Futon Blog

Thoughts on Tempur-Pedics

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 17:36:00 +0000

In my many years in the furniture business I've run into the gigantor known as Tempur-pedic many a time. In my own first hand opinion as well as customer accounts there are a few pros and cons that go along with the Tempur style mattress.

The Pros:
One of my favorite policies enforced by the Tempurpedic Mattress company was the price control. I loved the fact that retailers weren't allowed to cut each others throats over a couple dollars (ie. no one was allowed to advertise under the suggested retail). Any retailer caught doing so was in jepardy of losing their contract with Tempur-Pedic, a fact my old employer used when he called to rat on other retailers who were having sales.

So, no matter where you look, from sites like Bragada Mattress (a very nice site with some great incentives to do business with) to any mega store you should find the mattress listed at the same price. But, as I just said, retailers are allowed to give other incentives to make the sale so stay sharp.

Comfort was also another things I've heard good feed back on. Quite a few people really like their Tempurpedic mattress, though there are always exceptions to the rule.

The Cons:

The one complaint I've heard about Tempur-Pedic Mattresses is that they have a tendency to offgas. This is really not unheard of in the high density foam mattress world, foam is made from chemicals. And, this is one situation I have run into personally, but, I'm also of the opinion that the mattress will offgas fast. After that you're in the clear, so air out the mattress first or you may regret it.

Badger Village Blacksmithing

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 17:33:00 +0000

As you can see from the image above, Steve Hackbarth of Badger Village Blacksmithing is incredibly talented. The leaf above is actually one piece of a larger project involving six different leaf arrangements on a railing. Steve has been working at the forge for 25 years and offers complete custom design services, creating unique heirloom quality artistic metal work. If you're interested in his portfolio, visit Badger Village for more info.

How many of you are fit? In credit that is...

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 20:32:00 +0000

So, today I caught myself thinking about my financial security in uncertain times and how I could gauge my financial standing. That's when I visited a site called BillsIQ, and took an interactive survey that gauged my financial security based on how I answered the questionnaire. Don't worry, you won't have to provide any personal information (social security number, name, address, etc.) to participate, but, you do have answer honestly while you participate. False answers about Credit card debt, mortgage, budgets, retirement funds, and overall financial planing may make you feel good when you get a great score, but won't help you make any decisions when it comes to your financial future.

The Verdict:

After taking the test at BillsIQ I was given a score of eighty-six percent, which isn't too bad. I felt pretty good after taking it and was reassured in what I am actively doing now to secure my future. By taking actions like investing, paying off my credit cards every month, thinking about life insurance, and having a small nest egg stored away for times when cash flow is tight. So, head over and take the test to see how financially fit you are. You might be surprised!

-Enjoy

Matera Bed

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 20:23:00 +0000

The Matera Bed with built in storage looks, well, amazing. The six full-extension drawers open by pulling from underneath, and each drawer in the Collection has self / soft-closing vacuum glides that refuse to slam shut. Solid ash bed slats were increased in number from the traditional 15 to a more stable 20, rendering a box spring unnecessary. Quite a bed!

-Enjoy

Has your computer got you down?

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 18:56:00 +0000

If it has, then you might need a little computer technical support from the pros over at FastTeks. Their highly trained staff provide professional, service at great rates in the comfort and convenience of your location. You won't need to travel for this fix and with todays gas prices that can be a blessing.

Check them out.

Metal Tree Bed

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 18:55:00 +0000

After Noelle turned me on to the metal work of Shawn Lovell, I knew I had to share it with the rest of you. The tree bed above is fantastic. Having been involved in blacksmithing, I can see the time and effort that went into this amazing piece. Check out the whole portfolio at the above link.

-Enjoy

Stem Cell Innovations 2.0

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 13:26:00 +0000

I wanted to follow up on a Stem Cell post I did last week. By this time almost everyone has heard the the debate about stem cell research and how this research is undertaken. The fact that stem cell research is usually accompanied by a loss of life is one of this revolutionary technologies prominent detractors. When I read a post over at
CNNmoney.com I was definitely impressed. The C'elle system is a great program that allows any woman to preserve their own stem cells for potential use against many diseases that may occur in the future. Along with cord blood banking, With C’elle’s non-invasive collection process, cells are processed and cryo-preserved (stored at a very low temperature) for potential cellular therapies that may be used in the future. These self-renewing cells one day may even be used for sports medicine or cosmeceutical treatments, such as anti-aging therapies. C'elle is dedicated to finding more solutions to preserve stem cells in a noncontroversial way.

Sounds interesting, imagine life saving technology that doesn't include the destruction of life as it's first step. Check out the C'elle Client Testimonial page for details. Now is the time to plan for the health of your children.

Ever want a 3D magazine?

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 20:57:00 +0000

In the past I would have said yes, but ~~I don't have the skills to set one up~~ I have no idea how to go about setting a site with cool pageflip animation. I just found a tool called 3D Issue Manager that puts the shoe on the other foot and cuts out the service you used to need from those expensive programmers. Here's how it works:

3D Issue Manager is a windows based software solution that allows you to convert your magazines into a searchable digital magazine in a matter of minutes.

You can add hotspots, video, audio, drop-down menus, blogs, keyword searching, website & email buttons, archiving printing functionality without any programming. Using our easy- to-use application you simply drag and drop the options you want. It couldn't be any easier. All you need to do is save your content as a PDF and the 3D Issue Manager software's automatic PDF to flash magazine conversion does the rest. The end result is also search engine optimized, so you should get lots of love from Google, Yahoo, MSN and the rest.

Other features of the 3D Issue Manager are as follows: automatic PDF Bookmarks to contents menus, you can add video & audio files, automtaic URL & email detection as well as zooming.

If you;re at all interested in learning more, head over to the 3D Issue 30 free trial to get a more in depth look into the software, testimonials and to watch a nice video tutorial.

-Emjoy

There's a new tower in London

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 20:54:00 +0000

While the name of this project designed by 6a Architects, the Hairywood Tower, may seem a bit perverse, it’s actually inspired by Les Vacances Des Monsieur Hulot by Jacques Tati. Tati built a tower for the movie so its heroine could be filmed looking out the bay window overlooking the beach. Thus the sense of separate yet intimate, like being 20 feet above the bustle of London streets, was translated in the design of the Hairywood Tower.

Precast Construction - I Like It!

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 22:52:00 +0000

Ok first let's talk about Precast Concrete. Precast Concrete is a great concept that is used in quite a few manners including vaults, manholes, pull boxes, Hand holes, pads, enclosures, Precast Concrete Septic Tanks, grease interceptors, sand-oil interceptors, clarifiers, holding tanks, dosing tanks, pump & lift stations, pit liners & many others.

So, now that you know about a few of the ways in which precast concrete can be used, you might want to know what precast concrete is. Precast concrete is a type of construction material made with concrete cast in a reusable mold or "form" which is then cured in a controlled environment, transported to the construction site and lifted into place. This type of construction method dates back to the ancient Romans. In contrast, standard concrete is poured into large forms and cured on site. Precast stone is distinguished from precast concrete by using a fine aggregate in the mixture so the final product approaches the appearance of naturally occurring rock or stone. Precasting gives gives the builders more control over the final dimensions and appearance.

Check out Jensen Precast for additional info.

What is Creative Review

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 22:50:00 +0000

I’d like to share a link with everyone for a site / magazine called Creative Review. If you haven’t been to the site yet, never heard of Creative Review, or aren’t completely daft (words in the title) you might have figured out by this point in the post that Creative review looks at things that are, well, creative. Out of the box design, arts, and how they relate to (well) everything.

Check it all out.

-Enjoy

Social Media Resources

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 17:59:00 +0000

In my time blogging I've searched far and wide for social media marketing, and I have to say that IZEA is one of the more prolific tools available to me at this time. IZEA offers quite a few services at this time, blog posts, blog sponsorships and even product sampling are among their war chest. In my time interacting and blogging with IZEA I've generated thousands of dollars in income and provided a valuable service to countless advertisers. Well, maybe not countless, two to three hundred at least ;).

Most of that comes in the form of blog posts and reviews, so it's a win win situation. I get great content for my blog and the various companies get a nice plug. I've yet to branch out into the sponsored blog or product sampling yet. Those steps seem a bit more involved for the time that I have available at this time. But, I imagine that they can be just as lucrative and rewarding.

Anyhow, if you're looking to take advantage of your blog or website, check out the offerings IZEA has today. They definitely make it worth your while.

-Enjoy

Resources

Eco Friendly Sofa

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 17:56:00 +0000

Lee Furniture is one of the coolest, eco conscious furniture manufacturers I've seen in a while. Lee apparently strives to make furniture with a minimal eco foot print using renewable, recycled, and sustainable materials in the construction process. What isn't hyped up on Lee's website is the fact that they are transported in big diesel powered trucks, adding a bit to the environmental footprint. But that's unavoidable these days.

If you're in Western Mass, you can find Lee Furniture at Essentials in Northampton.

Stem Cell Innovations

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 14:18:00 +0000

While this post may be a bit out of character for the Futon Blog, I wanted to share a couple links with my readers about C'elle Stem Cell Research Innovation. The C'elle system is different from many controversial stem cell technologies due to it's ability to isolate stem cell tissues without causing a loss of life. The loss of life which has pro-lifers up in arms is now removed from the equation in the advancement of stem cell research.

The C'elle System is available to almost any woman, you can read other reviews at the C'elle Client Testimonial page for further info on the particulars.

Last Night...

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 14:01:00 +0000

...I worked at Sienna in South Deerfield. Sienna had a busy night, we had about fifty people come into the restaurant and I must say we put out some really nice looking food. It tasted pretty good as well ;)

All in all working in the kitchen again was an interesting change of pace.

Boat Safe This Summer!

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 16:45:00 +0000

So, I just read about a great educational campaign by the State of Arizona about Boating Operating Under the Influence, Arizona Boating. The State of Arizona set up a Boating Education Online website as well as produced the two informational commercials shown above. Whats also cool is the fact that Arizona is the first state to promote online in this manner. They really want you to be safe on their waterways.

Here's a press release from the State of Arizona:

Every Year in Arizona Alcohol is directly related to fatal boating accidents. 50% of all fatal boating accidents in Arizona were alcohol related in 2007 and 1/3 of all fatal boating accidents nationwide are alcohol related.

In 2007 Arizona watercraft law enforcement agencies arrested over 350 people who were operating watercraft under the influence (OUI) of alcohol.

Operating a boat while impaired is just as dangerous and just as illegal as drinking while driving a car. The legal limit for blood alcohol is .08 in both cases. The penalties are similar, too; like driving under the influence, operating a boat under the influence is a Class One misdemeanor. A sober operator should be designated.

However, unlike driving a car, boating safety education is not required to operate a boat in the state of Arizona. Educated boaters are 70 percent less likely to be involved in a boating accident. Classes are offered in Arizona statewide, or can be taken online at www.azgfd.gov/boating. In addition to learning about the effects of alcohol, a boating safety education course covers other need to know boating topics such as carbon monoxide poisoning, life jacket wear, required safety equipment, rules of navigation, and other boating safety laws and responsibilities.

Convert-A-Couch Sale!

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 16:36:00 +0000

Starting tomorrow, June 25th, all the Convert-a-couch frames at Goodnight Moon Futon will be on sale. That’s right, we’re taking $50 off the top of these great frames. So, if you’ve been looking for a deal on the Convert-a-Couch nows your chance.

-Enjoy

Looking for a wrist watch?

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 18:41:00 +0000

I think that if I was able to choose a wrist watch from The Watchery, it would haveto be the Ebel 1911 Discovery mens wrist watch pictured above. There's something about it that looks simple but at the same time gives a hi-tech feel. There's really only one problem, I don't have an extra two grand to drop on a watch.

Well, I should really make that two watches. You see, The Watchery is giving away a free watch with the purchase of select items on the site. It doesn't matter if you buy one of The Watchery's Movado watches or one of their gold watches as long as it's qualifies. Here's the deal via The Watchery:

We know our amazing prices are enough to excite you, but our current promotion will really blow you away. It's our biggest offer yet!

While our advertising dollars are well-spent, we're firm believers in the word-of-mouth. So, we’ve decided to cut down our spending on our advertising campaigns and pass on those dollars to you instead!

This one-of-a-kind promotion entitles you to a FREE or 80% off watch with selected purchases!

While browsing through our wide selection, you'll be pleasantly surprised to see the amazing variety of watches that are available for FREE or 80% off with each watch. Every watch brings a whole new world of possibilities!

To claim your free or 80% off watch, simply follow the instructions at checkout to include this offer.

Deals like this don't come around very often, so take advantage and claim your FREE watch (with purchase) today!

Sounds great right? If you answered no you obviously haven't been over to the site. I personally was blown away by the selection and spent quite sometime browsing through the site. Head on over and take a browse for yourself.

Turkish Coffee Set

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 18:24:00 +0000

I saw this amazing image over at Design Boom and thought I'd like to share it with my readers as well. The designer, Esli Alovi from Israel had this to say about this wonderful piece:

a modern interpretation for a turkish coffee set which still maintains its traditional values. the tray integrates everything required for the preparation of the coffee, from cooking to serving, all in the dining area. the materials used are copper and ceramic.

Creative Juices

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 16:07:00 +0000

Now not all of you would use the term "creative juices" to describe most rap music videos or Rap Lyrics but after spending a little time over at rapartists.com I was impressed. About several things. One it rap has the potential to be a great outlet and two, the availability of places for rap artists to promote their work online. Such as the latest videos section at rapartists.com. It was very intesting to see, so check it out.

Edward Wormley Desk

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 16:00:00 +0000

Wag Collectibles has a very interesting, very rare EDWARD WORMLEY desk on their site right now. And I just had to share when I saw how cool it was.

Via Wag:

EDWARD WORMLEY Mid Century Modern Desk for DREXEL 1958! Outstanding, very illusive, mid-century modern desk, designed by Edward Wormley for Drexel. Model No. K-80-41 with smoke (marbled gray) leatherette top, walnut wood. Produced in April 1958. Drexel burn stamp mark inside the drawer, tab code paper on the bottom and the model # style marks on the bottom of the drawer. Desk is 54" long, 33" wide, and 35-1/2" tall overall. 30" from the floor to the desktop. 4 drawers, one with movable pen/pencil tray, one with adjustable file storage rack, and one standard storage and the small one on the top left expands the writing surface. Step back with two sliding doors open to reveal storage area with cubby holes for letters, documents, and such. Desk is complete. It is in very good original condition with lite wear consistent with it's age and use. Some rubbing, minor scuffs, scratches. The unique metal handles have toning to their finishes. The gray leatherette covering looks great still, but close inspection shows a couple of tiny pin top size dings. On the step top, there is two lite rings from where a drink had been set, and some spotting. One of the legs has a line where the top layer of wood had chipped off and has been repaired. Don't let the lite wear fool you, as its really a great looking desk just the way it is. Quality made, versatile, with full round finished design. Looks great from any side or angle. This isn't a desk you'll want to hide in a corner or place up against a wall. It deserves a place in the center of a office or den

Could you use a little steadying in you day?

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 20:55:00 +0000

As a practitioner of several martial arts, I can definitely appreciate someone who can admit when they're in need of some steadying from time to time. And when I read up on the AbsoluteCalm
I saw a few benefits right off the bat. And for quite a few situations, whether lack of through sleep, daily life activities, daily stress, or special circumstances.

I find myself using my practice of aikido, ken-jutsu, and iaido to keep my head level and release stress, but not everyone has the time to dedicate to such a path. For those of you in that boat, a calming, leveling supplement might not be a bad thing. Absolute Calm uses Honokiol, a natural biphenolic molecule present in the cones, bark, and leaves of Magnolia rather than harsh, mind altering chemicals to promote well being. Honokiol has a long history of use in traditional Chinese formulas that relieve stress without leaving you feeling like you've been drugged. Sounds like a great alternative, no?

Absolute Calm also has a 30-Day empty bottle money back guarantee, so your satisfaction is almost guaranteed.

-Enjoy

Interesting Chair Idea

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 20:49:00 +0000

I found the idea for this Chair by Alessandro Beda truly creative. Alessandro doesn't know if this concept is doable. He claims to be working on a prototype during the summer. It will be necessary 100 gas shock absorbers to pull it off. I hope he does.

I don't know if this concept is doable. :-)
I'll work in a prototype during the summer. It will be necessary 100 gas shock absorbers.

I think it's time for me to look at cell phones!

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 17:50:00 +0000

So, since I've been traveling quite a bit for my training in aikido and ken-jutsu I've been thinking quite a bit about purchasing a cell phone that can be connected to the business line. But, here's the problem, I'm way out of the loop when it comes to cell phones (I canceled cell phone plan five years ago because my former employer called me non-stop on my personal phone and ran up my bill without reimbursement). When I saw bestincellphones.com my interest was piqued and I had to see what they had going for themselves, and thus me! So, bestincellphones.com can help you find the best deals available from at&t, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon Wireless, and they also list by color, like pink cell phones and such.

Not only can bestincellphones.com help you find a good deal, in some cases they can help you get a little cash back after mail in rebates on phones. Many of the deals I saw onteh site actually gave two phones when used towards a family plan, and the phones looked pretty sleek. But, what do I know I haven't had a cell phone in years.

Anyhow, the site is very self explanatory, if you are looking for a cell phone head on over to see if you can find a deal suited for you and your calling needs.

-Enjoy

The Floating Office

noreply@blogger.com (M. Tuttle) — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 17:08:00 +0000

The Floating Office is the brain child of artists artists Michael Elmgreen and Ingar Dragset. I'm not too sure if this is what they were going for, but here's my impression of the exhibit. In a world where everything happens online the floating office really represents a work place without physical location, thus it's up in the ether. At least that's my take.