Straight Talk On - Decorating Around the Garden Do you live near a park? Most people do - there are so many around now. All levels of government recognize the value of a green environment. And, of course, if people know that government has provided them with lots of parks and trees, they'll get

Gardening - a very special activity for young and old, alone or with family and friends. There are many activities that offer benefits to young and old alike. There is, however, one very special fun-thing to do whose benefits definitely outweigh the work that is involved. The old adage "Hard work preceives

Finding thrifty ways to decorate your outdoor living space doesn't mean you have to sacrifice taste or comfort. Here are some ideas to help you. Noted English clergyman Sydney Smith (1771-1845) is quoted as saying, "Economy in the estimation of common minds means the absence of all taste and comfort."

Are you spending time sitting outside in the warm sunshine this summer? Or are the afternoon rays beating down on your patio or deck making it unusable for much of each day? Here are some pointers to make your outdoor living space more comfortable. Are you spending time sitting outside in the warm sunshine

The large wrap-around porches that we may remember from our childhood are seldom found in today's modern homes. Instead, we're often faced with making an inviting living area in a 4'x6' balcony, a small vestibule, or a 10'x10' deck. "Small is beautiful," said E.F. Schumacher, and although he was speaking