Even the thought of organizing the garage is enough to bring some men to their knees (and of course it doesn’t help when it is not your idea to do so, but that’s another thing altogether); but the sooner you get it done the better off you will be and the more peace you will likely have as well.

One of the most important things to remember is that when you organize your garage you will need to designate a place for everything while still ensuring that all of your items are easily accessible. If possible start by taking everything out of the garage, just pile it onto the driveway or grass and then begin sorting everything into different categories such as lawn maintenance items, toys, electric tools, sporting equipment, etc. Of course, be sure to throw away all items that are broken beyond repair (yes that includes those that you think you may be able to fix…someday) and items that you no longer need.

Start by installing some type of a hanging rack for those lawn tools which helps to keep them within easy reach while keeping them out of the way and providing you with more space. You can either make one yourself of purchase one pre-made and install it or have someone install it for you if you are not sure of your own capabilities (hey, you do not have to tell anyone that you didn’t do it yourself).

It is also a good idea to have enough room to rotate seasonal items; for example when it is close to winter make sure to have shovels, snow blowers, sleds, etc. easy to get to and likewise during the summer be sure to have any outdoor furniture accessories, toys or pool accessories where you can get to them quickly.

You can also gain some additional storage space by installing cabinets or shelves which again you can do yourself or hire someone to do for you. Free standing cabinets are also a good idea for some sporting equipment, toys and the materials that you need for things like washing your car.

It may seem like an intimidating job but once it is done you will wonder why you didn’t do it sooner and you may just get a special dinner out of the deal for being such a great “handyman”.

All basement construction and remodeling should start with the floor; newer homes that have basements are normally constructed from a concrete block or poured foundation that is on footings and then a concrete floor. These homes usually have a good drainage system that helps keep water away from the structure itself which minimizes the chance of moisture problems. Since an older home may have been built on a dirt floor basement foundation a basement renovation in an older house may have to include constructing a new concrete floor. This can be a major job and unless you have the experience it is a good idea to hire a reliable contractor to do this for you.

As an alternative to constructing a cement slab for your basement remodel job is to install a subfloor made of wood over the existing concrete after uneven areas have been leveled. However, it is not a good idea to use this method if you think that moisture could be a possibility as the pockets that are between the concrete and the wood floor may become inaccessible areas for mildew and mold to form, causing possible odor and health problems once the basement construction is completed. If water were to seep into your basement the whole wood floor would then need to be taken out in order for the area to dry effectively.

You do have other options when it comes to flooring for your basement renovation; if the concrete is just uneven or cracked you can use a floor leveling compound and then cover it with carpet or some kind of laminate. If you already know that the area is prone to moisture then consider gluing carpet directly to floor during the basement remodel; this way if there is water damage it can be cleaned and the carpet can be left where it is to dry which minimizes the cost of water damage restoration if necessary.

With spring and summer fast approaching it is time to start thinking about your yard and gardening tools replacing or repairing as necessary. Backyard tools can only work so well without having any type of maintenance; if your hose leaks you will waste water and money, etc. Here are a few tips on what you can do to ensure that your yard tools are in good working order.

Start with the lawnmower as it is one of the major yard tools and change the filter if you have not done so since last year; if it is a paper filter then replace it, otherwise you can take it out and clean it with soapy warm water. After disconnecting the spark plug turn it over on its side and clean out the old debris and grass, using a screwdriver or something similar for difficult clumps. You can also use the water hose to help spray it clean; using a disinfecting cleaner if your yard had any kind of a fungus.

Another one of the backyard tools to check is the gardening water hose, check it carefully for cracks and holes. If you only have a minor crack or hole you can choose to repair it using something like plumbing tape but check it often to be sure that it holds and doesn’t leak. If you use more than one hose then be sure to check the washers where the two connect together; you can pick up replacement washers at any hardware or home store.

Weed-eaters are also yard tools that come in very handy; the amount of area that you need to edge and the number of plants or trees that you need to get around has a lot to do with the type of weed-eater that you should get. Your local home store can offer valuable advice on which model to get as well as the pros and cons of gas or electric ones. Just be sure that the base guard and the handle are on securely before starting so that they do not fly off or slip while operating it.

Your supply of gardening backyard tools should also include some kind of hedge clippers; to ensure that the blades are sharp use heavy gauge grit sandpaper or take them to a shop to have them sharpened in order to keep your shrub lines clean.

Starting with number 10 – Cold Gin by Kiss, the ultimate ode to the male libido and gin; basically saying gin is the answer to all key relationship problems, or at least the ones that happen between the sheets.

Number 9 – Sublime’s “40 oz. to Freedom”; said to be one of the most ideal songs if you need a short hike away from problems and you can insert your drink of choice in front of the 40 oz and customize the song to suit your tastes.

At Number 8 we have “Gin & Juice” by Snoop Dogg; leading us to believe that with juice and gin anything is possible, that it earns you respect and you can get away with pretty much anything you want.

Number 7 – Semisonic’s “Closing Time” – this one is also on the list by Rolling Stone magazine as one of the most all time annoying songs. The song talks about it being last call, the harsh lights coming on and the last effort of finding someone for the night.

Coming in at number 6 is by The Doors “Alabama Song” or Whisky Bar; interestingly this song first appeared in a German opera in 1930 and when the keyboardist, Ray Manzrek heard it The Doors began playing it at the Whisky A Go Go.

Number 5 – “Friends in Low Places” by Garth Brooks; it has proven to be one of the most popular of the country efforts in recorded history. He arrives drunk at his ex’s party and then toasts her and dismisses their former relationship and then it’s back to the bar.

Number 4 – Jimmy Buffet’s “Margaritaville” – his most popular single where he uses his own word of margaritaville to describe a rather alcohol induced, but low-key, state of mind.

Number 3 – “One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer” by George Thorogood; this song takes you through a mans odyssey of not being able to pay his rent and ends up with him in a bar. After hearing the title song so many times it is a given that you will soon be sending in your own order.

Number 2 – The Beastie Boys “Brass Monkey”; its pulsing beat and witty rhymes stands up against any of the rap contemporaries. The songs title is a drink consisting of vodka, orange juice and run, a little of this goes a long way.

And finally, at Number 1 the best drinking song of all time is “Have a Drink on Me” by AC/DC; although never substantiated many believe this was dedicated to the death of Bon Scott and his hard living, hard drinking ways. After mentioning at least 5 specific alcohols the remainder of the song exudes a happy message of partying hard and living carefree in the moment.

There you have it, the top ten, albeit informal, poll of drinking songs; if there are some you haven’t heard go listen to them or come up with your own list.