Have you ever wondered how those professional window washers move so fast with squeegee, and windows turn out perfect? Well, there really are some tricks to it that are simple to learn, and once you do, dare I say it, you may even enjoy washing windows? It is possible!

The first trick is to invest in a good squeegee. They aren't expensive and they are worth every cent! Those $1.99 ones just will not do. A professional squeegee has a very soft, rubber blade with no imperfections in it. You can also get extra rubber blades and simply replace that when it wears out. There are probably many sources to get one, but a source I like is The Clean Team. http://www.TheCleanTeam.com a basic, professional squeegee from them runs $9.95.

Secondly, do your windows on a cool, or cloudy day. If you HAVE to do it in sun, do it in morning. What you want to avoid here is heat. Heat works against you.

1; Freshen up your rooms with scented candles. As well as providing fragrant aromas, candles also add a magical ambience to rooms.

2; Cut a 5cm square from a small sponge. Using a tester paint pot, sponge a row of squares round centre of your room. Above this, sponge a second row, to make a check pattern. A third row can be added if desired, and different colours used for a more dramatic effect. MUCH cheaper than wallpaper border.

3; Cover plain cushions with fabric remnants of either brightly coloured fabric, fake fur, or elegant chenille or velvet.

4; Give shelves a pretty look using gingham fabric made into a runner, edged with lace.

5; Buy four greetings cards designed by same artist. They could be romantic, abstract, modern etc. Frame them in cheap clip frames, and display together.