http://www.diylife.com DIY Life http://www.diylife.com/media/feed_logo.gif http://www.diylife.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~3/KXaIOTIQcY8/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/05/the-diy-reel-growing-herbs-for-kitchen-decor/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/05/the-diy-reel-growing-herbs-for-kitchen-decor/#comments<p>Filed under: <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/in-the-kitchen/" rel="tag">in the kitchen</a>, <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/gardening-and-plants/" rel="tag">gardening and plants</a></p>Sure, herbs smell great and taste even better --- but have you ever considered decorating with them? Kelly Edwards has the scoop:<br /> <br /> <div align="center"><object id="myExp_syn_US_50615144" width="400" height="346" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,47,0"> <param name="movie" value="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9/10032373001?isVid=1&amp;publisherID=1612833736"/> <param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="flashVars" value="@videoPlayer=1612833736&amp;autoStart=false&amp;playerID=10032373001&amp;domain=embed&amp;" /><param name="base" value="http://admin.brightcove.com" /><param name="seamlesstabbing" value="false" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="swLiveConnect" value="true" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><embed src="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9/10032373001?isVid=1&amp;publisherID=1612833736" bgcolor="#FFFFFF" flashVars="@videoPlayer=1612833736&amp;autoStart=false&amp;playerID=10032373001&amp;domain=embed&amp;" base="http://admin.brightcove.com" name="myExp_syn_US_50615144" width="400" height="346" seamlesstabbing="false" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowFullScreen="true" swLiveConnect="true" allowScriptAccess="always" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/shockwave/download/index.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash"></embed></object></div> <br /> <br /> Why should you decorate with herbs? It's easy --- not only are they super functional when cooking, but they happen to be gorgeous and smell fantastic. Plus, they last longer than flowers, which is great for someone who always forgets to throw away their dead plants (hanging my head in shame over here...).<br /> <br /> Want some fresh (pun intended!) ideas on storing and displaying your own little interior herb garden? Try placing a few small herbs in a teacup or mug for an unexpected look. Or, double up on functional storage by placing a potted herb in an ice bucket when not in use. Even better? A cake stand doubles as a decorative element to create a circled montage of your favorite herbs. The possibilities are endless!<br /> <br /> Thanks, Kelly!<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/05/the-diy-reel-growing-herbs-for-kitchen-decor/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/forward/19212281/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/05/the-diy-reel-growing-herbs-for-kitchen-decor/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/V-9gP9j5PUn-T7gxQn_Yp5h2Hw0/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/V-9gP9j5PUn-T7gxQn_Yp5h2Hw0/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/V-9gP9j5PUn-T7gxQn_Yp5h2Hw0/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/V-9gP9j5PUn-T7gxQn_Yp5h2Hw0/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~4/KXaIOTIQcY8" height="1" width="1"/>decorgardengreenherbskitchenleavesplantplantsErin LoechnerThu, 05 Nov 2009 15:00:00 ESThttp://www.diylife.com/2009/11/05/the-diy-reel-growing-herbs-for-kitchen-decor/http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~3/ZQw7kd6ekJI/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/05/reduce-speeding-on-your-street/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/05/reduce-speeding-on-your-street/#comments<p>Filed under: <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/recalls-and-safety/" rel="tag">recalls and safety</a></p><div class="classy"> <div class="captioncenter"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/madmetal/2208315035/" target="_blank"><img hspace="4" vspace="4" border="0" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.diylife.com/media/2009/11/2208315035_f4652bd398.jpg" alt="Toddler plays with skateboard, Flickr." /></a> <p>Photo: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/madmetal/2208315035/" target="_blank">madmetal, Flickr</a></p> </div> </div> Whaddya know? A guy attempts a little DIY traffic calming on his own street and gets attention from the cops. No, it's not because he was <a href="http://www.cockeyed.com/science/radar/radar.shtml" target="_blank">pointing a radar gun at passing cars</a>, but because of the pink tricycle he planted on the side of the road. Hmm.<br /> <br /> If you have a problem with speeding cars on your street, I'll concede it's not really practical to stand out there all day with a radar gun anyway. So here are some suggestions that might really work to solve your traffic issues once and for all.<br /> <br /> 1. Invest in a brightly colored <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Kidkusion-Driveway-Safety-Sign-Pack/dp/B0002KWTHK/ref=pd_bxgy_k_img_c" target="_blank">"kids at play" driveway sign</a>. I'm willing to bet these signs are more effective than the presence of actual children. Why? It's because the signs are designed to be all official-looking. Responsible drivers react automatically when they see a "go slow" reminder.<p><a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/05/reduce-speeding-on-your-street/" rel="bookmark">Continue reading <em>Reduce Speeding on Your Street</em></a></p><p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/05/reduce-speeding-on-your-street/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/forward/19223020/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/05/reduce-speeding-on-your-street/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/qhqt4FB2uYk7HxCDx3uDMAkjjVY/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/qhqt4FB2uYk7HxCDx3uDMAkjjVY/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/qhqt4FB2uYk7HxCDx3uDMAkjjVY/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/qhqt4FB2uYk7HxCDx3uDMAkjjVY/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~4/ZQw7kd6ekJI" height="1" width="1"/>speedingTrafficDiane RixonThu, 05 Nov 2009 12:00:00 ESThttp://www.diylife.com/2009/11/05/reduce-speeding-on-your-street/http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~3/mScSADeoKkY/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/05/daily-diy-how-to-make-a-pumpkin-facial-mask/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/05/daily-diy-how-to-make-a-pumpkin-facial-mask/#comments<p>Filed under: <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/beauty-and-skin-care/" rel="tag">beauty and skin care</a></p><div class="classy"> <div class="photocaption"><a href="http://shine.yahoo.com/event/fallbeauty/beauty-diy-pumpkin-face-and-body-mask-recipe-531482/" target="_blank"><img vspace="4" hspace="4" border="0" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.diylife.com/media/2009/11/pumpkin-power-bear296.jpg" alt="honey, cinnamon" /></a> <p>Photo: <a href="http://shine.yahoo.com/event/fallbeauty/beauty-diy-pumpkin-face-and-body-mask-recipe-531482/" target="_blank">Shine Yahoo!</a></p> </div> </div> I'm thinking of switching up the holidays this year and gifting presents for Thanksgiving, rather than Christmas. Why not offer up some <a href="http://shine.yahoo.com/event/fallbeauty/beauty-diy-pumpkin-face-and-body-mask-recipe-531482/" target="_blank">DIY pumpkin facial masks</a> to a few of your favorite lady friends? The tutorial is simple and easy to do:<br /> <br /> <strong>Pumpkin Face and Body Mask</strong><br /> * 1/2 cup canned pumpkin<br /> * 1/4 cup bentonite clay (available at health food stores)<br /> * 1 tbsp honey<br /> * 2 tbsp water<br /> * 1 tbsp almond oil<br /> * 2 tsp cinnamon<br /> <br /> Mix together and apply evenly to your face or anywhere else you'd like to smooth. Leave on 10 minutes before rinsing. Almond oil moisturizes, clay draws out impurities, honey replenishes collagen and cinnamon improves circulation.<br /> <br /> And guess what? "Pumpkin contains antioxidants such as vitamins A and C, as well as phytonutrients that help keep you looking young," says Michelle Schlekewey, spa director at Rancho Bernardo Inn in San Diego.<br /> <br /> An extra serving for me, please!<br /><p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/05/daily-diy-how-to-make-a-pumpkin-facial-mask/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/forward/19222270/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/05/daily-diy-how-to-make-a-pumpkin-facial-mask/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/oNn3UfAXwaSGYVR8b5_L5Bi_knQ/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/oNn3UfAXwaSGYVR8b5_L5Bi_knQ/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/oNn3UfAXwaSGYVR8b5_L5Bi_knQ/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/oNn3UfAXwaSGYVR8b5_L5Bi_knQ/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~4/mScSADeoKkY" height="1" width="1"/>almondsbeautycinnamondiyfacefacialfoodhoneymaskpumpkinErin LoechnerThu, 05 Nov 2009 09:00:00 ESThttp://www.diylife.com/2009/11/05/daily-diy-how-to-make-a-pumpkin-facial-mask/http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~3/VsxFVzLP7wY/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/04/holidash-highlight-a-corn-on-the-cob-cupcake/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/04/holidash-highlight-a-corn-on-the-cob-cupcake/#comments<p>Filed under: <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/food/" rel="tag">food</a>, <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/in-the-kitchen/" rel="tag">in the kitchen</a></p><div class="classy"> <div class="photocaption"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/brookfieldlibrary/2760438224/" target="_blank"><img vspace="4" hspace="4" border="0" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.diylife.com/media/2009/11/2760438224_2c487b50cc_b.jpg" alt="cupcakes, apron" /></a> <p>Photo: brookfieldlibrary, Flickr</p> </div> </div> <div class="photocaption">Yes, I was skeptical as well. But don't worry -- no veggies were harmed in the making of this cupcake. In fact, there are no veggies involved at all. Bonus! <a href="http://news.holidash.com/2009/10/28/cupcake-corn-on-the-cob-cupcake/" target="_blank">Holidash</a> has the scoop:</div> <br /> Sure, a vegetable-inspired cupcake sounds like heresy in the minds of dessert lovers everywhere, but with one bite of <a target="_blank" href="http://www.marthastewart.com/portal/site/mslo/menuitem.fc77a0dbc44dd1611e3bf410b5900aa0/?vgnextoid=b413c840f02f8110VgnVCM1000003d370a0aRCRD&amp;rsc=also_try_p1"><em>this</em> corn-on-the-cob</a>, you'll quickly change your tune. Go on; I dare you. The <a target="_blank" href="http://www.marthastewart.com/portal/site/mslo/menuitem.fc77a0dbc44dd1611e3bf410b5900aa0/?vgnextoid=b413c840f02f8110VgnVCM1000003d370a0aRCRD&amp;rsc=also_try_p1">Martha Stewart video</a> gives you step-by-step coverage, including a written tutorial, so the process couldn't be easier. And the ingredients, unlike many Martha Stewart creations, are far from gourmet. Here's the list:<br /> <br /> * Vanilla Frosting<br /> * Yellow liquid food coloring<br /> * 24 Vanilla Cupcakes, baked in white paper liners<br /> * 3 1/2 cups small yellow, cream, or white jelly beans, such as Jelly Belly<br /> * 4 pieces yellow fruit chews, such as Laffy Taffys or Starbursts<br /> * 1 tablespoon black decorating sugar<br /> * 1 tablespoon white decorating sugar<br /> * 8 sets of corn holders (optional)<br /> <br /> Go ahead; call your family and tell them you'll be bringing corn-on-the-cob for Thanksgiving dinner year. One less vegetable to make Fido scarf down underneath the table, and one more dessert to enjoy later! It's a win-win!<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/04/holidash-highlight-a-corn-on-the-cob-cupcake/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/forward/19222271/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/04/holidash-highlight-a-corn-on-the-cob-cupcake/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/H9n_IMA-IIww6r84-vYyGbVttrU/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/H9n_IMA-IIww6r84-vYyGbVttrU/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/H9n_IMA-IIww6r84-vYyGbVttrU/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/H9n_IMA-IIww6r84-vYyGbVttrU/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~4/VsxFVzLP7wY" height="1" width="1"/>cookingcorncupcakedessertholidashmartha stewartrecipetutorialvegetableErin LoechnerWed, 04 Nov 2009 15:00:00 ESThttp://www.diylife.com/2009/11/04/holidash-highlight-a-corn-on-the-cob-cupcake/http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~3/3SzPL2__G2w/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/04/find-swine-flu-h1n1-shots-in-your-area/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/04/find-swine-flu-h1n1-shots-in-your-area/#comments<p>Filed under: <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/health/" rel="tag">health</a></p><div class="classy"> <div class="captioncenter"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/sosalem/4037148607/" target="_blank"><img hspace="4" vspace="4" border="0" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.diylife.com/media/2009/11/4037148607_ef6e798588.jpg" alt="Flu shot banner, Flickr." /></a> <p>Photo: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/sosalem/4037148607/" target="_blank">so.salem, Flickr</a></p> </div> </div> Neighborhood Walgreen's not offering the swine flu (H1N1) shot? Never fear. The much-discussed national vaccine shortage is a reality ... sort of. (The government says it's more of a logistical problem than an actual shortage at this stage.) But it doesn't necessarily rule you or your kids out of the running for a dose.<br /> <br /> First, though, are you eligible? As of right now, the vaccine is on offer to folks considered <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/vaccination/public/vaccination_qa_pub.htm" target="_blank">high-risk for H1N1</a>: pregnant women, those 6 months old through 24 years, people who live with or care for children younger than 6 months old, healthcare and emergency medical services personnel, and people 25 through 64 years old with certain illnesses.<br /> <br /> <strong>Important Thing 1:</strong> People aged 65 and older are <em>not</em> included in the high-risk group unless they qualify via one of the other risk categories. Babies under 6 months of age are too young to receive the vaccine.<p><a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/04/find-swine-flu-h1n1-shots-in-your-area/" rel="bookmark">Continue reading <em>Find Swine Flu (H1N1) Shots in Your Area</em></a></p><p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href=http://www.flu.gov/individualfamily/vaccination/locator.html>Read</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/04/find-swine-flu-h1n1-shots-in-your-area/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/forward/19220685/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/04/find-swine-flu-h1n1-shots-in-your-area/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/3AH6oi4L0SfVthH9SNMGNPkZ4cA/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/3AH6oi4L0SfVthH9SNMGNPkZ4cA/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/3AH6oi4L0SfVthH9SNMGNPkZ4cA/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/3AH6oi4L0SfVthH9SNMGNPkZ4cA/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~4/3SzPL2__G2w" height="1" width="1"/>fluH1N1swine fluSwineFluvaccineDiane RixonWed, 04 Nov 2009 12:00:00 ESThttp://www.diylife.com/2009/11/04/find-swine-flu-h1n1-shots-in-your-area/http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~3/jDAw0Iyx-jo/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/04/daily-diy-a-rubbermaid-solution/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/04/daily-diy-a-rubbermaid-solution/#comments<p>Filed under: <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/food/" rel="tag">food</a>, <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/household-hacks/" rel="tag">household hacks</a>, <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/in-the-kitchen/" rel="tag">in the kitchen</a></p><div class="classy"> <div class="photocaption"><a href="http://blog.americanfeast.com/2007/11/" target="_blank"><img vspace="4" hspace="4" border="0" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.diylife.com/media/2009/11/salt-shaker.jpg" alt="salt, salt shaker" /></a> <p>Photo: American Feast</p> </div> </div> My Rubbermaid containers have lived through one too many pasta casseroles and are starting to smell like it, too. Naturally, I researched a few options on how to take the scent out of plastic and stumbled upon a great solution that I can't wait to try on my next set of Rubbermaids. <br /> <br /> Turns out that if you sprinkle a bit of salt in an empty airtight Rubbermaid container before you store it, you'll keep the smell at bay. Go on --- give it a shot and report back. ;)<br /> <br /> And yes, I realize <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/27/daily-diy-potato-potato/" target="_blank">we're talking salt yet again here at DIY Life</a>, but honestly --- can you ever get enough of the kitchen hacks? I certainly cannot, and just to show you how necessary a bit of sodium really is, here's another handy (and salty!) post to whet your whistle:<br /> -<a href="http://www.diylife.com/2008/03/21/make-your-own-toothpaste/" target="_blank">Make Your Own Toothpaste (YES! With salt!)<br /> </a><br /> Convinced?<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/04/daily-diy-a-rubbermaid-solution/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/forward/19219933/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/04/daily-diy-a-rubbermaid-solution/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/mWhyB1wzZgMblp5B4BhOynHIzOc/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/mWhyB1wzZgMblp5B4BhOynHIzOc/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/mWhyB1wzZgMblp5B4BhOynHIzOc/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/mWhyB1wzZgMblp5B4BhOynHIzOc/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~4/jDAw0Iyx-jo" height="1" width="1"/>kitchenplasticrubbermaidsaltstorageErin LoechnerWed, 04 Nov 2009 09:00:00 ESThttp://www.diylife.com/2009/11/04/daily-diy-a-rubbermaid-solution/http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~3/DCZrKGd3Upk/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/03/shelterpop-swap-stretch-your-bookcase-literally/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/03/shelterpop-swap-stretch-your-bookcase-literally/#comments<p>Filed under: <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/home-decor/" rel="tag">home decor</a>, <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/organization-and-storage/" rel="tag">organization and storage</a></p><div class="classy"> <div class="photocaption"><a href="http://www.coolthings.com/s-t-r-e-t-c-h-turns-giant-rubber-band-into-a-shelving-solution/" target="_blank"><img vspace="4" hspace="4" border="0" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.diylife.com/media/2009/11/stretchshelf2.jpg" alt="bookcase, rubber band, storage" /></a> <p>Photo: Cool Things</p> </div> </div> I'm all for innovative storage, especially when it comes to displaying my books. Face it -- bookcases can be so dull, especially when your budget calls for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/13690607">Billy</a> after <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/13690607">Billy</a> after...<a target="_blank" href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/13690607">Billy</a>. Luckily, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.shelterpop.com/2009/11/02/stretch-your-bookcase-literally/">ShelterPop has a great solution for a DIY bookcase</a> I can pretty much guarantee you've never seen!:<br /> <br /> Enter a fun and flexible (pun intended!) solution. Originally created for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/ny/design-showcase-2009/s-t-r-e-t-c-h-shelf-by-pete-oyler-design-showcase-2009-093964">Design Showcase 2009 by Pete Oyler</a>, the S T R E T C H Shelf is slated to hit boutiques any minute now with an approximate price point of $120.<br /> <br /> Eek. That certainly breaks the bank for me. But what if we used Oyler's product as inspiration for our own rubber band shelving system? I can imagine them working quite well in a modern, industrial space using <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ceramicshop.com/rubber-bands-p-2419.html">brightly-colored heavy duty rubber bands</a> and a few stainless screws.<br /> <br /> Or try a few <a href="http://www.wishingfish.com/animalbands.html" target="_blank">animal rubber bands</a> in your child's room as a great way to display light artwork. And for a long, floor-to-ceiling rubber band bookshelf, why not use a <a href="http://www.fwonline.com/lftbands.htm" target="_blank">bright resistance band</a> used for exercising? <br /> <br /> Forget the Billy and book it (ha! another pun!) to your nearest office supply store for the coolest rubber shelving in town. Stretching your dollar never looked so chic.<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/03/shelterpop-swap-stretch-your-bookcase-literally/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/forward/19218279/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/03/shelterpop-swap-stretch-your-bookcase-literally/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/39DQNcl4dhJLhF5Eo9y7isnYOdE/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/39DQNcl4dhJLhF5Eo9y7isnYOdE/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/39DQNcl4dhJLhF5Eo9y7isnYOdE/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/39DQNcl4dhJLhF5Eo9y7isnYOdE/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~4/DCZrKGd3Upk" height="1" width="1"/>bookcasebooksrubberrubber bandRubberBandshelterpopstoragestorage solutionErin LoechnerTue, 03 Nov 2009 15:00:00 ESThttp://www.diylife.com/2009/11/03/shelterpop-swap-stretch-your-bookcase-literally/http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~3/ayvfLBmfxzA/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/03/diy-and-save-last-minute-holiday-saving-strategy/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/03/diy-and-save-last-minute-holiday-saving-strategy/#comments<p>Filed under: <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/money/" rel="tag">money</a></p><div class="classy"> <div class="captioncenter"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/liz/332290592/" target="_blank"><img hspace="4" vspace="4" border="0" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.diylife.com/media/2009/11/332290592_bde3908670.jpg" alt="Christmas gifts under a Christmas tree, Flickr." /></a> <p>Photo: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/liz/332290592/" target="_blank">mamamusings, Flickr</a></p> </div> </div> You shop the sales. You've already reduced your holiday spending budget. But let's face it: the holidays are still going to cost you. Really smart budgeters contribute small amounts all year round to holiday savings accounts. For the rest of us, it's not too late! Here are some last minute ways to put money aside for holiday gifts.<br /> <br /> 1. Open a holiday account. No, it's not too late. Do you have any free funds sitting in your checking account? If so, transfer them immediately to your holiday fund. It's a start.<br /> <br /> 2. Cut the lattes. Yes, it's annoying when budgeting experts keep reminding us not to fritter money away on expensive little luxuries. If you like to indulge in little treats for yourself, however, now's the time to go cold turkey. Not forever. Just for the next few weeks, and put that money aside. It will add up over the next few weeks.<p><a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/03/diy-and-save-last-minute-holiday-saving-strategy/" rel="bookmark">Continue reading <em>DIY &amp; Save: Last-Minute Holiday Saving Strategy</em></a></p><p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href=http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/SavingandDebt/Advice/The13WorstHolidaySpendingBlunders.aspx>Read</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/03/diy-and-save-last-minute-holiday-saving-strategy/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/forward/19219044/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/03/diy-and-save-last-minute-holiday-saving-strategy/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/wDxorZB08EOAQ01_68LXYX9gzHE/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/wDxorZB08EOAQ01_68LXYX9gzHE/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/wDxorZB08EOAQ01_68LXYX9gzHE/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/wDxorZB08EOAQ01_68LXYX9gzHE/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~4/ayvfLBmfxzA" height="1" width="1"/>budgetChristmasholidayshoppingspendingDiane RixonTue, 03 Nov 2009 12:00:00 ESThttp://www.diylife.com/2009/11/03/diy-and-save-last-minute-holiday-saving-strategy/http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~3/I6sDOD9Mnyc/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/03/daily-diy-nail-polish-hack/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/03/daily-diy-nail-polish-hack/#comments<p>Filed under: <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/fix-it/" rel="tag">fix-it</a>, <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/household-hacks/" rel="tag">household hacks</a>, <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/beauty-and-skin-care/" rel="tag">beauty and skin care</a></p><div class="classy"> <div class="captioncenter"><a href="http://coolnailsart.ning.com/groups" target="_blank"><img vspace="4" hspace="4" border="0" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.diylife.com/media/2009/11/nail.preview.jpg" alt="nail polish" /></a> <p>Photo: Cool Nails Art</p> </div> </div> I hate cooking when I've got bandages on my fingers, because, in my opinion, nothing is grosser than a wet Band-Aid... especially when I'm hanging around food. Good thing I learned this awesome tip yesterday:<br /> <br /> If you've nicked yourself in the kitchen, clean the wound and disinfect, then let dry. Coat the cut with clear nail polish for a simple waterproof bandage that stays on for days!<br /> <br /> Of course, clear nail polish is good for quite a bit of things, including its well-known use for fixing a run in a pair of pantyhose, but did you know DIY Life has ten more awesome uses for nail polish? It's true; read more right here:<br /> <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2007/10/08/10-nifty-uses-for-nailpolish-one-for-each-finger/" target="_blank">-10 Nifty Uses for Nail Polish... One for Each Finger!</a><br /> <br /> My favorite tip? Avoid rust rings from a can of shower cream or shave gel by applying fingernail polish to the bottoms of the metal containers. Genius!<br /> <br /><p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/03/daily-diy-nail-polish-hack/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/forward/19218276/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/03/daily-diy-nail-polish-hack/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/xadvNS39AY32_lo1AuawX-YpdyA/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/xadvNS39AY32_lo1AuawX-YpdyA/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/xadvNS39AY32_lo1AuawX-YpdyA/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/xadvNS39AY32_lo1AuawX-YpdyA/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~4/I6sDOD9Mnyc" height="1" width="1"/>alternative-usesbandagenail polishNailPolishpolishrustErin LoechnerTue, 03 Nov 2009 09:00:00 ESThttp://www.diylife.com/2009/11/03/daily-diy-nail-polish-hack/http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~3/9YwaYJ-_soI/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/02/hownow-how-to-make-a-pinata/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/02/hownow-how-to-make-a-pinata/#comments<p>Filed under: <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/crafts/" rel="tag">crafts</a>, <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/entertaining/" rel="tag">entertaining</a>, <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/papercraft/" rel="tag">papercraft</a></p>Halloween has officially come and gone, and it's time to start thinking about more important things -- like Thanksgiving! I'd love to do something fun and festive this year and am highly considering a turkey pinata. After all, we'll need some candy to wash down all of that turkey, right? I spotted this easy <a target="_blank" href="http://www.howcast.com/videos/168683-How-To-Make-a-Pinata">DIY pinata video</a> and am ready to get my hands dirty in the name of the holiday!:<br /> <br /> <div class="embedded-howcast-video" style="text-align: center; font-size: 9px;"><object width="432" height="276" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" id="howcastplayer"><param name="movie" value="http://www.howcast.com/flash/howcast_player.swf?file=168683&amp;theme=black"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><param name="flashVars" value="&amp;fs=true"></param><embed src="http://www.howcast.com/flash/howcast_player.swf?file=168683&amp;theme=black" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="432" height="276" allowFullScreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" flashVars="&amp;fs=true"></embed></object><br /> <a class="embedded-playback-url" href="http://www.howcast.com/videos/168683-How-To-Make-a-Pinata" target="_blank" alt="How To Make a Pinata">How To Make a Pinata</a> on <a class="embedded-howcast-url" href="http://www.howcast.com" target="_blank" alt="www.howcast.com">Howcast</a><br /> <br /> </div> As you watch the video, keep a few important tips in mind:<br /> 1. Use plain white paper for the last layer so you have a clean base for decorating.<br /> 2. Acrylic and fabric paints work best.<br /> <br /> And, as usual, a bit of history to complement your project!:<br /> 1. The traditional Mexican pinata is an orb with seven cones attached to it, representing the seven deadly sins. The cones are topped with colorful streamers.<br /> 2. In Mexico, smashing open a pinata is a Christmas tradition.<br /> <br /> That's it, folks --- have fun and be safe!<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/02/hownow-how-to-make-a-pinata/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/forward/19217774/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/02/hownow-how-to-make-a-pinata/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/jXDSBsld36JwYIaQs9NYO1lSpQQ/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/jXDSBsld36JwYIaQs9NYO1lSpQQ/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/jXDSBsld36JwYIaQs9NYO1lSpQQ/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/jXDSBsld36JwYIaQs9NYO1lSpQQ/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~4/9YwaYJ-_soI" height="1" width="1"/>festivefestivitiespartypinatatraditionErin LoechnerMon, 02 Nov 2009 15:00:00 ESThttp://www.diylife.com/2009/11/02/hownow-how-to-make-a-pinata/http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~3/YRCxzroZsh4/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/02/unusual-uses-ziploc-bags-10-new-ways/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/02/unusual-uses-ziploc-bags-10-new-ways/#comments<p>Filed under: <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/organization-and-storage/" rel="tag">organization and storage</a></p><div class="classy"> <div class="captioncenter"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/36401696@N00/3213644016/" target="_blank"><img hspace="4" vspace="4" border="1" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.diylife.com/media/2009/11/3213644016_d8b1459020.jpg" alt="" /></a> <p>Photo: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/36401696@N00/3213644016/" target="_blank">Barkdog, Flickr</a></p> </div> </div> I put Ziploc bags up there with sliced bread in terms of usefulness. They're like the ultimate affordable organizing tool. If you're only using bags to freeze leftovers or tote sandwiches to work, you're missing out! Read on for 10 new ways to use Ziplocs:<br /> <br /> 1. Compact wet wipe storage. Like traveling light with your baby or toddler? Me, too. I never bought a bulky diaper bag and I also ditched the plastic wet wipes container early on. Instead, I always carry a baggy with a small stash of wipes, which takes up only the tiniest amount of space in my messenger bag.<br /> <br /> 2. <a href="http://www.wackyuses.com/ziploc.html" target="_blank">Diaper changing mat.</a> Speaking of diaper duty, a gallon or larger size Ziploc makes a perfect super-compact changing pad. No, it's not padded (unless you add an old t-shirt or something), but it will keep your tot's head off icky public diaper changing surfaces.<p><a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/02/unusual-uses-ziploc-bags-10-new-ways/" rel="bookmark">Continue reading <em>Unusual Uses: Ziploc Bags 10 New Ways</em></a></p><p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/02/unusual-uses-ziploc-bags-10-new-ways/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/forward/19218272/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/02/unusual-uses-ziploc-bags-10-new-ways/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/TcSXjC-6tvdIjD5WBfxfbT1UY7Y/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/TcSXjC-6tvdIjD5WBfxfbT1UY7Y/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/TcSXjC-6tvdIjD5WBfxfbT1UY7Y/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/TcSXjC-6tvdIjD5WBfxfbT1UY7Y/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~4/YRCxzroZsh4" height="1" width="1"/>bagsstorageziplocDiane RixonMon, 02 Nov 2009 12:00:00 ESThttp://www.diylife.com/2009/11/02/unusual-uses-ziploc-bags-10-new-ways/http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~3/h4XDUpSyt60/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/02/daily-diy-the-best-scrubbing-solution-ever/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/02/daily-diy-the-best-scrubbing-solution-ever/#comments<p>Filed under: <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/food/" rel="tag">food</a>, <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/household-hacks/" rel="tag">household hacks</a>, <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/in-the-kitchen/" rel="tag">in the kitchen</a></p><div class="classy"> <div class="captioncenter"><a href="http://www.smh.com.au/news/diet/drop-the-salt/2007/04/17/1176696818870.html" target="_blank"><img vspace="4" hspace="4" border="0" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.shelterpop.com/media/2009/10/salt_wideweb__470x308,0-1.jpg" alt="salt" /></a> <p>Photo: SMH</p> </div> </div> By now you should realize how much I love a good kitchen hack, especially when it includes items and ingredients I already have around the house. One of my favorites? Forget harsh detergents and solutions when scrubbing grease spots off your cast-iron cookware. Instead, grab a pinch of salt and a paper towel to create a salty solution that works wonders! <br /> <br /> Proof that sometimes the most natural ingredients are the best DIY lifesavers.<br /> <br /> Want to know some other ways a pinch of salt can make your life easier? Read on, right here at DIY Life:<br /> Find out the various uses of your average table salt: <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2007/08/05/the-many-uses-of-table-salt/" target="_blank">The Many Uses of Table Salt</a><br /> Spice up your beauty routine with salt: <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2007/07/19/make-your-own-salt-scrub/" target="_blank">Make Your Own Salt Scrub</a><br /> Salt for your green thumb: <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2008/03/24/epsom-salt-in-your-garden/" target="_blank">Epsom Salt in Your Garden</a><br /> And, lastly, salt in the kitchen (of course!): <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2008/06/04/make-sun-dried-tomatoes-in-the-microwave/" target="_blank">Make Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Your Microwave</a><p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/02/daily-diy-the-best-scrubbing-solution-ever/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/forward/19217772/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/02/daily-diy-the-best-scrubbing-solution-ever/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/nUqhpi_GzBrLeTx2rPuHFk-_cOw/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/nUqhpi_GzBrLeTx2rPuHFk-_cOw/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/nUqhpi_GzBrLeTx2rPuHFk-_cOw/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/nUqhpi_GzBrLeTx2rPuHFk-_cOw/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~4/h4XDUpSyt60" height="1" width="1"/>gardenhackkitchenrubbermaidsaltscrubtomatoesErin LoechnerMon, 02 Nov 2009 09:00:00 ESThttp://www.diylife.com/2009/11/02/daily-diy-the-best-scrubbing-solution-ever/http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~3/CDwm2vxSfvM/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/30/holidash-hightlight-diy-costumes-from-the-office/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/30/holidash-hightlight-diy-costumes-from-the-office/#comments<p>Filed under: <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/seasonal/" rel="tag">seasonal</a></p><div class="classy"> <div class="photocaption"><a href="http://news.holidash.com/2009/10/27/the-office-halloween-costumes/" target="_blank"><img vspace="4" hspace="4" border="0" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.diylife.com/media/2009/10/theoffice10-26-09slw.jpg" alt="costume, office, characters, actresses" /></a> <p>Photo: Getty Images</p> </div> </div> Yep, our friends at <a href="http://news.holidash.com/2009/10/27/the-office-halloween-costumes/" target="_blank">Holidash</a> even have you covered this Halloween. Whether you're a lover of DIY or a lover of TV (or perhaps a lover of John Krasinki, which is ... umm, every girl I know), <a href="http://news.holidash.com/2009/10/27/the-office-halloween-costumes/" target="_blank">Holidash</a> has a tip for your 'The Office'-inspired costume. Which character will you be this year?<br /> <br /> Read on!<br /> <br /> It seems everyone I know has a love/hate relationship with <a href="http://television.aol.com/show/the-office/152542/main" target="_blank">The Office</a>. I'm on the love end of the spectrum, perhaps because I'm living vicariously through the show. After all, I work in my pajamas at the kitchen counter, so wouldn't it be fun to channel my inner office employee for the day? <br /> <br /> For me, that day is October 31st, where I plan to trick-or-treat with a few friends as our favorite characters from The Office. Want to see the list?:<br /> <br /> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Halpert" target="_blank"><strong>Jim Halpert</strong></a><br /> <strong>Wear: </strong>Harness your Halloween look with <a href="http://mjjskully.deviantart.com/art/3-Hole-Punch-Jim-93627747" target="_blank">3-hole punched Jim</a>, or go as everyday Jim with a long-sleeved Oxford shirt and tie.<br /> <strong>Carry:</strong> A messenger bag and your heart on your sleeve.<br /> <strong>Finishing Touch?:</strong> A perfected Stanley impression and a few emergency packs of Jello.<br /> <br /> <a target="_blank" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pam_Halpert"><strong>Pam Beesley</strong></a><br /> <strong>Wear: </strong>An outdated work outfit, preferably button-up and longer skirt. Oh yes, and loafers. <br /> <strong>Carry:</strong> A 6-pack of Mixed Berry yogurt.<br /> <strong>Finishing Touch?:</strong> A half-up permed hairdo and plenty of harnessed flirtation.<br /> <br /> <a target="_blank" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Scott_%28The_Office%29"><strong>Michael Scott</strong></a><br /> <strong>Wear:</strong> A business suit and receding hairline.<br /> <strong>Carry: </strong>An unhealthy affection for your boss, <a target="_blank" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jan_Levinson">Jan Levinson</a>. And, of course, keys to your Sebring convertible.<br /> <strong>Finishing Touch?:</strong> Add a <a target="_blank" href="http://vlaze.com/12719">spare head</a> on your shoulder to harness Michael's Halloween look.<br /> <br /> <a target="_blank" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dwight_Schrute"><strong>Dwight Schrute</strong></a><br /> <strong>Wear: </strong>A yellow, short-sleeved Oxford shirt with a mismatched tie, brown slacks and glasses. <br /> <strong>Carry:</strong> A grudge against your nemesis, the 3-hole punched paper, Jim Halpert.<br /> <strong>Finishing Touch?:</strong> Pit stains. You didn't grow up on a beet farm for nothing.<br /> <br /> <a target="_blank" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kelly_Kapoor"><strong>Kelly Kapoor</strong></a><br /> <strong>Wear:</strong> Anything from <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bebe.com/">Bebe</a>.<br /> <strong>Carry:</strong> A perfectly-coordinated clutch purse to match your well-manicured nails.<br /> <strong>Finishing Touch?: </strong>Grab a random guy and make out with him. You know, to make Ryan jealous.<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/30/holidash-hightlight-diy-costumes-from-the-office/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/forward/19214227/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/30/holidash-hightlight-diy-costumes-from-the-office/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/2YhZyZ1ti6C_jigu01vvuylpAvA/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/2YhZyZ1ti6C_jigu01vvuylpAvA/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/2YhZyZ1ti6C_jigu01vvuylpAvA/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/2YhZyZ1ti6C_jigu01vvuylpAvA/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~4/CDwm2vxSfvM" height="1" width="1"/>costumecostumesdiyfashionhalloweenholidaystyleErin LoechnerFri, 30 Oct 2009 15:00:00 ESThttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/30/holidash-hightlight-diy-costumes-from-the-office/http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~3/if_U0Df2fq4/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/30/links-we-love-decor-for-dudes-and-candygrams/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/30/links-we-love-decor-for-dudes-and-candygrams/#comments<p>Filed under: <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/miscellaneous/" rel="tag">miscellaneous</a></p><div class="classy"> <div class="captioncenter"><a target="_blank" href="http://inchmark.squarespace.com/inchmark/2009/10/22/candygram.html"><img hspace="4" border="0" vspace="4" alt="Candygram, source: Inchmark" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.diylife.com/media/2009/10/candygram6.png" /></a> <p>Photo: <a target="_blank" href="http://inchmark.squarespace.com/inchmark/2009/10/22/candygram.html">Inchmark</a></p> </div> </div> <a target="_blank" href="http://inchmark.squarespace.com/inchmark/2009/10/22/candygram.html">Make a candygram</a> to show you care. Place a message inside a shallow box and fill with a single layer of colorful gumballs. Sweet. - Inchmark<br /> <br /> See <a target="_blank" href="http://www.allsorts.typepad.com/owlsorts/">Owlsorts' spooky mantelpieces</a> all decked out for Halloween. Check out the cute Halloween wind spinners, too! - Owlsorts<br /> <br /> Colorfully painted glass jars become light-hearted <a target="_blank" href="http://www.craftsbyamanda.com/2009/10/halloween-painted-jar-luminaries.html">Halloween luminaries</a>. Just add happy or sad Jack-o-lantern faces. - Crafts by Amanda via <a target="_blank" href="http://belladia.typepad.com/crafty_crow/2009/10/my-entry.html">The Crafty Crow</a><p><a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/30/links-we-love-decor-for-dudes-and-candygrams/" rel="bookmark">Continue reading <em>Links We Love: Decor for Dudes &amp; Candygrams</em></a></p><p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/30/links-we-love-decor-for-dudes-and-candygrams/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/forward/19212478/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/30/links-we-love-decor-for-dudes-and-candygrams/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/lMyoVj8i0lsQCQIZ_dzoatvt5T0/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/lMyoVj8i0lsQCQIZ_dzoatvt5T0/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/lMyoVj8i0lsQCQIZ_dzoatvt5T0/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/lMyoVj8i0lsQCQIZ_dzoatvt5T0/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~4/if_U0Df2fq4" height="1" width="1"/>craftsHalloweenIKEADiane RixonFri, 30 Oct 2009 12:00:00 ESThttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/30/links-we-love-decor-for-dudes-and-candygrams/http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~3/mRr_P1g1tog/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/30/daily-diy-onion-tears-no-more/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/30/daily-diy-onion-tears-no-more/#comments<p>Filed under: <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/food/" rel="tag">food</a>, <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/in-the-kitchen/" rel="tag">in the kitchen</a></p><div class="classy"> <div class="captioncenter"><a target="_blank" href="http://ppil4.wordpress.com/"><img vspace="4" hspace="4" border="0" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.diylife.com/media/2009/10/onion-1256773552.jpg" alt="onion" /></a> <p>Photo: PPIL4</p> </div> </div> I love DIY hacks in the kitchen. One of my favorites is this easy secret about cutting onions. To prevent the waterworks show when slicing this potent vegetable, simply hold your tongue on the roof of your mouth (but don't breathe through your nose!). You'll still be able to breathe, don't worry, but you won't have to explain to your guests that really, nothing's wrong -- it's the onions.<br /> <br /> Of course, there are a ton of other onion hacks for the kitchen, and most can be found right here at DIY Life. Let's take a look, shall we?:<br /> -For an instructional video including 5 tips for slicing onions without crying like a baby, visit <a target="_blank" href="http://www.diylife.com/2008/06/02/how-to-dice-an-onion/">How to Dice an Onion.</a><br /> -Sure, onions are full of flavor, but did you know they could juice up your iPod (literally?). Find out more at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.diylife.com/2007/11/27/charge-your-ipod-with-an-onion/">Charge Your iPod With an Onion.</a><br /> <br /> Clearly, onions just got a whole lot sweeter.<p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/30/daily-diy-onion-tears-no-more/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/forward/19214225/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/30/daily-diy-onion-tears-no-more/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/9wdv0sarnLcwlxeh1Y4gMpz_UHY/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/9wdv0sarnLcwlxeh1Y4gMpz_UHY/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/9wdv0sarnLcwlxeh1Y4gMpz_UHY/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/9wdv0sarnLcwlxeh1Y4gMpz_UHY/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~4/mRr_P1g1tog" height="1" width="1"/>cookcookingipodkitchenoniononionsErin LoechnerFri, 30 Oct 2009 09:00:00 ESThttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/30/daily-diy-onion-tears-no-more/http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~3/LMhY2a21VgQ/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/29/jack-o-lantern-longevity-tips/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/29/jack-o-lantern-longevity-tips/#comments<div class="classy"> <div class="captioncenter"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jeffk/741757073/" target="_blank"><img hspace="4" border="0" vspace="4" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.diylife.com/media/2009/10/741757073_c7cd4d469f.jpg" alt="Jack-o-lantern, Flickr" /></a> <p>Photo: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jeffk/741757073/" target="_blank">jeffk, Flickr</a></p> </div> </div> Planning the perfect Jack-O-Lantern this Halloween? Don't let your labors go to waste: preserve your pumpkin for as long as possible. Yes, there are ways to delay the spread of rot and mold ... and you may be surprised to find what really works the best!<br /> <br /> Now, there are lots of pumpkin preservation tips out there. <a href="http://thefuntimesguide.com/2005/10/prolong_pumpkin.php" target="_blank">Most popular suggestions</a> include greasing the pumpkin all over with Vaseline or white craft glue, or soaking it in a bleach solution. Others swear by coating your Jack with <a href="http://www.ehow.com/how_5532151_prevent-halloween-pumpkin-rotting.html" target="_blank">acrylic spray or just plain old hairspray</a>. You can even buy a special pumpkin-preserving spray called <a href="http://www.pumpkinfresh.com/" target="_blank">Pumpkin Fresh</a> for this very purpose.<br /> <br /> The debate has been greatly aided by <a href="http://www.myscienceproject.org/pumpkin.html" target="_blank">an experiment from the folks at the (very fun) site, My Science Project</a>. The conclusion: keep away from the white glue, Vaseline and acrylic spray. These substances encouraged mold to grow like crazy! The bleach solution was top for the first few days, but your best bets for longevity are a) apply Pumpkin Fresh or b) just leave your pumpkin au natural.<p><a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/29/jack-o-lantern-longevity-tips/" rel="bookmark">Continue reading <em>Jack-O-Lantern Longevity Tips</em></a></p><p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href=http://www.myscienceproject.org/pumpkin.html>Read</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/29/jack-o-lantern-longevity-tips/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/forward/19211489/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/29/jack-o-lantern-longevity-tips/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/SjM8JEWM2MtPdr_3vCh-J4G0Ovc/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/SjM8JEWM2MtPdr_3vCh-J4G0Ovc/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/SjM8JEWM2MtPdr_3vCh-J4G0Ovc/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/SjM8JEWM2MtPdr_3vCh-J4G0Ovc/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~4/LMhY2a21VgQ" height="1" width="1"/>halloweenjack-o-lanternpumpkinDiane RixonThu, 29 Oct 2009 12:00:00 ESThttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/29/jack-o-lantern-longevity-tips/http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~3/t8OZOwfoe2s/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/29/daily-diy-fruit-and-veggie-storage/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/29/daily-diy-fruit-and-veggie-storage/#comments<p>Filed under: <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/food/" rel="tag">food</a>, <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/in-the-kitchen/" rel="tag">in the kitchen</a></p><div class="classy"> <div class="captioncenter"><a href="http://www.tau.ac.il/~ecology/virtau/8-dror/research.html" target="_blank"><img vspace="4" hspace="4" border="0" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.diylife.com/media/2009/10/bright_red_tomato_and_cross_section02.jpg" alt="tomato, tomatoes, fruit" /></a> <p>Photo: TAU</p> </div> </div> Keeping tomatoes and citrus fruits in the fridge is a big no-no. Besides the fact that I hate cold tomatoes, their shelf life will be so much longer if it's not refrigerated. But did you realize that you should be storing them as far away from the refrigerator as possible? It's true --- keep tomatoes and citrus fruits away from the fridge (preferably on a sunny window's shelf) for the longest shelf life possible.<br /> <br /> I don't know why it works, but it does. You should see your fruit's shelf life almost double if you test the theory. Plus, your fruit will be juicier, which means it will taste yummier. Bonus!<br /> <br /> Want more kitchen hacks for smart food storage? Read on, friends:<br /> -Like to buy in bulk? You need a vacuum in the kitchen! <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2008/07/08/make-an-alvin-vacuum-sealer/" target="_blank">Make an 'Alvin' Vacuum Sealer.<br /> </a>-Want to know how to store cheese (and yes, there's a special way!). <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2008/06/24/cheese-theres-more-to-it-than-you-might-think/" target="_blank">Cheese: There's More to it Than You Think.</a><p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/29/daily-diy-fruit-and-veggie-storage/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/forward/19212272/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/29/daily-diy-fruit-and-veggie-storage/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/pbwRJw9aFAkiihnqL4ckgXTY3zs/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/pbwRJw9aFAkiihnqL4ckgXTY3zs/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/pbwRJw9aFAkiihnqL4ckgXTY3zs/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/pbwRJw9aFAkiihnqL4ckgXTY3zs/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~4/t8OZOwfoe2s" height="1" width="1"/>citrusfoodfruitkitchenorangerefrigeratorstoragetomatotomatoesErin LoechnerThu, 29 Oct 2009 09:00:00 ESThttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/29/daily-diy-fruit-and-veggie-storage/http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~3/hraGH8dTCls/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/28/holidash-highlight-how-to-throw-a-last-minute-halloween-party/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/28/holidash-highlight-how-to-throw-a-last-minute-halloween-party/#comments<p>Filed under: <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/entertaining/" rel="tag">entertaining</a></p><div class="classy"> <div class="captioncenter"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/16145231@N07/1865710542/in/set-72157602920930614/" target="_blank"><img vspace="4" hspace="4" border="0" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.diylife.com/media/2009/10/1865710542_234357aae1_o.jpg" alt="head, platter, table" /></a> <p>Photo: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/16145231@N07/1865710542/in/set-72157602920930614/" target="_blank">cakeasaurus, Flickr</a></p> </div> </div> Decided to host a few friends over this weekend? <a href="http://news.holidash.com/2009/10/26/halloween-party-last-minute/" target="_blank">Holidash shows you how to throw together a Halloween party... in 24 hours or less!:</a><br /> <br /> Queen of procrastination here, and as usual, I'm spreading the gospel of how to handle your habit of last-minute planning (not that I'm encouraging you to postpone your responsibilities, but hey -- we all have to embrace our flaws, right?). If you're not a fan of impromptu party-planning, feel free to roll your capable eyes and ignore everything I write. But -- if you're <em>normal</em> and it's slipped your mind that you've invited the neighborhood moms over for dinner and a trick-or-treating send-off (not that I'm speaking from experience or anything...), listen up. This one's for you:<br /> <br /> <strong>How to Throw a Last-Minute Halloween Party</strong><br /> <br /> <strong> Decor:</strong><br /> Gather a few items from around your home that could easily double as seasonal decor. I once decorated an entire table setting with items from my garage, so it can be done. Think creatively: a kaleidoscope as a vase, chalkboard as a menu, vintage scarves as placemats. Or, if you have a bit of time on your hands for a quick craft, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.shelterpop.com/2009/10/20/a-spider-web-table-runner/">ShelterPop shows you how to whip up a quick spider web table runner out of some black felt</a>. Don't have felt? Use your husband's sweatpants. Trust me; he won't notice.<br /> <br /> <strong> Food:</strong><br /> Can you say 'take out?' Order some chow mein and label a place card with the words "monster brains." An egg roll doubles as "troll's fingers" and the fortune cookie? Let's just rename that "message from Hell." Serve some store-bought apple cider and put the coffee pot on --- it's gonna be a late night getting those sugar-infused kiddies to bed...<br /> <br /> <strong> Games:</strong><br /> Does anyone really enjoy games anymore? I suppose you could bob for the proverbial apples, or celebrate old school with a fun game of Old Maid. The most important form of entertainment is conversation, so put on your hostess hat and have fun!<br /> <br /> See how easy that was? Forget changing your ways; procrastination isn't such a bad thing after all!<br /><p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/28/holidash-highlight-how-to-throw-a-last-minute-halloween-party/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/forward/19212294/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/28/holidash-highlight-how-to-throw-a-last-minute-halloween-party/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/99wc_WKPMJPXthwUEGp6r3VSz18/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/99wc_WKPMJPXthwUEGp6r3VSz18/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/99wc_WKPMJPXthwUEGp6r3VSz18/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/99wc_WKPMJPXthwUEGp6r3VSz18/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~4/hraGH8dTCls" height="1" width="1"/>celebrateentertaininghalloweenholidashpartyErin LoechnerWed, 28 Oct 2009 15:00:00 ESThttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/28/holidash-highlight-how-to-throw-a-last-minute-halloween-party/http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~3/rVNhtV9pGK4/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/28/free-grocery-list-templates-and-printables/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/28/free-grocery-list-templates-and-printables/#comments<p>Filed under: <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/organization-and-storage/" rel="tag">organization and storage</a></p><div class="classy"> <div class="captioncenter"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/cesarastudillo/2800105656/" target="_blank"><img hspace="4" border="1" vspace="4" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.diylife.com/media/2009/10/2800105656_a981996975.jpg" alt="" /></a> <p>Photo: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/cesarastudillo/2800105656/" target="_blank">cesarastudillo, Flickr</a></p> </div> </div> Say goodbye to crumpled Post-its in your purse. Say hello to streamlined grocery shopping: try one (or more) of these free grocery list templates and printables. They'll help you to help yourself keep track of your purchases. We all need a little organizational help sometimes, right?<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.grocerywiz.com/" target="_blank">Grocery Wiz is a fun way to plan your shopping</a> and a wonderful way to <strike>waste time</strike> get organized. Click on a category, such as "Frozen Foods" or "Cleaning Supplies" and you can check off the items you need and add notes. Best of all, the site automatically matches items with available coupons!<br /> <br /> Laura, <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2009/04/free-grocery-list-template.html" target="_blank">aka The Organizing Junkie, shares her shopping template</a> with the world. It's my top pick: lots of white space means more room for scribbling. While you're there, check out Laura's other links and additional downloads, including a menu planner and family travel checklist templates.<p><a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/28/free-grocery-list-templates-and-printables/" rel="bookmark">Continue reading <em>Free Grocery List Templates &amp; Printables</em></a></p><p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/28/free-grocery-list-templates-and-printables/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/forward/19210602/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/28/free-grocery-list-templates-and-printables/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/bNOTTnEU-_ciulwVqXdlVvX1AkU/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/bNOTTnEU-_ciulwVqXdlVvX1AkU/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/bNOTTnEU-_ciulwVqXdlVvX1AkU/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/bNOTTnEU-_ciulwVqXdlVvX1AkU/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~4/rVNhtV9pGK4" height="1" width="1"/>groceryshoppingshopping listShoppingListtemplatesDiane RixonWed, 28 Oct 2009 12:00:00 ESThttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/28/free-grocery-list-templates-and-printables/http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~3/H4WNrpjOmWw/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/28/daily-diy-stainless-blade-hack/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/28/daily-diy-stainless-blade-hack/#comments<p>Filed under: <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/food/" rel="tag">food</a>, <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/household-hacks/" rel="tag">household hacks</a>, <a href="http://www.diylife.com/category/in-the-kitchen/" rel="tag">in the kitchen</a></p><div class="classy"> <div class="photocaption"><a href="http://www.smileosmile.com/science/ten-common-phenomena-explained/" target="_blank"><img vspace="4" hspace="4" border="0" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.diylife.com/media/2009/10/onions.jpg" alt="onions, fingers, hand, knife, blade, onion" /></a> <p>Photo: Smile O Smile</p> </div> </div> Wow, that sounds a lot more harsh than necessary. Did you realize that you can remove the scent of onions and garlic from your fingers by gently sliding the face of a stainless knife across them? Sounds like a joke, but it's true! Gently is the operative word, guys -- unless you'd like to get a bit bloody for Halloween this year.<br /> <br /> And yes, it's kitchen hack week here at DIY Life. For more fun and inventive ways to make things easier for you in the kitchen, check out a few of my favorite DIY Life articles below!:<br /> <br /> 1. Out of cleaning supplies and no time to re-stock? <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/08/31/daily-diy-clean-your-entire-kitchen-with-1-lemon/" target="_blank">Clean your entire kitchen with one lemon.</a><br /> 2. Have an extra towel rack laying around and collecting dust? <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2008/03/28/ikea-towel-rail-hack/" target="_blank">Turn your IKEA towel rack into a condiment spice shelf.</a><br /> 3. Learn your freezer know-how: <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/09/15/diy-and-save-20-foods-that-freeze-surprisingly-well-and-20-that/" target="_blank">20 Foods That Freeze Surpisingly Well... and 20 That Don't.</a><p style="clear: both; padding: 8px 0 0 0; height: 2px; font-size: 1px; border: 0; margin: 0; padding: 0;"> </p><p><a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/28/daily-diy-stainless-blade-hack/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent link to this entry">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/forward/19210538/" title="Send this entry to a friend via email">Email this</a> | <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/28/daily-diy-stainless-blade-hack/#comments" title="View reader comments on this entry">Comments</a></p> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/caKB32HdbMpymqW128NDeM9tk5o/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/caKB32HdbMpymqW128NDeM9tk5o/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/caKB32HdbMpymqW128NDeM9tk5o/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/caKB32HdbMpymqW128NDeM9tk5o/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/weblogsinc/diylife/~4/H4WNrpjOmWw" height="1" width="1"/>bladefoodfoodsgarlichackkitchenknifeonionsscentsmellErin LoechnerWed, 28 Oct 2009 09:00:00 ESThttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/28/daily-diy-stainless-blade-hack/