By ROSEMARY SADEZ FRIEDMANN, Scripps Howard News Service

Power. That's a powerful word. We use power to power just about everything --from our buildings to our cell phones and it is expensive. What if I told you there is something out there that converts light into energy and can be integrated into any device, system or structure that is exposed to light? OK, I'm telling you there is and it is called Power Plastic.

Have you ever heard of the Great Depression? Of course. Who hasn't? Did you know that at that time, when the going was tough, and nobody had money to buy fancy things, the furniture and design industry had to do something to stay alive?

Doors have various functions. They create a transition from one room to another, maintain privacy and give interest to an otherwise boring or plain wall.
Let's talk about adding interest, and let's start with the door frame.

Scientists have studied the effect of color on our mood, health and way of thinking for many years. Our preference of one color over another may have something to do with the way color makes us feel.
Light is absorbed by the eye and converted into another form of energy, which enables us to see color. This energy affects and is felt even by people without sight.

Can't find the right colors and patterns for your bedroom sheets, blankets and window treatments? No problem. Buy solid-color sheets, blankets and treatments, and stencil your way to coordination.

"Shall we dine?" "Dinner is served." "Your table is waiting."
Sounds elegant, doesn't it?
"Come and get it." "Let's eat." "Chow time."

Scientists have studied the effect of color on our mood, health and way of thinking for many years. Our preference for one color over another may have something to do with the way color makes us feel.
Light is absorbed by the eye and converted into another form of energy, which enables us to see color.

Old bathrooms have charm. If you live in or are considering buying an older home, look hard and close before deciding to remodel. Though some sprucing up might be necessary, conserving the gracious look originally intended when built might be the best way to go.

Carpet stains are really bad. If you could get rid of them you'd be glad. And the stinky scent ... serves to tell ... that man's best friend went.
OK, so poetry isn't something I'm very good at. But I am good at seeking out products that are good for your home and also healthy for your personal environment.

An original van Gogh or Rembrandt would certainly be nice to own, but few of us can afford it. Good-quality art, however, is available and affordable in the form of original prints.