Monthly Archives: September 2010

Electric Fireplace Inserts: They’re Hot

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We’ll admit that touting an electric fireplace insert as ‘sexy’ isn’t the easiest thing to do. But man are we gonna try! Wouldn’t you love to have all the benefits of a fireplace without any of the annoying or time-consuming things that come with it?

Everyone loves having a fireplace. It’s a fact. The warmth, the imagery, the snap and crackle – what’s not to like? If you’ve ever owned a natural fireplace, then you know that it’s not all smiles and rainbows. With natural fireplaces you have to deal with cleaning ash and residue, the potential chimney fires and the unwanted smoke, not to mention the constant supply of wood you’ll need to keep the fire burning. If that sounds terrible to you, then take a look at an electric fireplace insert.


Electric Fireplace Inserts  are the Evolution of Fireplaces

Real Flame Electric Firebox Insert

With a fireplace insert, you’ll be able to quickly and easily heat up your room in a stylish manner. The LED lights give the illusion of a natural fireplace, along with the comfort that aesthetic provides. The combination of wood inserts and flame are incredibly convincing, and the fan distributed heat will keep the entire room warm and cozy.

If you’re worried about losing out on the soothing pops and crackles, fear not! Certain electric fireplace inserts provide those same calming sounds in a very natural and authentic manner.

In this day and age, if you can’t manage something with a button then what’s the point? With an electric fireplace insert you’ll be able to control the heat with a remote, just like your DVD player or iPod. Imagine how impressed your guests will be when you are able to light up your fireplace with the press of a button.

Did we mention that the cost of keeping an electric fireplace insert up and running is relatively cheap, and there’s little to no maintenance needed?  A fireplace insert adds elegance and style to any room, and the ease of use plus a lack of maintenance and cleanup are just icing on the cake. Still don’t think electric fireplace inserts are sexy? Maybe not, but they sure sound pretty cool.

Redecorating Your Office: Just Do It!

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We know; redecorating your office can seem like a pretty lofty task. For some reason, the office accumulates a ton of junk, from coffee-stained files to trinkets and old software you’ll never use again (just let go of the Windows 98 start-up disc, we promise you won’t need it).

So how do you turn this cluttered room into an organized and stylish workspace? Strap on your hard hat and let’s get to work.

Bush Furniture Vantage Home Office Wood Corner Computer Desk in Cherry

Step 1: Decide What Stays and What Goes

First things first, grab a garbage bag and start filling it. If you’re like most people, you’ll have collected plenty of things that belong in the trash basket over the years. Once you’ve cleaned out all of the scrap, it’s time to choose what furniture you’re going to keep. If you have a few pieces that are complementary, (and that you like) think about creating a theme that can put them to use.

Don’t forget about the paint or wallpaper! A new coat of paint or a different wall paper pattern can be one of the quickest ways to transform your office.

Step 2: Take Measurements

We suggest that you clear out the room entirely, just so that you can get a fresh view of the room. Don’t let the old set-up keep you stuck in the past. An empty room will really open you up to new possibilities. Take measurements of the room so you know how much space you have to work with and what size furniture you need.

Z-Line Belaire L-Shape Glass Top Computer Desk in Black

Step 3: Past or Present?

Now it’s time to decide if you want to keep the same style of furniture going forward or if you want to start from scratch and go in another direction. Here’s a list of important furniture you’ll want to put in your office: a desk, office chair, file cabinet, computer or bookcase. Keep a constant style in mind when you pick out new furniture; woods with decorative carvings and grandiose design for traditional rooms; or metals, woods and glass with simplistic style for modern-looking furniture.

Step 4: Accessorize

Once you have the overall design of the room figured out – you’ve chosen a color of paint or wallpaper for the walls, you’ve picked out new furniture, you’ve arranged it the way you want – you’ll want to add some accessories that quietly complement the rest of the room. Some ideas you may want to consider are wall shelves, art, rugs and window treatments. Remember to not go overboard, as you just spent hours de-cluttering the room.

Step 5: Personalize

For the finishing touch, add some personal items that will make the office unique to you. A few framed photos or personal awards and keepsakes will go a long way in making you feel at home in your office.

Buying A Clock with Personality

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There are thousands of clocks for you to choose from, but what if you’re looking for something with a bit more ‘oomph’? Forget about your standard digital clock; it’s time to find a clock that shows off your own individuality and personality. Here are a few styles of clock that add vibrancy and panache to your home.

Grandfather Clocks

Howard Miller Hamlin Grandfather Clock

The grandfather clock is the patriarch of the clock family. It’s the staple of elegance and sophistication and adds a touch of classiness to any home. The basic design consists of a floor clock with a swinging pendulum and suspended weights enclosed in a cabinet.

Grandfather clocks are a great fit for any room in the home. There are a variety of different styles and finishes to choose from, as well as faceplates, pendulums and chimes, so you can find a grandfather clock to fit nearly every type of décor.

You can also choose different types of clock movements: electric, quartz and windup mechanical. Grandfather clocks are timeless pieces that will last you an entire lifetime and can even be passed down as heirlooms.

Cuckoo Clocks

Schneider Musical Leaf & Bird Cuckoo Clock

Cuckoo clocks are probably the most celebrated and well-known type of clock because of the whimsy they provide. Cuckoo clocks provide a ‘call’ – either a movement or sound – that signals either every half hour (30 minutes) or hour (60 minutes). The cuckoo clock got its name from chimes that mimicked the call of the cuckoo.

Today, the majority of cuckoo clocks are wall-mounted and traditional in design, often carved or decorated with leaves, animals and other nature themes. Typically, a mechanized cuckoo bird will appear from an enclosure to announce either the half hour or hour.

Neon Clocks

Howard Miller Gallery Neon Gallery Wall Clock

Neon clocks evoke thoughts of classic 50s drive-in diners and doo-wop music playing on the radio. Neon clocks are fairly self-explanatory – a bright and colorful clock usually paired with an iconic image lit up in bright neon.

Neon clocks are a better fit with modern or contemporary rooms, and are a big no-no when it comes to traditional décor, as the neon will clash harshly with natural wood walls and furniture.

These are just three styles of clock with personality in spades. If you’re looking to boost the character of a room, consider either a grandfather, cuckoo or neon clock.

Doing Yoga and Pilates from Home: What You Need

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Summer is over and you have to put your swimsuit in the drawer until next year, but that’s no reason to let your summer bod go by the wayside. Yoga and Pilates are great ways to keep in shape during the fall and winter seasons. If you have trouble motivating yourself to head to the gym, or you don’t enjoy working out in front of strangers, then a home yoga or Pilates setup might be the answer.

Stamina AeroPilates Arc

If you’re new to yoga and Pilates, how do you get started? Here are some ideas and items that will help you take the first step towards creating a fun and useful yoga or Pilates workout from home.

Yoga and Pilates DVD Guides

Stamina Introduction to AeroPilates with Marjolein Brugman

Newbies will need a guide to show them the basics. Luckily, there are great DVDs that show you the correct positions and exercises that will whip you into shape. DVDs allow you to learn at your own pace, as you can pause and rewind if you’re having trouble getting the hang of certain moves.

Once you feel like you’ve got a solid foundation, there are advanced DVDs available with all new workouts that will keep you from getting bored while challenging your body with new exercises.

Basic Yoga and Pilates Gear

Power Systems Premium Yoga Mat 68

So what do you need to get started? A basic yoga mat is the first item on your checklist. These inexpensive mats are mandatory, and will provide cushioning and support for the majority of your exercises, whether you’re working out on carpet or hardwood floors. Resistance bands are a great way to tone arms without adding bulk, so those looking for definition over size might want to choose these over a set of weights. Yoga blocks are a smart choice for those with poor flexibility, as they provide support and allow you to do positions properly without straining.

More advanced equipment includes spine corrector barrels for difficult positions, as well as cardio and stamina machines that will effectively burn calories. You’ll be able to perform multiple low-impact exercises that will tone and shape your body and help you avoid injury.

Yoga and Pilates are two great ways to stay in shape, and you’ll be able to perform both from the comfort of your own with a few inexpensive items. If you hate the gym or working out in your living room is more convenient, yoga and Pilate DVDs and equipment for the home are what you’re looking for.

Buying A TV Stand: Everything You Need to Know

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Now that the days are shorter and the nights chillier, you’ll be spending more time indoors, so it’s the perfect time to upgrade your television furniture. A great TV is diminished by a mediocre TV stand, and you don’t want to surround a high-end television with shoddy furniture. Not every TV stand is created equal, so check out the different options available to you before you buy.

TV Stands – First Things First


Bush Universal 60 Inch TV Stand

Before you begin shopping for a new TV stand, make sure to measure the dimensions of your living room or den so that you know how much room you have to work with. Next, take measurements of your television. If you have a new flat screen television, stand depth won’t be an issue. But if you’re watching an older tube television, make sure that the TV isn’t too big for the stand, or it will only be a matter of time before something tips over.

Types of TV Stands


Sonax Naples Black and Ebony Pecan TV Stand for 42-68 Inch Flat Panel TVs

Depending on your personal taste, storage needs and placement in the room, there’s a fairly wide selection of stands to choose from:

  • TV Hutch: A TV hutch is the right choice for those with a greater demand for storage space. Hutches typically come with plenty of drawers and shelves for all of your hardware and software, and open-and-close doors can effectively hide your television when you’re not watching, preserving the room’s natural décor.
  • Platform Stand: A platform stand is made for a modern or contemporary room where simple is king. The frames are usually backless and feature a small number of shelves for DVD players, cable boxes and a small collection of DVDs.
  • Corner Stand: Designed specifically to fit in room corners, these stands are the perfect choice if you’re planning on setting up your TV and entertainment center in the corner of the room; great for small or oddly-shaped rooms.
  • Z-line TV Stand: Minimalist design and staggered shelving. Typically combines glass shelving with a wood or metal frame.
  • Cabinet Stands with Doors: Wide cabinets with a placement for the television on top. Bottom cabinets give you tons of storage for everything from DVDs, DVD players, video games or even blankets.

TV Stand Materials


Grand Aspirations 62 Inch Cherry TV Stand

The material you choose for your TV stand should be a reflection of the room’s décor and the surrounding furniture:

  • Glass TV stands are typically featured in minimalist or modern rooms due to their sparse design and clean lines.
  • Wood TV stands are a common choice because they fit in with the majority of contemporary rooms. Always choose a real wood veneer such as cherry, light oak, pine or mahogany.
  • Metal TV stands are commonly made from stainless steel that won’t degrade or rust. Usually found in rooms with a modern design.

You can find swivel TV stands that allow you to rotate the television depending on your position in the room, or TV stands with casters that allow you to move the stand from place to place.

Partnering your television with a great TV stand will really make the room come alive. With a little bit of foresight, you’ll be able to find a TV stand that meets all of your needs and expectations.

Let the Comfort Baking Commence!

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Treat your family to a little comfort food this fall when you pick up one or more of the small appliances that make baking a breeze. With Halloween and Thanksgiving both around the corner, the timing is perfect to start planning your fall baking.

Indulge in your favorite cakes, cookies, breads, and any other treats you love to serve, but never have time to bake. To get you started, here are a couple of staple kitchen appliance products you’ll want in your home.

Electric Mixers

Depending on how often you bake, having an electric mixer could be your new best friend. To start shopping, think about budget versus function. How much do you want to spend and what kind of baker are you?

You could purchase a hand-held mixer with beater attachments or opt for a stand and bowl mixer. Basic hand-held models are quite economical and more than sufficient to prepare batter from a packaged powder. However, if you prefer to bake from scratch, you may want to invest in a stand model to better accommodate extra blending and thicker batters.

Sunbeam Stand Mixer 300 W 12 Speed with Steel Bowl

Bread Makers

Having fresh baked bread at home can be addictive. Once you’ve had homemade, custom seasoned breads, you won’t want the pre-packaged supermarket kind. To get the most value from your purchase, choose a bread maker can customize crust preference or create cakes and pizza dough.

Panasonic Bread Maker 5 Size

For more appliance ideas, think of blenders, deep fryers, food processors, and juicers. Think of sandwich, popcorn, and waffle makers for light snacks and breakfast treats. Choose the appliances you’ll use and enjoy to make sure you can create a spread of comfort food fit for family events and special occasions.

If you have children at home that would love to help you bake, but are still just a bit too young, treat them to a pretend baking play set from brands like KidKraft or Learning Resources.

Laptop Bags for School

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September is here and you’re heading back to school. Instead of lugging around a variety of different notebooks and binders, you want to keep all of your notes and files organized on your laptop. What you’ll need is a good, solid laptop bag that will keep your computer protected and give you enough storage space for your other school supplies.

Rolling Laptop Bags


McKlein P Series Clinton Polyester 17 Inch Detachable Wheeled Laptop Case

Rolling laptop bags are great for students who are carrying a bunch of text books along with their laptop. Rolling bags often come with a detachable wheel and handle base, so if you’re walking from class to class you can pull it along, then detach the bag from the base once you’re at your desk. Rolling bags are also very handy for travel, and are commonplace in airports. If you’re looking for a bag with more storage and convenience, a rolling lap top bag is your best bet.

Messenger Bags


Royce Leather Flap-Over Messenger Bag in Black

Messenger bags have become the standard laptop bag for many students. Once used by bike couriers, messenger bags have gone mainstream. Messenger bags have a professional yet casual appearance, which is perfect for any student or young professional. They are worn with a shoulder strap, and often come with multiple pockets and placements for phones, pens, calculators and other items.

Backpack Laptop Bags


Olympia Sports Plus Keystone Red 19-Inch Backpack With Laptop Compartment

If a shoulder strap bag or rolling bag aren’t your style, then a standard backpack with a laptop compartment is the perfect choice for high school and university students. Backpack laptop bags are extremely casual looking and allow you to carry all of your belongings hands-free. They’re great for storage and the adjustable straps provide plenty of support and comfort, all while keeping your laptop safe and protected.

A good laptop bag is a must for any student who uses their computer for school on a regular basis, so find one that suits your needs today.

Back-to-School Supply Catch-up

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You got through the rush of back-to-school shopping and it’s time to relax. So you’re probably thinking, “Who needs to catch up on school supplies already?”

Actually, if you kept some supplies from last year, now is the perfect time to re-assess whether or not your children’s backpacks, lunch boxes, and bedroom furniture are really still meeting their needs.

Hot spots to check are:

California Pak S Curve 18

Backpack straps and support

Look and see if the straps are secure or if they’re starting to tear and detach from the back of the pack. Straps should be adjustable and allow the bag to fit snugly against the upper back.

Is the number or size of this year’s textbooks more of a burden than before? If so, the support structure of an old backpack might be inadequate. Be sure your child’s bag has a solid, firm back panel, reinforced with extra padding as needed.

Wildkin Jungle Lunch Bag

Lunch bag zippers, straps, hinges, and locks

For a fabric lunch bag, are all zippers and straps still good? Or for a plastic lunch box, are all hinges and locking tabs working properly? Has the plastic or fabric absorbed any smells or colors? You may not want to replace lunch bags and boxes every year if your child hasn’t been too rough on them, but also keep in mind that spills or stains could make it hard to keep an older food carrier as sanitary as you want it.

Office Star Kool Kolor Metal Computer Desk in Blue

Homework and storage space

If your child doesn’t yet have his or her own desk for homework (and your kitchen table or coffee table seem more cluttered this school year) it might be time for a simple child’s desk.

Or if your child already has a desk, see if there is still enough storage space. You can add a hutch to the desk or supplement with a bookcase for a cost-effective homework space upgrade.

Don’t worry; we’re not recommending an expensive shopping list right after the back-to-school bills have cleared. We know that: 1) you kept those supplies to save money and 2) the back-to-school budget is pretty small by now.

So we’re suggesting online sales and discounts. Look for products with free shipping (that can add up!) and other special offers. Once you know what you really do need, the list shouldn’t be too intimidating.

At this time of year, you might also find great deals on art supplies, educational toys, puzzles, stamp sets, or other accessories to enhance hands-on learning and school projects.

Warm Up this Fall with an Outdoor Fireplace

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If you love spending time on your patio or deck, you’ve already noticed that fall weather is on the way. Why not get a bit more mileage out of your back yard this year by simply adding a fireplace? Just a bit of extra warmth could make the difference when you want to snuggle up for a cocktail or snack outdoors.

Depending on where you live climate-wise and what kind of equipment your yard can accommodate, your options for outdoor fireplaces can include chimineas, metal fire pits, metal fire rings, and outdoor stoves.

Napoleon Wall Mounted Outdoor Torch/Fireplace

Effortlessly Elegant Outdoor Fireplaces

Today’s incredible selection of contemporary and traditional outdoor fireplace designs can fit seamlessly with the look you’ve already created in your yard. Add a touch of class to a partially enclosed patio with elegant wall mounted fireplace sconces. Grab a portable stove-style model to hang out on your back deck and switch to your front porch as inspiration strikes.

For maximum warmth, add a heater or two. Combined with the comforting ambiance of your outdoor fireplace, you’ll be downright toasty well into the fall. Bring your blanket and a hot drink, but be warned, you might get so comfortable you won’t want to head in for the night!

Uniflame Black Outdoor Fire Pit with Folding Legs and Carrying Case

Portable Fires for Home and Away

How about a last-minute camping trip? Not only can an outdoor fireplace keep you lounging out back later in the year, but you could choose a portable fireplace and go camping or RVing. If you don’t like crowded campsites, fall is a great time to go. And with your portable outdoor fireplace, you’re ready for chilly weather.

A really clever combination is a fire pit (shown above) with gel-fueled simulated logs. You can have the safety of gel fuel in your back yard, but leave the log set at home when you camp. The versatility to burn wood or gel to suit your mood will leave you smiling even if there’s a nip in the air.

Summer’s Last Blast: The Labor Day Weekend

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The home stretch for warm weather is on its way. So we want to help you give summer a send off to remember with a back yard barbecue. Invite your friends, family, the neighbors – whoever you want to share the day with. But before  you get set to grill, take a look around your patio and make sure you’ve got the right gear on hand.

Weber Spirit E-310 Liquid Propane Gas Grill in Black

So where to start? You’ve heard that a wedding is all about the dress, right? Well a barbecue is all about the grill. Sure, there’s a bit less pressure, but let’s face it, the Labor Day holiday could be your last backyard bash for the whole year. Think about it; you could have eight or nine months to wait before your next real patio party. If your reputation for great grilling is at stake, look at larger cart-style grills with a side burner and top shelf for toasting buns and roasting vegetables.

Weber Three-Piece Stainless Steel Dishwasher Safe Cooking Tool Set

Don’t forget the grilling accessories. Look for stainless steel sets of at least a fork, spatula, and pair of tongs. You’ll find many larger sets – up to over 20 pieces – but it’s more important that you have strong steel utensils that can handle the more punishing routine of cooking outdoors. Remember that grilling tools make great gifts too!

Weber Premium Cover For Spirit 200/300 Series Gas Grill

When it’s time to wrap up the party, you might be shutting down for the season. With the winter months in mind, be sure you’ve got a cover for your grill as well as your patio furniture. Your climate might not include snow, but moisture usually comes in the winter months no matter where you live. Covering up your furniture and grill will make it that much easier to get your patio up and running again in the spring.

In the meantime, we know you’ll have an unforgettable weekend. All you need now is a hungry group and you’re ready to go!