But there is always room to add new crafting ideas in your repertoire that may just make you the hit on the street.

Here are the perennial favorites that are a “must do” for your Easter crafting session plus a few that are fun and easy and add a bit of pizzazz to those eggs and cartons creations.

Thinking Outside The Egg Carton

1. Pringles Can Baskets. Take a small empty Pringles can; cover it with pastel-colored construction paper. Glue ear-shapes at the top and feet at the bottom. Add googly eyes and pompoms for a nose and mouth shape. Use pipe cleaners to make the handle.
As a lover of crafts with my kids and now grandkids, I am always looking for new ideas to get their creative juices flowing. I swear I don’t know who enjoys our crafting sessions more, me or them.
2. Instead of messy egg painting, hard-boil some eggs and use stickers, glue-on felt or foam pieces for a the younger crowd.
3. Empty egg cartons are Easter crafts essentials. The cups can be cut out, painted and add some pipe clearers and you have colourful flowers. Cartons can also be painted and used to display newly decorated Easter eggs.
4. Instead of using new construction paper for weaved Easter baskets, use strips of recycled magazine pages for a variety of color.
5. Baby chicks in an egg basket. Glue yellow pompons into an egg carton, orange diamond shaped felt becomes the beak and add googly eyes for a fun effect.
6. Go green this Easter by using your own grass instead of using the plastic kind. Or shred a newspaper and compost or recycle it later.
7. Egg coloring tip: Draw on your egg with a crayon or unlit birthday candle. Then dip in dye and the wax patterns will remain.
I have to admit, as much as I love my craft corner with all my labeled drawers and cabinets, I do get a little flustered when I am vacuuming up glitter months later. That stuff manages to stick to everything even without glue.
8. Empty eggshells with a small opening in the top make great edible Easter eggs. Layer a variety of candy melt colors for a fun design.
9. Making a baby chicks by traced hands cut out of yellow construction paper for the perfect wings.
10. Instead of trying to die eggs with a design, do something easier. Die eggs in single colors and when dry, glue on ribbon, lace, rhinestones and small flowers for a more personalized look.

Fun At Any Age

Keeping up the tradition of seasonal crafting sessions is a great way to bring family together. Adding a fresh slant to old ideas can be a great way to keep family gatherings memorable and fun for all.

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But the cactus is not a plant only for desert conditions. There are many varieties that do well in hot climates with little water but there are also many that have been propagated for indoor use.

Cacti are low maintenance and drought resistant and can make an ideal indoor plant for just about anyone, including those not blessed with a green thumb.

Though they require very little care, there are a few rules to keep in mind to keep your cacti thriving.

1. Cacti are succulents, which mean they are adept at storing water. They are a perfect for those who lead busy lives and a watering schedule is not a priority. Though watering is done less often it is important to water consistently even when they are in their dormant stages. Each species is different but generally every 3 weeks is plenty.

The biggest threat to cactus is overwatering which will often result in disease, fungi gnats, and rot. When watering, the soil should be saturated completely and all excess water removed. Keep an eye on the foliage to check for any soft areas and have a natural fungicide on hand when you suspect pests have taken up residence.

2. Sunlight and plenty of it. Cactus need ample direct and filtered sunlight depending on the variety to thrive. Artificial lighting such as florescent can be used as well where sunlight is in limited supply. You can move your cactus to several sunny locations within your home, however keeping it cool when it is in its dormant stages makes for a sturdier plant.
We had a beautiful Christmas cactus in the living area and boy was it was temperamental. We had to be very careful when we watered or repositioned it because if it was unhappy, it’s foliage would begin a sad display of drooping and withering . We left that old girl alone as much as we could and she provided us with flowers for years.

Depending on the type of cactus it may need to be move to a cooler location with less light to encourage it to “winter”. This will promote flowering when it comes out of its dormant stage.

3. Cacti thrive well in just about any container, but a clay pot is best overall as it encourages quick water evaporation and prevents excessive soil saturation. Whatever container used, it’s important that it have an effective drainage system to prevent rot.
4. Re-potting regularly in larger size pots as they grow keeps roots healthy and aerates the soil. Adding fresh soil regularly helps introduce more nutrients for better growth.
5. Cacti need fertilizer, as do all plants and there are many types to available to choose from. Research your plants to determine the most suitable and when is the best time fertilizer should be applied.

Fortunately for many, cacti are very tolerant to imperfect conditions. As long as you provide the best conditions for the plants you have, the cactus will do the rest. Happy gardening!

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As people begin to appreciate certain styles of art, there becomes a supply and demand situation where prices can indeed reach almost unattainable limits. These types of collectors purchase strictly as a form of investment.

But there are many beginners who pay little attention to the rules of the art world and instead buy what they like. There may be a theme associated with a collection you are drawn to or there may be up and coming artists you admire and want to invest early in their career.

Whatever the case, there are a few tips to pay attention to regardless of your experience as you begin to add to your own collection.

Where To Start

1. Do your research. If you are interested in an artist or a specific piece to add to your collection make sure you have checked out the galleries in your area before settling on your next purchase. Most galleries will have additional information available on the pieces you are considering.
2. Visit the museums in your area and get on their mailing lists to ensure you will be invited to any new openings or special events. Although you cannot purchase from a museum, you can find invaluable information in the featured publications.
3. Don’t buy it if you don’t like it. The idea of collecting is that you enjoy the pieces you purchase and wish to display them proudly.
4. Check out the non-profit art centers in your area as well as any artisan fairs that may be scheduled throughout your city. There is often art for sale at these events as well as artists and experts on hand to help guide you in your own collection.
5. Go to your local library for books and magazines on art collecting. They will have a wealth of knowledge on collecting and offer tips to help you understand what to look for. They will also and suggest areas you may have over looked when searching for specific pieces.
It’s funny what some people think is artistically amazing. We have a couple of wedding gifts that could be antiques now…if I ever wanted to pull them out of the attic to display.
6. Find fellow art collector by attending similar events. Exchanging opinions and ideas can be very rewarding in new friendships and in networking for new pieces for your collections.
7. Go online. There is a mountain of information on the internet that can help you narrow down your preferences and build your knowlege base in any aspect of the art world.

The Choice is Yours

The sky is the limit when it comes to collecting and the value of art is unique to each individual. Someone’s masterpiece may be an acquired taste and the more you learn about your personal preferences, the more extensive your collection can become.

It’s all a matter of personal style.

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If an RV is something you are considering as an alternative to flying for your next vacation, there are several pros and cons to think about while you are in the planning stages.

The price comparables between hotel and meal expenses verses gas and rental fees may not be as far apart as you may have thought but there are factors to examine while making your choice.

Pros

1. Bathroom facilities. Having easy access to important facilities such as bathrooms and all it’s amenities can ensure an enjoyable road trip no matter how long the drive.
2. Storage. Once packed, there is no need to wrestle with the search for clothing, extra blankets or anything else that may be required on a trip. For young families, board game, books and other activities can be pulled out as needed to keep young ones amused if the weather becomes an issue.
3. Meals and lodgings. With recreational vehicles, part of the vacation includes camping at night and new destinations every day. By having an onsite kitchen, meals can be prepared at a fraction of the cost compared to restaurant prices.
4. Time. By using an RV, you are not structured by flight plans and existing timetables. You can plan your driving through less busy freeway times and throughout the night for quiet and convenience.

Cons

1. Size. Depending on the size of your RV space may be a problem if there are many in your family. Hotels are roomier and generally have more comfortable accommodations.
The good part of owning your own RV is that you have room for extra company for those extended stays. The bad part is that sometimes your company doesn’t seem to want to go home.
2. Dependability. There is always a possibility of a breakdown so be sure to inquire what to do and who to call in the event this happens. There could be extra costs and delays should you run into this problem.
3. Fuel. There is no doubt about it fuel for an RV will be the highest cost of your vacation by far. Depending on the age, make and size of the vehicle, gas consumption will be a primary concern throughout your trip.
4. Drivers. Unless there are other trained drivers in your family, you may be relegated to the position of the sole driver.

Recreational Vehicles have their benefits and their drawbacks at the same time. By doing your research and cost comparisons with the pros and cons listed, you may be able to see where renting and RV may be the best way to go on your next vacation

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By extending our living spaces, we can provide an abundance of nature, wonderful sunshine, and cool breezes to keep our summers longer and our lives happier. Decks are considered a good investment when it comes to home improvements and will generally raise your homes overall value.

Depending on the size and complexity, building your deck can be contracted out to a professional or it can also be a do it yourself project. Most home improvements stores offer seminars for deck building and there are plenty of great online tutorials that provide step by step instructions as well.

If you do plan to tackle it on your own you must have a good idea of what your needs are and a basic plan before you head out to the lumber store. Here are few key points to take into considerations while you are planning your deck.

The Plan

Location

This may be an easy decision but you must keep in mind the access from your home and from the outdoor spaces. Access to windows, basements, downspouts, and dryer vents need to be considered as well. If you live where there is snowfall, you need to think about the elevation of the deck from the threshold of the door. Decks should be built lower to avoid any potential water problems.

Size

What will be the main purpose for the deck? Will it be used as an outdoor kitchen and dining area with tables and chairs? Will there be levels and steps needed for access to pools or gardens? If the deck is a second story deck, a midway landing area should be added to prevent injuries.

Privacy

Will your deck be visible to the neighbors or the main street? Walls can be constructed with lattice work to enhance the look of your deck while maintaining your privacy. There are also outdoor blinds that can be used as walls if you prefer a lighter approach.

Shade

Depending on the location of your deck and the how the sun travels, an awning may need to be considered to prevent damages from the heat and sun. You can also build a pergola or an arbor for a budget friendly shade alternative. Plants and trailing vines can add beauty to your deck while providing necessary shade.

Railings

In many areas, any deck that is higher than 18″ off the ground requires a railing. Check with your local municipality for the building codes required for railings and the spacing of balusters between each. Better to be sure you have the proper variances in place to avoid a removal order from the city or any legal issues should an accidental injury occur.

Materials

Do you want cedar, redwood or pressure treated wood? Do you want paint or stain? There are now vinyl and PVC alternatives to wood available today. They initially cost more than wood but their maintenance free aspects are worth investigating.

The End Result

Building a deck can be a great way to beautify your home and enhance its overall value. Having a deck can also provide a sense of relaxation and a get-a-way experience without having to travel to reap the rewards.

By taking the time to make a plan of what your family needs, you can save money by building your deck yourself or having a professional do it for you. Either way, it will be money well spent.

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There are hundreds of types of pottery which incorporate the decorating styles of specific countries each with its own stamp of ethnic flare.

With today’s growth of shops that allow consumers to throw pottery or decorate and bake their own pieces has become an industry in itself and has allowed many non artists to enjoy this old and beautiful craft for their own pleasure.

Time Does Matter

There are many types of classes’ available for every level of skill. If you wish to learn how to throw pottery with the use of potter’s wheel and clay, you will need more in-depth training where you will learn specific techniques to increase your skills. This can take several weeks to complete a finished piece however throwing pottery is a hands on approach that can be immensely satisfying.

You can also find shops where the pottery or ceramic has been previously molded and ready for you to decorate as you choose. This is called green-ware and you can purchase pieces for decorating with paint and glazes for various finishes. This is an easier format with less time required and typically one or two kiln firings to complete a finished product.

As a Gift

You can enjoy making pieces of art for yourself but there is also the opportunity to make unique pieces as gifts for friends and family. By knowing who you are making the pottery for, you are tailoring your gift specifically for the recipient in a one of a kind exclusive gift.

There are many different styles and designs from which to choose. If you have a friend you share a hobby with, a piece designed around that theme is a sure winner. If your family member is an animal lover, decorate your piece with that in mind . A golfer, a gardener, or even a teacher, you can design and paint accordingly for a one of a kind piece making your gift even more personal.

Then there are the holiday decorations that become well loved tradition in many families. Most pottery and ceramic shops have a variety of green-ware to choose from for painting any holiday themed item.

From ceramic Christmas trees and platters to earthenware mugs each decorated personally, the possibilities are endless. Just remember to follow the care instructions when using hand made items and include a set of care instructions when giving as a gift.

Whether you are learning to throw pottery or painting green-ware, have fun with it and develop a style all your own. As you progress, catalog your progress with pictures in an album to see how you have progressed. Look for new opportunities to expand your skills through classes or books.

Before long, you may have requests for your special pieces.

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While some are searching for details about their ancestors and how they came to be, some are happy to find the origins of their surname, or their family coat of arms.

Though searching for family roots can be a bit of a challenge, the internet is a great platform for starting your research. With online programs and subscriptions for ancestry registries, you can be sure to find a good portion of your family’s history and chances are high you may meet up with others that are searching within the same family tree.

By sharing information, you are adding to the historical data from your perspective and in turn gaining information from people you may never have known existed.

A Sense of Family

Taking on a family tree project is exciting and can bring together a sense of fun in the exploration of your origins. It can be a way for family members to connect in a deeper way and bring a richer meanings of family to all who participate.

By tracing your family’s roots, you will gain a better understanding of where you actually came from and the lives of your descendants. It can provide you with a personal snapshot of historical events paralleling natural calamities and an understanding of the hardships endured. Families relocating in tough economic times and those displaced by wars, all invaluable pieces of information.

How to Search

Where you begin depends on what information you already have available.

• Your family records are the best place to start your search along with the family bible. There are often notations that be be verified through court house records.
• Obituary notices provide a great deal of additional information which may include relatives you were not aware of.
• The city or town libraries can also provide relevant historical data if you have a general idea of a time line.
• Census records provide information on living and deceased relatives where you can trace the family tree back through existing records.
• Online message boards forums and are filled with tidbits of information and mailing lists based on your name. Most are free but require you to sign up before you can access information.

Talk to Your Elders

Of course the best way to find out about family is to talk with your relatives while you have the chance. Note everything they can remember and verify as you go. Building layers of information gleaned from those around you by visiting with them and asking questions.

Write letters to those who do not live close and invite them to add what they can to the project. Most will be happy to regal you with tales of their family as they remember when.

Each step in the family research can lead you to new discoveries but be cautious. Cross verification is vital as not all information is correct. Human errors in transcription are bound to appear.

There are many pieces to the puzzle when it comes to genealogy and it is a fascinating hobby that can be immensely rewarding.

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Knowing that this tree could live for years with the proper care, I began my research and found that although some Bonsai plants needed a lot of pampering, most varieties were quite easy to grow. Though ideally an indoor plant,they can also be maintained outdoors on a patio or in your garden depending on your climate.

Bonsai plants are in reality actual trees that emerged as an art form in Japan and China in the 7th century. Grown slowly and meticulously pruned, they are often prized for their serene beauty and can fetch a hefty price depending on the age of the tree.

Which Plant Is Best

A Bonsai can be sculpted from almost any plant and it becomes a question of which one you prefer. There are different styles in how you prune such as the cascade, raft, semi-cascade, and forest.

Then there is the choice of whether you want a tropical or a semi tropical Bonsai. Pine and Juniper seem to be the best suited for the beginner as they tend to be quite tolerate of soil conditions and temperature however just about any plant is a good candidate for becoming a Bonsai.

Here are a few guides lines that will help in choosing and maintaining the right Bonsai for you.

• Choose the type you find is the most appropriate for your home. Tropical Bonsai require more constant temperatures lighting and humidity and semi-tropical’s can tolerate a more flexible climate.
• Choose an already established plant as your first attempt. Once you master the techniques of shaping and maintaining your plant, you can then begin the more challenging attempt from seedlings.
• Use a shallow container for your Bonsai. The rule of thumb is the container must be 2/3 the height of the tree and the depth 1 and 1/2 the inch of the trunks diameter. Be sure you are using the best soil for your plant and be vigilant and proactive with any type of pest infestation.
• Place your Bonsai in a well-lit area but never in direct sun. If you do not have adequate light then it would be wise to purchase grow lights for your tree and use a timer for best results.
• Different Bonsai have different water requirements so be aware of what your plants needs. Water your plant regularly by watering the soil around the trunk of the tree and if you water the foliage, be sure its early enough in the day for any excess water to evaporate. Always remove any excess water to prevent root rot.
• As with any plant, its good practice to re pot your Bonsai every two to three years giving it new soil and a chance to become more resilient as it grows.

Pruning and Shaping

There are two types of pruning required with Bonsai, root pruning and branch pruning. Pruning allows your Bonsai to be cultivated into many different shapes depending on your desired look.

Root pruning is done during the spring while the branch pruning can be done at any time. Always use the proper tools and keep them sharp for best results.

Angle is important when considering how to shape your plant. Do you want a more formal tree like appearance or informal look where the trunk and its bends and curves can be highlighted?

Bonsai really are a treat to grow. Though they do present a few challenges, they are worth the care involved in their maintenance. Arm yourself with knowledge from a trusted horticulturalist and you can grow your own living art that will keep your green thumb happy for years.

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Having fish is not just about choosing a few colourful fish and adding them into a new aquarium with several shakes of fish food. There are several factors that must be considered such as size and compatibility of the fish and the size of the tank required.

Regardless of whether you choose tropical fish or cold water fish, by learning a few fundamental rules you can enjoy your own tank with minimal maintenance.

The Basics

Here are some of the basics needed for setting up your aquarium. In time you can add to and modify to your collection but for the most part, these will be your staple items.

• Tank – make sure this is the proper size for the fish you plan on keeping
• Filter – there are many variations, but the bottom line is to keep the tank clean and oxygenated
• Plants – help oxygenate the water and provide hiding places for fish
• Gravel – mainly for decoration but some fish like to hide in gravel
• Heater – dependent on the fish you are keeping but an essential part of keeping your fish warm

The Most Important Rule

The most basic rule is not to over feed your fish. Very often novice fish keepers are tempted to continually feed their fish simply because of a lack of better understanding. You must always remember, an aquarium is a closed environment and everything that goes into the water becomes a part of this environment. When excess food breaks down it releases phosphates and this encourages the growth of algae. With excess food come excess waste and inevitably a dirty environment encouraging disease.

A good rule of thumb is to feed your fish only once a day and when feeding them, they should eat everything inside of a few minutes. They will feed at the top and chase after the food, diving down when necessary to get to it. Any excess food will sink to the bottom and by giving your fish a day of rest without feed once a week, it will encourage them to search for hidden food and keep their tank cleaner.

Adding scavenger fish or algae eating fish to your tank help will keep it clean naturally. They are quick to clean up any excess food and keep too much algae from forming.

Providing the Right Environment

All aquariums require some kind of maintenance with the buildup of phosphates, evaporation and water hardness over a period of time. Many fish means more waste matter which in turn means pH levels will continue decreasing. Freshwater aquariums need 25 percent water change at least once a month depending on how heavily stocked it is and how clear you prefer your tank.

Maintaining the temperature that is best for the fish is very important. Tropical fish do best in temperatures of approximately 25 degrees centigrade, while cold water fish do well in lower temperatures. Aquarium temperature should always remain constant, abrupt changes will result in a shock to the fish, which could cause death. The safest thing to do is to attach a thermometer to the tank and monitor it regularly.

Your fish need light and typically it comes from natural light and artificial light. The plants in the aquarium need light for their growth and the fish need light for feeding. The optimum light requirement for your aquarium is approximately 12 hours a day. Never put your tank in an area where there is direct sunlight as this will increase algae formation and also will heat the water to an unhealthy temperature.

Another important factor to be considered in aquarium maintenance is the pH levels of the water. The pH levels that are easily tolerated range between 6.6 up to 7.4 with the optimum being a pH of 7. Check with an aquarium specialist if you need to modify your levels for additional fish. They can give you advice on what works and what doesn’t.

Adding vegetation and other ornamental rocks will not only give your tank visual interest but it provides your fish with places to hide. It is important to understand the kind of natural environment your fish require. Visit your local aquarium shop to find the best plants and accessories for the type of fish you have.

As with any kind of pet, knowing how to keep them, and making every effort to provide the best environment can only mean healthy, happy fish that will be with you for a long time.

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With more bike lanes on city streets, people are choosing to keep fit and help the environment by keeping their car at home and using good old pedal power to get where they need to go.

Depending on whether you choose your bike for rough terrain or city use its important to choose the right bike that will fit your needs as well as your lifestyle.

If you are thinking about purchasing a new bike, take some time to consider a few important details before you head out to the store.

What Are Your Needs

Style – There are many styles to take into consideration but the basics remain the same. If you will be riding in the city then a bike tailored to a more urban lifestyle would be most appropriate. These bikes include lighter aluminum frames and thinner wheels for a smoother ride.

If you will be using your bike for trail riding then a mountain bike would be your best bet. These come in lighter frames for portaging, but also more durable frames such as carbon fiber or titanium for more intense cylcing. Mountain bikes have a wider wheel base and thicker tires for better traction on rough terrain.

Size – Getting the right size of bike for your body is crucial to riding in comfort and avoiding injury. If possible get help from a professional when choosing the proper size. You should be able to mount the bike without difficulty while you are a the standing position. Your leg should be fully extended while on the pedal at its lowest point with your knee slightly bent and the seat should be one to two inches from your body. The handle bars should be roughly the same width as your shoulder thought this is more of an issue of personal comfort than style.

Cost – Many people make the mistake of buying the least expensive bike they can find in a discount store and this is OK for an infrequent rider. But if you plan on incorporating biking for more than a couple of hours on a weekend, you will need to spend the money on the best quality bike you can find in your price range. Comfort is key here and its worth your time and your money to educate yourself on what fits your body best.

Safety Always Comes First

Depending on where you live, bike helmets may be mandatory and frankly, just make good sense. The risk of severe head injury from a bike accident is minimized significantly by wearing a helmet. They come in every colour and in just about any size and are worth the investment. Remember to replace them when needed as they can become less effective after everyday wear and tear.

Also consider reflective gear. Make sure all sources of reflective lights, stickers or paint are in good repair at all times and if you ride after dusk, then reflective clothing is a must. Being seen by motorists is your top priority and there is never too much safety gear when it comes to biking at night.

Most accessories are readily available and can be purchased at any hardware store or bike shop. You can also add water bottle holders and storage bags to tailor your bike to your lifestyle.

Remember, riding a bike should be enjoyable. If you choose the wrong bike, then you will likely end up with a bike accumulating dust in the garage that will eventually make it’s way as an item for sale in your next garage sale.

Take the time to make the right decisions and enjoy the benefits of good health as well as helping the environment and saving a few dollars by leaving your car at home.

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