a mouse or power cable. It's also not a bad idea to purchase an extra battery for extended use on the road, but be absolutely sure the battery you purchase is directly from the manufacturer to avoid future issues that may occur with a cheaper, generic model.
Cleaning tips: The best item you can buy to store in your carry bag is a good quality micro fiber cloth. This will help you wipe finger smudges as well as light dirt from a screen or the bezel of your unit without scratching or needing liquids. For the bezel you may also consider using rubbing alcohol and a paper towel for tougher soiling. Follow this with the microfiber to remove the residue from the paper towel to have the bezel looking brand new. Be sure the device is completely off and unplugged before using any liquids to clean its screen or bezel.
Safety and extended life: With laptops you want to avoid soft surfaces like a bed or pillow, as it may block the vents causing it to overheat and lowering the life of the unit over time. Avoid drinks or liquids near your laptop or tablet; spilling these on your device could damage it to the point of being unable to use it, or void its warranty. You also want to avoid shocks or rapid motions when holding a laptop as the spinning hard drive inside could become damaged. Be sure the laptop is completely off before putting it in your case or bag; the movement can damage the spinning hard drive, which may lower its life expectancy, or cause the hard drive to fail or lose data. Additionally, if it’s not completely off, it will continue to generate heat if it's just in sleep mode. Finally, it’s best to avoid leaving a tablet or laptop in a hot car, especially during these summer months.
Contributions to this article were made by Allen Williams, Tech Helpline Technical Analyst.
Storage and travel: The first thing worth purchasing is a bag or case for your laptop or tablet. It's important to look into the options on the website from which you are purchasing your device, or from the store you are in, so you can be sure the case or bag and the device fit each other. You may want a bag as well as a case to store extra batteries and a mouse or power cable. It's also not a bad idea to purchase an extra battery for extended use on the road, but be absolutely sure the battery you purchase is directly from the manufacturer to avoid future issues that may occur with a cheaper, generic model.
Cleaning tips: The best item you can buy to store in your carry bag is a good quality micro fiber cloth. This will help you wipe finger smudges as well as light dirt from a screen or the bezel of your unit without scratching or needing liquids. For the bezel you may also consider using rubbing alcohol and a paper towel for tougher soiling. Follow this with the microfiber to remove the residue from the paper towel to have the bezel looking brand new. Be sure the device is completely off and unplugged before using any liquids to clean its screen or bezel.
Safety and extended life: With laptops you want to avoid soft surfaces like a bed or pillow, as it may block the vents causing it to overheat and lowering the life of the unit over time. Avoid drinks or liquids near your laptop or tablet; spilling these on your device could damage it to the point of being unable to use it, or void its warranty. You also want to avoid shocks or rapid motions when holding a laptop as the spinning hard drive inside could become damaged. Be sure the laptop is completely off before putting it in your case or bag; the movement can damage the spinning hard drive, which may lower its life expectancy, or cause the hard drive to fail or lose data. Additionally, if it’s not completely off, it will continue to generate heat if it's just in sleep mode. Finally, it’s best to avoid leaving a tablet or laptop in a hot car, especially during these summer months.
Contributions to this article were made by Allen Williams, Tech Helpline Technical Analyst.
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Thursday, July 12, 2012
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Rules of Thumb for Water Use on Lawns
How much water does a lawn need? In general, turf grasses need about 3/4 to 1 inch of water per week to maintain green color and active growth. However, during certain times in the summer when high temperatures are the norm, you should allow lawns to naturally slow down in growth. You can let the lawn go almost completely dormant in hot weather. In hot weather you may need an inch of water only about every three days.
In general, water as infrequently as possible. When you do water, water thoroughly so that moisture soaks down to the roots. One deep watering is much better than watering several times lightly. Watering to a depth of 4 to 6 inches encourages deeper, healthier root development. It also allows longer periods between watering. Early morning or night is the best time for watering, as less evaporation will occur at these cooler times.
How much water does a lawn need? In general, turf grasses need about 3/4 to 1 inch of water per week to maintain green color and active growth. However, during certain times in the summer when high temperatures are the norm, you should allow lawns to naturally slow down in growth. You can let the lawn go almost completely dormant in hot weather. In hot weather you may need an inch of water only about every three days.
In general, water as infrequently as possible. When you do water, water thoroughly so that moisture soaks down to the roots. One deep watering is much better than watering several times lightly. Watering to a depth of 4 to 6 inches encourages deeper, healthier root development. It also allows longer periods between watering. Early morning or night is the best time for watering, as less evaporation will occur at these cooler times.
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
Saturday, June 30, 2012
The Greater Birmingham Association of Homebuilders Report
GBAHB Mission Statement
Providing the voice of the housing industry, advocating for quality-built homes and promoting the highest level of professionalism.
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Don't Believe the Latest Internet Rumor
The Facts on that Rumored 3.8% Sales Tax on Homes
Among the most common tax and housing policy questions we field here at NAHB is whether a 3.8% sales tax will hit home sales in 2013.
The answer is no.
Unfortunately, we’ve been tracking a set of emails that falsely claim that the 2010 health care reform legislation (which contained a burdensome 1099 reporting requirement, now repealed) imposed a 3.8% sales tax or transfer fee on all home sales in 2013. There is an element of fact underlying this rumor, but for the most part this claim is false.
The new tax added by the health care reform law is an add-on to existing taxes on capital gains and other ”unearned income” (dividends, rents, and interest). The new 3.8% tax is often referred to as a Medicare tax because its revenues will be dedicated to the Medicare Trust Fund.
For capital gains, presently taxed at a 15% rate, the gains rate would rise an additional 3.8 percentage points for high-income taxpayers, those with adjusted gross incomes (AGI) above $250,000 ($200,000 if filing a “single” return). Capital gains arise with the sale of capital assets, such as stocks, bonds, and real estate.
But importantly for home sales, the existing $500,000 / $250,000 gain exclusion for a seller of a principal residence continues to apply, so most principal residences sales will not be affected. Some second home sellers with high incomes may have to pay some additional capital gains tax to the extent that their AGI exceeds $250,000, but only on that portion of the gain that causes the taxpayer’s AGI to exceed $250,000 and only for the realized capital gain - not the actual sales price.
Consider the following, typical example. Suppose a married couple sells their principal residence for $500,000, after having purchased the home for $200,000. Suppose the capital gain on the sale is $300,000. The couple is allowed (under Section 121 of the Internal Revenue Code) to exclude from all tax (including the standard capital gains tax and the new 3.8% tax) up to $500,000 of gain, so there is no tax on the realized $300,000 gain from the home sale.
To be clear, the 3.8% tax is not in any way a sales tax paid against the sales price of the home for either the home seller or home buyer. Nor is it an additional business income tax for home builders selling a new home out of inventory.
The housing market has enough policy uncertainties today. We hope this false rumor concerning a 3.8% sales tax on home sales is not among them.
Providing the voice of the housing industry, advocating for quality-built homes and promoting the highest level of professionalism.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Don't Believe the Latest Internet Rumor
The Facts on that Rumored 3.8% Sales Tax on Homes
Among the most common tax and housing policy questions we field here at NAHB is whether a 3.8% sales tax will hit home sales in 2013.
The answer is no.
Unfortunately, we’ve been tracking a set of emails that falsely claim that the 2010 health care reform legislation (which contained a burdensome 1099 reporting requirement, now repealed) imposed a 3.8% sales tax or transfer fee on all home sales in 2013. There is an element of fact underlying this rumor, but for the most part this claim is false.
The new tax added by the health care reform law is an add-on to existing taxes on capital gains and other ”unearned income” (dividends, rents, and interest). The new 3.8% tax is often referred to as a Medicare tax because its revenues will be dedicated to the Medicare Trust Fund.
For capital gains, presently taxed at a 15% rate, the gains rate would rise an additional 3.8 percentage points for high-income taxpayers, those with adjusted gross incomes (AGI) above $250,000 ($200,000 if filing a “single” return). Capital gains arise with the sale of capital assets, such as stocks, bonds, and real estate.
But importantly for home sales, the existing $500,000 / $250,000 gain exclusion for a seller of a principal residence continues to apply, so most principal residences sales will not be affected. Some second home sellers with high incomes may have to pay some additional capital gains tax to the extent that their AGI exceeds $250,000, but only on that portion of the gain that causes the taxpayer’s AGI to exceed $250,000 and only for the realized capital gain - not the actual sales price.
Consider the following, typical example. Suppose a married couple sells their principal residence for $500,000, after having purchased the home for $200,000. Suppose the capital gain on the sale is $300,000. The couple is allowed (under Section 121 of the Internal Revenue Code) to exclude from all tax (including the standard capital gains tax and the new 3.8% tax) up to $500,000 of gain, so there is no tax on the realized $300,000 gain from the home sale.
To be clear, the 3.8% tax is not in any way a sales tax paid against the sales price of the home for either the home seller or home buyer. Nor is it an additional business income tax for home builders selling a new home out of inventory.
The housing market has enough policy uncertainties today. We hope this false rumor concerning a 3.8% sales tax on home sales is not among them.
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
The 3 P's for Yard Sale Success
With the right tricks, you can turn your yard sale from a last-minute idea into an all-out success! Before the date arrives, try these three tips to plan for a profitable sale.
Preparation Planning ahead for your yard sale is one of the best ways to boost your profits. If you don’t have proper change or ways to protect fragile items, customers might decide against their purchase at the last minute. Here are some items you’ll want to collect in advance: Grocery bags for sold items Pricing stickers Signs and markers Folding tables for display Change for $20 bills Newspapers for wrapping fragile pieces Once you’ve got your supplies, it’s time to organize and categorize your items for easy display—and be sure to clean out any pieces that are dirty or dusty. If it looks grimy, customers won’t want to touch it, let alone purchase it.
Pricing To save yourself from headaches and hand cramps, use a color-coding system for your pricing. By displaying a “color key” to tell shoppers what each shade represents, you won’t have to write out prices on every item for sale. When it’s time to decide on prices, be realistic but don’t sell yourself short. If you think something may be valuable, do research online before sticking a price tag on it. Hint: If all items must go, consider reducing prices after a certain time of day—this might encourage unsure buyers to return and make the purchase.
Posting It’s easy to see why signage is so important: If people don’t know you’re having a sale, they probably won’t show up! So don’t forget to place ads in your local paper and be sure to post signs at popular intersections where passers-by are likely to see them. Make sure you include the date, time and your address, plus any deals or specials you might have. Hosting a sale doesn’t have to be complicated, and with the right preparation it can be fun! So before your sale day arrives, use these three tips to make your yard sale a success.
Preparation Planning ahead for your yard sale is one of the best ways to boost your profits. If you don’t have proper change or ways to protect fragile items, customers might decide against their purchase at the last minute. Here are some items you’ll want to collect in advance: Grocery bags for sold items Pricing stickers Signs and markers Folding tables for display Change for $20 bills Newspapers for wrapping fragile pieces Once you’ve got your supplies, it’s time to organize and categorize your items for easy display—and be sure to clean out any pieces that are dirty or dusty. If it looks grimy, customers won’t want to touch it, let alone purchase it.
Pricing To save yourself from headaches and hand cramps, use a color-coding system for your pricing. By displaying a “color key” to tell shoppers what each shade represents, you won’t have to write out prices on every item for sale. When it’s time to decide on prices, be realistic but don’t sell yourself short. If you think something may be valuable, do research online before sticking a price tag on it. Hint: If all items must go, consider reducing prices after a certain time of day—this might encourage unsure buyers to return and make the purchase.
Posting It’s easy to see why signage is so important: If people don’t know you’re having a sale, they probably won’t show up! So don’t forget to place ads in your local paper and be sure to post signs at popular intersections where passers-by are likely to see them. Make sure you include the date, time and your address, plus any deals or specials you might have. Hosting a sale doesn’t have to be complicated, and with the right preparation it can be fun! So before your sale day arrives, use these three tips to make your yard sale a success.
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Monday, May 21, 2012
Awesome Photos 2012 Solar Eclipse !!
Saturday, May 19, 2012
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Monday, May 14, 2012
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Friday, April 20, 2012
Quote of the Day
Quote of the Day..."It isn't the mountain ahead that wears you out; it's the grain of sand in your shoe"...Robert W. Service
Friday, April 13, 2012
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Friday, April 6, 2012
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Monday, March 12, 2012
Friday, March 9, 2012
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Monday, February 27, 2012
The Origin of Leap Year
The first calendar system that included the concept of a leap year, which was needed to bring the calendar system more in line with the rotation of the earth, was introduced by King Ptolemy III of Egypt in 238 B.C.
The introduction of the Julian calendar by Julius Caesar in 46 B.C. also used leap years to maintain the accuracy of the calendar.
The introduction of the Julian calendar by Julius Caesar in 46 B.C. also used leap years to maintain the accuracy of the calendar.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Monday, February 20, 2012
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Monday, February 13, 2012
Driveway Stain Remover
Driveway Stain Remover
Here's a hint from a November 2004 Popular Mechanics issue: "If you do your own work on your car or other equipment like lawnmowers or chain saws, you're bound to have oil stains on your garage floor or driveway. Here's something that works and is basically free: ground-up drywall. Pulverize a small piece with a hammer, then grind it up in your hands and sprinkle it over the stains. Let it stay in place overnight before rinsing it off. If the first application doesn't remove the whole stain, try it again. Some very old stains can take three or more applications."
Here's a hint from a November 2004 Popular Mechanics issue: "If you do your own work on your car or other equipment like lawnmowers or chain saws, you're bound to have oil stains on your garage floor or driveway. Here's something that works and is basically free: ground-up drywall. Pulverize a small piece with a hammer, then grind it up in your hands and sprinkle it over the stains. Let it stay in place overnight before rinsing it off. If the first application doesn't remove the whole stain, try it again. Some very old stains can take three or more applications."
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Thought For The Day
"Opportunity - That is one of the tricks of opportunity. It has a sly habit of slipping in by the back door, and often it comes disguised in the form of misfortune, or temporary defeat. Perhaps this is why so many fail to recognize opportunity."
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
The Law of Success - Personal Initiative by Napoleon Hill
Personal initiative means doing the thing that needs to be done without being told to do it. This is the self-starter principle. It starts the ball rolling. It gets action. It causes things to happen. Don't wait for things to happen; build a fire of personal initiative under them and make them happen.
There are people who have come all the way through life rendering extra service and yet have wound up in the poorhouse. They were absolutely honest, which gave everybody a chance to exploit them and they became draft horses for lazy persons who took advantage of their good nature and imposed upon them. There can be no compromise with honesty. A person must use wisdom and be careful about telling the whole truth to everyone. There are other persons around everywhere who can and will take advantage of the fellow who is naive enough to think that he can reveal all he knows about everything, because in doing so he leaves himself vulnerable to attack in vital spots.
And what about this habit of allowing people to impose on you, thus assuming the role of a draft horse? You must see to it that the law of compensation and the law of increasing returns work for you. It's one thing to cast your bread upon the water and wait for it to come back. But sometimes it comes back all moldy and soggy and unappetizing. The key to this strategic principle of going the extra mile is that you do it with purpose aforethought, or definiteness of purpose, counting on a fair return, sometime, somewhere. This is casting your bread upon the water and then keeping an eye on where it goes. Sometimes it is necessary to check on it and see that it starts on the way back, with maybe a little butter or jam on it.
There are people who have come all the way through life rendering extra service and yet have wound up in the poorhouse. They were absolutely honest, which gave everybody a chance to exploit them and they became draft horses for lazy persons who took advantage of their good nature and imposed upon them. There can be no compromise with honesty. A person must use wisdom and be careful about telling the whole truth to everyone. There are other persons around everywhere who can and will take advantage of the fellow who is naive enough to think that he can reveal all he knows about everything, because in doing so he leaves himself vulnerable to attack in vital spots.
And what about this habit of allowing people to impose on you, thus assuming the role of a draft horse? You must see to it that the law of compensation and the law of increasing returns work for you. It's one thing to cast your bread upon the water and wait for it to come back. But sometimes it comes back all moldy and soggy and unappetizing. The key to this strategic principle of going the extra mile is that you do it with purpose aforethought, or definiteness of purpose, counting on a fair return, sometime, somewhere. This is casting your bread upon the water and then keeping an eye on where it goes. Sometimes it is necessary to check on it and see that it starts on the way back, with maybe a little butter or jam on it.
Friday, February 3, 2012
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Are you ready for six more weeks of winter???
Punxsutawney says "Yes"...."immortal rodent says six more weeks of winter, according to handler...
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Monday, January 16, 2012
A NEW TECHNIQUE USED BY GANGS
"IF YOU ARE DRIVING AT NIGHT AND EGGS ARE THROWN AT YOUR WINDSHIELD, DO NOT STOP TO CHECK YOUR CAR, DO NOT OPERATE THE WIPERS AND DO NOT SPRAY ANY WATER BECAUSE EGGS MIXED WITH WATER BECOME MILKY, AND BLOCK YOUR VISION UP TO 92.5%, AND YOU ARE THEN FORCED TO STOP BESIDE THE ROAD AND BECOME A VICTIM OF THESE CRIMINALS.
THIS IS A NEW TECHNIQUE USED BY GANGS, SO PLEASE INFORM YOUR FRIENDS AND RELATIVES.
THESE ARE DESPERATE TIMES AND THESE ARE UNSAVORY INDIVIDUALS WHO WILL TAKE DESPERATE MEASURES TO GET WHAT THEY WANT."
THIS IS A NEW TECHNIQUE USED BY GANGS, SO PLEASE INFORM YOUR FRIENDS AND RELATIVES.
THESE ARE DESPERATE TIMES AND THESE ARE UNSAVORY INDIVIDUALS WHO WILL TAKE DESPERATE MEASURES TO GET WHAT THEY WANT."
Saturday, January 14, 2012
You Can Help Prevent Allergies from Developing at a Young Age
Preventing Allergies from Developing
Because you can't control whether or not you develop allergies, the line between uncontrollable risks (which are out of your control) and controllable factors is grey. It's not possible for adults to decrease their risk of developing allergies, because allergy development isn't related to lifestyle habits. Intervention needs to occur early--during infancy and childhood. The following risk factors are considered uncontrollable for adults, but you can keep them in mind if you want to intervene to help prevent your child (and future generations) from developing allergies.
Infancy Exposure to Breastfeeding. Exclusively breastfeeding a baby for at least six months can greatly reduce her risk of developing food allergies later in life.
Childhood Exposure to Bacteria. Early exposure to common household microbes, environmental bacteria, fermented foods, and probiotics may reduce a child's risk of developing allergies as she gets older.
Childhood Exposure to Antibiotics. Early exposure to antibiotics seems to disrupt the balance between harmful and helpful bacteria in the body, confusing the immune system and therefore increasing a child's risk of developing environmental and food allergies.
Childhood Exposure to Allergens. When a child is exposed to common allergens (such as dust mites and mold) early in life, she has a lower chance of developing allergies to these substances.
Childhood Exposure to Pets. The presence of an animal in the home, especially during the first year of life when the immune system is still developing, has been associated with a decreased risk of allergies to pet dander, as well as to other allergens such as molds and dust mites.
Childhood Exposure to Secondhand Smoke. Children are at special risk of lung damage and illness from inhaled secondhand smoke.
Because you can't control whether or not you develop allergies, the line between uncontrollable risks (which are out of your control) and controllable factors is grey. It's not possible for adults to decrease their risk of developing allergies, because allergy development isn't related to lifestyle habits. Intervention needs to occur early--during infancy and childhood. The following risk factors are considered uncontrollable for adults, but you can keep them in mind if you want to intervene to help prevent your child (and future generations) from developing allergies.
Infancy Exposure to Breastfeeding. Exclusively breastfeeding a baby for at least six months can greatly reduce her risk of developing food allergies later in life.
Childhood Exposure to Bacteria. Early exposure to common household microbes, environmental bacteria, fermented foods, and probiotics may reduce a child's risk of developing allergies as she gets older.
Childhood Exposure to Antibiotics. Early exposure to antibiotics seems to disrupt the balance between harmful and helpful bacteria in the body, confusing the immune system and therefore increasing a child's risk of developing environmental and food allergies.
Childhood Exposure to Allergens. When a child is exposed to common allergens (such as dust mites and mold) early in life, she has a lower chance of developing allergies to these substances.
Childhood Exposure to Pets. The presence of an animal in the home, especially during the first year of life when the immune system is still developing, has been associated with a decreased risk of allergies to pet dander, as well as to other allergens such as molds and dust mites.
Childhood Exposure to Secondhand Smoke. Children are at special risk of lung damage and illness from inhaled secondhand smoke.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
All enduring success is founded upon harmonious human relationships.
Most of us are incapable of “going it alone.” Whether it is in our careers, our personal relationships, or in life, we all need others if we are to achieve the level of success we desire. Besides, what’s the point of having it all if we have no one we care about to share it? You may choose to work with others, you may ignore them, or you may choose to work against them, but the greatest successes in life come to those who work harmoniously with others. When your personal goals coincide with those of another, not only does the power of your combined labors benefit you, but such cooperation also creates a synergistic effect that allows you to achieve far more than the simple sum of your individual efforts.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Failure is a blessing when it pushes us out of a cushioned seat of self-satisfaction and forces us to do something useful.
If you carefully study your own life and those of achievers whom you admire, it is an absolute certainty you will discover that your greatest opportunities often occurred during times of adversity. It is only when faced with the possibility of failure that we are willing to deal with radical change and take the risks that lead to great success. When you experience temporary failure and you know that it is temporary, you can capitalize on the opportunities adversity always brings.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
First Thing Every Morning
If you had a bank that credited your account each morning with $86,400—with no balance carried from day to day—what would you do? Well, you do have such a bank...time.
Every morning it credits you with 86,400 seconds. Every night it rules off as "lost" whatever you have failed to use toward good purposes. It carries over no balances and allows no overdrafts. You can't hoard it, save it, store it, loan it or invest it. You can only use it—time.
Here's a story that drives the point home.
Arthur Berry was described by Time as "the slickest second-story man in the East," truly one of the most famous jewel thieves of all times. In his years of crime, he committed as many as 150 burglaries and stole jewels valued between $5 and $10 million. He seldom robbed from anyone not listed in the Social Register and often did his work in a tuxedo. On an occasion or two, when caught in the act of a crime by a victim, he charmed his way out of being reported to the police.
Like most people who engage in a life of crime, he was eventually caught, convicted and served 25 years in prison for his crimes. Following his release, he worked as a counterman in a roadside restaurant on the East Coast for $50 a week.
A newspaper reporter found him and interviewed him about his life. After telling about the thrilling episodes of his life he came to the conclusion of the interview saying, "I am not good at morals. But early in my life I was intelligent and clever, and I got along well with people. I think I could have made something of my life, but I didn't. So when you write the story of my life, when you tell people about all the burglaries, don't leave out the biggest one of all... Don't just tell them I robbed Jesse Livermore, the Wall Street baron or the cousin of the king of England. You tell them Arthur Berry robbed Arthur Berry."
Here are six terrific truths about time:
First: Nobody can manage time. But you can manage those things that take up your time.
Second: Time is expensive. As a matter of fact, 80 percent of our day is spent on those things or those people that only bring us two percent of our results.
Third: Time is perishable. It cannot be saved for later use.
Fourth: Time is measurable. Everybody has the same amount of time...pauper or king. It is not how much time you have; it is how much you use.
Fifth: Time is irreplaceable. We never make back time once it is gone.
Sixth: Time is a priority. You have enough time for anything in the world, so long as it ranks high enough among your priorities.
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What you've just read is an excerpt from First Thing Every Morning by Lewis Timberlake.
Every morning it credits you with 86,400 seconds. Every night it rules off as "lost" whatever you have failed to use toward good purposes. It carries over no balances and allows no overdrafts. You can't hoard it, save it, store it, loan it or invest it. You can only use it—time.
Here's a story that drives the point home.
Arthur Berry was described by Time as "the slickest second-story man in the East," truly one of the most famous jewel thieves of all times. In his years of crime, he committed as many as 150 burglaries and stole jewels valued between $5 and $10 million. He seldom robbed from anyone not listed in the Social Register and often did his work in a tuxedo. On an occasion or two, when caught in the act of a crime by a victim, he charmed his way out of being reported to the police.
Like most people who engage in a life of crime, he was eventually caught, convicted and served 25 years in prison for his crimes. Following his release, he worked as a counterman in a roadside restaurant on the East Coast for $50 a week.
A newspaper reporter found him and interviewed him about his life. After telling about the thrilling episodes of his life he came to the conclusion of the interview saying, "I am not good at morals. But early in my life I was intelligent and clever, and I got along well with people. I think I could have made something of my life, but I didn't. So when you write the story of my life, when you tell people about all the burglaries, don't leave out the biggest one of all... Don't just tell them I robbed Jesse Livermore, the Wall Street baron or the cousin of the king of England. You tell them Arthur Berry robbed Arthur Berry."
Here are six terrific truths about time:
First: Nobody can manage time. But you can manage those things that take up your time.
Second: Time is expensive. As a matter of fact, 80 percent of our day is spent on those things or those people that only bring us two percent of our results.
Third: Time is perishable. It cannot be saved for later use.
Fourth: Time is measurable. Everybody has the same amount of time...pauper or king. It is not how much time you have; it is how much you use.
Fifth: Time is irreplaceable. We never make back time once it is gone.
Sixth: Time is a priority. You have enough time for anything in the world, so long as it ranks high enough among your priorities.
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What you've just read is an excerpt from First Thing Every Morning by Lewis Timberlake.
Monday, December 19, 2011
There always remains an opportunity to make a new start.
Though it may not seem so when you first encounter a serious blow, you can never lose two of the most important assets you have. These are the power of your mind and your freedom to use it. Once you have turned them to understanding what laid you low, you can begin forming new plans. You may not have the money you once had; you may lack the allies you had cultivated. But you still have the benefit of a universe that eventually rewards honest effort, as well as gaining the experience of mistakes you will never make again. Remember, no matter where you are now, whatever you can conceive and believe, you can achieve.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Monday, December 5, 2011
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Thought For The Day
Edison failed 10,000 times before perfecting the incandescent electric light bulb. Don't worry if you fail once.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
The Law of Success - Replace Fear with Faith by Napoleon Hill
The first problem we have is to replace fear with understanding and faith in ourselves. To do this, let us examine the mechanism of fear and its relation to bodily function.
First and foremost, let me tell you that temporary, fleeting fear is a very important and quite normal function of the human mind. The fleeting fear of being hit as we cross the street only serves to make us cautions - it protects our life - by momentarily forcing our attention on the problem of getting across safely. Thus, fear teaches us caution, but the fear is forgotten as soon as we have safely crossed.
The second important purpose of fear is to mobilize the body functions in defense of our life against a threatening situation. Consider for a moment early primitive man, sitting warmed by his fire in the gathering dusk, and enjoying a meal prepared during the day. Certainly, this early man was at peace with the world and the toils of the day were forgotten. At this moment let us say, a twig cracked in the forest - a sign of danger. An enemy was near.
Frequently fear is no longer a reaction to a specific danger, but a thoroughly learned habit of response, perhaps learned in early childhood. Although the need of this response has long since been lost, the pattern of thinking may persist, and now is defeating your quest for happiness and effective living. We fear most the unknown. Seek knowledge and understanding of your fear, and it will be replaced by faith. One must cultivate and nurture a positive mental attitude to achieve that smooth, effectively functioning mind-body you are seeking.
First and foremost, let me tell you that temporary, fleeting fear is a very important and quite normal function of the human mind. The fleeting fear of being hit as we cross the street only serves to make us cautions - it protects our life - by momentarily forcing our attention on the problem of getting across safely. Thus, fear teaches us caution, but the fear is forgotten as soon as we have safely crossed.
The second important purpose of fear is to mobilize the body functions in defense of our life against a threatening situation. Consider for a moment early primitive man, sitting warmed by his fire in the gathering dusk, and enjoying a meal prepared during the day. Certainly, this early man was at peace with the world and the toils of the day were forgotten. At this moment let us say, a twig cracked in the forest - a sign of danger. An enemy was near.
Frequently fear is no longer a reaction to a specific danger, but a thoroughly learned habit of response, perhaps learned in early childhood. Although the need of this response has long since been lost, the pattern of thinking may persist, and now is defeating your quest for happiness and effective living. We fear most the unknown. Seek knowledge and understanding of your fear, and it will be replaced by faith. One must cultivate and nurture a positive mental attitude to achieve that smooth, effectively functioning mind-body you are seeking.
Monday, November 14, 2011
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
The Law of Success - Eternal Change by Napoleon Hill
Strange also is the fact that only one thing is permanent in this universe—eternal change. Nothing remains exactly the same for even a second. Even the physical body in which we live changes completely with astonishing rapidity.
You can test these statements against your own experience.
When a person is struggling for recognition and to get a few dollars ahead, seldom will he find anyone to give him a needed lift. But once he makes the grade—and no longer needs help—people stand in line to offer him aid.
Through what I call the law of attraction, like attracts like in all circumstances. Success attracts greater success. Failure attracts more failure.
Throughout our lives we are the beneficiaries or victims of a swiftly flowing stream which carries us onward toward either success or failure.
The idea is to get on the “success beam” rather than on the “failure beam.”
How can you do this? Simple. The answer lies in adopting a positive mental attitude that will help you shape the course of your own destiny rather than drifting along at the mercy of life’s adversities.
Source: Miami Daily News, Summer, 1956
You can test these statements against your own experience.
When a person is struggling for recognition and to get a few dollars ahead, seldom will he find anyone to give him a needed lift. But once he makes the grade—and no longer needs help—people stand in line to offer him aid.
Through what I call the law of attraction, like attracts like in all circumstances. Success attracts greater success. Failure attracts more failure.
Throughout our lives we are the beneficiaries or victims of a swiftly flowing stream which carries us onward toward either success or failure.
The idea is to get on the “success beam” rather than on the “failure beam.”
How can you do this? Simple. The answer lies in adopting a positive mental attitude that will help you shape the course of your own destiny rather than drifting along at the mercy of life’s adversities.
Source: Miami Daily News, Summer, 1956
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Monday, October 31, 2011
When adversity overtakes you, it pays to be thankful it was not worse instead of worrying over your misfortune.
There are few things in life that are as bad as they seem at first. Dealing with adversity begins with analyzing and accepting your situation for what it is. When you realize that things are not nearly as bad as they might have been, you have taken the first step toward working your way through the problem. It is a truism that you will never be asked to carry a heavier load than you can bear, but it sometimes helps you better appreciate that fact if you volunteer some of your time to help those who are less fortunate than you are.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Human faults are like garden weeds. They grow with out cultivation and soon take over the place if they aren't thinned out.
Habits are formed so slowly that most of us don’t realize what is happening until the habits are too strongly entrenched to be broken. Seldom can one pattern of behavior be eliminated without replacing it with another. It has been said that nature abhors a vacuum and will always find something to fill a void. The best way to thin out the “weeds,” or faults in your character, is to identify those traits with which you are dissatisfied and replace them with their positive counterparts. If you have a tendency to lose your temper, for example, find a replacement for your anger. Neutralize it with a positive expression or affirmation, such as, “No one can make me angry unless I let them. I will not let anyone else control my emotions.”
Monday, October 24, 2011
Law of Sucess - "What Do We Mean by Believe?" By Napoleon Hill
Wishing won't make it so," runs an old saying. This is true, and helps you remember a wish is not a belief.
A wish takes place, as it were, upon the surface of the mind. I wish . . . you may say, and follow with any wish that tickles your fancy . . . to have a million dollars drop into your lap . . . to be able to flap your arms and fly. A wish is not limited by natural forces. That very apparent fact, however, is not the main difference between a wish and a belief.
A belief is created, as it were, in the depths of the mind. A belief becomes part of you. That is why a true, deep belief can change your glandular secretions and the content of your bloodstream, and work other physical changes beyond the power of medical science to explain. Again, a belief, radiating its unknown wave length from the depths of your mind to the depths of another mind, accounts for a good deal of "personality power" and much else on which we can put only the clumsiest of labels. It is belief in a cause - much stronger than a wish to stay alive - which causes people to transcend ever the instinct of self-preservation. It is belief that founds religion, sustains nations, stands behind anything great that ever is achieved. A belief, I repeat, is part of you; that is why you can achieve what you believe. Moreover, when you hold a great belief you believe all the time, just as, all the time, you go on living.
A wish takes place, as it were, upon the surface of the mind. I wish . . . you may say, and follow with any wish that tickles your fancy . . . to have a million dollars drop into your lap . . . to be able to flap your arms and fly. A wish is not limited by natural forces. That very apparent fact, however, is not the main difference between a wish and a belief.
A belief is created, as it were, in the depths of the mind. A belief becomes part of you. That is why a true, deep belief can change your glandular secretions and the content of your bloodstream, and work other physical changes beyond the power of medical science to explain. Again, a belief, radiating its unknown wave length from the depths of your mind to the depths of another mind, accounts for a good deal of "personality power" and much else on which we can put only the clumsiest of labels. It is belief in a cause - much stronger than a wish to stay alive - which causes people to transcend ever the instinct of self-preservation. It is belief that founds religion, sustains nations, stands behind anything great that ever is achieved. A belief, I repeat, is part of you; that is why you can achieve what you believe. Moreover, when you hold a great belief you believe all the time, just as, all the time, you go on living.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Monday, October 17, 2011
The most interesting thing about a postage stamp is the persistence with which it sticks to it's job.
The tiny, insignificant postage stamp is a good example of what it is possible to achieve if you stick with the job until it is finished. Inconspicuously stuck on the corner of the envelope, it provides the impetus to keep moving until the entire packet reaches its ultimate destination. The influence you may have upon your company, your church, your family, or any organization is incalculable if you have the persistence to pursue your goal until you achieve it. It is an absolute certainty that you will encounter obstacles in any worthwhile endeavor. When you do, remember the inconsequential little postage stamp and stick with the job until it is finished.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
The average person would have quit at the first failure. That's why there have been many average men and only one Edison.
Thomas Edison once observed that the reason most folks don’t recognize opportunity when it comes knocking is that it is often dressed in overalls and looks like work. Edison knew that anything worthwhile never comes easily; if it were easy, anyone could do it. Because he persisted far beyond the point the average person would consider reasonable and rational, he produced inventions that even the most learned people of the day considered impossible. Great advances in knowledge are often achieved by people with an almost fanatical devotion to finding the solution to a problem. Flashes of inspiration alone are not enough to ensure success; they must be followed by determined, persistent action.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
HOW TO READ BAR CODES
If food products are made in China, you can never tell what unclean products they may put into them.
ALWAYS READ THE LABELS ON THE FOODS YOU BUY--NO MATTER WHAT THE FRONT OF THE BOX OR PACKAGE SAYS, TURN IT OVER AND READ THE BACK---CAREFULLY!
With all the food and pet products now coming from China, it is best to make sure you read labels at the grocery store and especially Walmart when buying food products. Many products no longer show where they were made, only give where the distributor is located. It is important to read the bar code to track it's origin.
How to read Bar Codes
This may be useful to know when grocery shopping, if it's a concern to you.
GREAT WAY TO "BUY USA & CANADA" AND NOT FROM CHINA!!
The whole world is afraid of China-made "black hearted goods".
Can you differentiate which one is made in Taiwan or China?
If the first 3 digits of the barcode are 690, 691 or 692, the product is MADE IN CHINA.
471 is Made in Taiwan.
This is our right to know, but the government and related departments never educate the public, therefore we have to RESCUE ourselves.
Nowadays, Chinese businessmen know that consumers do not prefer products "MADE IN CHINA ", so they don't show from which country it is made. However, you may now refer to the barcode -remember if the first 3 digits are:
690-692 ... then it is MADE IN CHINA
00 - 09 ... USA & CANADA
30 - 37 ... FRANCE
40 - 44 ... GERMANY
471 ... Taiwan
49 ... JAPAN
50 ... UK
BUY USA & CANADIAN MADE by watching for "0" at the beginning of the number.
We need every boost we can get!
Friday, October 7, 2011
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Street Smart Safety Seminar
& BAR present a
Street Smart Safety
SEMINAR!
With Officer Bill Cain National Public Safety Coalition
Friday, October 14
Association Office 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
How do you avoid danger? What to do if you are attacked.
DON’T MISS THIS FREE PERSONAL SAFETY SEMINAR
Speaker Bill Cain is a 9-year police veteran
He graduated first in his class at the Georgia Police Academy
He is a specialist in gang intelligence and crime prevention procedures
He is considered by many as one of the top authorities in this field
Question and answer session will follow seminar
Personal safety items will be available for sale
BREAKFAST & DOOR PRIZE DRAWINGS included
REGISTRATION FORM:
Seating is limited. Reservations are required.
Name: ________________________________________________________
Cell Phone: ___________________ Email: __________________________
Firm: _________________________________________________________
Complete form and FAX to the BAR office: 802-6074
Street Smart Safety
SEMINAR!
With Officer Bill Cain National Public Safety Coalition
Friday, October 14
Association Office 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
How do you avoid danger? What to do if you are attacked.
DON’T MISS THIS FREE PERSONAL SAFETY SEMINAR
Speaker Bill Cain is a 9-year police veteran
He graduated first in his class at the Georgia Police Academy
He is a specialist in gang intelligence and crime prevention procedures
He is considered by many as one of the top authorities in this field
Question and answer session will follow seminar
Personal safety items will be available for sale
BREAKFAST & DOOR PRIZE DRAWINGS included
REGISTRATION FORM:
Seating is limited. Reservations are required.
Name: ________________________________________________________
Cell Phone: ___________________ Email: __________________________
Firm: _________________________________________________________
Complete form and FAX to the BAR office: 802-6074
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
The Law of Success...A Philosopher's Creed...By Napoleon Hill
Let me be open-minded on all subjects so that I may grow mentally and spiritually.
May the time never come when I will be above learning from the humblest person.
Let me never forget that a closed mind is a narrow mind.
May I never express opinions on any subject unless they are founded upon reasonable dependable knowledge.
Forbid that I should ever find fault with another because he may not agree with me.
May I always show a wholesome respect for those with whom I may not agree.
Let me be always mindful of the fact that all my knowledge is as nothing when compared to all that remains to be learned.
Give me the courage to admit my ignorance when I am asked a question about which I know little or nothing.
May I always share with others such knowledge as I may possess which can be of help to them.
Let me never forget that humility of heart will attract more friends than all the wisdom of mankind.
Let me remain ever a student in search of truth, and never pretend to be a finished scholar on any subject.
May the time never come when I will be above learning from the humblest person.
Let me never forget that a closed mind is a narrow mind.
May I never express opinions on any subject unless they are founded upon reasonable dependable knowledge.
Forbid that I should ever find fault with another because he may not agree with me.
May I always show a wholesome respect for those with whom I may not agree.
Let me be always mindful of the fact that all my knowledge is as nothing when compared to all that remains to be learned.
Give me the courage to admit my ignorance when I am asked a question about which I know little or nothing.
May I always share with others such knowledge as I may possess which can be of help to them.
Let me never forget that humility of heart will attract more friends than all the wisdom of mankind.
Let me remain ever a student in search of truth, and never pretend to be a finished scholar on any subject.
Friday, September 23, 2011
The following was found posted very low on a refrigerator door.
Dear Dogs and Cats: The dishes with the paw prints are yours and contain your food. The other dishes are mine and contain my food. Placing a paw print in the middle of my plate and food does not stake a claim for it becoming your food and dish, nor do I find that aesthetically pleasing in the slightest.
The stairway was not designed by NASCAR and is not a racetrack. Racing me to the bottom is not the object. Tripping me doesn't help because I fall faster than you can run.
I cannot buy anything bigger than a king sized bed. I am very sorry about this. Do not think I will continue sleeping on the couch to ensure your comfort, however. Dogs and cats can actually curl up in a ball when they sleep. It is not necessary to sleep perpendicular to each other, stretched out to the fullest extent possible. I also know that sticking tails straight out and having tongues hanging out on the other end to maximize space is nothing but sarcasm.
For the last time, there is no secret exit from the bathroom! If, by some miracle, I beat you there and manage to get the door shut, it is not necessary to claw, whine, meow, try to turn the knob or get your paw under the edge in an attempt to open the door. I must exit through the same door I entered. Also, I have been using the bathroom for years - canine/feline attendance is not required.
The proper order for kissing is: Kiss me first and then go smell the other dog or cat's butt. I cannot stress this enough!
The stairway was not designed by NASCAR and is not a racetrack. Racing me to the bottom is not the object. Tripping me doesn't help because I fall faster than you can run.
I cannot buy anything bigger than a king sized bed. I am very sorry about this. Do not think I will continue sleeping on the couch to ensure your comfort, however. Dogs and cats can actually curl up in a ball when they sleep. It is not necessary to sleep perpendicular to each other, stretched out to the fullest extent possible. I also know that sticking tails straight out and having tongues hanging out on the other end to maximize space is nothing but sarcasm.
For the last time, there is no secret exit from the bathroom! If, by some miracle, I beat you there and manage to get the door shut, it is not necessary to claw, whine, meow, try to turn the knob or get your paw under the edge in an attempt to open the door. I must exit through the same door I entered. Also, I have been using the bathroom for years - canine/feline attendance is not required.
The proper order for kissing is: Kiss me first and then go smell the other dog or cat's butt. I cannot stress this enough!
Monday, September 19, 2011
Faith is a combination of thoughts and actions.
When you apply your faith in yourself, your faith in your fellow man, and your faith in God, the result is a positive course of action that when persistently followed will almost always lead to success. When you believe in your ideas and in your abilities, and you trust in the Infinite Intelligence of the universe, you know that your thoughts and deeds will ultimately lead to a successful conclusion. You cannot fail.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
September Maintenance Suggestions
September Maintenance Suggestions
Caulk the Exterior
Any gap on the outside of your home may be a spot for caulking. Check the corners, windows, doors, areas where masonry joins siding, or places where vents and other objects extend from walls. Read manufacturer's directions to select the appropriate caulk for the task.
Check the Insulation
This is a good time to check the condition of insulation, especially in an older home. If your walls aren’t insulated, professionally installed blown-in insulation will probably pay for itself in a couple of years.
Check the Gutters
Make sure the downspouts and gutters are not clogged, smashed or open at joints to prevent moisture or ice damage later.
Check the Weather Stripping
Check weather stripping and add as necessary to doors and windows to keep moisture and cold air out. Various fixes are readily available (gaskets, thresholds, etc.) to fill gaps.
Clean the Dryer Vent
You should do this twice a year, in fall and spring. Carefully move the dryer away from the wall, unplug it and vacuum behind it. (If it's a gas dryer, turn off the gas supply to the dryer at the appliance shutoff valve.) Unhook the tube that leads to the vent and clear as much lint from the tube as possible. Carefully remove the outside vent cover, and using a shop vacuum or a dryer lint brush, clean as far up the vent as you can from the outside.
Check the Storm Windows
Repair and clean cracked or dirty storm windows before installing them.
Use Vent Covers to Help Protect Pipes
Have cut-to-size plywood or foam vent covers available for the cold side of your house and place them against the exterior basement vents during extra cold spells to help keep your pipes from freezing. Be sure to uncover them in the spring; the vents are needed to prevent moisture accumulation when it’s warmer.
Keep Rodents Out
In the fall, mice, rats and squirrels seek warm, dry places such as your house. Mice can squeeze through a quarter-inch opening and rats half-inch opening. Check that all exterior vents are screened, and that there are no gaps underneath windows, doors and garage doors.
Caulk the Exterior
Any gap on the outside of your home may be a spot for caulking. Check the corners, windows, doors, areas where masonry joins siding, or places where vents and other objects extend from walls. Read manufacturer's directions to select the appropriate caulk for the task.
Check the Insulation
This is a good time to check the condition of insulation, especially in an older home. If your walls aren’t insulated, professionally installed blown-in insulation will probably pay for itself in a couple of years.
Check the Gutters
Make sure the downspouts and gutters are not clogged, smashed or open at joints to prevent moisture or ice damage later.
Check the Weather Stripping
Check weather stripping and add as necessary to doors and windows to keep moisture and cold air out. Various fixes are readily available (gaskets, thresholds, etc.) to fill gaps.
Clean the Dryer Vent
You should do this twice a year, in fall and spring. Carefully move the dryer away from the wall, unplug it and vacuum behind it. (If it's a gas dryer, turn off the gas supply to the dryer at the appliance shutoff valve.) Unhook the tube that leads to the vent and clear as much lint from the tube as possible. Carefully remove the outside vent cover, and using a shop vacuum or a dryer lint brush, clean as far up the vent as you can from the outside.
Check the Storm Windows
Repair and clean cracked or dirty storm windows before installing them.
Use Vent Covers to Help Protect Pipes
Have cut-to-size plywood or foam vent covers available for the cold side of your house and place them against the exterior basement vents during extra cold spells to help keep your pipes from freezing. Be sure to uncover them in the spring; the vents are needed to prevent moisture accumulation when it’s warmer.
Keep Rodents Out
In the fall, mice, rats and squirrels seek warm, dry places such as your house. Mice can squeeze through a quarter-inch opening and rats half-inch opening. Check that all exterior vents are screened, and that there are no gaps underneath windows, doors and garage doors.
Friday, September 2, 2011
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