There are a good number of indoor bonsai trees that are good for beginners. Many of these trees are described as durable or hardy, but few are called nearly indestructible. That is, however, a term applied to the Chinese Privet, or the Ligustrum sinense. For a beginner, this is a great tree. It will grow up to two foot tall, making it look quite impressive, and its trunk does have a tendency to twist and turn. During the spring, the Chinese Privet grows small, white flowers that are quite lovely and fragrant. (more…)

One of the most interesting bonsai out there is the Japanese Green Maple Bonsai. It’s a great outdoor bonsai tree for any collection, although its cost may make it prohibitive for all but the most experienced bonsai collector and enthusiast. One of the reasons the Japanese Green Maple Bonsai is so unique is that it can get quite tall, standing over two or even three feet high. Some look almost like miniature full sized trees instead of bonsai trees, making this bonsai an attention grabber. While it may not be the best housewarming or wedding gift for a novice bonsai grower, if you know someone who has grown bonsai for years and doesn’t have a Japanese Green Maple in his or her collection, it can be the perfect gift. (more…)

Hanwei’s Bastard sword accurately resembles the classic German or Swiss swords that became widely used weapons during the Dark Age era of Europe. The reason why it was called a bastard sword is based on the fact that the sword can actually be wielded either with one or both hands, making it impossible to strictly place this weapon into either class. (more…)

Running a busy household takes time and money, and last spring I realized we were spending a very large sum of money each month on bottled water.  Although I have no problem drinking water directly from the tap, my husband and sons were brainwashed to believe bottled water is better than what you can get out of the faucet.  However, after gauging how many cases we were going through each month, I did some research and suggested getting a countertop water filter to help bring down the household expenses.  I estimated that buying one of these units would pay for itself within a few short months. (more…)

If you don’t find that to be a really exciting concept in the spring, you’re either a man or you don’t live in a climate where you’re hermetically sealed in a dry box of recycled air for at least five months every year. I was walking past an open window this morning and was attracted by a sound that I haven’t heard in months. There were birds outside, calling to each other. Actually, I recognize this one and it’s a cardinal. They’re easy to spot with their brilliant scarlet color and propensity to head for the highest local vantage point available. I think its time for me to bring my blue enameled Birdbath back into the yard. Oh happy day. (more…)

I don’t often take the time in my busy day to sit and sip a cup of coffee, so when I do grab a few minutes for myself, I want the coffee to be really special. That’s why I keep my container of French Vanilla Cafe mix front and center in my kitchen. By keeping a tin of this rich and creamy coffee mix ready, it only takes a moment to stir and enjoy. Since I’ve discovered how smooth and yummy this coffee is, I’ve been looking for excuses to indulge more often than I want to admit! Give this mix a try and you’ll quickly become a fan. It’s like taking a little mini vacation to France anytime you taste it. (more…)

Are you looking for a quality cutting sword? Here’s a very economical sword, The Practical Plus Katana. This sword was made by Paul Chen, a sword collector who now operates Hanwei, a sword manufacturing company, so you would know immediately how much good quality you’re getting out of this particular sword. (more…)