If you’re looking for an alternative to the usual heavy drapes or vertical blinds for your apartment at Reserve at Garden Oaks, these unique and affordable ideas just may be the answer.

Stick-On Window Coverings
If you’re looking for a truly creative window treatment alterative that still blocks out glaring sunlight, try frosted window stickers. This fun and modern DIY project shows you how to create your own choice of pattern, and best of all, it comes right off when it’s time to move out.

Coffee Sack Curtains
If your style is more rustic and antique-inspired, create your own affordable curtains using recycled coffee sacks. Because the sacks are supposed to have a bit of a rough edge, there’s absolutely no sewing required for this simple project.

Flower Chain Curtains
For fans of all things bohemian, this simple DIY project is the perfect choice. Simply string faux flowers to clear fishing thread, and then tie a row of 10 or so across a slender curtain rod. This one is ideal for anyone looking to create a bit of privacy without blocking out too much sunlight.

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr Henry Söderlund

We've all been there: you get a phone call from an old friend saying that he or she is passing through town, and you're pressed to throw together some type of meal with just a few hours to spare. Before you start to panic (and maybe even suggest going out for pizza), use these smart and time-savvy tips for putting together a dinner party in just one hour.

1. Clean up only the common areas. You won't be able to clean your whole house, but you can make the common areas look a bit tidier. Put away any stray items in the living room, dining room, or other hangout area, and give the bathroom a good wipe-down. As for the other rooms? Well, that's what closed doors are for!
2. Think of a main course. Check out your current groceries to plan the focal point of the meal. Have a few frozen chicken breasts? Maybe some extra dried pasta? Keep things simple with these dinnertime basics — anything too elaborate will only add more stress.
3. Use the quickest cooking method. Simple preparation is key: go for a classic spaghetti and marinara sauce or some grilled chicken with olive oil, salt and pepper.
4. Create a smorgasbord of sides. When it comes to last-minute sides, go for a variety. Toss together a kitchen sink salad with whatever you have on hand, create a cheese plate of cheeses, crackers and spreads, or even set out chips and dips in attractive bowls.
5. Add some ambiance. Light a few candles, fill a vase with branches to create a makeshift centerpiece and turn on some soft music to improve the mood. Voila! That's all it takes to throw together a dinner party on the fly.

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr Janitors

Don't let its name fool you: Battlefield Houston is actually a place for fun to be had. Proudly billing itself as the largest indoor laser tag center in the country, players have sensors on their heads (no vests) and are tasked with completing specific tactical missions—with the ultimate goal of crushing the opponent, of course!

Unlike your typical course, players encounter ramps, stairs, and other challenges that make the hour-long play both thrilling and exhilarating. The center offers a number of party packages, welcomes walk-ins for open play, and it has a mobile armory, as well. The really adventurous can choose to attend a "lock-in" and spend the night and following morning engaging in a number of planned mini games.

Reservations are recommended at Battlefield Houston, and they can be made online.

Battlefield Houston
11755 West Little York Road
Houston, TX 77041
(713) 409-1990
www.battlefieldhouston.com
www.yelp.com/biz/battlefield-houston-houston

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/Paul L Dineen