Ellen Bell's Profile
Ellen Bell's articles
If you're like millions of other Americans, you struggle each year to set up your artificial Christmas tree, a chore that takes way too much time and energy. In this article, we'll present 10 easy tips that will make setting up the tree a faster and easier process!
Posted: 2009-09-10
Category: Holidays
Getting your yard ready for the winter can be a big task, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming if you break the work down into the three main areas that need attention: trees and shrubs, lawn, and garden and planting areas. In this article, we'll explain what needs done in each of these places.
Posted: 2009-09-10
Category: Landscaping
With all the myths and misconceptions out there about composting toilets, it's hard to know what is and isn't true. In this article, we'll explore and disprove the five most common myths surrounding composting toilet systems.
Posted: 2009-09-10
Category: Home Improvement
Are you considering buying or building a pergola for your home? In this article, we'll discuss various pergola designs that are unique and useful, and how these structures can add to your overall landscaping plan.
Posted: 2009-09-01
Category: Landscaping
If you're like millions of other holiday shoppers who procrastinate, you're left struggling to find the right gift at the last moment. Our helpful guide is designed to provide gift ideas based on age group of the recipient.
Posted: 2009-09-01
Category: Holidays
A good composting toilet is expensive, and with everyone looking to save money these days, it's not uncommon for people to try to build their own. But before you head to the hardware store, you might want to read our top 5 reasons why it's not such a good idea to build your own composting toilet.
Posted: 2009-09-01
Category: Home Improvement
Looking for some new ways to add color and visual interest to your garden? In this article, we'll explore 4 types of vertical garden elements that will spice up your landscape.
Posted: 2009-08-12
Category: Landscaping
If you've ever considered the idea of a waterless toilet, this article is for you. We'll explain the most common type of waterless toilet system and why it's catching on as an eco-friendly and money saving alternative to traditional water flushing toilets.
Posted: 2009-08-12
Category: Home Improvement
If you are among the many Americans struggling to store your artificial Christmas tree every year, you are not alone. Artificial Christmas trees are large, bulky, and pose a real storage quandary. In this article, we'll explain both the wrong and the right ways to store your tree when the holidays are over.
Posted: 2009-08-12
Category: Holidays
Today's composting toilet systems are clean, sleek, modern, and completely odorless. Furthermore, composting toilets can save thousands of gallons of water and reduce septic or sewer costs, too. Could it be that this eco-friendly alternative is ready to go mainstream?
Posted: 2009-08-04
Category: Home Improvement
If you have lots of fresh produce from your garden this year, why not do some canning and give the jars away as Christmas gifts? Not only will you save money on your holiday shopping, but you'll save time, too. In this article, we'll explore some homemade gift ideas straight out of the garden.
Posted: 2009-08-04
Category: Holidays
If your sliding glass door is getting old, and doesn't work as well as it used to, you're not alone. Many homeowners face this same problem. But before you shop for a new door, you should know that there are some simple and easy repairs you can do yourself.
Posted: 2009-08-04
Category: Home Improvement
If you're interested in eco friendly living, also known as going green, but aren't quite sure where to get started, then this article is for you! We'll provide tips for 5 easy things you can do at home to get started.
Posted: 2009-07-13
Category: Home & Family
Building a greenhouse is a big project, and can seem daunting at first. If you're even considering building a greenhouse in your yard, this is the article for you. We'll explain some important things you need to know to get started on the right foot.
Posted: 2009-07-13
Category: Gardening
Are you in the market for a sliding glass patio door? If so, this article is for you! This buying guide will help the average homeowner evaluate the various choices and selling points of sliding glass patio doors.
Posted: 2009-07-13
Category: Home Improvement
Creating your own landscaping design plan can be difficult, but it doesn't have to be impossible. In this article, we'll explain the steps to creating a landscape design that will meet your specific needs.
Posted: 2009-07-08
Category: Landscaping
Summer may not seem like the time to be thinking about Christmas, but it is a great time to get your holiday decorations in order. We'll explain how a few hours or days spent organizing right now will pay off when Christmas rolls around.
Posted: 2009-07-08
Category: Organizing
Are you looking to create some outdoor privacy for a deck, porch, or patio? Vertical gardens are a great way to shield your outdoor living space from view. In this article, we'll explain how you can create your own outdoor privacy screen with a vertical garden.
Posted: 2009-07-01
Category: Landscaping
If the notion of a composting toilet sounds a little questionable to you, allow us to dispel the most common myths. Not only are composting toilets clean and odor-free, they're also great for the environment and your pocketbook.
Posted: 2009-07-01
Category: Home Improvement
Are you concerned about our environment, but aren't sure what you can do to help? Going green isn't as difficult as you might think. In this article, we'll discuss five easy things you can do at home to impact the environment in a positive way.
Posted: 2009-07-01
Category: Home & Family
Are you thinking of building a sandbox for your kids or grandkids this summer? If so, this article is for you! We'll tell you everything you need to know before you begin your project.
Posted: 2009-06-23
Category: Home Improvement
Water conservation isn't something that everyone thinks about. In many parts of the developed world, water is cheap and readily available. But did you know that one in five people around the globe does not have access to clean drinking water? Find out what you can do to help.
Posted: 2009-06-17
Category: Environmental
Planning a landscape design can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be! By identifying your specific goals, you can create a landscape design that will work for you and your family.
Posted: 2009-06-17
Category: Landscaping
Clean drinking water is the most important natural resource for life on this planet. Without water to drink, humans and animals cannot survive more than a few days. In this article, we'll explain how freshwater is becoming an increasingly scarce resource, and why this is an issue everyone should be concerned about.
Posted: 2009-06-08
Category: Environmental
If you are planning an outdoor wedding, you've probably already figured out that decorating will be an entirely different undertaking than if you were to host the event indoors. In this article, we'll provide some basic guidelines for decorating your outdoor wedding.
Posted: 2009-06-08
Category: Weddings
If you're running a little late this year for planning or planting your vegetable garden, don't worry. Even late May or early June isn't too late to plant beans. In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know to raise a bumper crop of beans.
Posted: 2009-06-08
Category: Gardening
Greenhouse gardening is a fun and rewarding hobby that can be practiced at whatever level of involvement you want. For those with less time, energy, or money to invest, indoor greenhouse gardening is a wonderful way to get started.
Posted: 2009-05-26
Category: Gardening
Do you enjoy growing your own vegetables, but have trouble mastering the art of sweet corn? This article is full of helpful tips for growing your best sweet corn ever, whether you're a beginning or novice gardener.
Posted: 2009-05-26
Category: Gardening
Almost everyone enjoys watermelon in the summertime. So why not try growing your own watermelons in your garden this year? We've got all the tips and tricks you need to know for growing your best watermelon crop ever!
Posted: 2009-05-12
Category: Gardening
Arbors and pergolas are great elements to incorporate into a garden. Not only do they contribute to the overall design of the landscape, but they can also serve many utilitarian purposes as well. In this article, we'll discuss how you can design a garden arbor or pergola to meet your needs.
Posted: 2009-04-27
Category: Landscaping
If you're planting a vegetable garden this year, why not start your plants from seed? Planting from seed is exponentially less expensive than purchasing young transplants from a nursery! In this article, we'll explain everything you need to know to grow your veggies from seed.
Posted: 2009-04-27
Category: Gardening
Almost every home vegetable gardener makes room for at least a few tomato plants in their garden. After all, what is better than a homegrown tomato? In this article, we'll explain some tips and tricks to help you grow your best tomatoes ever!
Posted: 2009-04-20
Category: Gardening
If you are among the many Americans who want a vegetable garden but simply don't have the space, it's time to reconsider the way we plant vegetables. In this article, we'll explore vegetable gardening in containers for maximum harvests with minimum space.
Posted: 2009-04-20
Category: Gardening
Any beginning gardener who has tried growing peppers probably knows that they're not the easiest of the homegrown vegetables to raise. However, they are not impossible! In this article, we'll provide some tips and suggestions to help you grow your best peppers ever this summer!
Posted: 2009-04-15
Category: Gardening
Constructing raised bed gardens is a big job, and before you begin, there are a number of considerations to take into account. In this article, we'll explain some of the aspects of raised bed gardening to help you make an informed decision about whether this centuries-old gardening method is right for you.
Posted: 2009-04-07
Category: Gardening
Have you considered home composting, but are reluctant because of the perception that compost bins are smelly? If so, you can stop worrying now! In this article, we'll explain the 3 simple steps you can follow to begin home composting that is virtually odor free!
Posted: 2009-04-07
Category: Gardening
A lot of work and preparation needs to go into a greenhouse before your ready for actual greenhouse gardening. In this article, we'll explore some of the things you should consider before purchasing or constructing a greenhouse.
Posted: 2009-04-02
Category: Gardening
If you want to have a garden wedding, this is the article for you. We'll explore the basics of planning a garden wedding, including things to consider when choosing a location, and some of the important details you don't want to forget!
Posted: 2009-03-24
Category: Weddings
Do you have bad soil in your area? Is it rocky, sandy, or full of clay? If so, no need to worry! In this article we'll explain how to take the worst soil and turn it into a rich, fertile loam that your plants will love.
Posted: 2009-03-24
Category: Gardening
If you enjoy vegetable gardening, you're probably anxious to begin planting this year's crop. But why wait for warm weather? Did you know that cool weather vegetables can be planted as early as several weeks before the last expected frost? In this article, we'll explore some cool weather vegetables that you can grow in your garden this spring.
Posted: 2009-03-16
Category: Gardening
In the Southeastern United States, a region prone to hurricanes and tropical storms, many building and compliance codes have been established to reinforce new structures and protect citizens against severe weather. We'll explore some of those codes as well as product compliance regulations that are enforced in these hurricane regions.
Posted: 2009-03-16
Category: Home Improvement
How much do you know about industrial magnets? Did you know that many of the goods we use on a daily basis are produced in manufacturing facilities that utilize some type of industrial magnet? In this article, we'll explore some of the many uses of industrial magnets and the ways they are improving manufacturing processes every day.
Posted: 2009-03-12
Category: Science
As the troubled economy begins to affect families' bottom lines, more and more of us are looking for ways to cut back and save money. Vegetable gardening is a great way to do just that! With as little as a $40 investment, you can save hundreds of dollars this summer on your grocery bill! In this article, we'll explain what you need to know to get started growing your own vegetable garden this summer.
Posted: 2009-03-12
Category: Gardening
Are you considering buying a greenhouse? If so, there are a number of things to consider before you make your big purchase. We'll discuss some important tips for greenhouse shopping, and some questions to ask yourself before buying your new greenhouse.
Posted: 2009-03-09
Category: Gardening
Are you looking for a fun and temporary splash of color to spice up your garden or landscape? Consider an annual climbing vine. Most grow quickly and boast beautiful blooms. We'll take a look at the top 10 most popular annual climbing vines for you to consider in your garden.
Posted: 2009-03-02
Category: Gardening
So you've bought a compost tumbler. Now what? We'll tell you everything you need to know about how to get started with aerobic composting in your new compost tumbler bin. Find out what's so great about aerobic composting!
Posted: 2009-03-02
Category: Gardening
If you've heard of composting, but aren't sure what it's all about, this is the article for you. We'll explain the two main types of composting and how you can begin composting at home. Find out why home composting is a growing trend and how you can join in!
Posted: 2009-02-19
Category: Gardening
It is estimated that Americans spend around $1 billion each year on magnetic healing devices. But can magnets really improve our health? There is a great deal of controversy over this very issue. In this article, we'll explore some of the information available about how magnets may or may not work to improve health and speed healing.
Posted: 2009-02-19
Category: Health & Fitness
If you're looking for a way to take your gardening to new heights, why not give climbing plants a try? Climbing plants and vines can be trained to climb fences, railings, walls, or trellises, and they add a beautiful vertical element to a horizontal landscape. In this article, we'll explore some of the various climbing plants that you can use to enhance your garden or landscape design.
Posted: 2009-02-19
Category: Landscaping
If you're looking for a way to add interest and character to your garden or backyard, an arbor or pergola might be just the thing you need. In this article, we'll discuss various types of arbors and pergolas and how they can be used to enhance your overall landscape design.
Posted: 2009-02-09
Category: Landscaping
Like many gardeners, you might wonder what all the buzz is about greenhouse gardening. What are the benefits of owning a greenhouse? Bigger and better plants, year round gardening, and cost savings are just a few of the many benefits enjoyed by greenhouse gardeners. In this article, we'll explain what's so great about greenhouse gardening.
Posted: 2009-02-09
Category: Gardening
Adding an arbor or trellis to your garden is a big job. The last thing you want to do is start a project like this without being prepared! This article discusses important considerations to take into account before beginning the project of adding a garden trellis or arbor.
Posted: 2009-02-02
Category: Landscaping
Raised bed gardening has enormous benefits to your plants and to you, the gardener. But there are also some disadvantages to be considered as well. In this article, we'll evaluate the various pros and cons of raised bed gardening so you can make an informed decision about what type of garden is best for you.
Posted: 2009-02-02
Category: Gardening
Anyone who has set up a greenhouse knows that the process is a lot of work. But once the structure is built, then the real fun can begin. So what's the next step? In this article, we'll explore the process of setting up your greenhouse and getting ready to begin greenhouse gardening.
Posted: 2009-01-26
Category: Gardening
Do you want to make your yard look better, but you're not sure how? Are you stumped about how to fix the "problem areas" of your garden? Consider using climbing plants as part of your solution! In this article, we'll explore how and where you can use climbing plants to solve all sorts of problems in your outdoor living areas.
Posted: 2009-01-26
Category: Landscaping
Adding a greenhouse to your yard is a big investment in time and money. Before taking that next step, remember that the planning you do now is the most important part of the process! In this article, you'll find a list of questions to ask yourself and important things to consider before you begin building your new greenhouse.
Posted: 2009-01-22
Category: Gardening
If you're getting tired of the long, cold winter months, you're probably ready for summer to get here in a hurry! Why not begin planning an outdoor summer project that you can enjoy when the weather warms up? In this article, we'll explore the process of adding an arbor or trellis to your yard, a great summer project that will add charm and character to your yard.
Posted: 2009-01-22
Category: Landscaping
A century ago in the United States, many families raised a large crop of vegetables each year for their family's consumption. Today, while rural family farming is on the decline, the small suburban gardener is becoming more common, with the tomato topping this list of favorite crops.
Posted: 2009-01-14
Category: Gardening
Are you tired of doing the same old thing for Valentine's Day? Do you enjoy celebrating with your loved one, but you want to do something more than flowers and chocolate? If the Cupid in you is out of original ideas for Valentine's Day, then this article is for you. Here are ten new and different ways to share your love with others.
Posted: 2009-01-14
Category: Holidays
Do you enjoy gardening and want to know how you can expand your hobby or take your skills to the next level? Have you considered investing in a greenhouse, but aren't sure where to start? This article has all the answers and more. Find out everything you need to know about gardening in your own greenhouse.
Posted: 2009-01-06
Category: Gardening
The history of magnets is a long and varied tale that dates back thousands of years. In this article, we'll explore the legend and mythology surrounding man's discovery and initial uses of magnetism and its many powers.
Posted: 2009-01-06
Category: Science
Magnets are one of the most widely used and yet infrequently thought about objects in our world today. We'll explore some of the amazing uses of magnets and the way that magnet technology keeps the world moving.
Posted: 2008-12-29
Category: Science
How much do you know about greenhouses? In this article, we'll discuss this history of greenhouses, from their inception by the Romans in 30 A.D. all the way through the Victorian greenhouses of Europe in the 19th century.
Posted: 2008-12-29
Category: Gardening
Did you know that magnets can actually help your health? Many of the incredible advances in modern medicine can be credited to the use of magnets. We'll explore some of the ways that magnet technology is improving the way we treat patients.
Posted: 2008-11-20
Category: Science
Setting up the Christmas tree is a tradition enjoyed by many families during the holiday season. But don't forget to use good common sense and take safety precautions to avoid injuries or property damage. Here is a checklist of 20 important safety considerations to think about before setting up your Christmas tree.
Posted: 2008-11-20
Category: Holidays
Since the early part of the 20th century, the National Christmas Tree has been a holiday fixture in Washington, D.C. We'll explore the history of this national tradition from its beginnings to current day.
Posted: 2008-10-24
Category: Reference & Education
Christmas is most decorated holiday in the United States. Unfortunately, this time of year is also when most decorating-related injuries occur. While we all enjoy holiday decorations, it's important to keep basic safety rules in mind. No one enjoys a Christmas spent in the emergency room!
Posted: 2008-10-24
Category: Holidays
Have you ever wondered how to create a funky, themed Christmas tree for your home? Themed trees are becoming more popular as people seek alternatives to the "traditional" Christmas tree. We'll give you some great tips and ideas to help you get started creating a holiday tree that is as unique as you are.
Posted: 2008-10-09
Category: Holidays
Sending greeting cards at Christmastime is a very popular tradition in the United States and other countries. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that 1.9 billion greeting cards are sent in the United States every year. How did this tradition get started? We'll take a look at the humble origins of the Christmas card and how it grew into the massive industry it is today.
Posted: 2008-10-09
Category: Holidays
In 2007, over 31 million live Christmas trees were sold in the United States. Find out how the Christmas tree farming industry grew from its humble beginnings in the mid-1800's to the $1.3 billion dollar industry that it is today.
Posted: 2008-09-22
Category: Holidays
Imagine returning home from work to find your front door unlocked and your home robbed. This happened to dozens of Dallas apartment residents during the summer of 2007. How could this happen? Lock bumping! Find out why lock bumping is a major security risk and how to avoid becoming the next victim.
Posted: 2008-09-22
Category: Home Security
Wreaths are a very common decoration used around the world for Christmas and other holidays. But did you ever wonder where the tradition of wreaths came from or how it got started? We'll explore the long tradition of wreaths and some of their historical uses.
Posted: 2008-09-11
Category: Holidays
Are you a coffee connoisseur? Do you also love birds? If you answered yes to either of these questions, then you need to know more about shade grown coffee! Find out why coffee grown in the shade supports biodiversity, encourages organic farming methods, and provides a much needed habitat for our migratory feathered friends.
Posted: 2008-09-11
Category: Coffee
An iconic symbol of Christmas time in New York City, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree has heralded in the holiday season since 1931. Learn more about the history of this colossal tree and why it's made such a mark on the city that celebrates it each year.
Posted: 2008-09-11
Category: Holidays
If you like to decorate your home for different holidays and seasons, wreaths are a great way to do so. Don't limit yourself to only displaying wreaths at Christmastime! We'll show you how to create unique wreaths for every holiday of the year.
Posted: 2008-09-04
Category: Holidays
