A pair of 8 feet (2.4m) long pieces of good-quality 2 x 4 dimensional lumber will work well for this job. Pick through the pile at the lumber yard to avoid pieces that are warped, bowed, or cracked. Check that lumber is straight and "true" by holding one end up to your eyes and looking down the length of the wood. The amount you'll need depends on the width of your ladder-stairs and the number of treads required. But, in most cases, 2-3 pieces of 1 x 3 lumber that are 8 feet (2.4m) long should suffice. You can use 2 x 4 lumber instead if you prefer to have "beefier" treads. When in doubt, buy an extra piece or two of lumber. It's better to have leftover wood at the end of the job than to run out in the middle or it! A good table saw or circular saw will make quick work of 2 x 4 and 1 x 3 lumber, but make sure you follow all safety precautions and know how to use the saw properly. A jigsaw will also work for this application, but again make safety your priority. If you have a steady hand and a sharp blade, a hand saw is fine for this job as well. Always wear eye protection when handling saws. Wear ear protection when using power saws. Make sure to keep your hands clear of the blade, and remove or tie back any loose clothing, jewelry, or hair. If you are wary of your cutting skills, you may be able to have your lumber cut to fit at the home improvement store. Mark the angle on the wide side at one end of each piece of 2 x 4 lumber. Make the cut carefully with your chosen saw. Use the same process for marking and cutting the 2 x 4 pieces, just with a greater angle. Remember that a 30 degree stair-ladder will protrude further out into the room. Use a medium-grit (80-120 grit) sandpaper on all cuts you make during this project. Smoothing out any jagged edges will reduce your risk of cutting yourself, and will improve the fit and appearance of the ladder-staircase. Wipe away any dust with a damp rag or a tack cloth. It's wise to wear eye protection and a dust mask while sanding. Assuming that you're working with a basic wooden bunk set, the ladder-stairs will usually attach to the inner sides of 2 vertical posts that either form a corner of the bed or support the upper bunk's protective rail. Measure the distance between these posts, then subtract 3 inches (7.6cm) to account for the side rails. An ideal adjusted width is between 16 and 18 inches (41 and 46cm). You subtract 3 inches instead of 4 because 2 x 4 lumber is actually only 1.5 inches (3.8cm) thick by 3.5 inches (8.9cm) wide. Use the adjusted measurement between the bed's support posts for the width of your treads. Then mark and cut 8 treads (7 to use and 1 spare) to this length with your saw. A typical bunk bed (e.g., 56 inches (140cm) high to the top bunk's deck) will need 7 treads 1 on the floor and 6 spaced equally up the side rails. There should be about 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30cm) of vertical rise between treads, so cut a few more or a few less than 8 if your bunk set is unusually tall or short.

Summary: Use 2 x 4 dimensional lumber for the side rails. Grab 1 x 3 dimensional lumber for the stair treads (ladder rungs). Use a hand saw or power saw to cut the wood. Create a 15 degree floor angle for a more upright ladder-staircase. Use a 30 degree angle for a more stair-like structure. Smooth these and all subsequent saw cuts with sandpaper. Measure the width for your stair treads. Cut the stair treads to length from the 1 x 3 lumber.

You'll naturally have memories to share and a bit more to say if you knew the person who passed away. Consider writing a draft on a separate piece of paper so you can get your thoughts down before you compose the note on your sympathy card. Think about what you knew about the deceased, and try to come up with a natural-sounding, heartfelt note. Here are a few examples: Dear Steve, We were incredibly sorry to hear that Joan passed away. She was a kind, caring friend who always made time for other people, and we loved her. Her students will remember her as a devoted teacher and wonderful role model. If you need help running errands, keeping the house in order, or anything at all, please don't hesitate to call us. We love you and are thinking of you. With deepest sympathy, Marcia and Luke Dear Mary Ann and Juan, it's impossible to express how sorry we are that your beautiful daughter has passed away after her struggle. What a brave, joyful child she was. We will miss her every day. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your two sons. If there is anything we can do, please call us. With love, Hayden and Dwayne While you won't be able to share memories of the person, you can speak to the person's reputation or simply express how sorry you are for your friend or family member's loss. Here are a few examples: Dear Molly, I am so sorry to hear that your father passed away. Though I never got the chance to meet him, I know how much everyone at St. Paul's admired his volunteer work. How wonderful that you were able to spend so much time with him in his final days. Please call me if you need anything or just want to talk. I'm thinking of you. With sympathy, Jim Dear Victor, I was very sad to hear the news about your brother Hector. I know how close the two of you were. If there's anything I can do to help, please don't hesitate to call. Warmest condolences, Alicia The same sincere sentiments should be expressed when you're writing a sympathy card to someone whose pet has died. Try to remember a few details about the pet to include. Here are a few examples: Dear Lucia, I'm very sorry that Shadow has passed away. I remember when you first adopted him 13 years ago. What a wonderful companion he was. Our walks won't be the same without him trotting by your side. With love and hugs, Jules Bobby, I heard the news about your sweet Birdie. She was such a special cat. It's hard to believe she won't be romping around the garden next spring like she always loved to do when the weather started warming up. Thinking of you, Jordan
Summary: Write an intimate message if you knew the deceased well. Express sincere condolences if you never met the deceased. Write a heartfelt message to acknowledge the death of a pet.