Controlling Home Pests In The Winter

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Controlling Home Pests In The Winter

It’s winter now and you might be thinking it’s time to relax your home’s defenses. What creatures and critters could possibly invade your home at this time of year? The answer is plenty. When the cold weather comes, many animals seek shelter and they often find it. Mice and rats burrow into your basement, spiders find tiny access holes, and insects find excellent wall space for new nests. Before we begin, we are here to remind you that it is so important to call a pest control service when you see a sign of infestation. It will only get worse! To find an expert near you, simply enter a search for “PEST CONTROL AT CHERMSIDE” (or your local area) to solve your pest problem.

Below are some of the common culprits and what to do about them:

Winged Carpenter Ants:

Ants don’t always walk along the ground in neat military rows, sometimes they fly. In a colony of Carpenter Ants there will be several that have wings. These winged ants are useful for collecting soft wood material for the nest. It’s common to find some flying ants in your home during the summer, they might have a nest outside somewhere and are looking for soft wood. However, in winter it means something else. The cold weather should have killed them so there must be a nest in your home. You will need to contact an exterminator.

Cluster Flies:

You should be familiar with cluster flies even if you haven’t heard them called that before. These are the most common species of fly, the ones that you find in your fruit bowl or on the window ledge. Cluster flies are common in the summer but in winter, it could be a problem. Cluster flies may have found a warm space in your home and built a nest that will allow them to survive the cold winter months. You need to locate the nest which you can do by watching the fly’s movements, alternatively, you can contact a pest control service to deal with it. To begin exploring your options if you are going the professional route, simply enter a search for “Miami Pest Control” (or your local area). These flies can be very difficult to get rid of so you will want a well received team to take on the task.

Mice:

Everyone loves cartoon mice but not everyone loves the real kind, especially if they’re wild field mice living in your home. During winter you might hear scratching sounds in the walls or catch sight of a small critter dashing across the floor. You may have mice. As the cold weather begins, mice retreat to warmer spaces and often burrow into people’s homes. A sheltered basement, garage, or a loft is the perfect place for them to survive the winter and breed.

A problem like mice must be tended to immediately as they will multiply and it happens quickly. Mice can cause a lot of damage to a property in a short matter of time so it is best to call in the professionals like those at robbins-pest.com or a similar business in your local area. You might also want to consider if there are deals for repeat visits from a pest control company to ensure that the problem has been fully solved or provide another treatment if it continues to persist.

Rats:

Rats are very common in the US but that wasn’t always the case. Prior to the discovery of the New World, rats didn’t exist on the continent. They were brought over in ships from Europe and Scandinavia. Fast forward to modern times and rats, wild rats at least, have become a common home invader. Like mice, rats don’t like the cold and retreat to warmer places as the winter approaches. The best places for them to live and breed through the cold months is often in your basement, loft, or walls. If you hear scratching sounds in the walls or ceiling, enter a search for “las vegas pest control” (or your local area) and contact a professional service immediately.

Spiders:

Spiders come in all different shapes and sizes, there are thousands of species in the world and around 3,400 in the US alone. It’s estimated that around one fourth of the human population is creeped out by spiders in some way. Not only that, but they are unhygienic and lay eggs. In the winter, you may have let your guard down when it comes to home invaders but you still need to look out for spiders. They retreat from your outdoor areas inside to escape the frost and can propagate quickly. If you discover you have a spider problem you can have the area professionally cleaned.

No one wants creepy crawlies and critters in their home! Use the tips above if you are dealing with an infestation.

Featured Image By: Freepik

Holiday Haul: Gemini Twin Edition

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Holiday Haul: Gemini Twin Edition

Hellooo everyone! I hope all of you enjoyed happiness and safety throughout this holiday season and it has been a crazy one, hasn’t it? In fact, it has just been a crazy ass year in general, lol. A lot of people had to get used to video chatting in 2020 but my sweet best friend, Kate (Genius author of Live In The Nautical), and I have been hip to it for a good long while. As we both live in different states, all of our hang outs for the past several years (aside from one real life meeting) have taken place on video chat.

On a normal year, I would go crazy without Kate. But, in 2020, I know that I would have gone certifiably insane! I absolutely live for when we can spend an evening gabbing away and it is so refreshing to have that time with her, especially since I have been limited to my apartment and work since March. Kate and I met through the blogosphere and became fast friends through our passions of writing, figure skating, fashion, and Harry Potter! I simply could not imagine my life and enjoying our very close June birthdays without her.

Birthdays and Christmas with Kate as a friend is quite possibly the most exciting thing ever. I thought that I was a great gift giver but DAMN, lol Kate knocked it out of the park this year with the literal BEST gift that I have ever received. Check it out:

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Kate is the queen of customized gifts and I feel spoiled rotten. I have never once opened a gift that was so perfectly tailored to yours truly. The beautiful ice skate adorned card was a delight in itself and I love that she treated me to my own mini bottle of vino because, more often than not, I always have a glass handy when we are video chatting. How can you have girl talk without it?!

Just when I thought that things couldn’t get any better, I unwrapped the painting and coffee mug with my likeness and clutched my pearls. The first thing I thought about when I saw the painting was when Kate and I ice skated together at Rockefeller Center. The second thing I thought was that I looked FIRE! Haha, both of these customized pieces capture a different part of my personality from glam skater girl to constantly needs to be caffeinated blogger. And each with the poise of a Disney Princess, no less.

I feel so incredibly thankful to have received the most amazing gifts from the most amazing friend. These presents made me feel known, understood, and so loved. Thank you, Kate. You are an angel! ❤

What is the best gift that you have ever received? How do you personalize presents? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Looking After Your Home’s Roof: 5 Tips For Homeowners

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Looking After Your Home’s Roof: 5 Tips For Homeowners

Looking after your home’s roof is crucial to protect the structure of your property and ensure that all premises are safe and sound for your family. However, looking after the roof is something that can definitely be a task! Indeed, most parts are often inaccessible or extremely difficult to examine. Nonetheless, there are some easy ways to ensure that your home’s roof is healthy and bound to withstand the test of time. Start with the ones below:

Consider a Renovation:

One of the first steps is to check whether your roof needs a renovation. This type of project is undoubtedly time-consuming and can be quite expensive. However, your home’s roof is extremely important, and it is paramount that it is in its best shape at all times. This is not a task that should be left to DIY skills so be sure to do your research for the best roofing contractor in San Marcos, TX or your local area. You will want someone well recommended as this is a big undertaking.

If you have opted for a complete renovation of your roof, your investment will last for years to come, guaranteeing you to have the best structure over your head! When renovating your roof, you also have the chance to take into consideration more modern materials and alternatives, such as the best metal roof for residential properties.

Winter Proof Your Roof:

If you have opted for a metal roof, you can be sure that it will protect your family home against the elements for years to come. However, independently of how old your roof is, it is important to winter proof it. Cleaning it, removing debris, and preventing ice dams are just some of the important tasks to cover before the winter months come around. It is also vital to ensure that the roof is healthy and stable before any rain or snow happens.  

Of course, your roof should be weather-proofed according to the climate you live in. If you live in an area prone to hurricanes, taking extra precautions is crucial. High winds and flying debris can cause significant damage, sometimes in ways that aren’t immediately visible. That’s why it’s wise to get roof damage assessment after a hurricane, even if your home appears unscathed. A professional inspection can help identify any underlying issues early, preventing more costly repairs down the line. Having a trusted expert lined up before storm season hits can make all the difference in protecting your home.

Regular Maintenance Is Key:

It would be impossible for homeowners to check what condition the roof is in at all times. Because of the limited accessibility this area offers, many homeowners tend to quickly check their roofs once a year or even less regularly. However, if you are looking to increase its lifespan, you should consider getting your roof professionally inspected and maintained once a year, at least.

To make this easier, it is usually best to simply hire a professional roofer to do it for you. With their help, you will know exactly what is going on with your roof, as well as whatever repairs might need to take place in order to keep it in good shape. Your roofer could then carry out those repairs, sometimes even on the same day as inspection. This will help with the regular maintenance of your roof, so it’s well worth it.

Make the Most Out of Your Roof Space:

Your home’s roof should not just be an extra surface to look after. The roof is a valuable space that is actively part of your home, and if you feel like it is not used at its best, then you might consider investing in alternative projects. For example, you could decide to install solar panels. This might represent an unnecessary investment at first. However, once your solar panels are up, your whole household can count on clean energy for years to come.

Check It from the Inside:

An excellent way to check the health of your roof is from the inside. Head up towards your attic and check the ceiling. If you see signs of mold, humidity, or mildew, you might consider a more extensive inspection. Humidity might have damaged the inner part of the roof. Cracks and peeling paint are also telltale signs that a thorough inspection is in order. However, if none of these signs are visible, you might consider postponing a more comprehensive check until after the winter season.

Keep the roof over your head in best shape for years to come with the tips above!

Featured Image By: Pexels

December 2020 Finishes

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December 2020 Finishes

Hi everyone and welcome to the very last beauty finishes post of 2020! I, for one, am ecstatic that this dumpster fire of a year is drawing to a close and I am sure we are all looking forward to better times ahead. With all of the stress of the pandemic, I turn to self care in the beauty and skin care department to help me relax. So, with that in mind, we have quite a few empties to discuss today including a new moisturizer by Garnier that I am obsessed with. Let’s get to it:

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Would I Use Again?

Why/Why Not?

Clean & Clear Cleanser: I absolutely loved using this Skin Brightening cleanser every morning. The citrusy scent was invigorating, it lathered well, and I definitely think it made my skin more radiant. Not only was my face glowing but my skin never felt tight or dehydrated after each use. Bursting Beads are always a fun addition and I am extremely impressed – especially since I paid less than six dollars for this cleanser. One of the best parts? It lasted me close to five months with daily use! Total steal.

B&BW Fragrance Spray: A few years ago, I went absolutely NUTS at a Bath & Body Works semi annual sale. Lol, I purchased so many fragrance sprays in Mango Mandarin and Country Apple and I am STILL working my way through them! Granted, this is easier said than done considering one bottle of perfume normally lasts me a good five months to a half a year with daily use.

Of course, I don’t mind at all, though, because the Mango Mandarin spray is nothing short of delightful. I love the punchy citrus scent and it helps add a touch of summer to a cold winter’s day. Maybe I should practice buying in moderation next time I need more… Said no one EVER! 😀

Garnier Moisturizer: The last time I needed more of my usual SkinLab moisturizers, I noticed that their price on Amazon was TWENTY DOLLARS. I would never spend that much for skin care so I had to opt for something different. And, I’m actually really glad I did because then I never would have ended up trying the Garnier SkinActive Moisture Rescue gel moisturizer.

Nothing pleases Lil Red more than a good gel moisturizer and I think this one is the best. It has the most pleasant, clean scent and absorbs super quickly. Despite it being so lightweight, my skin has never felt smoother, softer, or more moisturized. With twice daily use, one jar lasted me one month and I got it for an absolute STEAL too – seven dollars for two jars on Amazon, baby!

December was a great month for beauty finishes for me and I was happy to be done with some of the products that I’ve been working on finishing for a while. Here’s to lots more successful empties in the New Year!

Which products did you use up this month? What is your favorite moisturizer? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Lil Red’s Book Club: The Sleeping Nymph By Ilaria Tuti Edition

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Lil Red’s Book Club: The Sleeping Nymph By Ilaria Tuti Edition

Hello everyone and welcome to a new edition of Lil Red’s Book Club! Without giving any spoilers away, we are going to be discussing the sequel to Flowers Over The Inferno by Ilaria Tuti called The Sleeping Nymph. Ever since finishing Flowers Over The Inferno in August, I was eagerly awaiting to get my hands on the sequel to see what happens next to Italian police superintendent, Teresa Battaglia, and her team. Despite The Sleeping Nymph not being as good as its predecessor, I still enjoyed it well enough so let’s get to the review:

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In Flowers Over The Inferno, we learned that aging Teresa Battaglia has began suffering from the early stages of Alzheimer’s and the disease has done nothing but progress. Teresa wears a bracelet reminding her of her name, religiously writes notes in her diary so she doesn’t forget, and has a hard time recognizing people as well as coming up with the names of common objects. Somehow, she still manages to get up every day to help crack cases that are twisted, dark, and to some “unsolvable”. And, in the case of The Sleeping Nymph, Teresa is going to need all of her wits about her more so than ever before.

Our story begins with the discovery of a “missing” portrait in an art gallery painted by Alessio Andrian seventy years ago. The painting it called The Sleeping Nymph and it showcases the great beauty of a young woman – enchanting all who merely glimpse at it. Despite the portrait being so beautiful, it holds a dark secret because, upon testing the red paint that was used, we learn that it is actually blood. What’s more, the tests showed traces of cardiac tissue, meaning it came straight from the heart.

Since painting The Sleeping Nymph, Alessio Andrian never spoke a single word again. He is still alive but, clearly, will be of no help to the case so it is up to Teresa and her partner, Massimo Marini, to find out about the origins of the painting on their own. Through their diligent work, they wind up in the Resian Valley where The Sleeping Nymph originated. However, they get a lot more than they bargained for in the Valley when a human heart is found nailed to a tree, thus fast forwarding their case into the present.

Could the killer of the Nymph still be alive and has come back to tie up loose ends? Or is there foul play going on in the Valley? There is even an inkling that these murders might be tied to occult practices. Who murdered The Sleeping Nymph and who is killing now? Read the book to find out!

Now, I didn’t love The Sleeping Nymph but I also didn’t hate it, either. Despite the portrait painted in blood being an “oh my gosh” discovery, it also happened seventy years ago making the immediate sense of urgency you feel about the present day crimes in Flowers Over The Inferno nonexistent. The Sleeping Nymph kind of dragged on while the focus was in the past but promptly picked up about halfway through when they discovered the heart on the tree in modern time.

My other qualm with this book is just how wordy it is. Flowers Over The Inferno was like that too but I suppose I didn’t notice because it was one of my favorite books that I’ve read this year. Because The Sleeping Nymph didn’t immediately captivate me, the vivid and highly detailed descriptions came off as boring and I felt ready for the book to be done about fifty pages in. I have never not finished a book that I started, though, and the four hundred and forty page read felt more like a chore than something I really wanted to do.

The Teresa Battaglia novels are meant to be a trilogy and my only hope is that the third book will be better than the second. I genuinely have no idea how Teresa will be able to solve another case with the progression of her Alzheimer’s but I am very ready to find out!

Overall, I am going to rate The Sleeping Nymph with six out of ten stars. I think it paled in comparison to Flowers Over The Inferno but I still enjoyed portions of the story line as well as the grand reveal. I would still recommend reading the Teresa Battaglia novels and I can’t wait to see how the trilogy ends.

What is the last book that you read? What do you recommend for me to read next? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Merry Christmas!

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Merry Christmas!

Hello everyone and a Merry Christmas and very happy holiday season to all of you! I just wanted to stop by to send wishes of health and happiness to you and yours as well as good vibes for 2021 not being as sucky as 2020. If you are celebrating with your loved ones, please continue to be smart and safe. Although the holidays are an exciting time, the coronavirus still gives massive cause for both concern and caution.

I never thought that I would be warning people of a global pandemic in one year’s time when I was writing my Christmas post last year. But, we all have to keep rolling with the punches and looking forward to better times ahead. My heart goes out to those who will not be able to celebrate with their family and friends this year but Christmas is not just a holiday – it’s a feeling. You can keep the holiday cheer going all year round and gather with those you hold dear when it’s safer.

No matter what you do or how you celebrate, I wish all of you the happiest, safest, and merriest of days and I just know that better times are right around the corner! ❤

Happy Holidays!!!

How are you safely celebrating the holidays this year? What are you looking forward to in 2021? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Face Mask Festivities: Dr. Jart Cryo Rubber Brightening Mask Edition

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Face Mask Festivities: Dr. Jart Cryo Rubber Brightening Mask Edition

Hi! Whenever I order online with TJMaxx, I like to purchase a new face mask to try out. They’re fun, relaxing, and inexpensive. I consider ten dollars or under well worth it for a half hour or so of pampering at home! The last time I ordered with TJMaxx, literally all they had in the face mask department were Cryo Rubber masks by Dr. Jart. The packaging is, admittedly, extremely disturbing but the mask in itself was one of the best ones I’ve used as of late. Take a look at some pics and let’s discuss:

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The first step to applying this face mask was the pre-treatment as seen in pictures three and four. I loved the texture of it because it was a thick gel but it didn’t make my skin feel sticky at all. Once the pre-treatment was rubbed on, the actual mask could be applied. I wasn’t sure what the mask was going to be so I was surprised to see it was a sheet mask. I originally thought it would be a peel off style mask that dried with a rubber texture. However, those can be kind of a pain to apply and remove so I was happy that I was just dealing with a sheet mask.

Other than the results which we will get to, the best part about this mask was the fact that the sheet was divided into two pieces – one for the top half of your face and one for the bottom. This was SO much better than the one piece sheet masks (That are usually gigantic on me) because you could apply individual pieces in a way that would fit your face best. Other than some slipping and sliding in the beginning, once this mask dried a little it stayed put perfectly for the forty minute duration that it had to sit.

While the mask was on, my skin felt cool and tingly and it actually felt that way the entire evening once it was removed. My skin was so soft after taking the mask off and it still felt just as good the following day. I think it does look a little brighter too – especially around the designer bags under my eyes!

Although the packaging for the Dr. Jart Cryo Rubber Mask was super weird, you can’t judge a book by its cover because I really enjoyed it! There were a couple more of these masks with different focuses like Calming and Moisturizing and if they are still there, then I will definitely order them the next time I shop with TJMaxx. Great success!

What is your favorite kind of face mask to use? How do you pamper yourself at home? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Accessory Story: Allsaints Bracelet Edition

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Accessory Story: Allsaints Bracelet Edition

Hi!! There is nothing that Lil Red loves more than a treat from me to me and, with the stress of the pandemic, I like to treat myself to a new little something once a month or so. I had a few odds and ends that I needed to order from TJMaxx and to get myself past the free shipping threshold, I ordered a very cute and unique bracelet by Allsaints. It took a while for my order to ship but it was well worth the wait because I am in love! Check it out:

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^^^ Peep that original seventy-eight dollar price tag! I got this bracelet for twenty-five. Score!!

When I first saw this burnished gold bracelet, it literally made me clutch my pearls. From the mini cuff fit to the super punk rock nail and chain detailing, I just thought this bracelet was amazing. I love classic pieces with an extra bit of edge to them and my new Allsaints cuff is a perfect example of that. It also came with a really nice matte black pouch to house the bracelet in but I don’t think I’ll be using it very often because I plan on wearing it all the time!

Nothing makes me happier than new accessories or clothing from an expensive brand for a reasonable price, which is why I love shopping with TJMaxx so much. When I saw the original price tag for my bracelet, you could have knocked me over with a feather – which made this purchase even more exciting! My first order of business will definitely be breaking out this bracelet on Christmas day. I can’t wait! 🙂

How do you like to treat yourself? What is your favorite brand or store to shop with? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Holiday Haul: BFF Edition

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Holiday Haul: BFF Edition

Hello! For as long as I can remember, my best friend of over twelve years, Lea, and I have had a Christmas gift exchange. Wine is poured, presents are unwrapped, and we spend the whole evening gabbing away about anything and everything. It is one of my favorite holiday traditions and I was so excited to see her during our hang out because, with the pandemic, we are lucky if we see each other once a month. Hanging out was a gift in itself but I am so in love with the thoughtful presents from my bestie. Check it out:

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For birthdays and Christmas, Lea and I always gift each other with a bottle of wine. We have a long standing joke of saying “I wonder what this could be” because there is no way to wrap up wine without it being totally obvious about what’s underneath the paper! Not only do I love a Pink Moscato but I absolutely adore the black and white striped safety seal on the bottle that Lea picked out. She told me right away that she knew that I would like that and, of course, she was right on the money!

Not only did I receive vino but I was also gifted with Bath & Body Works foaming hand soap – my favorite! Nothing beats the holiday scents from B&BW and presents from there are also a huge staple in mine and Lea’s gift giving arsenal because we both know that we will use their products happily. An adorable new glass to enjoy my wine with and some homemade hand soaps wrapped up my haul and I am so thankful for all of the sweet and incredibly useful gifts from my best friend.

Lea and I both revel in the gift giving process of the holidays and I love being able to share in the season with her. I felt so happy after seeing her because she is and always has been a breath of fresh air in my life. She brings me so much joy and I have absolutely NO idea what I would do without her. Here’s to a million more Christmas hang outs together! ❤

How do you and your BFF celebrate the holidays? Do you have any “staples” in your gift giving arsenal? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Holiday Haul: Surprise Gift Edition

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Holiday Haul: Surprise Gift Edition

Hello!! For those of you who don’t know, my “big girl” job is as an Independent Provider for people with special needs. I am proud to say that I have worked throughout the entirety of this pandemic and I am even prouder of my county’s board of Developmental Disabilities for taking such good care of all of their employees. From care packages filled with PPE as well as wonderful donations of games and crafting supplies to help keep our clients entertained, we have not been without during the pandemic and it is SO, so, so appreciated.

As if all of the supplies and encouraging emails weren’t enough, my county’s DD board provided us providers with a special gift for the holidays. I was so surprised by this generosity and I am in love with my prezzies picked out just for us. Check it out:

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For my surprise gift, I received a beautiful travel mug filled with caramel and chocolate covered popcorn. I also got the most comfortable pair of socks I have ever owned with “Making A Difference” on one foot and “It’s What I Do!” on the other. How awesome is that?! This gift absolutely touched me and not only did I feel appreciated for the work that I do but it put me in the best mood all day. I was so eager for Johnny to come home from work to show off my spoils and the discovery that my new socks are perfect for sliding around on our hard wood floors!

I love my job so much and would never expect anything in return and I think that’s why these presents mean so much to me. I can’t wait to fill up my travel mug with hot coffee in the morning because I already know it will put a smile on my face. How can the sweet messages printed on the front and back not?!

What makes you feel appreciated? How has your job changed throughout the pandemic? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah