Anker SOLIX F2000 Solar Generator, 2048Wh Portable Power Station with LiFePO4 Batteries and 400W Solar Panel, GaNPrime Technology, 4 AC Outlets Up to 2400W for Home, Power Outages, Camping, and RVs

 https://amzn.to/45AXabe

GOOTOP Bug Zapper Outdoor Electric, Mosquito Zapper, Fly Traps, Fly Zapper, Mosquito Killer, 3 Prong Plug, 90-130V, ABS Plastic Outer (Black) Visit the GOOTOP Store

GOOTOP Bug Zapper Outdoor Electric, Mosquito Zapper, Fly Traps, Fly Zapper, Mosquito Killer, 3 Prong Plug, 90-130V, ABS Plastic Outer (Black)

https://amzn.to/3XEV8Vt

Poor Drainage?

 Creating Proper Drainage in a Floodplain

Managing water flow in a floodplain is crucial to prevent flooding and protect your property. Here are some effective methods for proper drainage:

1. Slope the Ground Away From the House:

   • Ensure that the ground around your house slopes away from the foundation.
   • Add soil to create a gentle slope, directing water away from the house.
   • Maintain a minimum of 4 inches between the slope and the bottom of the siding1.

2. Replace Hardscapes with Drainage Materials:

   • Concrete or asphalt surfaces can sometimes divert water toward the house.
   • Replace these hardscapes with crushed gravel or pea gravel to encourage even drainage1.

3. Install a Rain Barrel:

   • Collect rainwater from downspouts using a rain barrel.
   • Reconfigure downspouts to direct water into the barrel for later use in gardens1.

4. Add a Channel Drain:

   • If your driveway or walkway sends water in the wrong direction, install a channel drain.
   • Cut a narrow trench into the concrete or asphalt and place a long channel drain in it.
   • Redirect water away from the house or garage1.

5. Install a French Drain:

   • A French drain helps manage surface water across your lawn.
   • Dig a trench and lay perforated pipes surrounded by gravel.
   • Water flows into the pipes and is directed away from the floodplain1.

6. Green Infrastructure Practices:

   • Consider rain gardens, bioswales, and permeable pavements.
   • These enhance infiltration and help manage water runoff2.

7. Maintain Gutters and Downspouts:

   • Regularly clean and maintain gutters, downspouts, and splash pads.
   • Ensure rainwater flows away from your home’s foundation3.

Remember that a combination of these methods can significantly improve drainage in a floodplain, keeping your property dry and secure. 

Lemon Tree Blooms

 

Since the weather temps have turned cold, I brought my lemon and lime trees in to protect them.  As you can see the Lemon tree has sprouted blooms.

 

This one opened first and I can't wait to see if it will set fruit and support it.  It had many fruit set back in the summer, but a bad hail storm came along and knocked them all off.  So, since this time they are protected inside, maybe I'll get a few lemons before long.

Green House?

Done right, gardening can be one of the most satisfying hobbies you can ever have. It’s one of the best ways to interact with your earthly roots.  A basic greenhouse can function without having any electricity, but its scope can be greatly improved if you install a well functioning electrical system to it. This is definitely the case if you have any plans to grow tropical plants within your greenhouse. There are also many kinds of temperate plants that require protection from the winter cold, and therefore, having a proper electrical system in place is essential.  
This information was borrowed from the website, under the link in this post.  Check it out, for more information about greenhouses.

What's Left

 

Here you have all that's left of a once tall tree........salute!

At The Ground

 

Here he goes around the outside of the base, to cut it off at the ground.  Since it is mostly hollow, he used a smaller saw, to go around it.

The Final Blows

 

Down to the big trunk and it's officially "downed".

Down It Comes

 

Down to the last big limb, and then the base......

History Coming Down

 

150 years of tree coming down today.....

My Lilies

 

About 4 years ago, I took the bulbs that were left from a dead lily plant after the Easter season, had gone.  I planted it in a large flower pot.  The first year it came up but only grew the plant.

 

But the second year, the plant grew up large and bloomed, with the other shoot growing at the side.  Now, I have two plants that produce flowers, each year in May.  I noticed that other small shoots are coming through the soil, which means it will give me even more plants in the coming years, as long as it stays healthy.  

My New Grill/Smoker

 Friday when payday came around, he felt the need to get us a new Kingsford Charcoal Grill/Smoker.  Instead of being smart and buying one already put together, he reaches over and picks up one in a box.  As you can tell it was the wrong decision to make. 

Well, he finally took my advice to heart and read the instructions.  Really this was after he had already put the wrong size screw in a hole and got it stuck.  

 

Men can be so hard headed when they think they know how everything is done.   

 

Needless to say, the grill got the best of him today, and it will be tomorrow or the next day before it gets finished.  All the Dewalt's in the world can't help, when a man knows it all!

Aquatic Baths

High End Bathrooms in Minimalism Style

M

inimalism bathroom designs are characterized by a thoughtful restraint and clean lines, with modern tubs and faucet solutions. Not only is a minimalist design, aesthetically stunning, and adds value to your overall home décor, it also expresses class, elegance, sophistication and serenity that is customized to provide the ultimate spa-style bath for the homeowner. Minimalism bathroom designs are characterized by a thoughtful restraint and clean lines, with modern tubs and faucet solutions. Not only is a minimalist design, aesthetically stunning, and adds value to your overall home décor, it also expresses class, elegance, sophistication and serenity that is customized to provide the ultimate spa-style bath for the homeowner. 

Deep tub- back in fashion

Bathroom design trends come and go, though sometimes a few of the more appealing ones make their way back around. Freestanding deep luxury bathtubs are one such example. Where large, jetted bathtubs were a must-have for the master bathroom, deep soaking bathtubs are now back in demand. Soaking tubs are not only relaxing, but they're also simplistic and visually appealing. Freestanding acrylic tubs are easy to maintain, and serve as a comfortable bath for two.

Whirlpool vs air tub

Have you ever wondered about the difference between freestanding whirlpool bathtubs and freestanding air bathtubs? At first glance, they seem to be pretty much the same thing. However, there is a distinct difference; air bathtubs shoot streams of air, while whirlpool bathtubs shoot streams of water. You should consider this difference when deciding which high end bathtub is right for you.

Beautiful in Black – Why Your Bathroom Needs a Black Tub

Aquatica, being the leading provider of high end bathtubs, breaks to you the latest news in bathroom décor and styling. Brace yourselves ladies and gentleman; black is back in fashion. Yes your 2015 luxury bathroom makeover should include a black bathtub at least! Aquatica, being the leading provider of high end bathtubs, breaks to you the latest news in bathroom décor and styling. Brace yourselves ladies and gentleman; black is back in fashion. Yes your 2015 luxury bathroom makeover should include a black bathtub at least! 

Acrylic Bathtub – The Best Value for Price & Quality

Known for their lasting shine despite the wear and tear, freestanding acrylic bathtubs have been the number one choice for many homeowners. Compared to the sprayed-on fiberglass bathtubs, acrylic bathtubs are thicker, sturdier and durable and have a high value for money. With a strong cast acrylic base, these bathtubs are highly resistant to cracking and chipping and are built to withstand the test of time.

Corner Tub – Smart Way to Save Space in Your Bathroom

For most homeowners, bathrooms are the most important place in the house. Be it simply brushing and grooming, or sitting down and engaging in deep philosophical thoughts, a bathroom makes your morning shine.

Feel the Gentle Massage in Your Bath

Just imagine coming home from a long, tiring day at work or college to a nice and warm soak in a high-quality jetted freestanding bathtub, a freestanding whirlpool bathtub or any other deep freestanding tub. Can you think of any other way to shake off the weariness and exhaustion of the day, other than by simply lying in your bathtub and letting the warm water relax your body?

With a range of high quality and affordable bath solutions, you can now choose from a wide variety of options – all within your budget. Dwell in hydrotherapy and let water calm, comfort and untangle each and every muscle in your body and rejuvenate your body, mind and spirit. 

Which is better: Freestanding or Built-In Bathtubs?

Whirlpool tubs have no doubt changed the way people experience their bathrooms. Whirlpool built-in tubs and freestanding whirlppol bathtubs have both had their loyal followings over the years. Both have their advantages and drawbacks, so making the right choice is a matter of deciding on which best suits your needs.Whirlpool tubs have no doubt changed the way people experience their bathrooms. Whirlpool built-in tubs and freestanding whirlppol bathtubs have both had their loyal followings over the years. Both have their advantages and drawbacks, so making the right choice is a matter of deciding on which best suits your needs.

Take a Luxury Bath By Candlelight

Cast stone baths are great for candlelit bathing. Bathing by candlelight brings forth images of romance, calm, and relaxation. At one time, bathing by candle light was a necessity since electric lights were not yet invented. It's easy to imagine a vintage freestanding  tub surrounded by candles while someone washes up at the end of a long day. Despite the advent of modern electric lights, bathing in warm water by the soft glow of candle light has always had a sort of charming allure.

Add a Beautiful Sculpture to Your Bathroom With a Freestanding Luxury Bathtub

You've probably seen that scene in the movie when the billionaire opens the bathroom door to reveal a sprawling private room with endless mirrors and lighting, complete with a fountain in the center. Since not all of us have the square footage to make a museum out of our washroom, free standing tubs are the more practical option for adding an air of artistic luxury to a bathroom. They're functional as well as elegant, and you don't have to spend a small fortune to obtain one.

Buying a Bathtub Without Getting Soaked

Are you in the market for a new freestanding soaker tub? If so, then you have more considerations to think about than just your bathroom's color scheme. With so many modern bathtubs on the market, finding the right one for you might take a bit of research ahead of time. On the other hand, today's variety means that you're more likely to find a tub that fits your needs. 

Minimalism style in your bathroom

If gaudy, decadent contemporary tubs aren't for you, then the minimalist style might be just right for your taste. Minimal design emphasizes clean lines and a simplistic, uncluttered look that is utterly zen. Though high end bathtubs are usually associated with over-the-top style, the minimalist design of some of the best luxury bathtubs lends itself well to spa bathrooms.

Acrylic or EcoMarmor

The name ‘cast stone’ is taken from the manufacturing process, where the material is cast in a mold. Acrylic is a specialized polymer material for bathtub manufacturing.

Aquastone properties for bathroom

Advanced AquaStone™ Solid Surface is a homogeneous, polymer composite material applied in the manufacture of all new Aquatica stone bathtub models (from 2013). The main components are acrylic, modified polyester resin, and mineral filler (Aluminum Hydroxide).

Bathtub material choise: Stone or Acryl

We hope that our new infographic will help you to choose the material of your new bathtub.

Firewood

Buy Reviews

 

Here is just a few branches from the big tree that fell which we have broken up to put in the fire pit for kindling to build a fire.

As you can see, it will be a while before we can make a dent in the huge amount, since there has been a rain once too often in the last few weeks.  The summer heat is building and this means we won't be making any fires, for fear of it getting away from us and causing a problem.  There are too many forest fires in the summer because of the dry grass and weeds.  We wouldn't want to burn down our home  :(

Microfiber Cleaning Cloths

Light weight, with strength and durability are just  3 of the quality listing for these items.  I ran across a website which has a warehouse full of these  microfiber   products waiting for you to shop and buy at your convenience.  Not only do they offer  Microfiber Cleaning Cloths  to help with the basic cleaning needs.  They have towels, dairy towels, mops, brushes all located at their Chicago warehouse.  I noticed the towels they consider exactly what you would want to dry off after a shower.  Many of their items are also listed in their "clearance" page, which gives a great discounted price.  
The shipping is free on a order of $100 or more, making that a convenience which you can afford.  I suggest going to this website and look around at the  Microfiber Towels  and other items ready to be purchased.  Some of the sizes shown were 12" X 12" and 16" X 16" already boxed and ready for shipping.  Whether it be one towel are hundreds, they can get your order filled and to your address in no time.  If you are buying for a business or just stocking up for your home cleaning supplies, shop this website and save on all your orders.

VA Beach Pools

Finding a great pool company is sometimes a task in itself.  Making your home a comfort zone is something you want professionals to handle.  When making your home into the place you have for special moments, you will be looking to get the best quality for the price.  Outstanding service can be found in Virginia Beach, VA, when you shop at the  http://www.pools-vabeach.com/outdoor-living.html  website.  They are local to your area, they have the necessary products at lower prices and can give you quality that other companies can't.  Here's where shopping for your custom pool, ends.  Contacting one of their representative's for a quote will get your started on the summer's fun ahead of time.  They can show you the different styles, along with the accessories, and equipment for you pool.  Outdoor or indoor pools are the specialty this company can give.  Look no further than this website, to get the best quality in products and services.
This company can and will give you the one pool you've been wanting, and all you need to do is call, set up and appointment to get this project started.  Consider the fun you will have once your pool is complete!

Peaches

 

This was one of my peach trees, last year.  Our weather has been volatile this year, with warm and then cold spells, back and forth.  The trees have already started to bud for the coming spring and now we have another freezing cold front happening.  I'm afraid what will become of this year's crops with all this weather fluctuation.  The spring plants are subject to this problem, as well!

Money Out of Pocket

It's amazing the amount of money that can be spent on keeping up a yard and garden.  Last year I remember investing large amounts just to keep the yard in city code shape and clean.  It means that if you want to have a yard that keeps standard viewing, then you are going to spend money on it.
My vegetable garden cost quite a bit of cash as well.  This leaves me to think about down sizing the coming year.  I did the type of garden one is accustomed to having in the years prior to now.  Back then you had a huge garden with all types of vegetables to support the coming harvests.  Today, it's not feasible to have such a garden considering the things that just won't grow right in certain soils and the weather.  Certain soils take a large amount of mulch to get it in shape for planting seasons.  I'm one person who is not young anymore.  I have to pay people to come and do the heavy work for me.  Here in you have more expense. 
This coming year I am considering having raised beds that can be easier controlled.  The harvest will be less but I'm sure the area involved will produce better.

Roots

 

Back during Thanksgiving, I had an extra sweet potato that was too small to worry about peeling.

 

So, I put it in a glass of water on the window sill, and left it to root..  Recently, I notice these roots growing around the bottom of the potato.  I also can see some sprouts starting from one of the eye's.  Soon I will have slips that can be planted this spring.  I'm thinking of making a box, with compost in it to set them out.