If you are wondering how to build a floating deck, you’ve come to the right place. A floating deck is an inexpensive, freestanding platform that is surprisingly easy to build. The deck floats just above the ground atop preformed concrete blocks. It is not difficult to build, and it can be installed in most lawn or garden areas. Raising the deck off the ground allows the wood to dry out after rainstorms, helping it to last longer. The simple act of stepping up onto a platform helps establish a sense of place in the landscape. Elevating the floating deck also accommodates unique design elements. In the project described in detail below, we built a deck that cantilevers over a water garden. The floating deck is attractive, and it creates a serene gathering spot where the landscape can be enjoyed. How to Build a Floating Deck: Materials Needed The tools and materials specified below are required to build a floating deck that is 10 feet by 10 feet. Adjust board lengths … [Read more...] about How to Build a Floating Deck
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Fresh Pesto Appetizer with Tomato and Mozzarella Slices
This fresh pesto appetizer with tomato and mozzarella slices might be my favorite appetizer of all time. It’s easy to make, and virtually everyone seems to like it. Fresh pesto is an Italian classic that is popular around the world. The star of a great pesto is the fresh basil, and basil is one of my favorite herbs. (See below for tips on how to grow your own fresh basil.) And when you add fresh pesto to tomato slices and mozzarella slices, you have the ultimate Italian appetizer! I like to make the pesto ahead of time and keep it chilled in the refrigerator. Then, when guests arrive, I assemble the tomato and mozzarella slices. I add a dollop of pesto to the top of each stack. The appetizers are ready in minutes. Warm fresh pesto appetizers right out of the oven. Yum! How to Make My Fresh Pesto Appetizer with Tomato and Mozzarella Slices Pesto Ingredients 2 cups basil leaves ¼ cup pine nuts 2 cloves of garlic 2/3 cup olive oil ½ cup grated … [Read more...] about Fresh Pesto Appetizer with Tomato and Mozzarella Slices
Easy-to-Bake Lemon Tangelo Meringue Pie
A delicious Lemon Tangelo Meringue Pie is a variation on the classic lemon meringue pie. If there is a Dessert Hall of Fame, surely the lemon meringue pie is inducted. It’s delicious. It looks great. And it’s not hard to make—it just looks like it would be hard to make. The lemon meringue pie is so awesome it even has its own Wikipedia page. When you bake a lemon meringue pie, people are impressed. So, imagine the kudos you’ll get when you bake a Lemon Tangelo Meringue Pie. Whoa! Your friends and family with think you just got back from a pastry-making class in Paris. The list of ingredients is in the graphic below. I have also included a link to my video on YouTube that shows all the steps in making this delicious dessert. Helpful Instructions for Making a Lemon Tangelo Meringue Pie When I make this Lemon Tangelo Meringue Pie, I make it gluten free. So, I buy a gluten-free pie crust from the natural foods market. Feel free to use a regular pie crust if you would … [Read more...] about Easy-to-Bake Lemon Tangelo Meringue Pie
Six Affordable Ways to Update Your Home
Whether you’re selling your home or merely looking for a change in your environment, there may come a time when you decide to make some updates to your home. Yes, it is easy to put off the task because of the potential cost and time needed for renovating. But there are many ways to spruce things up without breaking the bank. You’ll also find that you can do these projects little by little so that you don’t have to make major adjustments to your schedule. To help you out, here is a list of affordable ways to update your home. 1. Look at Color Trends Before you make any purchases or updates, examine current color trends. Right now, cool neutrals are popular in homes for both new properties and remodeling existing homes. Using these neutral colors can make a home seem clean and modern. Start your renovation process by repainting your walls, windowsills, and doors. If the walls have any minor dents, you can fill them in with toothpaste before going over them with paint. … [Read more...] about Six Affordable Ways to Update Your Home
Easy Tips for a Low Cost Room Makeover
Are you tired of your home or apartment? Do you look around your place and get the blahs? It may be time for a low cost room makeover. Don't worry, because you can create the feel of a fresh room makeover without spending a ton of money. Decorating on a budget can even be fun. A little creativity can stretch a few dollars into a Pinterest-worthy interior. Just remember the 3 P’s of a fast, low cost room makeover. I’m talking about paint, pillows and plants. Here are a few thoughts and inspirations to get you started on a room makeover that won’t break your bank account. Low Cost Room Makeover Tip #1: Paint is Cheap One of the least expensive and easiest ways to upgrade a room interior is with paint. That’s right, a gallon or two of paint. A coat of fresh paint in a new color can give an instant face-lift to an otherwise tired or ordinary room. My favorite way to make a big impact with paint is to buy one gallon of paint in a dramatic jewel-tone color. Select a … [Read more...] about Easy Tips for a Low Cost Room Makeover
