Fix Your Eyeglasses With Household Items

Sometimes when you buy new glasses or if you order glasses online, the frames are not the proper shape. Over time, your glasses may become warped or a screw may come loose. It's a hassle to march into your eye doctor's office every time something slips, bends, or becomes misaligned. No one really wants to spend that kind of time to have someone potentially fix your frames unless you really need it! Beside, what if you've been holding off on getting new glasses? Then you have to deal with the pressure of an optician telling you it's time for an exam only to be told you can wear the same prescription. While some issues, like breakage, warrant an immediate trip to the eye doctor, others do not. Here is a short guide on how to do simple fixes from home with household items.

First and foremost, if your glasses break in any way, shape, or form - go to the eye doctor's office to get them fixed. Your eyeglasses are of no use to you if you can not see properly out of them. This includes any scratches or nicks that come across your lenses.

For normal cleaning, you do not need expensive sprays. In fact, you should not be using chemicals at all on your lenses! That means no expensive window cleaners, no sprays that state they clean your lenses, TV, and computer screen, and no all purposes cleansers! What can you use? Vinegar and water! Nothing more, nothing less. For a quick clean, mix three parts water to one part vinegar in a spray bottle. Gently mix the two, and then lightly spray your glasses. Using a microfiber cloth, wipe off any smudges, dust particles, and grime. It's just that easy.

What about your frames? Even the most expensive set of eyeglasses frames can have a few issues. One such issue lies in loose screws. If your temples feel a little loose, just take a small flat-head or diamond-head screwdriver and gently tighten the screw while the glasses are in an open position. Once you try closing the stems, you'll start to feel the hinge tighten. If the screw is too tight, it may cause the stem to break, so loosen it just a smidge. If you notice the screw becoming loose again, repeat the process but place a dab of clear nail polish on the screw before tightening. The polish will act as a glue without damaging your frames.

What if your frames feel out of shape as a whole? Metal frames are easier to bend and shape into place than plastic frames. If the frames are slightly misaligned, run the frame under warm water and gently bend back into place. If your frames are bent dramatically out of place, ask your optician to fix them. You can also adjust the temples using the same method with hot water but be careful! If you straighten the temples too much, you will risk breaking them if they fall off your face.

There you have it! Three easy household fixes for some common prescription eyeglass problems! Remember, some problems require immediate attention, while others are easily fixed at home. Worse comes to worse, you can always replace your frames and buy glasses online for less than the doctor may charge you for broken frames.

Choosing a Stylish Garage Door

Garage door styles are not likely to be a hot topic of conversation, but with so many to choose from today, they could well be! If you have decided to purchase a new garage door, suddenly you take notice of every door you see! You may be quite surprised at the variety of styles and materials to be had!

Take a good look at your house. Does it have arches and curves, or is it boxy and straight-lined? Match the garage door to the home! If your home features wood trim or panels, a matching garage door would be an excellent choice. A carriage style door, with its graceful curves looks terrific on a home with curved windows. A Spanish villa style house will look fabulous with a new rustic looking garage door! A modern, contemporary styled home begs for a sleek look, incorporating more glass or wide horizontal panels as opposed to boxier square panels. Garage doors come in a plethora of styles; Colonial, Tudor, Mediterranean, Country, Spanish, and many others.

Panels come in horizontal, vertical and even chevron angles. Panel styles are available in Georgian, which are the raised square panels, Tudor and Winsor, which have sloping curved tops to each panel, and Stuart, which have horizontal panels, in Craftsman or Mission style.

Before putting up your money, spend a little time doing due diligence before you buy! Choose carefully and you can have an attractive and functional entrance to your car's domain! Drive around your neighborhood to get a good idea of ​​what fits, and what looks best. Search online for comparison pictures. Keep in mind that a street-facing garage makes up of about a third of your home's visible appearance, making the garage door design a matter of importance!

Garage doors, like most things, come in a variety of price ranges, beauty and quality. Stock garage doors come with the lowest price tag. If you're looking for a functional door without hitting your budget, you can find an attractive door that will fit your needs amongst stock doors. Stock doors are especially smart when the door is not facing a street or on a little used garage.

Semi-custom doors are the next level, and make up the vast majority of garage door sales. Semi-custom doors allow the home owner to choose materials, colors, and windows based on set styles and materials. The number and shape of panels, materials, insulation or not, and hardware can be selected to form a near custom garage door for less than the cost of a custom door.

Custom doors are the most expensive garage doors. These are the doors that are designed to the home owner's specifications, and can be built to fit odd shaped or custom garages. Typically these doors are made of high quality hardwoods, and incorporated lots of architectural interest.

Get online and visit garage door manufacturers - many of the larger companies offer images that allow you to see what homes similar to yours would look like with a variety of different door designs.

How to Improve the MPG Or Your Jeep Cherokee SUV

While SUVs get a bad rap in the press these days about being not very fuel efficient, the Jeep Cherokee XJ is capable of getting quite good fuel economy. It may not match a Prius or a Civic but I would not try to take one of them off road either.

The first step in improving the fuel economy of the jeep is to make sure it is operating correctly. Ensure that all connections to the ECU are clean and properly connected. Also check all the ground wires.

There are at least three different computers used in the XJ series of Jeep Cherokees. The Jeeps made by AMC used the Renix computer system. This system uses a few more inputs than the later Mopar system and in some ways is more complex. The Renix system uses a knock sensor and is there before capable of tuning the spark advance curve to an optimum mix. Some Renix controlled engines like the one in my son's XJ Wagoneeer will actually get better fuel economy using higher octane fuel. The fuel economy increase is enough to more than offset the extra cost of the higher octane fuel. You will have to experiment with your own engine to see if higher octane fuel will give better fuel economy and higher MPG. For most engines, the 87 octane fuel will give the best fuel economy.

Also, note that there is a huge difference in fuel qualities from various distributors. Ethanol content lowers MPG as well as many other additives. Again you will have to experiment with fuel form various distributors in your area to see which one offers the best fuel for the highest MPG. In my area it is the Shell station that offers the best fuel economy when comparing fuel cost to MPG.

The ignition timing of the XJ Cherokee is not adjustable. The ECU controls these functions on a set table and feedback from the knock sensor if equipped. However it is possible to trick the ECU into advancing the timing by adjusting the mounting points of the Crank Shaft Position sensor. By simply sloting the holes, the sensor can be repositioned to adjust the actual ignition timing. Due to the extreme difficulty of accessing he mounting bolts of the CPS and the minor improvement in fuel economy, this modification made not be worth the effort. Adjustable CPS sensors are available from some Jeep accessory vendors.

One of the largest factors that effects the MPG of a Jeep Cherokee is it transmission. While the Asin four speed automatic is very durable and features a lock up torque converter, it simply can not match the fuel economy of the five speed manual transmission. If you are choosing a Jeep for fuel economy, choose one with a five speed manual transmission.

Also, note that if you have a 242 transfer case also know as selec trac, you have the option of full time four wheel drive. Do not use it without the road is slippery. You will get the best MPG by using two wheel drive.

While a disconnect front axle was offered on some Cherokees, on many XJs the front drive shaft is always coupled to the drive axle. On the non disconnect axle vehicles, you can improve the fuel economy by removing the front drive shaft. Just remember that you will have to put it back before you can use four wheel drive.

Tires make a big effect on MPG. While fitting a Jeep with larger tires is common, there can be a huge negative effect on fuel economy. Larger tires are usually wider and have a more aggressive tread pattern than the smaller street tires that originally came on the XJ. Using a set of narrow, low rolling resistance tires can help MPG in street driving. On one Jeep Cherokee I own there was a noticeable increase in fuel economy when I temporarily fitted a set of OEM sized tires. For best fuel economy, you may wish to consider having a set of street tires and set of off road tires.

No matter what tires you run, you will need to pay close attention the tire pressure. Generally speaking, the higher the tire pressure, the better the fuel economy. You will have to adjust the air pressure in your Jeep by balancing the factors of tire wear, ride comfort and Traction. Always keep your tires properly inflated and air back up before driving on pavement after your off road adventures.

Another big factor for MPG is wind drag. Even the factory roof rack makes a noticeable difference in fuel economy. To maximize fuel economy, remove and roof racks or other roof mounted accessories.

When lifting a Cherokee, it is common to remove the factory air dam. However, this little piece of rubber does improve fuel economy. Keep it in place and straight for best MPG. Also the rubber mat under the engine helps to improve air flow under the XJ for a slight improvement in fuel economy.

Another common modification that reduces fuel economy is armor and protection accessories. Your bumper guards and skid plates and rock trails add weight and in some cases disturb the air flow. Consider the effects on fuel economy when making these modifications.

Proper wheel alignment will increase MPG as well. The front tires need to be pointed as close to straight ahead as possible. Set the toe in as close to zero as possible. The inverted Y steering arrangement of the XJ causes the toe to change with ride height so to maximize the fuel economy, set the toe with the Jeep loaded as you normally drive it.

Possibly the largest single factor effecting fuel economy is your driving style. To maximize MPG, start off slowly and maintain a steady speed. Avoid unnecessary stops. Keep moving as much as possible even at a very slow speed in stop and go traffic. Try to anticipate hills and accelerate before gong up the hill. Let you speed drop naturally hill climbing the hill. Avoid long idle times especially with the AC on.

One questionable area of ​​increasing fuel economy that I have had mixed results with is fuel additives. Many people have reported that adding a small amount of acetone to the fuel will increase the MPG. I have not noticed any measurable increase from adding acetone. However, occasional use seems to prevent stumble and misfires so it seems that it would increase MPG. Try it by adding one ounce of pure acetone for each ten gallons of fuel.

Another additive that seems to help cure fuel supply problems is Seafoam. Seafoam smells like an alcohol blend and probably helps mostly to remove moisture from the fuel system. However, I have found a variety of fuel related issues form clogged or sticking injectors to carbon fouling of the combustion chambers seems to be helped by adding a can of Seafoam to the gas tank.

Oil choice and oil additives can also be used to increase MPG. However the long term effects on the engine need to be considered when choosing oil. Using lower viscosity oil can help increase MPG. However older engines may not lubricate well on low viscosity oils. An additive like Friction Free 3000 has been shown to increase MPG by reducing internal friction in the engine. Give it a try in you engine to see how it works for you.

Always use high quality oil in your Jeep Engine. The design of the 4.0 block causes some parts of the block to be very hot and will cause wax or paraffin based oils to separate. Wax based oils will need to be changed more frequently due to thermal breakdown.

Keeping your Jeep well lubricated in other areas will also help boost MPG. Check differential fluids, transfer case fluid and the transmission fluid on a regular basis to maintain proper lubrication and reduce drag. Locker and limited slip differentials may need to be check more frequently tan the factory recommended intervals. Also, if there is any chance that water has entered these parts due to off road adventures, change the fluid as the water and grease mixture has poor lubricating quality.

Through proper maintenance and a being aware of the effects of common modifications, you can maintain reasonable fuel economy in your Jeep SUV. Higher gas prices do not have to mean the end of your four wheel fun. It may even make some configurations like a second set of tires more economically viable. So pay attention to details and enjoy driving your Jeep Cherokee.

Protect Your Vehicle With Secure Garage Doors

Do you feel apprehensive every night when you park your car in your garage thinking that something might happen to it? Then improve the security, so that you can have a good night sleep and not worry about the safety of your vehicle. Perhaps installing electric or automatic garage doors would be the right thing for you to do. These automatic doors have many benefits and advantages that you can avail.

Moreover, some of the models now come with automatic closing function, which makes the doors close as soon as you leave in case it slips out of your mind. This increases the security as it advances anyone entering in your garage. To have a feature as automatic closing, it can be very beneficial for you. However, do not invest your money in some fiberglass or aluminum door instead go for steel or solid wood to ensure greater safety and security. If you are considering of making a purchase then you should go for the up and over garage doors.

There are many designs available in the market, which are automatic. The more popular being the sliding and the roller version. Many of the doors come with motors and you do not have to use your hands when lowering or raising it. These motorized doors will be operated with the help of a remote, which makes it easier for you to handle. These doors are very reliable and it comes at a cheap rate. Anybody can handle these doors and operating them is very easy.

When purchasing these garage doors there are certain things that you must consider. Purchasing these doors is an essential investment and you should get value for money. So you are required to choose doors that are in coordination with the paint of the house. It should also match the features of your house. A mismatched door can ruin the entire aesthetic appeal of your house since you need to be careful when making your purchase. You will find that the providers offer various types of customized doors for your garage.

If you are in search of these automatic gates in the market then choose something, which flaunts your personal style. Increase the value of your home and install these secure and electronic doors today. Many installation providers can assist you during the installation process. Here, you will not have to worry about getting your doors installed. You can get it done as quickly as possible. Beside your vehicle, there are other valuable items in your garage, which you need to keep safely. Here, keeping these needs in mind many security providers have come up with hi-tech mechanisms that verifies anyone enters the garage. This will always ensure that others can not enter the garage without your knowledge.

Now you will not have to keep a constant check on your car if you have installed hi-tech and modern doors for your garage. If you still have not, then check the Internet to find a host of providers offering you the same at an affordable price.

Emergency Garage Door Repair Services

Do not underestimate the importance of an operating garage door - that is why you will most likely need to contact a garage door repair service as soon as possible when your garage is not working as expected. After all, garages are also entrances to our homes and at the same time they make up half of the house's structure.

Every time a garage breaks down, it is important that homeowners recognize the importance of garage door repairs. Garage door repairs should not be chosen haphazardly. Locating a company that offers a garage service is actually easy- the tricky thing is selecting one that can provide you with the best professional service. After all, not everyone can do the repair.

The best source to find garage door repair companies and also reviews about their craft is by browsing on the internet. You will find all of the contact information you need as well as reviews from customers. If you do not have the internet, the phone book is one way to get by. You will see that some local garage repair companies do not have websites to market their services but have cheaper costs instead.

When selecting the right company for you, you may want to check out the company's size and manpower. This can also include the company's ability to do round the clock emergency checks - this is important especially since unexpected situations can arise. If your door will need a lot of work, you might want to consider package deals or tune ups.

When shopping for repair service, check if the company also sends technicians and a service truck. You may not have the adequate tools in your shed and this will also help avoid further delays. Also, take in to consideration the knowledge of the technician. You should look for businesses that have certified technicians. The technicians should also have the experience required to properly repair a garage.

Choosing a licensed and insured garage door repair service will be a sensible choice. This will give you quick and good repairs as well as great workmanship. You also want to make sure the company provides a warranty on their repairs and parts. This will make sure that your fixes are covered. If your garage fails a short time after the repair, the company will come back and fix it at no cost; or if they replace your damaged garage door part with another damaged part, they will bring you a new part and replace the damaged one at no cost.

Logistics Software is the Ultimate Transportation Management Program

It's difficult to think of an area of ​​business that has not benefited from SaaS offerings. And if you own a manufacturing company or plan on starting one, you may be familiar with truckload transportation management software, a form of logistics software that is available on both a SaaS model and as an internal software solution. The value of logistics software is typically discussed in relation to third party logistics (3PL), with its main benefits being that it offers logistics solutions at a significantly lower price than 3PL while offering more shipping options.

Logistics software offers the same logistics expertise as 3PL providers for a lower price because it's priced as a software service and not as a logistics consulting service. It offers a broader range of shipping solutions because it does not act as a business entity that prefers its own shipping solutions or the solutions of its associates. But there are also other benefits of using logistics software instead of 3PL; Below, we take a look at three reasons why logistics software is the ultimate transportation management program.

Companies Can Become Their Own Logistics Providers

When shipping companies get large enough, they usually purchase their own flight fleet and hire a team of logistics professionals to oversee it. But for small to midsize shipping companies, the financial necessity of outsourcing logistics means that they have to maintain a relationship with a 3PL that 3PL clients regularly characterize as being distant and disconnected, and it's easy to see why. If you are not a logistics expert, it's difficult to maintain a business dialogue within someone who is. But logistics software effectively places the power of the logistics function in the hands of shipping companies by providing an easy to use customer interface, making it an ideal transportation management program.

Companies Receive a Comprehensive Logistical Approach

There are four types of 3PL providers: standard 3PL providers, service developers, customer adapters and customer developers. But only customer developers offer a comprehensive approach that results in new shipping solutions. The problem? Cost wise, hiring a customer developer is essentially like hiring your own team of logistics professionals. And if you can not afford that, then hiring a customer developer is a bad decision as well. Companies hire standard 3PL providers and service developers when they have a specific need, but not when they when they want the best systematic shipping process; and customer adapters are rented by companies that simply want their shipping process "managed".

Companies can Significantly Reduce their Annual Shipping Costs

Research shows that companies that implement logistics software can reduce their annual shipping costs by 10 percent at the end of the first year. With the aid of logistics software, shippers typically pay more than they need to in freight transport and a variety other costs commonly associated with the shipping process, including but not limited to: TMS software costs, annual software maintenance costs, gain shares, freight margins and common rate based licensing costs.

Gift Ideas For a 5th Wedding Anniversary

Are you having difficulty thinking of a special gift idea for a 5th Wedding Anniversary? The traditional gift for a 5th Wedding Anniversary is made of wood. Although there are plenty of wooden products available it is often difficult to find one which is personalized and will last for many years. Kitchen or general furniture will be thrown out or moved on over time and, with any anniversary present, it is a good idea to buy something that will move house with the couple and not wear out.

A beautifully crafted bespoke large real oak wooden keepsake or memory box where the couple can store all those special memories of their life together is both thoughtful and useful. If a couple have reached their fifth wedding anniversary there is a good chance they will already have a number of mementos of their time together and with a large oak box they will have the space to add many more over the years.

Oak is an extremely hard and durable wood and will last for many years. As oak furniture is a very popular choice for the home a beautifully crafted wooden box will not look out of place and will compliment any decor.

To make that anniversary gift even more special you could have the box personalized with a name or names engraved on a wooden plaque.

What to store in an Oak Keepsake or Memory 5th Anniversary Box. There are so many possibilities including important documents for example: passports, birth certificates etc. or those special photographs and reminders of the wonderful times within the marriage. Perhaps, if the couple did not have a wedding keepsake box when they were married they could store those mementos of their special day. Interesting Newspaper cuttings, family bible, in fact any information or items that they can pass on as a family heirloom to their children and their childrens children.

Do not just put all these memories in the loft or garage, store them safely and on show so that they can regularly reminisce in the future.

Although this is only a single idea for the perfect gift for a 5th Wedding Anniversary, as gift ideas go it is probably the most appropriate and a gift that is best given rather than purchased for yourself making it very personal and special.