5 comments about Does This Clutter Make My Butt Look Fat?: An Easy Plan for Losing Weight and Living More.

1. I bought this book along with his other one "It's All too Much!". I suggest reading the first book, then this one because it sets the ground work and you'll get an understanding of where he's going. It was so freeing to get rid of stuff in my cupboard that "maybe I'll make someday". I had pudding in there that was 10 years old. I then made menus, and did grocery shopping. I made what I shopped for, and with the exception of buying fruit /veggies and sandwiches one night, we had enough for a week and a half! This is because in the book he tells you not to bring in anymore stuff until you finish what you have, or use it to plan the next week's menus. This is a great way to save money and be more thoughtful about what you're making. I've only had the book for a month, so whether I'll lose anything remains to be seen. I have dieted since high school. I know tons about nutrition, portion sizes, fat, calories, exercise, etc. This book is not going to give you the latest and greatest fad. It is about getting to the bottom of what's in our kitchens and clearing our heads to focus on what we all know about healthy diets and nutrition.



2. Boy, if I can follow all the step-by-step instructions Peter recommends, life would be so much simplified! This is a great book and anyone who picks it up will benefit in some way, big or small, depending on how far you follow his lead. Just the idea of PLANNING what you are going to eat instantly rids you of bad choices resulting in loss of weight and increase in self-esteem.



3. Love this book. Humor and a quick kick in the pants all wrapped up in an organizing weight loss book.



4. The book is a common sense approach to the physical and emotional clutter in your life. Peter doesn't give you "3 easy steps" or "17 ways to fixing things" but rather knowledge that we all have already and for some reason choose not to focus in the right direction. i never associated clutter with weight gain before and it has some merits :)



5. This book goes beyond Peter Walsh's "It's All Too Much". In that book he focused on the clutter in our homes. This time he deals with that clutter first and then on how it affects our "butts." He maintains that if our lives are filled with clutter then our eating habits are probably chaotic and filled with excess and junk too.
   
   Walsh delves into the kitchen to clear it of useless gadgets and food clutter.
   
   I especially like Walsh's one size does NOT fit all approach, "You'll notice that I'm not being specific about foods you keep and what has to go. when it comes to healthier living one size does not fit all. We are individuals, and you need to make a commitment to decisions that work for you." And, "We both know you are perfectly aware of what you should and should not be eating. So enough of the charts and tables and portion measuring devices that clutter your life."
   
   His book is packed with great lists to work through, and tons of practical, encouraging tips and some obvious but perhaps forgotten lines:
   Chew your food
   Eat your vegetables
   Get a good night's sleep
   Don't fill up on bread
   Don't talk with your mouth full
   Your eyes are bigger than your belly
   
   His food clutter principle, "Recognize and celebrate every meal you enjoy. It will remind you of the great things a meal provides, beyond just the food." Walsh even pays homage to the practice of saying grace before a meal, "The expression of common prayer forced everyone at the table to stop, pause, and reflect."
   
   He ends with some really terrific "Don'ts":
   
   Don't start with the "stuff", start with a clear idea of the life you want to be living.
   
   Don't obsess. I care about you. I can't stand the idea of your turning into one of those people whose whole life is spent figuring out how not to eat a single potato chip.
   
   Don't count calories or eat fake foods or go to someone's house for dinner and tell them you brought your own meal.
   
   This book is really encouraging and really practical.

No comments about 2003 International Fuel & Gascode (Softbound) (International Fuel Gas Code).

5 comments about Mister Rogers' Parenting Book: Helping To Understand Your Young Child.

1. This book is my favorite parenting book--it has the best advice in clear, simple terms and it's easy to find the information you need. Well worth the money!



2. My husband and I use this book all the time to get some perspective on issues we are dealing with. It is gently written and simple to understand with some great ideas on what to try in different situations. I've actually had my husband call me up on the phone and ask me to look something up in this book for him. Highly reccommended!!!!!



3. This book is great because it contains 2 books in one, The Mister Rogers Parenting Book & Mister Rogers' Playtime. I have found the advice to be excellent in the parenting section. My daughter and I very much enjoy picking an activity from the playtime section to do together. We love Mr. Rogers! Overall, it's a great book & I am glad to own it.



4. This book is written in simple terms. Fred Rogers encourages as much forgiveness and understanding of ourselves as parents as he does of our children. He recognized that it isn't much easier being the parent than it is being the child, and that we can give ourselves credit for loving and caring about our children, even when we later decide to change some aspect of our parenting.



5. As one would expect from Mister Rogers, this book is ideal for parents of toddlers and young children. He explains both in terms of the general psychological philosophy and then in specific ways how to deal with the basic fears and issues of childhood. He provides approaches that are easy and practical, and quickly reassure the child.

3 comments about The Simple Home: A Faith-filled Guide to Simplicity, Peace And Joy in Your Home (Spirit of Simple Living) (Spirit of Simple Living).

1. In THE SIMPLE HOME, QVC's design expert Sharon Hanby-Robie wants to help Christians rethink their homes as spiritual sanctuaries. "Imagine how different life would be if we let the Creator of the universe not only rule our lives but our homes as well." In this faith-driven approach to home decorating and organization, she offers practical tips and personal anecdotes to get readers started.
   
   I hadn't thought of crafting a mission statement for my home, but Hanby-Robie says this is the first step toward simplicity. What is your home's purpose? Do you work from home? Is it a place for you to retreat? How do other members of your family see the purpose of your home? She peppers her chapters with anecdotes from her own homemaking, quotes about homes from famous people and scripture verses. Chapters end with a short plan of action and a prayer. One of my favorites: "Lord, give me wisdom to clear away those things that distract me from what is important to my life. Help me to rid myself of confusion so that I can enjoy the creative use of my home."
   
   There's a nice mix of practical tips ("The key to creating a beautiful wall of art is to choose similar sizes, styles, or shapes") with plenty of room for sentiment and emotion ("Hanging children's art is an amazing way to instill confidence and a sense of value in a child."). Some tips are simple and inexpensive (using paint to update a room) while others are more complicated and expensive (removing walls, installing new flooring).
   
   Some readers may find her a little gushy; for example, of one client couple she says: "I have watched their two sons grow from adorable little boys to strong, amazing men." The spiritual emphasis is strong. Musing over color choices is a chance to ruminate on scriptures in Revelation that describe colors in heaven. There is a specific section for readers who want to create a sanctuary space for spiritual quiet time. The section on hospitality, however, was disappointingly thin. Two chapters on color choices probably could have been combined, and some ideas are repeated in different chapters.
   
   But I appreciated her willingness to let us in on her own decorating mistakes, including one that resulted in a neon orange-papered powder room. She also urges contentment even when we are unhappy with the home we have. I also enjoyed her reminders about the importance of some rooms for family, such as the "flop and chat" potential of the master bedroom. (My teenagers loved to do this!)
   
   In addition to decorating, Hanby-Robie addresses organization ("maintain a family calendar") and clutter elimination (one chapter is titled, "Attics and Garages and Basements, Oh My!). I picked up a new tip on eliminating odor in a damp basement --- she recommends trying an activated charcoal filter. Another idea I appreciated was an easy way to manage coupons. Most of the ideas are tried and true...and practical.
   
   One of the amazing discoveries we'll make as we simplify and de-clutter is how much stuff we have, Hanby-Robie notes. "Too often, rather than look for a small, specific item it seems easier to buy another one." I have a feeling if I ever got my office organized, I'd be amazed at how many pens I have! Yet I can never find one when I need it.
   
   Her ideas about making the most of what we have ("rearrange your furniture") and remembering more elusive things, such as the scents and sounds of our homes, were particularly compelling. What do you smell when you walk in your front door? Most importantly, there is plenty of scope for your creativity. "There's so much you can accomplish just by putting your mind to the task and letting your imagination run wild." In these pages, readers will appreciate finding new ideas to make their home a spiritual haven.
   
   --- Reviewed by Cindy Crosby



2. This is a great book to read but not exactly what I was looking for. If you want something that is very specific, this is not for you. Very general ideas to use your own creativity.



3. Just the premise of this book is worth a great deal of thought and consideration -- "earn more or desire less" -- that the way we live is truly a spiritual journey.

5 comments about Sam Maloof, Woodworker.

1. Sam Maloof is a world treasure. His book reflects his passion and skill as a master. Sam's book is not written in a pompous manor but in a matter of fact point of view. Sam shares his life with us and puts it on paper. I have had the opportunity to meet Mr. Maloof and his lovely and gracious wife, Alfreda before her passing. Sam's love and passion for his craft is second only to his devotion to God and his love for his beautiful wife. His book reflects that in a way that is educational, thought provoking and simple. His warm and friendly demeanor in person is very evident in this book! Sam beleives there are no secrets in woodworking. He shares his finish and techniques in this book, although this is NOT a "how to" book. Reading this book, you will learn something about philosophy, Spirituality and some woodworking along the way.

   Keith Kidd Vice-President Cerritos Student's Woodworking Association (CSWA)




2. I bought this book when I was a student of woodworking/cabinetmaking in college, after hearing and seeing and studing some of Mr.Maloof's work in class. I found his command and respect for his craft, and the material that he works with to be second to none. His work is a insperation in it's self but once you find out the story behind this unbeliveable man it is all the more fasanating. his simple thoughts and down to earth style are a insperation to all. after reading this book I was amazed and inspired by this man and will remember and re-read this book may times.he will always be a insperation to myself and all woodworkers for years to come



3. IF YOU ARE INTO WOOD OR WOODWORKING AS MUCH AS I AM, OR EVEN IF IF YOU ARE ONLY INTO READING ABOUT GREAT ARTISTS/CRAFTSMEN, THIS BOOK IS A MUST FOR YOU !! IT DETAILS WITH GREAT CLARITY SAM'S LIFE & WORK THROUGH BOTH PHOTOS & REMARKABLE WRITING. I FOUND IT INFORMATIVE & INSIGHTFUL!! DO NOT PASS UP THE OPPORTUNITY TO OWN THIS BOOK !!!
   
   BILL



4. As you most likely know, Sam Maloof is an icon in the world of woodworking. This book does a great job of both highlighting his many creations as well as to tell the story of the man who would define an entire style and change the face of fine furniture. Written by Sam himself, the book gives you an insight into his genius and humility that you can't get anywhere else other than from the man. And it's clear he had creative input into the design of the book itself, as it's beautifully illustrated and elegantly laid out. I'm relatively new to woodworking and the brilliance of Sam Maloof, but I'm so glad I'm able to have discovered him while we're still blessed with his presence on the earth. Get this book.



5. I've been woodworking for a a little over a year and had read about Sam Maloof in articles here and there. A few months ago I got to visit the Sam Maloof foundation and I fell in love with the way he shapes his pieces of furniture. As part of the tour we got to sit on one of his rockers and not only do they look beautiful but they are amazingly comfortable. That's when I decided to buy this book to learn more about him and his art.
   This book includes Sam Maloof's story from when he first began and his experience as he grew into his woodworking career. It is inspiring to read and to see how he persevered even though it was not easy at the beginning. The book is full of pictures of his work, more than was available at the Maloof foundation. It includes a high-level description of how he makes his famous rockers too.

4 comments about Don't Throw It Out: Recycle, Renew and Reuse to Make Things Last.

1. Landfills in the US are full to bursting, and the economy is heading into a recession. How can one person make a difference? Lori Baird and the editors of Yankee Magazine have the answers in Don't Throw It Out: Recycle, Renew, and Reuse to Make Things Last.
   
   This comprehensive book addresses the items in every room in the house, plus outdoors. Want to make your appliances last longer? Tips and tricks help you keep them running in top shape for as long as possible. Has something reached the end of its useful life? Then re-purpose it. With a little creativity, you can find many more ways it can be used.
   
   Proper wood cleaning techniques and solutions are explained, designed to keep your furniture in great condition. And if your wood furniture has already suffered neglect, don't despair. It can be given new life with some nifty cosmetic touch-ups.
   
   There are times when an item is simply beyond repair, or has become too expensive to operate. "Fix-it or Forget-it" tips show you when it's time to simply let go. And fun quizzes test your domestic know-how.
   
   Don't Throw It Out has changed the way I look at my home. It's so easy to implement the suggestions, and it feels great to know I'm conserving energy and creating less waste. One person really can make a difference. Pick up a copy and you can, too. The planet will thank you.
   
   Reviewer: Alice Berger



2. Lori Baird and the editors of Yankee Magazine have compiled a helpful and informative guide for 'planet friendly' use of common household items. I remember reading a similar earlier publication by the company and appreciated this updated book. I did, however, find a few of the 'Domestic Challenge' sections, included at the end of each chapter, annoying and confusing. Having to consider a few fictitious ideas interspersed among many worthwhile ones doesn't work at all for me. Originally, I had almost decided not to read the book any further, having, by chance, come across one of these sections when I first opened the book. But Baird's inclusion of so many unique, interesting, and tried and true ideas kept me reading to the end, after I started at the beginning. The book is nicely formatted and contains a wealth of suggestions and directives, an appendix with many resources, and an easy-to-use index.



3. Don't Throw It Out: Recycle, Renew and Reuse to Make Things Last, by Lori Baird, is terrific! I imagine anyone who is environmentally aware knows of the three R's--reduce, reuse, recycle--this book adds renew for a twist.
   
   The book covers virtually everything inside and outside the home. For example, the kitchen, chapter one, addresses everything from how to get the most efficient life out of your appliances to elongating the life of food. That's the practical side of the book.
   
   Then there are the creative aspects--the renewing. Have an old wood table that is beyond fixing the marred surface? No problem--make a tile top!
   
   Baird recommends purchasing only well made furniture, because good quality furniture will last forever, thus keeping it out of landfill. There are great tips on the signs to look for in quality furniture. For example,"5 signs a chair will wear well."
   
   In the lawn and garden accessories, "15 Ways to Reuse an Old Garden Hose" is a winner! who knew? (Next time, buy a quality hose, is the sage advice.)
   
   This book is just loaded with practical and creative tips, projects and advice. For those new to the environmentally-friendly lifestyle, this book could change your life. For those seasoned tree-huggers, Don't Throw it Out will still provide tons of new and useful information.
   
   A winner!
   
   By the author of the award winning book, Harmonious Environment: Beautify, Detoxify and Energize Your Life, Your Home and Your Planet.



4. This book is certainly idea-packed! Some of them I like, like making critter toys from old toothbrushes (although I'll leave the bristles on) and making fitted sheets out of flat ones (an idea I'd considered before, although I hadn't worked out all the details). Some, however, I wouldn't do, like seriously skimping on laundry soap; my grandma did that, believing that soap fades clothes, and her laundry reeked. I wonder, though, why there was no mention of Freecycle as a means for getting rid of unwanted stuff? I couldn't believe it wasn't in there and even looked in the index, but no. I find Freecycle to be invaluable for both giving and receiving old stuff.
   
   Interesting "encyclopedia" for dealing with "junk" that probably has something for everybody!!

2 comments about Color Idea Book (Idea Books).

1. This book is great if you can't decide what color to paint a room! Love it!



2. This book is great if you want to explore with color. I got many ideas from it.

5 comments about Smart Home Hacks: Tips & Tools for Automating Your House (Hacks).

1. SMART HOME HACKS: Tips & Tools for Automating Your House
   Gordon Meyer
   O'Reilly Media Inc.
   ISBN: 0-596-00722-1
   
   For years we have heard of how computers can provide benefits around the house. Television news programs show research labs using computers in conjunction with special equipment for recording or controlling test. I have often wondered, "How is this accomplished?"
   
   Smart Home Hacks introduces you to previously hidden benefits our computers can provide. With software available for Macintosh and other operating systems we learn to control many items in and around our home from our computer's CPU.
   
   How is this done... using the existing 120 VAC wiring in our walls to transmit and receive signals via X10 transmitter and receivers around your house. Whether controlling 12 volt landscaping lights, the timing cycles for your pool pump, or simply turning lights and sound on and off for security reasons, from the ground up Gordon Meyer's Smart Home Hacks explains the process.
   
   Your computer can send messages to your cell phone, pager, or e-mail account. Driveway lights can be set to come on and remain on for a given period of time, and sprinkler systems can be controlled by your home computer. Meyer takes readers from the basics of X10 codes to starting your hot tub and having it ready when you get home.
   
   For those wanting a computer to work for them this book even shows you how to monitor and plot heating oil fuel consumption. With broadband Internet service you can monitor Fido's actions when you are away from the house by adding video camera(s) and a link to the Internet.
   
   To add cost effectiveness to a home, SMART HOME HACKS: Tips & Tools for Automating Your House is a great addition to a home library. Additionally, it should be considered as an ideal gift.



2. "Smart Home Hacks" provides a basic introduction to X10-based home automation, a technology that's been around since the 1970s. For the most part, the book just scratches the surface of the subject and often goes off on unrelated tangents, such as an example of how to build a robot lawnmower. What's missing is a more comprehensive overview of X10-compatible modules and the different ways they might be used to solve home automation problems. For example, irrigation is a very practical application that's ideal for a computer, and there are X10-based models, such as the Rain8 made by WGL designs. But the author chooses to ignore irrigation because of a perceived flooding hazard, even though the Rain8 has an internal limiter that shuts off the water even if no X10 "off" signal is received. Many pages are devoted to computer automation systems sending text-base messages, but no mention is made of voice-based solutions which are much more practical and cost-effective. The newer software applications that are available are impressive but it's amazing how primitive the available hardware is. The book fails to mention one of the biggest obstacles to X10 deployment: the need for a "neutral" (white) wire in household wiring. Since most light switches are wired with a simple 2-wire loop-back for economic reasons, it would require expensive re-wiring to use X10 switches. And, unless I missed it, it fails to discuss the problem of X10 signals not being passed to the "other side" of typical 2-phase house wiring. Only a passing mention is made to the new INSTEON technology that improves upon the old X10 protocol. So, although the book appears to be "current" it reads like it was written five years ago. "Smart Home Hacks" works best as sort of an idea cookbook. You'll find yourself bouncing around from one "recipe" to another but often finding most cool ideas can't be cooked up because of various obstacles (cost, permits, electronic expertise, obscure hardware, and so on).



3. This book presents a great variety of ideas for using the X10 protocol. I'm sure every reader will find several ideas or projects interesting enough to try.
   
   Although I've been using X10 products for over five years, I have found this book to be a very useful reference. What I like about it is that it starts off with the very basics and move through to the esoteric ... something for everyone.
   
   I recommend this book to the beginner or to the experienced. I'm glad I bought it: I refer to it all the time.



4. I am very into the X-10 gadgets and have been for several years. This book was intended for the average homeowner interested in inexpensive home security. The only thing it lacks is diagrams and layouts for the systems it covered.



5. I'm a SW developer and I just got this book because I was curious about Home Automation, I had no idea about it and this book really cleared my mind easy reading and amazingly easy to implement If you're a beginner I totally recommend it!

2 comments about Roberts' Illustrated Millwork Catalog: A Sourcebook of Turn-of-the-Century Architectural Woodwork (Dover Books on Architecture).

1. This book is a terrific graphical reference for victorian casework, gingerbread and related period architectural trim and ornament.



2. I have shared this book with several friends in the remodeling trades and all they can say is: "Where's the time machine so we can buy at those prices?" The illustrations and drawings in the book are excellent. As a reference to those in the trades, or for the homeowner doing a rehab/remodel of an old home or office building this book is invaluable for finding details and dimensions for thousands of pieces of millwork. Even if you're not in the middle of a project this book is a great glimpse into the past and a look at true craftsmanship. After looking through this book you'll never see trim and attention to detail the same way again. I really love this book.

No comments about IdeaWise Garages: Inspiration & Information for Do-It-Yourselfers.