Blessed Thanksgiving

As summer leaves us and it unique challenges, fall comes in with a cool breeze and crisp night and a unique set of fall dangers for our canine friends.

Acorns and Oak Leaves - This is a new one for me but its for real. Some dogs like to much on acorns, the problem is that acorns are poisonous to dogs. To top that off, if there is water with oak leaves in it, it may be poisonous as well. So advise your pooch to leave the acorns to the squirrels and no puddle drinking!

Leave Piles - Kids and dogs seem to love those piles of leaves we see this time of the year, at least in some parts of the US. Be careful though, you don’t know what else has been scooped up in creating that pile or what critters might be in there.

Hibernating Animals - Although they probably aren’t hibernating yet, they may have staked a claim and started to setup house. Areas of the yard or trails that were safe in the summer may longer be ideal, so be careful of places that someone may be planning to call home, for this winter.

Allergies - Just because summer is gone, it doesn’t mean all the allergies are too. Fall has its own set of plants and pollens that can affect your dog and you, for that matter. So keep an eye out for itchyness, sneezing and watery eyes,

Halloween - Here in the states this holiday is celebrated at the end of October. It is earmarked by the giving of all kinds of candy as kids (and some adults) travel from house to house. The problem is that some of these trick or treaters can’t wait until they get home. So there they are scrounging around in their bags, in the dark, dropping, tasting and spitting out what they don’t like, all for your dog to find later that week.

Anti Freeze - I can tell you right now, this one will make all the seasonal lists, I write. In the fall, people are checking their anti-freeze getting ready for winter. If this spills on the ground and makes its way into your dog its a very bad situation and he or she will need immediate medical attention. When you get your anti-freeze try to get the one that is animal safe, if you can afford it. Otherwise, make sure to clean up your spills and dispose of any old material properly.

Mushrooms - Mushrooms can be a problem any time of the year but it seems in the fall they really pop out as the ground gets moist. There are all kinds of mushrooms, some are harmless and some are deadly. My dog had a love for mushrooms when he was a puppy and I tried to break him of it with no luck. I think eventually he tied eating the mushrooms with getting sick and stopped; we were fortunate. Avoid any mushrooms for your dog, even ones that you eat; you don’t want fido getting the “taste” for them and then picking up the wrong kind in the backyard buffet.

And finally I would like to invite you to learn more about your dog’s health. Get instant access to various topics such as hot spots. anal glands and others by clicking here: http://www.shetland-sheepdog-station.com/sheltie-health.html

Enjoy the exuberance of the fall season and treat yourself to the visual delight of the golden-yellow hues and the brilliance of the abundant foliage. With the summers on their way out and the romantic chill in the air before the full fledged advent of Jack Frost, you can enjoy unlimited vacationing opportunities in United States. A superb alternative to an expensive hotel or resort would be renting a vacation rental home where you can experience a fulfilling break this fall. Imagine long leisurely countryside walks near your quaint vacation rental cottage which are strewn with leaves and the sunlight filters through the yellow, orange and green trees to create a divine setting for exploration and introspection. It doesn’t get better than this.

The outdoors are superb, the splendid sun warms the vibrant mood and in a picturesque setting you can enjoy the stillness, the peace and tranquility as well as numerous sporting and leisure activities. Avail some good discounts on numerous vacation rental properties and take a break to view this amazing kaleidoscope of colors and nature at its best.

Tennessee

The stillness and tranquility of the Great Smokies beckons you to indulge in its amazing scenery and pristine environs, great outdoor sports and numerous other recreational activities. Drive, ride, bike, hitch-hike through Natchez Trace Parkway and numerous other scenic byways to experience freedom from your usual pace of life. Abounding in countless camping opportunities, the pleasant fall climate allows everyone to enjoy great outdoors. Also available are numerous vacation rental homes where you can make your base to explore these scenic surroundings and participate in many special events. Answer that ‘Call of the Wild” and set out to indulge in some breathtaking vistas, exhilarating sports, vibrant festivals and the rich cultural and historical heritage of this amazing state. Be a witness to the long-awaited Biscuits and Bluegrass Fall Festival and learn about local music, food, and culture of Nashville. Fall for Tennessee this fall!

Pennsylvania

Book a vacation rental in Pennsylvania this fall and be an active spectator to the glorious natural hues of colors as you move along the country roads, highways, and the coastline. Winding rivers, still lakes bearing the reflections of yellow and red colored trees, the brilliance of fall foliage rearing high against the splendid blue sky and the romanticism of the autumn breeze - you’ll surely think aloud that “Life is Beautiful”. Pack your bags and book yourself a charming vacation rental retreat in Pennsylvania to revel in the glory of nature’s colors and vivacity. The scenic views of the Endless Mountains and Susquehanna River, Delaware Water Gap, Elk Scenic Drive, Great Allegheny Passage in the Laurel Highlands, Bucks County and the Brandywine Valley, King’s Gap State Park are simply not to be missed; the blazing red, orange and golden hues are sure to enliven your spirits and the shades of scarlet and subtle yellows will be a soothing treat to your eyes. Watch the red maples flame up with gorgeous scarlet and oak leaves changing into purple in the forests of Philadelphia. Elysburg welcomes you warmly at its gala ‘Covered Bridge and Arts Festival’ this autumn. Pennsylvania has a so much to offer! So hurry!

Maine

Experience a quintessential fall season in Maine this autumn! Numerous scenic byways and trails, many state parks, lakes brimming with picture perfect reflections, vibrant yellows, reds and oranges and the greatest of outdoors, you will be simply mesmerized by the sheer beauty of nature in its pristine form and are sure cherish these memories for years to come. Avoid expensive accommodation options in Maine and retreat to the homely comforts of your vacation rental home or cabin and enjoy some quality times with your loved ones. Right from lakeside golf courses to picturesque coastal villages to spectacular mountain passes, Maine offers one of the most brilliant settings for a splendid holiday. Watch the awesome mountain peaks of Bethel dressed up in exotic autumn hues. Hike, bike or drive and the gorgeous colors of fall will enthrall you during your expedition. Wind your way from Maine Coast to Maine Inland; the rainbow of colors in every twists and turns will simply amaze you.

Vermont

Open your eyes to a panorama of the magnificent blend of yellow and golden this fall on a vacation in Vermont. Enjoy numerous outdoor activities, spectacular views of stupendous lakes, beautiful creeks and forests, cultural and culinary explorations from the comforts of your vacation rental hideout. The tree carpeted peaks of Green Mountain forest, the summit of craggy Haystack Mountain, and the splendid beauty of Groton State Forest are some of the not-to-be-missed this autumn. Fall in love with an extremely charming atmosphere backed by a brilliant glossy setting comprising of rolling hills and meadows, charming countryside and the clear blue skies. Enjoy the band of colors brushing the superb gorge in Quechee. See how blankets of color drape it beautifully from all sides. Enjoy the exotic species of fish and other marine life at Lake Champlain. Make your autumn exceptional colorful and lively!

Colorado

Make the best of your vacation this autumn in Colorado, home to the beautiful Aspen. The forests with quaking Aspen trees rendered fiery yellow and red in the fall and with mountains and crags in the backdrop is a popular tourist attraction. This splendorous beauty amazes and offers a welcome break to the vacationers who make this location their holiday destination during fall. Rejoice the crisp autumn breeze on a hiking trip to the beautiful Rocky Mountain. Take the pleasure of watching the golden leaves kissing your path when you bike or walk along the craggy byways of Crested Butte. Enjoy the vibrant shade of gold everywhere in Colorado. Choose from a great selection of Colorado vacation rentals now and capture some beautiful photographs and memories to carry for a lifetime.

Ajay Chaturvedi is a published author with a travel book to his name. He loves to travel and write about the vacation rental industry.

What if you learned what the five must haves were for fall before the season officially kicked off? Don’t you want to be a step ahead of everyone else and be the envy of your friends? The purpose of this article is let you know what the five fall must haves are for the season.

Here are the 5 must haves to kick start the fall season.

Step 1 - Scarves

Step 2 - Gladiators

Step 3 - Shiny Leggings

Step 4 - Neon Nail Polish

Step 5 - Leather Crop Jackets

Again, the purpose of this article is to show you what you need to be fashion forward and fabulous this fall season.

Let’s get down to the must have details right here and you’ll what to grab for this season today…

Step 1 - Scarves

From Lil Wayne to Kanye West from Rihanna to Rocsi, the scarf is popping up everywhere. You can get them in any color and pattern and the take your fashion game to the next level

Try folding the scarf in half to make a triangle shape, tie it behind your neck, letting the bottom V fall just past your collar bone. Fluff is a little for volume.

Step 2 - Gladiators

The gladiator shoe has moved from the must have of the summer to the must have of the fall. Why? Simply, because it comes in so many varieties. You can grab these babies as stilettos, boots, pumps, booties, wedges, open toes, the options are endless. The secret to wearing the gladiator is to let the gladiator work for you. Wear something more casual and less flashy so that all eyes are on your shoes.

Step 3 - Shiny Leggings

Wanna show off your legs this fall and stay warm? If yes, you have to grab a pair of shiny leggings. The thick lycra material will keep your legs warm and have them looking fabulous. They come is a plethora of colors and textures. The only thing is they’re hard to find. I know where to find them, so see my resource box below for details.

Step 4 - Neon Nail Polish

It seems the acrylic French manicure has been overshadowed by the natural nail with a neon polish. The choices are endless; pink, green, blue, orange, even white. The brighter the better. This is one of the easiest to accomplish must haves for the season because it has DIY written all over it. Don’t feel compelled to match your polish to your outfit. Actually, it looks better as a stand alone color accessory.

Step 5 - Leather Crop Jacket

With the temps going down, you’re gonna need to keep warm. You don’t have to substitute fashion just because it’s a little cooler outside. All you need is a leather crop jacket. The best ones fall at your waist so that you don’t catch a draft. The soft leather is light weight and comfortable and can be worn well over any day or night outfit. Try a bold colored jacket on top of a solid colored outfit! This splash of color will make you look fabulous and keep all eyes on you!

Do you want to learn how I do it? Check this out…

“Way Too Fabulous Boutique” Its Not Just A Clothing Store, Its An Experience… Find all the necessities listed in this article and much more at this fabulous new boutique.

www.waytoofab.com [http://www.waytoofab.com]

‘Mylah Lynn’ is a retired fashion model and stylist. She has helped hundreds of women find their inner fabulousness by opening a truly one of a kind boutique. She has written this and several other articles so that you too can be a Fierce & Fabulous.

The fall season for orchids is an important one. It is one where a great number of the orchid plants need care as well as the change in the basic requirements. Most orchids use this season as a “rest period” to get ready to produce blooms in the winter or spring.

From the summer season to the fall there is a less a requirement for water as the temperature decreases. You will need to monitor this closely. Don’t forget it you see wrinkling on the leaves this means that you need more H2O.

As a general rule this time of the year requires the use of an orchid fertilizer richer in phosphorous is needed to boost the bloom potential. This means that there is higher percentage in nitrogen-phosphorous-potassium in the fertilizer mixture. As you use fertilizer on the orchid plants use it as half strength and generally once a week.

I like to fertilizer after I have watered the plant. Once again be sure that you allow the water and fertilizer to run out of the pot. Leaving water and fertilizer in the pot allows root rot to destroy the orchid - very quickly.

The temperature is also getting cooler in most parts of the country during the fall. So if you have plants outdoors you may start to think about getting them indoors. Most orchids can do well in with temps in the 50’s and few do ok into the forties. I like to suggest that your plants come inside when the night temps are in the mid fifties.

Now let’s get to some specifics for some of the different genera. For cattleyas there growth rate will tend to slow as the fall progresses. The sheaths on the catts will show some changes indicative of blooming over the next six months. Don’t forget the fertilizer and watering. These plants do well in bright lighting.

Also, if you are bringing your orchid indoors from being outside check carefully for any pests that may be clinging to the plant.

Cymbidiums may start blooming in the fall and they need to be in shaded cool areas. Cyms have a genetically based warmth tolerance but for the best blooms they need an area that is shaded and somewhat cooler. The spikes with the flowers, called inflorescence, needs to be staked to prevent the heavy flowers from weighting down the spike.

Phalaenopsis are just starting to go through the next stage to ready for blooms in the late winter and spring. They need the cool difference in daytime and nighttime temps. It is recommended that there be about a 10 - 15 degree Fahrenheit difference.

Phalaenopsis also need to be watered and fertilized less often during this first few months of fall. They are resting. It would helpful to give them a fertilizer with a higher phosphorous percentage to help boost the blossom potential. This fertilizer is also called “blossom booster”.

Dendrobiums also need a “blossom booster” as well at this time of the year. Remember their flowers are usually plentiful and grow toward the top of the spike making them top heavy. Use a stake to help hold them erect and be sure that the pot is heavy enough to keep itself upright.

The green leaved Paphs are also getting ready to have flowers. The shafts are displaying the spikes. Be careful with these orchids as a sudden heat spell will prove disasterous to the new blooms. Keep them in a cooler area and with good air circulation.

Paphs don’t like to get dry so be careful with watering. If you were watering twice a week try cutting down to once. But while doing this test your medium with the dry tip of a pencil. Stick it down about an inch or two into the pot, if the tip comes out wet your fine.

This should help you to have great orchids both in the fall season and beyond.

Get the Guide to Growing Great Orchids, Mastering Orchids, a 70 page guide for half price ($9.95) Just subscribe to our monthly free orchid newsletter, Orchidaceae.
http://www.orchids-plus-more.com/orchid-newsletter.html

When storing your split firewood for the season it is important to cover the wood. Keep the rain and snow out of your wood pile. When you store your firewood make sure it is off the ground. Seasoned firewood will absorb ground water not allowing to to stay dry. Never burn wet or unseasoned firewood. A good way to tell if the wood is seasoned is the weight, the lighter the wood the less water content.

List of reasons not to burn wet or unseasoned firewood

1) The wood is harder to light.

2) Wet wood creates more smoke; the smoke from a fire is the moisture steaming from the wood.

3) Excessive smoke in the chimney can cause back drafts of smoke into your home.

4) It takes all the heat from the fire to cook the moisture out. Leaving less heat for your home.

When covering your firewood the best covers to use are breathable. A high quality cover uses a waterproof material that keeps moisture out yet allows the wood to breath. Many professional recommend covering the top few layers of the wood. This would allow air to circulate around the wood allowing it to season. During the fall and winter months use a full cover to keep the seasoned wood dry.

Find a location that is away from your home, garage or any other buildings. Keeping the log rack out in the open will allow air to circulate around the firewood keeping it dry. Storing your firewood away from any buildings also keeps unwanted insects and rodents at bay.

Chimney Maintenance

Guide to Wood Burning

Firewood Rating Guide

More Info on Child Safety Screens