There's no need to feed this koi, it's a toy
Whether you have a backyard pond or not, you can still enjoy a few koi this summer. We've found a product, aptly called Koi Toy, that retails for around $10. It's a life-size rubber koi that floats on top of water, being sold as a bath or water toy. It also lights up - and changes color - as long as it's floating in water. Which of course makes it great for a backyard party. You can buy just a few, and float them in punch bowls, fountains or bird baths. Or, a few wide-mouth goldfish bowls, each with its own koi, dotted around the deck will give a nice party atmosphere. Who needs tiki torches?
The non-replaceable battery lasts about 40 hours.
Made by Fred and Friends (worldwidefred.com), the Koi Toy can be purchased online through dealers like amazon.com and perpetualkid.com.
It's getting easier to be green
Some good news from Better Homes and Gardens. According to its nationwide survey of 3,600 people, 87 percent of us plan to be more green this summer.
That's good news for the planet and even better news for your bank account, as many "green" practices also save money.
Most respondents are doing things like setting the thermostat higher, whether they're at home or not, and closing curtains during the day. In the garden most said they would water their lawn less often and incorporate drought-tolerant plants in their landscape design. About 40 percent said they have or will install a rain barrel.
Inside the house, half said they already use eco-friendly cleaning products, but an impressive 32 percent said they will start using greener products this summer. Also 30-some percent have said they plan to start shopping locally this summer and buy products with eco-friendly packaging.
Here's how to treat your guests right
Whether you're looking for a stylish sleeper for overnight guests, or just a piece with flexibility for your own lounging pleasure, Hollandia International has several options, including The Versant.
It has four adjustable sections allowing movement from a sitting position, to a lounging one, to a sleeping one. Or, a combination. It's all powered by two motors.
It retails for $8,000 but also includes two massage systems including a built-in shoulder zone (good news for side sleepers).
Check them out at HollandiaInternational.com or call (888) 432-BEDS.
- Kay Long