| Ben Thompson (36)

1. Spyder Scraper ($13) - this blade turns a reciprocating saw into a power scraper

Ask yourself these questions before buying any tool:

For a lot of us it just seems silly to heat water all day long in a big tank to dose it out just at the beginning and end of the day. On first glance it just makes more sense to use an on-demand water heater. Here is a brief checklist of some of the hurdles many of our clients have been struggling with over the last 5+ years and honestly it keeps coming back to installed cost and their expectations of "unending hot water." My experience - I have a conventional water heater in my home. I wish I had an on-demand water heater but it doesn't quite make sense in my home. I first stayed in a house using on-demand water heating in Japan a few years ago and loved it!

I am so happy to be experiencing a culture shift in my client base. The Jones family no longer has the influence over their neighbors as they used to...in fact, I'll argue that they have left the neighborhood. Envy is at an all time low. Conspicuous Consumption is underground.

Here is the transcript of an interview Kristin did with Better Homes & Gardens in November 2010 regarding our two bathrooms in our home. Publish date scheduled early 2011.

Alpha Women's Center is a local pregnancy care center that serves young parents and their children. Help Alpha distribute warm coats to some of the neediest women, men, and children in the Grand Rapids area.

Care: The best way to prolong your carpet’s life is to vacuum regularly, as it prevents dirt from being embedded. Use scissors to clip snags do not pull at them. Professional cleaning is recommended every 18 to 24 months. Always pre-test a hidden area before using a cleaner to remove a stain. Never saturate carpet with liquid.

Natural Tile (slate, marble, travertine, etc.)

Care: Due to the fact that wood is a natural, soft material, a wood floor will eventually scratch-there is no way around this! However preventative care can minimize this. Use throw and area rugs. Remove shoes before entering the area. Avoid wearing high heels, which can leave divets. Use furniture pads. Daily sweeping to remove dirt is one of the best ways to keep your floor looking its best. A humidifier in the winter can help prevent shrinkage.

Care: Wipe up any water or liquid as soon as possible. Do not slide objects across finished wood to avoid scratching. Do not leave newspapers or other printed materials on finished wood-inks can bleed into finish. Always use coasters or hot pads on wood surfaces.

Care: Laminate is not heat or stain resistant. It is recommended to clean up spills as soon as possible. Always use a cutting board and trivets for hot items.