Pimping your home? Start with your PC

(NC)-Home renovation shows are a regular feature on the airwaves, filling the insatiable demand among homeowners to make their living space unique. For most people that means a mix of colours, new furniture and carefully chosen artwork.

But as Canadians begin to think about their next home renovation, they're starting to include their home computer in their design plans. Few know this better than Murat Erbatur, president of MCM Integrated Technologies. MCM specializes in tricking out homes with the concept of "intelligent living" - a world in which the entire home is run by a PC.

"Most people use their PC to send email or surf the Web. I have a different vision - in my world, the PC is like a butler, personal assistant and security guard all in one," says Erbatur.

Most PCs today come standard with a media centre feature, built right in. A new HP machine, for example, will come loaded with the Microsoft Windows Vista operating system, which turns the computer into a powerful, all-in-one entertainment device, allowing people to access their favourite music, photos, TV, movies and online media from the comfort of their couch. But that's just the beginning. Companies like MCM can also extend the features of Windows Vista beyond just entertainment. By further employing intelligent living, all lights, heating and cooling systems and home security technology can be run through a PC and maintained over the Internet or via a mobile device.

And it's not just limited to the indoors. Users can tune garage door openers to be controlled through the computer, as can sprinkler systems and other electrical systems. There's no more worrying about whether or not you turned off the stove - your PC can help warn you when an appliance has been left on and fix it from any location.

The bottom line, according to Erbatur, is that the home of the future can be had today. "People may not know the potential power of their PC. By taking advantage of our intelligent living vision, people can truly make their home a more unique and enjoyable place to live - one that's sure to wow everyone," he adds.

Decorating tips for your laundry room

(NC)-Traditionally tucked away in a dingy basement corner or stored in a hallway closet, laundry rooms are now finally getting the respect they deserve. And when you consider the amount of time and energy spent in the laundry room it's no wonder Canadians are finally tackling the laundry room to create inviting and well-designed spaces.

Keep the following tips in mind when remodelling a laundry room:

Location is Key: Many home owners are taking the laundry room out of basement and putting it in the middle of all the action - the second floor. Considering that most of the items being laundered will eventually be stored in bedroom closets and wardrobes, a second floor laundry room is convenient and practical. If you're concerned about laundry machine noise and vibration, consider purchasing a washer and dryer designed for second-floor laundry rooms such as Samsung's Platinum laundry line that features its exclusive vibration reduction technology.

It's Not Just About Laundry: Don't let the name fool you, today's laundry rooms are used more than just for laundry. Often doing double duty as a hobby or sewing room, homeowners are thinking about creating a laundry room that doubles as multifunctional work areas. When designing the space, consider how the room will be utilized and what solutions you need to keep the space clutter-free and organized.

Find Zen in Tight Quarters: Let's face it, between the washer and dryer, the hamper, and ironing board, space is limited. While most of us don't have spacious living room-sized laundry rooms, making use of vertical space is vital for taming laundry room chaos. Invest in sturdy shelving units or cabinets to store laundry room essentials such as fabric softener, detergent and bleach.

Laundry Room Star: Last but not least, an instant way to update the look of a tired laundry room is to upgrade the appliances. Trade in your old, white top-loading washer and dryer for an energy efficient front-loading pair in the colour of your choice. Appearance aside, look for a laundry pair with higher drum capacities so you can do more laundry in less time.

More information on this topic is available online at www.samsung.ca.

Avoid becoming landlocked this summer

(NC)-Canada boasts some of the world's most beautiful coastlines, lakes, rivers and waterways. Here are a few of the most popular destinations:

* Historic Coastal Nova Scotia
* Howe Sound - British Columbia
* Lake Erie and Area - Ontario
* Îles-de-la-Madeleine - Québec
* Desolation Sound - British Columbia
* Morson - Mid Canada
* Mighty Fraser Country - British Columbia
* Muskoka and the Haliburton Highlands - Ontario
* Charlevoix - Québec
* Northumberland Strait - Maritimes
* Nestor Falls - Mid Canada
* Trent-Severn Waterway - Ontario

You can check out www.DiscoverBoating.ca to research these popular boating locations and search the online directory to find a body of water, marina or ramp location that's close to you.

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* Kitchen Renovations

* Growing a Sustainable Garden

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Give your windows a summer check-up

(NC)-Keeping your home's windows in shape can close the door on high energy bills while allowing fresh air to circulate and reduce indoor air pollutants. Some simple tips can keep your windows working for you, not against you:

. Sticking windows. If a window is stuck, try pushing around the edges of the sash frame to loosen it before opening. Lubricating the channels with paraffin may help make them move more easily in the future. In casement windows, the hardware could be corroded, and may need to be removed for cleaning.

. Painting. If windows are closed too soon after painting they become bonded to the frame. A slim knife inserted through the paint bond may free the window.

. Replacements. If windows are outdated, or not functioning, replacement units are readily available. A replacement window has no casing around its exterior edge, permitting it to be inserted from inside the home without disturbing the exterior finish of the structure.

Remember, these tips are only general guidelines. Since each situation is different, contact a professional if you have questions about a specific issue. More home safety and maintenance information is available online at housemaster.com.

Local gardening lessons from developing countries around the world

Photo courtesy of metrocreativegraphics.com

(NC)-Its gardening season. And any gardener in Canada can share at least one story of challenge and triumph when trying to grow their favourite vegetable. Christian Children's Fund of Canada, an international development organization, says there are a lot of lessons gardeners here can learn from those who plant in some of the world's difficult environments. In Africa, Asia and South America, families who plant essential food items are constantly challenged by the harshest of climates, a lack of water and use of the most basic harvesting tools. Yet, they have learned to be innovative and creative with their knowledge and resources.

Lessons Canadian gardeners can learn from those who plant in developing countries are to:

. Diversify by planting different varieties. In drought and pest prone climates people know not to put all their eggs in one basket. You may love tomatoes but if they don't come in as well as you would have hoped then you can enjoy a back up harvest of cucumbers or peppers.

. Select plants that complement each other: Fertile land to grow food is at a premium around the world. If you have limited space try growing the Three Sisters Garden of corn, beans and squash. Plant the corn first which grows tall, followed by pole bean seeds around the corn which uses the corn stalk to climb up and be supported. Finally, place the squash seeds about a foot and half from each mound of corn.

. Share your expertise with a neighbour. Those who plant in the developing world share their know-how and understanding with their community for all to benefit. Talk with your neighbors to get gardening tips. Implementing their gardening secrets will help your garden flourish.

. Get to know your environment. Your soil may not be appropriate for all types of seeds. Take a cup of soil and study the particles you find in it. Is there clay, sand, gravel, and organic material? Find out what would grow best in the type of soil you have in your garden.

. Remember to share the fruits of your labour. If you are blessed with an abundance of vegetables and fruits, don't create waste-share with friends, neighbours and local food banks who accept fresh goods.

More lessons from farmers in the developing world and what tools and seeds are available to them can be found online at www.ccfcanada.ca.

Healthy choices can be easy choices

(NC)-Shop for healthy foods by following these healthy tips:

. Choose colourful vegetables and fruit, especially dark green and orange kinds. They are full of vitamins A and C, and many are a source of fibre.
. Choose lean meats, meat alternatives such as beans, lentils and tofu and lower-fat milk and soy beverages (2% M.F. or less).
. Look for the Serving Size in the Nutrition Facts Table. The amount of calories, fat, sodium and fibre is based on the serving size.
. Just because bread is brown doesn't necessarily mean it is high in fibre. Look for whole grains at the beginning of the ingredient list.
. Fresh, frozen or canned? Choosing any of these fruit or vegetable options is healthy. Make sure to rinse and drain canned food before eating.
. Healthy individuals should consume 21 to 38 grams of fibre daily. Look for foods with at least 2 grams or more of fibre per serving. Don't forget to drink plenty of water. For additional information visit www.healthcheck.org.

Easy wall art showcases your style

(NC)-Wall art is all the rage these days, but it needn't be expensive, or require a lot of time and talent to create. Using stretched canvas, spray paint and stencils, you can create surprisingly beautiful, custom wall art that coordinates with your décor and showcases your personal style.

Start with a trip to your local art supply or craft store for stretched canvas of the desired size. If the space is large, consider grouping several 12" x 12" canvases. While you're there, pick up stencils in the design of your choice, or make your own. To make stencils, purchase a package of 8 1/2" x 11" full sheet removable mailing labels. You can trace your favourite patterns or cutout geometric shapes or to create almost any design.

Next, you'll need spray paint in a few of your favourite home décor colours. Krylon Indoor/Outdoor Spray Paint comes in a wide range of on-trend colours and features the industry's first EZ Touch 360o dial spray tip for greater comfort, control and coverage while painting. It is available throughout Canada at Canadian Tire, Home Hardware, Rona, Reno Depot, Wal-Mart, Kent and many other hardware and home centre stores.

For added interest and geometric effects, mask off half the stretched canvas and paint it. Seal edges tightly with your fingertip to get a crisp edge, or let overspray be part of the look. When completely dry, use a contrasting color on the other half. After paint has been allowed to dry for 24 hours or more, apply stencils, sealing edges, then paint with a contrasting colour. Layer on as many colours and stencils as you wish, waiting 24 hours between applications. You'll be amazed at the results. More ideas and inspiration can be found online at www.krylon.com.

Stay on alert for radon

(NC)-Most of us schedule an annual personal physical with our family doctor. When you consider the amount of time your family spends at home, it makes total sense to give your home an annual physical as well. HouseMaster has prepared a list of some basic healthy house issues to assist you in performing your home's physical. Set aside some time to review the following:

. Humidifiers/Dehumidifiers. Humidifiers add moisture to house air and are typically needed when a warm air heating system is operational. Dehumidifiers remove moisture from the air and are typically used in basements or crawlspace areas.

- Both of these moisture control devices should be checked regularly during usage periods.

- Check to make sure there is no leakage or overflowing of water onto the heating system and all drain lines properly dispose of the water.

- Some dehumidifiers have to be manually emptied. If this is inconvenient, replace with a unit with an automatic shut-off or drain.

- They should be thoroughly cleaned before or after seasonal use, and as needed otherwise. Remove any slime buildup with a water/bleach solution or use the cleaning agents recommended by the manufacturer.

. Alarms/Detectors. Check all safety and security alarms regularly; replace older alarms (after five years or as otherwise recommended by the manufacturer):

- Smoke/Fire Alarms. These are your family's first line of defense/warning in the event of a fire/smoke emergency. Change the batteries in all of your smoke/fire alarms at least annually. Set a regular date when all are changed each year.

- CO Monitors. Carbon Monoxide is odourless and colourless. A CO detector is the only way to identify elevated levels of CO in your home before physical injury occurs. If you don't have CO monitors protecting your home from this toxic gas, you should act immediately and install them in strategic locations near the sleeping areas and other points recommended by the manufacturer or local officials. Check that presently installed units are operational.

- Radon Testing. Check with your local municipal building department and inquire if radon gas is a community health threat. If it is, you should test your home for the presence of this invisible, odourless gas.

. Emergency Preparation. Prepare these essential items for routine activities or emergencies:

- first aid kit
- family contact list
- house equipment maintenance information
- babysitter information
- emergency evacuation kit
- medial and financial records