Clearing up Clutter in the Kitchen

Got clutter? Well, if you live in the typical household, clutter is a major problem. You can find that clutter building up everywhere in your home including the bedrooms, the basement, the family room, and, of course, the kitchen. The kitchen tends to be the center of attention in most households and, as a result, this space will tend to accumulate a majority of the clutter. The kitchen countertops become covered with mail, school papers, and water bottles. The kitchen drawers become a jumbled mass of pens, pencils, notepad paper, and even kitchen items like paring knives, and lemon and lime reamers. And then there are the cabinets which are jammed with every pot, pan, lid, and dish that you have accumulated over the years.

So what is the best way to get rid of the clutter? You just have to take a stand and start cleaning up the clutter in each zone. Starting with the most visible area, the kitchen countertops, take everything off of your counters and relish in the fact that you actually do have counter space. Throw out any mail, school papers, and magazines that are not relevant anymore. Don’t put anything on the kitchen counter that isn’t relevant to cooking or preparing your meals. Once you have the space, you can get organized by picking up some kitchen accessories for that countertop. Glass kitchen canister sets will not only allow you to efficiently store your dry goods but given the fact that they are see-through there will be no problem identifying which dry good is stored in each container. If glass isn’t your cup of tea you can also buy them in ceramic, wood, aluminum, stainless steel, or pewter. Whatever your kitchen décor you will be able to find a storage solution to fit in well on your countertop.

Now you come to your kitchen drawers and cabinets. The problem with a drawer and a cabinet is that the clutter is concealed behind the closed doors. So, when you look at your kitchen now that your countertops are in order, you aren’t really motivated to clean what is inside those cabinets and drawers. One way to get motivated is to try to find something in those cabinets and drawers. Start with dumping out your kitchen drawers and insert kitchen drawer organizers into each one. Now, at least there are dividers that allow you to separate various kitchen items. Only place back into the drawers those items that are related to the kitchen.

You can do the same to your kitchen cabinets by removing all of the items in each cabinet, one by one. While the cabinet is empty clean out the shelves and possibly lay down new shelf paper. Then place the less-utilized items on the top shelf and the more utilized items on the lower shelves. Maybe pick up a few turntables or lazy Susans so that you can place your pots, pans, or food items on a revolving surface for easy accessibility.

When you are done with this exercise, your kitchen will be much more manageable. It will be much more pleasurable to cook your meals in a clutter-free, organized space. So get motivated and clear out that kitchen. After you do, you’ll be upset that you didn’t tackle this project a lot sooner.

Kitchen accessories have a primary purpose:  to add convenience to the functions within the kitchen.  Previously, kitchen accessories were only seen for the purpose of function.  Each item had a duty and that was its only intent.  In modern times, kitchen decor accessories with purpose and style are in the forefront of the homeowners mind.  Much attention is paid to the detail of a kitchen’s design.  Elements such as flooring, fixtures, and appliances focus, not only, on function but on beauty, as well.  It is only natural that kitchen accessories should follow this same idea.

One of the first items that comes to mind in terms of function and aesthetic are canisters.  At one time, canisters were simply used to keep items such as flour, sugar, and salt fresh and free from moisture.  While this holds true today, many modern kitchen canisters are created to sit on the counter, providing an attractive view within the kitchen.  This kitchen accessory comes in many options including ceramic, stone, and metals.

Another item that was once merely needed for its practical use is the trivet.  Trivets have always been an excellent place for cooking utensils, keeping the stove top free of messes.  Today, however, this kitchen accessory comes in many styles, colors, and materials.  It not only keeps a counter clean, but decorates it, as well.

Spice racks and containers show this same idea.  A spice rack is a kitchen accessory that provides a convenient means of accessing all spices during the kitchen process.  However, models of a modern spice rack vary considerably.  There are options for installing the spice rack upon a wall, freeing counter space for other uses.  Additionally, there is a lazy Susan style rack that can hold many spices within a small space.  This kitchen accessory comes in many materials including wood, plastic, and metal.

Kitchen accessories dominate our kitchen areas.  Without these items, cooking and entertaining would simply not be possible.  While each item has its own unique purpose and its function of great value, the fact remains that there is a priority among homeowners to purchase styles that are pleasing to the eye, as well.  Because options are plentiful, one can find many options from which to choose that accommodates need, taste, and style.  Furthermore, there is no need to panic over price, because there are many places to purchase these kitchen accessories, one has the luxury of shopping around for the best value.

Dining is small spaces can be a nightmare without the proper dining furniture.  Don’t try to fit in furniture that is too large for your dining room or kitchenette merely because it looks pretty. Consider a bistro table!  Bistro is a French word that originally referred to small, casual, Parisian restaurants… and the furnishings used there, of course, were bistro tables.

A bistro table set can come in cast aluminum, wrought iron, even wicker and woods, fit for all weather.  Though officially for casual dining, bistro tables and chairs are now available in highly decorative styles, traditional or contemporary.  Simple styles, ornate details… Your bistro table and chairs will be the perfect dining addition for your space.

Here are some styles of bistro table sets that are particularly popular.

Bistro dining table:  These are indoor table sets that are generally large enough to seat four.  Solid wood sets may also have a leaf in order to extend.  The bistro dining table can come in any material, and is available in all styles to complement your dining area.  Aluminum or wicker with glass tops, solid wood or wood with stone tops, cottage styles or regal ornate designs.

Outdoor bistro table:  Perfect for your patio or deck!  Often smaller, the outdoor bistro tables will be made fit for all weather; wrought iron, stainless steel, or special wickers and woods.  These bistro table and chairs set will often include only two chairs.  But the designs are delightful!  Glass tops, ornate bases, delicate accents.  Be sure to look for a mosaic bistro table, or one with a ceramic tile or granite top.   These designs have great character.  Look at your surroundings; in the garden, head for the delicate metals or wicker and wood.  Steel and stone might be more appropriate for a poolside bistro table, as wood the wrought iron bistro table.

Folding bistro table:  By far the most casual form of bistro tables, the folding bistro table can be for indoors or outdoors.  It will be simple, small, and straightforward, with minimal decorativeness and standard legs. Often, but not solely, found in wood, the folding bistro table is convenient as a side table, kitchenette table or lightweight decorative patio piece.

Consider your space, number you need to seat, décor in place, and the environment you’re creating.  Skim through furniture magazines, websites, or even window shop until you’ve found the perfect bistro table.  It is out there.

Owning a hand blender is becoming more and more common in a typical kitchen. Soups and baby food are that much simpler to puree with the simple stem blender. What most people don’t realize is how versatile this appliance can be. The Braun multiquick hand blender, for example, comes with a number of accessories that allow you to blend, chop, whip, slice, shred, and even knead. All with one simple Braun handheld blender. Depending on the model you choose, from Professional to Classic, you’ll have all the Braun hand blender parts for every dish, every time.

The Braun Professional hand blender, the top of Braun’s Multiquick line, performs all the functions of a full food processor with one minimalist tool. It even includes a kneading hook that handles heavy doughs. It is supposed to knead as evenly as hand kneading. Of course, the Professional will also blend, puree, whip, beat, and stir. It is equipped with an anti splashing shaft to keep all the food in your bowl. With an additional bowl accessory, you can chop, slice, crush, or shred, as well!

Other Braun hand blenders on the market are the Braun Multiquick Harmony/advantage and Classic. These models come with fewer Braun hand blender accessories, but are still powerful and versatile. The Harmony performs as a Braun hand blender chopper whisker. It does not knead or crush like the Professional. It also extracts air and keeps it out to ensure tasty, fresh food. The Classic is slightly less versatile, and doesn’t have the additional fresh feature.

The best thing about these hand blenders is the amount of space you will open up in your kitchen. When you are serious about whipping up great meals in short time, you don’t want to lug out large appliances that require high levels of attention, space, and clean up. With the hand blender, your counter tops remain spacious and neat. That means more space for the food, less spent on machinery.

Braun is making a continuous effort to increase ease and enjoyment in the kitchen. With style and class, any serious cook can have the time of his or her life, without having to work in a professional hotel kitchen. In fact, with a Braun hand held blender and other Braun appliances, the food that leaves your kitchen can be comparable to any five star institution. Give these beautiful little machines a try, and you won’t be disappointed.

Your bedroom has been feeling a little drab. Your patio feels empty and lifeless. The cat has ruined your living room area rug. For all these problems, I can offer you one tremendous and exciting solution: a zebra rug.

Zebra rugs have personality, funk, character, life, and beauty. No matter where you put them, guests will comment on the flair. Day in and day out, you’ll appreciate the zest. It’s almost hard not to walk and talk without some spunk in your step around a zebra print rug. So if your room has fairly simple décor, a scheme of primary colors, or hardly any distinct color at all, you can definitely flaunt some a zebra area rug. The other option, of course, is to fully redecorate. Make your zebra skin rug the focal point. Build from there for a enlivened, modern look you can’t regret.

You will have to decide how much you can spend on one of these beauties, of course. Real zebra hide rugs can be quite an expense. Especially for a large space. Smaller skins will be slightly more affordable, but still not within everyone’s budget. The real thing also requires extra care and maintenance.

The best way to go for cheap zebra rugs are the faux zebra rugs. They are a fraction of the price, and a fraction of the maintenance. You can easily find a great looking faux zebra rug in nearly any shape and size, even in some hot colors. On eBay, you’ll find great prices on a pink zebra rug. A local discount vendor will offer you some mind-blowing deal on a brown zebra rug. When you realize this, all it takes is a little research in order to make both the sophisticated great aunt and the wild teenager happy on their upcoming birthdays.

If you go with the faux, even your bathroom and patio can enjoy zebra print rugs without you having to worry about rain, sun, or bathtub overspill. Buy a machine washable or zebra outdoor rug, and throw those worries out the window. This fun style should be a thrill, from beginning to end. The one thing I do have to say, however, is that you shouldn’t take all the advice I’ve given. Using zebra area rugs in your living room, bedroom, bathroom, and patio might be a little overwhelming for some guests. Limit your zebra décor to one or two areas. That way, you’ll achieve real style.

If you are considering installing a water filter in your home you may be wondering about the different types of filters and filtration mediums out on the market. There are many choices, to the point where it can become bewildering.

It’s important to remember that the filtration method you use is directly related to the problem you are trying to address. Few, if any, filters on the market will filter absolutely everything out of your water. A logical starting point, then, is to figure out the nature of your problem. Does your water taste bad? Does it have a chlorine smell when you shower? Are there strange red or brown rings around your sinks?

Now that you know the nature of the problem, here are four major kinds of filtration mediums to help resolve it:

1) Carbon filters. Carbon water filters are among the simplest and most effective filtration mechanisms. They can filter out a variety of impurities and organisms, depending on filter quality. They are good for removing chemicals like chlorine. Check the product specifications to make sure your particular problem can be handled. The most important thing to look for on a carbon water filter is the micron rating–which is a measurement of how big or small a particle can be captured. The lower the micron rating, the smaller the particles that can be captured.

2) Ultraviolet fillters. UV water filters are useful when you absolutely need to kill any living thing in the water, such as bacteria and viruses. They are therefore excellent for sterilization, but will not remove other kinds of particles from your water. These filters are most often used in situations where bacteria are highly likely to be in the water, such as a well near agricultural runoff and in some countries lacking superior water filtration infrastructure.

3) Ceramic water filters. These filters come as cartridges that are made of porous ceramics containing diatomaceous earth, which are basically the remains of fossilized algae from millions of years ago. Some ceramic filters also incorporate nanosilver, a known antibacterial substance. As water is brought in through the porous ceramic cartridge, it leaves behind detritus and contamination, emerging clean and pure on the other side. These filters work great for particulate matter and some bacteria, but are not as good for removing chemicals.

4) Reverse osmosis water filters. These kinds of filters essentially pressure water through a fine membrane that acts as the filtration medium. Some membranes used commercially can even desalinate water, turning it from salty sea water into drinkable fluid. They can likewise filter out a large number of contaminants. This is a reliable filtration process that can remove almost anything, but it can be slow, energy intensive, and relatively expensive.

There are other types of water filters, but these are the ones you are most likely to run into as part of a project to add water filters to your home. The best thing to do is to figure out what you are trying to filter out, and then pick the most efficient and least expensive option. When in doubt, read the product’s description, as any high quality filter will tell you exactly what it can and cannot remove from your water supply.

One of the most popular pieces in the Cuisinart Multicad Pro series is the frying pan, or skillet. It comes in three sizes, 8 inches, 10 inches, and 12 inches, and is also available with a nonstick coating. Since a frying pan is one piece of cookware that is used so often, it’s easy to understand why the Cuisinart Multiclad Pro fry pan is also one of the pieces of this line that is in the highest demand.

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You have two options when it comes to buying Cuisinart fry pans, you can purchase them individually, or as part of a set. If you opt for the more popular set, the complete Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel 12 piece cookware set, you’ll get the 8 inch and the 10 inch Cuisinart frying pans included with it. If you want to have the 12 inch skillet, or any of the non-stick pans, you’ll have to purchase those separately.

The Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel cookware 7 piece cookware set is the smaller, more basic of the two sets, and it only comes with the 10 inch Cuisinart fry pan. Again, any of the other Cuisinart frying pan models can be purchased separately. While it can be a bit frustrating to not have all of the options at the start, you’ll get a chance to see which ones you really need, instead of just guessing before you buy.

There are a few really nice things about these pans. For one, even if you don’t get the non-stick versions, they have a very smooth finish inside, and most people find that the food slides out easily if you just use a spray of Pam. Of course, this will depend on what exactly you are cooking, and at how high a heat, so it will vary from one person to another.

Another feature you’ll enjoy is the helper handle which is included on the 12 inch skillets. Like all the handles in this series, it’s very smooth and comfortable to hold, but unlike the main handles, it can get very warm, and even hot due to it’s location, so be aware of that before you take it off the stove.

Whether you decide that you want to purchase an additional Cuisinart stir fry pan to add on to a larger Multiclad collection, or this will be your first experience with the line, you’ll be pleased to discover that they are actually quite affordable. One of the great things about the Multiclad Pro series is that there are a lot of extra cookware options, such as the Cuisinart Multiclad Pro casserole with lid in addition to the fry pans, and it won’t cost an arm and a leg to add to your collection.

The frying pans are usually priced between $70 and $150, depending on which size you getting, and if it has the additional nonstick coating on it or not. However, you can get the lowest prices on Amazon, plus free shipping as well. There, they are usually about 40% less expensive than most other retailers online.

The Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel 12 piece cookware set is definitely my top pick when it comes to quality cookware at a great price that you’re absolutely going to love. But while it has just about everything you’re going to need when cooking on a daily basis, there are a few things that it doesn’t come with. One of those is the Cuisinart Multiclad Pro casserole with lid, which you can purchase separately to complete your larger set.

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While you might wonder why you need a stainless steel casserole dish when you probably can find a ceramic one for a lot less, there are some really great things about this piece that make it a must-have for any serious cook.

One of the best things about the Cuisinart Multiclad Pro casserole pan with lid is that its a one stop shop for making casseroles. You can mix the ingredients in it, put it up to cook on the stove, add the toppings, and then pop it in the oven. Talk about cutting down on dishes, mess, and extra steps! In fact, it’s such a beautiful piece that you can even take it right out of the oven and put it on the dining room table. It’s brushed stainless steel finish will sparkle and shine among the rest of your china and beautiful serving pieces.

Do keep in mind that unlike the rest of the handles in the Multiclad Pro series, these will get warm, and when you put it in the oven, they will of course get hot. Actually, all of the “helper handles” in this series will get warm on the stovetop, simply because they are so much lower down and closer to the burner.

You can get the Cuisinart Multiclad Pro casserole dish with lid in two sizes, a 3 quart and a 5.5 quart, depending on how many people you usually cook for. Whether you already have the Cuisinart Multiclad Pro stainless steel cookware 7 piece cookware set or the 12 piece set, this will be an addition you’ll most definitely appreciate. The Cuisinart Multiclad Pro fry pan is another popular addition, and these two pieces together, in addition to your larger set, will cover just about any dish you’ll want to make.

You can read more customer reviews on this casserole set on Amazon. Once you have your own, you’ll see just why this pan has a 4.5 star rating, and loads of thrilled reviews.

When it comes to quality cookware at affordable prices, the Cuisinart Multiclad Pro line can’t be beat. It’s a beautiful series made with quality materials and with lots of thought put in to the “extras”. This combination makes for a user experience that really can’t be beat, but at the same time, roughly $250 (and up to $320 if you can’t get it at Amazon) for the complete 12 piece set is just too much for a lot of folks. Plus, if you’re not a busy chef, you really might not need so many cookware choices. If that sounds like you, then its little brother, the Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel cookware 7 piece cookware set might be the perfect alternative you’re looking for.

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I’ve already done a detailed review of the Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel 12 piece cookware set, where I detail all of the reasons why this is such a cookware masterpiece, and just what you’re getting when you purchase. But in case you aren’t ready for quite that large a cookware set, let’s go over what you’ll be getting in the smaller collection.

The Cuisinart Multiclad Pro 7 piece cookware set includes:

• a 1.5 Qt. saucepan with cover
• a 3 Qt. saucepan with cover
• a 8 Qt. stockpot with cover
• a 10″ skillet

This gives you a really good basis for most everyday cooking. The skillet is big enough to fry up about five eggs, the saucepans are perfect for most dishes, whether it’s just you or you’re cooking for some company, and the stockpot will hold over 30 servings of soup.

The differences between the Cuisinart Multiclad Pro stainless steel cookware 7 piece set and the 12 piece set is that the larger set also has an 8″ skillet, a 3.5 Qt. sauté pan and cover, and a steamer insert with a cover, which fits inside the 3 Qt. saucepan.

The truth is that these pieces aren’t absolute essentials, particularly if you are not a big fan of cooking. The smaller skillet is something that the average cook can usually do without, since you can almost always just use the larger skillet, and if you never steam vegetables, you won’t miss the steamer (although I highly recommend that you give it a try one day, you might become addicted!).

The sauté pan though, is something that you might really miss having, since you can sauté so much more than when using the larger skillet. It’s hard to get a good stir fry going in such little space. However, you can always buy the Cuisinart Multiclad Pro fry pan or sauté pan separately at a later point.

Which is what is so nice about a set like this. For a basic starter cookware set, it’s a great selection. You can always add on to it over the years, and it’s nice to know that you’re not spending money on pieces that you don’t really need. The Cuisinart Multiclad Pro casserole with lid is something that many people find that they have a real use for, but it’s not included in either set, so you’re not missing out. But it definitely is more cost effective to buy the additional pieces as part of a set rather than separately.

It basically boils down to what you’re current situation is now. If you’re a budding gourmet who can afford $250-$300, then by all means, grab the 12 piece set. But if your cuisine repertoire doesn’t get much farther than spaghetti and meatballs or you’re on a pretty tight budget but want a quality set, the Cuisinart Multiclad Pro stainless steel cookware 7pc cookware set is probably just what you’re looking for.

When it comes to finding the best stainless steel cookware, the name All Clad tends to come up a lot. All Clad has the reputation of being the absolute top of the class, and it is indeed a really great line of cookware. But there is one other line that not only meets its quality, but surpasses it. And surprisingly, you won’t have to spend nearly as much. The Cuisinart Multiclad Pro stainless steel line is head and shoulders above All Clad, and costs less than half the amount.

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Here are some of the reasons that the Cuisinart Multiclad Pro cookware is so much better:

Rolled Edges

One thing any chef can’t stand is those dribbles of food that tend to run down the side of the pots and pans. What a mess they make! All pieces in the Cuisinart Multiclad Pro stainless steel cookware set come with rolled edges, which almost completely eliminate this problem.

All Clad’s stainless cookware has straight edges, with nothing to keep those drips from messing up the sides of your pots and the counter. Only their top of the line Copper Core set has rolled edges, but a set of that is nearly 10 times the price of the Multiclad Pro, which is not something most people would want to have to spend for a cleaner kitchen.

Superior Handles

One of the things that Cuisinart Multiclad Pro reviews always rave about are the handles. They are just so well designed that its almost hard to believe. They are not overly heavy, and are shaped perfectly to fit in your hand as you carry the pot. Plus, there are no hard edges at all. They also give you great control of motion so you can move your food around manually while cooking, with just a shake, flip, or toss.

The All Clad handles, on the other hand, are actually a bit uncomfortable. They have hard edges that curve up on the top, and if you are carrying a pot full of food or liquid it can be hard to hold and even painful.

Lot’s of Lids

Many All Clad pots and pans don’t come with lids; they have to be purchased separately. On the other hand, all of the Cuisinart pieces do, with the single exception of the skillets. However, the lids from other pots and pans in the set fit the skillets well, so it’s something you likely won’t even notice in your everyday cooking.

Costs Can’t Compare

Finally, there’s the price issue. The Cuisinart stainless steel cookware offers so much more than the All Clad does, and at a real fraction of the cost. While I have no qualms about paying more for a higher quality product, that’s just not the case here. When you buy All Clad, you’re definitely paying for the brand name, which is really pretty silly.

For a simple price comparison, the complete Cuisinart Multiclad Pro stainless steel 12 piece cookware set costs roughly the same amount (depending on where you purchase) as the All Clad stainless 8 quart stockpot — and the Cuisinart set includes that piece! It’s honestly bordering on insanity to choose the All Clad over the Cuisinart.

Aside from the full 12 piece set, there are several other popular pieces of cookware in the Multiclad Pro line. They are:

• the Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Casserole with Lid
• the Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Fry Pan
• the Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel Cookware 7 Piece Cookware Set

Another old favorite, the Cuisinart Multiclad Pro 17 piece set is no longer available for sale. However, since it has been discontinued, the Multiclad Pro series has undergone a real makeover and has not only had improved features, such as being induction safe, but has also had a tremendous price drop, making it a truly affordable option to buy the 12 piece set and just purchase any items that you’d like but aren’t included, separately.

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Remodeling your kitchen requires many steps and one of the more difficult undertakings is the kitchen cabinets themselves. Just by doing some cabinet refacing or refinishing your kitchen cupboard doors, you can give your kitchen an entirely new look. The modern looking kitchen of today often has a clean finish. You can achieve this with clean and simple white cabinets, which also happens to be a pretty easy kitchen cabinet refacing job.

There are many cabinet designs available, you need not be restricted simply to white. If your only concern is the style of the doors, you can either replace, repaint or re-stain them. Preparing for this project will involve removing the doors from the cabinets and removing the hinges and other hardware. Next, you’ll be cleaning the doors with a de-greaser so your paint or stain will be applied properly. You can sand now or do this first, then clean. Sanding will give you a much better finish. Repainting may enough, but you might also need to use a primer coat if you are painting the raw wood. If re-staining, this is obviously not necessary. Once your paint or stain is completely dry, you can re-hang the hinges and hardware on the doors.

At this point, you can decide if you’d like to add new hardware or use your existing items. You can finish off this new and improved look in your kitchen by using new drawer pulls and handles. Your overall kitchen decor will determine what type of hardware you can pull off, so to speak. If you have an island, maybe your kitchen remodeling plans call for those to remain the same, refinishing or replacing only the hanging cabinets. By having all of the kitchen cabinets with matching hardware, you can get away with having the doors of island look different; the hardware makes the look cohesive. With most kitchen remodels, there is also a new paint color to go on the walls.

If your cabinet refacing is going to be repainting, you can decide if you’ll use the same color as that of the kitchen walls. There is also the possibility that you’ll opt for a door with a panel or insert, instead of a solid style that is stained or painted. The open air feeling in many modern kitchen can be achieved with either clear or opaque glass inserts. A nice look can also be achieved using a metal insert, rather than glass at all. When using metal in the kitchen, copper, stainless steel and brushed aluminum are some of the most popular. There are also ways to punch, engrave and emboss the metal kitchen cupboard doors to give them even more personality.  At the end of the day, take a step back and enjoy your kitchen’s new look.  Kitchen cabinet refacing is indeed a rewarding job!

If you are thinking about adding an outdoor kitchen to your home, it is important you go into this project with a plan. In order to come up with the right outdoor kitchen plans for your space, you have to take a long hard look at the area in which you want to build the project. You will also need to have a good understanding of what your budget is, and then you can get into the particulars of which items on your wish list you can fit and which you might have to sacrifice.

This is a project that can add substantial value to your home if handled properly. Think about this, if you and a neighbor have essentially the same house, but one of you has added a quality outdoor food preparation area, if everything else is equal the home with that extra will be more attractive and worth more to potential buyers.

Make a list of those things you really want in the completed project. These are the things that you picture in your mind when you think about what you want the space to look like. Perhaps it is as simple as a grill and refrigerator, or maybe it is much more elaborate and you want a large bar area and things like an ice maker and wine cooler. There is no right or wrong when it comes to outdoor kitchens. There is just what you want and what your space and budget can accommodate. When you get those things in sync you will have developed the best outdoor design for your situation.

Before you get into exactly what construction method you want used or what color or type of counter tops you want, it is important that you come to a decision the basic footprint of what the kitchen will look like. This means you have to look at your space and come up with dimensions and shape for the cabinet and any bar areas. Keep in mind that if you have a bar your bar stools will stick out further. If you have a pool, keep safety in mind. the last thing you want is for a guest to be sitting at your bar one moment and in the next moment find himself in the pool. Make sure you can realistically fit the design you are planning.

Once you know the footprint of the cabinets, you will be able to accurately know what appliances you can fit and what, if anything, might have to be sacrificed from your wish list. If you are tight on space, there are ways to combine things and save space. For example, if you want a grill and a side burner, you can get a unit that is a grill with the side burner attached. This will save space, and there are quite a few of these outdoor kitchen grills to choose from. If you are having trouble fitting everything into your plan and you want both an ice maker and a refrigerator, you can get  outdoor refrigerators with an ice maker inside. You sacrifice some refrigeration space, but you save by not needing a separate ice maker. The same applies if you want both a wine cooler and refrigerator. There are duel units available that have side by side doors and separate cooling zones. You can keep your wine at the right temperature and your other refrigerated items at their own temperature all in one unit.

Once you know the footprint you want for your outdoor kitchen, you can begin to get into things like plumbing and electrical needs. Both of hose items can add a substantial amount to your budget if they are not already present in the area you plan to add the kitchen. The best way to figure cost is to bring in 2 or 3 plumbers and electricians and get a couple of different prices for each. This will give you a good idea of how much you need to budget for utilities. When bringing in an electrician, keep in mind to have them include things like power for the vent hood, if you plan on one, and at least a couple of outlets in the counter top area.

You are now well on your way to developing your outdoor kitchen ideas. It is time to start exploring the different types and style of outdoor kitchen cabinets, and start researching the various outdoor kitchen appliances on your wish list.

Kitchen islands and carts come in so many sizes, designs and colors that your faced with a very difficult task of choosing the right one for your home. If you find yourself stuck choosing one, here are the top 3 kitchen islands and carts that are on the market today.

Black Kitchen Island Table with Granite Tops & Drawers by Coaster

Coaster has been in the furniture industry for over 20 years, and has been come one of the most prominent and respectable furniture producers in America. Therefore, it’s not surprising to see them take on their own iteration of a kitchen island and cart. With a black finish, grey granite top and silver finishings, this item is great for a contemporary or minimalist kitchen décor. Great thing about this particular product is that it as many storage drawers and shelves. Not only that, it even holds wine glasses at an easy to reach level! Priced at $170.39, it’s not only cheap but a great investment for any home.

Catskill Craftsmen Drop Leaf Utility Cart with Drop Leaf, White Base with Natural Top by Catskill Craftsmen

If your home décor is more geared towards the old country style, then this product by Catskill Craftsmen is for you. $169.00 offers a warm cedar finish with golden handles and knobs. The countertop is made of solid timber, however it doesn’t have an extendable countertop. In place it has a hanger, which allows you to attach your cleaning cloth easily. It’s also fixed with wheels to allow easy transport.

Napa Kitchen Center by Home Styles

This product by Home Styles is an all-rounder, and guaranteed to match any home thrown at it. With a symmetrical design and finished with beech wood timber, it has a universal design which not only is functional, but beautiful to look at. It features silver handles and knobs, space to store your extra dishes, towels and bowls and also a large countertop to work with. Although it’s the most expensive of the three, weighing at $289.95, it’s looks, features and style is all worth it.

You’ll be able to find these cheap kitchen islands and carts over at Amazon if your eager to have one of these beautiful items in your home. Bare in mind there is a bit of assembly involved, but after all that hard work you’ll be greeted with one of the most utilized and efficient pieces of work that’ll stay in your home for many years to come.

So you’ve had enough of making the long trek from the kitchen to your outdoor entertainment area every time you have guests?  I don’t blame you.  It’s  a common problem.  The chef is trapped in the kitchen, preparing food for everyone, and having none of the fun.  Fortunately, there is a solution.  Bring the food to the party.  In other words, build a kitchen which is actually in, or next to, the place you usually entertain your guests.  Outdoor kitchens are a great way of not missing out, saving time, and still getting the job done.

Limitations to Outdoor Kitchens
An outdoor kitchen can be handy in a lot of ways.  They are often excellent for keeping cutlery within easy reach of any meal you’re preparing, and sometimes, if you keep a few beers in a fridge you keep outdoors, you may not even have to get up from your deck chair to grab one.

Money Restrictions
Outdoor kitchen designs can be highly customised, depending on the limitations you are facing.  Often your budget is the factor which restricts how fully kitted out your outdoor kitchen plans can be.  This should not be the case though, as usually an outdoor kitchen will add far more value to the value of your property than it costs to install.  This may sound somewhat counter intuitive, but it is true.

When you think about it, you don’t need walls, often installations are quite cheap, you never have to take a day off for the builder to get the job done, and you can effectively advertise the house as having an extra kitchen AND a full outdoor entertaining facility.  Surely that will bump it up price wise.  And you get a great facility to work with in the meantime.

Space Restrictions in Outdoor Kitchen Designs
Space and location shouldn’t really affect your decision too much, as you can make a kitchen fairly compact with many of the latest space saving designs being relatively cheap.

Time Restrictions in Outdoor Kitchen Plans
The only other real restrictions you might have is time.  This is the beautiful part about any outdoor construction.  You don’t need to have to be there to see the builder, electrician, plumber or gas man into your place. Most of the time, they are able to let themselves in and out.  It is ridiculous how easy it can be when you’re building outside the home.

If you’re looking for adjustable kitchen stools, ones that are made with gas lifts, swivel seats, airlifts, modular leather or even faux leather then consider purchasing ones that are made from the right materials and have a great decorative look. Add to the mix some modern coloring and some chrome frames, or even steel frames and you will have an idea of the right type that matches your dreams. Many distributors have their products on the market and if making a choice proves to be difficult then you should take the price into equation. Thus you will ensure you get not just a great deal but make your dreams come true.

If you are a person that fancies a practical adjustable set of kitchen stools, one that comes with a stylish design then you should do a search online or look for stores based on the name Winsome. This manufacturer produces adjustable airlift stools, which are modern enough for the demands of today’s people but retain their practical uses. A classic kitchen decorated with such stools will not seem like a crazy idea at all. Winsome is also in the business of making backless stools, which you can easily purchase if the thought of not having enough space is causing you some serious unrest. The full sized adjustable kitchen stools with arms, backs, and three legged or four legged varieties, even pedestal ones are a great option.

Decorate Your Kitchen with Funky Bar Stool

If you desire a set of contemporary adjustable kitchen stools to match your kitchen furniture, one that remains stylish along the years and is in a price range you can easily afford then you should check out what Euro Style has to offer. Modular seats, curved seats, or even bright colored cherry red seats are right at home with this manufacturer.

Going Retro Funky

A great brand which is all about funky is Walker Edison. They make adjustable stools, stools that swivel, stools that are great for that moment when you have an ice-cream look or a soda fountain look for your kitchen, all packed in an offer with a more than adequate price. A variety of styles from Walker Edison are being sold online through their distributors, and where there are many distributors there are great competitive prices.

Three brands of Funky Adjustable Kitchen Stools

1. If top on your list resides a modular curved design with a funky touch that would look nice in a contemporary kitchen then your first choice should be Alphaville Design. Their products have rounded bowl seats, nice squaring, and come with form fitting styles, ones in vinyl and others in modular plastic with chrome on the side.

2. If you are searching for very modern but classic you should begin to look closer at the New York white martini bar leather styles. These Chintaly adjustable swivel kitchen stools come with nickel plating and are considered to be top range products. This nickel plating can be matched with white furnishings, bar tables with a glass top, and even with some accents of chrome.

3. Last but not least if you are looking to purchase some funky bar stools with trendy circular orbit design or red faux leather, try the Universal Lighting adjustable bar and kitchen counter stools which range right under $100.

Slate is a fine-grained natural stone which was formed over thousands of years ago from volcanic ash and clay which had become dense sheets of crystalline mica.  The natural process of intense heat and change in pressure caused the original clay to be transformed into slate.  This material is used in a wide variety of functions in the home from slate tiles for roofing and flooring, to slate countertops in the kitchen and bathroom.

Many kitchen and bath designers choose slate over other materials such as marble and granite because slate has a better natural stone surface and low porosity.  Having low porosity means that it does not require sealing except for certain colors which may require some sealing.  Using slate is a good choice for countertops, not just because of its many advantages, but also because it will provide stylish and elegant designs for your bathroom, kitchen, utility room, or any other room in your home.

Slate countertops have many benefits.  They are stain-free, scratch and heat resistant, as well as being durable and easy to maintain.  Over time, you may experience some mild scratches but you can usually get those out with a sponge.  If you do happen to get deeper scratches, you can get them out with wet steel wool.

Due to its low absorption rate, slate is considered to be anti-bacterial which makes it great for countertops.  You can cut up your vegetables and prepare your meals without worrying about bacteria buildup or scratching up your counter.  Cleaning your slate countertops is such a simple task.  Just use a sponge or cloth with mild soap or your favorite household cleaner such as Fantastic and wipe them down.  You can also use mineral oil to help maintain your countertops.

Slate comes in many different sizes, shapes, and colors.  If you want a rough cut edge, similar to granite, then slate is perfect for it. You can get your countertops made in various colors of slate such as different shades of green, gray, black, purple, turquoise, red, etc.  If you choose black or gray, though, you may need a sealer.

You can choose to have your slate kitchen countertops with a honed finish which is a smooth matte finish or you can choose to go with the glossier look by oiling your countertops.  Slate can also be used for desk tops, bar tops, wall panels, vanity tops, window sills, and more.

Using slate for your countertops may cost a bit more but you can’t beat the quality.  Because of its durability, you won’t have to replace your countertops for years.

The rustic beauty and craftsmanship of antique farmhouse tables has been regaining popularity with the buying public in recent years. Generations ago, a farmhouse kitchen table was often located in the middle of a large kitchen which served as the primary gathering place for members of farming families. A mixture of chairs and benches often served to seat many people for meals. The table and seats would have been crafted from whatever hardwood was available in that particular area at the time. Many people picture these tables as being rectangular in shape and very long but they could also be found in other shapes like circles and squares. In fact, they often pulled double duty as a work area or desk. The usual construction was a series of long wooden planks affixed on top of legs attached to the long edge. The legs would often be hand carved with various designs that can also be found on the earliest tables that originally came from France. These furniture pieces were made to enhance whatever environment they were found in.

The adults would gather together in the kitchen to discuss serious matters. Children would spend daylight hours working the farm and then sit there after dark to attend to school work. The table was easily the hub of life at home and it may be that mystique that makes them so popular today. Life may be much more complicated now than it was then but having a place for a family and friends to gather offers an opportunity to share experiences and converse with one another about their lives.

It may be somewhat difficult to find an authentic farmhouse table at an affordable price these days. Those you do find will likely be quite expensive. There are modern replicas available that are priced according to the skill and time spent by the carpenter who built it as well as the wood used in its construction. Once you add in a reasonable price to deliver such a bulky and heavy table, you can easily see why purchasing a farmhouse kitchen table can require quite a large monetary investment on your part. Before you spend your money, consider the various options and compare prices until you find the table that is right for you.

Do you intend to give your kitchen a really good refurbished look? Are your cabinets looking dingy and out of date? You may not know that it is extremely easy for you to get started refacing kitchen cabinets. You may have not done anything like this before, but you really can do it if you take it step-by-step. Who knows, it may become fun for you and encourage you to explore further refinishing projects throughout the home.

Remember that kitchen cabinet refacing is really rather easy to; all you need is a little bit of time. First you need to collect some easy to get items like sandpaper, wood putty, screwdrivers, sanding blocks and then a really stylish varnish or paint.  Sounds like a trip to the local hardware or big box store.  The makings of a great afternoon.

Back to the project. Remove the doors from their hinges, and unscrew the metal parts. It is much better to take off the cabinets and work in a place where you can sit on some newspapers and scrub off the old finish. You need to remove the grease from the cabinet first. The paint and the old finish can be removed by using mineral spirits, turpentine, denatured alcohol, lacquer thinner depending on whether the finish is wax, latex, shellac, or polyurethane.

It is always a good idea to thoroughly sand the rough areas to provide a smooth foundation and remove any leftover finish. This is imperative since the cabinet will not be as smooth if you don’t take the time at this step.

Wipe off the accumulated dust with a cheese cloth. Fill in the dents with wood putty and sand the puttied areas. Apply paint or stain using bonding agents following the instructions of the manufacturer. Staining kitchen cabinets will add a deep accent that will bring out the beauty of the wood. Apply a good polyurethane to protect the cabinets and let dry thoroughly.

Now is the time to rehang the doors, sit back, and enjoy your hard work.  When it is done, the major difference your cabinet refacing project has made will be apparent, and you will know it was worth it.

Kitchen cabinet refacing is pretty simple when you break down the steps, plan, and slowly work through the steps.

The European firm Beko produces, amongst other things, a wide range of white goods.  Part of their product lineup is a large selection of fridges, freezers and fridge freezers.  This article will outline the available Beko fridge models, sorted by size from largest to tiniest.

At the high-end, Beko has a line of American style fridge freezers.  Bekos side-by-side appliances have a capacity of over twenty cubic feet, which is plenty of space for a large family.  These units are amongst their most expensive, and not surprisingly loaded with features.  Many Beko side by side refrigerators have a water dispenser built into the door, functionality that is lacking in many of their smaller models.

For this who want a more modest Beko fridge, they produce a line of over under fridge freezers.  In these units the fridge and freezer are placed one of top of the other.  These average out to be about half the capacity of the Beko American fridges, but are more than adequate for a medium sized family that does not have a lot of available floor space in their kitchen.

If kitchen space is really tight, or your focus is on cosmetic appeal, then a Beko under counter fridge is a good option for you.  At five cubic feet, these are only a quarter the size of their side-by-side units.  However, if you can live with these volume constraints, you gain the benefits of having your fridge tucked neatly out of sight underneath your cabinets.  This form of integrated fridge can really improve the overall look of your kitchen.

Finally, and more suitable for a game room than a kitchen, Beko produces a mini bar fridge.  These are tiny unit with less than two cubic feet of capacity.  However, given this units ability to make ice cubes as well as cool drinks, it is a great choice for anyone needing bar fridge freezer.

As this discussion demonstrates, Beko fridge freezers come in all shapes and sizes; they have models to suit every application.

a guest post by Susan Garris

The breakfast nook is often a small room that needs to be able to supply big things to the family. You will gather in this space for meals, family game nights, doing homework, or visiting with guests. As a result, you want it to be big enough to accommodate your entire family and maybe a guest or two. In addition, you want it to be comfortable and not feel cramped. There are a few tricks you can use to achieve this result.

First, a corner breakfast table and bench set. Corner tables with corner benches are a great way to get a bigger table into a certain space. When you buy a breakfast table that sits in the middle of the kitchen nook, then you need to leave room on all four sides for chairs to be pulled in and out. This limits the size of the table. However, if you have a corner table with benches then you do not need to leave that room to pull out seating on two of the sides. This means you can gain an extra twelve to eighteen inches in both directions.

Another helpful hint to make your breakfast nook more comfortable for more people is to use a drop leaf breakfast table. This is a table that has a leaf that folds up from under the table at one end. When you do not need a lot od space you can leave the leaf folded up under the table. Then, when you want more room you flip it up and gain an extra few seats. You will need to bring in a bench, chairs, or stools from another room, but you will be able to accommodate more people at your table. This style of breakfast nook table is great for a nook space that is an extension of the kitchen. There may not be enough room for a table as large as what your table is with the leaf up normally, because it is hard to work in the kitchen, but when you are sitting down to eat that is not as important.

a guest post by Liza Ostlund

When you are planning the design for your new kitchen, you may not give much thought to the type of taps you choose, but kitchen sink taps can be an important accent to your decoration, whether your style is classic or contemporary. Only when you start to look will you realize the huge range of designs and finishes available and how these can change the look of your finished kitchen.

First, think about the functionality you require from your kitchen sink tap. You can choose separate taps, mixer taps and high-pressure hose taps, which can be useful for rinsing plates before they are washed or placed in the dishwasher. Remember you will be using your taps multiple times a day for cleaning dishes and washing fruits and vegetables so it is important to choose the type that will be most convenient and time saving for you.

After you have decided on the type of tap to buy, you can start thinking about the look and style. If you have a traditional style kitchen, reproductions of classic Victorian designs can look great. You can also get matching sinks that will go together beautifully. These kitchen sinks and taps will look old but have the advantage of modern technology so will still be easy to use and keep clean. You can also choose silver colored or brass style fittings.

In a modern kitchen, there is no shortage of styles to choose from and your budget may play some part here as the prices can also vary a lot. Kitchen sink mixer taps are the most common style and you can choose from lever type or screw type handles. Ultra modern taps may have no handles at all and be operated automatically by sensor when you place your hands under the tap.

You also have the option of whether to mount your taps on the counter top or the wall. Wall mounting requires additional plumbing and fitting but leaves more space for washing and food preparation – great if you do a lot of cooking or for a professional look to your kitchen.

a guest post by Penelope Carlberg

The kitchen is probably one of the biggest sources of pride for many home owners. It is a place in the house that is often showed off to visitors and guests. That is why a lot of home owners are constantly striving to keep their kitchen looking good and striking in its overall appearance. Being so, kitchens can say lots of things. They can be the showcase of your personality as the home owner; hence, if you find that your kitchen is already looking dull and monotonous, it probably is. So what can you do about it? There are so many ways to improve the kitchen’s appearance so to speak. But one popular kitchen improvement idea that has been well-liked by a big number of home owners is using a tile kitchen backsplash.

Currently, there are two types of tile kitchen backsplashes that are popularly used in many homes – ceramic tiles and porcelain tiles. Both types can literally transform your dull kitchen into a dazzling place. However though, before going on ahead to buy whichever type of kitchen backsplash tiles that suit you, it may be helpful if you would know the difference between these two types of kitchen tiles. Read on.

Density – Porcelain and ceramic kitchen tiles are both made from water, sand, and clay. There seems to be not much difference, isn’t it? Wrong. Porcelain tiles are more compact than ceramic tiles in a sense that the natural clay used in porcelains are very dense. This makes them harder than ceramics.

Color – Ceramic tiles are usually glazed in various colors and designs. This is why ceramics are probably the best bet when it comes to having a backsplash with mural or mosaic patterns. On the other hand, porcelain tiles are usually not glazed. Their inherent characteristic creates an evenly distributed shade across the tile surface.

Prices – Porcelain tiles usually cost more than ceramic kitchen tiles. An 18in x 18in porcelain tile can cost between $4 up to $30 depending on the thickness and type of natural clay used. On the other hand, a similarly sized ceramic tile can cost from $2.00 up to $19 depending on the thickness. Furthermore, ceramic tiles can also be available in various mural sets composing of a few dozen individual tiles. These sets can create a stunning backdrop that will stand out for everyone to see and adore.

by Harriett Greenstein

Have you ever eaten a bad chocolate chip cookie?  Many sweet treats are always delicious, but it is actually very easy to destroy a perfectly good recipe.  While it may seem easy to bake tasty cookies, if you don’t bake a lot, there are some tips you need to remember.  Whether your baking your favorite chocolate chip cookies or you’re trying a new recipe, keep this ideas in mind to avoid bad cookies.

Part of the biggest outcome of your cookies comes from the dough.  If you mess up the dough, your cookies are doomed.  Unfortunately, there are many ways to mess up the dough.  The good thing is that simply by following the recipe closely, you can avoid many of these mistakes.  That means reading the ingredients list and instructions in full before you start.  You should do this before you get the ingredients too so that you don’t get the wrong ingredients or make the wrong substitutes.

photo credit: Kasey Albano

Don’t skip around in the instructions and don’t make substitutions unless you know they are correct.  Better yet, don’t make substitutions period because it rarely comes out as good.  If the instructions say to sift the flour, sift the flour.  If it says to mix the butter and sugar and then add the eggs, don’t mix the eggs and flour and then try to mix in the sugar and butter.  It won’t come out the same.  Most recipes are fairly easy to follow, and if it’s not, you can always find a better recipe.  Follow what it says.

When it comes to cookies, how you bake them has a big effect on the outcome.  Make sure the oven is completely preheated.  Do not put the cookie dough on a warm or hot pan.  Make sure it is room temperature.  Watch the cookies carefully.  If you overcook them, even if they’re not burnt, they will be hard and crunchy.  Follow these simple tips and you can have great cookie results.

Karastan is a superior carpet and area rugs manufacturer, with quality products and a strong role in sustaining our environment. Karastan carpets are woven to recover from footprints, spills, and other stains beautifully. Their guaranteed durability, softness, and easy maintenance mean that Karastan carpeting will last longer. This means less waste. Additionally, their products are woven. Woven carpets and rugs last twice as long as their tufted carpets, so the weave is an essential step in supporting environmental concerns. The Karastan wool carpet and polymer carpet are both produced from renewable or sustainable resources, a further statement towards environmental safety.

Karastan carpet reviews rave beautifully about this company’s products. The consumer comments further attest to Karastan durability, lushness, and beautiful dyes. Karastan truly has engraved its name into the eyes and minds of interior designers. Karastan has unique styles, designs, and color trends that are said to alter the entire atmosphere of a room.  As with any product you buy, one imperative thing to understand before complaining is what your product warranty actually means. Understanding things like “limited lifetime” and “stain resistance” might solve some problems before they arise. For example, “resistant” doesn’t proof against all stains.

Homeowner’s guides say that carpeting is the third most expensive purchase you will make in home décor. Karastan carpet prices certainly make no exception. Some people insist that you’re paying for a name, while others swear that Karastan is worth every penny. One way to lower the expense is to look for discount Karastan carpet dealers. Discount dealers don’t have to pay overhead for being on a main thoroughfare, or upkeep and design in showrooms, etc. They primarily sell to other Karastan carpet dealers. If you shop from online discount stores, you may find incredible deals. The caution to take is always ask and ask again about the carpet fibers, care, durability, warranty fine print, and what their costs include. But finding a beautiful Karastan carpet wholesale might truly make your day. Another option is to wait for a local carpet dealer’s Karastan carpet sale. The shop’s attempt to move in new stock may empty a gorgeous rug into your home.

Originally a carpet and rug manufacturer for residential needs, Karastan commercial carpet is also now on the market. Karastan contract carpet retains the same beautiful reviews for looks and durability. Their innovative design and production technology over the past 80 years have truly impacted the carpet industry.

As the family gets a little bigger or the kids get a little older, you might find yourself desperately looking for extra kitchen and dinette seating. Full sized chairs take up space, are difficult to store, and clumsy to move. Is there any way to make your kitchen welcoming, comfortable, and still spacious? Of course. With kitchen bar stools.

Especially if you don’t have space for a small kitchen table or dining space in your, kitchen counter bar stools are going to solve a lot of your design problems. Scoot them right up to the L shaped counter. It’s a great way to serve snacks. Casual dinners are fun and interactive that way, too. If you need to do some cooking while the kids are doing homework, let them climb those bar stools. You’ll be able to help them along and get your own stuff done at the same time. The same goes for breakfast, arts and crafts projects, and more. In fact, clearing a mess off the counter is easier than off a table; with a couple slides over to the sink and a quick wipe down, the whole affair can be put away. Kitchen breakfast bar stools will help you keep the family together even when they’re doing different things.

If your kitchen is designed with an island in the middle, bar stools are the best way to make use of space. An island is so versatile. It works are cutting, preparing, and table space. Kitchen island bar stools fit neatly around it, adding to the convenience. You can even do your dinner preparations sitting down!

So the big step is really to decide what style of kitchen and bar stools are best. Metals, like steel, iron, and aluminum are common choices. They’re durable and look great. Aluminum are lightweight, as well. Wooden kitchen bar stools are another premium choice. Wood has a certain class of hominess and sophistication rolled into one. They don’t have to be particularly heavy. With wood, you get to choose from a variety of finishes to suit your design taste perfectly.

The best part is that as soon as you own some kitchen stools, you’ll realize how great they are in other rooms, too. Maybe you should buy a number of them at once! Save yourself the second trip out.