Rose Cottage Ltd

It’s been an incredibly warm winter season so far in North Carolina. This past few days have been dreary as well with cloudy and overcast days that still do not bring as much rain as the lake really needs – thanks to the drought of 2011. Much of Europe is struggling with extreme cold – so no time to complain!

But, there are still some “scenic” moments like this one early yesterday:

The most constant local question these days seems to be “When are we going to pay for all this warm weather?” I’ll take a cold snap soon or otherwise ticks and mosquitoes will be rampant, Spring and Summer 2012.

In the meantime, birds are going crazy around here! I have a steady supply of Chickadees, Cardinals, Titmouse, Wrens, Nuthatches, and assorted other “visitors.”

This could be a top season for bird feeding at Rose Cottage…good thing I was ready!

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I wrote a post a couple weeks ago about closed Winter rooms and air quality, or lack thereof. The sinus infection I was suffering with added a bit of immediacy to my research. Here is the unit I purchased and here is what I think after about two weeks of use…

I selected this particular unit from Hammacher Schlemmer first because it was from Hammacher Schlemmer. If I want to buy something that I can guarantee will work as advertised, this is one of the first places I will go to for a product purchase. The purifier arrived within days of my online order – not weeks…

I know my older home has mold issues – it also has a wood stove in nearly constant use during colder months. I also have a dog – who has dander. Add to this dysfunctional sinuses and it was almost a given this Mold and Germ Destroying Air Purifier would be a welcomed addition. Here’s what I like about it:

+ This air purifier unit eliminates up to 100% of airborne bacteria, mold, viruses, pet dander, dust mites, and pollen without making a sound.
+ It produces no ozone and has no filter to clean.
+ The air purifier remains cool to the touch and though it is sitting less than 2′ from my computer monitor, I can’t hear it running.
+ It has a small footprint: 10 1/2″ H x 8 1/2″ Diameter.
+ Suitable for rooms up to 550′ square feet (or select the 650 sq ft unit.)

I work at home and on the computer most of most days. I wish I’d had one of these when I did IT contracting – usually in large buildings with hundreds of co-workers – and sealed windows. Maybe I wouldn’t have come home so many days with a headache.

It could be coincidence, but the 3-week duration sinus infection is now gone. I can’t help but think this air purifier played a major role in giving me better quality air to breathe – hastening recovery. So nice to feel that hard-earned dollars have been well-spent!

I mentioned in a prior post that at the middle of Year 5 of the life of my Century Hearth wood stove, it is time to do a bit of maintenance.

Part of the gasket seal – that webbed-look stuff that lines the front window – has shredded and split. Since I burn fairly “hot” fires, some of the stove’s fire bricks are also showing some wear. Fortunately, finding what I needed proved easier than I at first thought it might be.

There are quite a few YouTube videos that show the basics of making the actual repair – here’s a good one for you…

But I still needed the “stuff” to make this repair. Off to Woodman’s Parts Plus. They have everything I need now – and a few things I may need in future.

I was able to order the gasket, (in less than an expensive 90 foot roll!) in a reasonable 6-foot length. Width was easily measured at the stove – in the case of my Century Hearth FW240007 model, 3/4″ gasket. I ordered the cement to attach the new gasket, and was also able to order a 6-pack of firebricks – all from the same web site. If I’d thought a bit further ahead I would have added some stove black to my order – on the list for next time…

From the time I realized I needed repair materials to the time the shipment arrived at my door was less than 2 weeks – and one week of that was me researching a source for the repair materials and figuring out sizes and lengths of what I actually needed. I am very pleased to recommend Woodman’s Parts Plus (based in New Hampshire) for wood stove accessories and replacement materials.

Here’s a good place to do some research for new ideas and new plants for your 2012 garden!

You can take a walk through an entire nursery-worth of products without leaving your chair! And through February 11, 2012, find out how to get all orders for only $5.95 shipping from Nature Hills Nursery…

I don’t much care for shopping, absolutely hate shopping malls, and am quite likely to buy something from a online merchant because it saves me a lot of time – but only if the merchant has a solid reputation and a great selection of products.

When possible, I want to pay shipping charges just once – I don’t want to have to buy from 3 vendors for 3 items. I think most savvy online shoppers do the same.

Sierra Trading Post fits my requirements and the selection never disappoints. They have a great sale going on now – that runs to February 8, 2012.

And as for multi-tasking?

Save 35-70% on ski and snowboard gear at Sierra Trading Post!
Save on Outdoor Gear at Sierra Trading Post!
Great deals on ski boots at Sierra Trading Post!
Save on Pet Supplies at Sierra Trading Post!
Sierra Trading Post Gift Cards!

Add to this brand name clothes and accessories for fishing, hunting, camping, climbing and cycling – you’ve found a great resource for all season’s outdoor activities.

So, what is good for heating bills – sporadically warmer-than-usual temperatures this year in North Carolina, is not good for Spring bulbs – which are now popping up too early.

Although I plant the new bulbs a bit deeper each year, the weather always seems to trick them into sticking their noses out of the ground – usually just before a bank of 20-degree mornings.

Here’s what I’ve found today, January 25th…

Such is the life of a gardener…Oh well…

+ $10 off orders of $99 or more. Use code CJGGREEN

Time to think Spring for this year’s garden and to plan for some new color to my predominantly green landscape. Here are some current specials, (and some garden improvement ideas) from Garden.com:

+ Winter Clearance! 50% off Patio Furniture Covers and Free Shipping on Address Plaques!

+ Clearance Items – up to 80% off!

+ Wood Arbors in Stock at Garden.com

+ NEW! Exclusive Fire Pots

Don’t forget your “Valentine” Gardener…

+ Valentine’s Day Gifts – Free Shipping on 50 Great Gifts for the special gardener in your life.

This Asian architecture inspired feeder features dramatic scrollwork details along the base.

Constructed of western red cedar for its striking roof and kiln-dried pine. There are two separate feeding trays, along with a drain hole at the base. Will attract all types of wild birds.

Dimensions: 22″ H x 14″ W x 12″ D

DECORATIVE BIRD FEEDERS: Home Bazaar Summer Palace Feeder

From The Bird Shed

Here are a few links to online tools that will help you visualize and design your new outdoor kitchen.

Danver.com – beautiful stainless steel cabinetry…

The “Kitchenator” – specific to the site’s products but in this case – not a bad thing!

Home Design Software - definitely not just for kitchens

Interactive plans from Wolf and Sub-Zero…

A Plan 3D design tool – for any room in your home.

And last – for this post anyway…from BBQ Island

“To each his own…” may be applicable here, but below are the 5 Top Birdbaths desired for the property at Rose Cottage…

Daisy Weave Birdbath

The Daisy Weave Birdbath features stunning woven detail climbing the base of the pedestal, as well as around the rim of the bowl.

The intricate daisies that are crafted between each woven strand create an intricate and delightful accent. You can be sure the Daisy Weave Birdbath will add the finishing touch to your garden setting!

Morning Glory Pedestal Bird Bath

The Morning Glory Pedestal Bird Bath is the perfect choice for your outdoor area.

The beautiful morning glories set this birdbath apart from all of the rest! Winding up the pedestal of this beautiful birdbath, the morning glories are featured throughout and are sure to be adored by all of your garden guests, feathered and on-feathered. Make a statement and set the Morning Glory Pedestal Birdbath as your center piece.

Rambling Rose Birdbath

What would Rose Cottage be without a Rambling Rose birdbath?

The Rambling Rose Birdbath features stunning roses climbing the pedestal base, as well as around the rim of the bowl. The intricate roses and leaves climbing the base create an intricate and delightful accent. You can be sure the Rambling Rose Birdbath will add the finishing touch to your garden setting!

Victorian Rose Birdbath

Or a Victorian Rose birdbath?

The beautiful rose detail makes the Victorian Rose Birdbath the perfect choice for your home, garden, patio, or back yard.

Victorian Rose Birdbath’s attention to detail makes this piece one of a kind. Roses adorn the top rim of the Victorian Rose Birdbath as well as the pedestal. The detailing follows all the way down to the bottom of the Victorian Rose Birdbath to the pearls and tassels, making this the perfect Victorian birdbath.

Beauvoir Birdbath

For a touch of simple elegance…

A classic birdbath, the Beauvoir Birdbath is the perfect choice for your garden, patio, tabletop, or even indoors for home decor!

Imagine birds flying to and fro from from this beautiful birdbath. The Beauvoir Birdbath can also be used inside your home and placed in a bathroom for decor or in your doorway for a place to put keys. This versatile birdbath is the perfect choice!

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