apartment therapy changing the world, one room at a time

Does anybody have a smallish compost tumbler that they like? I am looking into buying one for my (little) DC yard; I don't want to just have a compost pile because I'm sure I'll be too lazy to turn it with a pitchfork, and also because I don't want to stink up our outdoor area (and our neighbors') or risk attracting rats or other critters. I have some reviews of the available options online but can't identify a clear best option. Any suggestions would be very helpful!

I had an actual compost heap before I moved into my apartment, and you do have to stay on top of it -- you shouldn't attract vermin if the heap is all plant matter and thoroughly washed eggshells (calcium), but they can get buggy. Anyway, a tumbler would probably be much easier than trying to shift it all with a pitchfork. I can't recommend a tumbler but you might try calling an organization that focuses on education/public service -- I've found both River Farm -- 703.768.5700 and the US Botanic Garden http://www.usbg.gov/contact-us/index.cfm helpful in the past. If you can get yourself out to the Botanic Garden's growing greenhouses, where they propagate plants for display in the conservatory on the Hill, they love to chat. It's in the District right near the Maryland side of the Wilson Bridge.

Jenny, try Lee Valley.com under composting.

How can I keep my LACK shelves snug against the wall? I've got a bunch - including one above my bed, and I've noticed that none of them actually are flush with the wall. (I don't have anything heavy on them either.) Any suggestions?

Pigletliver: you really gotta make sure that they are screwed into studs (at least one MINIMUM). otherwise the weight of the shelf itself will pull it down. At the very least you gotta use drywall screws (that have a plastic casing that expands as your screw into it). Our shelves are all hung on 1 stud, 4-5 drywall screws. They hold liquor bottles, books, and look just fine.

(full liquor bottles - although they don't stay that way ;) )

has anyone seen a nice stainless steel toaster oven that is under 10" deep??

anyone? :)

This has nothing to do with design but I just wanted to post that I am selling a 3 day all inclusive pass to all of DisneyWorld. It expires at the end of July so if you are heading down there or know someone that is this is a bargain at $175. An adult pass to each part of DisneyWorld is $60 so add it up and you'll see how much you'll save with the one I have.

Oh man, wouldn't you know it - I have a client appt. on 5th Ave./85th St. and there's a power outage!

Any news for anyone in that 'hood?

for = from

anne, i hear it's all fixed now.....but that's secondhand hearing! good luck :)

Anne,

I live up there too and I hear the power is back on.

Thanks for the update! Guess I'll head up there. I'm taking the bus!