WE SPOTTED IT
For the bird who has every amenity but an automatic bug catcher: Dutch design studio Oooms has introduced the Solar Birdhouse. A roof panel collects sunshine to charge a small battery inside. Bird-size snacks wing their way toward the lighted perch once darkness falls. The house is 7.1 by 3.5 by 3.5 inches and is made of Meranti wood. Just over $90 apiece; details and purchase information at www.oooms.nl.
DO IT NOw
If you're going to start some plants from seed, you'd better get them started soon. Many seeds need to be planted about 6 to 8 weeks before they can be transplanted outdoors. Check on the back of the seed packet, then check the calendar. Our average last frost date is mid-May.
HOT TICKET
You can tell we're getting close to spring by the number of gardening workshops that are popping up. Consider taking a single-topic class, such as composting or rain gardening. For one-stop shopping, attend one of the garden expos, resource fairs or horticulture days that offer expert advice on a range of subjects. See the calendar on page E5 for details.
WEB WATCH
Craft maven Martha Stewart is also an animal lover (her menagerie numbers five cats, two dogs, three donkeys, five horses, 25 red canaries and more than 100 chickens). As homage to pet owners (and in a multimillion-dollar deal with sponsor Purina), Stewart has launched a site dedicated to the care, grooming, nutrition and adoration of animals, as well as pet-related crafts and contests. And, apparently, every dog has its day, er, say: The site's "Daily Wag" blog purports to be written by Stewart's French Bulldogs, Francesca and Sharkey. (Canine trivia: Francesca's bio says she was born in Pinewood, Minn.) See their insights at dailywag.marthastewart.com.
IN THE MAGS
The April edition of Better Homes and Gardens features six pages on the Stillwater home of Kelly Welsh and sons Ryan and Erik. The story features pictures of her new-but-classic farm home, showing clapboard siding, pine planked and whitewashed ceilings and walls and a neutral palette.
NEXT WEEK
Even if you don't have the money to remodel, you can do a few things to spruce up your space for spring.
KIM YEAGER, CONNIE NELSON
