Rose Cottage Ltd

Just in case you’re looking for some real shopping values this Labor Day Weekend, here are a few ideas to get you started. No matter what your plans, please make it a safe and happy weekend!

And From Sierra Trading Post – An extra 20 – 30% OFF – this weekend only!

Fall Bulbs and nearly any item you need for your cooler weather activities – at Garden.com!

Amazing savings on some of the latest products available…

Happy Shopping and Happy Saving!

The Aran “jumper” is a style of jumper/sweater that takes its name from the Aran Islands off the west coast of Ireland. It is sometimes known as a fisherman’s jumper. A classical fisherman’s jumper is a bulky garment with prominent cable patterns on the chest, often cream-colored – the traditional white or off-white báinín.

The jumpers are distinguished by their use of complex textured stitch patterns, several of which are combined in the creation of a single garment. The word choice of “jumper” or “sweater” (or indeed other options such as “pullover” and “jersey”) is largely determined by the regional version of English being spoken. In the case of Ireland and Britain, “jumper” is the standard word with “sweater” mainly found in tourist shops. The word used in Irish is geansaí, a gaelicization of guernsey which has been re-Anglicised to gansey in Hiberno-English, and as we know them, our good old warm and cozy “sweater” in the US!

Originally the jumpers were knitted using unscoured wool that retained its natural oils (lanolin) which made the garments water-resistant and meant they remained wearable even when wet. It was primarily the wives of island fishermen who knitted the jumpers.

Here are some other fine examples…

Cozy, warm and versatile, this Merino Wool Aran Cardigan is sure to become your cool-weather favorite. Full zip.

Choose from two popular colors: Charcoal and Beige Fleck.

Sizes: M, L, XL, 2XL.

Now here’s a product that is always welcome on my sofa!

Aran Throw

Knit in a stunning patchwork of traditional Aran stitches this throw and cover are sumptuously soft in 100% merino wool.

Made in Ireland.
Size: 42″x60″

Keep your legs warm on windy days, and the rest of you feels warmer too!

The Aran Coat transforms the class Aran sweater into a stylish versatile coat to warm body and spirit. The easy, unconstructed fit is expertly knit of 100% merino wool in a captivating array of stitches.

Length: 39”
Made in Ireland
Sizes: S, M, L, XL.

I’ve ordered two Aran sweaters from Shop Irish and I have my eye on a third for this coming Fall 2012…Great products and a great vendor – just FYI.

I got a new pair of boots early last Fall that ended up being worth their weight in gold. You can read my review on them here.

While they take care of the “boots required” moments of working on this 7-acre property, I need a good mid-range pair of shoes – not sneakers, not flip-flops, but something that I can wear on those quick trips out with the new puppy. He “goes” outside – a lot!

This Patagonia Mid Gore-Tex Boot might be just what I need. Also available for Men…

Patagonia’s mid boot is packed with features. This ultralightweight backpacking boot is made from durable top grain waterproof leather. The mesh lining and collar is highly breathable and dries quickly. Super lightweight arch shank offers support and protection underfoot. The EVA footframe and built-in shock distribution plate provide rearfoot stability without sacrificing forefoot flexibility. Dual-density Vibram rubber sole with 50% recycled rubber lends maximum braking, stability, and traction. The boot has a semi-curved last, medium width, medium arch support, and a performance fit.

These Men’s Breathable Walking Shoes have the quick on-and-off flexibility I need.

The inner elastic gore on these leather walking shoes adjusts to keep you comfortable through a long day of exploring. Shoes feature removable foot beds, midsole traction, and a rubber outsole. The full-grain uppers are tanned and stitched in Spain, and treated with a water-resistant finish.

Here’s a comfy-looking pair of shoes – and if I take any airport-level trips this year, the slip-on aspect will come in handy there as well!

Otago Slip-on Shoes advertise their comfort with an outer elastic gore that weaves through a padded tongue. Other features that will keep you sightseeing include a removable, suede-covered cork and latex foot bed, so aching feet won’t prevent you from taking the scenic route. Suede with glossy leather accents. Handmade in Israel by Naot®.

Available in Brown or Black.

These are quality shoes that fit all of my requirements. I broke a bone in my right foot way back in high school days that is giving me more and more trouble as I walk more and more steps. I’m looking for support and stability. If they happen to look good – great. If they last a few solid years – BETTER!

These shoes are all offered by National Geographic. Products for people who spend a LOT of time walking and hiking!

Hard to believe but next weekend is Labor Day weekend. Three weekends later, Fall arrives on September 22, 2012.

Found this map that might prove helpful if you are thinking about a trip to the country this Fall to “Peep” at some leaves!

Don’t forget! Only another week or so for your chance to win the ProblemSolvers $300 Shopping Spree…

Happy Weekend!

DIY – Do It Yourself.

I’m all for DIY whenever possible. Think that is fairly obvious from the stucco series and paver stone sections of the blog if nothing else. I was probably the kid that said, “Let ME do it” as the first phrase I ever spoke. However, there are one or two issues regarding DIY projects I feel I should mention.

++ DIY often means working on a project with family members and/or friends.

This can sometimes lead you straight back to DIY – doing it yourself, since no one else shows up to assist. As long as you are aware of this potential you won’t get discouraged or be too disappointed. But I can tell you, spending more than one valuable Saturday waiting around for someone who doesn’t show up to help can feel very defeating. There are portions of nearly every DIY project that require an extra pair of hands. Plan on some tasks to do alone – in case you find yourself – by yourself some sunny Saturday afternoon.

++ Not everyone will adhere to a schedule.

I’m a former Information Technology Project Manager. It said so on my resume and I even had it (PMP) certified. My life is organized like one big project. I like deadlines. I like milestones. I like finishing a project early (and under budget) if possible. Imagine my surprise to find the general world does not work this way and that those assisting on one or two of my projects had NO IDEA that I actually expected them to get finished at some point before my death.

This divergence in planning styles can be especially frustrating when working with family members. Patience is NOT my middle name and there have been days when having a trowel with a sharp, pointy end in my hand was just not a good idea.

++ Budgets, and Focus

Unless you’ve taken out some huge construction or home improvement loan, the costs involved in your DIY project may feel a bit overwhelming at times. As weeks turn into months, the fact that you agreed to not take a vacation this year in order to use the funds to complete a DIY project may still motivate you, but not your partner(s). By now they’re seeing pictures of their friends who DID take a vacation this year – and when they look at the project, it’s still not finished. They can’t sit on the patio yet, or can’t swim in the pool, or can’t use their new outside kitchen.

Someone will have to play cheerleader at this point or you’ll lose focus. Sometimes just taking a weekend break will be enough to stop the mid-project doldrums.

But have no fear. As long as one person can still visualize the dream project, whatever it is, and can maintain patience on the days when little or nothing seems to go right or is completed, you’ll still have probably saved thousands of dollars, and be able to enjoy for decades – a DIY job well done.

It’s around this time of year that I really miss being outside. This may sound a bit odd since it is Summer not Winter, but heat and humidity make sitting or cooking or relaxing outside not always so pleasant.

But have no fear – Fall weather and temperatures are ON THE WAY! I’ll have about a month before I have to blow the cobwebs off the Makita to start making firewood for the wood stove and time when I can just enjoy the property without ticks, snakes, etc., etc.

This is also a good time to ponder the use of outdoor spaces yet again. What is your usage of YOUR outdoor space, Summer, Fall, Winter, and Spring? How did you use your yard and garden this season? Are you wishing you had a handy outdoor kitchen or maybe even an outdoor television to watch college and NFL pre-season games?

The 46″ HD All-Weather Outdoor LCD TV might be a nice addition. And if you have a smaller space, have a look at the 32″ HD All-Weather Outdoor LCD TV.

I can always use some outdoor design ideas so I’m sharing a few of the links I use to get the brain cells pumping.

++ Outdoor Kitchens
++ 32 Outdoor Room Design Ideas
++ Outdoor Living Rooms (some great concrete ideas here!)
++ Landscape Design Ideas and the sub-category…
++ Landscaping for Privacy
++ Outdoor Showers
++ Outdoor Furniture

Happy Pondering, Happy Friday, and the first day of Fall is…September 22nd…

Now through August 31, 2012, register to enter the Problem Solvers® $300 Shopping Spree Sweepstakes – NO purchase necessary!

While you’re there, and especially if you are in a hurricane-prone location, remember to check your current emergency supplies like flashlights and portable radios. September and October are almost always the most active month for sudden, land-impacting hurricanes.

Here are a few other suggestions – all available from Problem Solvers®…

Every home should have one of these Emergency Kits.

This compact Emergency Kit contains 58 essential items to keep you safe during emergencies.

Everything is organized in a deluxe padded case for quick access. Keep one at home and another in the car. Each kit includes: • Preparedness guide • First aid kit with manual • Drinking water packets • Emergency food bars • Waterproof matches • Small tools and other items crucial to remaining safe in potentially dangerous situations.

This American Red Cross Rover Self-Powered Weather Radio is tiny but efficient!

Features flashlight and USB cell phone charger that transfers energy to your device. AM/FM, NOAA weatherband (all 7 channels). Self-powered aluminum crank with direct USB power transfer (includes USB cable). A portion of every sale benefits the American Red Cross charities.• Rover Self-Powered Radio with crank • AM (520-1710 KHz) and FM (87-108MHz)• NOAA weatherband—all 7 channels• Built-in 3 white LED light source• Self-Powered aluminum dynamo hand crank that generates massive power• USB cell phone charger (USB cable not included)• 3.5 mm headphone output• Includes owner’s manual, warranty card.

Size: 2-1/2″H x 5-1/2″L

Now here’s a handy item:

A Solar/Crank Emergency Radio is essential for your emergency preparedness kit. When the weather turns bad and the power goes out, this compact, handy radio with light will give you safety, information and peace of mind.

Two power options for versatility and ease • Solar-powered or hand-crank for hours of use • Digital radio keeps you informed of weather and emergencies• AM/FM radio, plus seven NOAA weather bands• Built-in LED flashlight• USB cell phone charger • Battery charge indicator • Handy carabiner lets you hang or attach it • Great for car, home, cabin and more.

Size: 5-1/4″W x 1-3/4″D x 2-1/2″H

Available Colors: Green or Orange

The Emergency Beacon/Lantern clings To any metal surface.

With its waterproof design, uLite brings you dependable illumination in any weather. Keep one in the car or boat for reliable emergency light anytime you need it. Three-way lighting system provides 100 Lumen light, a vibrant Beacon light and a Lantern all in one. Waterproof emergency light• Portable• Three-way light provides 100 lumen light, beacon light and lantern• Complete charging kit includes 3 AAA NiMH batteries, 2-way charging stand via AC or USB, 110/220V adapter for worldwide travel.

Size: 3-3/4″H x 2-3/4″L x 1-3/4″ W

I hate to tell “tales” on Cato, but as a young puppy with sharp teeth and claws, he tends to get in what I call a “play frenzy” every once and awhile. Unfortunately, his idea of “play” and mine are frequently two different things.

It’s also very hard to get him calmed down once one of these moments occurs. If I had anything planned to do that takes concentration I can forget it. Yesterday morning I was on a conference call for about 45 minutes and with Cato in play mode – was about at my wit’s end. But, what doesn’t kill you really does make you stronger and I found out that some music, when played around an excitable dog, DOES CALM THEM DOWN. In the case of “Music My Pet” – linked to the right, the result was nearly instantaneous!

Here’s a 10-minute YouTube sample if you need emergency assistance like I did yesterday!

I’ve already ordered the CD. Cato and I will be heading out for our next Vet appointment before the end of the month and I plan to have everything I need to make the car ride and the Vet visit a success – for both of us!

Just be warned…this music is so calming, you may soon find yourself asleep at the keyboard!

I wrote a post Tuesday about the joys (and trials) of having a new puppy. Yesterday was Cato’s first big trip to the Vet and I’m happy to report that the leather seats in my Mini Cooper remain intact!

I did have a conversation with the Vet about feeding and bloat and the preferred bowls to use to avoid this often fatal situation. First, a definition of bloat so over to Wikipedia:

“Gastric dilatation volvulus or bloat is a medical condition in which the stomach becomes overstretched by excessive gas content. It is also commonly referred to as torsion and gastric torsion when the stomach is also twisted. The word bloat is often used as a general term to cover gas distension of the stomach with or without twisting. The name comes from the Middle English blout, meaning soft or puffed, which is from the Old Norse blautr, meaning soft or soaked.

In dogs, gas accumulation in the stomach is usually associated with volvulus of the stomach, which prevents gas from escaping. Deep-chested breeds are especially at risk. Mortality rates in dogs range from 10 to 60 percent, even with treatment. With surgery, the mortality rate is 15 to 33 percent.”

Yikes.

I had used a raised, or elevated bowl for CoCo ever since I first got him in 2002. At the time, elevating the bowl was supposed to be better for the dog’s ability to swallow and to aid in digestion. It sounded good then and according to my vet, it’s still a good thing.

So then I asked the Vet about “slow-feed” bowls. I wasn’t sure if this was just the latest “new” thing or not. Apparently, depending on your dog’s type, and whether or not his or her breed is deep-chested, these slow-feed bowls CAN keep your dog from eating too fast, swallowing too much air, and possibly developing bloat.

My Vet also said that dogs that eat fast – even if they are not one of the deep-chested breeds like Mastiffs or Great Danes, can still benefit from eating slower – bloat or not.

I had figured out around Day Three with Cato that he is definitely a “chow-hound” who likes to gobble his food. I’m not sure WHO he thinks will eat it if he doesn’t, but he does eat fast, and eats everything in his bowl. This may change once he gets a bit older and I may move him to the elevated bowls but last weekend I ordered one of the slow-feed bowls as well.

It arrived today and as you can see from the image, Cato was more than willing to be a “spokesmodel” for the product! He seemed to circle the bowl a bit more than usual to make sure he left nothing behind. This alone slowed down his eating process.

Cato is a Weimaraner/Lab mix – Weimaraners being one of the top 5 breeds prone to bloat – I figured for around $20, it was worth it to purchase this slow-feed bowl. This particular model has a little rubber edge to it which will also keep it from sliding all around the floor while he eats – which is comical to me, but probably annoying to him!

Find out more about bloat and breed susceptibility.

Now that Cato, (10 weeks old) is getting stronger he is starting to test access to my sofa. I’ve never minded my dog sitting on the sofa with me, but with his sharp little claws and those tiny puppy teeth, I fear a minute’s inattention on my part may spell doom.

Plow & Hearth to the rescue!

This Personalized Pet Loveseat Cover should do the trick and there is a size for sofas as well. Colors available are: Blue, Chocolate and Taupe.

Sizes:
~ Loveseat Measures 87-1/2″W x 46-3/4″D
~ Couch Measures 112″W x 36-3/4″D

Machine-washable and you can even have it personalized with your pet’s name (up to 10 letters) FREE!

For around $60 for the loveseat size and $80 for the sofa cover, this is a smart investment in the future of my puppy AND my sofa!

More soon on the feeding bowl controversy. Ten years ago, raised bowls were supposed to be better. Now I’m hearing “slow feed” bowls will keep dogs from gulping their food and potentially developing a deadly situation called “bloat.”