Millions of window blinds are being recalled by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) after reports of strangulation deaths in children. The blinds do not have inner-cord-stop devices to prevent the accessible inner cords from being pulled out. The recall includes about 15,400 horizontal blinds, 16,500 vertical blinds, and 800 cellular shades manufactured by Vertical Land Inc. of Panama City Beach, Fla.
The horizontal blinds pose a risk of strangulation if the inner cord is pulled out, a child can become entangled in the loop and become strangled. Vertical blinds create a risk of strangulation if a child’s neck becomes entangled …read more

When I was a kid, we lived in Huntington Beach, California. Later, when I was in high school, I spent a short time in Encinitas, where I could see the coast from school (when I’d cut class and hang out on the lawn – not a very motivated student at that time). I love the beach and these days, it’s Pismo that I get to visit, this time with my sister and her family.  In my home, I’ve got bowls of shells in almost every room.
 
This serveware from William-Sonoma is perfect for beach lovers like me. It includes a platter, …read more