Tips to help kids stay dry and confident through overnight occasions

(BPT) - For the estimated 6 million-plus American children who experience bedwetting, sleepovers, sleep-away camp and vacation can trigger embarrassment, not to mention stress and worry for parents. Compounding the problem, many parents don't understand that bedwetting is a developmental phase that occurs as a child grows, and few consult their pediatricians about their concerns. In fact, a survey conducted by Strategy One found that 43 percent of parents incorrectly believe they can train their kids out of bedwetting.



"Many parents are unaware that bedwetting is a developmental condition, and not something a child can be trained out of," says pediatrician Dr. Wolffe Nadoolman. "Most children will stop wetting the bed on their own as they physically mature - until that happens, learning to manage bedwetting can cause stress between a parent and child, and ultimately impact the child's self-esteem and confidence."



It's important for parents to find coping strategies, and consistently comfort and reassure their children. Dr. Nadoolman and mom blogger and author Meagan Francis offer guidance on how parents can handle bedwetting during common overnight occasions.



1. Slumber party success



If your child agrees, talk to the host parents. Make sure they understand your child's bedwetting is a medical condition that he or she can't control. Arrange a private place to store GoodNites Underwear and a private spot for your child to change into them. Stash a dark plastic bag in his backpack to make disposal easy and discreet. Avoid bed-sharing with family or friends. Instead, have your child bring a sleeping bag.



2. Camp confidence



Bedwetting is so common, there's a good chance other kids at camp will also be managing the problem. Since camp is often the first time a child is away from home alone, talk to camp counselors and administrators ahead of time - with your child's agreement, of course. Discuss what accommodations you can make to ensure your child's GoodNites Underwear are stored and discarded privately and discreetly, and that your child has a secure place to change into them.



3. Family vacation fun



Compassion from the rest of the family will go a long way toward easing a child's bedwetting stress on vacation. Remind siblings to treat each other with love and respect. Since vacation disrupts routines, plan itineraries that allow children plenty of time to settle in at night and stick as closely as possible to their regular sleep schedule.



4. Spending time with grandparents



Trust the special relationship between grandparents and grandchildren, and explain the situation to Grandma and Grandpa. Answer any questions they may have, and emphasize the need to be sensitive to your child's feelings. Pack Bed Mats to ensure sheets stay dry, and consider leaving a package at Grandma's house for future overnight visits.



5. Adventures in overnight babysitting



Overnight babysitters need to be especially responsible and compassionate when caring for children as they cope with bedwetting. If your child is comfortable with it, discuss his or her situation with the sitter ahead of time. Make sure the sitter understands that bedwetting is a common developmental condition, and not sign of your child acting out. If your child isn't OK with the sitter knowing about his situation, make sure he understands how to change his own protective garments and PJs.



6. Less stress from out-of-town guests



Before guests arrive, make sure to prepare a sleeping place for them that is separate from your child's. Keep your child's nighttime routine and don't let visitors hinder the process. Remind siblings to respect your child's privacy and not discuss nighttime wetting in front of guests.



Though many parents fear their child will never outgrow bedwetting, the experts affirm that worrying is not the answer. It's best to comfort and reassure kids after every incident and know that bedwetting is a developmental phase that most children will outgrow on their own.



"Your role as parent is simply to help your child manage the condition and let them know it is just a bump in the road," Nadoolman says.



For more advice on bedwetting, visit www.GoodNites.com.

OCTOBER 2016 MARKET UPDATE

October 2016

Included in this blog post is a link to my Real Estate Update Newsletter. Please click on the link below to get the latest Real Estate Update for October! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call or email my office. 

614-882-6725

delena@delena.com

http://realtytimes.com/215/DeLenaCiamacco

Creating an island paradise: Tips for adding an island in your kitchen renovation

(BPT) - Custom cabinetry, granite countertops, reclaimed wood flooring and accents, and top-of-the-line, high-tech appliances - what more do you need to make your kitchen renovation perfect? How about adding an island? Designers and builders across the country are pointing to the addition of an island as the must-have upgrade for kitchen renovations this year.



Homeowners are embracing the island, and what's not to love about it? Adding an island can dramatically alter a kitchen's appearance, provide additional storage space and work area, and create a fresh focal point for family meals. What's more, common challenges that have historically held homeowners back from adding islands - such as the difficulty and high costs associated with adding plumbing drainage in the center of the room - are easier to solve than ever.



Plumbing problem solved



While you could add an island without plumbing, having a sink in an island can improve the workflow in a kitchen and open up counter space elsewhere. Plumbing an island can be problematic, however, if your home is built on a slab or a crawl space. The cost of cutting through concrete and adding piping can be prohibitive.



Above-floor plumbing can solve the problem. Manufacturers make a variety of pumping systems that can eliminate the need to cut concrete and reduce the cost of installing plumbing in a new island.



"Cutting through concrete to install plumbing can easily account for 50 percent of a renovation budget," says Chris Peterson of Saniflo. "Homeowners may decide to abandon the idea of an island altogether when they face that kind of cost. Above-floor plumbing allows them to add an island, hide a single drain pipe in a decorative column, and achieve the kitchen of their dreams at a fraction of the cost of traditional plumbing options."



Top island trends



Islands are increasingly becoming the focal point of kitchen renovations, serving both practical purposes and as design statements.



More homeowners are replacing traditional dining tables and breakfast nooks with spacious islands that feature seating. "Islands are replacing tables," said Audrey Macdonald of Creative Interiors By Audrey in Mississauga, Ontario, in the National Kitchen & Bath Association's 2015 Kitchen & Bath Style Report.



In addition to seating, homeowners are incorporating restaurant-quality fittings into islands, adding charging stations for the family's personal digital devices. They're also choosing architectural and design touches such as decorative legs, and countertops and cabinetry that contrast with those around the perimeter of the kitchen.



Kitchen renovations continue to be among the most popular home improvement projects and can offer homeowners a high return on their investments. A major kitchen remodel costing about $56,000 can recoup nearly 68 percent of its cost when you sell your home, while a minor remodel in the range of $19,000 can yield a 79 percent ROI upon resale, according to Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value Report.

Six simple steps to financial success

1. If your employer offers a 401(k) plan, use it. For a variety of reasons, it is often going to be your most attractive investment opportunity. Most employers will match a portion of your contributions, making your effective returns higher. If you contribute $1,000 to your plan, for example, and your employer matches that at 50 cents on the dollar, your contribution is actually worth $1,500. A 401(k) also offers tax advantages on contributions and investment gains. Finally, it puts your contributions on autopilot via systematic payroll deductions. That makes it less likely you'll skip contributions, and also lets you take advantage of the powerful benefits of dollar-cost averaging. (Dollar cost averaging does not ensure a profit, nor does it protect against losses in a declining market. Because dollar cost averaging involves continuous investing, investors should consider their long-term ability to continue to make purchases through periods of low price levels.)



Simply put, your regular, fixed-dollar contributions buy more shares when prices are low, and fewer when they're high.



2. Understand your investment horizon. Many people underestimate how long their retirement savings will need to last, which can lead to a host of mistakes. Some invest too conservatively, making it hard for their portfolios to keep pace with inflation. Others draw down their assets too quickly in retirement, boosting the odds that they'll run out of money in old age. The average 65-year-old in good health can expect to live about 20 more years. Your investment strategy should reflect the possibility that you will not only meet, but perhaps exceed, the life expectancy averages.



3. Don't underestimate the corrosive effects of inflation - even at low levels. At a rate of just 2 percent, inflation cuts the buying power of a dollar by a third in about 20 years. At 3 percent, it does the job in 14 years. Make sure your portfolio includes some assets, like stocks, that historically have outperformed inflation over long periods of time.



4. Diversify your investment portfolio, but understand that you will need to do more to mitigate longevity risk. Diversification is the simplest and most effective approach to managing investment risk, but is ineffective at managing many other threats to your financial security. Longevity risk, for example - the risk of outliving your savings - is best managed by pooling your risk with other investors. One way to do that is with an annuity contract issued by an insurance company. Certain annuity contracts work like old-fashioned pension plans, paying a fixed income for life. (Guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company.) Some include escalation clauses that increase your payout over time to keep pace with inflation. Knowing that you have provided for your basic living expenses with an annuity can provide the reassurance you need to take a long-term perspective on stocks and other growth-oriented investments - the ones your portfolio needs to keep pace with inflation.



5. When investing in stocks, don't confuse where a company is headquartered with where it earns its money. Many people are looking to capitalize on investments in the fast-growing emerging economies of Asia, Latin America and Eastern Europe. Often, though, emerging-market companies are not fueled by growth in their own economies. Many are mining or other natural resources firms whose results are driven by global commodity prices. Rather than investing directly in emerging markets, a better alternative for many people is to invest in U.S. companies that do business globally. Many of these companies have brands that are household names in emerging markets, and some even earn more overseas than they do in the U.S. In fact, a large share of the profits of the companies in the Standard & Poor's 500 Stock Index is generated outside the U.S. Bottom line, you already enjoy substantial global diversification with U.S. stocks.



6. Don't be afraid to ask for help. The ever-expanding array of alternative investments can seem overwhelmingly complex, and may require frequent and ongoing attention. Rather than trying to do it yourself, consider working with a financial professional. Getting their advice on matters critical to your financial well-being will usually make good fiscal sense.



Editor's Note:

Insurance products issued or offered by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, Appleton, WI. Not all products are available in all states. Securities and investment advisory services are offered through Thrivent Investment Management Inc., 625 Fourth Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55415, 800-847-4836, a FINRA and SIPC member and a wholly owned subsidiary of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. Thrivent Financial representatives are registered representatives of Thrivent Investment Management Inc. They are also licensed insurance agents/producers of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans.



Deposit and lending services are offered by Thrivent Federal Credit Union, a member-owned not-for-profit financial cooperative that is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration and doing business in accordance with the Federal Fair Lending Laws. Insurance, securities, investment advisory and trust and investment management accounts and services offered by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans or its affiliates are not deposits or obligations of Thrivent Federal Credit Union, are not guaranteed by Thrivent Federal Credit Union or any bank, are not insured by the NCUA, FDIC or any other federal government agency, and involve investment risk, including possible loss of the principal amount invested.

For additional important disclosure information, please visit Thrivent.com/disclosures.

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Firearm safety: Tips that can prevent injury and save lives

Even the most proficient sportsmen and hunting enthusiasts may need a refresher course on how to safely store their firearms. The National Rifle Association (NRA) advocates that guns should be stored so they are not accessible to unauthorized persons. Many safe storage devices for guns are available: safes, lock boxes, trigger and cable locks, and secure gun cabinets.



The NRA supports three additional tips on safe gun handling:



* Keep the gun unloaded until ready to use.



Remove the ammunition source, open the action, visually and physically inspect the chamber and magazine area, which should be clear of ammunition, and leave the action open.



* Keep a gun pointed in a safe direction.



This is a primary rule of gun safety. A safe direction means the gun is pointed in a way that if it is discharged, it will not cause any injury or damage.



* Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot your firearm.



When holding a gun, rest your trigger finger outside the trigger guard, alongside the gun. Until you are ready to shoot, do not touch the trigger.



Today, gun owners can make safety even more rewarding. Stack-On Products Company, a leading manufacturer of security cabinets, safes and tool storage systems, is sponsoring "Keep 'Em Safe - Locked and Unloaded," a pledge to encourage firearms owners to safely store their guns. By taking the pledge, firearms owners will benefit the Shoot for a Cure charity, which raises funds for leukemia and multiple sclerosis research through clay sport shooting fund-raisers. Gun owners can visit Stack-On's online pledge page, and when they complete the pledge form, Stack-On will make a monetary donation on behalf of their household - up to $20,000 total. Hunting celebrities Steve West of Steve's Outdoor Adventures, Willie Robertson of Duck Commander, and Jason Aldean and Tombo Martin of Buck Commander have endorsed the campaign to help spread awareness of safe firearm storage.



For more information on the safe gun storage pledge program, visit www.stack-on.com or call (800) 323-9601.



If you're unsure how to handle, use and store your guns safely, why not take a class? A number of organizations, including the NRA (www.nrainstructors.org) and many local police departments, offer free courses on safe gun handling.

A facelift for your kitchen: Refacing makes old cabinets instantly new

(BPT) - In this instant-gratification era, instant makeovers - from week-long juice diets to weekend home renovations - are a top trend. And according to Yahoo! Homes, so are instant kitchen updates achieved by refacing cabinets.



It's no wonder. Women spend a third of their household activity time in the kitchen, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which means there is plenty of time to daydream about a new kitchen while making and sharing meals. With so much time spent in the kitchen though, who has the luxury of going kitchen-less for weeks on end as they wait through an entire gut and remodel?



The Home Depot surveyed customers who had recently renovated their kitchens and found that almost all customers were motivated by the desire for a new, more modern aesthetic. Several remodeling options deliver a new look in no time, by simply updating the existing cabinets. Current kitchen cabinet doors and drawer fronts can be refinished through a sanding process or the wood can be renewed through a restorative process that brings out the original brilliance and luster.



Refacing is a more bold option, if you are happy with the layout of your current kitchen but are tired of a dated look with worn cabinets, doors and drawers. Doors, hardware and shelves are all replaced and the cabinet shells are completely refinished through the refacing process to create an entirely new look.



"Refacing kitchen cabinets gives a homeowner the opportunity to add organizational enhancements and revamp additional surfaces, such as counters and backsplashes, for a space that is more contemporary and personalized to match a homeowner's unique kitchen habits," explains Douglas Spiron of Home Depot Interiors.



Mapping a dream kitchen



Start your kitchen cabinet refacing project by creating a wish list of material attributes. For example, if your household includes children and pets, consider Rigid Thermofoil doors to safeguard against denting and for an easy-to-clean surface. To ensure that your space will remain visually cohesive in years to come, it is important to take into account your future plans for new appliances, fixtures, paint colors, counters and backsplashes.



Taming cabinet clutter



To get the most out of the refacing process, consider optimizing your kitchen space. Handy zones for the most frequently used utensils should be established. Items should be grouped together based on purpose and in close proximity to stationary items. Add order to every area with drawer dividers, roll-out shelves and customized organizational elements.



Expressing your style



Once you have identified areas for improvement, it is time to turn your dreams into design plans. A new vision for this hardworking room should take into account both your home's style and your personal style. The adjacent room's color palette, the amount of natural light in the space and what is seen first when entering the kitchen are important factors, in addition to stylistic preferences. This is the time to gather inspiration from favorite bloggers, friends and current trends.



Sarah Fishburne, director of trend and design for The Home Depot, shares the most popular cabinet trend right now. "Recessed doors continue to dominate the kitchen market, because the design is universal and fits in any home style - from Classic or Cottage to Arts and Craft and Modern homes. Homeowners feel more comfortable installing a universal style that will have longevity." The National Kitchen and Bath Association also points out that darker wood finishes have grown more popular over the past two years.



To begin the kitchen transformation process, visit www.homedepot.com; get inspired by the possibilities at The Apron blog.

Taking a look at key food issues

This fall, U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance wants to help families make informed decisions when it comes to those nutritious meals and learn how food gets from the farm to kids' plates. More and more, people have questions about food production, food safety and health. These are always top of mind for any of us, but they take on even more importance when you're providing meals for children and your family.



Three key food issues have been getting increasing attention lately and it's important to know what these really mean when it comes to choosing and preparing your food:



Are GM foods a healthy option?



Food from genetically-modified (GM) seeds have been commercially available and have been proven safe for human and animal consumption. GM seeds undergo testing for safety, health and nutritional value. This regulation is overseen by The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Research shows that the current commercial crops from GM seeds have the same nutritional properties as non-GM seed crops and are not harmful for humans and animals to consume.



Farmers have been genetically altering plants and seeds through selective breeding to improve characteristics such as hardiness, yield, taste and nutrition for thousands of years. Today's GM seeds are part of this evolution. Their development is sped up and more precise by inserting the genes from one plant into another in a laboratory setting.-These crops can be grown using GM seeds: sweet corn, field corn, soybeans, cotton, canola, sugar beets, papaya, alfalfa and squash.



What is the difference between organic and non-organic, and is it really important to me?



The main difference between organically and non-organically grown foods is the production method - those who raise organically grown food must follow a strict set of guidelines outlined by the USDA. The USDA organic label indicates that the food or other agricultural product has been produced through approved methods that integrate cultural, biological, and mechanical practices that foster cycling of resources, promote ecological balance, and conserve biodiversity. Like many other value-added products, organic food can be more expensive because, in some cases, it costs more to produce. A common misconception is that the increased cost of organic food relates directly to its superior nutritional value, which is unproven.



Another common misconception about organic food production involves pesticide and fertilizer use. Organic farmers can choose from organic-certified pesticides and fungicides, which are outlined by the USDA Certified Organic program. They can also use organic matter (livestock manure) for fertilizer.



Are antibiotics being used to treat farm animals harmful to me and my family in our food?



Antibiotics are used to ensure animal safety, food safety and the safety of humans and our health. A common misconception is that antibiotics used on animals will be present in the meat you buy at the store. All animals treated with antibiotics go through a withdrawal period and must meet standards for antibiotic residue before the meat enters the food supply, ensuring that any animals treated with antibiotics are safe to enter the food supply.



Another common concern is that antibiotic use in animals has contributed to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in humans. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria is a concern for both animal and human health and antibiotics are crucial to all of us. To date, there has been no proven link to antibiotic treatment failure in humans due to antibiotic use in animals raised for consumption.



"Providing a variety of food choices is very important to America's farmers and ranchers, but ensuring that consumers have the right information to make the right food choices for them is just as important," says Katie Pratt, an Illinois farm mom and U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance spokesperson. "Being an informed food consumer will help ensure healthy and nutritious meals for your kids and family throughout the upcoming school year."



For more information about food production and the U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance, visit www.FoodDialogues.com. Wholly or partially funded by one or more Checkoff programs.

Design the perfect deck: 5 must-ask questions before you start

(BPT) - A backyard should be enjoyed to its fullest extent. But all too often, homes lack enticing outdoor living areas. One way to give your outdoor space a retreat is to add a new deck. A well-designed deck can extend your living space, make your yard more functional and, best of all, provide a comfortable space for family and friends to enjoy the great outdoors.



If you're ready to build a new deck and turn your backyard into your favorite "room" in the house, here are five must-ask questions to help you design the perfect addition.



1. What do you want your deck to do?



A deck can boost the value of your yard, but only if it fits the way you live. So, before tackling a deck project, set aside time to think about how you plan to use your new space. Whether you're designing a multi-level deck for entertaining or a small, peaceful getaway, a little forethought can go a long way to ensuring your deck suits your family's lifestyle.



For example, if outdoor entertaining is what your deck is all about, an expansive deck with multiple level changes, handrails and furniture can streamline traffic flow and define areas for eating, socializing and relaxing. If a peaceful deck-escape is more your style, a free-standing deck tucked into some foliage in your backyard with a screening trellis and a water feature can create a perfectly restful retreat.



2. How will you access your deck?



As you evaluate your deck's function, keep transitions in mind. The easier your deck is to access, the more you'll get out of it. Decks positioned near frequently used openings, such as the kitchen door, make it simple to travel from one area to the other and are perfect for entertaining. Additional pathway features, like decorative stones and ground lighting, can help guests transition smoothly between your deck and yard.



If you have a raised or multi-level deck, be sure to think about stairs and railings. While these features make it safe to move between your house and backyard, they can also add visual distinction to your deck. Curved stairs, decked out walkways, backlit risers and decorative glass panels can all showcase your creativity while guiding visitors through outdoor living spaces.



3. Is your deck near water?



If you envision lounging waterside, now is the time to think about moisture-resistant decking. Decks near pools, hot tubs and lakes need to withstand frequent exposure to waves, splashing and, in some instances, full water submersion to stay beautiful for years to come.



While there are many decking materials from which to select, advanced products like ChoiceDek composite decking are a great choice for decks with water contact as they protect against moisture intrusion all the way to each board's core. "The boards are so durable they can be installed on the ground, in the ground or underwater without voiding their 25-year warranty. They keep moisture at bay so homeowners don't have to worry about their deck's long-term beauty," says Randy Gottleib, president of ChoiceDek composite decking.



4. How do you want your deck to look?



To make sure your new addition is as big on looks as it is on function, spend time dreaming about how you want your deck to look. Whether you favor sleek, clean lines or more adventurous deck patterns, the secret to a beautiful backyard deck is to make sure it ties-in with your home's architecture.



You can select from a wide array of decking color combinations that complement indoor flooring options, including popular greys and rich dark browns. Or, use contrasting colors to balance your home's exterior color scheme. If you love the look of wood but don't want to deal with all the upkeep, look for modern composites that mimic the appearance of traditional wood decking. Their realistic wood grains blend beautifully into the landscape, and complement many of today's exterior siding options.



5. Are you designing a curved deck?



If you're still looking for a way to set your yard apart, consider incorporating curves into your deck design. Curves can add architectural interest by following the contours of your landscape, encircling hot tubs and pools, or contrasting the straight lines of your house.



Get creative, but don't let materials limit your design. By following manufacturer instructions, you can shape contemporary materials like composite decking into stunning curves that will have neighbors commenting on your deck for years to come.

SEPTEMBER 2016 MARKET UPDATE

September 2016

Included in this blog post is a link to my Real Estate Update Newsletter. Please click on the link below to get the latest Real Estate Update for September! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call or email my office. 

614-882-6725

delena@delena.com

http://realtytimes.com/214/DeLenaCiamacco

Keep cool this summer with fun and flavorful frozen dessert recipes

As temperatures climb this summer, cool down with tasty and colorful frozen treat recipes for your next backyard barbecue or pool party. Offer everyone's favorite summertime treats - ice cream, sherbet and sorbet - in unique and unexpected ways, such as in refreshing beverages, delicious cake bars or whimsical parfaits. Mold frozen ingredients into bite-size treats using melon ball scoops for mini ice cream sandwiches, or use ice cube trays to make mini-popsicles as mid-afternoon pick-me-ups.

Summer is also a great time to pair frozen treats with seasonal fruits like watermelon, berries and peaches. Present these ingredients within vibrant, layered parfaits or use the fruit shells to act as novel serving bowls. For a more decadent spin, combine the frozen ingredients with more traditional dessert elements such as graham cracker crusts, shortbread or fruit pie filling.

"There's nothing more satisfying than a flavorful, chilled confection on a hot summer day," says Stan Frankenthaler, Baskin-Robbins executive chef and vice president of innovation at Dunkin' Brands. "Using a ready-made, frozen treat as a recipe base, then combining it with fresh, seasonal ingredients, is a quick and easy way to delight the taste buds of your friends and family, all while keeping them cool. Your guests will appreciate your creativity while they satisfy their sweet tooths."

Watermelon Chip Sorbet Punch

Total Time: 30 minutes

Yield: Approximately 8 (3/4 cup) servings

Ingredients:

* 1 small watermelon

* 2 cans of ginger ale

* 2 tablespoons lime juice

* 1 pint Baskin-Robbins Watermelon Chip Sorbet

Directions:

1. Cut an oblong hole in the top of the watermelon. Scoop out the watermelon, remove seeds, and mash half of the watermelon, reserving its juice.

2. Mix the watermelon juice, lime juice and ginger ale together in a bowl.

3. Pour the punch into the hulled out watermelon shell to one inch below its rim. Use the remaining punch to refresh as needed.

4. Top with small scoops of Baskin-Robbins Watermelon Chip Sorbet, and garnish each glass of punch with an additional scoop of sorbet.

Blueberry Cheesecake Ice Cream Bars

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 3 hours, 30 minutes

Yield: 24 servings

Ingredients:

* 1 3/4 cups shortbread cookie crumbs

* 7 tablespoons butter, softened

* 2 quarts Baskin-Robbins Blueberry Cheesecake ice cream, softened

* 1 jar (12 ounces) blueberry pie filling

Directions:

1. In a bowl, combine the shortbread cookie crumbs and butter until well blended. Pat the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-by-13-inch pan or dish.

2. Spread the Baskin-Robbins Blueberry Cheesecake ice cream carefully over the crust.

3. Spread blueberry pie filling evenly over ice cream.

4. Freeze three hours or until firm.

5. Slice into squares and serve.

For more delicious ice cream flavors and frozen treats, visit your local Baskin-Robbins restaurant or www.BaskinRobbins.com.

Is a surveillance camera right for you?

Many people turn to surveillance cameras as a way to make their home and office more secure. There are so many different types of security measures on offer, however, that it can be hard to know which is the right type of equipment for your needs. This article explores the different security measures and tools available and what the advantages and disadvantages of each of them are.



CCTV cameras can be attached to the outside of the building, can be placed over the door step, can be placed inside or can be entirely hidden from view. There are even dummy cameras available that provide a good deterrent aspect but don't actually incur any additional cost of filming. All cameras that can be seen work well as a deterrent. A burglar is far less likely to break into a home when there is the chance they will shown doing so on video surveillance footage. CCTV cameras don't necessarily sound an alarm however if security is breached in some way. In this respect they may be able to film a crime being committed but they won't necessarily be able to put a stop to it. Having the footage available however does mean there is more chance of getting your things back if they have been stolen.



Burglar alarms are another way that people add security to their homes. These have a large number of problems however. First of all burglaries are usually very quick and the perpetrator can be long gone by the time the police or a security firm have arrived on the scene. Secondly the alarm can in some cases be stopped by simply locating the control panel and breaking it. Cats and other animals can also sometimes trip the alarm when they jump through an open window, which can cause problems for everyone.



The ideal solution is to have both surveillance monitoring of some kind as well as a motion sensor, this way you get the best of all worlds. If this stretches the budget too far however then it is better to simply go with some kind of camera equipment. This provides the best value for money in terms of security. In the past it was just the wealthiest members of society who were able to afford security equipment such as cameras, but these days the prices have come right down and now everyone can benefit. Nanny cameras and hidden indoor cameras are another very popular type of security surveillance. Camouflaged cameras can allow you to see things that you would otherwise not be privy to. Parents like to be able to check their nannies are caring for their children well, employers like to be able to check everything is just as it should be in the workplace.



Another scenario in which hidden cameras are ideal is for the use of gathering evidence. If you are being targeted or victimized, having hard evidence to show the police can mean something can be done. Without the proof however the police may be hesitant to take any real action. There is no doubt that cameras are a valuable and versatile security tool. Surveillance can assist in a number of different ways to keep everyone safe and free from harm. If you are unsure of what type you need the first step is to define what exactly you want the security camera for and then decide how much you are willing to spend.



When you search online you will find a host of companies offering surveillance camera equipment and monitoring devices. Make sure you buy from a reputable company with a good website. There is more choice online than in high street shops so it is best to buy your equipment here. From a wildlife camera to tracking devices, go online to find out what is available and get the best prices.



by: Kathryn Dawson

http://www.articlecity.com/articles/home_improvement/article_6339.shtml

Themed bedroom ideas that can grow with your little girl

As a parent, how to decorate your child's room is one of the tough decisions you have to make. She might love Dora the Explorer today, but it's not likely that she'll want cartoons on her walls forever. You could end up spending a ton of money redecorating every year or two if you don't think ahead. Here are seven theme ideas for girls' rooms that can grow with her over the years, saving you money.



Princess



All little girls love to be princesses - and teens like to act like them too. Take a more mature approach to it from the start. Chose a subdued pink and pair it with browns to give the room a Victorian look.Canopy beds are regal, but they can be expensive. Instead, go for a smaller, removable net canopy, which attaches to the ceiling via a ring and only flows over the head of the bed. Use gold touches to finish the room with an elegant feel, and display princess toys that your child has until she outgrows them.



Garden



Instead of painting cartoon flowers and bumble bees all over the walls, which can be fun for a toddler but overwhelming for a teenager, try using real flowers (or silk flowers if you don't have a green thumb) on shelves that are out of reach of tiny hands. Use natural colors, like greens and browns, for painting and sheer curtains to let in as much light as possible. Keep the artwork on the walls whimsical enough for a children's room - like pictures of fairies or butterflies - yet sophisticated enough for teens; skip the cartoons and look for prints of paintings.



Retro



Creating a retro room for your daughter can be fun, but don't go too crazy with the flower power and smiley faces! Instead, stick to using colors that were popular in the 1960s and add fun touches like beaded curtains, printed rugs, and beanbag chairs. Use a lava lamp as a night light and stick to fabrics in funky prints, like paisley.



Paris



Pink French poodles and polka dots look cute in a little girls' room, and it is actually fairly easy to take that style idea and make it appropriate for any age group. Start with color - a Parisian themed room should have elements of black, pink, white, and tan. Stuffed poodles can easily be replaced on shelves with more sophisticated decor, such as an Eiffel Tower replica or French country prints. Add mirrors and sconces to the walls (out of reach of small children of course) and for the furniture, think wrought iron and wood painted white or cream and distressed.



Celestial



Girls can love sciences and technology as much as boys, so why not choose a celestial outer space theme for your child? Use navy-colored paint to give the illusion of a night sky and glow-in-the-dark stars that can be removed if she no longer likes them when she's older. To give the room a girl's touch, use celestial sun, moon, and star accent pieces and pretty cloud or sunset artwork.



Beach



Tropical themed bedrooms are always a hit for kids, but creating an island paradise that will still be appropriate when your toddler is a teen can be challenging. Subtlety is key here. Use beach colors like aqua and blue for the walls or furniture and instead of carpeting, go for a wood floor that gives the room a more beach bungalow feel. For small children, use some tropical-inspired rugs to make the play surface safer, and use shells and hibiscus flowers to complement your design. You can also use bamboo and wicker for furniture and blinds in the room, and frame artwork featuring mermaids, dolphins, and sailboats for the walls.



Hollywood Glitz



Most young girls love to play dress up, and teens may also be very into fashion. A Hollywood glitz and glam room can be great for themed bedrooms. Instead of a traditional dresser, chose a vanity, which your daughter will appreciate when she's in high school, and instead of a wallpaper border, string white Christmas lights around the room that can be kept up all year. Use clear beads that give the illusion of diamonds in the window treatment and for a chandelier-like lighting fixture and add a few touches of animal prints in pillows, throw rugs, etc. for a little fun.



Remember, your toddler may not grow up to like the style you chose, so be prepared for your tomboy teen to hate her garden-inspired room or your cheerleader to have an issue with the beach theme you picked. The good news is that no matter what theme you use today, if you switch out the accessories, she'll love it tomorrow. Avoid huge decor choices that are hard to change, because you want her room to grow with her tastes.



by: Max Sheppard



http://www.articlecity.com/articles/home_improvement/article_5968.shtml

What you need to know about composite decking

Have you ever considered composite decking but disregarded the idea because you felt like you didn't know enough about it? Maybe you've wondered how composite decking is made? Or what kinds of materials make up composite decking?



Although composite decking is not new, lack of familiarity with the product may lead you to be confused when making a decision about what you should choose for your deck. To make this decision-making process easier, it often helps to go back to the basics.



So what is composite decking anyway? By definition, composite decking is a wood-like product that is created by the mixture of wood fibers, or sawdust, and virgin and recycled plastics. The combination of these elements along with color pigments and other protective additives, form a traditional wood-like decking profile that requires less maintenance than traditional wood decks.



Many composite decking products are manufactured through a process called extrusion. This is defined as a forming process in which melted plastic and wood materials are forced through an opening to produce a product that maintains a relatively consistent size and shape. Think of it like putty that is being pushed through a mold. The opening gives the board the shape and texture.



Another manufacturing method is compression molding. Combined molten materials for the composite wood are placed on to wood grain molds which are then compressed under tremendous heat and pressure to create a physical bond. The force applied helps to squeeze out air pockets and create a compressed board.



For outdoor living, composite decking provides many added benefits including weather resistance, complementary colors, durability and reduced maintenance.



* Weather resistance: The density of a composite decking board helps protect the board from rot and decay caused by prolonged exposure to moisture. By keeping moisture out, this helps reduce mildew, insects and bacteria.



* Complementary colors: The composite boards are also manufactured in a range of colors to perfectly complement any home. Instead of needing stain or paint, the colors are already added to the boards.



* Durability: Composite decking boards are manufactured to be stain resistant against certain common food and beverage stains, including mustard, ketchup, barbecue sauce, canola oil, fruit punch, wines and coffee. This stain resistance will preserve the life and beauty of the deck.



* Maintenance: Composite decking does not require paint, stain or a sealer reducing the overall maintenance of the deck. The best way to maintain a composite deck is to keep it swept, hose it off at least twice a year and attend to stains promptly with household cleaners or commercially available composite deck cleaners.



Overall, composite decking is a low maintenance product that has become a desirable alternative for outdoor living. Some composite deck products, like TAMKO's Envision, even add an extra layer of protection against weather, staining and scratching to preserve the natural beauty of the composite decking board.



TAMKO's Envision is uniquely designed with an added outer layer that is physically bonded to the core board under a compression process. This bonded outer layer adds durability to the core materials that provide the strength and consistency of the board. Envision also comes in four true, multi-shaded color options, designed with color highlights that emulate the textures and natural color variations of real wood to further enhance the natural beauty of the deck. To learn more about TAMKO's Envision, visit www.tamko.com.



Knowing more about the choices available helps you make a more informed decision about the product that is best for you. Composite decking shouldn't be something you avoid because you don't know anything about it. Composite decking has come a long way since it was first introduced and can provide you with the beauty and satisfaction you look for in a deck for years to come. You don't want to miss out.

Go big or go home with your redecorating? Why not both?

In reality, it is possible to make a big difference in your home decor on just a moderate budget of $5,000 or less. The room that will give you the biggest "wow" for your investment is the one your guests spend the most time in - the living room. Here are some tips for getting that "go big" feeling for less money.

Do it yourself

Look for high visibility projects that you can reasonably do yourself, like painting, tiling or even installing murals for living rooms. Keep in mind your level of DIY skill and how polished and professional you can reasonably expect your finished product to look. If you choose a project that's a bit above your current skill level, make sure you prep for the new experience with plenty of research or a hands-on class. Many home improvement stores offer low-cost or even free classes on popular home improvement projects.

Big projects look ... well, bigger

It's no mystery why repainting the walls, changing out flooring or switching window treatments all make such an impact on how a room looks. The bigger the surface area of the design element you change, the greater its affect on the room's overall appearance. Making a design change to a large room element can allow you to generate major impact with a relatively minor investment of money. Window treatments can add up if you go with custom options, but if your windows are standard sized and you're a savvy shopper, you can track down bargains that will allow you to dress up your windows for as little as a few thousand dollars. Painting is even more cost effective, and you can redo a large room for a few hundred dollars.

Borrow a designer's trick

When it comes to grand statements, designers have a trick or two up their sleeves. They also know how to make the most of a shoestring budget, so look to popular designer tricks for inspiration. One interior design technique that has held its popularity against the test of time (and the economy) is a wallpaper mural. Adding a custom wall mural to your interior design plans offers the opportunity for creativity and customization, and maximizes the use of your wall space in making a grand statement. You can find plenty of online options at websites like MuralsYourWay.com, many for less than $1,000 and most for well under $3,000. They're easy to install, and you can even opt for the type that is removable and reusable. So if you tire of the look, you can take it down and move it elsewhere, fold it up and store it for another time and even color match it to your wall paint color.

If you've decided to keep your fun money at home this season, you can go home and go big, with some planning, savvy shopping and a touch of DIY creativity.

IMAGE CAPTIONS:

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Caption 1: The addition of a bright wall mural makes a bold statement and transforms a space.

Caption 2: A blank wall offers an opportunity to go big with color or graphic elements.

Easy kitchen updates that won't break the bank

It goes without saying that the kitchen is one of the hardest-working rooms in the home. For most, it's the heart of family life and usually the one room where everyone gathers together. With so much hustle and bustle, it's no wonder that the kitchen runs the risk of looking overworked.



A remodeled kitchen not only reinvigorates the space, but the home overall. This isn't always easy to accomplish though, as a full-blown renovation can be quite expensive and time-consuming. However, even on a tight budget, there are plenty of ways to spruce up the room without breaking the bank.

As dirt and grease build up over time, appliances around the kitchen can appear old and dull. The easiest way to rejuvenate those appliances without spending a fortune on new ones is by giving them a thorough cleaning. Since the stove is often used most, it's a good place to start. Clean the entire surface inside and out using a product that is safe for all surfaces. Try Goo Gone Foaming Kitchen Grease Cleaner to cut through the baked-on grease and stuck-on grime clinging to your stove without needing to scrub. Get into every nook and cranny until it sparkles.

After the stove is clean, repeat the process for the microwave, backsplash, oven hood, sink and countertops. All of your kitchen appliances will begin to look like new again, and your kitchen won't seem so worn and outdated.

Once finished with the kitchen surfaces, consider some other affordable updates that can make a huge impact:

Paint the cabinets - A lackluster room can quickly become re-energized with a vibrant new color. Repaint the cabinets a lively hue to brighten the space or freshen the existing paint color with a new coat.

Update fixtures - Don't expect that the faucet handles you installed more than 10 years ago will last another 10. In addition to being practical, kitchen fixtures can add style and enhance overall design. Look for fixtures that fit your kitchen motif, whether it's modern and sleek or shabby chic.

Change existing hardware - Think of hardware as jewelry for the kitchen. Add new glass or metal knobs, or bars to highlight cabinets and enhance the overall style of the room. If using metal hardware, choose one type and stick to it for a clean, uniform look.

Create shelving - Removing cabinet doors to create shelving can provide a sense of openness and additional space. Simply remove cabinet doors and fill in holes with wood filler. Then, sand until smooth and paint as desired. You can also paint the inside of the newly open cabinets as a decorative treatment.

Introduce new fabric - Are your cushions looking dingy and outdated? Re-cover chairs or stools with bright, patterned fabric that reflects your personality. Also consider framing the space with new curtains that liven up your "new" kitchen.

Find your green thumb - Instead of buying fresh herbs at the grocery store or farmers market, plant them in pots in your kitchen. They will help add freshness to both the atmosphere and your food (while saving you money).

Don't forget about the floor - Update floors without the significant cost associated with new flooring by simply adding a rug. Find a rug that's durable to high foot traffic, but also complements your kitchen style.

Complete all the updates, or pick and choose to make a difference even on the smallest budget. This process will certainly work on other areas of the home as well. Just as with the kitchen, always start with a good cleaning to instantly revitalize the items in your home. To save time and money, use products designed to clean multiple surfaces - including carpeting, upholstery, hard surfaces and more. Then, look around to see what can be updated without a complete renovation. Your home will have a fresh appeal in no time.