Whatever Happened to the Quarter Machines?

The Need for More Bookshelves

My oldest daughter has caught some kind of fever. She's not really sick, per se, she just has recently gotten infatuated with the quarter machines. I am talking about those little vending machines that are on your way out of a grocery store or restaurant. While those things have been around for decades and decades, the prices have gone up quite a bit. You are lucky if you find one priced at 25 cents that isn't full of candy. I have seen some that take up to four quarters to vend you whatever is inside.

She can't seem to pass by one without trying her luck. From stickers and temporary tattoos to slime and those sticky hand slappers, she will put her coins in and turn that handle to get some random things. The problem is that the stuff she gets will sometimes get left lying around the house. I used to be able to easily keep her from being able to mess with those machines. I was the gatekeeper of the quarters. Sadly, though, she has been babysitting and earns her own money. I can think of way worse things to spend money on but I can also think of better ways. 

YouTube and the Growing Desire

She has recently started watching videos on youtube where people spend lots of money trying to complete some collection that is inside the machines. Her favorite channel is hosted by a married couple who live n Japan. Gachapon is what it is called over there. The couple who make these videos will even play them for their viewers. At first, I thought it was a little strange but then I realized it's just highly interactive and that's the key to success on that video platform. I am just glad she doesn't want to start her own channel, for now...

In all honesty, I don't mind the fact that my kid is staying young at heart. It is kinda fun to watch her get excited that she got the "rare" one from the machine. She wanted to display her collection in her room and I got her a couple of bookshelves so she had a place to put them. The bottom line is that I am happy to let her stay a kid for a bit longer in a time where kids grow up so fast. 

Bookshelves for Sale in Abilene, TX

If you need room to place some things from your own collecting, Pierce Furniture Gallery is a great place to find all shapes and sizes of shelves. Click here to check out all they have to offer when it comes to bookshelves and cabinets. 

A Couch to Stretch Out Your Legs

Do You Need a New Couch?

When it comes to making a furniture purchase, it can be a little hard to swallow that pill. And by pill, I actually mean that bill that comes when you leave the furniture store after making a purchase. Of course, when you buy a couch or another big furniture purchase, you hope it lasts a long time. Depending on different factors, the items in your home may last longer or less than you hope. From pets to kids, they can put a lot of stress on a couch in your living room. It seems to me that since having kids, between the jumping, spilling, and just overall extra usage, a couch doesn't last as long as before. 

I made the mistake of thinking that a three-year-old can handle a leather couch. Now, I know that I won't ever have leather in the living room until all the rugrats are out of the house. I kid, I kid, I love my kids... no, really, I do! Although, I am about to make a new rule that anyone under the age of 15 has to use a sippy cup again. Embarrassment can be a powerful motivator and maybe that will help cut down on spills.

Pets' Effects on a Couch

If you have pets in your house, those claws can do a number on the furniture you buy for your home. I have a couple of cats that come in and out of the house. I am not sure what is so appealing about a couch to a cat. Not just for sleeping, but for clawing, as well. I tried everything to get this one cat to stop clawing up my couch, but finally, I just had to drape a cloth over the side so it would claw it. Still, over time, it managed to ruin the sofa and I had to buy a new one.

I don't have any dogs that stay inside, but I have friends who do and it seems it's a constant battle to keep the dogs off the seats in their living rooms. I had one friend who claimed his dogs were trained o stay off them. I believed him until one day we went into his house after going shopping and when I sat down on the couch, it was warm like someone had been sitting there. I told him and he wouldn't entertain the idea that they disobeyed when he was gone. To make a long story short, I convinced him to set up his game camera and, sure enough, almost as soon as he left, the camera took pictures of both animals making their homes on the couch. Aside from the smell they can leave behind, the claws of any animal can do a number to your furniture over time. 

Couches for Sale in Abilene Texas

No matter if it's you, your kids, or your pets who have worn out your sofa or love seat, if you need to replace an item in your home, Pierce Furniture Gallery in Abilene can help. They have high-quality furniture for sale that won't break the bank. These low prices come in handy especially if you have to make an unexpected or premature replacement purchase. On top of the already discounted prices, they offer financing options to make your shopping that much easier. Check them out online by clicking this link here. 

Are you Ready to Watch Fireworks?

4ht of July Festivities

My family loves to celebrate the 4th of July. Of all the traditional things that people like to do that day, setting off fireworks is my favorite part. In the past few years, however, we've seen some dry spells this time of year in the Big Country. Although, anyone living in this area knows how much rain we've gotten in the past few weeks. As such, I have purchased enough fireworks to make up for the years we weren't able to set any off due to burn bans in effect. Just because it's not super dry this year, doesn't mean we don't have to worry about catching anything on fire. Here are some of the rules I follow when lighting any kind of pyrotechnics. 

Flat Surfaces - Whether its a fountain or a mortar shell, you don't want what you are setting off to fall over on its side. While there are some pretty hilarious videos where an item falls over after it's lit, I doubt many of us want to experience this first hand. To help keep my fireworks from toppling over, I either dig out a flat area or use a flat, nonflammable piece of material for them to sit on. 

Don't Hold Them - I know, I know... roman candles aren't very fun to shoot off if you can't hold them. When I was younger, we always held them. That all changed when my uncle lit one and, after the first shot, it exploded in his hand. The fun and festivities quickly turned into a trip to the hospital. That being said, having worked in a hospital on the 4th of July in the past, it is astounding how many people hurt themselves by misusing fireworks.

Water or Extinguisher Handy - We usually keep a couple of five-gallon buckets handy. One of the buckets is only half full of water and is used to soak any spent fireworks. Better safe than sorry if you light a dud and leave it on the ground. I have had a surprise or two happen when, 15 minutes later, a supposed dud ends up going off unexpectedly. the other bucket is for emergency measures in case of a grassfire.  We usually keep a couple of brooms around so we can soak them and beat out any small flames. If you have a fire extinguisher, that may work even better. Just remember that fires can get out of hand quickly so don't hesitate to call the fire department if a fire does break out.

Watch out for Trees - If you are doing more than popping firecracker, you will want to be aware of any trees near your area. Also, be aware of any houses or other structures nearby. One stray launch might be the beginning of a lot of property damage if you aren't paying attention.

Obey the Law - This rule may be the most important one. I understand that I am lucky and I have access to a farm outside the city limits. Some people may not have a place where it's legal to shoot them off. Chances are, whoever made the rules knows best, so don't shoot off fireworks in a place where there are ordinances and law prohibiting this. You may end up with a hefty fine, or even worse, you may hurt someone or damage their home. If you are unsure about your local area's rules concerning fireworks, you may want to talk to someone who knows in the city hall.

Abilene Furniture Store

Pierce Furniture Store in Abilene, TX wants to wish you a happy and safe 4th of July this year. Just remember, if you are looking for furniture for sale in Abilene, then come by 1383 South Danville to see what we can do for you. If you would like to see our extensive selection from the comfort of your own home, click here to visit our website.

Office Furniture in Your Home

In-Home Office 

Many people nowadays use a part of their home like an office space. In-home offices are not only essential for some people because they provide a space for them to do work, but they also offer a tax break at the end of the year. If you conduct a certain number of hours of work at home and you have an actual office, then you may fall within the guidelines to receive the tax break. Many people work from home now. Some people sell diet pills, makeup, body wraps, candles, and hair products just to name a few, and are very successful at doing so. This process means that they conduct a lot of their workday from the comforts of their own home. They are usually sitting behind a computer doing this. Some people are also fortunate enough to have jobs that they can do from home while working for a large corporation or company. Not everyone conducts all their business from home though. Some people such as lawyers, marketing agencies, and engineers, just to name a few, spend a lot of time conducting business in an office or outside of the home, but have a lot of things to do on their own computer when they do finally get home. Teachers fall into this category as well. Regardless of what grade level you are teaching, a lot of your work is done from home. When teaching at the college level if you are a part-time adjunct then you do not have an office or a computer of your own, therefore, you end up spending more time working while you are at home then when you are actually on campus. For people like this, it is essential to have a computer and an area that can accommodate all your needs.

Office Furniture

If you have a computer at home, you probably have a computer desk and computer chair. If you spend a lot of time working on the computer from home, it is essential to make sure that you have a desk that accommodates all your needs. You need a computer desk large enough to not only fit your computer, printer, and computer screen, but also a desk large enough to house files and folders, or speakers, or just provide enough room to be able to have a notepad for taking notes. Not all computer desks are the same just like not all computer chairs are the same. The chair is just as important as the desk especially if you spend a lot of time in it. If you have back problems, it is essential to choose a computer chair that is comfortable and offers the type of support you need for sitting for long periods of time.

Office Furniture for Sale in Abilene, Texas

If you are looking for quality office furniture items like computer desks, computer chairs, and bookshelves then come check out at Pierce Furniture Gallery in Abilene, TX. We have a wide selection of office furniture to meet almost any type of personal need. Come check us out today.

Blue Light and the Bedroom Furniture

Do You Watch TV in Your Bedroom?

The Blue Light emitted from screens of various electronic devices like TVs, smartphones, and tablets have a few benefits. First off, blue light is environmentally friendly compared to other luminescent sources. Second off, it helps stimulate your mind by making you more concentrated and attentive and it also helps reaction times. However, there is a downside to it when mixed with nighttime behaviors. For instance, all the benefits that you get from it make you feel more stimulated and awake. So, when it's time to sleep, your brain might be working a little harder. Have you ever gone to sleep and your mind is racing? If so, Were you cruising facebook or reading something on your tablet before you closed your eyes? If the answer is yes, then the cause of your problems might stem from getting too much blue light right before sleep.

Pretty much any light will hinder your body's ability to produce melatonin while you sleep. Anything from the streetlight outside to the night light you use if you have to get up in the middle of the night can have an adverse effect on your sleeping pattern. Melatonin is the hormone that your body produces to help you sleep. It also helps the body's antioxidant defenses and regulates blood pressure. Since the ack of sleep can lead to high blood pressure, chronic fatigue, and decreased brain function, it may be a good idea to try to keep away from any electronic devices for a while before bedtime. In fact, some experts believe that the bedroom should only be used for sleeping and not much else so your brain only associates that room with sleep. 

Bedroom Sets for Sale in Abilene

If you live in or around the Abilene area and your sleep is suffering, you may need a new bed or mattress. Even if you are doing everything right when you try to sleep, if you don't find what you are sleeping on to be comfortable, your rest will suffer. Matching bedroom sets may give that special feeling to your bedroom that you've been looking for and when you are happy, everything is better. Click here to view Pierce Furniture Gallery's entire selection of bedroom furniture!

How's the Recliner Situation?

Do You Need a New Recliner for Your Living Room?

When it comes to that secure and comfortable feeling, a recliner is one of the best pieces of furniture other than a bed to give it to you. Most of us are creatures of habit to a certain degree and that's why we have our favorite places to sit in the living room. Even if you don't lay claim to a certain spot in your home, I would venture to bet that if someone sits where you usually do, you feel different. You may even wait for an opportunity to take back the spot. While we may just think about it and not speak about it, I think almost everyone gets a little territorial about their "spot" to a certain degree. I know I do. My kids know that if I am home and it's time for my favorite tv program, they will be asked to move if I come in the living room to sit down. 

Favorite Spots and my Dad

Growing up, there were six of us in one three bedroom house. My mom and dad were in the master bedroom, my brother and I shared a room, and my two sisters were in the other room. If we were all sitting down in the living room to watch a show, a couple of us kids knew we were going to be sitting on the floor and we needed to bring something soft. We had hardwood floors everywhere but the bedrooms. Usually, we younger ones got to be the ones to sit on the floor. What I would have given to have my own spot to sit back then.  Mom and the two older kids sat on the couch and dad had his old recliner. 

Fast forward to the late '90s and dad had gotten a new recliner after some coercion from my mom. The thing about it is, dad still has that same chair that he got right after I graduated. So it is that I have decided to get my dad a new place to sit for Father's Day. He may or may not appreciate the gift since he cares a lot about frugality. However, I am sure that as long as I find a good deal on a recliner, he will be happy. 

Recliners for Sale in Abilene, TX

Pierce Furniture Gallery in Abilene is a great place to buy what you need for your living room if you live in the Big Country area. With financing options and low prices, it is gonna be hard not to find a good deal on a recliner for my dad. If you think it might be a good idea to get your dad something like a recliner, then check out their entire selection by clicking here to visit their website. 

Outdoor Furniture for Your Backyard

Do You Need Some Poolside Furniture?

Whether you have an above-ground or an in-ground pool, it is always nice to have some places to sit close to the pool. No matter if you are just watching the kids play or if you are soaking up some sun, whatever you are sitting on should be comfortable for you. However, with all the outdoor elements like sunlight, wind, rain, and heat that your furniture has to withstand, your outdoor furniture has to be made of some durable materials.

When I was younger, we only had one option when it came to patio furniture and that was metal. Anyone who ever decided to sit on a metal chair that had been sitting out in the sun understands how painful it can be if your bare skin touches the seat. Some of my friends had plastic chairs, but over time, they became sun worn and brittle. Over time, it became apparent to me that outdoor furniture that was functional, durable, and comfortable would, most likely come with a hefty price tag. If you are going to invest in some patio furniture, here are some things to consider before buying. 

Weather

This is probably the main thing you need to take into consideration when buying a set of outdoor furniture. How hot does it get? How windy is it? Does it rain a lot? These questions will help you to determine what types of material your furniture is made from. When it comes to the frame of your furniture, there are a lot of options for synthetic materials that withstand the heat and sun. If your furniture choice includes items that are upholstered and you have a lot of precipitation, you will want mold resistant fabrics. After you determine what type of weather your items will endure, you will be ready to think about other things. 

Placement

Just like in your home, the amount of space you have has a lot to do with what you will want to buy. Make sure you have taken measurements and have an idea of the flow of traffic where you will place the furniture. You don't want to make a significant purchase only to realize it's too big when you get everything situated. If you will be placing the items in the yard, you may want to avoid anything made of soft wood like pine. The moisture in the ground can cause it to rot. 

Storage

You will not be outside year round and it is best for your furniture to be indoors, especially if they are made of wicker. Sadly, just covering them up might not be enough to protect them during colder times. Make sure you have a place to put them during this time. You may even consider items that would be used in the home during the winter and outdoors in more suitable weather. 

Outdoor Furniture for Sale in Abilene, TX

Pierce Furniture Gallery in Abilene is a great place to find outdoor furniture that is comfortable, durable, and affordable. They have financing options available so that you can have some flexibility with your purchase and a friendly sales staff to help you pick the right items for your home. If you would like to take a look at all they have to offer, click here!