Hansons Windows

Green and Bear It

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 19:44:00 +0000

As you probably know, the movement to "green," as it pertains to the environment and how we go about our daily business in it, has been gaining momentum over the past several years.

But there's one aspect of going green that most of us have been practicing for many years, if not decades: recycling.

We're so used to it nowadays. The recycling container gets put out along with the trash on a weekly basis. Inside are all kinds of plastic, glass, paper and various types of metal.

Yet there may still be some confusion as to what is and is not accepted by the recycling centers, along with wondering how to better organize and even increase your recycling efforts at home.

Hansons Windows shares with you some AWESOME tips on household recycling, courtesy of CountryHome.com.

Go Green!

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Sort and store: Save drink holders to corral used cans and bottles. Wrap newspapers with twine and then simply stack them. Plastic lids and caps are generally made of a different material than their containers and need to be sorted separately.

Practical placement: Collect used household batteries to take to local drop-offs. Reuse shredded papers as packing material. Gather old phone books and magazines in a wire bin.

The hang-up: Keep a towel handy to wipe up spills. Scissors are useful for cutting twine or breaking down boxes. Post a recycling guide for quick reference. And don’t forget a hook for your reusable grocery bag.

Divide and conquer: Store items that may contain liquid in solid bins to prevent sticky messes. Sort plastic and cardboard by type.

Creative reuse: An old picnic basket holds used packing peanuts and bubble wrap. Save plastic and paper shopping bags for reuse.

EASY RECYCLING TIPS

1. Find a convenient place to collect recyclable items. Most things come from the kitchen, making it a good spot to set up a recycling center.

2. The great thing about recycling is that it lets you put your favorite old containers, bins, or baskets to use. Assign containers for glass, plastic, and aluminum. To avoid messes, choose solid containers for storing items such as glass jars or cans that may have a sticky residue.

3. Take leftover plastic bags back to grocery stores where they are collected and reused to make plastic lumber.

4. Check the bottom of plastic items to identify what type of plastic they are. If the type is not recycled at your local center, consider ways to reuse the container.

5. Save water and time when recycling cans and bottles. You no longer need to rinse them out or remove their labels.

6. Recycle junk mail or reuse it as scratch paper. To opt-out of certain junk-mailing lists, go to opt-out.cdt.org.

7. Newspapers, magazines, and white paper can all be recycled as long as the paper is clean and dry. Plastic wrap, stickers, or rubber bands should be removed, but staples and plastic window envelopes are OK.

8. Recycle worn-out rechargeable batteries like those used in cell phones, computers, or power tools. Go to www.rbrc.org to find a drop-off location in your area.

9. Divvy up recycling duties among family members and sort items on a daily basis.

10. Print out this list of commonly recycled materials. Post it where you recycle for easy access.

Super Fun

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 20:44:00 +0000

It's practically an American holiday.

It's a time when people from all walks of life gather for food, drink, food, conversation, food, football and, did we mention food?

It's none other than Super Bowl Sunday.

It's a football game so big that they have to use Roman numerals to designate it.

The XLVIth edition of the Big Game will be played this coming Sunday, February 5. Which means that all over the country, there will be parties. Lots of parties. Lots of food.

Yeah, we at Hansons Windows keep talking about food. Because, let's face it, isn't that what makes or breaks a Super Bowl party?

Americans have long tied eating with watching football, whether in person (tailgating) or in their living rooms or elsewhere in their homes.

At no time is that more prevalent than on Super Bowl Sunday.

Are you planning on hosting a party? Then click here and here if you're stuck for ideas or need some tips.

Looking for some recipes if you're attending as a guest and are asked to bring a dish? Click here and here.

Or how about some side games to spice things up? Click here.

Whatever you do, wherever you go (or even if you're just staying home), have fun and most of all, be SAFE!

And, of course, GET IT DONE!!

Chim, Chim-iney!

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 21:13:00 +0000

When you think of a chimney sweep, you think of a charcoal-covered man with a broom, wearing overalls and a smile. Kind of like Dick Van Dyke's character in Mary Poppins.

Regardless of what a real chimney sweep looks like, what cannot be disputed is the importance of inspecting and cleaning your chimney, which is something most homeowners don't do regularly, if at all.

Whether you have a fireplace or not, a healthy chimney is essential. After all, gases that you don't want in your home are expelled into the air via the chimney, fireplace or not.

But don't get scammed, either. Unfortunately, there are a lot of less-than-reputable companies out there preying on unsuspecting homeowners. These scammers know that the average homeowner doesn't know very much about chimneys, and they take advantage of that. For more about how to protect yourself against chimney scammers, click here.

There's also a difference between chimney cleaning and inspection.

The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) has a wonderful website which takes you through the whole chimney inspection/cleaning/need topic.

It's doubtful your chimney sweep will lead a dance number on your roof, but you never know!! (Dick Van Dyke in Mary Poppins)

Hansons Windows is also proud and happy to provide information on the three levels of inspections and what services your chimney service technician should provide for each level as defined by the National Fire Protection Association 211 code (courtesy the CSIA site):

Level 1 inspections - If your appliance or your venting system has not changed and you plan to use your system as you have in the past, then a Level 1 inspection is a minimum requirement. A Level 1 inspection is recommended for a chimney under continued service, under the same conditions, and with the continued use of the same appliance. In a Level 1 inspection, your chimney service technician should examine the readily accessible** portions of the chimney exterior, interior and accessible* portions of the appliance and the chimney connection. Your technician will be looking for the basic soundness of the chimney structure and flue as well as the basic appliance installation and connections. The technician will also verify the chimney is free of obstruction and combustible deposits.

Level 2 Inspections –A Level 2 inspection is required when any changes are made to the system. Changes can include a change in the fuel type, changes to the shape of, or material in, the flue (i.e. relining), or the replacement or addition of an appliance of a dissimilar type, input rating or efficiency. Additionally, a Level 2 inspection is required upon the sale or transfer of a property or after an operation malfunction or external event that is likely to have caused damage to the chimney. Building fires, chimney fires, seismic events as well as weather events are all indicators that this level of inspection is warranted. A Level 2 inspection is a more in-depth inspection than a Level 1 inspection.– When a Level 1 or Level 2 inspection suggests a hidden hazard and the evaluation cannot be performed without special tools to access concealed areas of the chimney or flue, a Level 3 inspection is recommended. A Level 3 inspection addresses the proper construction and the condition of concealed portions of the chimney structure and the flue. Removal or destruction, as necessary, of permanently attached portions of the chimney or building structure will be required for the completion of a Level 3 inspection. A Level 2 inspection includes everything in a Level 1 inspection, plus the accessible portions of the chimney exterior and interior including attics, crawl spaces and basements. It will address proper clearances from combustibles in accessible locations.

There are no specialty tools (i.e. demolition equipment) required to open doors, panels or coverings in performing a Level 2 inspection. A Level 2 inspection shall also include a visual inspection by video scanning or other means in order to examine the internal surfaces and joints of all flue liners incorporated within the chimney. No removal or destruction of permanently attached portions of the chimney or building structure or finish shall be required by a Level 2 inspection.

Level 3 Inspections
– A Level 3 inspection includes all the areas and items checked in a Level 1 and a Level 2 inspection, as well as the removal of certain components of the building or chimney where necessary. Removal of components (i.e., chimney crown, interior chimney wall) shall be required only when necessary to gain access to areas that are the subject of the inspection. When serious hazards are suspected, a Level 3 inspection may well be required to determine the condition of the chimney system.

Bravery Beyond Belief

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 22:10:00 +0000

There's brave, and there's BRAVE.
http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=8555266658614972105
When such bravery is exhibited by a nine-year-old girl who's been kidnapped, then it's off the charts.

Hansons Windows salutes Calysta Cordova, who says she "got my fight from my daddy," and who used that fight to essentially stare down her abductor in Colorado.

Calysta was grabbed on Thursday while walking home from school in Colorado Springs.

It is believed that the girl was kidnapped by 29-year-old Jose Humberto Garcia.

Nearly 18 hours after the snatch, Garcia's truck got a flat tire. It was in a convenience store that Calysta put her foot down.

She managed to go inside and ask to use the phone, claiming to Garcia that she was going to call her uncle. She dialed 911 instead.

After she made the phone call, Garcia attempted to get her out of the store. The girl refused.

"She just said, 'No. I ain’t going nowhere. I'm waiting right here for my momma,'" witness Efrin Villapando told KMGH 7 News.

Calysta's face was a mess.

9-year-old Calysta Cordova

"She had two black eyes, a bruised lip, and a bruise on her cheek," Daniel Espinoz, who was inside the Circle K Store at the time, told KMGH 7 News.

"She was in bad shape," said Villapando. "The bruise on her face was enormous."

It is unclear how she received her injuries.

Regardless, Calysta is home now, and that's what matters.

Garcia, meanwhile, was arrested and is being held on $250,000 bond.

Interim Colorado Springs Police Chief Pete Carey praised 9-year-old Cordova.

"We have a very, very brave, courageous young lady who did things to save her life, and I'm very, very proud of her," he said.

You can't be more of a "Get It Done-er" than Calysta Cordova!

Hansons Windows is proud of you, too!

Cook Slower, Eat Heartier

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 19:06:00 +0000

Slow and steady wins the race---to dinner time!

Winter screams hot, hearty dishes for you and your family. And so many of these can be prepared in one pot. To be more specific, in a slow cooker (or crock pot, as some call it).

Imagine dinner waiting for you when you get home---and YOU prepared it!

Slow cooking does require some preparation ahead of time, but not much. Often times, you just have to throw all the ingredients into the cooker/crock in the morning, and dinner is ready 4-8 hours later.

There may be some chopping and peeling to do, but that's a small price to pay to not have to fuss over dinner after a day at work, etc.

There are also financial benefits to slow cooking.

Because the cooking is done at low heat and for long hours, it's a great way to prepare cheaper, tougher cuts of meat, which do quite well in a slow cooking environment.

Courtesy of the Food Network, click here for eight slow cooker/crock pot recipes, with full color photos.

Go here for some videos of slow cooker recipes.

If you'd like some tips on slow cooking, click here for 11 of them.

Why not try a slow-cooked meal tomorrow?

Happy cooking, from Hansons Windows!

Trivia King

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 19:40:00 +0000

Did you know that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a vegetarian? That he died at age 39, after once stating that he'd never live to age 40?

Or that he earned his PhD. in systematic theology in 1955? And that he is the only U.S. citizen to have a national holiday named after him? We bet you didn't know that he was a "Trekkie," i.e. a big fan of the "Star Trek" TV series!

It's all true---as are many other trivia facts that Hansons Windows uncovered today as our way of giving tribute to Dr. King, whose official holiday is today (though he was born on Jan. 15).

Hansons Windows has to work today; we have too many installations to do, too many customers to check up on and too many prospective clients to visit. But that doesn't mean we don't take time out today to honor a great American.

Happy MLK Day and enjoy the trivia below, which is courtesy of www.MLKOnline.net.

Martin Luther King Jr. Trivia and Fun Facts

January 20, 1986 was the first national celebration of King's birthday as a holiday.

Won Nobel Peace Prize on December 10, 1964.

Was stabbed in 1958 while promoting his book, "Stride Toward Freedom".

Graduated from Crozer Theological Seminary in Chester, PA, with a B.D. in 1951.

Became pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church in 1960.

Earned Ph.D. in systematic theology in 1955.

Spouse: Coretta Scott King (Married from 18 June 1953 - 4 April 1968 [his death]) with 2 daughters, 2 sons

Children: Yolanda King (b. 1955), Martin Luther King III (b. 1957), Dexter King (b. 1961), Bernice King (b. 1963).

Graduated from Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA, in 1948.

January 20, 1986 was the third Monday in January, and consequently, the third Monday in January is an official holiday in the U.S. honoring Dr. King. To date, all 50 states observe the King holiday.

Birth name: Michael Luther King Jr.

His father was also named Michael Luther King, but changed his first name to Martin when he became a minister. The younger Michael changed his name to Martin as well, initially against his father's wishes.

Is the only U.S. citizen to have a national holiday dedicated to him.

Pictured on a 15¢ US commemorative postage stamp in the Black Heritage USA series, issued 13 January 1979.

Was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated.

Time Magazine's "Man of the Year" (1963)

Pictured on a commerative 25 cent postage label issued by the (now defunct) Independent Postal System of America in 1973.

Was a Trekkie (a fan of the original "Star Trek" (1966) TV series).

Encouraged Nichelle Nichols to remain on the original "Star Trek" (1966) series (according to William Shatner's "Star Trek Memories").

Subject of the U2 song "Pride (In the Name of Love)" from their 1984 album "The Unforgettable Fire".

Santa Monica auditorium named in his honor with daughter Yolanda King officiating and performer/activist Anthony Begonia organizing the music. [January 2006]

He stated that he would not live to be 40. He died aged 39.

Is portrayed by LeVar Burton in Ali (2001).

Among his personal, non-violent reform heroes was Mahatma Gandhi (1869-1948).

During the funeral, his casket was pulled by a mule-driven cart down Atlanta's main street.

Was a vegetarian.

Publicly spoke out against the Vietnam War in 1967.

On King's 60th birthday in 1988, the U.S. government unveiled a statue memorial of his likeness, to commemorate the progress of civil rights.

Grandfather of Yolanda Renee King.

Younger brother of Willie Christine King and Alfred Daniel King.

Son of Martin Luther King and Alberta Williams King.

Detroit Auto Show Linkage Love

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 17:08:00 +0000

This weekend marks the start of the 2012 North American International Auto Show at the Cobo Center in downtown Detroit.

Whether you decide to go or not, we at Hansons Windows figured you might like having a bunch of Auto Show-related links available at one place: HERE!

So what follows are some informative, cool, interesting and fun links, all having to do with the 2012 NAIAS.

Have fun!

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The basics (hours, days, parking, cost, etc)

Mobility center makes debut at NAIAS (Detroit Free Press)

Nissan's back, Jaguar, BYD gone from auto show floor (Free Press)

Goings on in and around the NAIAS in Detroit (Metromix)

2012 Lincoln MKZ Concept Car (Free Press)

Honda Accord Concept reveal (Free Press)

Auto Show photo galleries (Free Press)

Charity preview ticket sales up (Detroit News)

Plan ahead for auto show parking (Detroit News)

2012 NAIAS consumer guide (Detroit News)

Videos from the NAIAS (Detroit News)

Panoramic views from auto show floor (Detroit News)

Photo galleries: "Must-sees" at auto show (Scott Burgess, Detroit News)

Winter and the Great Indoors

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 16:12:00 +0000

The weather this winter hasn't been overtly cold (yet), but it's still cold enough to keep the kids indoors. Of course, kids tend to stay indoors when the weather is warm, too---but that's another blog post!

But at least when the weather is warm, the option to go outside is there. In the winter, not so much.

If you have little ones at your feet---we're talking ages 6 and below---the winter time is when they might start to get a little cabin feverish.

Video games and TV can only go so far!

So what kinds of games and activities can you provide for your children and their friends when the weather outside is frightful?

Thanks to PartyKaboose, Hansons Windows has uncovered lots of options, and they won't cost you a lot of time or money in order to provide them for your children.

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Ice Fishing

Supplies: Blue sheet or cardboard painted blue Dowel sticks String Clothes pins

Hang sheet or cardboard from ceiling. Construct fishing pole by tying one end of the string to the dowel and tying the other end of the string around the clothes pin. You may want to glue gun them in place so they don't slide off.

How To Play: A parent stands behind the sheet/cardboard with a basket full of little goodies/gifts to attach to the clothes pins. Kids cast their fishing lines over the "ice" and know that they've caught something when they feel a tug on their line.

Frosty

Supplies: A roll of toilet paper for each team Sheet of orange, black, red and yellow construction paper for each team Hat for each team Scissors for each team

How To Play: Have several teams of four or five children. When you say, "GO" they should wrap one of the people on their team up in toilet paper (leaving an opening for nose and eyes). Once they've built their "Frosty" they can utilize the hat and construction paper to decorate him with. Put a time limit on decorating. Give a prize for the first completed Frosty, most unique Frosty, ugliest Frosty, cutest Frosty, etc.

Shoe Box Relay Race

Supplies: Tootsie Rolls (1 for each child) Shoe box for each team Bell for each team 2 mittens for each team 2 bowls for each team

Place tootsie rolls, in a bowl, at the opposite end of the room. Hang a bell, from the ceiling, over the tootsie roll bowl.

How To Play: Divide the children into two or more relay teams. Explain that when you say, "GO" the first person on each team will put on the mittens, step into the shoe boxes and race to the other end of the room where they will ring the bell with their nose. They are then to pick up a tootsie roll out of the bowl and race back to their team still wearing their mittens and shoe boxes. Pass the mittens and shoe box to the next person in line, sit down, eat your tootsie roll. The first team to finish eating their tootsie rolls wins!

Snowball Over the Mountain

Supplies: Sheet White balloons blown up 4 adults to help

How To Play: Children are divided into two teams. A sheet (the mountain) is held above eye level between the two groups by the 4 adults (holding each end). Each side throws snowballs (white balloons) over to the other side.

Unwrap the Gift

Supplies: Box filled with candy Box wrapped many times with different paper Music

How To Play: Children sit in a circle on the floor. While the music is playing the "present" is passed around the circle. When the music stops, one layer of wrapping paper is removed. The music begins again and the process continues until the box is completely unwrapped. The box is then opened and everyone shares the candy.

What's that Song?

(4th grade or older)

Supplies: Black board and chalk or Dry Erase board and markers Slips of paper with a different Christmas song written on each one Christmas themed bowl to draw from or stocking Timer

How To Play: Divide the class into teams. The player up draws a slip of paper from the stocking, reads it silently and hands to teacher. The player must then draw clues as to what their song is and by so doing get their team to say the name of the song. If the playing team guesses correctly, before the timer runs out, they get two points.

If the playing team cannot guess correctly, before the timer runs out, the opposing team may take one guess. If the opposing team guesses correctly they get a point and the playing team loses a point. Most points wins.

Winter Pictionary

Supplies: Black board and chalk or Dry Erase board and markers Slips of paper with a different winter items/objects on each one [example: mittens, coat, candy cane, snowflake, etc... Christmas themed bowl to draw from or stocking Timer

How To Play: Divide the class into teams. The player up draws a slip of paper from the stocking, reads it silently and hands to teacher. The player must then draw clues as to what was on their paper and by so doing get their team to say what it is. If the playing team guesses correctly, before the timer runs out, they get two points.

For small children don't divide into teams, use a timer or keep track of points. Just play until someone in the class yells out the right answer.

Snowball Relay Race

Supplies: Styrofoam ball for each team Pencil for each team

How To Play: Divide into teams. First child on each team will be given a styrofoam ball (snowball) and a pencil. On your mark they are to bend over, place the ball on the floor, and push the ball with the pencil across the room, around an obstacle, and back to next child on team. First team to finish wins.

Snowball Making

Supplies: Large sheets of tissue paper, one for every child Bucket for each team

How To Play: Divide the children into two teams. The first person on each team gets a piece of tissue paper and crumples it into a ball using one hand (this keeps them soft). Child then places the snowball in the bucket. The next child repeats the first childÃs actions and the process continues until the team has all their snowballs made. Follow this game with a Snowball Throw.

Snowball Throw

Supplies: A line drawn or taped on the floor

How To Play: Set a time for 2-3 minutes. Yell, "GO"! Each team throws their tissue paper snowballs back and forth across the lines. When the timer goes off, the team with the least amount of snowballs on their side wins.

Craft Fun

You can find some Fun Winter Crafts in our crafts section. Be sure to check all of our Winter Activities for a lot more ideas

The Accidental Heroes

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 16:33:00 +0000

Every Monday, we at Hansons Windows like to post a human interest story on our blog. We feel that such uplifting (true) tales are a great way to start the week.

This week we share the heart-stopping experience of Fox 2 news anchor Monica Gayle and her family, which occurred two days after Christmas as they traveled north for some holiday skiing.

As reported by Neal Rubin at the Detroit News, Gayle and her family witnessed, on northbound I-75 just south of Gaylord, a horrific one-vehicle accident that upturned a Ford Expedition.

After some gasps and feelings of amazement at what they had just seen, Gayle and her crew swung into action.

Fox 2 news anchor Monica Gayle, with son Tanner and husband Dean Greve

Her husband, son and brother-in-law rushed to the Expedition, which had landed on its roof. Gayle dialed 911.

Inside the Expedition, it turned out, were a husband and wife, three young children and a puppy. The kids, who looked to be 2, 4 and 6, were safely buckled into child seats, and even the dog was protected by a crate.

"One of those adrenaline-pumping, profound experiences," Gayle told Rubin.

The ending is happy; after Gayle's family and some college-aged people in another vehicle got involved, helping pull people out of the Expedition, everyone was safe and carted into ambulances, to be sure.

Gayle told Rubin that her family didn't get the names of the people in the Expedition, and they didn't get hers or her family's.

But that anonymity didn't diminish the act of assistance, nor the feelings it produced.

"I feel good in my heart" for helping, Gayle's son, Tanner, said.

And that's the way it should be, whether you know the identities of those in trouble, or not.

Hansons Windows salutes Monica Gayle, her husband Dean Greve, son Tanner and brother-in-law Doug Greve---"Get it Done"-ers to the max!

Hot to Trot

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 16:19:00 +0000

Baby, it's cold outside!

It hasn't been a terrible winter yet in Michigan and Ohio, but we at Hansons Windows knows that the worst is yet to come.

The temps have been cold enough, however, to warm your belly with a hot beverage.

And that includes hot beverages with some potent potables in them.

Remember, always drink responsibly. The good thing about hot alcoholic beverages is that they're almost always enjoyed at home, i.e. with little danger of drinking and driving.

Hansons Windows would like to keep it that way!

So in the spirit of enjoying cold winter nights indoors---and NOT driving---Hansons Windows partners with Hub Pages and author jdaviswrites to present 10 awesome hot alcoholic beverages to enjoy this winter---as long as you're 21 years of age or older!!

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This winter, keep warm with cocktails

The only way to survive a harsh winter, is with alcohol - ask anyone from Minnesota. Here for your enjoyment, is a list of the top 10 hot alcoholic drinks to keep your insides warm and fuzzy all winter. Put your mittens on ladies and gentlemen. Let's toast to winter.

irish coffee

Hot coffee drinks

Coffee drinks are highly underrated in the alcohol circuit. It's pure, chemical engineering genius: caffeine and alcohol. These have been the driving forces of civilization. The building blocks to our very existence! Maybe not, but coffee drinks do provide a nice pep in your step. They can be best enjoyed after a day of skiing, in the morning, or after dinner. No fear, for if you are scared of a little Irish in your coffee, there are plenty of other options.

Nutty Irishman

Coffee mug

- 1oz Bailey's

- 1 oz Frangelico liqueur

- Fill w/ coffee

- Garnish w/ whipped cream and nutmeg

Irish Coffee

Coffee mug

- 1 oz Bailey's

- 1 oz Irish whiskey

- Fill w/ hot coffee

- Garnish w/ whipped cream

Mexican Coffee

Coffee mug

- 1 oz Tequila

- 1 oz Kahlua

- Fill w/ hot coffee

- Garnish w/ whipped cream

Jamaican Coffee

Coffee mug

- 1 oz Light rum

- 1 oz Tia Maria or kahlua

- Fill w/ hot coffee

- Garnish w/ whipped cream

butter baby, baby

Hot chocolate drinks

You mean there is a way to make my hot chocolate taste even better than it already does? Why yes there is boys and girls. If you are in need of a warm up on a cold winter day, and prefer the cocoa to the coffee bean, these hot drinks should do the trick.

Butter Baby

Coffee mug

- 1 oz butterscotch schnapps

- Fill w/ hot chocolate

- Garnish w/ whipped cream

After Dinner Mint

Coffee mug

- 1/2 oz White creme de menthe

- 3/4 oz Peach liqueur

- 1/2 oz vodka

- Fill w/ hot chocolate

- Garnish w/ whipped cream

Snuggler

Coffee mug

- 1 oz Peppermint schnapps

- 1 tsp of sugar

- Fill w/ hot chocolate

- Garnish w/ whipped cream

hot buttered rum

Favorite hot drink recipes

It's always nice to impress your guests. In order to be the hostess with the most-est, you'll need some tricks up your sleeve. On a cold day, there is nothing better than offering up some fancy hot drinks to warm the belly. Most of these are simple to make and extremely delicious.

Hot Buttered Rum

Coffee mug

- 2 oz Dark rum

- 1 oz Simple syrup Or 1 tsp Brown sugar

- Pinch of nutmeg

- Fill w/ hot water

- Garnish w/ cinnamon stick and small floating pat of butter.

Broken Leg

Coffee mug

- 1 oz Spiced rum

- Fill w/ hot apple cider

- Garnish w/ cinnamon stick

Cider of Sin

Coffee mug

- 1 oz Cinnamon schnapps

- Fill w/ hot apple cider

- Garnish w/ cinnamon stick

Hot Spiced Wine

Coffee mug

There are many variations of this drink. I've chosen one of my favorite recipes to help out you thirsty readers. This will be made by combining all the ingredients in a large saucepan, simmering for 13-15 minutes, and serving into coffee mugs.

- 1 Bottle of red wine (Merlot, Pinto Noir, or Burgundy)

- 3 tbsp honey

- 2 cinnamon sticks

- 2 tbsp cardamom seeds

- 1 tbsp black peppercorns

- 1 Sliced orange

- 1 Sliced lemon

- 1/2 Cup sugar

- Garnish w/ cinnamon stick

Cleaning: It's Not Just for Springtime Anymore!

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 15:57:00 +0000

First, Happy New Year! Hansons Windows hopes 2012 is a great year for you and yours.

Now, for this week's "helpful household tips" post!

Why is it that cleaning your home or garage is always associated with spring time?

"Spring cleaning" is a term we're all familiar with, and there's no question that the dawn of spring is a great time to clean windows, get rid of clutter and to start throwing out needless stuff.

But don't underestimate the importance of doing "winter cleaning"!!

While it's true that the cold temps might prohibit any serious outdoor/garage cleaning, there are plenty of cleaning projects, big and small, that can be done indoors.

Don't believe us?

Today, Hansons Windows combines with TLC and author Debra Ronca to provide you with an article about winter cleaning around your home.

Winter Cleaning Your House

Cozy nights by the fire, holiday entertaining, snow and rock salt all over the house -- winter brings its own set of specific housecleaning challenges. This season is actually more about organization and preparedness than cleaning. Maintain your regular cleaning schedule but keep the following in mind.

Inside, you should change your furnace filters a bit more regularly in the winter. The furnace runs more often, so -- especially if you have a fireplace -- there's more debris in the air.

Winter is also a good time to clean your computer, since you have more downtime. Power the computer down and unplug it. Take off the back panel -- it's easy and usually just a couple of small screws. You don't need to touch anything. Just use some canned compressed air to blow out dust and pet hair from the components. Turn your keyboard upside down into a trash bin -- you'll be surprised at how many crumbs and things lodge underneath the keys. Wipe down the keys and board with a damp cloth. You can also use compressed air to get between the keys.

If you enjoy decorating for the holidays, make sure the house is clean when you start. And at the end of the holiday season, take the extra time to dust and wipe down all your ornaments and decor as you put them away. That way, next winter, you'll start with a clean slate. Do you have an artificial Christmas tree that's getting a bit dingy? Put it in the tub and spray it gently with the shower! Let it completely dry and it will be just like new. Of course, please refrain from doing this if you have a pre-lit tree.

If you live in an area where you often get snowed in, you might want to put together a little "survival kit." Include a few days' worth of energy bars, flashlights and batteries, blankets, non-perishable food that doesn't require cooking or refrigeration, and powdered milk. Don't forget a can opener, utensils and a gallon of water per person, per day. Don't forget food for your pets.

Pull your cold-weather gear out of storage -- sleds, skis, snow shovels and scrapers. Make sure everything is in working order and ready to go. Make your coats, hats, mittens and scarves handy.

Outside, there's less cleaning to do; instead prepare for the weather. Put your snow shovels in an easy-to-reach spot. Buy salt or other de-icers so you're not caught unprepared. Look for non-toxic compounds for the safety of your and your neighbors' pets. Make sure all your vehicles have ice scrapers and brushes to remove snow. Check your wiper fluid and antifreeze levels, and always keep your gas tank close to full to avoid freezing.

Put down waterproof floor mats near every door leading outside to catch melting snow and salt. Pick up some large baking sheets -- the kind with a raised edge -- and use them for boot and shoe storage. It will keep dirt and snow from spreading and melting in the house. Try to find the baking sheets at garage sales or flea markets for real savings.

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Thanks, Debra!

And don't just be clean this winter---be safe, too!

Here's to a great 2012, from Hansons Windows!

Happy Holidays!!

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 20:53:00 +0000

No post today---just wanted to wish everyone a happy and safe holiday season from Hansons Windows!!

Best Ways to Have a "Meltdown"

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 18:49:00 +0000

Some people use rock salt. Others use more organic-like pellets or beads. Still others use a variety of products that are somewhere between the first two.

The common denominator? All the products are designed to get rid of dangerous ice that forms on driveways, sidewalks, and walkways.

But there are variables, such as the type of cement/pavement; how much foot traffic there is; how cold your climate is, and others.

Not that you'll ever really go wrong by buying any of the multitudes of de-icers out there, but the truth is that some simply work better than others. Of course, some cost more than others as well.

To help you sort it all out, Hansons Windows provides some information on winter de-icers courtesy of About.com and author Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D.

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The best deicer is the non-chemical backbreaking solution... the snow shovel. However, proper use of a chemical deicer can ease your battle with snow and ice. Note that I said proper use, since a big issue with deicers is that they are used incorrectly. You want to use the minimum amount of product needed to loosen the snow or ice and then remove it with a shovel or plow, not cover the surface with deicer and wait for the salt to completely melt the snow or ice. Which product you use depends on your specific needs.

Back in ye olden days regular salt or sodium chloride was the usual choice for deicing roads and sidewalks. Now there are several deicer options, so you can choose the best deicer for your situation. The Transportation Research Board offers a tool to help you compare 42 deicer options based on price, environmental impact, temperature limit for melting snow or ice, and the infrastructure needed to use the product. For personal home or business use, you'll probably see only a few different products on the market, so here's a summary of some of the pros and cons of the common deicers:

sodium chloride (rock salt or halite)

Sodium chloride is inexpensive and helps keep moisture from accumulating on roads and walkways, but it is not an effective deicer at low temperatures [only good down to -9°C (15°F)], damages concrete, poisons the soil, and can kill plants and harm pets.

calcium chloride

Calcium chloride works at very low temperatures and isn't as damaging to the soil and vegetation as sodium chloride, though it costs a bit more and may damage concrete. Calcium chloride attracts moisture, so it won't keep surfaces as dry as many other products. On the other hand, attracting moisture can be a good quality since calcium chloride releases heat when it reacts with water, so it can melt snow and ice on contact. All deicers must be in solution (liquid) in order to start working; calcium chloride can attract its own solvent. Magnesium chloride can do this too, though it isn't used as commonly as a deicer.

Safe Paw

This is an amide/glycol mixture rather than a salt. It is supposed to be safer for plants and pets than salt-based deicers, though I don't know much about it otherwise, except that it is more expensive than salt.

potassium chloride

Potassium chloride doesn't work at extremely low temperatures and may cost a little more than sodium chloride, but it is relatively kind to vegetation and concrete.

corn-based products

These products (e.g., Safe Walk) contain chlorides and work in very low temperatures, yet are supposed to be safe for yards and pets. They are expensive.

CMA or calcium magnesium acetate

CMA is safe for concrete and plants, but it is only good down to the same temperature as sodium chloride. CMA is better at preventing water from re-freezing than at melting snow and ice. CMA tends to leave a slush, which may be undesirable for sidewalks or driveways.

Deicer Summary

As you would imagine, calcium chloride is a popular low-temperature deicer. Potassium chloride is a popular warmer-winter choice. Many deicers are mixtures of different salts, so that you get some of the advantages and disadvantages of each chemical.

Lights! Lights! Action!

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 16:36:00 +0000

If you've ever driven through Royal Oak after Thanksgiving and before the New Year, no doubt you've seen the Unger home. Chances are, you saw it from a great distance.

When you drove closer, your eyes may have been temporarily blinded by all the holiday lights.

About 80,000 lights, actually.

The Ungers, who live on Washington Street at 12 Mile Road in Royal Oak, have been dazzling folks from far and wide with their very elaborate holiday lights display.

According to a story in today's Free Press, the Ungers have approximately 300 dolls as part of the display and---get this---about 400 extension cords providing power to all of it.

The Ungers first started in 1986, making this year the 25th anniversary of their team-oriented project.

The Ungers' display (part of it) that is visible from Washington Street

The Ungers decided not to share their electric bill damage with the newspaper, and who can blame them?

The display is on a corner lot, so there is plenty to see from both Washington and 12 Mile---and from parts yonder.

The Ungers get asked all the time: "Why do you do it?"

"We went through, and when I say 'we' I'm talking about the whole United States ... went through some lean years and people came here and were so happy to see the lights; it made their Christmas," said Ethlyn Unger. "I think it's the satisfaction we both get from having so many people happy."

Hansons Windows salutes the Ungers of Royal Oak, true "Get It Done"-ers of the most holly and jolly degree!

Kids Kitchen

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 15:58:00 +0000

If they aren't already, most kids are almost out of school for the holiday break. That means the house is about to get louder and more hectic during the daytime.

But it's also a great time to reconnect with your children and to bond with them. Chances are, your lives have been nonstop since September, with little opportunity to pause and catch your breath.

One great way to get closer to your kids---and have fun at the same time---is to make holiday treats with them in the kitchen. And this goes for boys, too. After all, eaters come in both genders, right? Who says the boys can't have fun creating the goodies that they're about to consume?

Hansons Windows is happy to provide some terrific ideas to get your kids helping and having fun in the kitchen. They come courtesy of Enough Time Moms , and were written by Shaina Olmanson, author of the Food for My Family blog.

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I believe in the importance of getting my kids into the kitchen. Teaching them how to cook is one of the life skills I view as essential so someday they can feed their own families. While holiday baking can be a stressful time, it’s also a great time to get your kids’ hands dirty in the kitchen.

My own children are always so proud when they can bring something they made as gifts for family and teachers. We love to package up our goodies and make handmade cards to go along with them, but I know that I need a plan for my own sanity. Here are a few ways you can get kids of all ages mixing it up this holiday season:

1. Get into it. Your kids will know if you’re not enjoying yourself. Put on an apron, get the kids dressed in theirs and get your best, most smiley gameface on. Making a mess is going to be part of this, so know that going in, and be ready to let the kids enjoy it.

2. Make it fun. Not only does your attitude count, but the environment counts as well. Some holiday music or your favorite Christmas movie on in the background for the “downtime” in between the dumping and the mixing and the rolling will keep the kids interested and engaged in the room at all times.

3. Pick a recipe you know. Now is not the time to try new recipes. Instead, pick one you know your way around so if something should go wrong (an extra egg added by an overly excited egg breaker, perhaps) you’ll be able to adjust accordingly.

4. Don’t be an overachiever. As well as choosing a recipe you know, pick one that doesn’t require a ton of precision. Drop cookies, dipped pretzels or things that don’t need to be rolled and twisted and pinched just so are best when getting little hands in there with you.

5. Make a mix. Rather than bake something, try throwing something together that you can gift and your recipient can bake or make. Pancake mix, hot chocolate mix and brownies are all easy to layer and well received. Plus, kids can get creative decorating gift tags and labels and adding ribbons to the jars.

Do you get your kids involved in the holiday baking process? What are some of your favorite things to make? E-mail us at geno@hansons.com and we'll be sure to include them in a future Hansons Windows blog post!

Christmas Coming Too Fast? Panic NOT!

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 16:43:00 +0000

OK, it's December 14. Just 11 days of Christmas shopping left (counting today). Is it too early to be in panic mode?

Maybe you are notorious for shopping last minute, or maybe you have your list in order and look at the calendar and shrug, because you feel like you have everything together.

Good for you!

But maybe you're the panicky type and think that 11 days is nowhere near enough time to check everyone off your list.

As we do every Wednesday at the Hansons Windows blog, we're here to talk you down from the edge!

What follows are some cool, easy, and inexpensive last-minute gift ideas that are very attainable between now and Christmas Day.

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Gift cards. They come in all denominations and for all different places. Just check out your local drug store or grocery market. The cards are typically dangling, tantalizingly so, from mini-kiosks and they're for everything from restaurants to retailers to oil change places. Gift cards give you so much flexibility, because you can tailor them for specific people and make them more personalized, based on their tastes and interests.
Something handmade. If you're arts and craftsy, you know where we're going here. People always get a kick out of something that was made and not bought. It can be as simple as a tree ornament or a specially-decorated photo frame with a picture of you, your family or your children in it.
Lottery tickets. This may, on the surface, seem a little gauche, but if you pick the right people, these will go over wonderfully. Target folks who would not normally buy them. You're giving them free chances to win something. But if you do this, don't be chintzy; invest about $10.
Photo album. Take a few hours and go through all those old photos in the basement. Then buy an inexpensive album and start putting together some memories. This works for good friends and a family member, of course. They'll smile---guaranteed!
TV series on DVD. This is another great way to show someone that you know what they like. It's also a great over-the-holidays gift. Buy a pack of episodes of a favorite TV show and your gift receiver will pop them into the DVD player on Christmas night.
Fun "coupon books." Put together a 12-month book (as simple as using construction paper, a hole punch and some string) of "coupons" for things such as: back rubs; a homemade sundae; breakfast in bed; a lunch out; cleaning the dishes, etc. You can also get funny and zany; step outside your comfort zone. Just remember: be prepared when your giftee chooses to "redeem" them!

Happy shopping from Hansons Windows!

P.S. Got some good gift ideas of your own, whether for Christmas, birthdays, etc? E-mail them to geno@hansons.com, and we'll be sure to use them in a future blog post!

An Offer She Couldn't Refuse

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 16:13:00 +0000

Some of the readers of the Hansons Windows blog may be too young to remember a TV show called "Truth or Consequences."

The show began in the 1950s and new episodes were produced in the late-1960s, early-1970s.

It was a stunt show, basically; contestants from the audience would be asked to do some outlandish things---both in the studio and outside, in full view of the general public.

But the show also had some genuinely touching moments---especially the newer version.

It was the time of the Vietnam War, so when soldiers were coming home, it was a big deal---kind of like how it is now, with the activity in Afghanistan and elsewhere.

"T or C" would occasionally reunite young couples---the soldier returning home and surprising the unwitting young lady who was his girlfriend/fiancee/wife.

Typically the returning soldier was part of the stunt in which the girl was participating, and his reveal would predictably bring on screams and tears of joy.

Friday night at Miami International Airport, another reunion of soldier and girlfriend was captured on video, but it wasn't part of a TV show.

Lindy Gonzalez brought a whole team of welcomers to greet her boyfriend, U.S. Army Specialist Michael Smith, who was returning from active duty in Afghanistan.

But it was Gonzalez who was surprised.

Smith, with the welcome team in on it, dropped to his knee as he emerged from the plane and proposed marriage to Gonzalez, complete with an engagement ring.

You can check out her stunned reaction (she said yes, by the way) by clicking here.

The Oregon couple were meeting in Miami so Smith could meet Gonzalez's family, who live in South Florida.

We think that Smith made a good impression!

Congrats to the happy young couple from Hansons Windows!

Michael Smith showed another creative way to "Get It Done"!!!

Jingle All the Way!

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 20:17:00 +0000

(the following is taken from our official press release announcing the "Sing-a-Jing" contest winners)

Three young singers from Michigan are receiving college savings bonds and are set to go on a shopping spree, courtesy of 1-800-HANSONS home improvement company.

The trio of kids finished with the top three online vote totals in the annual 1-800-HANSONS “Sing-a-Jing” contest, which encouraged Michigan and Ohio kids in grades K thru 8 to sing the company’s popular “Get it Done” jingle on video and upload them for viewing and voting.

The three winners and their prizes are: first place, Sarah N., grade 5 from Commerce Township ($5,000 college savings bond and a $500 Toys R Us gift card); second place, Destiny B., grade 2 from Southfield ($2,000 savings bond and $300 gift card); and third place, Isabella K., grade 4 from Novi ($1,000 savings bond and a $200 gift card).

The winning kids emerged from over 100 videos submitted between September 26 and November 26, 2011. All voting was done online.

1-800-HANSONS, a home improvement company serving Michigan and Ohio since 1988, hosts the contest as a way of giving back to the community, said company founder and president Brian Elias.

“It’s not about finding the best singers, like ‘American Idol,’” Elias said. “It’s about engaging our communities and giving kids another outlet to have some fun and get creative, while also providing healthy competition.”

Elias said that he was “blown away” by the creativity and effort put into many of the videos.

Sarah’s school, Country Oaks Elementary, wins a $2,500 cash prize as a result of her first place victory. The second and third place winner’s school receives $1,500 and $1,000, respectively.

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Congratulations to the three winners, AND to the 100+ other kids who took the time, effort and creative energy to put their version of our jingle on video and upload it!

And thanks to the schools, parents, friends and relatives who encouraged, promoted and voted!

You are all "Get It Done"-ers!!

Old Man Winter vs. Your Car

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 20:32:00 +0000

Here at the Hansons Windows blog, we've been so caught up in holidays lately---Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas---that we have virtually ignored the fact that winter is upon us in Michigan and Ohio.

Winter brings many challenges for folks in our service area (Michigan and Ohio). Perhaps the one common denominator that affects us when it comes to winter is how the cold weather abuses our cars.

From driving on snowy, icy roads to keeping your car healthy "under the hood", Old Man Winter keeps us on our frostbitten toes.

As we are wont to do here, the Hansons Windows blog partly exists to provide helpful tips, and this post is no exception.

This week's tips come from MSNBC.com's Laura T. Coffey, who gives us 10 Ways to Get Your Car Ready for the Winter.

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1. Get the right kind of oil change. Are you approaching the time for a 30,000-mile full service for your vehicle? If so, don’t procrastinate! Among other things, the service should include an oil change, and the oil used should have the right viscosity, or thickness, for your vehicle at this time of year. Oil tends to thicken as it gets colder, and if it’s too thick it won’t do the best job of keeping your engine lubricated. Check your owner’s manual for guidance about which oil to use in different climates and temperatures.

2. Make sure you can see. When’s the last time you replaced your windshield wiper blades? They usually work effectively for about one year, so be sure to invest in some new ones if you’re due. Here’s another important step to take before you find yourself struggling to see in a blinding storm: Fill up your windshield washer reservoir with windshield washer fluid. (Plain water won’t do the trick at this time of year because it freezes.) Also check to see that your heater and defroster are working properly so you can keep the windshield nice and clear.

3. Give your battery a little TLC. This is an ideal time of year to make sure your battery’s posts and connections are corrosion-free and that your battery has all the water it needs. If your battery is more than three years old, have a certified repair shop test its ability to hold a charge. Granted, you might be able to find a Good Samaritan to help you jump-start your vehicle in the middle of a blizzard — but wouldn’t you rather avoid such a scenario altogether?

4. Examine your belts and hoses. When you have that full service done on your vehicle, make sure the belts and hoses get checked for wear and tear — even if you’re driving a modern car. Cold weather can do a number on belts and hoses, so they deserve attention.

5. Check your tire pressure. Your tires must be properly inflated to ensure you’ll have the best possible traction as you drive along — and traction is often severely jeopardized in wet, snowy or icy conditions. The air pressure in your tires has likely dropped as the weather has gotten colder, so it’s important to see where things stand now. (You can generally expect that you’ll lose 1 pound per square inch whenever the temperature drops by 10 degrees Fahrenheit.) Again, your trusty owner’s manual will tell you what your target tire pressure should be.

6. Think about switching to snow tires. Do you live in a hilly place that gets its fair share of snow? Then you might want to improve traction even more by investing in winter tires and using them over the next few months instead of your usual all-season tires. When shopping around for snow tires, ask about all the fees that might come into play, such as fees for mounting and balancing. You can accomplish this easily and make accurate cost comparisons by asking each store for the “out the door charge.”

7. Do you have four-wheel drive? If so, it’s important to check the status of your four-wheel-drive system and be sure it’s working correctly — especially because most drivers don’t use their 4WD systems in the pleasant summer months. Be sure that the system engages and disengages easily, and that all drivers in your household know how and when to activate the system.

8. Get the antifreeze mixture just right. Aim for having a 50-50 mix of antifreeze (coolant) and water inside your radiator. This will prevent the mixture from freezing even at ridiculously cold temperatures. It’s easy to check the status of the mixture with an inexpensive antifreeze tester, which you can pick up at any auto parts store. If the mixture is off, your cooling system should be drained and refilled or flushed. Be sure you’re equipped to dispose of your old antifreeze properly if you do this job yourself. It can’t just be poured down the drain.

9. Prepare an emergency kit. Store this stuff in your trunk during the winter months, especially if a road trip is in your future:

a blanket
extra boots and gloves
an extra set of warm clothes
extra water and food, including hard candies
an ice scraper
a small shovel
a flashlight
windshield washer fluid
windshield wipers
flares
jumper cables
a tool kit
tire chains
a tire gauge
a spare tire with air in it
tire-changing equipment
a first-aid kit
paper towels
a bag of abrasive material such as sand, salt or non-clumping kitty litter, which can provide additional traction if a tire gets stuck in snow.
Also, keep the gas tank as full as you can to prevent the gas lines from freezing.

10. Know what to do if you get stranded. Don’t wander away from your car unless you’re completely sure about where you are and how far away help is. Light two flares and situate them at each end of your vehicle to call attention to your plight. Put on the extra clothes and use the blanket to stay warm. If you have enough gas in the tank, run the engine and heater for about 10 minutes for each hour you’re waiting for help. Leave at least one window open a little bit so that snow and ice don’t seal the car shut. Suck on a hard candy to prevent your mouth from getting too dry.

Sources:

No Tiger Stadium? No Problem

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 16:46:00 +0000

You know you're a die-hard Detroiter when you hear the word "Corktown" and you know exactly where it is.

If you don't know, don't worry. You're still OK in our book.

Many people, even those who've grown up in Metro Detroit, are unsure where Corktown is, even if they've heard of it.

Corktown is the area of the city that once counted Tiger Stadium among its landmarks.

We at Hansons Windows know where Corktown is, because it's our business to know!

It's an area that, as you might guess, has taken a financial hit since Tiger Stadium (Michigan and Trumbull Avenues) closed for business after the 1999 baseball season. Dotted with taverns, restaurants and shops, Corktown also is known for its quaint residential area.

Dave Steinke and Dennis Fulton have high hopes for the area, and that's why they're set to open the Mercury Burger Bar later this month, a new eatery that once was an old tavern with a leaky roof.

The joint, located on Michigan Avenue (near 14th Street) in the shadow of the old Michigan Central Station, is across from Slows Bar BQ (another landmark for you to look up!).

Steinke and Fulton dismiss the notion that, just because Tiger Stadium is long gone, you can't make a go of it in Corktown.

People know Slows Bar BQ, for example. And people like Slows. Moments before the BBQ restaurant's doors open on any given day, it's not unusual for there to be eight or 10 people lined up to get in, "and we've been watching that for six months," Steinke says. "There's an incredible amount of pent-up demand in this city."

Fulton thinks the area around Michigan and 14th can become a mini SoHo, that trendy cluster of shops, cafes and boutiques in lower Manhattan.

According to this piece by the Detroit News's Neal Rubin, Fulton, a retired Detroit Police commander from Clinton Township, spent a decade running the Tiger Stadium detail, sitting next to Sparky Anderson in the third-base dugout. "Ten years ago on this block," he says, exaggerating only slightly, "there wasn't a window that wasn't broken."

And, Rubin adds, there is Slows, which is expanding, a real estate office, a new bar and a coffee bar, all right across the street. Even the auto repair shop has added on.

Hansons Windows is proud of Steinke and Fulton, and we wish them well in their new endeavor.

Besides, we're suckers for a good burger!

Dennis and Dave: you are true Get It Done-ers!!

Jing, Sang (Thank You!)

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 19:18:00 +0000

They came from rural areas and urban cities. Their voices were full of enthusiasm, even if a tad off-key at times. And their creativity was often off the charts.

"They" were all the Michigan and Ohio kids in grades K thru 8 who entered the 1-800-HANSONS Sing-a-Jing Contest, which closed on November 26.

To re-cap, the kids were encouraged to sing our "Get It Done" jingle on video, upload it, and market themselves to friends and family, who voted for the videos online.

The contestant with the most online votes between September 26 and November 26 wins a $5,000 college savings bond and a $500 Toys R Us gift card. The winning child's school receives a $2,500 cash prize.

There are also two attractive consolation prizes (2nd place: $2,000 savings bond, $300 gift card; 3rd place: $1,000 savings bond; $200 gift card), making three winners altogether.

We'll announce the winners next week.

The videos were a blast to watch. The time and effort taken by such a large number of kids in order to make the jingle singing as entertaining as possible, was truly inspiring.

1-800-HANSONS is so proud of the kids who entered. And we're also going to give a shout out to all the moms and dads who turned camera operator and marketer. Some parents took to Twitter and Facebook, trumpeting their child's entry and urging voters to go to the official contest website and cast votes.

The hard work will especially pay off for the three kids whose names and schools we'll announce in this space next week.

The 1-800-HANSONS Sing-a-Jing contest was, once again, a big success.

Here's our founder and president, Brian Elias.

“We had another fantastic collection of videos,” he said. “I was very impressed by the creativity shown. And on behalf of 1-800-HANSONS, I want to thank all the kids, their parents, and the schools for participating with such enthusiasm.”

Indeed.

If anything was proven during the two months that the contest was up and running, it was that when you mix a child, a video camera and some time together, the results can be stupendous.

Great job, everyone!

Come back here next week to read the names of the winners and their schools.

Get It Done!

...And a Stress-Free New Year!

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 16:37:00 +0000

Thanksgiving is SO last week. So is Black Friday. Even Cyber Monday is passe---it was two days ago, after all!

Tomorrow is December 1. Just 24 days till Christmas.

Freaking out yet?

Seems that once Halloween passes, the calendar shifts into overdrive. Really, where did November go? Seriously!

Are you hosting friends and family over the holidays? Is the house a wreck right now? Do you wonder how you're going to get everything done in the three-plus weeks that you have left?

We feel you, as they say.

Today, Hansons Windows offers suggestions and tips from a cool website called Organized Christmas. In this post, author/editor Cynthia Ewer espouses doing less but enjoying more.

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"Tradition" is a powerful force that sometimes pulls an unsuspecting family along in its wake. Do your holiday traditions serve your family, your values and your spiritual beliefs--or are you running a tired and joyless circle each holiday season in the name of tradition?

It's time to simplify holiday traditions!

To cut stress during the season, don't wait to give your family's holiday traditions a stiff scrutiny. Give some thought to your family's holiday traditions well before the season is full upon you. Try these ideas to simplify your family's traditions--and deepen the season's joys!

Be objective! Re-run last December through your mental computer, and try to discern which activities were most enjoyed, most meaningful--and which might be scheduled for revision or elimination.

The goal: to simplify the season by doing less and enjoying it more.

Cut back

You may find that some traditions have been outgrown and should get the old heave-ho.

Sure, young married couples can manage to visit both sets of parents on Christmas Day, but that tradition becomes a burden once the second child enters the family. Time to end it when little ones are frazzled and cross at too many long dinners in scratchy dress-up clothing. (As to how one convinces one's mother-in-law of the wisdom of this step, I'll say only that its a rite of passage comparable to buying one's first brassiere.)

Scale down

Simplify those traditions that make the cut. Take the gingerbread house. You always make an elaborate gingerbread house the Saturday after Thanksgiving--but last year, the teenagers were bored with the whole thing, and you're working full-time now, and it's just so much work and half the time the house falls apart and the icing drips off . . . .

Why not trade that gingerbread house for a quick session of icing dairy case sugar cookies with those very teenagers? You've kept the fun, but freed yourself from the chore.

Refresh the list

Best of all, promote some pleasurable family activities to the status of tradition. How do you create a tradition? Simple: you do it every year, you do it all together, and you all enjoy it.

Beware, though! Don't fall into the Women's Magazine Tradition Trap!

You know what I mean, right? You pick up a women's magazine, and it tells about the aw-gee tradition that some other family has, and you get tear-in-eye and want to inflict same on your own little brood--whether its right for your family or not.

No, think back to what your family enjoyed last December. Did you all giggle at the wonderful movie, A Christmas Story? Create a new tradition by scheduling a Video Night, loading up on the Orville Redenbacher's, and cuddling down together to watch.

Keep things simple--and there's no need to spend money to create a cherished tradition. Drive out to see the lights in the most decorated neighborhood in town. Volunteer as a family at the Food Bank. Invite neighbors for punch and cookies.

If you do it every year, you do it all together, and you all enjoy it, its a tradition!

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Oooh...Scaaarrry!

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 20:12:00 +0000

They're cute, they're cuddly. They are adorable when they play with a ball of string.

But to one woman named Sandra, kittens are evil and out to get her.

No fooling. That's what the woman, who doesn't give her last name, believes. She was part of a recently-taped episode of "My Extreme Animal Phobia," which will soon air.

It may seem silly to us, and most of you will probably laugh when you see the clip, but to Sandra, it's serious business. Her fear of kittens, even if considered irrational, is lifelong.

Says Sandra's sister to the show's cameras, "Sandra is just going ballistic. The cats, they're behind the cage, it's not like they can get to her. It's like when she hears 'meow,' it's like she starts crying. I'm like, are you serious?"

Yes, Sandra is.

But she isn't alone, in terms of having what most people would consider to be "irrational" fears.

For a woman named Sandra, this photo is absolutely terrifying

If you're interested to know what shakes the boots of some people---perhaps even those you know personally, go to PhobiaList.com, which started way back in 1995 and has grown ever since.

So what is a phobia?

According to Dictionary.com, a phobia is "a persistent, irrational fear of a specific object, activity, or situation that leads to a compelling desire to avoid it."

In other words, a person could have a phobia against just about anything.

We all have things that make our skin crawl. The usual suspects---insects, snakes, death, heights, closed-in spaces---are relatively commonplace. But a look at PhobiaList.com's voluminous library of phobias will make your head spin.

For example, Peladophobia is the fear of bald people. Honest.

You want something really specific? Then you want Arachibutyrophobia, which is the fear of peanut butter getting stuck to the roof of your mouth.

Folks, here at Hansons Windows, we couldn't make this up. We're clever, but not that clever!

So what are YOU afraid of? Chances are, there's a name for it, on PhobiaList.com's website.

'Tis the Season (to save $$)

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 19:30:00 +0000

We know you haven't even stuffed the Thanksgiving bird yet, but before you know it the Holiday season will be in full swing.

We at Hansons Windows are amazed at how fast the calendar motors after Halloween---and it seems to get worse every year!

This can also be a time of panic, especially if funds are low. And in these tough economic times in Michigan and Ohio, that's often times the case.

You may be wondering how you're going to navigate, financially, through the choppy waters that lie ahead. What with shopping, decorating, and putting a meal on the table every night, it's easy to imagine your dollars being sucked up like a vacuum cleaner would.

Take a deep breath, exhale, and read on.

Thanks to BetterBudgeting.com, author Michelle Jones gives us 39 ways to be frugal and save some money this holiday season.

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Michelle Jones

Christmas Cards:

1. If it's not in your budget to send Christmas cards this year it's okay, your friends and family will understand. If you do want to send them but need to scale down consider sending cards to the people you would like to get in touch with the most.

2. Send postcards or letters, instead of Christmas cards.

3. You can even cut your old Christmas cards from last year in half, and send the pretty side as a postcard. I did this many years and it works great, plus you’re being ‘earth friendly’ by keeping new cards out of the garbage dumps.

4. If you send postcards, whether purchased or homemade, remember they require less postage than a regular card!

5. Christmas cards always go on sale in December, and the longer you wait the better!

6. If you purchase inexpensive cards at a discount store be sure to look at them carefully. Some actually look cheap, while others are much prettier. If you’re going to buy Christmas cards they might as well look nice!

7. For friends and family that live out of state or out of the country make a brief phone call and your loved ones would probably much rather hear your voice than receive a card in the mail.

Wrapping Paper:

8. Use pretty magazine pages to wrap small gifts.

9. The comic section of your newspaper also makes nice wrapping paper. (I once saved them up for a few months before Christmas and had enough to make a gift out of a relative’s favorite comic strip. They loved it!)

10. Use your children’s artwork, or create your own on plain paper… the large reams of packing paper are great for this, contact anyone who’s in the process of moving!

11. Save used wrapping paper all through the year, just roll them back onto the paper tube and place a small piece of scotch tape on the edge to hold in place. These really work great for small gifts where the previously folded lines won’t even show. If the paper is the wrong theme, you could just turn it over and decorate the plain side yourself.

12. No need to buy expensive ribbons and bows to decorate your packages, if you hunt around you can find the cheap stuff that will be just as pretty!

13. Make your own gift tags by cutting a small piece of matching wrapping paper and folding it in half. Our family has been doing this for decades. Write the “To and From” on the inside of the paper and tape it to the wrapped present. This is also great for scraps of paper that are too small to wrap a gift, but too large to toss away.

14. Cut up old Christmas cards make wonderful gift tags too!

15. If you sew, you could also use scrap material to wrap gifts.

16. Or inexpensive tissue paper that you’ve saved from other gifts throughout the year. Then decorate the wrapped gift with little smiley faces, Christmas trees, or even just the words “Merry Christmas!” You could even add some glitter if you have some on hand.

Decorations:

17. Don’t decorate, that is always an option! Or decorate with nature! (See more below.)

18. Don’t decorate with expensive things!!!

19. The stores have incredible sales every year for decorations, buy close to the holiday or even better, after the holiday! You could fill your house with beautiful holiday decorations every year (if you wanted to), for a small fraction of what they originally cost!

20. Save your children’s (or grandchildren’s) holiday crafts and artwork from school each year, after a few years you’ll have a houseful of free and beautiful decorations! And the joy your child will feel seeing his/her artwork proudly displayed year after year is priceless.

21. Have a warm and cozy Christmas the old-fashioned way. Pop some popcorn and string it up all over the house!

22. Add some cranberries to your popcorn string for a touch of color, very pretty.

23. Decorate your house by bringing the outside in, using pinecones and acorns. Sprinkle with a few drops of pine scented oil if you have it on hand, I know a lot of you just might!

24. Invest in a good quality artificial tree after Christmas - when they go on CLEARANCE SALE! Buy good quality because they will last many more years.

25. And don’t try to get all your tree ornaments in one year (this one is especially true for young people just starting out), it took your parents years to collect what they have… and each ornament is more special because of it.

Food:

26. Many grocery stores are offering great deals during the holidays, some are even giving away food, or cash! Read the paper every week for your local deals, or if you don’t subscribe to the newspaper, pick up the free ad flyers at the store and take it home so you’ll have time to look it over really good before shopping. (You can also read many of your sale flyers online at our GrocerySavingTips.com site and print free coupons each week!)

27. Compare prices! I like to buy whatever’s on sale at one store, then a few days later when we need more milk anyways, I go to a different store and get their best deals. It’s a great money-saver!

28. Store brands are great when making casseroles and side dishes… no one will even notice!

29. Cook your turkey in a large Reynolds cooking bag and you won’t need to buy an expensive Butterball, any brand of Turkey should turn out great!

30. Stock up while everything’s on sale, just an extra can or box here and there… not a storage closet full! If you end up with too many bargain buys, share them with your local food bank!

31. Visit our GrocerySavingTips.com Web site for hundreds of free tips on saving money at the grocery store, with or without coupons!

Entertainment:

32. It’s wonderful to take your family to the movie theater during the Christmas holiday break, but this could also be a good time to catch up on the videos that have come out for rental during the holiday season. With Netflix you can rent DVDs online or stream movies instantly. No more charges for late fees or crazy amounts of money spent on popcorn!

33. Another great and frugal way to entertain the family through the holidays is to take a drive around your town, or another town nearby to see their Christmas lights. It’s a family tradition of ours to do this during Christmas week and we look forward to it every year!

34. Get out the board games, the kids will love spending time with you. If you don’t have many to choose from, maybe you can borrow a new game from a friend or neighbor. You never know, they might have a closet full they never even use and would be delighted to share them with you!

35. Playing cards is always fun too, even when the kids are little you can play Go Fish… we’re making memories here folks!

36. Sing, sing, sing! Many churches and groups even have caroling get-togethers in December, what fun!

37. Sit around a warm fire, or cozy up in the living room with blankets and Hot Cocoa. Tell family stories… or have everyone take turns saying how they have been blessed throughout the year, like we do at Thanksgiving. Being thankful shouldn’t end in November, keep the spirit going!

38. Have a family gathering to decorate the tree, wrap gifts, or bake cookies. (And if you do enjoy baking cookies, we'd love to have you join our Cookie Club!)

39. Check out a Christmas book from the library and read it together as a family. Or, decide on a story and have everyone contribute a chapter to create a new Christmas book... maybe even one about your own family! :o)

Thanksgiving Turkey, Part II

noreply@blogger.com (Hansons Windows) — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 19:18:00 +0000

Turkey Frame Soup (recipe below)

Welcome to Part II of our mini-series on Thanksgiving Turkey!

Last week, we told you how to select, buy, thaw, stuff and roast your holiday bird.

This week, as promised, Hansons Windows shares some recipes you can use to get every morsel of deliciousness from your turkey.

Don't fall into the rut of hot or cold turkey sandwiches, as tasty as those can be.

There are all sorts of ways to use leftover turkey---depending on how much you have, whether you have predominantly white or dark meat, whether you want to create lunches or dinners, etc.

The cool thing is, by using more creative recipes, it won't "feel" like you're eating leftovers, because the dishes are so unlike what you had on Thanksgiving Day.

We found some awesome recipes from About.com, and we share them with you here.

Just click on each recipe to go to it.

Home Style Cream of Turkey Soup (A Classic)

Monte Cristo Sandwiches (DEFINITELY not your run-of-the-mill turkey sandwich!)

Smoked Turkey Jerky (Don't be afraid!)

Turkey Artichoke Pie (You heard us)

Turkey Florentine (Blended with spinach, turkey takes on a different flavor)

Turkey Rice Casserole with Mozzarella (An Italian favorite)

Turkey Tetrazzini (Another Italian favorite)

Yankee Doodle Noodles (Egg noodles, turkey and cheddar cheese combine to make a "dandy" meal)
Turkey Frame Soup (From Cooks.com; just as it sounds: save the carcass and make this over the weekend!!)

These should get you started. Remember, for food safety sake, to refrigerate leftover turkey within an hour of consumption on Thanksgiving Day to prevent bacteria from growing.