If you just want great looking cookies but don't want to make an all-day production out of it, there are a few ways to add a special touch before the cookies are even baked.
One easy way to spruce up cookies is to roll them in colored sugar, finely chopped nuts, coconut, sesame seeds or sprinkles before baking. This looks wonderful on thumbprint cookies and sugar cookies.
Even a light dusting of confectioners' sugar or cocoa powder will give any cookies an elegant finish. Dust the cookies again, right before serving, to freshen their appearance.
* Don't forget to get your little ones to help or your sweetheart- inexpensive and truly "homemade" :)
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Checking Fluids
In all their various forms, the fluids that run through your car are like blood running through our bodies - they are essential to keep the car operational. You can maintain fluids yourself or take your car to a mechanic and let him take care of your vehicle. Regardless of who services your vehicle, you must keep fluids in good condition and at proper levels or you will have car trouble.
Generally, oil should be changed every 3,000 miles or three months, which ever comes first. When changing oil, it's important to check the oil filter at the same time to see if it also needs to be changed. You don't want a dirty filter contaminating the new oil.
For your information: Coolant and antifreeze are the same fluid. Regardless of what you call it, this fluid should be changed about once a year and the system should be flushed to remove any built-up deposits. Check your owner's manual for details.
Brake and steering fluids are both critical in the operation of your vehicle. Having the right amount of these fluids is vital for adequate braking and steering power. Check your owner's manual for a maintenance schedule regarding these fluids. Although it may be bright and sunny when you leave for your trip, rain (or snow) will likely come down at least once on your vacation. Make sure you have plenty of washer fluid so you can see clearly through your windshield.
Generally, oil should be changed every 3,000 miles or three months, which ever comes first. When changing oil, it's important to check the oil filter at the same time to see if it also needs to be changed. You don't want a dirty filter contaminating the new oil.
For your information: Coolant and antifreeze are the same fluid. Regardless of what you call it, this fluid should be changed about once a year and the system should be flushed to remove any built-up deposits. Check your owner's manual for details.
Brake and steering fluids are both critical in the operation of your vehicle. Having the right amount of these fluids is vital for adequate braking and steering power. Check your owner's manual for a maintenance schedule regarding these fluids. Although it may be bright and sunny when you leave for your trip, rain (or snow) will likely come down at least once on your vacation. Make sure you have plenty of washer fluid so you can see clearly through your windshield.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Batproof Your Attic
Bats are nasty creepy and gross- who in the world wants them anywhere in their home? Here is a great tip on how to proof your home and keep icky bats out (hmm...wonder if this works n other pests... need to husband proof the house as well!)
This time of year, bats are looking for a cave to settle down in for the winter. So that your attic won't be mistaken for a cave, cover any holes and repair any ripped screens. They only need a hole the size of a quarter to enter your house.
After the house is sealed up, consider placing a bathouse nearby. Bats are wonderful natural insect predators, and will consume mass quantities of mosquitoes and garden pests.
This time of year, bats are looking for a cave to settle down in for the winter. So that your attic won't be mistaken for a cave, cover any holes and repair any ripped screens. They only need a hole the size of a quarter to enter your house.
After the house is sealed up, consider placing a bathouse nearby. Bats are wonderful natural insect predators, and will consume mass quantities of mosquitoes and garden pests.
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