HOP creating happy homeowners in West End

At long last, Housing Opportunity Partnership is back building homes in the city's West End."It's been a while, " said HOP's president, Lori Thorsteinson. "I believe we finished our last home on McGee Street back in early 2013. Now that . . .

Posted: 2014-08-22

Dreaming of daylillies

Fleeting flowers can be delectable collectibles

Satisfied with just one bite of a delicious dessert? Or do you wish the taste sensation could last, one spoonful after another? After all, extending the enjoyment is what makes it so good.   For some gardeners, daylilies are enjoyable, but only . . .

Posted: 2014-08-16

Ground rules for your garage makeover

From a cluttered dumping area to usable, airy space

In many homes, the garage is a no man's land -- a place where tools, sports equipment and holiday decorations take over and cars no longer fit. Do you need to transform your garage into a usable space your car will . . .

Posted: 2014-08-16

Decorate nursery with painted fabrics

One of the most joyous of all decorating projects can be a nursery. This room represents both a starting point and a safe haven for a newborn. My advice about how to furnish and decorate this room is to go . . .

Posted: 2014-08-16

Vinyl best for a maintenance-free deck

Is there such a thing as a maintenance-free deck? The answer is that it depends on your definition of maintenance-free. After I wrote two columns on cedar and treated-wood decks -- both of which need to be re-stained every two . . .

Posted: 2014-08-16

Fix unruly brows and hazy hardwoods

QUESTION: I love your column and your ability to communicate with your readers. I have a kitchen hint and a puzzling question for you. Hint: If you like stuffed green olives (like I do), don't throw away the brine. Cut . . .

Posted: 2014-08-16

Fire-blight disease must be treated quickly

What does the disease look like?   Fire-blight disease (Erwinia amylovora) has not been too bad in recent years in southern Manitoba, but this year it is affecting susceptible trees with a vengeance. In our area this bacterial disease occurs mostly on . . .

Posted: 2014-08-16

Sizing up your siding options

If your home needs new siding, start planning now. Siding or cladding protects your home from the elements -- especially precipitation -- making it less vulnerable to mould, rot and all their related issues. When it comes to materials, the three leading . . .

Posted: 2014-08-16

Family-friendly move-up

Signature design offers style and value

Truth be told, few young families looking for a move-up home can comfortably afford a luxuriously appointed 2, 500-square-foot home. Which is why Signature Homes created the Duffrin II, said the company's sales representative for Bridgwater Lakes, Maximum Realty's Jeff McArthur. "Originally, . . .

Posted: 2014-08-16

Peace and privacy

La Salle home offers space and serenity near the city

As convenient as city life is, one thing doesn't always come with it, (OK, make that two): space and serenity. Deep down, you know there's the possibility of coming home to neighbours having a party accompanied by loud music -- or, . . .

Posted: 2014-08-16