When You Shop, Pick Up Extras While you are at the supermarket, toss in extra toilet paper, cans of beans, tuna fish and other basic supplies that you might need in an emergency. Keep them in one specific area so you know that you have these supplies in a pinch. This is also a good way to donate food supplies to a local food bank or charity. Textured Ceilings

There are a number of textured ceilings, from minimal drywall mud textures to "popcorn" types that have a more pronounced texture. Most textured ceilings are easily painted, but the popcorn texture might take a little extra effort.

If your popcorn has never been painted, it may be fragile, so work carefully. Again, cleaning is one of the first steps in your paint prepping. If your popcorn ceiling needs to be cleaned, try vacuuming it. After cleaning, seal the popcorn by carefully painting it with a long-nap roller or spraying on a stain sealing primer. Now your ceiling can be painted in the usual fashion.

- Stephen Corwin

-- Anonymous, September 27, 2001