A trip down holiday lane

It's always nice to reflect on the past around Christmastime

Christmas Eve is a thrilling time for young kids. I remember anticipating the mysterious overnight arrival of Santa, wondering if I’d get what I asked for: those Roy Rogers guns with the double holsters.I think I did actually get those . . .

Posted: 2016-12-24

Power-saving tips for the holidays

The holidays are expensive, and I’m not talking about buying gifts.We decorated our house over the weekend, and as I plugged in a tangle of extension cords, it made me wonder how much decking the halls was actually going to . . .

Posted: 2016-12-24

Modern, roomy and bright

Smart use of space makes Bridgwater Trails home a must-see

It’s something that becomes apparent about a new home very quickly: whether its floor plan works, or not.In the case of 11 Del Monica Rd. — a.k.a. The Bayview — feedback on the floor plan has been resoundingly positive if . . .

Posted: 2016-12-24

Modernized 1948 house a turnkey operation

Fraser's Grove abode a renovated dream home

Homes built in the 1940s and ’50s can be character-laden, but they can possess shortcomings, too.Those shortcomings can occur in two critical areas: function and finishes. In terms of function, floor plans can be choppy, kitchens can be spartan (to . . .

Posted: 2016-12-24

Holiday parties full of renovation ideas

With all of the hustle and bustle happening this time of year, it may seem odd that I’m talking about renovations, more planning and detail, and spending money. However, when you think about it, this is the perfect time to . . .

Posted: 2016-12-17

Bringing a new light in your life

How to get the same glow as an old-fashioned incandescent bulb

Whatever happened to the good ol’ 60-watt bulb? When I was at my parents’ house for Thanksgiving, my mom remarked to me she needed to buy some light bulbs, but she really had no idea what to buy.I think my . . .

Posted: 2016-12-17

Seal the sump pump lid in battle against mould

Air-tight lid should be compulsory

Question: While doing an online search, I came across an article from the Winnipeg Free Press in which you answered a homeowner’s questions about capping a sump pump pit to combat humidity and radon. I got your contact info from there. . . .

Posted: 2016-12-17

Brighten up your home without breaking the bank

For homeowners with champagne taste and a beer budget (and isn’t that most of us?), it is time to take another look at tile.While a full kitchen remodel might set you back a few years of savings, a smart mini-rehab . . .

Posted: 2016-12-17

Shopping for presents? Don't forget the 'furmily'

Dogs, cats and other animals love gifts, too

Pets and Christmas. First, I don’t like the word "pet, " because it implies an object, a thing, something we can own. Bah humbug, I say!Pets are family, so let’s just call them that from now on shall we? Or . . .

Posted: 2016-12-17

Nailing the perfect Christmas gift

Good tools can be the best present under the tree

The wind is howling and a glistening blanket of cascading white covers the landscape as far as the eye can see.Although the chill of winter has been thrust upon us, it’s the season to gather with family and friends and . . .

Posted: 2016-12-17