DIY Life

It's time to pack up those pool accessories and face the facts -- cooler weather is here to stay, whether we like it or not. Still, you can have a bit of a last hurrah with those old pool noodles you've got scattered around your back patio. Why not transform your average noodle into a fabulously unique chair with this tutorial from Instructables?

One tip from our expert designer? "The chair's joints are cast aluminum, made using the lost styrofoam process. I know most people don't have access to a foundry, and getting custom work cast is expensive. However, the joints could just as easily be made out of wood, hopefully something that provides a nice contrast to the plywood"

In other words, get creative with a few inexpensive and crafty materials to keep the bill low and the work unique. Sometimes having a budget is the best way to ensure you have a one-of-a-kind piece!

Happy crafting!

How much time do you spend cleaning your house? I tend to neglect it for a few days then spend an entire afternoon scrubbing. The problem with my every few day strategy is that I never feel like the house is never really clean and I'm constantly playing catch-up. If you're in the same boat, check out this Keep It Clean Plan. They suggest that you put in just 19 min. each day and your house will keep it's clean fresh look. Here's the breakdown.

• Kitchen - 4.5 min.
• Bathroom - 2min.
• Bedroom - 6.5 min
• Family room, living room, foyer - 6 min.

You'll have to mix it up to fit with the size of your house and difficulty of each room, but it actually seems like pretty reasonable time allotments. This plan goes as far as to break down each room into smaller tasks. Prompting you on what to do in each room is a big help. Stressing the importance of a clean empty sink, they remind you that there are some key things you can do to create a clean impression quickly.

This article assumes that you are dealing with clutter as it happens. There is no allotment for putting away toys or dealing with the craft mess you've had out all week. Do you think your house can be cleaned in 19 minutes a day?

Okay, so you have an idea of a home theater, but knowing exactly where to put speakers can be a guessing game. Not anymore. Setting up a home theater is easier than you think. Most people don't want a separate movie room, and for good reason. Most of us are not part of the Motion Picture Academy of Directors and don't need the $600 movie chairs with cup holders (although my husband would argue this). It only takes two great things to make any living room into a great movie room: audio set-up and video quality.

I'm not an audio or visual expert, but I do know what works in my room and my set-up. Every room and personal preference is different, so trust yourself when it comes to making adjustments and modifications for your set up. However, here are the basics for any home theater.