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<title>Latest Articles by leedobbins</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/</link>
<description>Articles at Populate.NET</description>
<language>en-us</language>
<item>
<title>Let's Go On an Adventure Trip</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Recreation_and_Leisure/Travel/Destinations/let-s-go-on-an-adventure-trip.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Recreation_and_Leisure/Travel/Destinations/let-s-go-on-an-adventure-trip.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 16 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Thinking of going on a trip?  Why not try adventure travel?  You could be going on a vacation you'll never forget!  Adventure travel is an exciting way to spend your holidays with your family or friends and a great way to expand your horizons, meet new people, experience other cultures and learn new skills or  maybe even a new language.

There are dozens of choices for the kind of adventure travel that can fit your interests and that of your family.  Choose the adventure that will fit your hobbies and abilities or, if you're feeling exploratory, try out some new things.  Here are a few adventures categorized according to your enthusiasm level:

Relaxing Adventure Trips
1. Nature walks and hiking
2. Bird or animal watching
3. Saltwater and freshwater fishing
4. Cruises, Yachting
5. Culinary, Historical trips

Moderately Active
1. Going on a safari
2. Environmental exploration
3. Dude ranches and horseback riding
4. Digging for archeological artifacts
5. Swimming with marine animals or diving

Very Active 
1. Extreme sports (wakeboarding, skydiving, zero-gravity, bungee jumping, wind tunnel, flying)
2. Rock climbing, mountain climbing, ice climbing
3. Dog sledding
4. Touring/Mountain biking
5. Expeditions

There are dozens of adventure companies who specialize in travel adventure.  Go to their websites and check out their offerings.  Even your travel agent may have a department that offers adventure trips.  Ask for a brochure and talk to the sales person to discuss your choices.

Before going on a trip, here are a few reminders to make sure it's as smooth sailing and hassle-free as it should be:

- Talk to the adventure company and make sure you know what is in the adventure package so you know what to expect.  Ask the company or call up foreign embassies to inquire about visa requirements.

-  Bring your own first aid kits, prescription and emergency medication.  Most companies will provide first aid and some medical assistance, but it's best to have a kit handy.  And, since you're going on an adventure, the nearest pharmacy may be a dozen miles away.

-  Be sure to have photocopies of your important documents - passports, visas, identification, reference numbers, credit cards and the like.  Keep a set with you and leave another with somebody you can trust to fax it to you should you need it.  Have your documents scanned and save them in your email just in case you lose or misplace them.

-  Bring extra photos (passport size is good).  Some countries require photographs for documentation.

-  Check your travel insurance.

-  Get the addresses and contact information of your embassies in the country you're visiting.  

-  Get medical advice.  Ask your medical practitioner what you need to do to protect yourself.  You might need to have vaccine shots done a few weeks prior to your trip.  Inquire also what medical or health hazards you should watch out for in the particular area or country you are planning to visit.

-  Make sure that you are physically and emotionally ready for the kind of adventure that you signed up for.  If you have a fear of heights, then a hot air balloon will not be a good idea.  Sure, it's an adventure but scaring yourself is really unnecessary.

-  Read as much as you can about the country you're visiting - its people, customs and traditions.  Remember that when you visit a country, you are a foreigner there and as a sign of good will, why not show respect for certain traditions or customs by being aware of them and avoid offending anyone.

-  Pack lightly and bring the right kind of clothing.  Waterproof, sun-protected clothing with breathable fabrics are good ideas.  Pack also some essentials like a flashlight, sewing kit, toiletries, lighter, tape, safety pins, padlocks, all-in-one-knives and even plastic bags for extra containers.  

-  Be sure to bring the right kind of footwear.  Some of the best adventure trips have been ruined because of the wrong kind of shoes.  Besides, the type of shoes you need or your size may not be readily available in the country you're visiting.

-  Be sure to find a safe way to carry around your money and credit cards.  On trips, there is always a chance that you will spend more than you planned, so bring extra cash and keep it in a safe place.  During the trip, don't touch it unless absolutely necessary.  Make sure too that you have access to banks and ATMs just in case you run short.

Lastly, remember that even the best laid plans can suffer from glitches.  Don't expect too much and be flexible enough to fully enjoy your adventure while you're there.  No vacation is perfect, but with the right attitude and thirst for adventure, each trip will be as uniquely inspiring as it will be unforgettable. ]]></description>
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<title>10 things You Must Bring On Your Next Trip</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Recreation_and_Leisure/Travel/air-travel/10-things-you-must-bring-on-your-next-trip.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Recreation_and_Leisure/Travel/air-travel/10-things-you-must-bring-on-your-next-trip.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 16 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Traveling, whether it is for business or pleasure, can be a frustrating experience but it doesn't need to be.  You can help make your trip more enjoyable by being better prepared.  Here are 10 must haves that every traveler should never leave home without.

1.  Your Itinerary
 
Whether your trip will be filled with business meetings or tourist attractions you want to have an itinerary to make your days organized.  This way you can make all your arrangements ahead of time, and also an itinerary is great to leave back at home in case anyone needs to get in touch with you they will always know where you are.

2.  Your Personal Items

Let's face it, they're just some items you can't do without.  Your toothbrush, clean underwear and of course your wallet and money should always be kept up with you while you travel.  Have a little travel bag for your personal toiletries and other items that you don't want to leave in your luggage.  In addition, you should put a special place in your carry-on bag or purse for your tickets and passport so you don't have to fumble around for them and you know they're always close at hand.

Personal things such as the ticket, passport, toothbrush, clean underwear and money nearby preferably for easy accessibility.

3.  Your Clothes

Deciding what close to bring, can be challenging.  One thing you should do is check the weather forecast for the place that you're traveling to.  This way you can bring clothes that are appropriate for the weather.  You also want to bring clothes suitable for various occasions such as paint the dinners and shoes for walking.  When traveling, it's always a good idea to bring clothing that doesn't wrinkle easily and can be washed out in the sink. 

4.  Your Shoes

Whenever I travel, I have the hardest time deciding which used to bring.  If you are anything like me you probably have a ton of different pairs of shoes that you like to wear.  However, in order to conserve space in the suitcase, you have to narrow down your choices.  Bring a good pair of comfortable shoes, especially if you will be doing a lot of sightseeing, and also perhaps address the pair.  If your trip will involve sports like hiking and you want to consider the appropriate for wear for that.

5.  Medication

Of course, you'll need to bring any medications that you are on your trip but you also should bring any over-the-counter medicines they think you might need.  if you have allergies and you are traveling to a place that you think might trigger them then bring some allergy medicine.  If you will be outdoors a lot in the warm leather, you might consider insect repellent.

6.  Security

You want to make sure that your luggage is secure by locking it.  However, you might want to be sure to bring a spare key in case you lose the one that opens your case.

7.  Tote Bags

Bring a large tote bag with you on the trip, packed in a suitcase.  This bag can double as a tote when you are running around during the day and might be purchasing items.  And then you can use it as additional luggage on your trip home to house souvenirs.

8.  Know Where You Are Going

It's a good idea to map out your trip ahead of time especially if you have several spots you want to hit during vacation.  If you going to be traveling around in your own, It's a good idea to get a map of the area so that you don't get lost.

9.  Insurance

Sometimes, on a trip it's a lot easier to take public transportation but in some places that might not be convenient.  If you going to be renting a car you should make sure that you get insurance.  Before you leave with your car checked the car were carefully for any damage and make sure the clerk writes it down so that you do not get charged for.

10.  Tags And Labels

Does your suitcase look just like someone else's?  Chances are it does!  And that's why it's a good idea to have labels both on the outside and the inside of your luggage.  You might want to write only your name though, and not your address to be on the safe side.  If your luggage does get lost the airline will have your address and be able to return it to you, you might not want every stranger and airport to know where you live. ]]></description>
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<title>Golf Ball Comparison For The Average Golfer</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Recreation_and_Leisure/Sports/Golf/golf-ball-comparison-for-the-average-golfer.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Recreation_and_Leisure/Sports/Golf/golf-ball-comparison-for-the-average-golfer.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 16 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Golf, like most sports, is a game of precision and accuracy. In order to score a hole in one, you need the utmost concentration, and physical and mental strength. Furthermore, you need to match your skills and experience with your golfing accessories and equipment, particularly the golf ball.

For non-golf aficionados, one golf ball is the same as other golf balls. The only major difference such people may see between one ball from another is the manufacturer or brand name. In the eye of a golfer lover, however, golf balls differ in more ways than one.

If you want to improve your game, you need to pay attention to the type, covering material, core structure, and compression rates of a ball. You must bear in mind that your swing and level of play should be matched with the golf ball you use. Thus, you can't expect to be like Tiger Woods simply by buying and using the same golf accessories, shoes, and balls that he uses. 

Here are basic golf ball comparisons you need to know to help improve your golf games:

Common Golf Ball Types

Two-piece

If you are just starting to play golf, you most probably need to consider using the two-piece golf ball. This type of ball, aside from being the cheapest type available in the market, is aimed at providing great distance. If your swing is slow, the big rubber core of the ball helps in transferring the energy from the swing to the ball efficiently, thereby providing you with good distance.

If you are a neophyte in the game, you need to concentrate on your accuracy. Hence, you need a ball that will boost your distance, enabling you to concentrate more on building your accuracy. Once you have mastered consistency, then you need to try the other types of golf ball.

Three-piece

The three-piece ball is ideal for advanced players, who have pretty much mastered control, partly because a person wouldn't want to spend too much for a golf ball that will brandish his or her hit-and-miss swings. Such a ball, which is preferred by pro players, is composed of a core, which can be solid or made up of liquid or gel, a layer of wounded thread, and a plastic covering.

Materials used as golf ball coverings

Although there maybe other kinds of golf ball covering, the two most popular are the surlyn and balata.

Balata

Balata golf balls, which are usually three-piece balls, are made of soft covering. Professional golfers prefer such balls because they not only cuts and scuffs easily, but they are also easier to control. Furthermore, balata balls give more spin. However, these balls have shorter life span and are more expensive.

Surlyn

Surlyn balls are more apt for amateur gofers because they are cheaper. Most two-piece golf balls are made of surlyn, a hard material, thus it is more resistant to cuts and scuffs and provide more distance. Aside from being more inexpensive, such balls are also long lasting. However, it is harder to control and does not provide ample spin.

Compression rate

Traditionally, the tightness of the golf ball's thread windings determines its compression rate. Due to recent technological advancement, however, the compression rate of a golf ball is now basically dependent on how the ball is affected when it is hit. The compression rating of golf balls usually range from 70-110.

Low compression balls

Balls with compression rating of 70-80 are considered low compression balls. Such balls are soft and are easily deformed or compressed when hit. Players with slow swings are encouraged to use such ball.

Medium compression balls

Most advanced golfers prefer balls with a compression rate of 90. These medium compression balls provide both softness and ease of control. 

High compression balls

Golf balls with 100-110 compression rating are high compression balls. Such balls are hard and are less likely to deform upon impact, compared to those with lower compression rates. A high compression ball is ideal for those whose club head speeds are high.

Be keen in knowing how the type of ball or its compression rates affect your performance. Keep in mind that the knowledge of golf ball comparisons is handy in enhancing your strengths and masking your weaknesses in the golf course. ]]></description>
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<title>How to Build a Basketball Court In Your Own Yard</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Recreation_and_Leisure/Sports/Basketball/how-to-build-a-basketball-court-in-your-own-yard.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Recreation_and_Leisure/Sports/Basketball/how-to-build-a-basketball-court-in-your-own-yard.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 16 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Some people dream of becoming a doctor, a pilot, or a teacher while others dream of becoming a professional basketball player. If you are entertaining high hopes for yourself or your son in entering a professional league, you need to start practicing as early as possible and all the important basketball training in this world always start at the backyard.

There are two ways for you to build your own basketball court: you can do it from scratch or simply purchase a DIY basketball court kit.

Starting from Scratch
Skills - You need to have intermediate carpentry skills to successfully build your own basketball court from scratch. Firstly, you have to make sure that the ground you'll be building your basketball court on has a smooth even surface to prevent accidents and decrease the risk of injury. Secondly, you'll need to build your own basketball ring. Thirdly, you'll need to paint your own court lines.

Costs - It's possible that you'll enjoy lower costs when it comes to building your own basketball court from scratch. Most DIY basketball court kits include flooring, which would just be an unnecessary expense if you already have an appropriate floor surface for your basketball court. You can also choose your own materials for your basketball stand and ring and even painting materials and ensure that you'll pay less for them.

Production Time - Of course, building your own basketball court from scratch will take a longer time than it would with a DIY kit. This is because instead of simply having to assemble things only as is such the case with a DIY kit, it's entirely a different procedure when you're determined to build one from scratch.

Firstly, you'll have to take appropriate measurements. Secondly, you'll have to go shopping for the necessary materials and tools before you can finally get on to the building part.

Material Sources - You may have a difficult time procuring the required materials for your project especially if you're looking for things that are only sold wholesale in the market.

Using a DIY Basketball Court Kit
Model - Make sure that you're purchasing the correct DIY basketball court kit. Most DIY basketball court kits differ according to court dimensions and whether or not it adheres to NBA or collegiate standards or the likes. Check also if the kit is for half or full court models.

Skills - Basic or moderate building skills are all that's necessary to get your basketball court assembled. You will need however to read instructions carefully and thoroughly because the assembly process leaves no room for errors. Skipping a step can spell danger for you in the long run as it compromises the safety of your basketball court.

Cost - Expect to spend a small amount of money on a DIY basketball kit, although this is certainly money well spent because DIY kits include absolutely everything you need to make your basketball court entirely professional and fit for the NBA!

Tips on Installing Poles for Your Basketball Court
Whether you're building your own basketball court from scratch or using a DIY kit, you'll basically undergo the same process in properly installing your pole.

Firstly, you need to dig an appropriately sized hole for the foundation of your basketball pole. At least one foot and three inches of your basketball pole must be set underneath to ensure its stability. Once you've secured the pole's position, cover the hole with concrete. Make sure it's completely filled and doesn't have any air pockets. Afterwards, fill the pole with concrete as well. When that's done, check if the pole is plumb positioned accurately.

Important Measurements for Basketball Court Building
The NBA and NCAA are both using the same court dimensions: ninety-four feet in length and fifty feet in width. High school basketball courts use the same width but a shorter length at eighty-four feet. Junior high basketball courts are seventy-four feet in length and forty-two feet in width.

Regardless of whether you're using an NBA, NCAA, or Junior High basketball court, you should concentrate more on honing your son's skills in basic basketball skills like dribbling and shooting if you want him fully prepared for a professional basketball career. But most important of all is to ensure that you and your son have fun playing. Shoot for your dreams! ]]></description>
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<title>The Backgammon Board - More Than Just A Pretty Face</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Recreation_and_Leisure/Entertainment/Computer_Games/the-backgammon-board-more-than-just-a-pretty-face.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Recreation_and_Leisure/Entertainment/Computer_Games/the-backgammon-board-more-than-just-a-pretty-face.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 16 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Have you ever looked at a backgammon board and thought "What the heck"? To the beginning backgammon player, it can look completely foreign and slightly confusing, but it looks really nice does it not? Of course, there is more to backgammon that just a nice looking board. So, let's dissect the backgammon board and find out just what is what.

The first thing you need to do is open it of course, but I bet you already knew that! Here is what you should find:

-  Fifteen White Checkers
-  Fifteen Black Checkers
-  Two White Dice
-  Two Black Dice
-  Two Shakers
-  One Doubling Cube

Make sure you have everything, it is virtually impossible to play a proper game of backgammon, without the proper setup. Furthermore, depending on the game you have, the pieces may be of different colors and could possibly only come with one set of dice for you to share.

The backgammon board has a series of triangles, which are also referred to as points and there are twenty-four of them, and sections that are referred to as quadrants and there are four of these. It is necessary to count the points in order to place the checkers properly. 

The checkers are placed as followed, keep in mind that the first point is located at the bottom right hand corner, the last point will be at the upper right hand corner, this is according to wherever you and your partner is sitting:

The players place:

-  Two on point 24
-  Five on point 13
-  Three on point 8
-  Five on Point 6

Remember, the points are counted according to where you are sitting. Therefore, your number 24 point will be on the opposite side as your opponents 24 point. 

The doubling cube a tricky little thing and generally confusing to new players, is a dice that carries the numbers 2, 4, 18, 16, 32, and 64 on six sides. This cube is used for doubling whatever stakes are currently on the game, which may include losing some points. Generally, doubling cube is only used when money is at stake during game play. 

The backgammon board has a division bar, which separates the inner board from the outer board. The whole point of the game is to get your checkers into your side of the inner board, which will be the side nearest you. At the end, you will each have a section for holding your checkers. Once all of your checkers are in your section of the inner board, you will be able to "bear off" and remove them from the board, into your section to go for the win. ]]></description>
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<title>Using A Photo Room Divider For Decorative Appeal</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/interior-design/using-a-photo-room-divider-for-decorative-appeal.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/interior-design/using-a-photo-room-divider-for-decorative-appeal.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 16 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Photo room dividers have become a very popular in the past few years not only for their ability to section off rooms but also for the fact that they add a personal touch to your decor.  These dividers can be great ways to show off artwork and photos but many people do not know how to use them properly.  Proper placement and putting the right thing Into your photo room divider will make it be a focal point in the room instead of looking like an afterthought.

Photo room dividers can be bought in many different styles and types of wood to match almost any room.  When buying a room divider, you want to think about how It will enhance and complement your decor.  Make sure you buy one that is of good quality and sturdy and that will looked cheap in your home.  Before you purchase your room divider, you want to make sure that you have the proper place for it.  Typical spots for room dividers include corners, flat against the wall and, of course, separating a large space into two smaller spaces.  Once you have decided where you going to put it measure carefully to be sure you get the right size room divider for the area.

Types of Photos

Once you have your room divider in hand, you'll want to stock it a up with photos.  This is where many people go wrong.  You want your room divider to be a work of art, aesthetically pleasing and enhancing to your current decor.  Therefore, you don't want to fill it up with a bunch of mismatched photos in different colors and themes.  Instead, he should strive for one unified theme that goes with the decorating scheme you are ready now.  So if you have a modern decor, you might try all black-and-white photos that have an artsy look.  If your home is more tropical, you might try grouping a bunch of photos of flowers or palm trees and plants.  

Many people make the mistake of filling up with professional type photos of their family members and this really doesn't add to the decor at all.  Professional photos do not really do much to look at all.  The perfect fit is if you are a photographer yourself you can go out and take some great photos and fill your photo room divider with those.  When choosing your photos, try to keep the colors unified.

Placement of the Divider

Finding the perfect location for your room divider can be a challenge.  Try looking for areas that are begging for decoration.  One popular spot is in the quarter, you can place the room divider kitty cornered which softens up the square lines.  Another great place to put a divider is in a combination room such as a combination living room dining room would you place the divider and between the two rooms to section them off.

When placing your room divider, make sure that it's not too tippy.  You want to fold up the sections so that it is stable and be sure not to put it in a spot where traffic will always be hitting it.  You can always put your room divider pulled up behind a chair to add interest to a black wall or play some potted plants in the folds so it doesn't look so bear in front of the divider and this will also keep people from bumping Into it and knocking it over by mistake.

Room dividers can be great ways to add interest to boring decor and the best part is they are portable!  So you can take a photo room divider when you get sick of seeing it in the living room and move into your bedroom.  Either way, adding a photo room divider is sure to add unique interest to your home decor. ]]></description>
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<title>Sizzling Tips for Romantic Bedroom Decorating</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/interior-design/sizzling-tips-for-romantic-bedroom-decorating.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/interior-design/sizzling-tips-for-romantic-bedroom-decorating.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 16 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ A lot of couples go all over the world just to find a spot to rekindle the fire in their relationship. However, that romantic spot is not really very far - it can be right in your own home. With just a few tweaks and some props, you can turn your own bedroom into the love nest that you and your partner have long been looking for. 

Here are some exciting tips for romantic bedroom decorating:

1. Keep distraction away from your bedroom - there is nothing that could kill romance the way distraction does. Keep your bedroom impeccably clean - there should be no clutter, dust or anything that would disturb your romantic moments. As much as possible, the TV should be away or at least hidden. Keep clocks away from view among other things that you or your partner may keep looking at. 

2. Choose flooring that encourages a romantic atmosphere - if you can still change your flooring, choose something that elicits romantic responses. If you are getting carpet, try one with pastel or cream color to promote a sense of comfort and relaxation. Many people consider thick and fluffy carpets to be quite romantic, and that may also be a good idea for you. If this is too costly for you, you can just get an area rug, one with fluffy and comfortable materials. 

3. Add a sense of intoxication - install a small bar of good wine, preferably Champagne or other sparkling wine varieties with the appropriate wine glasses. You do not really have to keep a big cellar full of expensive vintage. A few bottles of good wine would be enough to spark up the mood. Just make it appear special, and just for the two of you. 

4. Keep the lighting romantic - you would want smooth, dim lights for your romantic bedroom. Bright and harsh lighting can definitely kill the mood unless you really like seeing everything during your intimate moments. If you can install dimmers, that would be a good choice. You may want to use halogen bulbs instead of incandescent lamps because they use up less energy. Use halogen bulbs to light, special places, and just use a dimmer if the light is too strong. 

5. Keep sweets in the room - if you and your partner have sweet tooth, you definitely can boost the romance by keeping some sweets in the room. Have candy handy, particularly those gourmet delights like truffles and pralines. Having cheap candy bars or bubble gum may be a turn-off so choose your sweets well. You may also want to keep strawberries with chocolate dip for more exotic tastes. 

6. Spark the fire of your love with candles - nothing can set a romantic scene the way candles can. Keep scented candles, ones with essences that both you and your partner like. Light them up if you want to start an intimate moment together. Just make sure to keep candles away from sheets, paper and other things that can ignite - accidental fire can definitely ruin any romantic moment. 

7. Set the mood with romantic music - romance is about pleasing the senses, and one of the most important senses to please is the sense of hearing. Collect CDs of you and your partners favorite love tunes. Preferably, choose tunes that do not have words as you would probably not want your romantic evening become sing-along night. Soothing classical or jazz music would probably work best. 

8. Indulge in your sense of touch - you would also want to keep your sense of touch by keeping items with nice textures. Change your normal sheets with luscious material such as silk. Keep soft and fluffy pillows to make the bed more inviting for you and your partner. 

9. Say it with flowers - the purpose of flowers as a tool for romance would never die. Exhibit your love with fresh and fragrant flowers. Roses are always the classic choice, but you can choose other blooms like carnations, lilies, and so on. Keep the bedroom looking and smelling fresh with flora. 

Decorating a romantic bedroom is not really as difficult as it seems. With a few things in mind and some key items, you can make any bedroom turn into a romantic abode. ]]></description>
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<title>Six Ideas For Decorating Kids Rooms</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/interior-design/six-ideas-for-decorating-kids-rooms.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/interior-design/six-ideas-for-decorating-kids-rooms.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 16 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ When it comes to decorating a kids room there is a different approach that should be used compared to that of decorating an adults.  It is preferable that the kid's room should reflect their own unique personality and not that of the parent.

For many kid's their room is the place where they read, play games, listen to music, display or hide those prized collections of bugs etc., that they have, as well as to day dream or just to be on their own.  So by using the six points below you will be able to decorate a kid's room that will make both of you happy.

1. Why not talk to your child first.  Find out what activities or games it is they particularly enjoy and what there favourite colours are then you can build the theme around their own unique personality.  It is vital that you work any interests they have into the room design as this will make them feel comfortable, happy and safe.

2. Allow your child to help with the decorating, especially relating to colours and materials for the room as well as how they would like to display any particular items that they have.  But it is important that the design should be flexible enough to be able to change with the child's every changing tastes, needs and desires.

3. Since most children use their bedrooms not just for sleeping, but for other things as well it is important if at all possible to set up several different zones within the room.  If at all possible allow for a play area and an area to be with their friends (equip it with a radio/CD player or TV/VCR) as well as an area where they can sit quietly and read.  You may even decide to put up a display area using either a wall or corkboard with their favourite photos and artwork on it and don't forget the all important shelving for them to display items that they have collected as well as trophies that they have won along with anything else they want to show off.

4. It is important to reduce the clutter in a child's room and you could do this by using shelving, large baskets (wicker ones), plastic see through boxes and have closets/wardrobes that have plenty of shelf and rack space inside.

5. When looking to decorate the windows keep the designs simple.  Use shades, blinds or short curtains and make sure the fabric is versatile and the designs complement other items in the room such as the bedding, lampshades etc.

6. It is important to include both a functional light (homework and reading) as well as a more soothing form of lighting.  If you need to include a nightlight especially for children who have problems with the dark and as a safety aspect, so that they can find their way easily to the bathroom during the night if they need to.

As you will soon see by allowing your child to have an opportunity to assist in the decoration of their room not only helps to display your youthful side but gives you the chance to do some family bonding with that child.  However, remember to have fun when decorating and even though the design that your child has chosen may seem strange, there are ways that you can reach a good compromise. ]]></description>
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<title>Kitchen Decorating For The Budget Conscious</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/interior-design/kitchen-decorating-for-the-budget-conscious.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/interior-design/kitchen-decorating-for-the-budget-conscious.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 16 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Are you sick of your boring kitchen but haven't got the money to spend on giving it a face lift?  Here are some budget minded kitchen decorating tips that might just do the trick. 

1. By purchasing a cheap wooden blind and some bright coloured paint you will soon have a colourful window.  Use a partially dry brush and then paint the blind randomly and this will soon give it that aged look.

2. The cheapest kitchen decorating idea of all is to use paint so why not paint your walls a bright sunny yellow colour and in a few random places paint over these with a much deeper yellow, peach or terra cotta colour.  Or if you want purchase some glazing liquid and before the paint dries wipe each coat with a wet cloth leaving the colour below showing through.

3. Instead of replacing the cabinets why not decorate them with paing by using a few a layers of different paints by applying with a dry brush.  For an added accent to the doors why not apply some pin strip tape (normally for cars) around the moldings of them.

4. To add a bit more of a country feel to your kitchen why not use a panel of fabric and with the use of hook and loop fastenings create a skirting around the cabinets under the counters.  This is a grest decorating idea for covering up not just your aging appliances (dishwasher, washing machine) but is also a great way of hiding those aging cabinets.

5. Look at those mismatched dishes and cups that you have tucked away at the back of the cupboard and use them to make a stylish shelf display. Another kitchen decorating trick is to use old plates or china tureen covers and hang them on the wall. 

6. Why not place some of your treasured family photos on a shelf or any little nooks in your kitchen.

7. The counter top is a huge part of the kitchen and can really make or break your decorating theme.  Why not think about removing the old surface and replacing with colourful mismatched tiles these can often be brought for little or nothing at many of the discount DIY stores around and should the surface of the counter top be uneven, get a piece of plywood to level it out prior to placing the tiles on top.

8. As for your electrical appliances such as refrigerators which have seen better days, why not go and get some chalkboard cut to size and glue directly on to the front.  Then you will have your own personal message centre close to hand, great place to write down what you need to get when you next go shopping and leaving messsages for yourloved ones like "Dinners in the oven".

As you can see decorating your kitchen need not break the bank and with just a little imagination and some hard work on your part you can turn the most boring kitchen into a warm and inviting place.  Even just painting the walls and hanging colourful curtains will make all the difference to a kitchen. ]]></description>
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<item>
<title>Kids Room Dividers Are Decorative And Practical</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/interior-design/kids-room-dividers-are-decorative-and-practical.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/interior-design/kids-room-dividers-are-decorative-and-practical.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 16 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ When decorating your kids room or child's playroom one element you might want to consider including is a kid's room divider.  Unlike room dividers for other rooms in the home, these ones are child sized and can perform many functions that are both decorative and practical.

Kids room dividers can be used to divide a large room or separate their play space from the sleeping space in their bedrooms.  You can use them in a child's room or in a playroom.  Setting up a kid's room divider in the corner can add interest and can also give you a little extra storage space behind the divider.

Room dividers for kids can have many functions, some for added storage, some for playtime and some for learning.  They come in plastic, vinyl or wood and  they are kid proofed with rounded edges and corners and many of them are on wheels and make them easy to move but a quite stable so that they will not tip and cause injury.

If you want to keep your child really busy, then consider an activity style room divider.  These room dividers consists of 3, 4 or 5 panels that give your child lots of space in each panel serves as a backdrop for interesting activities can include the velcro panels magnetic panels, member panels and even transparent panels with mesh on them.

If your kids love to write and draw, then you might consider the kids room divider that is made up of dry erase surfaces.  For young children there are vinyl room dividers that can have different decorative elements such as dinosaurs, people, and even ABC's for learning.  These room dividers are made with bright primary colors to keep things bright and interesting.   And babies can even get a room divider and formal playpen where the walls are activity boards for young ones.

If you want to add storage to the room a wheeled library book case divider might be perfect.  this one includes four double-sided shelves where you can display your books for easy selection.  you can also get one that has shells in a cupboard to further expand Its storage space.

For activity minded children, you might consider some specialty room dividers such as the market stall room divider which has been his that are perfect for storing toys, accounted for play time, and sits under a red awning just like the market stall or the puppet theater room divider that looks like, you guessed it, a puppet theater complete with curtains and a chalkboard marquee.

When choosing a children's room divider, you want to keep safety in mind.  picture in the room divider is solid so or over new child and at that there are no sharp edges or corners.

Incorporating a room divider into your child's room cannot only add to his playtime, it can also act as an educational tool and to storage and playtime with bookshelves whiteboards and easels.  dividing up large bedrooms or playrooms with these colorful and entertaining room dividers is a perfect way to add practical decor to your child's area. ]]></description>
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