Christmas bouquets light up a room

image credit: photo SUBMITTED

According to research, fresh flowers lift everyones spirits and are the gift that makes people the happiest, especially so during these cool, dark days.

Fresh flowers add so much colour to the festive season and they do not have to cost a great deal. Garden centres, florists and some larger stores all have super selections at this time of year. Although prices will vary, always buy quality and look for both fragrance and varieties that last.

With proper care, their lifespan can be almost doubled. Cleanliness is the single most important factor in making fresh flowers last. Dirty vases are no place for fresh flowers. Not only should they be clean but a few drops of bleach should also be added to the water to kill any bacteria that can reduce the capillary action of water flowing up the stems. The water should be warm and the addition of a packet of floral preservative will greatly extend the lifespan of your cut flowers. Curiously, Sprite soft drink is one of the best floral preservatives.

It is always a good idea to re-cut the stems on all fresh flowers the moment you receive them but it is very important for you to make that cut while the end of the stem is held underwater. Special machines are available to florists for doing just that. Another re-cut should be done in about a week to keep that water flowing. Research has also proven that exposure to constant, rather than fluctuating temperatures, increases the lifespan of flowers. In other words, keep them at a reasonably cool room temperature rather than in a hot sunroom by day and in the cold at night.

With so many great local growers in our region, the selection of fresh cut flowers is truly amazing. Fresh cinnamon-scented carnations and long-lasting chrysanthemums are very traditional but I would suggest trying a few different flowers that have great keeping qualities as well. Locally grown anthuriums are unique and look stunning when combined with Christmas greens and berries. They are also very reasonably priced, as are cymbidium orchid stems, another long-lasting flower. Colourful, exotic alstromerias fit in nicely with any bouquet and will go the distance even with mums. If you are really tropical minded, South African proteas last and last.

Spring flowers are now here and ready to bring a breath of fresh colour to brighten our winter spirits. Tulips, pussy willows and iris push aside those winter blues.

Some of the most fragrant flowers are Oriental lilies, Polianthes tuberosa and freesias. Just a few stems are sometimes enough to fill your whole room with a delightful perfume.

To accompany these flowers, I suggest you use some traditional Christmas greens. Noble and silver fir boughs are very dark green, fragrant and classy looking. They are also flat and easy to work with. The soft, wispy branches of white pine are certainly another favourite, both for perfume and longevity.

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IN THE GARDEN: Christmas time is a time for a little colour

Texas Rooms And Windows is YOUR Best Choice for Custom, Room Addition Quality Sunrooms. AND...Texas' ONLY Source of Composite Patio Rooms & Enclosures!

We also Offer Folding Wall Systems, Luxury Patios & Shade Covers. 3 Season Screen & Glass Patio Rooms & Pool Enclosures. Custom Room Designs, 3D Rendered Drawings. We let you see YOUR Sunroom Design on YOUR home before we start your job!

At Texas Rooms And Windows, our list of products and services is growing all the time.

Do you have a special project? Please, let us know.

Chances are, we can accommodate your needs.

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Sunroom Secrets... ... and everything else you need to know! Soon we''ll be updating our remodeling blog with weekly and monthly specials, and information about sunrooms, additions, conservatories, windows and all types of home and garden related tips and advice for homeowners. Come by and let us know what you think! You can also ask any type of question and will post answers to help other homeowners in the future.Thanks for stopping by... Click the link below to go see: Sunroom Secrets... ... and everything else you need to know!

NEW!- We have added new blog sites that we will be updating monthly with Remodeling Ideas and helpful links for Exterior Remodeling specific projects such as Siding, Roofing, Windows and Doors, Coatings, paints and more... Check out our new Exterior Remodeling and Home Improvement blog!

We have most recently added and will be working on the latest blog that will deal with all things GREEN and Energy Efficient. We are constantly testing, using and trying all types of energy efficient products and technologies, so we are going to share them with you in our Green Remodeling Ideas blog. We will give you links to suppliers of energy efficient products, other sites to help you learn more and insider information about the products we have used along with the results of our testing.

PLEASE Don't forget to subscribe to our blogs so you will know when we post new and helpful information. And...Don't forget to let us know about any type opf remodeling, home improvements or energy saving upgrades you have tested your self. We always love to hear from you!

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Sunroom, Window, Patio, Additions & Remodeling Information ...

Dec. 16, 2014 11:35 a.m.

Dear friends,

When Kirk, my husband of almost 43 years, was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer in January 2012, we were stunned. Kirk hadnt been in the hospital since he was a teenager and when we met the surgeon that evening in the emergency room, he told us he was afraid, since Kirk had been so healthy and had annual physicals, he was going to find cancer. For 15 months, we rode a mixture of tidal waves and calm watersbut nothing was more comforting than the compassionate care we experienced, at home, with Hospice of the Red River Valley.

Because of hospice care, Kirk spent nine weeks at homewhere he desperately wanted to beuntil he passed. Hospice provided everything we needed for his medical needs, physical equipment and anticipated his needs of care.

Theres something therapeutic about being at home. Kirk felt comfortable in his familiar surroundings. His diagnosis didnt stop him from living strong, just like the LIVESTRONG yellow bracelets each member of our family wore and still wear.

Although he was bedridden in the hospital and too weak to walk, Kirk rebounded at home. He regained some strength and advanced from riding in the wheelchair provided by hospice, to shuffling around with a walker to and from our sunroom to read the paper every morning. We watched him show interest in daily happenings, watch some of his favorite TV shows and visit with family and friends. At times we could ride a wave of calm.

Our family time had always been important in Kirks life, and it became even more special in those weeks. Kirk was able to laugh and cry with us, reminisce through conversations and old photos, smile and say his goodbyes, and others could say their goodbyes to him.

Kirk passed away peacefully in our home on May 4, 2013. Even now, I ask why but also know even though we did not get the hoped for miracle of remission or a cure, we did get the gift of life. We took short trips by car, plane and even on his Harley motorcycle, and we celebrated Kirks 65th birthday. But most of all, we were able to share our love and make more memories of our time with Kirk.

Looking back, I cant imagine not having the support of Hospice, and I wouldnt ever change our decision to have them in our lives during those nine weeks. In addition to the medical, emotional and spiritual care Kirk received, Hospice of the Red River Valley helped prepare me and my family. I didnt know the stages of end-of-life and didnt realize everything Hospice could do for our family. Hospice of the Red River Valley made the journey more gentle.

Kirk always had a spirit of giving back, and he led a rich life filled with volunteerism and generosity. He had decided which charities would receive our financial gifts, and now its my turn. Hospice gave Kirk and our family nine weeks of time and comfort. Please join me and my family in giving a gift to Hospice of the Red River Valley.

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Why We Give: Kirk & Stephanies Story

Home Additions Before and After - Albany, NY
Are you thinking about adding a sunroom onto your Albany, New York home? Watch this time lapse video and see the step by step transformation of adding a sunroom addition onto your home. Want...

By: PatioEnclosures

Excerpt from:
Home Additions Before and After - Albany, NY - Video

BUILDING PERMITS

PMT2014-03696 1966 13th St.; $68,180.92; Tebo/Pearl LLC; Faurot Construction Inc.; This is a tenant finish of 1,617.77 square feet consisting of associated MEPs. the tenant address is known as 1300 Pearl Street (Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory)

PMT2014-04203 2156 Tamarack Ave.; $800,000; Tracey and Dennis Beck; Concept 30 LLC; Construction of new 3,979-square-foot, two-story single-family dwelling. Includes 869-square-foot attached garage, 289-square-foot porch, and all associated MEPs. Note that per annexation agreement, zoned Residential Estate.

PMT2014-04969 6180 Spine Road; $588,000; Qualcomm Inc.; Howell Construction; Tenant remodel to Qualcomm facility. Scope includes addition of rooftop cooling equipment for computer equipment room, structural work for roof support and screening walls for equipment.

PMT2014-04997 1609 Fourth St.; $23,935; Michael Hay and Karessa Cain; New Beginning Builders LLC; Building permit application to remodel (370.5 square feet total) existing conditioned sunroom into a playroom. Scope of work includes structural improvements and window replacement and reconfiguration. Additional work includes associated mechanical duct extension and reconfiguration work of existing electrical layout.

PMT2014-05017 1310 College Ave.; $90,000; C. Keneth; Interior, non-structural tenant remodel to existing professional office space. Total of 530 square feet. Scope includes reconfiguration of interior space to create two new offices. Includes associated plumbing and electrical work.

PMT2014-05197 3285 Ouray St.; $48,773.07; Pacheco Revocable; First-time basement finish in existing duplex. Frame in new bedroom, bathroom, closet, media room, and work room and utility room. Includes new rough-in for utility sink. Relocation of plumbing rough-in in new bathroom for shower. Includes all associated MEPs.

PMT2014-05204 1933 Pearl St., No. 7; $69,750; Robert Brown; Interior, non-structural remodel to existing single-family dwelling (225 square feet). Scope of work includes kitchen and bathroom remodel, with a net plumbing fixture count addition of one shower stall. Includes installation of three skylights, two "sun tunnels", and a reconfiguration of kitchen and bathroom walls. MEPs included.

PMT2014-05208 2220 Hillsdale Circle; $75,000; David and Margaret Selby; Interior, non-structural remodel to existing single-family dwelling. Scope of work includes reconfiguration of main level - conversion of existing bedroom into closet(s) for master bedroom, new master bath, and associated demo work. MEPs included.

PMT2014-05212 3105 Bell Drive; $11,000; Ann Blonston and David Glasser; Whitestone Construction Services; Structural work associated with rear-yard deck of townhouse. Please refer to attached drawings.

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Boulder building permits: Dec. 1, 2014

As travelers, it's sort of par for the course to have a running knowledge of favorite places to stay when traveling abroad. Whether it's a five-star resort on a secluded island, or a cozy bed and breakfast overlooking a stunning mountain range, everyone has a favorite place to call a home away from home.

From the farthest reaches of the world to a city that may just be in your very own backyard, see which hotels and resorts made the top 100 list.

This five-camp preserve in a riverine forest offers "the vacation of a lifetimeeverything is fabulous." In a perfect-scoring location on the Sand River, accommodations include Pioneer Camp, with three private suites decorated in Ralph Lauren style, and Varty Camp, where chalets in earth tones have private pools. Enjoy freshly baked muffins on the deck at sunrise while watching the elephants below"an absolutely incredible experience." Dinners at the boma are served by candlelight on white linen. "The safaris are beyond fantastic. The Big Five are literally within reach!"

The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch

The Lodge in Saratoga, Wyoming is our readers' favorite U.S. resort, bringing an extra dose of luxury to the rugged West. Outdoor lovers enjoy fly fishing, hiking, and horseback riding at Brush Creek Ranch while also indulging in the luxuries of their spa services. The lodge serves up family-style dinners, gourmet meals, and barbecue to visitors as they enjoy beautiful Rocky Mountain views.

This new 526-room seaside resort in the southeastern tourist enclave of Nusa Dua is one of readers' top resorts in Asia. The ocean is just steps away, though you may be inclined to linger at the one of Mulia's pools with a cocktail. With a spa, fitness center, and play area for kids, the resort offers a comfortable stay for singles, couples, and families alike.

A former game farm adjacent to Kruger National Park, this "truly amazing" two-lodge camp and private villa is surrounded by groves of acacia, thornveld, and marula trees on the Sand River. "It's spectacular through and through." Ebony Lodge celebrates Africa with stone, thatch, and splashes of tribal colors, while contemporary Boulders Lodge has earth tones, glass walls, and private pool decks. South African wines complement dishes such as chermoula-marinated tiger prawns. In addition to game drives, guided safari walks are available upon request. "The game spotting is incredibleanimals are everywhere you look."

At this newcomer looking onto the Bitterroot Mountains, rooms are spread across 23 log cabins that ooze rusticity via exposed log walls and slate bathrooms. "Our room had a view of the woods, very private and peaceful" with "a hot tub on the deck." The restaurant pairs cathedral ceilings with "superb, world-class" cuisine ranging from traditional French to Southwestern, and signature items like venison carpaccio with marinated plums. "There were fresh cookies every day when returning from activities" such as spotting mountain lions, moose, and eagles in the wilderness.

This new boutique hotel is a Costa Rican dream for anyone looking for a secluded vacation spot. Nayara Springs is perched at the top of a rainforest, surrounded by tropical plants and creeks with gorgeous views of Arenal Volcano. Sixteen private villas include plunge pools, gardens, and open-air showers. Located 2 hours from San Jose, this adults-only hotel gets high scores for service, and the spa has indulgent treatments with volcanic mud and chocolate clay.

American billionaire Paul Tudor Jones II has established three splendid lodgingsSasakwa, Sabora, and Faru Faruwithin his 340,000-acre tract adjoining Serengeti National Park. Sasakwa Lodge, the most sumptuous, comprises nine suites styled as colonial manor houses, with fireplaces, claw-foot tubs, a wraparound veranda, a plunge pool, and Wi-Fi. Between game drives, guests can smoke complimentary cigars at the main lodge's bar, take tea in the garden sunroom, shoot billiards on a 19th-century table, and make free satellite phone calls; other diversions include an archery range and a stable of horses for gallops alongside the herds. On an open plain, Sabora has nine tents furnished with antiques from an English lord's East African campaign and two 1930s Chevy touring cars. Faru Faru's eight tents sit in wooded country by the Grumeti River.

Original post:
World's top resorts

As travelers, it's sort of par for the course to have a running knowledge of favorite places to stay when traveling abroad. Whether it's a five-star resort on a secluded island, or a cozy bed and breakfast overlooking a stunning mountain range, everyone has a favorite place to call a home away from home.

From the farthest reaches of the world to a city that may just be in your very own backyard, see which hotels and resorts made the top 100 list.

This five-camp preserve in a riverine forest offers "the vacation of a lifetimeeverything is fabulous." In a perfect-scoring location on the Sand River, accommodations include Pioneer Camp, with three private suites decorated in Ralph Lauren style, and Varty Camp, where chalets in earth tones have private pools. Enjoy freshly baked muffins on the deck at sunrise while watching the elephants below"an absolutely incredible experience." Dinners at the boma are served by candlelight on white linen. "The safaris are beyond fantastic. The Big Five are literally within reach!"

The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch

The Lodge in Saratoga, Wyoming is our readers' favorite U.S. resort, bringing an extra dose of luxury to the rugged West. Outdoor lovers enjoy fly fishing, hiking, and horseback riding at Brush Creek Ranch while also indulging in the luxuries of their spa services. The lodge serves up family-style dinners, gourmet meals, and barbecue to visitors as they enjoy beautiful Rocky Mountain views.

This new 526-room seaside resort in the southeastern tourist enclave of Nusa Dua is one of readers' top resorts in Asia. The ocean is just steps away, though you may be inclined to linger at the one of Mulia's pools with a cocktail. With a spa, fitness center, and play area for kids, the resort offers a comfortable stay for singles, couples, and families alike.

A former game farm adjacent to Kruger National Park, this "truly amazing" two-lodge camp and private villa is surrounded by groves of acacia, thornveld, and marula trees on the Sand River. "It's spectacular through and through." Ebony Lodge celebrates Africa with stone, thatch, and splashes of tribal colors, while contemporary Boulders Lodge has earth tones, glass walls, and private pool decks. South African wines complement dishes such as chermoula-marinated tiger prawns. In addition to game drives, guided safari walks are available upon request. "The game spotting is incredibleanimals are everywhere you look."

At this newcomer looking onto the Bitterroot Mountains, rooms are spread across 23 log cabins that ooze rusticity via exposed log walls and slate bathrooms. "Our room had a view of the woods, very private and peaceful" with "a hot tub on the deck." The restaurant pairs cathedral ceilings with "superb, world-class" cuisine ranging from traditional French to Southwestern, and signature items like venison carpaccio with marinated plums. "There were fresh cookies every day when returning from activities" such as spotting mountain lions, moose, and eagles in the wilderness.

This new boutique hotel is a Costa Rican dream for anyone looking for a secluded vacation spot. Nayara Springs is perched at the top of a rainforest, surrounded by tropical plants and creeks with gorgeous views of Arenal Volcano. Sixteen private villas include plunge pools, gardens, and open-air showers. Located 2 hours from San Jose, this adults-only hotel gets high scores for service, and the spa has indulgent treatments with volcanic mud and chocolate clay.

American billionaire Paul Tudor Jones II has established three splendid lodgingsSasakwa, Sabora, and Faru Faruwithin his 340,000-acre tract adjoining Serengeti National Park. Sasakwa Lodge, the most sumptuous, comprises nine suites styled as colonial manor houses, with fireplaces, claw-foot tubs, a wraparound veranda, a plunge pool, and Wi-Fi. Between game drives, guests can smoke complimentary cigars at the main lodge's bar, take tea in the garden sunroom, shoot billiards on a 19th-century table, and make free satellite phone calls; other diversions include an archery range and a stable of horses for gallops alongside the herds. On an open plain, Sabora has nine tents furnished with antiques from an English lord's East African campaign and two 1930s Chevy touring cars. Faru Faru's eight tents sit in wooded country by the Grumeti River.

See original here:
World's top hotels, resorts

$359,000 - 50 BURTON DR, Howell, NJ 07731
http://50burtondr.agentmarketing.com?rs=youtube For more info and pics, Text "3330976" to 79564 Detached, SplitLevel, Custom - Howell, NJ A showplace! Beauti...

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$359,000 - 50 BURTON DR, Howell, NJ 07731 - Video

Sunroom Addition Vancouver 2014 - Image to Reality
Image to Reality Watch this! Progress report walkthrough of a featured sunroom addition project in Vancouver BC. High Quality 1080p HD!!! Vancouver home renovations, Renovation contractors...

By: Image to Reality Contracting Ltd.

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Sunroom Addition Vancouver 2014 - Image to Reality - Video

Sunroom Prices

What is the cost of a sunroom? Why a sunroom in Southern California? Whats unique about a sunroom? How long does a sunroom take to install? How is a sunroom built? What about the hassle of construction? Will it add value to my house? Will my sunroom get too hot or too cold?

A Four Seasons sunroom often requires less investment than a conventionally constructed room addition. It is a cost-effective solution to creating more living space. Because Four Seasons is the worlds largest manufacturer of sunrooms, we can extend our volume discounts to you.Top

A Four Seasons sunroom is the ideal way to enjoy the Southern California sunshine from the comfort of your home. Our unique CONSERVAGLASS PLUS technology is designed to ensure the interior of your sunroom remains cooler in the summer and warm in the winter, providing outdoor livingindoors. You can enjoy the California climate day and night, all year long.Top

A Four Seasons sunroom is unlike any other room in your home. The combination of natural light and comfort ensures that a sunroom is the most used room in your home. No other sunroom manufacturer surpasses the technology and design choices that Four Seasons sunrooms offers.Top

From the time we begin installation, most projects take less than two weeks to complete once schedules are determined and plans are approved.Top

Once the design of your project is completed, your order is placed. The factory prepares materials specifically for your project while site preparation takes place at your home. Materials are then delivered and installation of your sunroom is completed quickly and efficiently.Top

Forget the idea of traditional construction. Four Seasons sunrooms are manufactured to your individual specifications and delivered to your home. Installation causes minimal disruption (debris, dust, etc.), and wont require substantial modifications to your home.Top

A recent survey by the National Association of Remodelers reports that a sunroom retains 92% of its value. In comparison, a swimming pool maintains only 30%, and a family room addition maintains 70% of their value. Also, a Four Seasons sunroom comes with a lifetime warranty that is fully transferable.Top

CONSERVAGLASS PLUS has an exclusive multi-coating, which contains nine different microscopic metals and compounds. In the summer, this allows beneficial natural light to flow into your sunroom, while reducing the entry of harmful ultra violet rays. In the winter, argon gas sealed within the dual paned glass prevents heat loss, creating a comfortable, energy-efficient environment.Top

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Sunroom Prices - Sunroom FAQ, Sunroom Addition Cost ...