Thursday, July 31, 2008

I Stole This Idea



I Stole this Idea from:
www.shelterrific.com/2008/03/25/steal-this-idea-extra-long-conduit-curtain-rod/

I plan to go back and paint these black later on. For now, at least we have curtains! Not bad for being in our house for 2 weeks. When I saw this idea, I knew we would have to try it. I think it cost us about $6 for this extra long rod! No more buying curtain rods that don't fit or work from one house to the other. This works great for us since we move so much!

You will need:
conduit to combine for your curtain rod length
A hacksaw to cut excess length from metal conduit
Conduit connector(s) to join conduit into one rod
Drill to pre-drill holes for screws
Conduit clamps and screws to attach conduit to wall or ceiling (use a stud finder or use anchor screws)


1. Measure your window and decide how long you want your curtain rod to be

2. Visit the electrical section of your local hardware store and choose your conduit. We used 3/4″metal as it was substantial enough without being so thick the curtain wouldn’t fit on it. (If you’re using curtain loops or hangers, be sure to know their diameter so you don’t get conduit that’s too thick.) We chose two 10′ lengths of conduit to give us enough length to pull the curtains completely off the windows. We used a hacksaw to cut down each piece to identical lengths.


3. Use a conduit connector to join the two pieces. We chose a very simple version; you’ll find several varieties at the hardware store and you can get a more heavy-industrial look if you’re into that. This particular connector was attached with just a screwdriver.


4. Mark where you want your conduit to connect to your wall or ceiling — we opted to connect to the ceiling for maximum curtain height — and drill holes for your screws. We used anchor screws to add stability.


5. Screw conduit clamps into the pre-drilled holes.

6. Slide in conduit. Tighten clamp.

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Gopher or Prarie Dog?



During lunch, Jayce looks out the sliding glass door and says, "Moma, I see an animal." I just looked at him a little terrified as I peeked around the corner to see what he was seeing. Oh, my what is that? It was a little animal I've never seen in person. So, is it a gopher or prarie dog? He just came up to the window and acted like he wanted to come inside and play. He stayed at the window for several minutes before he finally ran away. Other than this little animal, we have seen lots of turkeys and deer. I also saw a small rattlesnake on the road, but our neighbors had one in their backyard. Scary!!! What will we see next?

Monday, July 28, 2008

My First Spray Paint Project!

Do you like? I think it looks better. I used a liquid sander. Let that dry for about 10 minutes. I used a Semi Gloss spray paint. I allowed a few minutes between 2 light coats. I came back a few hours later with 2 more light coats. I finally let it dry for 24 hours.

I Love These Two!!!


Here Fishy, Fishy!


Brad's first fish out of the lake here.

Rainbow Brite


Lakyn is wearing the same bathing suit I wore as a little girl. How neat! Thanks Moma for saving it. We had a fun time at the lake yesterday. We love living only minutes from fun!

Thursday, July 24, 2008

Moma's Little Helper

I always have LOTS of help! I wonder how long she will hang on to that passie? Probably as long as I allow it, huh!