Hipps Help

Quiet As A Mouse

2014-06-24T13:08:00.001-07:00

You just finished moving into the quaint old house of your dreams. You've been unpacking and cleaning all day and you are exhausted. Falling into bed and trying to sleep is impossible. You keep hearing this scratching noise. You get up to investigate, but don't find anything. You get back in bed and just when you are dozing off into a peaceful slumber, there it is again! This time you mean business! You start digging through your cabinets looking for anything that will stop the critter in it's tracks, but as luck would have it, that's one thing you didn't pack. The only thing you can do to drown out the noise is turn the TV on and hope you can sleep. The first thing on your list the next morning is "pest control"! Instead of paying a professional to do the job, you get on the internet and look up your favorite website, Hipps Help, and find that there are many ways to just do it yourself. Take a look at the link below to see what you can do to rid your home of pests yourself!

http://hippshelp.com/how-to-get-rid-of-mice/

Turn Something Old Into Something New

2014-06-06T21:06:00.001-07:00

Have you ever wanted a part of your house or something in your house to have character and not just be a cookie cutter perfect house? Sometimes it is fun and looks really decorative to turn something that may be a piece that you bought in an antique store or something that has been in the family for many years into a new purposeful item in your newer house. You can do this in your kitchen by turning older kitchen cabinets into a kitchen island. It has many advantages. Besides creating extra cabinet space and work space, it can be a conversation piece and a way to keep something that you might want to replace, but not totally get rid of. With as little time as just a weekend, you can do this yourself. Take a look at the link below to see what materials you will need and how to do it.

http://hippshelp.com/how-to-convert-a-kitchen-cabinet-into-a-kitchen-island/

Give Me A Little Sugar.....Or Maybe Not!

2014-05-27T12:37:00.003-07:00

Almost everybody loves something sweet. A dessert after meals. A soft drink. Cookies. Candy. Every bit of it has sugar. Sugar is a boost of energy and keeps hunger at bay for a little while, but sugar can also cause a lot of problems. Weight gain, diabetes, cavities...the list goes on, and with all of those health issues a lot of money is spent for diagnosis and treatment. Also, eating foods that are loaded with sugars will just keep you from eating other healthier foods that will be good for your body in others ways, so if you are eating things with sugar, then you are just depriving yourself of all the vitamins and minerals you could be getting from things like fruit and vegetables. For more information on this topic and how you can start eating less sugar, please take a look at the link below to show you how to do this.

http://hippshelp.com/how-to-lower-your-sugar-intake/

Self Made Natural Pool

2014-05-06T19:31:00.002-07:00

There is nothing more attractive and inviting than a pool in your own back yard. The only thing about a pool that may not be attractive is the price! Well, here is a way that you can have your pool for only a fraction of the cost and it is actually more environmentally friendly than the traditional swimming pool. It will be the focal point of your whole yard and will also be environmentally friendly as well as a great investment for entertainment purposes. Best of all, you can build it yourself! With a short list of materials and about seven steps, you will have you own natural pool in your backyard.

http://hippshelp.com/how-to-make-a-natural-swimming-pool/

Swag or Sag?

2014-04-22T17:22:00.003-07:00

The garage door is often at the front of your house and a main entranceway. It can easily be seen from the curb of your street and can add to the attractiveness of your property or it can take away from it. The garage is also plays a factor in the security of your house. If the door itself or the wood frame around the door is rotting, thieves could find a way into your garage more easily. Rodents and insects could make their way into your house as well, plus the temperature of your garage could be compromised and this in turn could change the temperature of the rooms around and above your garage. You should consider this and check to make sure the wood frame around the garage door is still intact and that the concrete below it is not crumbling. Despite sounding like a complicated fix, these are still some things that anyone can learn to do. Take a look at the link below to see how to make sure your garage is in tip top shape.

http://hippshelp.com/how-to-fix-a-sagging-header-on-a-garage-door/

Removing Carpet Indentations

2014-04-07T22:41:00.002-07:00

We all like to get new things from time to time or we like to change our surroundings so that we don't see the same old things every day, year after year. You might also be doing a professional make over on someone's home and have a budget to follow and run into this problem. If you have ever rearranged the furniture in your house or someone else's or replaced old furniture with new items, then you will know what I'm talking about. Your carpet or rug can have indentations that show exactly where your old furniture was. This can be annoying and look bad, but you may not have the funds to go buy a new carpet and the good news is it can be corrected. With just a few materials and the right way to do it, the indentions will begin to blend back into their normal shape again. Take a look at the link below to see what materials you will need and the proper way to get rid of those indentations.

http://hippshelp.com/how-to-repair-rug-indentations/

I Need A Vacation!

2014-03-15T21:42:00.002-07:00

It is that time of year again. Time to plan your beach vacation! And despite all of the times you have gone to the beach, you will always forget something, so it is essential to make a list of everything you will need. Each person’s list will vary somewhat, but there are a few things on the main list that everyone will use. Make it a fun family night of sitting down and sharing each list with everyone, that way it might jog your memory of something else you should include. Also, besides the list of what to take with you, you should also make a list of last minute things you should do before leaving your house, such as arming your security system, having the post office to hold all of your mail, and making sure that someone you know and trust knows where you are going, the route you’ll be taking, and has your contact information. Also, make sure you have made your reservations to the hotel you will be staying at and it doesn’t always hurt to confirm them before you get there. With all of these preparations taken care of, the day you leave should be less of a hassle. To get a more complete list of things you need to take with you, check out the link below.

http://hippshelp.com/how-to-pack-for-a-beach-vacation/

Time To Bar-B-Que!

2014-03-04T12:35:00.004-08:00

With the warmer temperatures on the way, not only is it time for DIY projects around the house, but it's also time to Bar-B-Q! Maybe you have a family get together at your house or you are going to Bar-B-Que at your child's school function. Whatever the reason is, you need to get prepared. Being the grill master is no job to be taken lightly and once you have the title, if your food is good, you usually keep it! The kids have asked for Bar-B-Que chicken this time and although it's not hard to cook, it does take longer than grilling burgers. And if it is still just a little cool out or raining, that is fine, because this chicken recipe is baked in the oven. Take a look at the link below to see how easy it is to whip up this meal. With four easy steps and a few items from the grocery store, you'll be Bar-B-Qing in no time...don't forget the chicken!

http://hippshelp.com/how-to-make-barbeque-chicken/

Making Spring Repairs To Your Stoop

2014-02-24T22:48:00.000-08:00

The wild winds of winter are gone with the snow and ice and what is left may be a mess. Moisture in the wood surfaces and any cement or brick surfaces will freeze and make cracks appear and eventually chunks of material break off of your house, which will interfere with the integrity of your home. This could cause air to be able to get in or more moisture which will create more damage and even possibly mold. It will cause a decrease in the value of your home and will make it less attractive. Now that spring is here, you can start making the much needed repairs and make your house look great. With some basic materials and six easy steps you will have it done. Check out the link below for directions how to repair it.

http://hippshelp.com/how-to-repair-a-brick-stoop/

Think You Can Can Fruit? Yes You Can!

2014-02-13T14:27:00.003-08:00

Summer is only a few months away. Time to start thinking and planning what types of snacks you would like to put back for those cold winter months or maybe if you are a zombie fighting, post apocalyptic survivalist type who just wants to be prepared for anything! Whatever the case may be, you can have delicious fruit to tide you over during those times. With just a few items and seven easy steps, you will be able to enjoy fruits such as peaches, pears, strawberries, blueberries, and more. Preserve them to just eat right out of the jar or to use for cobblers or pie fillings. Take a look at the link below to see how to can your own fruits. You will be a hit with your family and friends during the cold winter months or a hit in your survivalist camp with your Dutch oven cobbler baked over your campfire!

http://hippshelp.com/how-to-can-summer-fruit/

Some Like It Hot!

2014-01-31T09:40:00.000-08:00

For some people, heat is like an addiction. The warmer they can get the better. Especially if they have just been chilled to the bone, or for some, if they just simply have gotten out of the shower. Yes they can have a heating vent in the floor blowing warm air and have their thermostat cranked up, but this is just not enough! One of the best ways to get this kind of warm, toasty heat is to install a heat lamp in the ceiling of the bathroom. Not only will it make them warm, it will also give them light. Installing a heat lamp is easy to do. With only ten simple steps and a few materials a cold bathroom can become one of the most coveted rooms in the house, so much so that a TV and recliner may be added later! Take a look at the link below to see how to install a heat lamp in the bathroom.

http://hippshelp.com/how-to-install-a-heat-lamp-in-the-ceiling/

Mouse Under The House

2014-01-10T22:28:00.003-08:00

With the cold temperatures that we've had all over the United States and with a lot of the winter months left to come, a lot of critters are looking for some place warm to curl up and take a nap and keep warm for the winter season. If there is any type of hole that they can crawl through they will do it and if the hole isn't quite big enough, then they may do more damage to make it bigger. This could lead to extra added expenses for you in having to repair the damage and possibly a costly electricity or gas bill before you find out where all of the cold air is coming from. With just a few materials and ten simple steps, you can keep unwanted animals from getting under your deck. Check out the link below to see how to do this.

http://hippshelp.com/how-to-keep-unwanted-critters-from-living-under-the-deck/

Make More Space

2013-12-29T14:35:00.004-08:00

Everyone likes to have more space for their stuff when they have a house or an apartment. Sometimes it seems like you can never get enough space for everything to fit! With a new year just upon us, it would be a great time to make one of the DIY projects and New Year's Resolutions to create more space for your things all over your house. A good place to start would be your bedroom. You can never have enough drawers for sheets and pillow cases, blankets, or extra pillows for guests. And if you have a bathroom that joins your bedroom, then plenty of space for towels and washcloths are a must. One way to create extra storage space for something is to have a bed that serves as a dual purpose for sleeping and for storing bedding. One way to do this is to build drawers underneath the bed to free up some closet space. With just a few simple steps and a few materials, you can create a neat nook for some extra bedding with your own personal creative flair. Take a look at the link below to see what you can do to start your new year off right

.http://hippshelp.com/how-to-create-a-bed-featuring-storage-drawers/

A Sweet Tasting Tart

2013-12-17T16:56:00.001-08:00

Who doesn't like pecan pie? Especially pecan pie around Thanksgiving and Christmas. They are filling, personal pies that happen to be square! They are an easy to make dessert that will lend a professional look to any table. They are easy to take with you if you are taking them to a party or reception away from home. Adults and children will like them and with this recipe you will get thirty six tarts, which will feed a lot of guests with a serious sweet tooth! With just a few ingredients and simple steps you will have a dessert that will make you look good. Take a look at the link below to whip up this delicious treat. Even Santa would eat them instead of the usual cookies and milk left by the tree!

http://hippshelp.com/how-to-make-pecan-tarts/

Man's Best Friend

2013-11-24T20:17:00.003-08:00

According the the U.S. Pet Ownership Statistics (yes, there really is a site for that!), 36.5% of households own a dog. Dogs can be a constant companion for some, a playmate for the kids, and a best friend to others. Although they are a big responsibility and an extra added expense, the benefits from owning a dog can be so rewarding in so many different ways. Once you decide you want a dog, then you have to decide what kind of dog you want or which kind will be best for you. If you are single, you may want a different kind of dog than someone might want that has a whole family that have children. Some breeds are very calm, which would make them good around children. Some are good for show dogs that require a lot of maintenance to look good and some dogs are good as guard dogs. Whatever the reason you want a dog, be sure to know all about the dog that you can and give yourself time to decide which one would be best for you. For more information, please click on the link below.

http://hippshelp.com/how-to-find-the-best-dog-breeds-for-families/

A Mantle For All Seasons

2013-11-12T21:38:00.003-08:00

We've all see the cozy photos of a room with the family Christmas tree with all of the gifts around it. The fireplace decorated with garland all the way across the mantle with stockings filled to the brim, Or the one of a man and woman sitting in front of a fireplace having a romantic meal with a roaring fire and candles lit all the way across the mantle for ambiance. Winter has just hit for this year and many people have fireplaces, but may not have mantles over them. There are many different types of mantles in many different types of materials. Some people like very simple, smooth, wooden mantles that may either be stained or painted. Others may like a mantle that is very thick and rustic made of hewn wood such as cedar. You might want an antique mantle with lots of ornate woodwork and carvings or even a brick mantle. Whatever your choice, a mantle can be a wonderful addition to a fireplace that you can personalize in your own way with photos, clocks, or books. The possibilities are endless and you can spice them up even more for every holiday. Check out the link below to see how to add a mantle to your fireplace.

http://hippshelp.com/how-to-construct-a-fireplace-mantel/

Make Your Own Halloween Ghosts

2013-10-20T20:53:00.003-07:00

It's almost Halloween and kids are preparing to be scared out of their pants from all of the props or decorations that cover yards and houses. There are several different things that will make kids and maybe even some adults scared and one of the most common is a ghost. Ghosts are such simple spirits, no pun intended, that they are easy and very inexpensive to create. You can hang them from your trees or your porch or even have them hovering around in your yard. With just a few simple materials and a great imagination, your house and yard can be a graveyard of fun! Check out the link below to see the materials you will need to make your Halloween a spooky good time!

http://hippshelp.com/how-to-create-halloween-flying-ghosts-for-your-front-yard/

Have Yard, Will Play

2013-10-04T13:00:00.000-07:00

Everybody loves their dogs and just like people, dogs need exercise too. One thing that would help them get the exercise they need and create the type of environment that your dog will enjoy and not become bored with, is to create a play area. Dogs are a lot like kids in that they love to play. You want to create a place for them that it is ok to do this in, otherwise your entire yard will be torn to shreds! You can do this in an inexpensive way that is easy to do. With just nine simple steps and some materials, you will have a place that makes your dogs happy and you as well. You will both be getting the exercise you need and will still have a yard of your own that looks great. Just click on the link below to see what materials you will need and the steps to create a play area for your dogs.

http://hippshelp.com/how-to-create-a-dog-play-area-in-the-yard/

Homemade Strawberry Cheesecake

2013-09-23T23:04:00.004-07:00

Cheesecake is one of those mouthwatering desserts that will get you applause if you make it right. It takes time to make one, but it is worth the effort. It is a great dessert that can be eaten for breakfast with a cup of coffee, or after a meal. You can even have it as a midnight snack. There is no wrong time to eat cheesecake! That rich creamy texture mixed with strawberries will be a delight to your mouth. You can always go and buy a cheesecake that is professionally made, but why do that when you can make the same one at home and get all the credit for it? Making your own will also save you money. The right recipe in the right hands will have your guests coming back for more and begging you for a copy of it! Click on the link below to get the ingredients you will need to make your winning cheesecake.

http://hippshelp.com/how-to-make-cheesecake-factory-strawberry-shortcake/

Something New From Something Old

2013-09-09T18:41:00.001-07:00

Everything has a purpose. Well, almost everything! There are some things that have even more than one purpose. If you can look beyond what something was to what something can be, sometimes you can end up with a really neat new piece. For example, a wire basket that's old and rusted, can be painted, turned upside down, and made into an awesome light fixture. Here's a thought for a funky, cool headboard...an old picket fence with salvaged wood. You can make it look so many different ways. It can be painted or stained and in this case, it is white washed. It will give you that country or coastal feel to your room. With just a few supplies and just a few simple directions, you can create a headboard with a new purpose. Just click on the link below to see how to do it.

http://hippshelp.com/how-to-repurpose-a-picket-fence-into-a-headboard/

Closet Under The Stairs

2013-08-27T21:19:00.003-07:00

You buy a little house in the country with a loft upstairs and move what small amount of possessions that you have into it. Then you get married and start a family. Over the years, your small amount of possessions that you had turns into a lot of stuff! With a house that has a staircase, you can create an extra little nook where you can store a lot of stuff that you might otherwise have run out of room for. Things like videos and dvds, books, or toys. Maybe even a place for your pet's food. It can be a place where you can turn a space that was wasted into a space with a purpose. In just six simple steps you can have it finished and put whatever you want there and give it a creative flair that you designed all on your own, with shelving and paint that makes a statement. Take a look at the link below to see how it can be done.

http://hippshelp.com/how-to-construct-a-closet-under-the-staircase/

A House Fit For A.....Dog

2013-08-04T20:35:00.002-07:00

Our dogs. They do so much for us. They're happy to see us when we get home, they protect us, and they love us unconditionally. A lot of our dogs live inside the house with us living their luxurious lifestyles, but there are so many that are outside dogs. It would be really nice if we could give them the kind of house that every dog deserves that would keep them from getting wet when it rains or even protect them from the temperatures, whether it is hot or cold. The only kind of dog house that would give your dog this kind of protection would be an insulated dog house. With a few materials and six steps, you can make your mutt very happy and know that you have provided him/her with the kind of house they need. Take a look at the link below to see how to build your dog a house they can call a home.

http://hippshelp.com/blog/2012/06/26/how-to-build-a-dog-house-with-insulation/

Enjoy Birdwatching From Your Back Yard

2013-07-24T20:33:00.000-07:00

It is always a joy to watch animals, no matter what kind they are, but some people especially enjoy watching birds. The spring is when everything comes alive, but this easy project can be done any time of the year. Maybe you are an avid photographer and enjoy taking photos of birds or you might have a grandparent that just enjoys seeing them build their home and watch as they make their daily trips in and out of it. Whatever the reason, you will make your feathered friends a lot safer by putting their birdhouse up on a post. This will help keep out unwanted animals such as cats from being able to get at them and their babies. Putting a birdhouse up on a post is an inexpensive and easy thing to do. With just a few materials and a few easy steps, you will have it done. Click on the link below to see how to get it done.

http://hippshelp.com/blog/2010/05/19/how-to-install-a-backyard-birdhouse-post/

Pecan Tarts To Melt Your Heart

2013-07-10T19:58:00.001-07:00

Do you ever want a dessert that is so good, like a pie, but in smaller versions? Well, here is just the thing. Pecan tarts. They are essentially a tiny little pie. These are the perfect thing to take to a party or a reception when you have a lot of people to serve and you can't cut each one of them a uniform piece of a pie like pecan because it would just be messy. This way, they get their very own pie all to themselves! They may take a while to make, but are easy and they will look and taste so good you will be proud you made them. Just click on the link below to get the recipe,which will make 36 tarts.

http://www.hippshelp.com/how-to-make-pecan-tarts/

Jiminy Cricket....or Not!

2013-06-28T11:05:00.002-07:00

There are people that love to hear the sounds of the cicadas and the crickets in the summertime, but there are also people that don't like the sound of any of the "bug" noises at night when they are trying to sleep. To them, this is not any more pleasant than hearing a mosquito buzzing in their ear. There are several ways to get rid of crickets without using harmful pesticides and unless you want to catch a bucketful of them daily to go fishing, you can check out some of the ones in the link to the article below. Not only is it informative of the natural ways to get rid of crickets, it also gives tips on gardening!

http://www.hippshelp.com/how-to-get-rid-of-crickets-naturally/