Author Archives: lifewithlilred

Unknown's avatar

About lifewithlilred

Just your average gal blogging an average blog!
Feb17

Jesus Christ Superstar Date Night

Posted on by
Standard
Jesus Christ Superstar Date Night

Hello! This past Saturday, Johnny and I had a wonderful date night to see Jesus Christ Superstar at Playhouse Square. This has been our first big outing since the pandemic began and it was even better than I could have dreamed! Also, huge shout out to my dad for making this possible with his yearly Christmas gift of season tickets to Playhouse Square for the family. Tomorrow, we will take a look at my OOTD so be sure to keep it posted for that!

Our date day began at Pepper’s Italian Restaurant in Lakewood before the show. We had a to die for dinner of gnocchi with Alfredo sauce, Margarita pizza, focaccia bread, salad, and Prosecco. It was absolutely delicious and my only regret is that it isn’t closer so that we could eat there all of the time. 😀

image_50456577(1)image_50392321(2)image_50380545(2)image_50426113(1)image_50421249image_50449409image_50435073(2)

After an amazing meal that I am still dreaming about, we had some time to kill before it was time to go to the theater to take our seats. We decided to have an after dinner drink at a bar down the street from Pepper’s called the Funhouse. Johnny has been there before but I haven’t and it was the coolest place ever!! It had the theme of an old fashioned carnival with tons of dark decor mixed with the bright colors of a fair. The Funhouse is definitely our kind of bar!

I was already sold on the bar based on the decor alone but their unique drink menu didn’t hurt, either. I just had to try one of their alcohol slushies and chose blue raspberry as my flavor. It was So. Yummy. and if we didn’t have a play to catch, I think I could have had one or two more. 🙂

image_50411009(1)

After a quick drink, it was time to head to Playhouse Square for the main event – seeing Jesus Christ Superstar. Everyone has a laugh when I say that it is my favorite musical because I am an atheist. I can’t help it, though, and have been enamored with it ever since having to watch it every Easter at Catholic grade school. The rock opera music gets me every time and I love that it shows a human depiction of the story of Christ’s crucifixion.

A few years ago, I made Johnny watch the classic movie adaptation of the musical and while he liked it, he wasn’t one hundred percent sold on it. I wasn’t sure what his reaction was going to be to the show so as soon as it began and he whispered to me “this is amazing” my heart basically exploded because he was seeing it how I do.

We were lucky enough to see the show despite it being canceled last year due to the pandemic and were treated to an extra special viewing because of its fiftieth anniversary celebration. Because of this, there was a small orchestra playing in the wings of the theater along with the band playing onstage with wailing electric guitar, organ, keyboards, drums, and saxophone.

The stage was set with an industrial vibe of open scaffolding and a huge upside down cross going directly down the stage. This was also reflected in the costumes for the characters who were dressed in baggy clothing to maximize all of their beautiful movements. And the actors? They were sublime.

The chorus was fabulous and the individual roles were just flawless. I daresay that the actor playing Judas might have out shined Jesus but who really stole the show was King Herod. His flashy rendition of “King Herod’s Song” was a major highlight of the entire show and Johnny and I spent so much time on the ride home going gaga over it.

Jesus Christ Superstar was performed with no intermission so it was seamless from start to finish. The loud music, glam rock style vocals, and all of the little tricks that they worked into the show made for one of the best adaptations that I have ever seen. It was so incredibly creative and really is a production that makes you think.

I knew that I was going to enjoy the show but it made it even better that Johnny loved it too. Our hour long car ride home until we went to bed was filled with conversation about the story, what we liked, and reliving it in its entirety. I couldn’t have asked for anything more and it was seriously one of the best evenings of my life! ❤

image_50430977image_50423553(1)image_50454273(2)image_50426113(2)

What is your favorite musical? Do you have a favorite song from Jesus Christ Superstar? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb16

Landing Your Dream Job

Posted on by
Standard
Landing Your Dream Job

Unfortunately, many people never land their dream job, not because they are not capable of doing so but because they don’t think they can, so they don’t even try. If you want to be one of the ones who does end up doing a job you love for the rest of your life, here are some tips to help you achieve it:

Get the right qualifications:

Yes, there are tales of people who have been able to get their dream job with not even a high school diploma to help them along the way and, incidentally, if you’ve long since lost your high school diploma, Valid Grad can help you out. If you want to land your dream job, it is a good idea to work out what qualifications those in charge are looking for, and do your best to attain them too. Whether this is a certification, degree, or training courses any extra know how helps.

Gain experience:

If you want to land your dream job, you are going to have to work for it and that means getting relevant experience that you can put on your resume. For example, if you want to be a zookeeper, you could start by volunteering in a local animal shelter. This will be valuable experience and show employers that you have a caring nature and a love of animals, which will help to seal the deal. That’s just one example, of course, and what you need to do to prove yourself may be quite different, but you get the idea.

Become a presence online:

In 2022, one thing you can do to really set yourself apart from the competition and stand out in the best possible way is to establish a strong online presence in your chosen sector. If you want to be a film director, you could start by producing video shorts for YouTube or if you want to be a high end personal shopper, you could start your own fashion blog. People will see your stuff, make connections, and you will find that more opportunities will come your way.

Network:

On that note, it is fair to say that networking can do a lot of the hard work of landing your dream job. If you attend trade events, talks, and shows based on your dream sector or where people who work in your dream sector are likely to hang out, you can mingle with all the right people. When it comes to an opportunity, sometimes it really is about who you know so always put your best face forward.

Getting a dream job takes time and lots of hard work but it will be so worth it once you’re punching the clock at a job you love!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Feb16

Loving: My Nebulizing Diffuser

Posted on by
Standard
Loving: My Nebulizing Diffuser

Hello! A couple of weeks ago, I began using the Aurora Nebulizing Diffuser by Organic Aromas and I have been absolutely loving it. Other than a stint in my teens when I enjoyed making bath and body care products, I never was too interested in essential oils. While I understand that there can be benefits, I always thought that people were over exaggerating. However, this product made me eat my words and my mornings no longer feel complete without turning my diffuser on. Let’s discuss:

Okay, before we really get into it, I seriously can’t mention essential oils without talking about Impractical Jokers. Johnny and I are huge fans of the show and there was one episode when the guys had to perform their antics while getting a massage. Q was told that he had to pronounce “oil” as “Earl” and, of course, Johnny and I now refer to my essential oils as essential Earls lol.

ANYWHO, I started my journey with my Organic Aromas diffuser by using their Signature Blend. I did enjoy this scent and it was great for relaxing at home after work. Johnny, on the other hand, wasn’t a fan and it actually gave him a stomachache so I had to use it when he wasn’t home! I will be the first to admit that it was pretty pungent but it definitely did its job because I felt so soothed when I was using it.

The Peppermint oil was a game changer, though. After getting out of the shower, I would put it in my diffuser before starting my writing routine and I noticed a big difference in how I felt on day one. The fresh peppermint scent felt like an additional caffeine boost for those groggy mornings and I do feel like it improved both my focus and alertness when working in the morning.

Not only did I feel extra awake, but my airways felt way less congested too. This Ohio winter has been a flip flop between moderate temperatures, rain, single digit temps, and snow storms and I have felt permanently clogged up since November. My body just can’t jive between the constantly changing temps and it has been really annoying, to say the least. The first day using the peppermint oil was the first day I have felt “normal” since the fall and I can’t get enough of it!

We all know that I am a fanatic when it comes to my beauty hoard and I think essential oils are going to start making a huge addition to my stock pile. I am so eager to try all of the different scents and plan on purchasing some citrus and eucalyptus oil next! 😀

What are your favorite essential oils? Have you noticed any differences from using them? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb15

Travel Essentials To Secure Before Your Vacation

Posted on by
Standard
Travel Essentials To Secure Before Your Vacation

When it comes to a big vacation, every detail is important. You want to relax while away, not stress about items forgotten or if you failed to turn the kitchen light off! Every travel detail will start with research before you leave for your trip. Your findings will reveal plenty of travel essentials, but some of them are optional. However, these items will be valuable and irreplaceable parts of your travel bag, making it necessary to focus on getting them:

Flight Details and Travel Requirements:

Every person will start their travel adventures with one task: getting to the destination. However, most national governments won’t let you inside their countries that easily. There will be plenty of travel requirements such as visas, passports, personal identification cards, and legal documents. For example, if you have an itinerary for your Jiufen day tour, you can print it or have it ready on your mobile phone.

You must identify all the legal travel requirements you need months before your target date if you plan to visit a country for vacation. Fortunately, the internet provides travel guides to boost tourism in many locations. Identifying those travel essentials allows you to secure them ahead of your target date. Without them, traveling will not be possible. Try to place them in your carry-on bag for easy access whenever you have to present them in international customs.

Once your documents are ready to go, the next order of business is arriving to your form of transportation, whether that be one of these cruises departing adelaide or a flight taking off from JFK, in a timely manner. Keep a close eye on your departure time online or in an app in case anything changes.

Lodging: 

Of course, you can’t plan a vacation without arranging lodging! Are you staying with friends or family at your destination? Do you plan on staying at hotels? This must be squared away before you depart so you have a place to stay upon your arrival. Make your reservations well ahead of time and confirm them a week or so before you leave. Should something fall through, you will have time to fix it. If you are considering a guided tour like West Africa Tours, you’re in luck. Lodging arrangements are set in stone so all you have to do is hop on your plane and relax before your big adventure.

Cash & Then Some:

There are two ways to approach your travel budget. The first option involves dedicating funds for travel, even if you don’t have a plan yet. This financial strategy will allow you to identify a closer travel date when you start planning. Even if it’s just fifty bucks per paycheck, adding to a travel fund for a year can give you an opportunity to visit Alcudia, go to a resort, or travel to different states for a nice vacation.

Your second option will require you to adjust your monthly budget for travel expenses, which means reducing other essentials like shopping, groceries, and food allocations. Your local bank account might carry huge fees when you withdraw funds in international locations. You wouldn’t want that unnecessary expense and don’t forget to notify your credit card company that you’re traveling.

Bear in mind that depending on where you travel, there may be a change in currency. This can be a bit of a hassle but there are ways around it, including currency cards. These are most handy to have on vacation and when you need holiday money use your currency card fee-free without worrying about extra charges.

Clothing and Toiletries:

Most people travel to another country to experience different things. Other cultures and tourist sites are on top of the list, but the weather might also be a factor in your decision. People living in tropical countries might want to experience winter, summer, spring, and autumn. It can also happen vice versa for people used to living in temperate climates. As a result, the clothing style might have to adjust. Travelers must never underestimate extreme cold or heat so do be sure to pack accordingly.

Toiletries also play a significant role in keeping the weather from becoming intolerable. Sunscreen, moisturizer, and lotion prevent harsh environments from ruining your skin. Don’t forget that travel sizes are required for boarding a plane. If these mini sizes won’t sustain you for your trip, hit up a store at your location to buy the products you need – this will also save you space in your travel bag.

Nothing ruins an amazing vacation faster than a bad sunburn so the importance of sunscreen cannot be understated. This is especially true if you are exploring luxury private yacht charter options in Antalya. A good rule of thumb if you are enjoying a day on the water and in the sun is to reapply your sunscreen hourly. Even if the sky is cloudy while you are boating, sunscreen is still going to be necessary.

There are countless more travel essentials, but it depends on every traveler’s needs or preferences. If you have allergies or medical issues, carrying your medicine with you will be necessary. Electronic devices can help you navigate through unfamiliar lands, as long as you are okay with purchasing roaming data. The keys are to plan, budget, and plan some more for your big trip!

Feb15

Home Renovations: 3 Things You’ll Need To Consider

Posted on by
Standard
Home Renovations: 3 Things You’ll Need To Consider

When you’re a homeowner, it’s tempting to do up parts of your property every once in a while. These home renovations can not only make your home look better, but also function better. You shouldn’t dive straight in, however. Home renovations can be more complicated than you’d think whether big or small. You’ll need to consider multiple factors before starting your project. While there could be quite a few things to focus on, some are more important than others:

The Available Space:

Before you start any home renovations, you’ll need to ensure that you have enough space for it. It’s easy to have grand ideas for a project but if you don’t have the space, then it isn’t going to work. Basing your designs on the space you have available is essential.

While you wouldn’t need to worry too much with extensions, you’ll need to factor this in for any other home renovation project. It’ll save you from needing to adapt or change part way through the project. For instance, it is essential to consider your available space if you want to add a minibar. A home bar setup wouldn’t necessarily take up a lot of space, yet it is best to plan it for comfort and functionality. You may choose a small bar cart or a larger freestanding bar depending on your available space. Planning the bar’s layout is key to ensuring that it doesn’t feel cramped or cluttered, as this can detract from the overall enjoyment of the space.

Sometimes finding additional space isn’t a matter of rearranging rooms or adding extensions. It might be a matter of looking up and seeing how you can make your vertical space functional. This is especially true if your home features high ceilings. An amazing way to create a unique vertical space is with a popular new trend of netting. With a company like Feelnets, Custom Nets Designer you can make a hammock hideout for the kids or install a projector for the ultimate movie night in. It’s quirky, cool, and will serve as a fantastic focal point for your home.

DIY Or Professional?

Residential construction is more complicated than many people assume. While there are some tasks that you can do yourself, it’s often worth hiring a professional.

There are more than a few reasons to consider this. Some of the more notable include:

  • Work will be done to a high standard.
  • It’ll typically be more affordable than you’d think.
  • Protecting yourself from possible injury.

Although hiring a professional for your home renovations is an extra cost, you can rest assured that the work should last a lifetime. It’ll be more than worth the investment. This is especially true if you are considering a kitchen or bathroom remodel as there are a lot of specialty skills needed to complete the project. Most renovation companies like Evoke (or a similar business in your local area) offer free consultations so it is no harm done to have a pro stop by and discuss your ideas.

And, of course, there is the design aspect of your renovation to consider too. Your brand new rooms will need some style and this can also be done from a DIY or professional approach. If you want to dress the rooms to your aesthetic, go for it and have fun! However, working with an interior designer can give you ideas and items that you might have never thought of before. If you are interested in how interior design services can transform your home, simply enter a search for “interior design portfolio Melbourne” (or your local area) to browse the work of nearby professionals. Your perfectly styled new rooms will thank you!

Time Of Year:

Many people don’t realize that the time of the year can have a significant impact on home renovations. While that might not be the case for indoor renovations, it certainly will be for any exterior ones. If you’re planning a deck or patio, for example, you’ll need to plan it for when there’s appropriate weather. Having this renovated or installed during the winter wouldn’t be recommended.

You should also think about when the more popular times to get work done around your area is. These can often be the more expensive times to have any renovations done. Avoiding these periods and choosing a less busy time could end up saving you money.

When you’re considering any home renovations, have a budget in mind, what you can achieve with it, and a time frame. Good planning will save you a lot of stress when it comes to your project!

Featured Image By: Ottawagraphics from Pixabay

Feb15

6 Home Maintenance Tasks Better Left To Professionals

Posted on by
Standard
6 Home Maintenance Tasks Better Left To Professionals

Some home maintenance tasks are better left to the professionals. This is especially true if you don’t have the time or knowledge to do them correctly. Today, we will discuss six home maintenance tasks that are best handled by a professional. Remember that this is not an exhaustive list – many other tasks could be included here. But these are some of the most common ones that people try to do themselves and regret later:

Roof repairs:

If you have a leaky roof, it should be handled by a professional. Trying to fix the problem yourself could end up causing more damage – and costing you even more money in the long run. An experienced roofer will identify the source of the leak and fix it quickly and efficiently. In addition, if you are considering replacing your roof, it is best to hire a professional contractor. They will be able to give you expert advice on the best type of roof for your home, as well as help with the installation process. Roof repairs are not something that amateurs should attempt and can put your own safety at risk.

Plumbing repairs:

Plumbing repairs can be tricky and if they are not done correctly, you could end up with even more problems. A professional plumbing company like Cathedral Plumbing will have the knowledge and experience to fix your plumbing issues. They will also help you prevent future plumbing problems by installing proper drainage systems and fixing leaks. If you are noticing an issue with your plumbing, it is much better to call in a professional now before the problem worsens. It can happen far more quickly than you think. A plumbing emergency repair can be costly and highly inconvenient to the household so don’t wait to make an appointment.

As a home owner, it is a good idea to make a list of repair specialists that you can call should you need them. This is especially important if an emergency plumber is needed ASAP. Seek reviews from friends and family if you can. Or, simply enter a search for “Plumber Boynton Beach” (or your local area) to find recommendations online.

Electrical work:

Electrical work can be dangerous if it is not done properly. A professional electrician will know how to install or repair electrical wiring in your home safely. They will also advise you on the best way to use electricity in your home and help you avoid potential electrical hazards. If you are considering doing any electrical work yourself, it is essential to remember that this is a job for professionals. Electrical work should never be attempted by individuals not certified to do so.

Painting/wallpaper removal:

Painting and wallpaper removal can be a daunting task, especially if you do it for the first time. A professional painter or wallpaper remover will have the experience and knowledge to get the job done. They will also be able to advise you on the best paint or wallpaper to use for your home so that everything looks perfect the first time around. If you are not interested in DIYing this task, simply enter a search for “painter in Hacienda Heights, CA” (or your local area). You will surely be able to find an expert to take the project off your hands!

HVAC maintenance:

HVAC systems are complicated and dangerous if they are not appropriately maintained. An experienced HVAC technician like those from Aquidneck Services will have the experience and knowledge to get your system running smoothly while also helping you avoid potential hazards. Have your HVAC system checked by a professional on an annual basis, as this will help ensure that everything is running safely. These systems can last a long time when all of the heating and cooling parts are working well so don’t skip on your annual check ups.

Pest Control:

If you are experiencing a pest problem, it is best to call a professional exterminator rather than solve the problem yourself. They will be able to give you humane and eco friendly solutions to your problems to keep you and your family safe. Time is of the essence with pest issues so you will want a professional to take a look right away.

Even though these jobs may seem easy on paper, they can turn into major headaches if done incorrectly. Experienced contractors know what they’re doing for home maintenance tasks, so leave it to them!

Featured Image By: Curtis Adams from Pexels

Feb15

New Black & Ballet Slipper Pink Nails

Posted on by
Standard
New Black & Ballet Slipper Pink Nails

Howdy! My monthly fills at Elysian Nails have truly become a highlight for me because I love hanging out with my nail tech. Catching up and girl talking with her is SO much fun and I, honestly, never even look at my nails anymore when she’s doing them because she always makes them perfect. For Valentine’s Day, I almost considered doing red and pink nails but decided against it last minute and went with this, instead:

image_67178241(1)image_67141889

As you all know, I am not one for holiday themed nails and on the drive to the salon, I made the choice to go with black and pink for some sugar and spice. It has been forever since I had black nails and, I have to admit, that my husband’s nails that are always painted black made me jealous! While I do love experimenting with different color combinations, nothing beats the old standby and I think they turned out so cute.

At the polish wall, I was inspired by my new Marc Fisher platforms for the shade of pink that I wanted but I had such a hard time finding black polish. Every shade that I thought was black just ended up being deep purple! Lol, when my tech came over, she showed me where the black polish was hiding and it was in the one spot that I completely overlooked. Whoops!

Because my nail tech is so gifted, I never think that my nails look that bad before my fill but I am amazed at the huge difference when she is done. In fact, I don’t even tell her what I need anymore because she already knows what it is lol. With a little nod to V-Day and a bigger nod to my emo roots, I am obsessed with the end result and seriously can’t stop looking at them. It’s going to take a lot of effort to not have them painted black next time around!

What color of nail polish do you have on? How often do you get your nails done? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb14

Habits For A Happier & Healthier Life

Posted on by
Standard
Habits For A Happier & Healthier Life

How you choose to live your life is ultimately up to you. While some things are out of your control, there is also a lot that is in your control such as what you do or don’t do each day. Your habits play an important role in your overall health and happiness. You must take notice of your behaviors and make sure that you’re taking good care of yourself if you want to feel your best.

These are some habits to add to your routine for a happy and healthier life that you should review and consider implementing:

Exercise & Be Active:

Exercise is good for your body but also your mind and stress levels. If you want to live a happier and healthier existence, then add exercise and being active to your list of habits. You’ll soon notice that you feel less overwhelmed and anxious and that it boosts your mood and self esteem. Do what you have time for and are comfortable with but also try to challenge yourself physically at times. Some ways to begin are to join a gym, go for walks outside, or sign up for a yoga class.

Make Time for Hobbies & Relaxation:

All work and no play will leave you feeling exhausted and you may miss out on the fun parts of life. There are so many ways to relax and unwind including taking your dog for a hike, learning photography, or getting on the computer and participating in some online betting. After all, there is nothing better than having some extra spending cash. In fact, if you are feeling particularly lucky, you can also go the old-school route and play a few hands at an online casino during your downtime if a game isn’t on or the season is over. To help you find the best online casino, check out a testing and review site like Slotswise to get an expert opinion of which is the best for you. Remind yourself that you work hard and deserve this time to rest and regroup after a long day or week at your job. You’ll not only feel refreshed and better for doing so but may also learn a few new skills along the way.

Eat Nutritious Foods:

Think about how you want to feel when you’re done eating and choose foods and snacks that give you energy and reduce anxiety. Foods not only impact your physical health but also your mental well being. Be proactive about choosing to eat more complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and fruits and vegetables and keep the highly processed and deep fried foods to a minimum.

Smile More:

Your brain releases dopamine when you smile and this will make you feel happy. Crack a smile when you’re feeling down and notice how it instantly picks you up and makes you feel good. You may also want to give yourself a smile in the mirror in the morning before diving into the day ahead. It can help set the right tone for tackling your to do list. If you are having a down day, that’s okay and it happens to everyone. Rather than ruminate, take a short break and do something fun to get you smiling again. Perhaps you will read a chapter in a book or play a few arcade or slots games on https://ck44jili.com/. Things often feel a lot brighter after pausing and getting yourself into a better mindset.

Get Organized:

There are many ways to get organized such as at work, with your finances, and your house. Declutter and get rid of what you no longer need or what no longer serves you. Make space in your life for what truly matters and helps you succeed and live a rewarding life. It’s especially important to do if you feel like the clutter is getting out of control and beginning to negatively impact your mood and how you live.

Organizing can also mean creating a schedule to stick to if you have a difficult time with time management. Penciling in breaks for meals and rest, allowing time for entertainment after work like playing on 솔카지노, and wind down time before bed if you have difficulty sleeping can all help to create a full and productive schedule.

Meditate & Breathe Deeply:

When you meditate, you can bring down your stress levels and blood pressure, find more emotional balance, and reduce chronic pain and anxiety. Your memory and concentration will improve and you may also feel more creative. It can help you gain a new perspective on stressful situations or problems in your life and allow you to successfully navigate a challenging circumstance. In addition to meditating regularly, you should also consider doing some deep breathing exercises throughout the day. It’s an excellent way to calm your mind and body in the moment.

Get Outside:

Explore and get into nature and take notice of how much better you feel and happier you are overall. It’s a chance to disconnect from technology and your responsibilities and simply be. You’ll not only have an opportunity to slow racing thoughts and clear your mind but spending time in green spaces can also lower blood pressure.

Spend Time with Loved Ones & Friends:

Think about who you miss or haven’t seen in a while and reach out and set up a time to get together or chat on the phone. Although it may be hard to meet new friends as an adult, there are ways to do so. You must be willing to put yourself out there and make an effort in this area of your life. Consider taking a class, volunteering your time, or finding social groups to join in your area. It’s not about how many friends you have but that the relationships and bonds you do have are rewarding and meaningful.

Get More Sleep:

If you’re discovering that you are tired or need naps during the day, then your body might be telling you that you need more rest. Track your sleep and pay attention to how many hours you get so you can make changes if you’re not getting enough. Try to wake up and go to bed around the same time each day to get into a routine and limit naps you do take to twenty minutes.

Visit the Doctor:

Visit your doctor and dentist routinely to stay in good health. You must take good care of yourself and address any health issues or ailments right away. Come prepared to ask questions and follow any treatment plans that are suggested for you. You should see your providers even when you’re not sick for routine checkups and peace of mind.

Help Others:

Try adding volunteering and compassion to your routine. There are likely many opportunities to do so right in your neighborhood and community. You’ll not only benefit from volunteering but you might also make some new friends or meet new people in the process. It might also inspire you to want to practice gratitude for what you do have in your life, which can also boost your happiness and health.

Begin sprinkling these habits into your routine and you’ll not only be happier and healthier but may find you reach your goals at a quicker rate and can build the life you always wanted. While it’s important to focus and work hard at improving yourself, you should also take breaks and rest when you need it to stay well.

Featured Image By: Pexels

Feb14

How To Create A More Social Home

Posted on by
Standard
How To Create A More Social Home

Your home is primarily a space for you and your family to relax and unwind. But it can also be more than that. It can be a space that your friends and extended family enjoy, too. Is there anything better than inviting your loved ones around for a few hours of fun? Not in our book. Of course, while you might want this to be the case, it’s not as if it will always just happen. You normally have to work to make your home social ready.

Fortunately, this isn’t overly difficult! In this post, we’ll run through some useful tips that will make your house the place to be for all of your guests:

Guest Rooms:

One of the issues surrounding inviting people over is that sometimes they come from a long way away. And once they’re over, they’ll be thinking about how they’re going to get home. You can get around this issue by creating a guest room in your house. This will allow your friends and family to spend the night whenever they want. Everyone relaxes and enjoys themselves much more if they’re not worrying about how they’re going to get back.

Conversation Spaces:

If you’re going to invite friends and family around, then you’ll want to create a space where conversation can flow. After all, that’s why you’ll be together! The issue is that many people’s homes aren’t all that conducive to conversation. For example, if your living room furniture is all pointing towards a television, then you’ll have inadvertently created a space that doesn’t lend itself to communication, rather entertainment. Instead, look at arranging your furniture so that they face each other. You’ll find that the conversation flows much more naturally.

Social Kitchens:

There will be times when you and your guests are in your living room. But if you’ve invited more than a couple of people over, then you’ll want to look elsewhere. In this day and age, the kitchen is the most popular social space in the house, and especially so if it’s an open plan kitchen. If you want to change your kitchen so that it’s more social ready, then take a look at the top rated remodelers near you. Open plan kitchens are perfect for those small casual gatherings, where people can stand and mingle.

In the Yard:

You’ll likely use your open plan kitchen for gatherings during the winter months. But in the summertime, it’s best to look at your yard. If you have some outdoor furniture, a BBQ, and a speaker, then you’ll have everything you need to spend many hours under the shining sun. You can go the extra mile by adding a fire pit (perfect for those slightly chilly evenings) and putting some outdoor children’s games, so that the whole family can get together to have a good time at your property!

Turn your home into a social hub with the tips above so that you are always in good company!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Feb14

Shout Out!!

Posted on by
Standard
Shout Out!!

Hello! Ohio has been hit with a few insane snow storms these past couple of weeks that pretty much left everybody in my apartment community snowed in. During one particularly bad storm, we got over a foot of snow and my work was canceled for Thursday and Friday. The Little Red Love Machine did not move from its parking spot until Monday and, of course through my own fault, I had a very tough go of trying to get my car unstuck from the snow.

If you can recall from my last snow day, Johnny and I don’t own a shovel and spent a solid hour clearing out our cars with a baking sheet. Sadly, we didn’t learn our lesson and still never purchased one so come Monday morning, I was trying to clear my car with my windshield wiper brush. I will be the first to admit that it was absolutely shameful lol.

About ten minutes passed in my effort and I was making surprisingly good progress. Then, a kindly stranger in the complex over brought me his shovel and all was going even better. THEN, kindly maintenance workers took up the fight to get me unstuck and they arrived not a moment too soon because I was getting tired!

The maintenance men made quick work of shoveling the remainder of snow around my car but we hit a major wall when we discovered that my car was sitting on a block of ice that was at least an inch thick. Try as we may, we still couldn’t back my car out of its spot. The workers refused for that to be the end, though, and left the scene and returned with an ice chipper to try again.

My knights in a green pick up truck spent an entire hour clearing snow and ice and attempting to move my car until, finally, it was free. You guys have no idea how thankful I was! Before leaving for work, I just had to do something for them and offered to run into my apartment and make them some coffee which they happily accepted. It still didn’t feel like enough but it was the least that I could do. I also made sure to sing their praises both on the phone and in email to our leasing office so their amazing work could be commended.

Because of their super hero level efforts, I was only fifteen minutes late for work but I felt like I was on cloud nine all day. From the encouraging remarks from fellow neighbors to the borrowed shovel and the best maintenance workers ever, I experienced the kindness of strangers at full throttle.

Every time I have told this story since last week, I got the warm fuzzies as if it had just happened that morning. And, I definitely have them again now! This just goes to show how much your words and actions can turn someone’s day around and it inspires me to continue to always choose kindness every day. ❤

How do you like to make someone’s day? What happened when you experienced the kindness of strangers? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah