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My daughter is excelling at college due to NDA. There are many wonderful things about NDA that cannot be put in a catalog or brochure... students develop into strong, confident women after attending NDA.
My daughter is a recent graduate of NDA and there are thing about the school that I liked and others that I did not like. I found that over the course of the 4 years that my daughter attended the school that she would be doing poorly and I would never hear from a teacher unless I made the call. Parent involvment is not encouraged. Some teachers had poor boundies at best. Alumni's daughters were treated much better than other girls. The AD plays favorites and everyone knows it. On the plus side, she did meet some good friends and she was much more involved in activities at NDA that in her prior school. Although my daughter loved the school, I think she would have done better in our public school, gotten into the same, if not better, colleges and I would have saved $. Ask a lot of questions before you send your daughter there, it is not the same NDA it was 20 years ago.
I absolutely hate this school. The principal, as well as most of the teachers, is rude and unqualified. This school has been a waste of time and money, please invest in a better school for a better future.
Notre Dame Academy. I thought it was wonderful for my daughter. An all-girls environment, and a wonderful school close to my home. But I was wrong. If you take my word for it, I made the worst mistake of my life. MY grandchildren will NOT be going here. The faculty could not have been less supportive. It is cheap education for a rich price. Invest your money else where, and get a better education else where as well. The teachers are unfair, the environment was horrible and I couldn't have sent my daughter to a worse school. Worcester is full of wonderful schools, but NDA isn't one of them. NDA, thank you for ruining my daughters future...
This school has a wonderful and open environment. The academics are challenging and creative.
We have a daughter (of course-it's an all girl school) whoh is in her first year at NDA. It is amazing to see how much she has grown in such a short time. Everything about this school seems to work towards students reaching their potential not only academically, but socially, spiritually, artistically, culturally. Particularly for young women, I think it's critical to promote the highest level of self esteem possible. NDA does that but the students maintain such a sense of humility. A GREAT school.
Notre Dame is an amazing school My sister and I both attended NDA, and we both have great memories and strong educations. I graduated in 2004 and went on to a competitive college in MA. I feel as though the preparation I received in high school could not be matched anywhere else. I am now a senior in college, and I realize that everything I learned at NDA has made college a breeze for me. I could not have made it without Notre Dame. My daughters will definitely be going here!
I currently attend NDA, I'm a sophomore. The faculty helps you get the best out of the four years you are there. I think it may cost a lot but it is definitely worth it. NDA with its great academics, also has a great athletics program. So, if your smart and athletic, you'll be perfect for our school. It maybe a small school environment but there is diversity and with the small classes the classes are more intimate. So I definitely would recommend NDA to any girl who asks.
I attend Notre Dame and I thoroughly enjoy it. they say that the high school years are your best, I would have to agree. Even though it is a small, all-girl school, it is still fun, challenging, and very spirited. Next year will be my final year of attending, and I know it will be my best. The faculty wants to help with getting you into a good school, they help alot with academics, and they are very supportive. This school has changed my life, that is why i recommend attending Notre Dame Academy.
My daughter loved this school. In eighth grade, she was very much against going to notre dame. She spent a 'shadow' day there and that changed her mind. This school is great for bolstering self esteem in girls. It is very expensive but i feel it was worth the money for the changes it made to my daughter. I urge you to encourage your daughter to go and spend the day before making her decision. My original opinion was a rich and 'clicky' school in which my daughter would be out of place but there was a place for her there and she thrived. We are low middle class people and were originally hesitant to send our daughter there. This school is not for everyone but fantastic for others. Our daughter was better off for attending notre dame academy and her acceptances for colleges were beyond our wildest hopes.
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425 Salisbury Street
Worcester, MA 01609
Phone: (508) 757-6200
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Auto-Tune the News
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The editing and video quality on this one is awesome! I like the music on some other Auto-Tune-The-News vids better but this was really slick.
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Ha. Social media St. Patrick's Day humor. http://t.co/GG21Pe2X9r
I like #geek humor. Well done #HBRTechnologies
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There are more questions about King America Finishing and the Ogeechee
River pollution problems.
Now the city of Savannah wants Chatham's legislative delegation to lobby
state environmental agencies to collect more water samples from the lower Ogeechee.
The city wants to find out if there are any
harmful effects from dumping in the river in the past and future.
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Bringing a little bit of Broadway to Texoma, Ardmore Little Theatre presents "Young Frankenstein."
Friday on Good Morning Texoma, Richard Stevenson and Brent Holland joined Lisanne for a sneak peak at the show that's sure to make you laugh.
Show times are Friday Feb. 28, 2014 at 7:00pm and Saturday March 1, 2014 at 7:00pm.
Call the Box Office at (580) 223-6387 for reservations Adults $15.00 and Students $8.00 at the Charles B. Goddard Center 401 First St., SW Ardmore, OK 73401
For more information: www.ardmorelittletheater.com


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Wrap Up: Dirk, Trix Lead Mavs by Sixers
The Dallas Mavericks (33-23) did exactly what they needed to do against the Philadelphia 76ers (15-41). After a disappointing fourth quarter against the Miami Heat in which LeBron James dismantled the Mavs, Dallas embarked on a three-game road trip.
How it went down:
Facing the second worst team in the NBA, Dallas needed to assert itself and dominate the 76ers. They also needed to take advantage of the fact Philadelphia only had eight players in uniform to start the game. They did just that as they defeated the 76ers 124-112. Dallas led wire-to-wire during the game and jumped out to a 21-23 lead after the first quarter.
Dirk Nowitzki did his best LeBron impersonation as he scored 14 points in the first quarter on 5-5 shooting, including a couple of three-pointers. The once 22-point lead for the Mavs was sliced down to seven at halftime thanks to Thaddeus Young and his 11 points in the second frame.
Dallas was able to keep the intensity up in the second-half as they pulled away and maintained their lead, even getting it up to as much as 20 in the second half. Perhaps another benefit of the blow-out win was the fact Dirk only played 27 minutes during the game.
Inside the Numbers:
Dallas has now swept the season series with Philly and has won 13 of their last 16 against the 76ers.
The loss was the 10th in a row for Philadelphia.
Dallas had a season-high in turnovers with 25. They did have 39 assists, which is the most in over a decade for the team.
Impact Play of the Game:
After cutting the lead to 77-73 in the third quarter, Dallas went on a 9-0 run to pull away for good on the hometown team.
Step-Up Mav of the Night: Shawn Marion
Shawn Marion finished the night 11-14 from the field with 22 points for the visiting Mavs.
"They wanted to make it a helter skelter game. We were able to overcome that and keep our composure."
– Shawn Marion
"We had an amazing start to the game. We were shooting the ball and getting layups, and then they started to trap us a little bit. We didn't really react well to their run-and-jump defense. I think we had 17 total turnovers in the first half, and that really kept them in the game or got them back into the game. And then we had to kind of grind it out from there. You've got to give them credit. They kept competing. When they were down 20, they sped the game up and turned us over. We didn't really respond well at the end of the first quarter and the whole second quarter."
– Dirk Nowitzki
On Deck:
The Mavs have a quick turnaround as they play the Detroit Pistons on Saturday. The game can be seen on FSSW locally at 6:30 p.m. CT.


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You are in... Forums > Ask an Expert > Technical > V star 1100oil filter
Mar 09
Posts: 21
trumpet675 says:
Hope someone can assist,have recently bought a v star 1100 believe def a USA import and just wondered if any one knows the correct part number so I can order one up online.local parts place near me not very helpfully unfortunately.its registered as a 61 plate but prob a couple of years old o miles on speedo when bought.
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Posts: 8919
jaffa90 says:
Is it the 1063cc engine ?
Jan 08
Posts: 7512
kcmc says:
Hi Trumpet675
Yamaha original part is 4X7-13440-90-00
That is very much appreciated,I'm assuming it's the right one as I understand it's. Tucked away on the right side and involves a bit of exhaust removal!anyhow I'll get on it soon thanks again to you both that replied to the post.
Same as the bulldog,
I thought mine was a pain on the gsx1400 with all the downpipes and oil cooler ones as well.
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How To Train Your Dragon 2 - teaser trailer
I hope the whole movie is just this. Or two hours of Hiccup taking his helmet off.
Don't even bother with dialog. Just let him ruffle his hair and let that little braid bounce.
and this is dangerous
It kinda got out of control and…I HAVE A LOT OF FEELINGS OKAY
AU; The glee characters on X-Factor
who gets your vote?
Another busy day tomorrow. Gotta sleep now. Good night loves.
Summary: Kurt was leaving and Blaine can't take it. It's up to Kurt's adorableness and creativity to make sure that Blaine cheers up while he's gone.
Word Count: 1,010
A/N: For Klaine Week 2012 Day 5! I wrote this in approximately 45 minutes. It just suddenly popped inside my head. Enjoy. :)
My chibi Nate drawing. I copied this from another drawing on the internet. Mine's lame though. And it just looks like he's missing an arm or something. HAHA. It's quite funny.
Uncharted. ^_^


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At what age can a child choose parent to live with?
I have a 7 yr old bright boy visiting wkends/50% of all hols etc by court order. My son is begining to ask to live with me, says: when mummy isn't going to tell me off i am the bested happy boy but if i think she will be angry i am the unhappiest criying boy ever. He comes to me and appologises 50 + times a day for like dropping a piece of paper or somesuch. He has since May 24th 2008 developed sycocamatic headahes. (Peaked at a 1000 per day)Today he accidently stapled his thumb! i took it out clean and phoned NHSdirect. all ok. The point is that during this time he was beging, really begging me not to tell his mum because [quote)she will be angry and tell me off. i can relate to this because i let her bully me, intimidate me over 4.5 years to the point she broke my health twice and more than once held a kitchen carving knife to my throught which was a little scarrry. I sought help from the courts who litterally crossed every t and dotted every i that i had asked for and then gave me more on top! how do i go about in a relaxed way to find out if it would be best for him to move him over to me. He is now to seeing a clinicle psycholgical peadetrition
Hi Roimatt
There isn't a set age at which a child can choose where to live. Some authorities estimate this to be around the age of 12, although it depends on the emotional maturity of the child and also whether one parent appears to be pressurising a child.
I am glad to hear that your son has the support of a paediatrician. It sounds as if he is not a happy boy and feels quite insecure.I understand that you have experience of his mother's erratic behaviour and are concerned for your son. The presence of "headaches" can be very real for him; his head hurts with the pain in his life.
Of course you can have recourse to the courts, when CAFCASS would speak to all of you individually, including your son and then they would make a recommendation. Would your boy's mother consent to going to Family Mediation with you so that you can discuss your concerns with her in a neutral atmosphere? That would be less confrontational than court. How about contacting his school to see if they have any concerns? Can you speak with the paediatrician yourself?
Hi roimatt, thanks for your response Louise, I was just thinking that you could get in touch with the Children's Legal Centre http://www.childrenslegalcentre.com have a look at their website, there are some telephone helpline numbers too.
Good Luck, let us know any progression.
Hi roimatt, thanks for your response Louise, I was just thinking that you could get in touch with the Children's Legal Centre http://www.childrenslegalcentre.com have a look at their website, there are some telephone helpline numbers too.
Good Luck, let us know any progression.
My daughter was 8 when she decided to live with me. Her mother had left us. she also decided that she no longer wanted to see her mother.
Her mother made no attempt to see her again. Ray
My daughter is 10 and since beginnings 2010 she has been asked to move in with me.
She claims that she feels lonely and unsupported at her mums.
I have been trying to make my daughter aware of her choice and what can come from it, not only because of changes in the way she is used to live but from her mums part as well.
knowing my ex-wife she will cut any relations with our daughter and I am affraid that my daughter will realise how hard that can be.
I have also a feeling that this is brought from underlining problems that my daughter is affraid to talk or doesnt feel confortable to talk about it.
At the same time I am making sure that don't matter her choice my house is and will always be 'our house'.
I don't know how I can have someone unbias to speak with my daughter and have a clear picture of what is happening and advise her so that way does not come from me.
any suggestions?
Hello fernhill
Welcome and thank you for sharing your story.
The bottom line is that whilst there is no strict guidance in English law, I see that you live in Scotland, where the law is more clearly defined and says that once a child is 12, their views will be sought and will be very significant when a court decides where a child will live.
However, it sounds as if this is not all your question. You say that you fear that if your daughter lives with you, her mum will cut all contact, why do you think this would happen?
You are also wondering whether your daughter's desire to live with you stems from problems she is having at her mum's house, that she wants to get away from. You are right, it is important to find this out. Are you able to have any sort of civilised communication with your ex-wife? If so you could invite her to a meeting, possibly with a mediator (see here for mediator list)
If there is no possiblity of this, you need to do some further detective work. Get in touch with your daughter's school and ask to see the teacher or head of year and express your concerns and see what they say. They will probably have a Listener or Counselling service there and could encourage your daughter to see someone and get her issues into the open.
If you decide to go ahead with full time care of your daughter then it will probably mean going to court, but then the court officers will listen to your daughter's wishes. I just think it is worth getting to the bottom of it all first. You have quite rightly talked with your daughter about the implications of her living with you. Young people often think the grass is greener on the other side fo the fence and just want to get away (it might even be as simple as she thinks you will be less strict with her or she will get more freedom while you are out at work). Having said that, you need to make sure that nothing is threatening her safety where she lives at the moment.
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The phrase "You are what you eat" has developed into something much more complex than just your favorite CrossFit junkie's personal anti-gluten mantra.
When residing in a refugee camp along the Congolese border, Charles Alexander London met an orphan who asked to be adopted. The boy was 15, an eager reader, and picked on often. London was only 21 at the time.
Andaming biyaya sa mga lalake lately," this guy said, referring to the leaked nude celebrity photos (both locally and abroad) that have been circulating the web.
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In the age of Generation Me, Me, Me and #OOTD blogging, is there room for the reflective youth-driven online magazine? The five publications we rounded up this week sure think so. And as they tell us about the highs and lows of complete independence, we watch a new movement prepare to take flight.
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At first we thought modern technology had already made everything possible for us when McDonald's online delivery became a thing. You gotta admit, after that, everything else that followed was simply a nice bonus.
It's hard to be young. For one, most of us haven't really figured out what we want to do yet. There are so many things we can become and what scares most of us is we don't know if it's the right path to tread.
One auspicious Saturday last August, the Internet went nuts.
Australian electronic band Cut/Copy is no stranger to touring.


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Business Description:DuluxGroup Limited (DLX) is a manufacturer and marketer of branded products, mainly in coatings, home improvement, and garden care markets. DLX has four main segments namely Paints Australia, Paints New Zealand, Selleys Yates and Offshore. The operations are conducted in Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, South East Asia and China.
Strategy Analysis:DLX's strategy to protect and expand the market leading positions occupied by many of its brands in Australia and New Zealand. DLX´s focus is primarily on the premium end of the decorative paints and coatings market, ensuring a level of resilience during periods of weaker economic conditions. The acquisition of Alesco adds leverage to a recovery in new housing. The company has built an extensive distribution network of retail outlets through strong relationships with key players in the hardware and supermarket sectors.
DuluxGroup reported NPAT down 4% to $89.49m for the year ended 30 September 2012. Revenues from ordinary activities were $1.07bn, up 7% from last year. Diluted EPS was 24.3 cents compared to 25.7 cents last year. Net operating cash flow was $116.53m compared to $85.44m last year. The final dividend declared was 8.0 cents, taking the full year dividend to 15.5 cents compared with 15.0 cents last year. On 30 April 2012, the group acquired 19.96% of the shares in Alesco Corporation for a cash consideration of $37.6m. The interest was acquired preceding the group's off-market takeover offer for the remaining shares in Alesco announced on 1 May 2012. Transaction costs of $3.6m associated with this takeover offer are included in the results of the group for the financial year ended 30 September 2012. These costs are primarily related to consulting and legal fees.
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12 Things Every Home Should Have
Every home should be different, expressing the individuality and personality of the owner in its own way, but I believe there are a few things that every home should have. These are essentials, classics and key ingredients that make up the foundation of a good home, and if you are just starting out they make a useful checklist for setting up in a new space. Could you add to this list? You sure could, but 12 is a nice even number for the purposes of this post.
Aluminum push pins: Push pins are super useful throughout the home and work well when trying to attach or hang anything from sheetrock, cork or wood. Aluminum ones are easier on the fingers and don't break (I actually use mine to hang all of the small art on my walls, as they are strong enough and don't require me getting out a hammer).
All-Natural Cleaning Products: At this point in the evolution of our planet, there is no reason why any cleaning product in a home - from dish soap to glass cleaner to tile scrub - shouldn't be natural and earth friendly. Even bleach whiteners for clothes and tubs can now be replaced. I like Seventh Generation and Caldrea.
One Set of Flannel sheets: You don't need them for most of the year, but when it gets this cold they become your best friend. I get mine at The Company Store.
A Landing Strip: I don't consider a home complete unless it has an area near the front door - it can be tiny - that acts as a "landing strip" where you can hang your coat and drop your keys and mail when you walk in. A full landing strip has a landing surface, mirror, pin board, wastepaper basket and coat hooks. Here's a video about it.
Real napkins: I switched to real cloth napkins at home years ago and wash them each week. They're softer on the face, less wasteful and add a really nice splash of style to your kitchen and dining room. Want to do make your own? I've been hemming fat quarters (fabric meant for quilting) to make my own and it's really cheap to do it this way. I get mine from Purl.
3 Lights in Every Room: I find that most homes I visit are underlit. They can be lovely to look at, but they're dark and filled with shadows. I'm convinced that most people don't notice this about their own home as they get used to it. The simple solution is to make sure that you have at least three points of light in EVERY room and that you turn them on when you're home.
Dimmers: This is a simple install whether you own or rent. Dimmers allow you to shift your light and dramatically transform your space with your existing light fixtures. Light control is crucial to making a beautiful space.
A Good Vacuum: Cleaning is essential to a comfortable home and being able to easily, and happily vacuum makes sure that it stays that way - particularly with pets. I love my Dyson vacuum, but others swear by Miele.
Art @ 57": Most people hang their art too high and do different heights in different rooms (or even the same room). When I see this it makes be deeply uncomfortable as it makes it hard to enjoy the art and the wall it's hanging on. The easy rule of thumb is to hang all of your art at 57" on center - meaning the center of every piece is at 57". Here are more instructions on this.
Candles at Meals: While certainly not necessary, I have found it a great and simple ritual to light a candle at meals (even breakfast). There is something very ceremonial and calming about accompanying the meals of the day with a wam and flickering flame. Children really like it and it helps them to stay focused at the table. I use beeswax candles as they burn a lot cleaner and smell like honey.
Mat Knife & Scissors: I find that I need this almost every day from opening packages to cutting off labels to prepping flowers. I like my Tajima utility knife and my Fiskars scissors.
A Plant & Fresh flowers: I've always advocated for having fresh flowers in your home as part of a weekly routine (it's also part of our January Cure) as I find they bring an indescribable liveliness and beauty to an interior, regardless of its chic-ness or fashionability.
Plants, whether indoor or outdoor, are a part of this as well. Right now I have a small lemon tree in my living room that I am taking care of and working on growing big. It's an easy way of keeping me in touch with nature, even with the temperature near zero.
(Image credits: Adrienne Breaux)
131 Comments
This is a great & practical list. I just bought a miele and it's changed my cleaning life. Up next are dimmers. And you're right - aluminum push pins... huge difference. Not sure where I can use them though.
Maybe I just chafe at lists of must-haves, but as with everything in life, these all depend on context! I loved my flannel sheets when I lived in a drafty old Rhode Island house, but now that I'm in a pre-war building in New York, it's never cold enough to use them. Ditto the pushpins, which might be great for sheetrock but are fairly useless for concrete block walls...
great post
I totally agree!!
I can't have plants or flowers, because one of my cats is a plant hunter. There is no place I can put it where she can't get it. Any suggestions?
I personally like my clear push pins. I agree . . . many people hang art too high. I have one piece that is a little high but I am using an existing hanger and when I alternate my art, I need this hanger for a larger piece so I use it for both pieces. But I am off to find a tape measure to see how well I did hanging everything else!! I no longer have handles on our table. After a cat caught her tail on fire from a lit candle, the candles had to go. I allow my cats free rein so it is not practical to have candles.
Some really helpful info. The only one i can't get on board with is the cloth napkins. The thought of having to wash them every week is not cool.
For all natural cleaning products I have repurposed and old container into a shaker and filled it with baking soda and have a spray bottle of vinegar. It is my go to cleaning solution for everything from spilled juice to the occasional pet mess to cleaning the occasional burnt cooking experiment from my glass top stove. It eliminates odor, lifts stains and has yet to fail against anything my 2 year old daughter and my 60lb pitbull can throw at me. Plus its safe for the baby and the pooch.
I agree that lighting is important, but please don't waste energy by leaving them on in rooms not in use.
"I not use beeswax candles as they burn a lot cleaner and smell like honey." -- I think you mean you DO use beeswax candles?
mjlb - Fixed and sorry about that!
This is a nice article, with good tips. Many chefs point out that scented candles take away from a meal, and any candles on the table should be odor-less - but I agree it totally enchances the feel of the dinner. Thanks!
Different people, different homes need different things...we aren't all the same.
I thought that the new light bulbs don't work with dimmer switches?
Hmmm... definitely some things to think about, but I wouldn't say that they're all foundations of a good home.
What a wonderful, practical list.
A good friend swears one of the secrets behind his massive nest egg: "No paper towels or napkins". I've tried it for a few years, and I have to admit – it really does add up. (Wish I'd started sooner.)
Using cloth napkins might, at first, seem fancy – but it turns out to be pretty practical. Tossing them into a 'matching' load of laundry is no big deal. When they get shabby, I add them to my stack of worn out washcloths – and use them in place of paper towels.
For 'fancy' dinners, I've been using the same white waffle-weave cotton 'bar' towels for over a decade. Just hit them with a little bleach or hydrogen peroxide a few times a year. Easy as pie. (And I think people like knowing that they can actually USE them – versus those teflon coated dressy versions.) Kind of fun to dress up at the holidays, too.
An extra THANK YOU!!! for writing about lighting. Having just one light source – especially if it's a ceiling mounted light – can really suck the life out of a room. To me, it's the number one way to improve any space.
And I couldn't agree more about dimmers. Rooms looks nicer, we look nicer – and it saves a few $, too.
Great post!
Some will. From what I understand, manufacturers are printing that info on the box now. At least, that's what I read on line. I have a stock pile of the old bulbs that I am using with dimmers for now.
Dimmers don't work with flourescent lights -- including compact flourescents.
So...now that incandescents are going away, what do you suggest replace it?
(I happen to hate flourescent by the way, so color me bitter.)
Alice, what would she do with a spiky cactus?
Great hints!
Art at 57" even with super high ceilings? We just moved into a loft with 23 foot ceilings, so we're trying to figure out where things look best.
We have basic white cloth napkins purchased years ago from Williams-Sonoma that we never use, so now is a good time to break them out of the storage bin!
Have you tried a cactus? I have 4 cats that all like to graze on my plants, but they leave the cactus alone (although sometimes I suspect they are brushing themselves with it). I also use wall-mounted pots that keep my pothos out of reach and double as art.
Rouguinne, old style dimmers won't work with CFL or LED bulbs, but there are dimmers made for those. You also need to see if your CFL and LED bulbs are dimmable, as some are not.
Our 6 year old son loves to be in charge of pulling the candle out and making sure we lit it for eating dinner every night... a bit too romantic for me, but I'll go with it to make him eat everything on his plate :-)
Nice list overall, though of course it's up to each person's specifics.
My specific deviations:
**I live alone, so having 3 points of light going in each room is really nutty and a waste of $$, unless I have company. As I said to a relative who was amazed by the size of the much-loved junior 1BR I lived in for years before I bought a condo: "How many places can I be in at one time? I'm only one person." (Hah.)
**Art display: I'm super-short (just under 5 feet tall), so dagnabbit, I'm hanging my art to work for my height (or maybe a compromise level between my height and average folks). I use a step-ladder enough in the kitchen; I don't want to use one to look at my art ;)
**Flannel sheets: Ditto to what Ruby Mae said about the heat capture. If you tend to sleep warm as I do, avoid these like the plague. You'll feel as though you're doing a dry-sauna treatment. (I avoid most memory-foam products for the same reason.)
I have to admit I might be a rude and uncouth rogue, since I don't use napkins during most meals. Never got into the habit with them.
I like most on the list, especially the 3 light recommendation, but I'm not keen on pushpins at all. Its the combo of poor quality message boards and loose pushpins combined with bare feet. I like to use a magnetic whiteboard and I make my own magnets with neodinium magnets and epoxy them to cheap and small Ikea drawer knobs. Able to hold about 10 sheets of paper no problem.
Landing strips are junky looking. Yea, I said it. ;)
Mike in Hawaii, we don't really use napkins either- unless we have company.
I really enjoy this list, but I do have to say something.. As far as plants go, there aren't a lot that i would be comfortable having around our cats. Our *four* cats, that is. So we have fake plants. It's not ideal but it gives us the look of plants, makes us happy and doesn't hurt our cats. We don't get the benefits of real plants, but we don't get the negatives either. :)
we have old stucco walls, so i always hire an art installer to hang framed pieces of art. I was dying to know... so i measured all the pieces he hung, and they are ALL exactly at 57" in the center (unless i had him do it differently). very cool tip!
Uh.. this is so so basic. But every home should have a fire extinguisher. Basic, I said. But a must! (esp with candles...)
Wow...I do all!
I agree. Hate landing strips. Junky.
Overall kind of an odd list--push pins? Really? Flannel sheets? Candles AND dimmers AND multiple light sources--at some point shouldn't we have some other priorities other than lighting? I've tried the 57" thing and think it's awkward.
Oh well.
I got a flowering crown of thorns so that my chompy kitty would be deterred. She is not.
Why in the world would I need push pins?
And yes, I agree with dccymbal: fire extinguisher. One per floor if you have more than one level in your house.
I think the landing strip is a perfectly sensible idea in most apartments. It isn't so much in a house. I don't even use my front door as my primary entrance. I come in the back where the car is parked. I leave coats and outdoor shoes there. I wear good shoes inside after using the scraper and also bring my bags upstairs. Then I go to the front door and get mail which gets sorted immediately into three piles. I haven't settled on a place to leave my purse and briefcase but it certainly isn't in the basement.
Cloth napkins are the best. I think the trick is to not spend a lot of money on them so you don't worry about getting them dirty.
No pushpin art in my house. It's all on earthquake proof hangers. And I am moving away from paper in general. Evernote is my friend.
For the people with kitties, try putting clove oil around the plants.
push pins as must haves? when there are so many options that wouldn't leave holes in your walls not to mention concrete walls and plaster walls. not to mention why would I want to hang things with push pins.
things that you need, landing strip, fire extinguisher, erasable message boards either electronic or physical
As for the art, my ceilings are 15 feet high. Art at 57 would be crazy. How you hang real art is as important as the piece. Following some standard set or photographs is crazy.
I'm on a personal mission to rid the world of the LANDING STRIP!! So messy, and all of those items most likely have more appropriate resting places, anyway.
@Alice P Have you considered installing a shallow shelf in front of a window? Try a google image search for ideas.
You could also just buy plants that are pet friendly. My cats don't normally eat my plants (even though I only have cat safe ones in the house) but occasionally I'll bring a plant home and they'll nibble here and there for a few weeks and then get bored with it.
Terrariums are good for that - you can put moss and ferns in a closed environment and have the green you want in a way your kitty can't get to it! Moss and ferns are good for areas with poor light, and succulents are fantastic for closed terrariums in sunlight.
OK, flannel sheets in the cold are an overnight luxury you should try if you haven't. How about a small plant under a glass dome for the sake of the kitties? Spend some time with thrift store prototype lighting to see improvement where the sun goes down before 5pm. Because of the energy costs I am thrilled with LEDs, am experimenting with different looks and can't wait til all my cfl's are used up. Using lots of dish towels and sponges instead of paper. A few push pins around could be handy in unexpected ways. I like the way a few candles take the chill off in the winter, there is nothing better, I guess, except a fireplace. I keep pairs of stick vacuums so I can swap out the filters in the middle of a job. I would tack on a light sensitive LED night light.
My cat eats anything remotely plant-based (jerk ate all my kale seedlings one year) so I hang everything. Everything's hanging away from a potential launch pad, or they crowd the tops of our highest bookshelves. So far, so good.
Though occasionally he'll climb to my shoulders and try to get at 'em.
They showed some nice ones on this site especially those with small spaces. I love the hook I hang my keys on. I got it at a museum shop and the heart shape in black metal looks beautiful against the small area of wall next to my door. But to just put up some makeshift landing strip....that does look junky.
I have terrible allergies, but I've been able to vacuum without issue since buying my Miele w/ a HEPA filter a year ago. I love it! I can even set it on a low setting and vacuum my plants.
Real napkins.....I don't think so unless I had a washer/dryer in my apartment. I hate going to the laundry room especially since it's not attached to my building and I have to walk through the back alley. But I am lucky enough to have a site within my building. Others have to schlep to a Laundromat.
During this extreme cold spell, I have been debating if I should get a pair of flannel sheets. My friends swear by them. But after reading some of the comments, I do tend to throw my covers off and on during sleep because I am either overheated or cold. I cannot regulate the heat in my apartment. So I think I will pass on this.
re: messy landing strip. The only thing I've really accomplished (sadly) with the Jan Cure is this. I cleaned out the top drawer of a small chest of drawers by the driveway door. True, I drop all my junk there on arrival, but once I'm in (cats petted and fed, etc) I go back and put the stuff (hats, gloves, scarves) in the drawer, hang the coat, deal with mail, put other stuff away. So far, the landing strip is working.
I really like that colorful artwork in the photo. Any idea where it came from? Probably too expensive for me.
Out of the list I have 3 of them.
And out of those three my own must have is the Landing Strip (though I hope there is another name of it). It's a mirror with a small ledge and some hooks I got at Target and I love it. Each day I put my cap (Army) and keys on the hooks. Able to give myself a once look over before I leave my apartment. The main thing with the 'landing strip' is to keep it organized and uncluttered since it's one of the first things you see when you enter the home, so the only items I ever keep on the ledge is a pair of sunglasses which I use daily and a small vase with a fake flower on the side for looks. Simple and clean. ;)
Cat guardians: How about cat grass? Not as pretty as a houseplant,but it's kind of like having a tiny patch of lawn in your home,and it's meant for cats to eat. Or a nontoxic,animal-safe plant. (Btw,I have a cat,too,so I get it.)
We tried a barrel cactus that filled the pot right to the edge. Unfortunately, there was just enough room between the bottom of the cactus and the pot that our cat could get his paws in there in spite of the fairly long spines & scoop out the dirt. Don't know why he scooped out the dirt. Never used it to do his business, but just left little piles of dirt all around the pot.
Pushpins? Come on! The last time I used a pushpin was in college for my dorm posters. I can't believe this was one of only twelve things on this list.
I have a vintage wood hall tree as my landing strip by the front door.
It is not wide but a slim 2 feet, about 7 feet tall, painted mahogany color.
It has 2 antique brass double hooks (with ceramic tips) on each side for coats, scarves, and hats, slots for umbrellas (the tall ones before the collapsable ones were invented), a place for two pairs of tall boots, and a small tray like shelf in the middle for keys, change, gloves, etc. Top half of the vertical length is a piece of mirror to check appearance before stepping out.
I have to say that I love it. The best $45 I spent on a Craigslist find.
I have very few of these and don't feel the need for the rest. Nothing to push pins into in my house, I live in Southern CA so flannel sheets are unnecessary, my place isn't big enough to need 3 lights in every room and I have cats (e.g. No candles). I'll give you the need for a good vacuum for the same reason I won't light candles (cats).
Three sources of light in every room and all turned on the moment you get home?
That's a terrible waste of energy. Are you concerned about the impact on the environment at all???
Has anyone said anything about the vacumn!!!? Honestly I cannot afford either one. Sad but true.....up for suggestions, oh, and donations!!!!..lol
My list of must-haves would include a few more practical items. Instead of flannel sheets, a landing strip, dimmers and fresh flowers, I think most homes would benefit from having a reliable transistor radio (with extra batteries, stored separately) , some candles for emergencies and basic first-aid and tool kits. I also agree about the fire extinguisher.
And while using all-natural cleaning products sounds good (and has value), it's only one very small piece of a much larger puzzle. There's also the matter of *how*, how *much*, *what* and *why* we consume.
any ideas on the media stand in the photo, looking for something really long and low
sharpknife's list (which posted while I was leaving my comment) is even better than mine. All very good things to have around. I would also add a good lighter, some canned goods, a can-opener and bottled water or water purification tablets. And a secret stash of small bills - mostly ones and a few fives tucked away somewhere.
It might also be a good idea to have water-proof, fire-resistant storage for important documents.
Pretty much all LED and incandescent bulbs, even the new 40-100W bulbs are dimmable as these new bulbs use a halogen light source inside the classic bulb now. All other more decorative, and 3 way bulbs are the classic, tried and true incandescent bulbs we've known for decades.
Some CFL are dimmable, but I've found not all of them do dim well though, and generally that info is on the package so you know if you can, or can not dim them (assuming one actually reads the printing on the package).
I like Sharpknife's suggestions. I'd add soap and clean towels to the list. I don't care how well-styled your home and tasty the meal, if those are missing then so am I. The candle thing is sweet in that people enjoy a ritual but certainly not a must.
It is 80 degrees out right now. No thank you on the flannel sheets. We have dimmers in almost every room of the house - never use them. I agree on the good vacuum.
I love seeing articles like this because there's always something I can take away (I've forgotten how nice it is to light unscented candles with dinner) and things I can relate too (cl
I love see articles like this because there's always something I can take away (I've forgotten how nice it is to ligh unscented candles with dinner) and things I can relate too (cloth napkins - reuse the same one several times before washing and it doesn't add much to your laundry). But I usually open these articles to see the awesome additions from commenters, apparently not today, too much negatively and criticism. How about just adding yo
I like and have most of these already, but I just hang my art at whatever height I please ;)
My own must have list:
1. Small tool kit (hammer, wrench, screwdrivers)
2. Smoke Detectors
3. Fire extinguisher
4. Portable radio
5. Flash Light
6. Warm Blankets
7. Matches
8. A good knife
9. A good hiding place for cash
10. Cats
Other 'MUST' haves ;)
1. Frebreeze (sp)
2. Computer with net connection
3. More cats
4. Comfy PJs
5. Wine
Our dimmer switches used to be functional...one is apparently defective and the other won't work with the new light bulbs we have. (There are some dimmable options among the newer, efficient bulbs, but not for the type we have.)
I totally agree about enough light sources, but I don't necessarily think 3 is the magic number. My living room has a patio door, 3 large fluorescent wall sconces, and a bright lamp, and it still feels like a cave sometimes.
Flannel sheets: I wouldn't say it was life-changing, but we absolutely love ours. Though it makes it harder to get out of bed in the morning.
@sharpknife: I think your list is better. :)
Throw them in with the towels. Doing laundry is not cool no matter what you need to wash but I don't recommend throwing an outfit out after only one wear to avoid an uncool chore.
I love to have cats. I cannot afford a $600.00 deposit for each one either.
I also have an antique hall tree, complete with a lift up bench top for the storage of hats, scarves, gloves, etc. The Victorians usually had grander halls and entryways, but you can still find smaller pieces to fit more modest spaces. Mine is about 34 " at the widest part. It may not be modern or even mid-century modern, but the idea of a "landing strip" has been around for a long time.
The hanging of art is a tricky thing. We have picture moulding, and I have never heard a good rule of thumb for measuring wire or fishing line to have the picture hang at the right place. I was never good at math. Also, unlike most art galleries, there is placement relating to furniture to factor into the equation.
If you have to walk to do laundry just throw in some cloth napkins. You don't need a lot, and it will not cost any more to wash them with what you had to drag out of your place.
Love the list except for the push pins (goofy), and a landing strip that would tend to be messy!( I like to see beauty walking into my house)
I believe in at least one plant in every room...I love ficus trees because they are easy to take care of and beautiful....and clean the air besides.
Flannel sheets are good for the winter, and I live in California.
I buy my napkins at Ikea, but use cloth ones also.
Dimmers are so great....hardly changed a light in 15 years because of them!
Love candles, especially in the fall and winter!
I don't actually remember the last time I used push pins, but I do consider natural cleaning & reusable cloths important. I don't burn my beeswax unless I need to, but my Himalayan salt lamp casts a pretty pink glow during dinner.
On dimmers: I just replaced the incandescent bulbs that finally burnt out in my recessed ceiling lighting with dimmable CFLs. They work exactly the same... I just looked for bulbs that said "dimmable" on the package. The ones I bought are made by Philips.
The only problem with the 57" rule is that you sometimes need to work with furniture and architectural features at different heights... I have pictures hung above my bed that I would consider too high if there were nothing underneath them, but it also looks better to have them there than to have an empty wall above the bed.
@sharpknife - What laundry settings do you use? I pretty much throw everything (except for really nice clothes that I might be more careful about) into the wash on cold, and have had few mishaps.
I never understand it when people comment on art being "too high". It's good to know that there is a standard height (I assume, based on how galleries hang art) if one cares about such things. But if not, hang your art where you want.
I agree that art should be centered at 57, but becoming "deeply uncomfortable" if art is not perfectly placed while you are a guest in someone else's home is really pathetic and awkward. I don't want to be taking "must have" home advice from someone who becomes unhinged when art is not at the correct height on someone else's wall.
Miele vacuum!! I have bought many vacuums in my life only to be broken in about 2-3 years. then I gave up and splurged on $500 and it's the best investment I've made for home...sitll works great and so light!
Watermelon Peperomia was the first plan I was able to safely integrate into my plant-devouring, multi-cat household.
It's safe for cats who eat it, easy to care for (water and occasional fertilizer), puts up with my poor lighting conditions, and while my cats DID chew on it, it took the abuse with dignity. It isn't the prettiest plant out there, but it's pretty enough and gave me a chance to discourage the cat from eating plants without having to watch the plant die in the process.
They still chew on plants...but not nearly as much as before. Especially since I try to keep some "cat grass" on hand most of the time.
My new alternative to the landing strip is a shelf dedicated to the same purpose in our linen closet off the living room. There is an inbox, a place for coupons, and a pretty wood bowl of office/mailing supplies. As long as we open and deal with our mail right away it works great. I agree that I don't want this stuff to be visible because we want a more minimal uncluttered look.
For those who'd prefer a more "practical" list, I hear you, but...this is a decorating and lifestyle blog, no?
Still not down with the 57" rule for artwork. Sorry. I think the "conscientious eyeball" method is best. It all depends on the piece(s), the room, what else is going on, etc. I collect vintage decorating books, and it's funny to see how the "rules" change over time, then change back.
I live in Miami, so substitute linen for flannel...but for the same reason, essentially. Nothing is better at keeping me comfy all night.
No room in our house for a landing strip. We somehow get by using the hall closet to hang coats and store shoes. Tragically, we must put our mail and keys on the dining table.
I don't think this list was intended as a survival guide but more as a suggestion on some items that might give daily life within the home a little lift. I always have fresh flowers (they don't have to be a huge bouquet or super expensive), use cloth napkins at every meal along with cloth dish towels and washcloths - really people, the entire lot might add up to the volume of one pair of trousers in the wash.
I also love lighting and the ambiance it creates, but as you can only exist in one room at a time and for the sake of the environment, please only one room at a time.
Candles are wonderful and underused in my opinion, never a day goes by without them, whether it's traditional tapers at the table, tealights in low glass votives while watching tv, or my new allas single candleholder from iittala on the nightstand (I'm totally in love with it).
All in all everything on the list makes perfect sense to me, except for the push pins. I just don't get the push pins.
Push pins. Well, I'm sure we have them somewhere amongst office supplies, but they're certainty not essential. We used them to hang balloons from our ceiling in our first place during college though.
All-natural cleaning products.... It's pretty easy to slap 'Earth Friendly' on a product in most countries and not have to back it up, so make sure you read the bottles and understand what you're buying. "Natural" products come with a lot of hype. The sentiment is a good one though.
Three lights in every room. No. I'm sorry, but no. In some rooms, sure. Maybe even more than three, but in others, no. It depends on the size of the room, the size/direction of the windows, the size/position of the lights, what the room is used for, etc. There is no rule for this.
Dimmers. Only if you're going to use them. I'd never use a dimmer in my kitchen.
A good vacuum. Only if someone else buys me one.
Art @ 57". Surely that depends on the art, height of the ceilings, and height of the home owners? I think art in kids' rooms should be hung at the height they'll enjoy it at and art in our bedroom should be hung at the height we'll enjoy it at. The rest of the house is a mix. If our guests are made deeply uncomfortable by this... we should stop inviting them over...
Candles at meals. Absolutely pass on this one. Why would I intentionally lower my indoor air quality? If you're for earth friendly cleaning products and reducing use of consumable napkins, candles seem kind of silly.
I'll give you the flannel sheets, cloth napkins, scissors, and house plants though - those are essential items in our home.
hanging plants?
Good suggestions. I'd love to have plants but my cat chews any plants or flowers that come into the apartment. A terrarium is a good idea. I sleep on merino wool sheets year round, they keep me warm in winter, cool in summer and they aren't scratchy. Cotton and flannel sheets don't work for me. I don't have any art on my walls so the 57" test, push pins and mat knife aren't relevant to my life.
Just don't light a candle at breakfast and forget it in the rush to get to work.
Some good ideas but please don't encourage people to burn candles especially around children! You bet they like them, they love to watch the flame. We all do but candles cause more house fires than you would believe. I live in a wood frame Victorian in Brooklyn and have seen several house fires here. Not using candles is such an easy way to prevent fires & keep your family safe. I have battery operated candles that give a warm glow & are safe. I like the pushpins though:)
Alice, my cats like leafy plants, but don't like the taste of succulents or strong herbs (just check the type first to make sure they're cat safe)... Also putting them on a shelf that only has room for the plant, or a shelf that is so shallow or full of items on its surface that the cat has no place to jump up and "land". Or a plant in a hanging basket. Another option is having a plant around that your cat can nibble on (like cat grass or other grass) because they have an instinct to eat that and leave your other less tasty plants alone. Good luck!
tip for washing soiled cloth napkins, collect in plastic bucket, soak in hot water & prewash by hand with Dawn dishwashing soap, it cuts out the oil and the solid food (we have 2 kiddos), then wash in machine (cold water), dry outside (sun disinfects, whereas dryer permanently bakes in any residual stains), a little extra work but gets rid of the sludge, our HE washer would only redistribute it all over our clothes
hmmm...what was the question?
My 12 "must haves"
-well-stocked kitchen with plenty of ingredients, ready meals on hand
-library (books, movies, and music)
-2 sofas that face each other (enough room for the 4 of us)
-kids' art on walls
-chair to sit on for putting shoes on near door
-coat rack(s) also
-down pillows and comforters
-freshly washed floors
-neatly organized craft materials, plenty of paper
-wardrobe in different sizes (hope springs eternal)
-container or community garden
-clotheslines outside
I agree with some of the items on the list but some items are definitely upon taste and others (flannel sheets) would be an unlikely buy for someone who lives in a warm climate year round.
I'm going to repeat this every time I see it on AT: The 57" rule is complete and utter bullsh*t!! I'm an artist, former framer, living with another framer and have art covering my walls. THERE ARE NO RULES. Art hung at 57" makes no sense for larger works, or homes with high ceilings (talk about making a room look small or under decorated) or rooms with, you know, people who like to have furniture. People don't live in galleries. You want to help people see the art? Frame with museum/archival glass or plexi that cuts down on glare. Really wish you guys would get over this bizarre "always 57"!" idea.
As for the rest, better to call it, "My Personal Favorites" than "Things Everyone Should Have." I especially love the self-righteous indignation on the "natural" cleaners, followed by "x3 lights in every room, and all turned on!" Way to save the planeeeet!
Given a choice between cats and plants, I choose plants.
In the War of the Landing Strip, I would fight for a hall closet. (Seriously, it's one of the first things I look for in a home. A house without one was not designed by a sensible architect.) No need to put your coat on a hook if you can hang it up. Also I have outfitted the interior door of mine with a board for notes and a calendar, big envelopes for coupons and take-out menus, and hooks for keys. I have a small chest of drawers in the entryway. Above it hangs an antique mirror and on top I have two African baskets with lids I can use to stash and cover anything small I bring in the house. Its drawers are used for a quick place to stash the mail. Bills and letters in the top drawer, magazines and fliers I actually want to read in the second drawer. "Throw-away-immediately" mail is carried into the kitchen and dropped in the recycle bin. Which is also where white paper napkins and white "pick-a-size" paper towels go ... although I do enjoy fabric napkins and use them whenever possible. Usually with unscented candles.
I'm kind of a lamp freak, so you never have to worry about my house being under-lit. I am, however, dedicated to turning OFF the lamps when I am not in the room. Ditto for electronics.
"How many places can I be in at one time? I'm only one person."
Yes, thank you! That is exactly what I am thinking when I see singles or couples without kids in their 2000sqft 3BR places here at AT.
With all due respect, I have tried pretty much every "natural" or "eco-friendly" dish soap on the market, and they are all rubbish. You end up using four times as much to get things remotely clean. They do not cut grease AT ALL. I am back to Palmolive for life.
Also I live in Canada and I've never had a need for flannel sheets. Y'all are weak down there. KIDDING! ;-)
*** A note to the cat owners - speaking as someone who has successfully raised plants and cats together for years now. Cats NEED the chlorophyll that comes in plants. They don't get it in commercial foods. And if you raise indoor cats they can't nibble on the lawn. BUT you CAN, very easily, grow ordinary grass seed in a small container of dirt. Even now in winter, it will sprout on a windowsill in about 3 or 4 days.
Growing greens specifically for your cat to eat will almost always save your plants. I keep the grass by their food dishes so they know it's theirs. Bonus: if you grow it in a NICE container, then it looks a bit like a decorative plant. :-)
*** A note to the cat owners - speaking as someone who has successfully raised plants and cats together for years now. Cats NEED the chlorophyll that comes in plants. They don't get it in commercial foods. And if you raise indoor cats they can't nibble on the lawn. BUT you CAN, very easily, grow ordinary grass seed in a small container of dirt. Even now in winter, it will sprout on a windowsill in about 3 or 4 days.
Growing greens specifically for your cat to eat will almost always save your plants. I keep the grass by their food dishes so they know it's theirs. Bonus: if you grow it in a NICE container, then it looks a bit like a decorative plant. :-)
Thank you, textiles! And once again, LOL on the constant preachiness on the "landing strip"... I would straight out fire any decorator I hired who used that term ;)
Did you make or buy your dish soap? Do you rinse off your plate/pan after you're done with it? I can't imagine why you'd have to cut through grease. I rinse off and scrub with my fingers and a little soap (if needed) after I'm done using them, and by the time I'm ready to wash the whole lot, my dishes aren't ever in need of industrial strength soap.
I use a bar cart for my landing strip. Surprisingly handy!
I hate real napkins: I find the idea of reusing the same somewhat dirty napkin from the previous meal slightly disgusting.
My thoughts:
Every home is individual; do what you want...
Decorate and hang art however the heck you please; number of lighting sources needs to be to YOUR own liking. Same for dimmers! You are the only one who needs to enjoy your home. There are no "shoulds"...
For me, a clean home is a sexy home... I bought my vaccuum on sale ($49.99) and it works great with multiple pets. I use natural cleaners and stuff like vinegar and baking soda whenever possible. BUT, a lot of the eco dish and laundry detergents flat out are useless (and expensive). How about just doing the best you can?
I love plants and fresh flowers (but am limited by pets potentially eating them - wish so many were not toxic to them)!
A landing strip is not realistic for many homes. Hang your stuff up on a hook or a closet, put your keys in your bag or in a little bowl in a place of your choosing and put your mail where you pay bills, recycle the mail you don't need. This is not rocket science.
Candles? Lovely, but be careful with kids, pets, and forgetting them. One of the biggest causes of fires, especially in urban areas. My father retired as Chief of Dept. for the NYFD, so I know this to be true!
Good books and music make me happy!
Keep lots of good food, wine and champagne in. I also like to have great teas and coffee, seltzer and mineral water... Party on ;)
I got a real kick out of your list. I've been married for 33 years and have only ever had maybe 4 things on the list - good vacuum, landing strip, natural cleaning products & houseplants (which I don't feel are essential but are nice to have), and I've never missed any of the 8 things I don't have. Your list definitely gave me something to think about. What are my personal essentials for my home? I definitely agree with the vacuum, and I would add, a tool kit, WD-40, duct tape and crazy glue (because you can fix ANYTHING with those 2 items), and all of the stuff on sharpknife's list. I personally would add a cast iron frying pan for the versatility, and some good kitchen knives are really useful. For all of the commenters who mentioned candles as being dangerous or bad, you can always buy a candle warmer. Plug it in, put the (jar) candle on it and get the scent of the candle without the flame.
I think that the large number of negative comments is due to the preachy tone of the article. I felt like someone was wagging his finger at me. It's hard to embrace even good ideas when you feel judged. Plus, push pins are really inane. I can't take the list seriously when push pins are at the top of a must have list!
Ahhh, the ever controversial landing strip. While I would never call it that, I do have a convenient place that I always put my stuff as soon as I walk in the door. It really helps in the morning to know exactly where my purse, keys, phone, etc. are without searching.
For at least twenty years I have used fabric napkins and towels in the kitchen. A roll of paper towels lasts me forever. For everyday napkins I buy the cheap wash cloths that are sold in a bundle at discount stores. I also buy the bundled bar towels for ebety day use. When company comes, I break out the nice cloth napkins and towels. I've never had a problem with transferring stains in the wash, and I don't find it to be burdensome to add them to the weekly laundry.
I don't have any place to put fresh flowers because every horizontal surface in my house is already covered in plants. lol!
Billiesue, Preachy is the word! Unfortunately seems to be the tone of every post lately. If you disagree with AT usually your post gets deleted!
MaryHS, I agree - I hate the new lightbulbs! I have stockpiled a couple of hundred dollars worth of the OLD candescent lightbulbs !
I agree with @sharpknife's list.
Cheap napkins, especially if you have children, are bandannas from craft stores. I have some that must be 20 years old (at least) and they are still in very good shape. I wash them with the towels, lay them in a stack on top of the dryer, smooth them out, and they are dry in a couple of hours. They come In all kinds of patterns and colours so each child can pick their own. When dinner is over, each child folds their napkin and leaves it at their place at the table. Easy peasy. I have some my children used that my great grandchildren are now usingl
I don't see how anything on this list is essential. I happen to have a good vac, and I use nice cloth napkins when I entertain, but if I didn't have those things, it wouldn't materially undermine my life. I never use candles -- don't like scents and don't like soot and my cats would bat at them and get burned. I have a good eye for art installations (once worked in an art museum) and I have things at a lot of heights, often lower than 57 on center, if that ties the work into a vignette. Etc. I guess my observation is just that there is nothing "imperative" about this list, it's just things the poster happens to value. Which is fine except for the misleading headline.
agree with the idea that buying "natural" brand cleaners is a waste-white vinegar, ammonia, baking soda, etc are cheaper and work just as well as caldrea and other brands in fancy bottles.
Regarding enough light... isn't it some sort of sleep/health recommendation to follow the cues of the day, and not jack yourself up with brightness at all hours? I purposely keep my house softly lit in the evening because I think it helps my little ones ease into bedtime. I also like the cozy feel of it when you do it with pretty lamps.
I have to agree, that if I had to come up with a list of twelve "must have" items, several of these things wouldn't make it. Push-pins? I do like the multiple light sources, and may take you up on that one.
I'm another bohemian non-napkin-using Neanderthal. (Can one be bohemian and Neaderthal at the same time?)
I have all wood floors and area rugs. A good broom and dustpan works great, with an occasional damp-mop to keep things shiny. No need for a vacuum, except in the summer, when the flies get bad. Then it makes a kick-a$$ fly-sucking-vortex-of-death machine.
Something new that nobody else has on their lists: A pull-out trash can under the kitchen sink. For the past twenty-some years I've had to put up with family members tossing trash under the sink and maybe hitting the container most of the time. We've now had this for about a month: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002XD08Y/ref=oh_details_o01_s00_i02?ie=UTF8&psc=1 and I can't tell you how much happiness it has brought to me knowing that I don't need to scrape trash out of the cabinet for the rest of my life. Yes, it was a huge indulgence. I joked to my husband that we must be rich because we own a sixty dollar trash can!
Great for an advertisement posing as an article. This is so absolutely ridiculous, pretentious and pompous. Do you people realize that there are millions in our society who can't afford to put food on their tables? Apartment Therapy is becoming incredibly out-of-touch with the average household.
thank you, thank you, thank you........I feel the same exact way. I felt cheated of my time after reading it.
I can see where most items might be a "should have" but for the most part, I would say that they are suggestions.
As to the proper hanging of art at 57"; I would also say that it is a suggestion, as most places that hang art at 57" are galleries and art museums. As a suggestion; it is a good one but as individuals; art will be hung where it is most pleasing to the owner, not guests.
Maxwell's list is pretty much NYC, small apt., high income (to afford the rents/ownership) few occupants who are artsy or crafty and possibly few windows.
Thus the pushpins, cloth napkins, plenty of lighting with dimmer options and the $$ green cleaners (to possibly help the earth a smidgen against the millions of consumers living in the city). Landing strip; I like the idea and have one, but it isn't the dumping ground as Maxwell wants. Candles, plants; fine, whatever. Cutting mat & dollar store snap off utility knife; I do have and do find useful. So, it is his list of his important things. Fine.
One thing no one mentioned. a Brita (water filter system) vs Americans spending $$$ on bottled water; While some do get recycled, plenty get tossed and become earth litter. Also, in most of the country, are we really that spoiled and sensitive that tap water isn't good enough?!
Glad your system works for you, fauxfaux. Perhaps we just achieve different results because we have different water or different cleanliness standards, or perhaps we just have a different idea of how much soap one should need in order to properly clean a sink full of dirty dishes. Maybe I just eat more meat and butter than you. Basically it sounds like you are washing your dishes twice, so maybe I am just lazier. (Although when I use eco dishsoaps, I also have to wash my dishes twice - at least.) No way to measure these things without a face-to-face wash-a-thon.
Regardless of the reason, eco dishsoaps do not work for me, and I'm pretty sure it's not because I don't know how to wash dishes. I'm definitely not the only person I know who has reached this conclusion. I am poor and I can't afford to keep experimenting with soaps that cost more and do less.
Dude, meat and butter are an everyday for me, for every meal, so my guess is we both have to deal with the same butter issues. And, what? You think I use ecosoap cause it's trendy? No. I use it because I'm poor and this stretches my load by some smallish, but significant (to me) cents. You're probably right, the "pre-wash" is what seals the deal for me. After I started learning to cook, I forced myself to become accustomed to washing up every time. It's much easier to clean a warm pan than a cold one. I end up rotating the same pots and pans a LOT, and I had about 13 years of dishwashing experience before I started doing that. As it turns out, doing something for so long does end up making you an expert at it, as far as one can be a dishwashing expert. Usually all I need is a drop of soap for each pot or pan, and maybe some vinegar spray. That's enough to clear off all the gunk to be acceptable for reuse, or to really sterilize those suckers in the dishwasher. I don't really know much about water hardness but I use Dr. Bronner's since no other homemades have worked as well for me. I say all this not to critique your dishwashing technique but because, for whatever reason, other people may not know what the heck to do when standing in front of a sink full of dirty dishes, or how to do it, or what to do it with. And I know what it feels like when people use the "in" language while talking about something you want to learn about, and you feel clueless. Ecosoap may not work for you, but even using butter and meat (often) this one does for me, and if it works for someone else, all the better.
Fair enough on the dishwashing experience. I do know a lot about eco soaps in general. I do post-tenant clean up and renovations for a living and we use eco cleaners for all but the worst jobs. It just doesn't work for my dishes. It could indeed be because we have very hard water in my community, since I've heard the same thing from many friends - that eco dishsoap is almost useless and requires wasteful use of the products.
I had a tenant of my own who used Dr. Bronner's and to be honest, I thought it was awful and smelled weird.
It really hasn't been a big deal for me. I wash my sheets and towels every week, and the napkins just go in with them, so it's no extra work.
I moved into a former photographer's studio and found tons of those very heavy duty steel pushpins....in different sizes. Have them on hand for almost any hanging project. They can be found at any art supply store (a true art supply not craft so much) and hold up to a hammer. I also found at a flea market cards of thumbtacks that were made in the 1950s. They cost me 25 cents and the printed price was 10 cents. They can also handle a hammer without bending. Always look for old office and sewing supplies. So worth it.
I have to say, I am literally laughing out loud at all the cat comments. I never thought there would be a category where my dog could qualify as easier to keep than a cat...but at least she doesn't eat my plants! (She tries to eat plenty of other things to make up for it, I guess...)
I keep pushpins because I brought them with me from previous living spaces, but our current apartment has brick, cinderblock, and fieldstone walls so they're pretty useless. Also we have maybe 7' ceilings, so we hang artwork (mounted by a hammer drill) accordingly.
I am, however, quite ok with my "list of essentials" not lining up perfectly with Maxwell's. Different strokes!
The recommendation of frequent candle lighting made me cringe. Candlelight is beautiful, but, wow, what an invitation to a home disaster. One moment of forgetfulness.... I have sets of flameless LED candles that are awesome. They're made of wax (beeswax, even) and the bulb has a gentle flicker to it, but they're battery operated. My set has a remote control and timer settings. They sound tacky (at least they did to me when I first heard of them), but they totally rock the party.
Also, I might agree with the three-sources-of-light thing for a special occasion with company, but for everyday ... rooms not in use are kept dark, and occupied rooms use only the light source required for the task (trying to be gentle here, but how can one recommend eco-friendly products in one paragraph, and then an irresponsible usage of electricity in the next?)
Having a hard and fast rule on height works if you have no furniture anywhere near the art and the art all has similar proportions. Additionally, having art at differing levels can help break up a room into separate spaces which is common in apartments.
I'm 5'8" and 57 inches (4'9") is nearly a foot under my eye level so I'd literally be looking down my nose at most things. This also means I'd probably skim right over any smaller pieces. Also, I'm the shrimp of my family, with a brother who is just shy of 7 feet. 57" would have him literally bending over to get a proper look. 57" may work for you, but this advice would have been better written as "pick a consistent height for the center of your artwork".
Also, pushpins? I just don't get it.
Sorry, no pushpins here. Our essentials also include a roll of blue painter's tape and a sharpie marker. We label EVERYTHING around here.
Maxwell's essentials seem focused on style - I'm a much more practical sort myself. Also, for us, home must include animals, currently a Golden Retriever and a 20-year old orange tabby cat.
And books, Maxwell, where are the books? We couldn't live in a home without books! And a window over the sink. Only two of my ten residences have lacked one, and I'll never be without one now.
In regards to cats and plants, I love both and STILL sometimes forget to look a plant's toxicity up before bringing it home. I try to keep all plants out of reach, because it defeats the aesthetic purpose if the plant is all chewed up, safe or not. We have had some success with keeping the smaller plants crammed onto a shelf with no room for a kitty to stand. The most toxic ones are in the room they're not allowed in at all. Cat grass is a big help, but it doesn't solve everything. Thorns are a big deterrent, but I wouldn't count on that if the plant is toxic on its own (as everything related to a crown of thorns appears to be). The cats have never touched the spiky key lime tree, though. In fact, we decorated that for Christmas, and all the ornaments were safe, too!
I also use cloth napkins and I try also to avoid paper towels. I use for nearly everthing the KRAMA washcloth from IKEA. For one-use towel, for cleaning the bathroom or the kitchen and everyting else in the house. Yes, and as a washcloth.
I think there are now about hundred in my house but it makes no work to take some to every hot laundry. And it saves a lot of money.
A bit belated -- but buy plants that are fine for the cats to eat and replace them when they look too ragged? We have wheatgrass for our cats, and when it gets too brown or stubby we just buy more.
I have this same problem with my two kittens - I find this is curbed a bit when I provide wheatgrass next to their food bowl to help satisfy their plant cravings, but it's still an issue (and they tear that wheatgrass to pieces.) I have managed to keep a hanging plant alive because it is just out of their reach.. but they have their eye on it.
Oops, didn't read the rest of the comments, everyone already said this. Never mind! :)
I have only one of those things. I regret nothing.


text:
They stake their reputation on their fried chicken, serving 10,000 pieces weekly. It takes a few minutes, since each batch is made to order. Ron's also serves chicken 18 other ways, including pizza chicken quesadillas and chicken livers in gravy. It's all about the chicken here, but that's not all they have. The menu is five solid pages of stuff good enough to be called specialties: Oktoberfest sauerbraten, Black Angus cheeseburgers, fried whitefish on rye, hot bacon slaw, lemon meringue pie (homemade, of course), and the best Saratoga chips this side of Saratoga.
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text: The Kikori River is a river in southern Papua New Guinea on the island of New Guinea. The river is about 320 kilometers (200 mi) long and flows southeast into the Gulf of Papua, with its delta at the head of the gulf. The settlement of Kikori lies on the delta.